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Trying This Ancient Herb Can Relieve Your Next Headache

February 21, 2016 by Power of Positivity

You may have already read about one natural herbal ingredient that can help relieve headaches, but this article will give you another herb that could help fight cancer as well.

Medicinal herbs were used long before pharmacists began refining compounds into pill form for use against illness and disease. Midwives, medicine men and healers have cultivated herbs found in nature to heal sicknesses and reduce pain. In the garden or forest, plants provide a wealth of available healing sources for us. Many parts of the plant can be used and in many different ways, Leaves, flowers and roots can be dried, crushed into powder, made into a tea, eaten, pressed to extract oils and essences, or mixed with a base of oil to apply to the skin.

As we move further away from the local herbal lore that once healed people, we appreciate the advances of modern science, but we still desire the products of nature that we know are healthy, whole sources of healing. People are looking for organically grown, locally sourced and sustainable products to keep them well.

This ONE Herb Can Naturally Relieve a Headache (and May Even Fight Cancer)

Headaches can come in different forms but all of them are painful. There are tension, sinus, and migraine headaches. Headaches can give you a dull ache or a sharp, stabbing pain. Headaches can also cause other symptoms like ringing in the ears, blurry vision, seeing spots, dizziness, nausea and even vomiting.

Scientific evidence that this herb prevents and relieves a headache

In the garden, tiny white daisies with yellow centers and vivid green leaves and stems look delicate and pretty. These little flowers are called many names; Bachelor’s Buttons, Featherfew, Featherfoil, Flirtwort and most commonly, Feverfew. There are multiple different species of feverfew. The scientific names for this herb are in the parthenium strain; Chrysanthemum Parthenium, Pyrethrum Parthenium, and Tanacetum parthenium just to name a few.

The leaves of the feverfew plant are used to make the medicine that heals headaches. They can be used dried or fresh, and typically are packaged as capsules for headache remedy.

In a study of migraine headache patients who ate fresh leaves of feverfew daily as a way to prevent migraines, evidence was found that the herbal remedy was able to prevent attacks of migraine.

Another survey of 270 patients with migraine who treated themselves with fresh feverfew leaves, 70% of those who ate the leaves daily had reduced headache symptoms. The people who tried feverfew leaves said that it helped them either with shorter headaches or less frequent headaches or both.

Incredible evidence that this one herb can fight cancer

The ability of this delicate flower to help prevent or relieve headaches and to fight cancer is incredible. The medicinal herb feverfew has long been used as a folk remedy for the treatment of migraine and arthritis. Parthenolide is considered to be the primary bioactive compound in feverfew that has anti-migraine, anti-tumor, and anti-inflammatory properties.

In a study of feverfew and its ability to fight cancer, researchers determined that parthenolide and golden feverfew extract inhibited the growth of two human breast cancer cell types and one human cervical cancer cell type. They also found that feverfew ethanolic extract inhibited the growth of all three types of cancer cells that were tested.

Other medicinal uses for this herb

In herbal lore, feverfew was also used for reducing fever, hence the name of the plant. Here is a list of other health problems that WebMD lists that feverfew has been used for:

Irregular menstrual periods

Arthritis

Psoriasis

Allergies

Asthma

Ringing in the ears/tinnitus

Dizziness

Nausea

Vomiting

Infertility

Anemia

Cancer

Intestinal gas

Preventing miscarriage

Common cold

Earache

Liver disease

Muscle tension

Bone disorders

Swollen feet

Diarrhea

Insect repellant

Preparing fresh herbs and a warning for allergy sufferers

Allergies can be severe and those who are allergic to ragweed should avoid using feverfew. Unfortunately, the herb can bring on an allergic reaction for some people. Please check with your medical provider before working with herbs to check for interactions with anything else that you are currently taking.

As it is bitter in taste, most people using fresh feverfew combine it with honey to make it taste better. Typically, leaves from the feverfew plant are collected to equal one ounce of the plant then the leaves are crushed slightly with a mortar and pestle. Add 16 ounces of boiling water to the crushed leaves and allow the mixture to cool slightly. For headaches, drink 3-4oz of the liquid.

To make a tincture or extract of feverfew:

* Use a drinkable alcohol of at least 80 proof, like vodka or rum.

* Use a clean glass jar, such as a mason jar.

* Fill the jar at least halfway with dried feverfew leaves.

* Boil a small amount of water (2 ounces or so) and dampen the leaves slightly in the jar, but do not cover them with water.

* Fill the rest of the jar with the drinkable alcohol and seal it up tightly. Shake the jar and store it in a cool pantry or cupboard for 3 weeks.

* After 3 weeks, strain the herbs and save the liquid.

The liquid can be consumed directly by teaspoons or added to boiling water to evaporate the alcohol before drinking.

