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7 Signs You Have A B12 Deficiency

February 13, 2016 by Chris Butler

You try to eat right and get all of your vitamins and minerals from whole, fresh foods. But vitamin deficiencies can show up as physical symptoms, despite our best efforts to eat right.

We intake vitamins and nutrients from our food as part of our digestion process. Unlike vitamin D, which can be produced by our bodies, B-12 comes only from outside sources into the body. B12 is an essential nutrient that your body uses to produce red blood cells, DNA, and nerves.

B12 and Vegans

Unlike many vitamins, B-12 is not often found in plants. As a result, strict vegans or vegetarians are the most susceptible to B-12 deficiency. One solution is to use fortified products such as fortified soy or nut milk.

Microorganisms like bacteria and fungi can produce B-12. Since bacteria can be found in the soil, foods that come from the soil can have small levels of B-12. If you are scrubbing your vegetables too much, you could be removing this good bacteria.

Foods naturally containing small amounts of B-12 include mushrooms and fermented foods like tempeh. Nori, a type of toasted seaweed, will also give you a B-12 boost. Nutritional yeast can also provide a source of B-12 for vegetarians. Ovo-lacto vegetarians should get enough B-12 from eggs, milk and yogurt. You can check the foods you eat for their B-12 levels in this chart.

A Shot of B12

You may have heard about B-12 injections for increased energy or weight loss. The science behind the effectiveness of these claims is lacking. Basically, taking a single vitamin and expecting to lose weight or triple your energy level is unrealistic.

Should You Supplement?

B-12 supplements come in either liquid or capsule form. You may also see this called cobalamin. If you avoid meat, eggs and dairy, you might be a good candidate for a B-12 supplement.

People who are at risk for B-12 deficiency include the elderly, those with HIV, people who have had weight loss surgery, and people with certain digestive disorders, such as Crohn’s disease, who have difficulty absorbing nutrients.

Pregnant or lactating women have a higher daily requirement for B-12. Due to the need to nourish your child, higher levels of B-12 are usually recommended. Your physician can tell you the right about for you and your baby.

Your diet should give you enough B-12 to avoid health problems, but if you are concerned, ask your doctor for a blood test to check your levels. A good doctor will also be able to recommend a supplement to meet your needs if you are showing signs of B-12 deficiency.

Why B12 is Important

You don’t need much. In fact, the fact the daily requirement for B12 is the lowest of all of the B vitamins. Most adults need only 2.4 micrograms per day. But it is important in many bodily functions. Deficiencies in B-12 can lead to severe health problems.

An extreme deficiency of B-12 can contribute to cardiovascular disease, anemia, stroke, memory loss, incontinence, paranoia, depression and other serious health problems. By knowing the signs of a B-12 deficiency, you can take action to reverse any negative health effects.

Here Are 7 Key Warning Signs of a B12 Deficiency

If you have any of these symptoms, ask your doctor to do a blood test.

1. Fatigue

Feeling tired? B-12 is important for aerobic energy in the body. Without enough of this vitamin, our bodies are not getting the oxygen and energy that we need. Lightheadedness is also a sign that you aren’t getting enough B-12.

2. Tingling and Numbness

Losing sensation in hands and feet along with the tingling sensation of pins and needles, could be a sign of a B-12 deficiency. Check with your doctor for blood work to determine the cause.

3. Joint Pain

Severe joint pain that isn’t due to injury or chronic inflammation, like arthritis, could cause alarm. Also, slower reflexes have been observed in B12 deficient patients.

4. Rapid Heartbeat or Breathing

Shortness of breath, heart palpitations, and a rapid heartbeat have all been associated with B12 deficiency. If in doubt, get it checked out.

5. Weakness

In one case study of severe B-12 deficiency, a man had trouble walking due to the weakness that he experienced. In addition to muscle weakness, balance problems and staggering could indicate a problem.

6. Jaundice

Jaundice is a yellowing of skin or whites of the eyes and can indicate several serious medical problems.

7. Swollen tongue

Some patients with B12 deficiency experience an inflammation of the tongue. Other signs related to the mouth include a smooth tongue and a decreased sense of taste.

Seek the attention of your wellness professional if you experience any of these seven signs of B12 deficiency. A doctor can diagnose your deficiency with a simple blood test. Knowing the sources of B12 can help you ensure that you and your family are getting enough and will help prevent potentially serious medical complications.

How much vitamin B12 should you consume daily?

Vitamin B12 keeps your blood and nerve cells healthy and functioning properly, making DNA the genetic material of all your body’s cells. It also prevents anemia, a condition that makes you feel weak and tired. If you’re unsure how much vitamin B12 you should consume, here is a chart to help you.

