The COVID-19 Pandemic Is Weakening Democracy Around the World, Report Finds

Governments around the world are using the COVID-19 pandemic as an excuse to restrict freedoms, punish independent news operations and attack minorities, according to a global survey by Freedom House, the U.S.-based nonprofit known for its annual assessment of global democracy. The report, published Friday, found that 91 countries have imposed new controls on news … Read more

Orange County’s Halloween Health Guidance Shares Alternatives to Traditional Celebration – Chapelboro.com

Orange County’s Halloween Health Guidance Shares Alternatives to Traditional Celebration  Chapelboro.com Health officials say trick-or-treating is high risk. Here are some Boise alternatives  Idaho Statesman Oct 1 Local health official recommends skipping some festivities for Halloween  Neuse News County: No Plans to Regulate Halloween Activity  ARLnow View Full Coverage on Google News >View original article Contributor:

Yoga and meditation reduce chronic pain

A mindfulness-based stress reduction course was found to benefit patients with chronic pain and depression, leading to significant improvement in participant perceptions of pain, mood and functional capacity, according to a new study. Most of the study respondents (89%) reported the program helped them find ways to better cope with their pain while 11% remained … Read more