These Things Happen to Your Body When You’re On Your Cell Phone Before Bed

April 6, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Many of us use a cell phone more now than ever, and they certainly have their benefits. However, plenty of people have pointed out the flaws of our plugged in world, such as losing our social skills, suffering from depersonalization, getting lazier, and even losing sleep.

Technology can serve as a wonderful tool to help us stay connected and learn new information. But that convenience comes with a price, and when it comes to our health, how much are we truly willing to sacrifice? Did you know that using your smartphone before bed can not only disrupt sleep? In fact, it can even make you feel hungover the following day?!

Here’s what happens to your body when you’re on your cell phone before bed:

According to a new study from Michigan State University, people who stayed up after 9PM finishing up work felt notably more tired and less productive the next day compared to those who didn’t get on their cell phone at night, the Telegraph reports.

“Smartphones are almost perfectly designed to disrupt sleep,” Russell Johnson, MSU assistant professor of management, told the Telegraph. “Because they keep us mentally engaged late into the evening, they make it hard to detach from work so we can relax and fall asleep.”

While this study only focused on those who stayed on their phones to do work, it can easily apply to people doing other activities on their phones, such as playing games, checking emails and scrolling through social media accounts.

The study also stressed that the “blue light” emitted from smartphones disrupts the body’s production of melatonin, a chemical that helps induce sleep. Countless studies have shown that the bright lights emitted from phones and computers can delay sleep for hours past your bedtime.

The bright blue lights from tablets, phones and computers basically tell our brains that we need to stay awake, not go to sleep. Artificial light can severely inhibit your body’s ability to produce melatonin, and research even found a link between disruptions to the circadian rhythm and a higher risk of cancer. We need darkness in order to produce melatonin, so especially at night, staying off electronics is vitally important.

Natural darkness helps to protect the body from damage, and keeps your sleep patterns intact. The suppression of melatonin also links to immune system deficiencies, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity and heart disease.

Final Thoughts on Using a Cell Phone Before You Retire to Bed

Out in nature, the sun tells our bodies to wake up and start the day. So, with all these artificial lights today, we stay awake longer and longer. That’s because our brains don’t know the difference between natural and unnatural light. However, you can make things easier on yourself by turning off electronics a few hours before bed. Then, keep them off during the night so they don’t awaken you with notifications.

Our society seriously needs to remember to slow down and take time to look after our health. You can do other things before bed. For example, try reading a book, practicing meditation or yoga, writing in a journal, or taking a nice, warm bath. Our world puts so much emphasis on plugging in. So remember to tune out a little bit each night. Instead, tune into your body’s desires and needs.

5 Ways To Increase The Serotonin In Your Brain

April 5, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is vital in regulating mood, appetite, sleep, and other bodily functions. It is produced in the brain and other parts of the body, such as the gut, and acts as a chemical messenger between nerve cells. Serotonin works by transmitting signals from one nerve cell to another and affects the brain’s mood centers, including the hypothalamus and the prefrontal cortex.

Low serotonin levels are associated with depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. In these conditions, a lack of serotonin in the brain can cause feelings of sadness, irritability, and a lack of motivation. Conversely, increased serotonin levels can lead to happiness, relaxation, and well-being.

We should consider that we can naturally increase this vital brain chemical to be exciting! Many ailments, acute and chronic, are believed to be due – at least in part – to low levels of serotonin in the brain. We encourage our readers to use this valuable knowledge included in this article to enhance their physical and mental health.

Here are 5 ways to increase serotonin in the brain:

1. Get some 5-HTP

This little “hack” is a terrific way to help ward off the blues. Formally called 5-Hydroxytryptophan, this substance has been found effective in treating anxiety, depression, fibromyalgia, insomnia, and hypertension. 5-HTP accomplishes these things by stimulating the production of the chemical serotonin.

In addition, 5-HTP positively affects weight levels – a trait derived from the substance’s appetite suppression. In a study at an Italian University, female participants who ingested 5-HTP lost an additional 10 pounds over two weeks, in contrast to the placebo group who lost just two pounds over the same time period.

To realize the serotonin-boosting benefits of 5-HTP, try a dosage of 100 to 400 milligrams per day in multiple doses (i.e. at breakfast, lunch and dinner). Anticipate a time period of 4 to 6 weeks before any 5-HTP supplementation begins to demonstrate tangible benefits.

Dietitians explain the dangers of a B6 deficiency (and how to beat it!).