Age	Male	Female	Pregnant	Lactation
Birth to 6 months	0.4mcg	0.4mcg
7 to 12 months	0.5 mcg	0.5mcg
1 to 3 years	0.9 mcg	0.9mcg
4 to 8 years	1.2 mcg	1.2 mcg
14-18 years	2.4 mcg	2.4 mcg	2.6 mcg	2.8 mcg
19+	2.4 mcg	2.4 mcg	2.6mcg	2.8mcg

Certain groups of people don’t get enough B12 because their bodies don’t absorb it properly. These include the following:

Older adults: As you age, you lose the hydrochloric acid in your stomach that helps you absorb vitamin B12 from your food. If you’re over 50, try to consume foods high in vitamin B12. You can try a supplement, but these aren’t always the most effective way to increase your B12.
Individuals with autoimmune diseases also have too little hydrochloric acid, making it difficult for them to absorb B12.
Individuals with pernicious anemia: If you have this condition, your healthcare provider may suggest getting B12 shots for the best absorption.
People who have had stomach surgery: If you’ve had stomach surgery, for instance, to lose weight, you need extra vitamin B12.
People with disorders such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease
Vegans: If you’re on a strict diet with no animal products, you’ll likely need to take Vitamin B12 supplements plus increase foods that contain it.

What Foods Are Best to Beat a B12 Deficiency?

Vitamin B12 is found naturally in animals such as fresh fish, meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products. They fortify certain foods with B vitamins to enhance health. Food that is naturally high in vitamin B12 includes these:

Dairy products
Eggs
Fortified cereals
Fish
Poultry
Beef
Shellfish
Nutritional yeast
Fortified non-dairy milk

What Are the Effects of Vitamin B12?

Here are several things doctors know about this vitamin and its effect on your body.

May help fight cancer: Recent studies show there is growing evidence that B12 and other B vitamins can protect you from certain cancers. The research continues how this happens, but it’s known that B vitamins affect your cell’s function and regulate your immune functions.
Help fight heart disease: Vitamin B12 reduces blood levels of homocysteine which have been linked to increased risk for certain conditions such as heart attacks and strokes. Even with this proof, it’s not clear whether B12 vitamins can reduce your risk of developing heart problems or having a stroke.
May help fight dementia: B vitamins may help reduce your risk of getting dementia, but the results have been inconsistent.
Energy: Adequate amounts of B12 from the foods you eat can help you maintain your energy levels.

Final Thoughts on Beating a B12 Deficiency

Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin you need for your body. If you notice any of these 7 signs, be sure to talk with your health care provider. They can do tests to determine if you are low in B12. Eating foods that are high in B12 should be enough for you to maintain a healthy level of this vitamin. But, there are certain groups of people who don’t absorb vitamin B12. If you’re in one of these groups, you’ll need a supplement or B12 shots.

What Does Your Valentine’s Day Card Reveal About You?

February 12, 2016 by Power of Positivity

People shell out big bucks for Valentine’s Day gifts, one of the most popular being a sweet, romantic card for someone special.

According to an article on CNN.com, people exchange 151 million cards on Valentine’s Day, but this number has likely risen in the past few years. You can choose from a wide variety of greeting cards for this romantic holiday, and the type of card you choose says more about your personality than you would think.

When it comes to selecting a Valentine’s Day card, the choice can reveal quite a bit about your personality. Some individuals may gravitate toward whimsical, humorous cards that showcase their playful side, while others might prefer heartfelt, sentimental messages that express deep emotion and sincerity. These choices reflect the values and traits they prioritize in relationships. Understanding your personality can help you choose a card that resonates not only with your feelings but also with the recipient’s preferences, fostering a deeper connection.

Diving into personality types, the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) offers insight into how different individuals express love and affection. For instance, extroverted types may enjoy bold and expressive cards that capture their vibrant energy, while introverted types might appreciate more understated, thoughtful designs. By exploring your MBTI type on websites like personality-type.com, you can gain clarity on how your personality influences your romantic gestures.

Additionally, considering personality pairing can enhance the meaning behind your card selection. For example, if you’re an ENFP who thrives on spontaneity and excitement, pairing with an ISFJ who values stability and tradition can lead to thoughtful card choices that honor both partners’ traits. This understanding can help you find the right balance between fun and sentimentality, ensuring your card reflects the unique dynamics of your relationship.

Valentine’s Day gifts come in all shapes and sizes, reflecting the diverse ways people express their love and appreciation. Beyond traditional cards, gifts range from classic chocolates and flowers to more personalized gestures that speak directly to the recipient’s interests and preferences.

For those looking to add a touch of creativity and intimacy, options like custom panties can make a memorable statement. These personalized gifts not only showcase thoughtfulness but also create a unique connection between partners, emphasizing individuality and shared moments.

Whether opting for a heartfelt card or a personalized gift, the choice reflects not just the occasion but also the giver’s personality and the bond they share with their Valentine.

So, what does your Valentine’s Day card reveal about your personality?

Cartoon Animal Card

Animals can convey feelings that we can’t quite express. For example, a cute, cuddly bear or chipmunk can tell your lover that you absolutely adore them (and think they’re adorable, as well). While a cartoon animal card might seem a bit childish, the idea behind it is that the cute creature on the front will tell your lover all they need to know about your feelings before they even open the card. You don’t hold back your feelings and want your partner to know exactly what you feel in your heart.