10 Life Lessons We Can Learn From Mother Teresa

February 21, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Mother Teresa may have passed on years ago, but her incredible love and wisdom still live on today. She shared many life lessons throughout her time on Earth, many of which centered around love, compassion, helping others, and maintaining humility. She embodied a wonderful example for all of us to follow – to simply love and give help to others without asking of either in return. We invite you to read over some of her most famous quotes that will hopefully inspire you to love more, give more, and help more.

Here are 10 life lessons we can learn from Mother Teresa:

1. Speak as little as possible about yourself

“These are the few ways we can practice humility: To speak as little as possible of one’s self. To mind one’s own business. Not to want to manage other people’s affairs. To avoid curiosity. To accept contradictions and correction cheerfully. To pass over the mistakes of others. To accept insults and injuries. To accept being slighted, forgotten and disliked. To be kind and gentle even under provocation. Never to stand on one’s dignity. To choose always the hardest.”

“If you are humble nothing will touch you, neither praise nor disgrace, because you know what you are.”

2. Keep busy with your own affairs, not those of others

“We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.”

“Live simply so others may simply live.”

“I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things.”

3. Avoid curiosity

“We need to find God, and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of silence. See how nature – trees, flowers, grass- grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence… We need silence to be able to touch souls.”

4. Accept small irritations with good humor

“People are unrealistic, illogical, and self-centered. Love them anyway.”

5. Do not dwell on the faults of others

“I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love.”

“Intense love does not measure; it just gives.”

“We think sometimes that poverty is only being hungry, naked and homeless. The poverty of being unwanted, unloved and uncared for is the greatest poverty. We must start in our own homes to remedy this kind of poverty.”

6. Accept censures even if unmerited

“I would rather make mistakes in kindness and compassion than work miracles in unkindness and hardness.”

7. Be courteous and delicate even when provoked

“Let us always meet each other with smile, for the smile is the beginning of love.”

“Spread love everywhere you go. Let no one ever come to you without leaving happier.”

“Love begins at home, and it is not how much we do… but how much love we put in that action.”

“If you judge people, you have no time to love them.”

“A life not lived for others is not a life.”

8. Do not seek to be admired or loved.

“If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.”

“At the end of life we will not be judged by how many diplomas we have received, how much money we have made, how many great things we have done. We will be judged by “I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat, I was naked and you clothed me. I was homeless, and you took me in.”

9. Do not protect yourself behind your own dignity

“One of the greatest diseases is to be nobody to anybody.”

“There must be a reason why some people can afford to live well. They must have worked for it. I only feel angry when I see waste. When I see people throwing away things that we could use.”

“Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”

“I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.”

10. Always choose the more difficult task

“Be faithful in small things because it is in them that your strength lies.”

“Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go.”

“Let us touch the dying, the poor, the lonely and the unwanted according to the graces we have received and let us not be ashamed or slow to do the humble work.”

“Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.”

8 Scientifically Proven Reasons to Eat Shiitake Mushrooms Every Day

February 21, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Sure shiitake mushrooms are savory and delicious, but now there are scientifically proven reasons to eat them every day. If you are one of the lucky people who ate shiitake mushrooms at breakfast this morning, you are well aware of the tasty reasons to eat them.

Shiitake mushrooms are one delicious variety of fungi that not only taste good, but that help heal your body. Let’s look further at the edible bounty of shiitake mushrooms and why science has proven that eating them every day is deliciously good for you.

8 Scientifically Proven Reasons to Eat Shiitake Mushrooms Every Day

A half cup of these particular shrooms only has 41 calories and packs the following nutritional daily values:

Copper 72%
Pantothenic acid 52%
Selenium 33%
Vitamin B2 9%
Zinc 9%
Manganese 8%
Vitamin B6 7%
Vitamin B3 7%
Choline 6%
Fiber 6%
Vitamin D 5%
Folate 4%

1. Science proves that shitake mushrooms can kill bacteria that cause disease.

Chitosan is a type of natural sugar that is found in a few foods, including the shells of crabs and the stems of shiitake mushrooms. The chitosan found in shiitake mushrooms has antimicrobial properties that kill bacteria.

One study found that chitosan from shiitake stems showed excellent antimicrobial activities against eight species of disease-causing bacteria. Scientists also discovered that shiitake chitosan was more effective at killing bacteria than the chitosan taken from crab shells.

2. Science has proven that shitake mushrooms can kill tumors

Keeping yourself cancer-free is certainly a great reason to eat mushrooms and the scientific research backs up this claim. The same study mentioned above also found that the chitosan in shiitake mushroom stems helped prevent tumors from spreading.

Chitosan can also be found in crab shells, but the researchers found that shiitake chitosan was better at stopping the spread of tumors than the chitosan taken from crab shells. Although we can’t say that shiitake mushrooms prevent cancer form occurring in the first place, reducing the spread of tumors is a great reason to add them to your meal plan every day.