2. Take some B vitamins

Vitamin B6, in particular, aids in both the development and function of serotonin in the brain. Those prone to stress should consider supplementing their diet with a B-complex product, due to its myriad effects on brain chemicals.

Both vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 effectively reduce depressive symptoms while inhibiting erratic neural activity in the brain. According to a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, older adults diagnosed with depression or who experienced depressive-like symptoms improved after supplementing their diets with B vitamins.

The recommended intake of a B-complex product, such as a supplement, is 50 to 100 mg daily. Those with additional symptoms, including fatigue/exhaustion or chronic stress, should consider adding a pantothenic acid – a twice-daily 250 mg dose of B5 vitamins- often sufficient for alleviating such symptoms.

3. Embrace the light

Ever wonder why opening the shades on a sunny day has a distinctive way of improving our mood? Well, it may be because our brain self-injects itself with serotonin chemicals. Even on a frigid or cool day, sunlight has a noticeable positive affect on our mindset.

A productive and healthy practice is walking briskly for fifteen to twenty minutes at least once (or even twice) a day. Regardless of frequency, it is best to walk in the morning for two reasons:

You will burn more calories, and
You’ll mentally prepare ourselves for the day ahead. Not only will your brain reward you with a serotonin kick, but you will also burn off some calories in the process.

4. Get a massage

Massages feel really good…pretty much everybody knows this already. What most of us probably do not know is that massages have a direct effect on our serotonin levels. Physiologically speaking, messages effectively reduce the stress hormone cortisol – a chemical that actively blocks the production of serotonin.

Researchers have discovered that professional massages decrease cortisol levels by about 31 percent. When cortisol production drops, our brains are in an optimal state to produce serotonin chemicals. As an added benefit, massage therapy can increase the “reward and pleasure” brain chemical dopamine production.

Experts quickly point out that undergoing guided massage therapy is the premier method of boosting serotonin and dopamine levels in the brain, in addition to other sought after health benefits. However, a simple massage by a close companion will suffice for many. Those experiencing turmoil (including trauma) should consult a licensed massage therapist, whose expertise will be invaluable in counteracting psychological stressors.

5. Meditate

Ah, yes…no “serotonin-boosting” article would be complete without including meditation. Simply put, the proliferation of scientific studies that prove meditation’s physical and psychological benefits are mind-boggling. Numerous forms of meditative practices exist, and all of them are beneficial in increasing the production of serotonin.

Perhaps the most impactful form of meditation on serotonin levels is Transcendental Meditation, or TM. Researchers believe that TM is a powerful stimulant on serotonin levels due to elevation of one of serotonin’s building blocks: 5-HIAA. Science has discovered a direct correlation between increasing concentrations of 5-HIAA and elevated serotonin levels in the brain.

Like massage therapy, meditation reduces cortisol levels in the brain. Additionally, meditation is particularly adept at invoking a relaxed response in the brain. Additionally, it suppresses the brain’s natural “fight or flight” reaction.

Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is another meditation type linked to elevated serotonin levels, partially because MBSR further sensitizes serotonergic receptors, an important variable in producing serotonin. Interestingly, MBSR is the meditative technique utilized by military personnel with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Final Thoughts on Increasing Serotonin in Your Brain

Serotonin is a crucial neurotransmitter that plays an important role in regulating mood and emotions in your brain. Low serotonin levels can lead to feelings of sadness and anxiety, while an increase in serotonin levels can result in happiness and well-being. Maintaining healthy serotonin levels through exercise, a balanced diet, and antidepressant medications can help to improve mood and overall emotional health.

In other words, serotonin sends a signal to your brain, increasing happy thoughts and positive vibes. Try these five hacks, and you may decrease feelings of depression and experience a more joyful life.

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

How To Rebuild Trust In A Relationship

April 5, 2016 by Power of Positivity

If we all closed ourselves off after getting hurt, could we ever truly engage in or trust relationships again?

Broken trust and betrayal has occurred in many of our lives, both in romantic relationships and friendships alike. Even family members can break our trust. However, difficulties arise in any relationship, and we must learn how to work through any issues that may come up and keep the lines of communication open.

Unfortunately, getting hurt comes as part of the package deal in this human experience, but we don’t have to let this keep us from building positive relationships with others. Broken promises and compromised feelings can make us want to push others out and never trust again, but if your relationship means anything to you, please keep reading to learn how to rebuild trust in that person.

