‘An experiment in ritual humiliation’: would a month of rejection therapy make me fearless?

In theory, approaching strangers with bizarre requests, destined to be refused, makes you a better person. But can soul-crushing embarrassment really strengthen your character?

Children living near green spaces ‘have stronger bones’

Bone strength is set in childhood so better park access could prevent fractures in older people, study finds

The Guardian view on switching off: in an always-on culture, we need time to think

Editorial: Midwinter is for hibernation, and a chance to make different kinds of connections

The big idea: is being ‘good enough’ better than perfection?

Before making another new year resolution it’s worth asking if change is what you need

‘Afterwards I would feel blissful’: how exercise convinced a psychotherapist to become a personal trainer

Therapists and gyms are working both brain and body as the full benefits of fitness are increasingly recognised

Don’t overdo alcohol – or arguments: nine ways to stay healthy and happy this Christmas

Between family feuds, open flames and warmed-up leftovers, the yuletide period can be perilous. Here’s how to keep yourself in one piece

The big idea: should we go to more parties?

Talking to strangers can be intimidating, but the social whirl has science on its side

‘A pile of dirt makes me drool’: why some people crave and eat inedible things

From chalk to rubbers and clay, there are a variety of reasons why those with pica syndrome yearn to eat non-foodstuffs. But is this dangerous?

My youth has all but faded. But my three-quarter-life crisis is filled with fascinating revelations and boundless joys

As someone fortunate to be on the cusp of a seventh decade, it’s not often I sense the icy spectre of mortality. But posterity, familial and cultural, really matters now

Punch a pillow, hug your pet, write to your MP: 22 ways to deal with your anger

From simmering frustration at minor annoyances to boiling rage at the state of the world, many of us are angry at the moment. Experts offer tips and techniques on how to manage it

The sauna secret: why Finland is the happiest country in the world

Steamy, spiritual and stress-busting, there are more than 3m saunas in Finland. Not only are they skin tingling, they help people explore what it is to be human

‘Good morning!’: how two words could transform your life

Scared of talking to strangers? Think again. It could vastly increase your sense of satisfaction

From camping to yoga to dining, these leaders connect marginalized communities

Four Black founders of healing communities in LA have a common goal: ‘so all of us can have access’

The truth about secrets: why it pays to keep your positive news private

We have always been told that keeping things to yourself is bad for you. But the opposite may be true when it comes to good news

‘Any embarrassment is in your head!’: How hearing aids boost your health and happiness

There is still a stigma around hearing tests and hearing loss – even though excellent help is now at hand. It could just change your life