3. Science has proven that shiitake mushrooms can reduce inflammation and improve immunity.

Yet another scientific study showed that eating whole dried shiitake mushrooms in a daily diet helped reduce the inflammation for 52 male and female study participants over 4 weeks. Scientists showed improved immune function for the people who ate the shrooms every day. Another incredible health benefit of shrooms is an improved immune response.

4. Science has proven that shiitake mushrooms can help fight obesity.

In a study of mice that were fed a diet of shiitake mushrooms, scientists showed that the mice that ate the mushrooms had much healthier body weights than those that did not. The shiitake-fed mice had reduced cholesterol and triglyceride levels and also had fewer fatty liver deposits.

The researchers say that supplementing diet with shiitake mushrooms could be a way to help control obesity in humans as well. Whether you suffer from a weight problem or not, adding this food to your diet is a way to add a healthy, high-nutrient, low calorie food that you will enjoy.

5. Science has proven that shiitake mushrooms can prevent insomnia.

Some scientists believe that Vitamin D deficiency is responsible for many of the chronic insomnia sufferers in the world. 100 grams of fresh shiitake mushrooms provide 100 IU of Vitamin D daily, which helps your body repair itself at night while you get restful sleep.

6. Science has proven that shiitake mushrooms can prevent autoimmune diseases.

Adding this fungus to your diet can decrease the risk of autoimmune diseases such as Crohn’s disease, fibromyalgia and arthritis. Shiitake naturally contain beta glucans, which are a type of natural sugar.

Beta-glucans have many health benefits, including protection from colds and flu.

Gaining resilience against autoimmune diseases and preventing the immune system from attacking the body is a scientifically proven reason to eat shiitake mushrooms every day.

7. Science has proven that shiitake mushrooms can improve overall nutrition in your diet.

Science has shown that those who have mushrooms in their diet are more likely to have a higher quality diet concerning total nutrient content than people who do not have mushrooms in their diet. Researchers analyzed and measured nine years of data on healthy eating for groups who either had mushrooms in their diets or did not. The mushroom-eating group surpassed the others for total vegetables, dark greens, and grains.

8. Science has proven that shiitake mushrooms can prevent and correct hypertension.

Researchers evaluating alternatives to high-blood pressure medication say that ‘Synthetic anti-hypertensive drugs have been blamed for side effects of various sorts. Thus, the search for natural, safe, and food-based anti-hypertensive agents has gained momentum. Mushrooms, abundant in bio-active components, had been recognized for its use as therapeutics in alternative and complementary medicine as well as functional food.’

Mushrooms contain terpenoids, peptides, lentinan, pipecolic acid, and potassium, which researchers have shown can prevent a high-cholesterol diet from causing high blood pressure. The compounds in shiitake mushrooms also have the potential to reverse hypertension for patients who prefer non-drug therapy.

5 Love Stories You Should Never Listen To

February 21, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Everyone adores a good love story…and if they don’t they should. Why are these love stories so treasured? Is it because we love drama and the bubbly feelings that love incites? A rhetorical question, of course, as to appreciate these movies requires such. There’s always that point in the plot where something happens that tests the connection between two people. Will they beat the odds and come together or will they bid each other farewell? (It’s almost always the former, isn’t it?

Give Hollywood this: they at least introduce a bit of conflict in the love story. Sure, some of the plot points are laughable at best but that’s for another discussion. Perhaps even more laughable (delusional?) than Hollywood’s scriptwriting is the script repeated by some other misguided people about love.

Romantic fairytales exist only in the movies. In reality, relationships can be difficult on a number of different levels. So why do people still tell lies about love – or, worse yet, believe them?

We’re here to do a bit of myth-busting, love story style.

Here are 5 stories you should never listen to:

Love Lie #1: “The One…”

Now, there may be one person you’ve met that is your soulmate (here are the signs). But it’s disingenuous to pretend that having millions of people out there don’t increase the odds of finding that one true love. If two people compliment and bring out the best in each other than that is a perfectly happy courtship. However, odds are that some envious third-party will chime in with “well, he/she found his/her one…when is it my turn?” In truth, there are plenty of viable options that, if discovered, would help to increase the odds of finding someone that fulfilled them.
In other words, true love is determined by compatibility, not exclusivity. There is no truth to the contrary.

Love Lie #2: “Sincerity will win her/him over…”

This is a love lie that is far too commonplace, especially in the “men seeking women” arena. Men are prone to turn up the sincerity dial, as they believe that an exceptional ability to be sincere is valued when courting women. On a limited scale, this is true. Women love when men hold the door open, pick up the check and compliment their dress. Women don’t love when men buy them jewelry on the first date, say “I love you” after a week and cry at every sad movie. They also don’t appreciate men without the ability to articulate their words without sounding like an uninhibited jerk.