Here’s how to rebuild trust in a relationship:

1. Say how you feel.

Your first reaction might be to ignore your partner until they come to you and say sorry, but you might have to be the bigger person and make the first move. They might not realize they even did anything wrong, so make sure you make it clear to them how you feel. Remember to talk in a calm, rational manner, and try not to sound accusatory. Take the first point into consideration and tell them you understand that no one is perfect. However, make sure you lay everything on the table and tell them exactly how you feel.

Part of learning to trust again means opening up to the very person that hurt you. Even if you go different ways, you can at least find solace in the fact that you were honest about your feelings, and left no stone unturned.

2. Look at the bigger picture.

Can you justify your feelings by their actions, or could you be overreacting just a bit? Though trust must be earned in a relationship, you need to discern serious breaches in trust from minor ones.

For example, if the person cheated on you, you and your partner need to have a serious talk about your relationship. However, if your partner forgot about your dinner plans for the evening, you might want to hold back your feelings for a bit and listen to his or her explanation. They might have had to stay late at work, or just honestly forgotten about your plans.

Try to see the situation as it is, and don’t make it something more. Listen to your partner or friend and decide if the situation merits a strong reaction or not. Most importantly, keep the lines of communication open, and let your partner fully speak their mind before you give your reaction.

3. Give them a second chance (if warranted) while also keeping in mind your own value.

Essentially, you have to find the middle ground here. If you’ve given someone a chance to earn your trust but they have consistently disrespected and betrayed you, you should probably let them go. Trust is a two-way street, and the other person has to meet you halfway. Learning to trust again involves paying attention to your feelings, and discerning if the person deserves to be in your life or not.

A breach of trust usually means the person needs time to deal with personal issues; when other people hurt you, their own hurt is spilling over, causing them to hurt others. Understand their pain, but also know when it’s time to call it quits. You have to respect yourself enough to discontinue any relationship that doesn’t serve you in the best way, but know when to give others a second chance.

4. Don’t bring up the past.

Most of us have had a turbulent, painful past, because we’ve had to go through certain situations in order to grow as a person. Learn from the rough waters of the past, but don’t let them steer your vessel. Take charge and realize that the past should stay in the past, and that you have to let people in if you want to continue to grow.

The past doesn’t have to define your future; you can take ownership of your feelings and choose to let the past make you a better person, not a bitter person. People will always hurt you in one way or another, but some relationships will be worth the pain. Any relationship requires effort, but you’ll know in your heart who needs to stay in your life to help you blossom into your best self.

10 Phrases People With Chronic Illness Want To Tell You (But Are Afraid To)

April 5, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Let us acknowledge this fact right at the beginning. Perhaps nothing is more anguishing than knowing that someone you love is mentally or physically hurting from chronic illnesses.

As human beings, we are inescapably connected to each living, breathing person on earth. Now, when we actively love and care for a person, such a connection is also inexplicably intimate. With such a connection, we share each other’s emotions: love, joy, despair, heartache.

It’s painful to admit you may have to live with a diagnosis for an extended time – or forever. However, to acknowledge and dwell on the difficulties of such suffering is a disservice to the one that you love and care for. Ask yourself this: would the person you love and cherish want you to think or feel what you’ve been thinking or feeling?

There is no doubt that we will think or feel things that are not necessarily agreeable to those afflicted. The overarching premise that we need to examine is whether or not we should suffer “in silence,” or to be outspoken and animated with such thoughts or feelings. So, let’s not pretend to understand what is best for every individual circumstance; however, it is encouraged that every person examines his or her motivations and reasons for such thoughts or feelings. Be advised that such examination involves a rational and minimally emotional discourse.

Here are 10 things people with chronic illness wish you knew:

We are all visitors to this time, this place. We are just passing through. Our purpose here is to observe, to learn, to grow to love…and then we return home. – Aboriginal Proverb

We encourage each person, whether or not they know anyone with chronic illness, to listen to both the spoken and unspoken desires of people that have been diagnosed with chronic illnesses to understand their perspective. In the end, what these people say may surprise you.

1. “Understand that I often feel guilty.”

Simply because someone is diagnosed with a chronic condition doesn’t mean that they shed their sense of responsibility. In fact, it is fair to say that those stricken with such a condition often feel an enhanced obligation to participate so as not to use their health problems as an excuse. The lesson: don’t underestimate or pity this person, regardless of how you may feel.

2. “Please try to understand my illness.”

People with chronic conditions have to deal with a number of frustrating things. Among them is the fact that not many people will, nor attempt to, understand the condition for which they were diagnosed. Well-meaning (but useless) sentiments include “get better soon” or “this is just temporary/a phase.” How ignorant this is! It’s obvious that such people have not made the effort to understand the condition. How are they supposed to sympathize with it?

