May 2006

  • Not a knockout? We all focus on our imperfections. But seeing yourself as others do casts you in the best possible light. Turns out that self-knowledge is the most important beauty secret of them all.

  • The hard demographic fact that you will likely spend most of your life on your own is reshaping singlehood into a satisfying destination rather than an anxiety-ridden way station. Welcome to the richly diversified world of today's singles.
  • It's every modern parent's worst nightmare—a school where kids can play all day. But no one takes the easy way out, and graduates seem to have a head start on the information age. Welcome to Sudbury Valley.
  • Personality and outlook are critical for staying healthy but a sunny disposition only goes so far. For some, a shot of pessimism packs more medicinal punch. From good stress to lethal optimism, the new rules of the immunity game.
  • Once upon a time, being assertive meant asking for trouble; today, you most likely need to stop worrying what the neighbors think.

More from this issue

How to Raise Kids Who Think for Themselves

Early lessons in independence.

Stress: Going Gray Overnight?

The link between stress and gray hair.

Live! From Group Therapy

Argentines are wild about "Crazy Radio."

Music: Living By Ear

Pamelia Kurstin, world class theremin player.

On the Job: The Puzzle Master

Sudoku: How one man started a global craze.

Fabio On Sex Appeal

Getting intimate with Fabio.

Cool Under the Collar

Emotional serenity in just eight weeks?

Dollars and Scents

Scents that make you reach for your wallet.

A Future Worth Investing In?

Advice on jealousy, abuse, online fantasies and more.

A Field Guide to the Workaholic

How to help a workaholic loosen up.

Fishing For Happiness

Happier and healthier with fish.

Lone Stars: Being Single

Welcome to the richly diversified world of today's singles.

Education: Class Dismissed

A school where kids can play all day—with good results.

Therapy: The Perfect Fit

Tips on choosing a therapist.

How Healthy Is Soy?

Weighing the merits of tofu.

In Brief: Fair Hair to Test Taking

Facts from Ice-Age blondes to cramming for tests.

How to Feel More Attractive

Feeling beautiful comes from the inside.

Bookshelf: Happiness to Motherhood

Book reviews on happiness, motherhood and more.

The Right Way to Rock the Boat

Stop worrying about what the neighbors will think.

Consumption Index: What's "In"

What's "in" on your grocery list.

Setting Your Thermostat

Keeping your emotions in check.

What's Your Vacationing Style?

Taking enough time to vacation? Take the quiz.

Job Hunt: Check Your Mindset

Positive thinking brings the best job offers.

The Sweat Boost

Exercise has a nuanced impact on immunity.

Can I Be Friends With My Ex's Pals?

Managing friendships after the split.

The Language of Rock

How well do you know your favorite rock star?

Coming Out With Dad

Getting straight with his dad.

Going Off The Deep End

Temporary insanity in the deep.

A Case for Double-Edged Optimism

The new rules of the immunity game.

Jog Your Brain

Looking for a creative spark? Hop to the gym.

Nostalgia: Sweet Remembrance

Try a shot of nostalgia to lift your mood.

The Beguiling Truth About Beauty

You're more attractive than you think.

When You're Smarter Than Your Boss

Help yourself by helping the boss.

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