The reason that unabashed sincerity doesn’t bode well is two-fold: (1) it reeks of disingenuousness, and (2) it bypasses flirting, an important part of the courting process.

Love Lie #3: “This initial spark means something…”

Yeah, it means that two people just met. Who hasn’t heard of the “honeymoon phase”? Also, two people are almost always going to have different perspectives on one another’s attractiveness or lack thereof. In other words, that “initial spark” means little else than some person is attractive in some way. It doesn’t mean they’re attracted to you or that there is any type of future.

The only real way to test the connection between two people is to court. In reality, attraction can be a dynamic thing; something that changes as two people begin to know each other.
But first, it’s probably best to go over and say “Hello.”

Love Lie #4: “It’s only been a day/week/month, but we’re meant for each other…”

Do we really need to cover this? At this phase, there is no way that any rational conclusion can be made about the long-term viability of a relationship. We already know that people are complex beings… so what makes us think that we can know them in a day, a week, a month, or even a year?

Yes, we all want to love and be loved. It’s a beautiful thing. But at the expense of exploring and uncovering more about someone else? That’s part of the fun. Why this intense desire to jump right to the finish line?
Explore the other person and savor the little things. There is no need to rush to judgment here, despite of our desire to settle. Even if the relationship doesn’t continue to bear fruit, they had a presence in your life for a period of time.

Love Lie #5: “Life will be a dream, as long as we’re together…”

The other person will probably make life seem more like a dream, and that’s great. Truth is, this one is difficult to criticize – not because it’s true, but because our ideal mate will always make us contemplate what’s possible.
It is true that anything is possible with two people that love and believe in each other. We’re all innately attuned to the fact that life will have its turbulent moments. We’re also aware that the other person makes these moments worth living and then some.

13 Toxic Things You Can Replace With Tea Tree Oil

February 20, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Tea tree oil has been used for centuries to treat several different conditions. Perhaps best known for its skin benefits, tree oil has strong anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. Further, tree oil has shown to be just as if not more effective in treating certain conditions than over-the-counter products and/or prescription medicines.

Here are 13 things you can throw away and replace with tea tree oil:

1. Acne medication

For those prone to breaking out, tree oil can be a great solution. As opposed to traditional chemical-laden skincare products, tree oil is also natural and nourishes the skin. Dilute a few drops of tree oil with 20 to 40 drops of witch hazel and apply to the skin once or twice daily.

Tree oil makes skin more sensitive to UV rays, so avoid long stretches of sun exposure.

2. Toxic nail chemicals

Combined with some other oils – jojoba, avocado, and lavender – tree oil is good for softening cracked nail cuticles.

Ingredients:

One tablespoon avocado oil
1 tablespoon jojoba oil
Ten drops of tea tree oil
Ten drops of lavender oil

First, combine the jojoba and avocado oils into a small, dark-colored bottle – this helps to preserve the oil beforehand if using the mixture later. When ready, simply add the other oils and shake the mixture to combine ingredients.

3. Chemical laden antiseptics

Tree oil is a natural and healthy antiseptic. It is also the perfect homemade wound ointment. For deeper cuts, it’s recommended to rinse the wound with a water and hydrogen peroxide mix before applying.

For an additional soothing effect, consider adding lavender oil. Apply the tree oil (and lavender, if desired) to a clean wound once or twice a day.

4. Toenail fungus medications

Tree oil is a potent yet healthy, anti-fungal substance. Some even state that tree oil is more effective at killing toenail fungus than traditionally prescribed anti-fungal medication.

Simply dab a cotton swab into undiluted tree oil and apply it to the affected once or twice a day.

5. Deodorant

Healthy, natural deodorant can be made using tree oil. In addition to tree oil’s other qualities, it is also an antimicrobial – it can kill or inhibit microorganism growth, including the ones that cause body odor.

To make this deodorant, you will need coconut oil and baking soda.

6. Psoriasis medication

Tree oil is effective in reducing the inflammation of the skin. As such, it can be a natural remedy for psoriasis and eczema.

Mix one teaspoon of coconut oil, five drops of tea tree oil, and five drops of lavender oil to create this healthy mixture.

7. Toxic shampoos

Tea tree oil has proven beneficial for hair and scalp health. The oil can heal flaked skin, remove dandruff, and even be used as a lice treatment.

To create a tree oil solution for hair, mix several drops of tea tree oil with aloe vera gel, coconut milk, and essential oils (if desired).

8. Toxic cleaning products

Because of tea tree oil’s antimicrobial properties, it’s also a perfect ingredient for a homemade household cleaning solution. Use it anywhere in the home – kitchen, shower, toilet, sinks, and countertops – to thoroughly clean.

Mix ½ cup of white vinegar, 3 cups of water and 10 drops of tea tree oil. For added scent, add essential oil.