3. “Don’t take my time for granted.”

Sadly, some people that are diagnosed with an incurable illness face a lifespan shorter than what they anticipated. Over time, such people come to accept their fate. Perhaps most difficult for them is their family and friend’s inability to accept such a fate. Many of those with chronic illnesses want their loved ones to embrace and enjoy each remaining moment, no matter how difficult it may be.

4. “Don’t take my illness for granted.”

Somewhat related to both #2 and #3: we shouldn’t ignorantly proclaim how good someone looks or that they “don’t seem sick.” Granted, this is a fine line between ignorance and sympathy, but resisting the temptation to verbalize such abstractions of someone’s condition obliviously shouldn’t be too difficult. Just stay away from expressing sentimentalities of which you’re not knowledgeable.

5. “I hate asking for help.”

Most people that are diagnosed with a chronic condition understand the inherent limitations that’ve been placed upon them. Furthermore, those that are not physically or mentally handicapped understand the need to ask for help, no matter how uncomfortable it may make them feel.

Make no mistake about it, many people – especially those with health conditions – dread having to ask for any type of assistance.

6. “I miss your company.”

As with any minority group, people with chronic illnesses often feel isolated and lonely. Despite of our innate and natural inclinations to “leave a person be,” that is often the direct opposite of what they truly want. They want company, support, comradery and…most of all…love.

7. “Don’t forget about my partner.”

Someone with a chronic illness often has an unrelenting advocate by their side 24/7: their partner. These people are “behind the screen” doing whatever it takes to support and comfort the person that they unconditionally love. When we see such devoted people, we should ask how they are doing.

8. “Please let me vent.”

Everyone deals with situations in their way, including people with chronic conditions. The fact is that some people feel the need to vent their frustrations while others do not.

For those in a supportive role, the bottom line is this: listen to such frustrations without acting upon the inclination to interject or digress. These folks have earned that right.

9. “Pity is not welcome here.”

If there is one thing that those with chronic illnesses will not tolerate, it is excessive and unwelcome pity. Our brothers and sisters remain our brothers and sisters regardless of what they’ve been diagnosed with. We can argue, “This is unfair!” until our faces are sky blue, but all we’ve accomplished nothing in the end.

People don’t want to feel pity; they want to feel accepted, loved, and cherished.

10. “I love you, no matter what.” (A personal note)

I can say that none of us are perfect – and this includes our loved ones. People who have chronic illnesses don’t expect you to monitor and evaluate every step.

Instead, we must simply follow this “rule:” love each other, respect each other, and leave the pity behind…and just do the best you know how.

How To Make Juice That Can Stop Snoring And Sleep Apnea

April 5, 2016 by Power of Positivity

The act of sleeping comprises about one-third of our life. It’s not just about time, but also the fact that sleeping affects nearly everything that we need to do, and the quality of things that we want to do. When thought of in this context – that quality of sleep affects quality of life – we’re more apt to take sleep seriously.

Snoring is a period of loud breathing, snorting or grunting sounds made when one sleeps. If we have a sleeping partner, odds are that snoring frequently disrupts their ability to sleep, which in turn affects things that they need or want to do (we’re guessing they probably made you aware of it by now!)

As defined by the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, Sleep Apnea is “a common disorder which you have one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while you sleep.” Such disruptions in breathing may last anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes, and may occur 30 times or more in an hour. Unsurprisingly, this condition results in a poor quality of sleep and leads to increased episodes of daytime sleepiness.

Currently, there are all sorts of medications and contraptions that are designed to relieve snoring. The same can be said for sleep apnea. However, it is always best to utilize natural solutions, as they almost always are better received by the body.

This ONE Juice Helps Stop Snoring and Sleep Apnea

Juicing has become a common method for people to achieve various health outcomes, from supplementing vitamins and nutrients to counteracting diagnosed health conditions. The ingredients used in juicing are often raw and unmodified (unadulterated), which accomplishes two things: (1) it’s easier to digest and (2) it allows for maximum nutritional benefits (processed foods often undergo mechanisms that subtract from the food’s nutritional value.) Generally, such juices are predominantly made of raw fruits and vegetables.

With that said, a simple juice concoction exists that reduces the effects of snoring and sleep apnea. The premise behind this mixture is to eliminate excess mucus, which is a primary factor in symptoms of snoring and sleep apnea.

