The Study: A library for the curious soul.
Some great ideas become lifelong companions. While Field Notes is where I reflect on what life is teaching me, The Study is where I gather the specific tools shaping that journey.
Think of this space as a quiet, personal library. It is a room where I keep the collection of books, research, and ideas that change how I see the world.
Nothing here is required reading. Think of this as browsing my personal bookshelf. You are welcome to take any of these ideas and add them to your own collection. But unlike a regular library, you don't ever have to return a thing. All I hope you leave with is a deep exhale when an idea truly connects with your mind.
Curiosity does not follow a single path. You may find something entirely different that helps you more, and I truly hope you do.
Ideas Worth Returning To
These are the specific topics and resources that gave me strength when the ground shifted beneath me. They are the tools that continue to keep me grounded, sharp, and moving forward today.
Here, you will find a growing collection of works exploring:
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Joy and emotional well-being
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Community and true belonging
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Public health and daily living
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Travel as a way to gain perspective
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Reflection and spiritual growth
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Creativity, music, and lifelong learning
The Architecture of Joy
Building Resilience through the Science of Positivity
"We do not wait for joy to find us; we build a life that has room for it to grow." - Janine Payne
Inspired by the "broaden-and-build" work of Barbara Fredrickson, this space is dedicated to the intentional practice of life-giving emotions. We believe that joy, love, and gratitude are more than fleeting feelings—they are the vital tools that expand our perspective and build the psychological strength we need for the second half of life. Here, you’ll find the books, breathing techniques, and reflections that help transform the science of well-being into a soulful, everyday rhythm.
Portals to Engagement
Tangible tools for vitality — from mindful breathing to simple movement routines. These practices help you regain focus when feeling scattered, and research consistently affirms they support our mental agility.
The Rhythm of Reset
In my journey of restoration, I’ve found that few tools are as powerful as the breath; this evidence-based practice is my go-to for lowering cortisol and returning the body to a state of buoyant peace.
The Science of Social Connection
As a public health advocate, I view social connection not merely as a comfort, but as a critical clinical indicator of our long-term vitality. By applying Dr. Vivek Murthy’s framework on the 'Layers of Loneliness,' we move beyond the data to intentionally hardwire the Relationships (R) of the PERMA model into our community rhythms
The Geometry of Connection
Through my years of public health advocacy, I’ve learned that "being together" is an intentional art. I’ve selected this guide to Dr. Vivek Murthy’s work because it offers a vital framework for volunteers to recognize the three distinct layers of connection: intimate, relational, and collective. (Best paired with the book, "Together.")
How Asset-Based Community Development (Public Health) fuels the PERMA 'Relationships' pillar
Restoration begins when we stop looking at what a community lacks and start celebrating what it already possesses. This inspiring story from Ron Finley is a masterclass in 'Asset-Based' connection—proving that when we plant a seed in our own backyard, we grow more than just food; we grow a community. (A 10-minute visual win.)
🕯️ The Unspoken Landscape
Through the lens of faith and the 'epic' rhythm of our lives, I’ve found that the most profound community restoration often happens in the quiet, unspoken moments where we simply recognize one another's humanity.
Scientific Insights
A curated collection of journal articles and emerging insights from the field of public health. Here, I provide or translate public health data into actionable insights to help us understand the "why" behind our health journeys.
The Science of Mental Agility
Drawing from my background in public health, I’ve curated this look at how lifestyle habits—from movement to nutrition—protect our cognitive independence as we age.
Meaningful Travel
We don’t travel to escape our lives; we travel to see them clearly. This space is dedicated to the 'Return'—the insights, clearer minds, and lighter steps we bring home from intentional, modest, or nearby journeys. Travel is the ultimate 'Meaning' intervention. By shifting our geography, we renew our perspective—bringing the 'Return' home as a permanent part of our daily rhythm."
🌍 Reflections from the Road