9. Commercially prepared toothpaste

Naturally, tree oil’s anti-bacterial properties make for a great toothpaste ingredient. Combining this trait with tree oil’s ability to reduce inflammation makes it a terrific solution for reducing bleeding of the gums. It also helps to fight tooth decay.

There are a couple of recipes for making tree oil toothpaste, both of which you can find here.

10. Tea tree oil replaces makeup removers

Makeup remover. Although some readers do not need for it, this may grab our female reader’s collective attention.

Ingredients:

¼ cup canola oil
Ten drops of tea tree oil
Four oz. glass container

After pouring all ingredients into a sterilized glass container, seal it with a tight lid and then shake until blended. Make sure the mixture is stored in a cool, dark area.

11. Athlete’s foot medicine

Tree oil is a powerful solution for people who deal with the burning, scratching, and scaling of athlete’s foot. Add a few drops to a tablespoon of witch hazel and apply with a cotton swab twice daily.

12. Tea tree oil can replace yeast infection medicines

Some studies have shown that tea tree oil can interfere with the chemical makeup of yeast, which makes it ideal for treating this condition. When combined with lavender – which eliminates candida – yeast is effectively eliminated.

To make this cocktail, you’ll need a few drops of tea tree oil, a few drops of lavender oil, and a few drops of distilled water. Using a cotton swab, apply the mixture to the affected areas.

13. Tea tree oil can replace ear infection medications

Combining all of the essential properties of tree oil – as an antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral – it can greatly assist in alleviating ear infections. Also, the anti-inflammatory properties can help with the pain and irritation that surface when the ear is infected.

Ingredients:

Three drops of tea tree oil
Two tablespoons of olive oil
One teaspoon of colloidal silver
One teaspoon of apple cider vinegar

Combine all ingredients in a pan and place over low heat until warm. Fill a dropper with the solution. Lie on your side with the head on a towel and drip the solution into one ear. Allow five to ten minutes to pass, let the ear drain and then repeat. Do this three times a day for three days.

7 Ways to Attract Someone Who Adores You

February 20, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Who are the people in your life you adore and are inspired by? What is it about these individuals that stimulate your inspiration? Perhaps it’s a mother, father, sister, brother, grandparent; could be someone who is not related, or a romantic interest. Is it their humor, strength, intelligence, honesty, energy, resilience, or something else? You can probably think of at least one person that has influenced you in this way.

Have you ever thought about the parts of your personality that make you adorable? Your mind may be too distracted by the day-to-day processes of life, but the truth is, you do in fact possess the qualities that people adore and admire. You may have even already inspired someone with these qualities without knowing it.

Adoration is one of the strongest emotions, and it creates strong very strong feelings of attraction. By exhibiting these qualities, we can indeed create feelings of attraction and admiration in someone else.

You may already possess some of the following qualities, or you may not. Either way, it doesn’t mean you can’t develop qualities that attract someone who adores you. Here are 7 ways you can create that attraction and adoration from someone special:

7 ways to attract someone who adores you:

“True love is not a strong, fiery, impetuous passion. It is, on the contrary, an element calm and deep. It looks beyond mere externals, and is attracted by qualities alone, it is wise and discriminating, and its devotion is real and abiding.” – Ellen G. White

1. Be Yourself

Nothing is more attractive than someone who is comfortable with being their authentic self both alone and in public. Attracting someone by being someone other than your true self, your true self will eventually shine through, and could set you up for failure. Simply put, people realize, respect, and adore what makes you who you are.

We are all nothing more than an embodiment of pure love, and to create something outside of that only creates a temporary shell. Don’t be afraid of who you are, you’re absolutely, authentically beautiful

2. Be honest

Even the most uncomfortable honesty shows that you have confidence, and that is a very attractive feature. Being a dishonest person is a selfish, manipulative, and egocentric behavior.

There may be someone who disagrees with your unfiltered honesty. They may not demonstrate compassion, and may even act ignorant or judgmental. No matter how people react to your honesty, the truth is that you’ll attract the right people – those who adore you for being your authentic self.

Bottom line: be honest your actions. Anything else will not give you a desirable result in the long-term.

3. Have a sense of humor

Life can be very overwhelming sometimes, but a good sense of humor is a tremendous asset that causes attraction and adoration. For women, there’s a biological reason why they view humor necessary in their relationships.

In a study done at Stanford University, 22 children aged six to 13 were shown a series of video clips – some of which were funny and some not. The children were hooked up to an fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging machine) to measure their brain’s activity. The results were that girls showed more positive feelings and a sense of reward in response to humor than the boys did.

Bottom line: When you make people laugh, it’ll make a big difference

4. Practice selflessness

Being selfless in a selfish world isn’t easy for everyone. Selfless people change the world, and often carry the heaviest burden for the greater good. Selfless people continue to earn the respect and adoration of people worldwide.