Poetic Card

If you buy a card with a poem inside, this says that you have great patience. It also reveals that you choose words carefully and don’t just pick any old card off the shelf for your lover. You spend a long time finding the card that says exactly how you feel about your lover, and it shows. You also are extremely romantic, and might even choose to write out a poem yourself instead of buying a pre-made card.

Elaborate Card

Buying a card with lots of decorations, ribbons, glitter, and the whole shebang usually means you hold back with sharing your feelings. You’d rather catch your lover’s eyes with the aesthetics of the card rather than the words themselves; however, this doesn’t mean you don’t care about him or her. It just means you show love and affection in a different way, and don’t need to buy an over-the-top, mushy card to explain how much you care.

Blank Card

You don’t want to buy a card with a scripted message that someone possibly thousands of miles away wrote for Hallmark. Instead, you want to express in your own words how you feel, because it makes it much more personalized and special. You like to follow your own path, and probably have a knack for expressing your emotions on paper.

Cupid Card

While Cupid does convey love and affection, the symbol has been greatly overused, so your lover might think you don’t really care to tell them how you feel. A card with Cupid on it typically has a generalized message, so if you buy this card for your Valentine, tell them in some other way that they hold a special place in your heart.

Nature Card

A Valentine’s Day card with nature pictures shows that you appreciate simplicity and beauty. You don’t need to pour your heart out to your lover or show them through grandiose gestures how you truly feel. These cards usually have a short sentence or two inside, but that’s enough for you to express what’s in your heart. Your lover will likely have a great connection with nature for you to pick this type of card.

“Just Words” Card

You don’t want distractions – the frilly bows, glitter, big hearts, and Cupid pictures. You just cut right to the chase and don’t hold back. On the other hand, you probably are a bit mysterious, letting your lover figure out how the text within the card applies to your relationship. You might pick a simple card with just a few words, which allows your partner to use their imagination to fill in the blanks.

Singing Card

You have an outgoing, friendly personality. You probably like talking more than writing, so choose a card that sings how you feel about your lover rather than just using written words to convey emotions.

Humorous Card

You don’t like overly sappy, cheesy cards. You use humor to express your emotions, not to cover them up or deflect them. Humorous cards appeal to those with a lighter, less serious approach to life. Not to say one outlook is worse or better than another, but you gravitate towards cards that take the pressure off a little bit, and can express emotions without going overboard.

eCard

If you’re a busy person, emails can be the way to go for telling your lover how you feel. Maybe you don’t have time to write out a lengthy message on a card, so sending a cute, sentimental Ecard can still make him or her feel just as special. You probably also like to surprise people, and your lover will enjoy getting an email from their special guy or gal in the middle of the workday.

The Tragic And Uplifting Story of Sylvester Stallone Revealed

February 11, 2016 by Power of Positivity

To say that Sylvester Stallone has had a difficult life would be an understatement of immense proportions. Of all the touching and inspiring “rags to riches” stories, Stallone’s own story has to be right near the top.

Many know Stallone from his brilliant portrayal of a small-time boxer in the multi award-winning film Rocky, where a down-and-out Rocky Balboa struggles to survive on the mean streets of Philadelphia. To make a living, Balboa works as a loan shark’s enforcer and small-time fighter, managing to just get by.

Stallone’s character ultimately overcomes tremendous odds to become the heavyweight champion of the world. While there are various takes on where the inspiration for the movie comes from, it’s not far-fetched to believe Stallone, the lone writer of the movie’s script, incorporated a manifestation of some of his own struggles into the film.

I am not the richest, smartest or most talented person in the world. But I succeed because I keep going and going and going. – Sylvester ‘Sly’ Stallone

To understand Stallone’s relentless drive, it is necessary to examine the uplifting story of the Oscar-winning actor’s background.

The Tragic and Uplifting Story of Sylvester Stallone Revealed

Stallone’s struggles literally began at birth. Complications during labor resulted in partial paralysis of his left face, including parts of his chin, lip, and tongue. As a result of these complications, Stallone was left with his notorious snarling look and slurred manner of speaking.

Growing up in New York’s ‘Hell’s Kitchen,’ a name derived from the neighborhood’s poor and violent nature, Stallone dealt with the constant fighting between his mother and father. As he bounced around from house to house, Stallone was incessantly victimized because of his odd appearance and difficulty speaking. He received multiple suspensions from school, a result of poor grades, frequent fights and behavioral issues.

Fast-forwarding to Stallone’s young-adult life, constant financial problems resulted in Stallone being evicted from his apartment. Homeless for three weeks, the actor was desperate for money, which resulted in him accepting a part in a soft-core pornography film. For his work, he received just $200 for over two days of filming; according to Stallone: “It was either do that movie or rob someone, because I was at the end, the very end of my rope.”

