You feel an adult meltdown approaching, either your own or your mates. A quick trip to the Center isn’t feasible. How to deal? Try some laughter. Seriously. Laughter therapy is gaining credence as a solution to life’s daily stresses. It’s a great emotional release with a positive physical outcome. The brain cannot decipher between a forced hearty chuckle and a sincere fit of giggles. Next time you’re in a tense situation, or just going through your day on autopilot: stop, breathe, and laugh. It certainly can’t hurt. And, it’s one contagion that feels good to spread. Sources: YellowBrix, Hartford Courant, “Laughter Therapy Growing in Popularity as Way to Fight Stress.” Image credit: www.flickr.com/photos/nicasaurusrex

Holidays are upon us. Often, our already hectic lives become more frayed when shopping, hosting, and attending social functions – all with a cheerful face—are added. Time and energy run out as quickly as the days left in the calendar year. The advice from health experts: Keep exercising …

What began as a quest for a healthier lifestyle led member Scott Carpenter to three National Swimming Championships and the World Masters Games. He won five medals at the latter, one of them gold. Rehabilitating his shoulders, quitting his cigarette habit, and resuming coaching happened along the way …

People are typically motivated to incorporate fitness into their lives for similar reasons. Establishing and maintaining optimum health, weight, and nutrition rank among the top factors. However, what makes people take fitness to the career level? What drives them to turn a passion into a livelihood? Here, staff share their stories …

Feeling uninspired? Stressed by the upcoming holidays, where overcrowded stores and over-budgeted gifts loom large? Maybe you’re even depressed. It’s that time of year when short days and changing seasons often trigger feelings of sadness. Lift low spirits with a workout that improves your body and mood …