The ingredients and the preparation are very simple, although it is recommended that the products included in the mix are of the organic, raw variety for the reasons mentioned in the previous paragraph. It is also helpful to have a juicing machine, as these devices will blend the mixture more thoroughly.

Here are the ingredients that you’ll need (quantities are for 1 serving):

– 2 Apples (of any preferred type)

– 2 Carrots

– ¼ of a Lemon

– 1 inch stick of ginger

Simply use a juicing machine, such as a NutriBullet, to combine and thoroughly blend the ingredients. Sans a juicing machine, a traditional blending machine will suffice.

In addition to this and other healthy diet options, certain lifestyle changes can relieve the symptoms of both snoring and sleep apnea. In terms of diet, it is important to minimize or (preferably) eliminate alcohol because of its suppressive effect on the central nervous system.

For those that smoke, quitting this habit will likely ease an assortment of symptoms. The reason is obvious: smoking impairs the lungs and blood vessels, which restricts airflow produced by the lungs. The adverse health effects of smoking are both short and long-term in nature. In addition, quitting smoking results in near-immediate improvement in the ability to breathe.

It is important to maintain a healthy weight for a multitude of reasons, including the suppression of snoring and sleep apnea symptoms. As this relates to sleep apnea, individuals that are overweight are more likely to get the disorder. According to Cedars-Sinai, those will store fat and tissue around the neck can apply restrictive pressure on the airway or tongue.

Some other pieces of advice:

– Avoid eating too much chocolate

– Eat fried food in small amounts, or eliminate it completely

– Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily

– Eliminate or limit the amount of processed foods

– Eliminate or limit the amount of starched, sugar-laden foods

– Establish a set sleeping routine. Go to bed at and wake up at the same time every day

Lifestyle changes are necessary for minimizing the symptoms of snoring and sleep apnea. Be cognizant of what is put into your body and remain steadfast in your sleeping routines. Eat adequate amounts of raw fruits and vegetables on a daily basis. Seek support if you desire to stop smoking or drinking alcohol.

Here’s How Using Lemon Peels Can Help You Wake Up Pain Free

April 5, 2016 by Power of Positivity

The tart, bright taste of lemon is like a burst of sunshine for your body, and it can even help you wake up pain free if you know how to use lemon peels. Treating your pain with something you probably have at home already will keep you active and out of the doctor’s office.

The cause of your specific pain is specific to you. In this article we will be talking about how to use it to fight the pain of inflammation.

Inflammation in the body is the cause of much pain and illness. Inflammation means that the body’s blood vessels are dilated and swollen. This swelling leads to redness, pressure, stiffness and pain.

Although pain can be felt anywhere in the body, most commonly the pain of inflammation is felt in the joints. Joint pain can occur in any part of the body that has bone to tissue connection. That means that any one of the 360 joints in your body could be experiencing the pain of inflammation right now.

The active ingredient that helps relieve pain is the flavones. Flavones are a molecule in fruit, vegetables, tea, wine and herbs, which often give us a strong taste associated with the food. In lemon peels it is specifically polymethoxy flavones which contribute to the anti-inflammatory benefit that can help you wake up pain free.

Here’s How Using Lemon Peels Can Help You Wake Up Pain Free

NOTE: Prior to using this for pain relief, speak to your health care professional about whether your health concern would benefit from this type of treatment. There are some conditions, such as chronic pelvic pain or individual sensitivities to limonene that could cause an unhealthy reaction.

Let’s look at how you can use lemon peel to wake up pain free. Get the most benefit from lemon peel as possible by following this simple method to extract the pain relieving properties:

Grate the lemon peel of two lemons
Remove the yellow part of the rind without grating any of the white pith part
Put the rind of two lemons in a clean jar and fill the jar with olive oil
Close the jar and let it rest for 2 weeks
Apply the lemon infused olive oil onto clean gauze and wrap or place the gauze onto the area where you are feeling pain
Wrap the gauze with plastic wrap to seal the oil against your skin
Place a wool or cloth wrap over the plastic wrap to help keep the area warm

The warmth of your own body heat being retained against your skin will help the lemon peel oil to penetrate into your skin and help your joint pain.

Lemon peel can be taken internally and eaten, however, the benefits from the pain-relieving properties of the peel are believed to be best absorbed externally. Some compounds found in lemon peel cannot be passed to the bloodstream through digestion. If you are not concerned with possible interactions, you may try adding a small amount (a pinch) of your grated lemon peel to a glass of water and see if you notice any change in your pain levels.