In fact, some of the greatest leaders the world has ever seen like Jesus; Buddha; Ghandi; Mother Teresa; Nelson Mandela; Martin Luther King, Jr. – have all been some of the most selfless people we’ve ever known about.

Is selflessness one of your qualities? If not, it may be time to make an adjustment to your ends.

5. Be open-minded

We’re constantly evolving as a species, and along with it comes an evolved state of thinking that challenges the conventional norms that have been set into society in past years. Issues like marijuana use, global warming, armed conflicts, and so on are all being challenged with a new train of evolutionary thought.

Regardless of where you stand on any of the above issues, staying open-minded is essential in attracting someone who adores the authentic view you have. Challenging the conventional line of thought and opening your own perspective demonstrates intelligence and fluid thinking as well – two more traits that make people adore you

6. Be helpful

Have you ever met someone who only has time for themselves? How did that make you feel?

Most likely, you weren’t too attracted to that person. Being a helpful person is an incredible trait that this world desperately needs. Problems like poverty, hunger, and other social ills could be solved quickly if only more people would decide to use their time for others when they have it. Sometimes, two to three hours of your time can make a difference in the community.

If you don’t have the time, simply donate a few dollars where you can when you can. Many volunteer organizations in your community always look for help in any way they can get it.

7. Practice humility

Being around people who don’t assume and remain humble is most certainly one big fresh breath of air. Much of the western civilization and beyond has come to idolize boastful people that shout their own success from the rooftops. Unfortunately, many people have forgotten the adage of “Actions speak louder than words”.

The rare trait of being humble is an attractive quality far more authentic than being brash and domineering. Those who quietly and unpretentiously make the world a better place are truly adorable to many.

Humility is an attractive quality because it’s becoming increasingly rare. There will always be the crowd that idolizes the brash and domineering qualities of successful people. However – for us – true admiration and respect is best reserved for those who quietly and unpretentiously make the world a better place.

Join the discussion: How many of these traits do you have, or how many would you like to possess?

9 Things to Remember When You Feel Like Quitting

February 20, 2016 by Power of Positivity

To succeed, we must also remember what to do when we feel like we want to quit.

Success means different things to different people. For some, it means building relationships with people and making long-lasting connections. For others, it means climbing the corporate ladder and running a profitable company. And for the rest of us, maybe it just means doing our best each day with what we’ve been given, and making small steps every day toward our full potential.

Most of us have a hard time settling on just one thing we love to do every day. Sure, we all have jobs, but do they really serve our passion? Probably not. However, when it comes to living our dreams and serving our highest purpose, most of us get lost trying to find what that really is, and ultimately, we end up quitting.

What if you love the idea of something but haven’t really mastered the skill yet? For example, what if you absolutely live and breathe painting abstract pictures but feel like you have average talent levels? But what if you also have average marketing and communication skills? Couldn’t you combine all these “average” talents into something of a masterpiece?

This is what we’re getting at here – you can still find success even if you feel like you’ll never be successful, and we’ll explain this theory in more detail below.

Here are nine things to remember when you feel like quitting:

1. Remember the things you do well

Obviously, to succeed in life, you’ll need to focus on what you feel you can offer the world better than most others can. If you love to paint but don’t see the returns coming in financially, keep on working at it, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Maybe you could take some lessons to improve your skills; this way, you’ll feel more confident selling your work to people because you’ve further developed your talents.

2. Remember a list of things you can improve on

So, maybe you have excellent communication and marketing skills, but the actual service or product you’d offer others needs some work. So, the strategy you’d want to follow in this case is to put the things you do well on the back burner for now and focus all your attention on improving your weaknesses. You don’t need to be the absolute best at one thing; you can have average skills at many things, but combined, they can be a powerhouse.

3. Don’t sell yourself short

Most importantly, don’t assume that you can’t make something of yourself because you aren’t Einstein or Picasso in this life. Not to mention, comparing yourself to others won’t get you anywhere. It’s important to lift yourself and see yourself positively if you ever want to succeed.

4. Keep a positive attitude

Also, don’t let complaining and negative thoughts creep into your brain and steal your happiness. Remember, your attitude and energy attract like energy, so if you put out positive vibes into the world, they will return to you. And, of course, the opposite is true as well. In keeping a positive attitude, success will more easily come your way. Think about it: what successful person in history do you know had a negative attitude about themselves or life in general? Let us know if you can think of any, because we’re drawing a blank here.

5. Have encouraging friends

Just as important as having a great relationship with yourself, you must surround yourself with people who will uplift and motivate you. Don’t keep friends around who complain and drain you of energy – they will distract and discourage you from your own goals and drive for success. According to renowned businessman Jim Rohn, “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” Meaning, you become like who you hang around. So, surround yourself with people who inspire you and who you’d like to emulate if you’d like to reach success.