After a brief stint in college, Stallone decided to move to New York to pursue an acting career. Auditioning for role after role, he constantly faced rejection from one casting crew after another. Effectively disenfranchised by casting agents, Stallone decided to delve into scriptwriting.

Eventually, Stallone ended up broke once again. Out of desperation, Stallone heartbreakingly sold his beloved dog for just $50. Devastated, Stallone somehow found the wherewithal to continue on. At this point, most would realize the need to find a job, any job that would provide some semblance of hope in destitution.

However, this was not Stallone’s mindset. He somehow steeled his resolve and continued to look for work, once again auditioning for multiple roles in whatever casting call he could find. Despite of his valiant efforts, Stallone continued to face constant rejection.

After continuously walking the frigid streets of New York, Stallone wandered into a local library to warm up. Browsing the library’s shelves, he once again found the inspiration to write screenplay. To buttress his writing efforts and refine his style, Stallone implemented various works of many famous authors. Through these books, Stallone once again found much-needed motivation to venture forth despite his circumstances.

In 1975, after watching the Muhammad Ali and Chuck Wepner fight, Stallone began to form an idea for a screenplay. Using this idea and an unprecedented surge of motivation, he wrote the script for Rocky in just three days.

With his script in-hand, Stallone proposed the idea to multiple producers. All he received after numerous months of pitching the idea was more rejection. Pressing on, Stallone eventually found one director that embraced the idea, Robert Chertoff, who would ultimately produce multiple award-winning films, including Raging Bull.

However, the studio that accepted the script, United Artists, was adamant in finding an A-list actor to play the role of Rocky Balboa. Needless to say, Stallone detested the idea of someone else starring in a role that he tirelessly created. Despite their incessant reluctance, the directors eventually signed off on Stallone playing the character of Rocky.

With Stallone being cast as the lead character, United Artists deemed it necessary to hedge the film against potential losses in ticket sales. Eventually, executives of the studio decided that the anticipated blockbuster film New York, New York would cover any losses. Ironically, Rocky would serve as the hedge film, covering the other film’s disappointing ticket revenue.

Rocky was given a miniscule $1 million budget, forcing the movie to accelerate production. This was made more difficult from injuries sustained by both Stallone and Carl Weathers (who played Apollo Creed) during a fight scene.

Despite of these setbacks, Rocky managed to complete filming in just 28 days.

In its opening weekend, the film grossed over $5 million. When final ticket sales were counted, Rocky had produced $117 million at North American box offices. Overseas, international showings accounted for over $107 million in ticket revenue. Total ticket sales yielded a return of over 11,000% of the film’s budget. Rocky was the highest-grossing film of 1976 in the United States.

What did this mean for Sylvester Stallone?

Well, he was nominated for Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay at the 49^th Academy Awards – only the third man in history to be nominated for both awards in the same film. In 2015, the movie Creed – the last sequel of Rocky – would result in Stallone’s first Golden Globe award and third Academy Award nomination.

Today, Stallone has a net worth in excess of over $400 million and has appeared in more than 50 films, starring in most of them.

“No one likes to fail at anything,” Stallone says “but I believe I’m a better person for it. I learned life’s lessons. You’re given certain gifts and that’s what you should try to be.”

Well said, Sly…and very well done.

5 Warning Signs of Early Vision Loss

February 11, 2016 by Power of Positivity

According to Prevent Blindness America, twice as many people will be blind in 2030 as there are today. The projections are based on estimates of self-reported vision impairment from The Lighthouse National Survey on Vision Loss. – Sightconnection.org

The prospect of losing one’s vision is an admittedly frightening one. However, unlike many other health conditions, eyesight tends to worsen quite gradually. Many people that end up in the optometrist’s office recognize that their worsening vision has become a frustrating physical barrier – and one that affects their ability to enjoy life.

While many eye-related conditions are not a serious detriment to one’s health, it’s still important to err on the side of caution when a loss of vision is noticed. Most eye care experts recommend having a comprehensive eye exam every year or two and check treatments like translational research MSC to see if you need them in your eyes.

Here are five early signs of vision loss

Worsening vision can be very subtle, almost to the point that it’s barely noticeable. That said, there are still signs to be aware of. Of course, if detected, a trip to the eye doctor should be in order.

Poor vision reveals many health issues.

1. Vision is repeatedly clear/fuzzy/clear/fuzzy

Not only is intermittent visual acuity frustrating, but it can also be a sign of an underlying condition. A chronic disease – such as Type 2 diabetes – is a potential culprit. High blood pressure is also possible, as both states restrict and ultimately damage the retina’s blood vessels and create vision loss.

If noticing such symptoms, it’s necessary to schedule a doctor visit. Diabetes and high blood pressure are severe health conditions. Thus, it is paramount that your eye doctor makes a diagnosis to mitigate collateral health problems.

As for inconsistent vision patterns, attempt to pay attention to when it occurs. Some people complain that performing specific tasks – reading, writing, knitting, etc. – is when such patterns are more easily recognizable. It’s important to understand that the longer this continues without medical intervention, the more serious the health consequences.