Nutritional benefits

Lemon peels are naturally high in Vitamin C, just like the fruit inside. They also contain Potassium, Magnesium, Calcium, Vitamin B6, Folate, and Iron in smaller amounts. Lemon peels also contain the fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6. Lemon peels also have phytosterols.

Don’t worry about calories when consuming lemon peel as you would have to eat 6 grams (a whole tablespoon) of the tart stuff to equal a puny 3 calories. Just as you would add lemon juice or a lemon wedge to water, you can also add grated lemon peel to a beverage.

Other health benefits

Lemon is also a cancer-fighting agent. The same polymethoxylated flavones that help reduce inflammation also help fight cancer. A study found that these flavones inhibited the growth of a several different types of human cancer cells.

The citric acid in lemon juice and lemon peels can help eliminate kidney stones. The citric acid helps reduce the likelihood of calcium crystals forming in urine. The calcium crystals can become hard deposits or kidney stones.

Kidney stones, when they become lodged in the small diameter urethra can feel horribly painful. Avoiding the pain of kidney stones is an excellent reason to use lemon peels for a pain-free morning.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, citrus peels are used to help with respiratory problems. The lemon peels tend to help with a reduced inflammatory response in the lungs. Decreased inflammation can help with problems like asthma and bronchitis.

The Vitamin C in lemon peel is also good for preventing scurvy, a disease which is much less common than it used to be before citrus fruit were available year-round. An old remedy for scurvy used to be to mix lemon peel and vinegar and rub it into the patient’s gums.

Lemon peel can also help fight fatigue. A review of non-medical approaches to fight fatigue found that lemon peel was used traditionally to help with stabilizing emotions, improving confidence, and keeping the mind fresh.

5 Signs You Care…Too Much

April 4, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Obviously, this world could benefit greatly from more kindness and compassion, because frankly, we live in pretty egocentric times. Nice people bring so much light into the dark places of this world, helping to elevate the vibration of the planet. However, sometimes kindness and care can be the opposite end of the spectrum. Thus, it can become almost self-destructive rather than helpful.

You should care about others, of course, but not when it comes at the expense of your own well-being and happiness.

Here are 5 signs you care just a little too much:

1. People take advantage of your compassion and kindness often.

The moment you start putting others’ needs above your own, people will start to notice, and expect the royal treatment from you at all costs. Having a backbone doesn’t mean you don’t have sympathy for others. Indeed, it means you have a perfect balance between looking out for people while also taking care of your own needs. It’s okay to say no sometimes if you feel overwhelmed or simply don’t agree with others – you have every right to stand up for yourself without being labeled as cruel and unfeeling.

If you don’t think your opinion or well-being matter, people will start to treat you like a doormat. If you don’t believe in your worth, people will walk all over you. It’s important to remember that you have an obligation to look after your own self first, because no one else will fill that role for you.

2. You hide your opinion in fear of others rejecting you.

People pleasing behavior begins in childhood, when parents praise a child for obeying them but discourage him or her from asserting themselves, according to Jay Earley, author of Finding Your Life Purpose. Impressionable children perceive this as a threat, because they believe that in order to feel loved, they must please others and do as they’re told. Otherwise, they will be shunned and scolded for realizing their own needs have not been met by blindly following others orders.

So, because of this learned behavior, you probably go along with the popular opinion in order to please others and not cause any rifts. This also means you care too much about what other people think. Remember, your true friends and family won’t care that you have a different opinion than them, because two people can’t agree on everything all the time. Remember, other people’s reactions have nothing to do with you, so don’t take responsibility for them. You should never have to bend over backwards to please others at the expense of your own well-being.

3. You put everyone else’s needs above your own.

Perhaps this is the most draining and saddening aspect of being a truly kind-hearted person. Some people will only see you as a means to an end, or a tool in order to fulfill a goal in their storybook if you continually give them they idea that you’ll do anything for them at any cost. Being nice does sometimes feel like more of a curse than a blessing, but remember that people cannot take advantage of you unless you allow it to happen.

Make sure you set clear boundaries with people and let them know when they have crossed the line. You can learn how to say no without coming across as rude and uncaring; after all, if you don’t look out for yourself, who will?

4. You don’t give yourself enough self-love.

When you devote all of your time to caring for others, you might pass yourself up for a good dose of TLC. Make sure to let others know when you just can’t pencil something into your schedule; only commit to obligations that you feel certain you can follow through with. You deserve just as much love and attention as you give others; in fact, without enough self-care, you can easily fall into a state of disarray and depression. Spend time helping others, but don’t forget to take care of yourself, too.