6. Stop beating yourself up over supposed shortcomings

As we said before, don’t sell yourself short. Believe in yourself, focus on your strengths, improve upon your weaknesses, and realize that we all don’t really know what we’re doing here. We’re just winging it, and doing the best we can. You have just as much opportunity and potential as anyone else to achieve your goals, so remember this next time you feel discouraged about your dreams.

7. Don’t give up

Also, you might jump through thousands of hurdles before you achieve success. The difference between those that are successful and those that aren’t is that one group didn’t give up. Successful people don’t have more intelligence, money, possessions, or anything else that sets them apart from others most of the time – they have incredible drive and perseverance. No matter what you want, keep jumping those hurdles until you’ve gotten where you want to be.

8. Remember that you can always learn something new

Don’t get stuck in the trap of thinking you can’t ever learn something new. All it takes is the willingness and a little dedication to learning new skills. Suppose you want to improve at painting, drawing, writing, or anything else. In that case, you can always take classes, search for a respected leader in the field you’re interested in for some advice or counseling, or even watch YouTube videos or other online mediums to acquire new knowledge.

9. Get rid of negative influences

Finally, stop surrounding yourself with negative people. They will only bring you down, discourage you from your dreams, and infect you with negative energy. Don’t be afraid to cut ties with those who don’t share the same vision as you.

Here’s How Flotation Tanks Reduce Stress and Clear Your Mind

February 20, 2016 by Power of Positivity

If you’ve been looking for a new way to meditate, you’ll want to consider flotation tank therapy. What is it? Picture this: you’re floating blissfully in a room filled with salt water, in total darkness devoid of sound. All you can hear is the sound of your own heartbeat and your breathing. The water temperature perfectly matches your skin temperature. This accuracy adds to the experience by tricking your mind into not knowing where your body ends, and the water begins.

At first, this idea might seem scary: shut yourself off from the outside world and experience complete relaxation. But, after a few minutes, your body and mind will get used to the new environment. So soon, you will slip away into a deep meditative state that you might not have been able to reach during “normal” meditation due to outside stimuli.

Still skeptical? Consider this 1997 analysis of 1,000 descriptions of sensory deprivation. According to the participants, over 90% found the experience deeply relaxing. But, what exactly makes this relaxing, and how can it help you reduce stress and clear your mind? Read on to find out.

Here’s how flotation tanks can help you reduce stress and clear your mind:

Image Credit: StillPointWell.com

Dr. John C. Lilly, a researcher and neurophysiologist working for the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in the 1950’s, was interested in studying the brain/mind and the origins of consciousness. He developed the floatation tank as a way to isolate external stimulation from the mind and measure the effects of this isolation.

While the idea of flotation therapy has been around for about a half century, it’s just now gaining traction with the general public due to the piqued interest in meditation and mindfulness. In addition to the relaxation that comes from being enclosed in a soundproof, pitch black room, the Epsom salt adds even more benefits to the experience. According to the Epsom Salt Council, applying the salt to the skin can help you to maintain adequate magnesium levels, since Epsom salt is high in magnesium, improve heart rate and blood circulation, lower blood pressure, relieve stress, improve nerve function, flush toxins from the body, and much more.

A Flotation Therapy Study

As far as the sensory deprivation aspect of flotation therapy, many studies have proven the benefits of immersing yourself in total silence for a short period of time. Our world today is far too noisy and hectic. Our bodies and minds still haven’t learned to adjust to modern living from an evolutionary standpoint fully. So, with that in mind, you can imagine how closing yourself off from the world and simply floating in a quiet room can help with stress and mental clarity.

According to a popular flotation therapy spa, Still Point Wellness in Asheville, North Carolina:

“Supported and held by a half TON of epsom salts, you’ll effortlessly connect with your body’s natural deep relaxation response. Skin temperature water and fresh oxygen makes our state-of-the-art float chamber an ideal environment to safely explore the connection between your mind and body. People who float regularly report a deeper understanding and the ability to transform stressful patterns, habits and beliefs into new strategies for success and happiness.”

Flotation therapy works because the brain doesn’t have to worry about processing visual stimuli. The brain starts to create its own without external stimuli, which can spark creativity and enhance cognitive function. In 2000, one study found that volunteers’ visual cortexes were far more active after just an hour of sensory deprivation..

Another study involving 40 university students proved the theory of higher creativity after a flotation experience, as their standardized test scores increased with just an hour of sensory deprivation.

Also, flotation tank therapy could help you acquire new skills in a shorter amount of time and boost memory. Research shows that during resting states, the brain continuously goes over newly learned skills and compartmentalizes these ideas for long-term use.

Reduced Anxiety and Stress

Probably most importantly, flotation tank therapy can relieve stress and anxiety. Besides stress, this outomce can positively affect the following conditions:

Blood pressure
Heart rate
Cortisol levels
Brain fog

In the early 1980s, several psychologists at the Medical College of Ohio performed a series of experiments that analyzed the physiological responses to Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy, or REST. Looking at many flotation sessions, the researchers found that blood pressure and stress-related hormones dropped. That effect lasted long after the participant’s flotation experience. In 2005, a meta-analysis further confirmed that flotation reduced stress more effectively than other popular methods such as relaxation exercises, biofeedback or relaxing on the couch.

