Grateful News January 2016

This month’s Grateful News focuses on just how good nature is for you, how a monk influenced the Paris climate agreement, peace-making dance, lake preservation, and welcoming family members of refugees in the UK.

This is Your Brain on Nature

When we get closer to nature—be it untouched wilderness or a backyard tree—we do our overstressed brains a favor. When we slow down, stop the busywork, and take in beautiful natural surroundings, not only do we feel restored, but our mental performance improves too. » Full Story

This Buddhist Monk Is An Unsung Hero In The World’s Climate Fight

Christiana Figueres, who led the climate talks, has credited Thich Nhat Hanh with having played a pivotal role in helping her to develop the strength, wisdom and compassion needed to forge the unprecedented deal backed by 196 countries.
» Video interview and story

Former enemies share samba in Colombia’s ‘Dancing with the Stars’

Featuring a former child soldier and a policeman held hostage for nine years by rebels, Colombia’s version of the hit TV contest “Dancing with the Stars” hopes to show millions of viewers that former battlefield enemies can live side by side.
» Full Story

Peru, Bolivia Sign $500 Million Deal To Preserve Lake Titicaca

Peru and Bolivia have signed a multi-million dollar deal designed to clean up Lake Titicaca and improve its biodiversity, including environmental management and recovery, through 2025.  » Full Story

Court ruling brings hope to Syrian families

An activist group, Citizens UK, visited a refugee camp in Calais, and found more than 200 Syrian children who have relatives in the UK. They have figured out a way to reunite them with their families.   » See the video