“You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe, deserve your love and affection.” – Buddha

5. You attract needy, desperate people into your life.

Remember that in this universe, like attracts like. So not surprisingly, too much niceness will attract those who also seek attention from others. In a way, becoming a doormat for others is selfish, because deep within, you look to others to fill a void that you have not filled yourself. You have not discovered your true self-worth, so others can’t possibly recognize it, either.

Be sure to spend time developing yourself and practicing assertiveness when you need to; this way, you can start attracting people who are also kind-hearted, but don’t demand your love and affection.

10 Habits That Make You More Attractive

April 4, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Daily, loving self-care is a habit that can make you more attractive to others. There are many ways to treat yourself right that can make a visible difference on the outside as well as the inside.

Prioritizing self before others can feel selfish, but it is vital for your health, well-being, and wholeheartedness. Your self-confidence is attractive to others, so nourishing this inner resource is important. Let’s look at 10 daily habits that make you more attractive.

10 Habits That Make You More Attractive

When we think of attractiveness, we usually think of things that affect our physical appearance. However, not all attractiveness is external. Being attractive emotionally, spiritually, and mentally is just as important as sprucing up your exterior through a new hairstyle or a facial treatment.

1. Connect with people deeply

We are attracted to people like us, and we also find likable people attractive. You might not realize this, but being likable is easy. All you have to do is: be more interested in hearing about the other person than you are in talking about yourself.

When you are in conversation, ask probing questions to understand the background behind someone’s actions, preferences, and stories. What is this person like when they are at home alone? What are their fears and dreams? Actively listening to someone makes them feel important, and we all like to feel important.

2. Treat friendships as a priority

True friends don’t let friendships grow apart. By nourishing your friendships, you practice the skills necessary to sustain a romantic relationship as well.

What is more, friends make you smile, and smiling is always an attractive habit.

3. Live in the present moment

In a study of attractiveness in a speed-dating situation, women found men more attractive if they measured higher in mindfulness. Interestingly, this appears to only go one way for the sexes, as men in the study did not find mindful women to be more attractive.

Mindfulness is peacefulness. Self-awareness. It is the knowledge that in the present moment, everything is just as it should be. Mindfulness is attractive because we shift focus away from anxiety or depression while we focus on the now. Mindful people tend to be more emotionally balanced.

4. Move your body

Obviously physical exercise keeps a body in shape, and healthy bodies are more attractive than unhealthy ones. This is especially true of males and females who are looking for healthy partners with whom they hope to raise a family.

When we think of someone who is attractive, they almost always possess grace in their movements. Balance and stretching, as well as mindful movements, will help you to present yourself as an attractive partner.

5. Nourish yourself with excellent food

Nourishing your insides through eating the right foods helps nourish your skin. Radiant skin is always attractive, and beauty starts from the inside. Think about a potential mate watching you as you eat. Would your potential mate be more attracted to you if they saw you eating some greasy fast food or dining on a gourmet vegan meal that you had prepared yourself?

6. Know your self-worth

Be sure of your value. Be confident in the fact that you are intrinsically valuable as a human being and more so because of your character, intelligence, and kind actions. It’s been said before that confidence is sexy, and self-love is the best way to build self-confidence.

Project your value with your head held high. Meet the gaze of others directly and say to yourself, “I would make a great catch for the partner who is worthy of me.” Be careful not to cross the line into arrogance. Aim for an attitude of gentle self-assurance.

7. Have excellent sleep habits

Sleep ensures that our bodies are able to replenish their depleted resources. Making a habit of getting good rest also means that you’ll look better physically; your skin will look healthy and your eyes will shine!

Mentally, well-rested people are better able to cope with stress and less likely to fail to manage their emotions. Good sleep is a good self-care habit that can also make you more attractive to your potential mate.

8. Make it a habit to have downtime

Self-care includes regularly treating yourself to time with no stress or concerns. Make sure to release stress by enjoying plenty of downtime. Again, visualize your ideal mate watching you as you relax. Choose an activity that feeds your soul like mindfulness meditation, yoga, or reading.

9. Forgive and learn from mistakes

Self-improvement is synonymous with continually learning. Studies that consider desirable traits in a partner show that “psychological traits are important in human mating, with both sexes valuing intelligence and kindness very highly.”

Intelligence doesn’t have to mean that you have a degree. You can demonstrate intelligence to a potential mate by learning from mistakes and handling it well when you make one. You can demonstrate self-kindness by forgiving yourself for making a mistake in the first place; then, show what you’ve learned by avoiding the mistake in the future.