Final Thoughts on Flotation Therapy

After seeing positive results from these studies, researchers wanted to see whether flotation could help patients with stress-related disorders. Flotation tank therapy was used as the primary treatment for disorders such as hypertension, headaches, insomnia and rheumatoid arthritis; these studies showed positive effects in small sample sizes. Those suffering from severe chronic pain benefited from weekly REST sessions as well. Their pain levels decreased, sleep improved dramatically, and they reported feeling more vibrant and less anxious.

So, if you haven’t tried flotation tank therapy yet. We want you to experience all the amazing benefits!

This Fruit Is The Most Powerful Antioxidant Food For Your Immune System

February 19, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Now, I’m sure you know that most fruits contain a wide variety of beneficial nutrients for our bodies, but have you heard about the amazing guava fruit?

This fruit recently became known as “the ultimate superfood,” because of both its medicinal and nutritional benefits. Guavas grow in Mexico, Central, and South America, and have a tangy, sweet, tropical flavor. It contains copious amounts of antioxidants and vitamins, and the skin can even be used in cooking and baking. The leaves, seeds and skin can also be consumed or used for medicinal purposes.

Because guavas are both low in calories and contain many important vitamins and minerals for the human body, it easily deserves the title “The Ultimate Superfood,” in our opinion. Below, we’ll tell you a little bit more about why you should consider buying guavas at your local grocer and making them a staple in your diet.

Here’s why guava is the most powerful antioxidant food for your immune system:

According to the USDA, 100 grams of guava fruit contain the following nutrients:

68 calories
14.3 grams carbohydrate
2.6 grams protein
228.3 milligrams vitamin C (381 percent DV)
5.2 milligrams lycopene ( 52 percent DV)
5.4 grams fiber (21.6 percent DV)
624 IU vitamin A (12.5 percent DV)
49 microgram folate (12.3 percent DV)
0.2 milligram copper (11.5 percent DV)
417 milligrams potassium (8.8 percent DV)
22 milligrams magnesium (5.5 percent DV)
40 milligrams phosphorus (4 percent DV)

As you can see, you can get many essential vitamins and minerals from this fruit alone. You can also eat it raw, making it a quick and easy snack on the go. In ancient cultures, they would use the leaves from the guava fruit to make healing, medicinal tea to cure a variety of ailments. However, most people eat the fruit raw, so below, we’ll go over some important benefits from eating this fruit loaded with antioxidants.

It boosts the immune system

Because guava provides over 350% of the recommended daily value of Vitamin C, it can repair the immune system and keep it functioning properly. Vitamin C has long been associated with a healthy immune system, so getting in your daily recommended amount is crucial in keeping illnesses at bay. Guava fruits provide even more Vitamin C than an equal serving of oranges, quite surprisingly. Vitamin C helps stop cell damage because of its antioxidants, so it can even help heal arthritis, cancer, and heart disease. This study in Pakistan in 2012 revealed that guavas had the highest concentration of Vitamin C, making it a powerful healing food that you should definitely add to your diet.

Guava contains more antioxidants than almost any other fruit

As we mentioned earlier, the antioxidants in the guava fruit pack a powerful punch. A 2011 study by Hyderabad’s National Institute of Nutrition in India revealed that guavas had the most antioxidants when compared to other Indian fruits such as apples, bananas, and grapes. Antioxidants prevent free radicals from forming and damaging cells, so humans need to get plenty of antioxidants in their diet. The study recommends eating unripe guavas, as these have the most antioxidants.

It can prevent cancer

Just as we said above, the antioxidants present in guavas can help reduce free radicals in the blood. Thus, they may reduce the risk of developing cancer. Guavas contain high amounts of lycopene, an antioxidant known for preventing cancer. Although this antioxidant is more well-known in association with tomatoes, guavas have a considerable amount of this powerful cancer blocker, and it can prevent growth of many types of cancer cells.

If that’s not enough, this study recently found that guava fruits can also help keep strokes at bay.

Guava contains a high amount of both potassium and fiber

As you might already know, potassium and fiber are crucial in keeping our electrolytes stable, maintaining low blood pressure, and preventing digestive diseases. This study found that potassium in guava fruits can decrease both blood pressure and blood lipids. Potassium also keeps the heart functioning properly, lowers the risk of strokes and kidney stones, and helps to prevent bone loss.

Because guava fruits contain over 20% of the daily recommended value of fiber, they can help you stay full longer, which aids in promoting weight loss. Also, having a high-fiber diet can decrease the risk of numerous diseases, including diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and much more.

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