From left to right, clockwise: Becky Harlan/NPR; steal Dobi/Getty Images; Miko Maciaszek for NPR; Adrian Astorgano for NPR; Malte Mueller/Getty Images; Malaka Gharib/NPR; Reina Takahashi for NPR
How much should I spend on a wedding gift? What is a “non-alcoholic cocktail for sleeping girl“? How do I know if I am in a codependent relationship? In 2024, our experts debunked common misconceptions, researched fashion trends, and weighed in on tricky social etiquette on a wide range of health and lifestyle topics.
Of the more than 150 episodes we’ve released in 2024, a few have really taken off with our audience. You loved our comics on food safety and feng shui; our myth-busting stories about infidelity and sleeping around; and the good (and bad) things to say to a friend whose loved one has died.
Here are our top 10 episodes, ranked by page views on NPR.org.
10. Popular Sleep Myths Debunked
Is it OK to exercise before going to bed? Sleeping less than 5 hours per night? Sleep scientist Rebecca Robbins sets the record straight to help you sleep better.
9. Once a cheater, always a cheater? Busting 3 Common Myths About Infidelity
Clinical psychologist Talal Alsaleem has helped hundreds of couples resolve romantic relationships. He shares common misconceptions about cheating and how to deal with it.
8. Is it OK to continue reheating leftovers? Honest Questions About Food Safety, Illustrated
How real is the five second rule? Will I get explosive diarrhea if I keep reheating the same leftovers? A refresher course on food safety before the end-of-year holidays.
7. Design Tips to Transform Your Home, According to a Feng Shui Expert
Fall in love with your home all over again with these feng shui-inspired decorating tips from architect Cliff Tan. They focus on creating an environment that is happy, harmonious and full of good energy.
6. BD: Can I just wash the stinky bits? And other honest questions about bathing
Washing your body seems obvious. But once you get into the details, things get complicated. Dermatologists offer surprising advice on how often to shower, when to throw out your loofah, and more.
5. Stuck in a rut? How to Enjoy Your Life Again, According to Science
After a while, even the most exciting relationships, jobs, and environments lose their spark. But cognitive neuroscientist Tali Sharot says it’s possible to fall back in love with the little joys in life.
4. BD: Science-Based Mood Boosters to Get You Out of the Funk (Almost Instantly)
Six techniques to energize yourself when you’re feeling lazy and relax when you’re feeling stressed. Feel the transformation in 15 minutes or less.
3. The right (and wrong) things to say to a grieving friend
It can be difficult to find the right words to say to a friend whose loved one has died. Experts share do’s and don’ts while expressing condolences.
2. To Save More Money, Avoid These 5 Common Financial Mistakes
Financial missteps can cost you money. Make more informed decisions about budgeting, investing and borrowing money.
1. What is the new etiquette when it comes to tipping?
Requests for tips are increasing. Businesses that never seemed to ask for a tip, like fast food restaurants, are now asking for one. Here’s how to handle unexpected requests and more.
The digital story was edited by Meghan Keane. The visual editor is Beck Harlan. We would love to hear from you. Leave us a voicemail at 202-216-9823 or email us at LifeKit@npr.org.
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