10. Take immense pleasure in simple things

In every moment, you have a choice to be happy or angry/sad/afraid. Choose joy and gratitude no matter the situation. This choice could lead you to find the mate who is right for you, and who has a matching inner and outer attractiveness.

And above ALL things, it’s most important to remember that you will be loved not for who you aren’t but for who you truly ARE. This list is only meant to help bring you closer to that truly authentic, loving, attractive self.

7 Signs The Law of Attraction is Working For You

April 3, 2016 by Power of Positivity

The New Age concept called “The Law of Attraction” basically states that you attract the energy you put out into the world. Whatever thoughts you repeatedly give your energy to, experiences of that nature will show up in your life, simply because you have created them subconsciously. The quote “What you think about, comes about” best summarizes the law of attraction. In order to manifest anything in your life, you have to first bring it into your field of consciousness with your thoughts, which transform into visions, and then action.

So, if you focus on negative thoughts or people, you will have more negative experiences. Conversely, if you shift your attention to the positive aspects of your life and what feels good, you will see more of that appear in the future. The law of attraction concept has been popularized in recent years due to the book and film “The Secret,” and although it shed much-needed light on one of the most hidden universal truths, it also raised many questions about how people can actually get this to work for them.

Many people feel baffled by this concept, but here are some signs that you’re on the right track with manifesting the reality you want.

Here are 7 signs the law of attraction is working for you:

1. You start manifesting things at a faster rate when the law of attraction is working.

When you turn your attention to things you DO want in your life, more of those things will start to appear before you. If you have learned to shut out the negative voice in your head telling you everything going wrong, and have shifted your focus to everything going right, you have already mastered one of the key components of the law of attraction. As you continue to keep your mind centered on what you want to see more of in your life, you will likely notice these things manifest more quickly. Everything starts to fall into place for you, and it couldn’t feel more right. You have learned to remain grateful for what you do have, and the universe has sent you even more to be thankful for.

2. You feel totally open to changes.

“What you resist, persists.” Any time you put up walls between you and an experience or person, you will only encounter it more often until you face your fears and confront any challenges head on. We all have come to Earth to get in touch with our highest selves, and that involves breaking the mold and leaving behind old thought processes and habits in order to reach our full potential. You have learned to just go with the flow, and accept whatever may come. You embrace every aspect of change; the vulnerability, the fear, the uncertainty. Because of this, the universe can more easily send you what you need on your path to keep growing and learning.

Remember this quote to help you out: “Only those who risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” – T. S. Eliot

3. You keep your attention on the present moment.

Most of our lives, we have been fooled into thinking that only the future matters, and the present moment has no value. If you have noticed your life going in the right direction, you’ve likely learned how to shift your attention to the now instead of focusing so much on the future. Each moment you have, you focus on what you learned and keep the lessons with you along the way.

You’ve learned to redirect your attention to The Now anytime you catch yourself worrying or contemplating the future too much.

4. You don’t feel afraid to tell the universe what you want.

Whether you believe in angels, spirit guides, or your higher self, you have gotten comfortable with the idea of telling the universe what you want, and actually working for it. If something doesn’t feel right in your life, you ask for guidance along the way. As you delve deeper into spirituality or simply talking with yourself or your angels, your unique path will become even clearer to you.

5. You feel more positive energy in your life.

All the negativity and heaviness that you once felt in your heart seems to melt away. The things that once bothered you just don’t seem to anymore. You feel happy, excited, and ready for what the day holds when you wake up in the morning. You know that the universe always has your back, so there’s no need to fret about the future or allow negativity to reign in your life.

6. You feel at peace when the law of attraction is working for you.

Regardless of what might be happening around you, you feel calm and content with where you’re at in life. You don’t let things outside of yourself bother you anymore. That’s because you feel at ease within. You’ve finally found balance in life, and everything feels right just as it is. You don’t feel like you’re missing out on anything, and you have a strong connection to yourself and the universe, which contributes to all the good in your life.

You finally can relate to the saying: “life is good.”

7. Good things keep happening to you.

Obviously, when you tap into your higher self and discover what you came here to accomplish, life just starts to seem effortless. You meet the right people at just the right time, you go to places that enhance your spiritual growth and allow you to flourish, you become healthier, you have more abundance financially, and so on. While the right path isn’t completely devoid of obstacles, you start to notice that the good finally outweighs the bad.

Weekly tips, affirmations, and small actions to feel your best.

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!