Ashley Davis Bush, LCSW

We live in a culture that avoids emotional discomfort. In fact, our society makes it easy to look for distractions and diversions from all things painful. If we can drink, eat, shop, play or Facebook grief away, we will.

But here's the truth -- losing a loved one is excruciatingly...

In a word: appreciation. It sounds simple but its power is super-charged. The dual aspects of gratitude and recognition, both imbedded in the loving art of appreciation, are like sunshine and water to a plant.

As modern couples, we are at extreme risk for taking each other for...

We all know that one of the best ways to manage stress is exercise. Of course, we could also include massages, vacations, and healthy food as effective stress managers. But all these solutions require special circumstances that cost us money and time -- money and time that we often don't...

A relationship is like a plant: It needs regular attention to stay healthy. Does your plant have enough sunlight? Is the soil a bit dry? Are the flowers drooping?

When we come home stressed and exhausted at the end of the day, the thought of sitting down for a...

I know that you're busy. You're juggling work, family obligations and personal goals. I know that you're stressed. You've got financial pressures, time constraints, health concerns and house projects. Who has the time to relax when you can barely keep your head above water? You do!

Taken from my recent...

Grief is one of the most universal of human experiences. Virtually every single person you know, including yourself, will eventually lose a loved one. Grief is the great equalizer, experienced by everyone in spite of their wealth, education, health or fame. While some people experience loss earlier and more traumatically...

It's tempting to think that you need the tropical beach, the hammock by the lake, the walk in the woods, the yoga retreat or the special meditation cushion in order to feel the "ahhhhh" of inner peace. We all have certain props or places that we use to jump start...

It's Valentine's day again and no doubt restaurants will be full of star-struck, dopamine-heavy couples falling in love. Some may even be getting engaged. But if you've been coupled for a while, Valentine's day may feel routine. In fact, you may be at that stage where your sweetheart is dangerously...

Yes, it may seem obvious that he is a jerk. And, I know, she may makes Cruella de Vil look sweet. You could spend night and day complaining to anyone who will listen about how your ex is unfair, vicious, and lousy. And you might even be right. But guess...

Peaceful divorce -- sound like a paradox? In our society, even though more than half of our marriages will end in divorce, we still hold onto the idea that divorce is brutal, contentious and toxic. But it doesn't have to be that way.

In fact, divorce can be a transition...

The new year is up on the calendar. Will this be another year that you vow to start exercising only to drop your gym membership by Valentine's Day? Remember the year you were determined to start flossing? Take vitamins? Give up soda?

Studies show that even people with life threatening...

Perhaps it's a joyful time of year for you... But your best friend just lost her mother. Or maybe a colleague just lost a spouse. You know they're having a hard time and you'd like to be helpful, but you haven't a clue what to do or say. In fact,...

It's supposed to be the "most wonderful time of the year." But if you're already on the high wire juggling your time, finances, and energy, then the holidays can disrupt the delicate balancing act. If you're feeling more like Scrooge than Santa, then it's time to wake up and turn...