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Life Kit Everyone needs a little help being a human. From sleep to saving money to parenting and more, host Marielle Segarra talks to experts to get the best advice out there. Life Kit is here to help you get it together.

Want another life hack? Try Life Kit+. You'll support the show and unlock exclusive curated playlists and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org/lifekit
Life Kit

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Life Kit

From NPR

Everyone needs a little help being a human. From sleep to saving money to parenting and more, host Marielle Segarra talks to experts to get the best advice out there. Life Kit is here to help you get it together.

Want another life hack? Try Life Kit+. You'll support the show and unlock exclusive curated playlists and sponsor-free listening. Learn more at plus.npr.org/lifekit

Most Recent Episodes

Why spending time in the woods makes you feel calm
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Why spending time in the woods makes you feel calm

Decades of research have shown that "forest bathing" is good for your health. It can boost your immune system, lower blood pressure and help with depression. Here's how to reap these benefits on your next walk in the woods. This episode originally published August 24, 2023.

Why spending time in the woods makes you feel calm

Listen · 16:21
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The etiquette of texting
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The etiquette of texting

In this episode, tips on how to manage your text messages, from dealing with chaotic group chats to getting an unresponsive friend to message you back. Erica Dhawan, author of Digital Body Language: How to Build Trust and Connection No Matter the Distance, explains how to apply the basic rules of etiquette to everyday texting conundrums.

The etiquette of texting

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Can I afford to buy a house?
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Can I afford to buy a house?

Buying a home can feel out of reach for many. But if you're an aspiring homeowner, there are ways to make it a reality. In this episode, mortgage reporter Molly Grace explains how to know if you're financially ready, what costs to budget for and how to find a home that works for you.

Can I afford to buy a house?

Listen · 19:23
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The art and pleasure of writing a letter
Illustration © by Joana Avillez, Reprinted with permission from "Syme's Letter Writer," by Rachel Syme, published by Clarkson Potter Publishers

The art and pleasure of writing a letter

In her new book, Syme's Letter Writer, Rachel Syme of The New Yorker explains how to write a delightful letter to a loved one. Unlike texting and email, old-fashioned letters, hand-addressed and sent in the mail, are "read intentionally," she says. Syme offers advice on what to write about, how to find the perfect stationery, and how to find a pen pal.

The art and pleasure of writing a letter

Listen · 21:39
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5 simple ways to minimize stress
Meredith Rizzo for NPR

5 simple ways to minimize stress

Need a break? Dr. Aditi Nerurkar, author of The 5 Resets, offers quick, easy ways to minimize stress in your daily life — no lavish vacations or big life changes necessary. This episode originally aired Feb. 6, 2024.

5 simple ways to minimize stress

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DLK: In our relationship, her dog comes first. Now I'm having doubts about us
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DLK: In our relationship, her dog comes first. Now I'm having doubts about us

That uncertainty you might feel in romantic relationships is common — and not always a bad thing, say Haley Nahman, writer of the Maybe Baby newsletter and Danny Nelson, co-host of the Dear Danny podcast series. In this episode of Life Kit, they weigh in on pet jealousy, whether it's OK to make a move on a friend, and questionable future in-laws.

DLK: In our relationship, her dog comes first. Now I'm having doubts about us

Listen · 21:20
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How to relieve constipation
Sarah Oh for NPR

How to relieve constipation

Haven't pooped in days? Gastroenterologists explain what to do in this SOS moment — and share tips on how to avoid chronic constipation. This episode was originally published July 10, 2023.

How to relieve constipation

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How to pack a go bag for emergencies
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How to pack a go bag for emergencies

As climate emergencies like wildfires and hurricanes become more prevalent, it's important to have essentials like food and medicine on hand and ready to go in case you need to evacuate. On today's episode, emergency preparedness expert Alyssa Provencio explains what you do and don't need in your go bag, how to create a household emergency plan and why now is a good time to prepare for disasters.

How to pack a go bag for emergencies

Listen · 23:35
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How to find a supportive queer community
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How to find a supportive queer community

If you're exploring your sexuality or gender identity for the first time, it's natural to feel overwhelmed. You might be processing mixed emotions, grieving the loss of people in your life or struggling with imposter syndrome. But on the other side is a supportive community that will celebrate you, not just tolerate you. In this episode, Life Kit producer Margaret Cirino talks with queer community organizers about the affirming power of queer spaces and how to find your own community.

How to find a supportive queer community

Listen · 22:51
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A beginner's guide to bartering
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A beginner's guide to bartering

Bartering can help you mind your budget and build relationships with your community. In this episode, we cover how to suggest bartering as an option and make the exchange feel fair. We'll also share stories of successful trades.

A beginner's guide to bartering

Listen · 20:44
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