2. Blurred central vision

Often appearing as a dark or empty patch, this could be a symptom of macular degeneration. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the most prolific cause of vision loss in people over 50. The root cause of AMD is physical changes to the retina (macula) that directly affects visual acuity.

One way to check for AMD is to look at any straight line. If the line appears wavy, macular degeneration is a strong possibility. In addition, those diagnosed with AMD often complain of difficulties with reading signs and performing tasks that require near-sighted vision.

Schedule an eye exam right away to determine the root cause. Some forms of macular degeneration can be treated, though such variations are rare.

3. Fading or yellowing of colors

When the lens of one or both eyes is obstructed, colors can appear to fade or take on a yellowish tint. Such symptoms can result from cataracts – a “clouding” of the usually transparent lens of the eye. Those with cataracts often compare their vision to looking through a fogged-up window. Unfortunately, cataracts are also a common condition – by age 80, more than half of all Americans will have cataracts or have undergone surgery to correct them.

As with many eye conditions, cataracts tend to worsen gradually. This is because small portions of protein bind together and attach to the retina – this results in images losing their sharpness. At later stages, the lens takes on a brownish/yellowish tint rather than a clear one. Again, cataracts are treatable, so please seek out an eye doctor.

Other symptoms of cataracts are decreased night vision, sensitivity to light, seeing “halos” around lights, and double vision.

4. Eyelids appear irregular

This particular sign, though not on or in the eye, can create visual distortions. Though there are a few different possible root causes, one of them is skin cancer. Tissue areas around the eyes are very delicate, making these areas especially prone to initial signs of cancer. Different strains of carcinomas can alter the typical appearance of a person’s eyelids, which makes it imperative that medical guidance is sought.

Generally, if skin cancer is indeed the underlying cause, these cases are very rarely fatal. However, severe visual problems – even blindness – can result if not treated. As such, please see a doctor if one or both eyelids appear irregular.

5. Flashes of light or debris in vision

This is the only sign that is of a sudden (and very noticeable) nature. When seeing sudden “debris” in the field of vision – spots, flashes, strings, etc. – it could precede retinal detachment. While this certainly sounds painful, there’s no pain at all. Yet, retinal detachment is an emergency and one that requires surgery.

Getting down to the physiological aspects, retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from a nourishing bed of oxygen and blood vessels. If it sounds terrible, that’s because it is. The longer one goes without surgical intervention, the longer the retina is deprived of oxygen necessary to sustain normal function. In worst cases, vision loss is possible without the appropriate care.

Eliminating This ONE Ingredient Can Completely Clear Your Skin

February 11, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Even when you’re confident, having skin that is completely clear and healthy-looking can give you that one extra ingredient that can help you be successful. Clean, clear skin is a sign of good hygiene and good health.

If you’re working to improve your skin’s appearance from the outside in with creams and cleansers, try flipping your approach. Making yourself beautiful from the inside out is even better for your whole body, which includes completely clear skin.

An entirely balanced diet that’s full of healthy grains and plants is going to provide the right ingredients for our physical health. Most of us know this, but even by eating healthy you may have accidentally overlooked one ingredient that is keeping your skin from being completely clear.

Eliminating This ONE Ingredient Can Completely Clear Your Skin

Skin problems can appear even when you take good care of yourself with nutrition, skin cleansing and hydration. Here are some common skin problems that eliminating this one can help clear up:

Pimples or acne
Dryness and flaking
Patchy redness
Uneven pigmentation
Broken blood vessels
Dark circles under eyes
Puffiness
Whiteheads
Blackheads
Oiliness
Dullness
Wrinkles

When you eat refined sugars, your body uses a process called glycation to process the sugar. Sugar attaches to proteins in our bodies as it is eliminated, which causes damage. The damage to skin comes from the sugar-protein molecules attacking collagen and elastin, the important supporting structures beneath our skin’s surface.

The effects of this one ingredient on your skin

In the book The Saccharine Disease: Conditions Caused by the Taking of Refined Carbohydrates Such as Sugar and White Flour, Dr. T.L. Cleave writes that refine sugar can lead to skin diseases such as acne, chronic boils, and eczema. He instead recommends that any added sugars be avoided and suggests only raw or dried fruit or juice to be used to add sweetness.

Dr. Cleave says that although honey is a natural sugar, it should be consumed with the same infrequency as it was when we were hunter-gatherers in the past. Honey was difficult to get and often resulted in getting stung so our ancient ancestors may have had it every few months and less often in the winter.

In a study of diet and the effects on severe atopic dermatitis (red, itchy eczema that can blister), both male and female patients with skin problems reported higher refined sugar intake than those with clear skin.

How best to eliminate this one ingredient that will help clear your skin

Some people suggest removing refined carbohydrates completely cold turkey to see the best improvements. Unfortunately, refined sugar can be habit-forming and removing it completely can result in withdrawal and cravings, just like with drugs.

