Unlocking the ‘gut microbiome’ – and its massive significance to our health

Scientists are only just discovering the enormous impact of our gut health. Rebecca Seal reveals how it could hold the key to everything from tackling obesity to overcoming anxiety and boosting immunity

Why I’m glad that I’m an ‘overthinker’

Examining every aspect of a question can be exhausting, but the most amazing insights can be gained that way, writes Annalisa Barbieri

How I realised my family of two was perfect for me

Families come in all different sizes – the secret is realising that yours may be even better than the one you longed for

Drinking straw device is instant cure for hiccups, say scientists

Sipping water through an L-shaped ‘suction and swallow tool’ cured 92% of attacks, according to study

Knowledge of medicinal plants at risk as languages die out

Loss of linguistic diversity means less chance to discover age-old remedies not known to science, study warns

Hope feels dangerous in a pandemic – so I am trying to build happiness by focusing on small delights

I am not one of nature’s sunbeams, but we all need optimism in our lives right now. Can looking for little moments of joy help, asks Emma Beddington

My best friend at school moved in with us – and taught me to trust again

How a close and enduring relationship forged in the school playground turned my life around

Why self-belief is a superpower that can be harnessed

Lockdowns may have eroded people’s swagger, but research suggests there are plenty of ways to remedy the situation

The supersense secret: Steve Biddulph on how to become healthier, happier and more fully human

The psychologist Steve Biddulph believes we are tapping into only a small corner of our potential. In his latest book, he explains how to harness all our senses and gut instincts

Bees give me a sense of calm: discovering nature in my back garden

Their busy buzzing supplies the soundtrack to our summer – and by spotting them I’ve found a fresh sense of inner peace, says Alison Benjamin