The Ritual Effect by Michael Norton review – standing on ceremony

From Rafael Nadal’s ball-bouncing to families’ Christmas traditions, what purpose does ritualistic behaviour serve?

My first time at a sound healing: ‘Is this the longest I’ve gone without checking my phone?’

In her fortnightly review of fitness and wellbeing activities, comedian Jennifer Wong gets immersed in music and lost in a sunset

Speech fasting: would staying silent until midday make us happier and healthier?

Lulu has revealed that, when she’s performing, she doesn’t speak before noon. It might sound tricky – but could have benefits

Ditch the UPFs! How to make easy, healthy convenience foods – from fizzy drinks to flapjacks

There’s no reason to give up your favourites, whether that’s flavoured yoghurt, white sliced bread or cookies. The key is to make them yourself

A Body Made of Glass by Caroline Crampton review – an intelligent and engaging history of hypochondria

In this fascinating book, a survivor of a life-threatening illness chronicles the history of health anxiety and ponders whether it is a rational response to our flawed bodies

The Price of Life by Jenny Kleeman review – what’s it worth?

A riveting examination of the value we place on human life – from healthcare to hitmen

The big idea: why am I so forgetful?

A failing memory can be frustrating, but it may be a sign your brain is working exactly as it should

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt – a pocket full of poison

An urgent and persuasive warning about the toll of ‘phone-based childhoods’

‘There’s joy I haven’t felt for years!’ How an app finally got me hooked on the piano

Thirty years after failing his grade two exam, our writer is banging out Handel, Billie Eilish and Elton John - and he’s not alone. With apps to help with learning, there’s never been a better time to tinkle the ivories

Our Body review – a brave, unblinking, hospital’s-eye view of women’s health

Documentarist Claire Simon films women, including herself, receiving care in a women’s health, obstetrics and gynaecology ward at a Parisian hospital