If you’re a refined sugar addict, withdrawal means that you will probably get angry about not being able to have sweet treats. You can read more about what craving sugar means in our article here. Rather than send yourself into craving mode, add honey to your tea, oatmeal or desserts rather than refined sugar.

Try honey over sugar in your recipes for a week and then see if you can do without it in one of your daily sweet meals. Keep reducing the amount of honey until you’ve eliminated it completely and are free of added sugars. Monitor your skin to see how quickly it can become completely clear without the one ingredient of processed sugar.

Other ingredients that can help clear your skin

Natural, raw ingredients that Cleopatra would have used in her beauty routine are some good things you should look for in your skin care strategy. Think of going to the kitchen rather than your bathroom for these:

Raw brown sugar – researchers found that the non-sugar ingredient of brown sugar helped prevent wrinkles, and helped skin thickness and elasticity.
Rose water – a non-clogging moisturizer that balances skin’s pH and adds antioxidants.
Kaolin clay – clay comes in many varieties and when mixed as a mask it can help draw out pore-clogging oil and dirt.
Aloe Vera gel – hydrates skin, helps with wrinkles and can help clear blemishes
Yogurt – use yogurt as a mask that sloughs off dead skin
Raw honey – honey can be used as a moisturizer and blemish treatment and when it is rinsed off it will leave your skin feeling soft and tighter, without dryness
Tea tree oil or Melaleuca oil – helps treat blemishes

Here’s a skin-cleansing scrub recipe that you’ll love:

FACE SCRUB

4 tablespoons ground coffee (fresh is best)
2 tablespoons cornmeal
3 tablespoons sea salt
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 drops lavender essential oil

You can also blend honey and yogurt for a blemish-fighting mask that you can also eat, in moderation.

10 Signs You’ve Found Someone Truly Special

February 11, 2016 by Power of Positivity

There are many “potential” relationships out there, but when searching for a quality partner, you’ll most likely find that there are plenty of fish in the sea – and you may have to throw quite a few of them back before finding someone truly special. But when you DO find that someone, they’ll have certain qualities and characteristics that will make you think twice about taking a pass on them. They’ll truly treat you like a somebody and more.

10 Signs You’ve Found Someone Truly Special

More specifically, these signs will tell you that you’ve found someone truly special.

1. Someone truly special will go out of their way to prove themselves worthy of your trust.

Giving you their password and PIN number on the first date would be going too far, but your partner should be open about their finances, whether you ask or not. Someone who is looking out for your well-being does not hide problems about themselves that could impact you as their partner.

Honesty and trust should be expected of your partner’s communication. This is true of their financial situation, health, legal, work, spiritual, and other parts of their lives.

In an intimate partnership, trust is essential to a healthy sex life. Being able to trust your partner is a foundation to feeling intimacy.

2. You’ve found someone truly special if they are comfortable with their emotions.

Love is only one of many emotions that we hope your partner has got a handle on. If they are also comfortable with anger, sadness, and fear, you can be happy that you’ve found a quality partner.

Have you had a significant fight over more than just taking out the trash? If you both came away laughing and with a better understanding of how you each respond to heightened stress, you can relax. Read our guide 10 Signs You’ve Found a Keeper to learn more about what your partner reveals through their emotions.

3. You’ve found someone truly special if they respect your needs as much as their own.

It takes two to successfully make a partnership. Hopefully your partner knows just how to support your needs while making sure that theirs are met. This usually entails the skillful arts of compromise and negotiating.

4. You’ve found someone truly special if they take care of themselves.

Someone who knows how important it is to first love themselves is a quality partner. Caring for yourself through good nutrition, fitness, and balancing your mental and emotional states helps you to be a better person for others. If your partner knows that too, that is a sign you’ve found a quality partner.

In a study of narcissism (selfishness), self-esteem and love, self-esteem was linked to passionate love, whereas narcissism was linked to a style of game-playing love due to their selfish need for power and autonomy. If your partner loves themselves, just the right amount, you’re in luck.

5. You’ve found someone truly special if they know how to listen.

The ability to tune out everything else and focus just on you and what you need is key in a quality partner. It’s even better if your partner can explain things clearly, concisely and in a style that matches yours.

Communication is also important to trust. How much your partner tells you is based on their comfort level with both openness and their need for privacy. Would they tell you if they went out to lunch with their ex or not?

6. You’ve found someone truly special if they pay attention to your signals.

No one is a mind-reader, but you give off suggestive body language hints at what you like and don’t like. Your facial expression can reveal whether you like your partner’s outfit for the day or not before they even ask you. If they can read your signals, you’ve found a quality partner.

This is also important in bed. You know that if your partner is massaging something and it starts to hurt, you retreat slightly from their touch and maybe make a little noise of displeasure. If they can pick up on that and change their technique to one that makes you moan in a good way, you’re a lucky person indeed.

7. You’ve found someone truly special if they are supportive.

A study on supportive partners and the relationship to a woman’s negative body image found that receiving support from a romantic partner was directly related to lower reported levels of negative body image issues and anxiety associated with her physical appearance. The researchers also mention that counselors should work to help foster supportive communication in relationships in order to best help clients .

8. You’ve found someone truly special if they enjoy commitment.

Being tied down to one romantic partner isn’t for everyone, but if your partner is happy to be linked to you and no one else, you indeed have found a quality partner.

9. You’ve found someone truly special if they make you laugh.

Unfortunately, romantic love is not always a bed of roses; it is in the sense that there’s hidden thorns. There will be bad times. Someone will get sick, someone will lose a loved one, someone will lose a source of income, etc. If you’re in it for the long haul, you know to expect the bad with the good.

A partner who can take those down times, allow a time for grieving and consoling, and then find a way to bring a smile back to your face is a gem and you should consider yourself blessed with a quality partner.

10. You’ve found someone truly special if they get along fine without you.

No one wants a puppet for a partner. Your other half should have a life of their own; a passion, a dream, and a sense of excitement about the promise of their destiny that awaits them. If this is a shared dream for both of you, that’s even better.

25 Adventure Quotes That Will Satisfy Your Wanderlust

February 10, 2016 by Power of Positivity

I think if given the opportunity and resources, we would all choose long-term travel at some point in our lives. After all, travel, above all else, broadens your perspective and gives you a breath of fresh air in the monotony of life. It allows you to know more of yourself, and more of others.

However, you can have adventures right where you are, as discovery can happen at any place, as long as you have a desire to seek it out. With that said, these quotes about adventure below will surely get you dreaming about places far and wide, and hopefully encourage you to do some exploring!

25 Adventure Quotes That Will Satisfy Your Wanderlust

1. “Life should not be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming “Wow! What a Ride!” – Hunter S. Thompson

2. “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” – T. S. Eliot

3. “Every dreamer knows that it is entirely possible to be homesick for a place you’ve never been to, perhaps more homesick than for familiar ground.” ~ Judith Thurman

4. “Life is either a great adventure or nothing.” ~ Helen Keller

5. “Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

6. “Not all those who wander are lost.” – J. R. R. Tolkien

7. “We travel, some of us forever, to seek other places, other lives, other souls.” – Anais Nin

8. “I am not the same, having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world.” – Mary Anne Radmacher

9. “We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” – Anonymous

10. “Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all of one’s lifetime.” – Mark Twain

11. “Man cannot discover new oceans unless he has the courage to lose sight of the shore.” – Andre Gide

12. “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” – Mark Twain

13. “Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer.” – Anonymous

14. “Stuff your eyes with wonder, live as if you’d drop dead in ten seconds. See the world. It’s more fantastic than any dream made or paid for in factories.” – Ray Bradbury

15. “A mind that is stretched by a new experience can never go back to its old dimensions.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes

16. “Take only memories, leave only footprints.” – Chief Seattle

17. “Two roads diverged in a wood and I – I took the one less traveled by.” – Robert Frost

18. “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Augustine of Hippo

19. “I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” – Robert Louis Stevenson

20. “What is that feeling when you’re driving away from people and they recede on the plain till you see their specks dispersing? – it’s the too-huge world vaulting us, and it’s good-bye. But we lean forward to the next crazy venture beneath the skies.” – Jack Kerouac

21. “She is free in her wildness, she is a wanderess, a drop of free water. She knows nothing of borders and cares nothing for rules or customs. ‘Time’ for her isn’t something to fight against. Her life flows clean, with passion, like fresh water.” – Roman Payne

22. “But that’s the glory of foreign travel, as far as I am concerned. I don’t want to know what people are talking about. I can’t think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything. Suddenly you are five years old again. You can’t read anything, you have only the most rudimentary sense of how things work, you can’t even reliably cross a street without endangering your life. Your whole existence becomes a series of interesting guesses.” – Bill Bryson

23. “We leave something of ourselves behind when we leave a place, we stay there, even though we go away. And there are things in us that we can find again only by going back there.” – Pascal Mercier

24. “To move, to breathe, to fly, to float, To gain all while you give, To roam the roads of lands remote, To travel is to live.” – Hans Christian Andersen

25. “We wanderers, ever seeking the lonelier way, begin no day where we have ended another day; and no sunrise finds us where sunset left us. Even while the earth sleeps we travel. We are the seeds of the tenacious plant, and it is in our ripeness and our fullness of heart that we are given to the wind and are scattered.” – Kahlil Gibran

If You See Someone With A Feather Tattoo, This Is What It Means

February 10, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Feather tattoos can have many different meanings, and people get them for a variety of reasons. Every tattoo means something different. And whether it’s a tribute to someone in your life, a symbol that is meaningful in some way, or just a design that you found to be attractive, there is almost always a specific reason behind a person’s choice to permanently ink their skin.

One such meaningful tattoo might come in the form of a beautiful feather tattoo. Whether it is a colorful feather or a more simple feather in black and white, there is often some level of significance behind these kinds of tattoo designs.

Easily one of the most popular designs, feathers have a lot of symbolism behind them. But many people don’t realize it. If you’ve been thinking of getting a feather tattoo, whether it is a big, sprawling back tattoo, an arm sleeve, or just a cute small tattoo behind the ear, you might be interested to learn a little bit about the various meanings behind this popular tattoo idea.

First, what is the cost of ink? That greatly depends on how intricate or simple the design is, as well as the size of the tattoo. If you get a large colorful feather tattoo, for example, it will likely be a lot more than a small simple feather tattoo.

IF YOU SEE SOMEONE WITH A FEATHER TATTOO, THIS IS WHAT IT MEANS

So what does this imagery symbolize? There are a lot of potential meanings behind feather tattoos, from freedom, to courage, to simply admiring the design. Here are a few possible meanings behind this artwork:

FREEDOM

An obvious meaning behind a feather tattoo, the desire for freedom prompts many people to get this design etched onto their skin. Bird feathers symbolize spreading your wings and taking off, no matter if you can see the ground or not. You might hear a lot of people who get these types of tattoos calling themselves free spirits or wanderers. That’s because they long for emotional, mental, and physical freedom. A tasteful bird feather design can be a subtle way to express this kind of spirit of longing, rather than through actual words or a full bird tattoo.

CONNECTION TO SPIRIT

Historically, different cultures have been known to sport feather tattoos as a sign that they have a close relationship with Spirit, Source, the Universe, or whatever you’d like to call it. Specifically, Native Americans, Egyptians, and Celtics wore feather tribal tattoos as a symbol of their connection to nature, and the various gods they believed in. These cultures have a close relationship with the Earth, and therefore, this tattoo allows them to depict that connection on their own skin, further deepening this bond between humans and Earth.

COURAGE/STRENGTH

Feather tattoos can also be a sign of boldness, assertiveness, and courage. If you look at it symbolically, birds have the courage to spread their wings and fly. Look at how they trust themselves enough to not fall. So, in the same way, people who get this artwork have great strength and faith in themselves to make the right decisions in life, and soar rather than fall. Sometimes all it takes is a beautiful feather in a prominent place, to remind you of the courage that you have inside.

INTELLIGENCE

People who get feather tattoos likely have great intelligence, as the imagery has an association with air, and people born under an air sign excel in intelligence and communication. They express themselves clearly and know exactly what they want in life, which persuades them to get some ink.

BEAUTY

Also, many animals with feathers have great beauty; for example, owls, peacocks, and doves. If you choose to get body art— especially a bird tattoo — this symbolizes regality, poise, and beauty. You might look at various birds in bewilderment, and really feel a connection to how they carry themselves in nature. If you get a feather tattoo, this will serve as a constant reminder of how truly breathtaking this world is. It is for this reason that bird feather tattoos such as eagle feather, peacock feather tattoos, and owl tattoos are very popular.

CULTURE

Especially in the Native American culture, birds are seen as sacred, wise creatures that deliver important messages and directly embody Spirit. Native Americans believe that all animals and plants carry the Source Energy through them. But birds are seen as special spirit guides, showing them the right path in life. So, you might choose to get a feather tattoo as a connection to your culture, as well.

It is also worth noting that the location of tattoo designs can alter their significance slightly. For example, a small feather tattoo behind the ear might mean something more intimate than, say, a simple feather on the arm.

If you are looking for inspiration for your large or small feather design — or even inspiration for your ink in general — you can find countless tattoo ideas online to spark something creatively inside of your mind.

If you’d like to read more about the meaning behind tattoos, you can read our article about semicolon tattoos here.

10 Signs You Aren’t Taking Care of Yourself

February 10, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Do you prioritize taking care of yourself?

“Each one has to find his peace from within. And peace to be real must be unaffected by outside circumstances.” – Mahatma Gandhi

As one reflects on this quote from perhaps the greatest Peacekeeper in history, the latter part of Gandhi’s statement catches our eye: “must be unaffected by outside circumstances.” Unaffected by the stressors we encounter every day. Unaffected by forces that attempt to derail us from living life with a sense of inner peace. This is a challenge for most of us, as it was a challenge for Gandhi. The man encountered injustices that would make even the most resolute among us tremble. Yet, he was able to overcome these circumstances in a peaceful and loving way.

Perhaps the biggest reason for Gandhi’s victorious life was his exceptional devotion to cultivating his inner strength. He once said “Strength does not come from physical capacity. It comes from an indomitable will.” He used his will to defeat both internal and external forces that attempted to defeat him. We too can recognize these internal forces and defeat them. There are ways that inner turmoil manifests itself and, once identified, can be overcome.

Here are ten signs you may not be taking care of yourself:

Take care of yourself – you are the priority!

1. Not embracing self-acceptance

This is one that many of us struggle with – the ability to simply embrace who we are. For whatever reason, we instead make fruitless attempts to think, act, and appear different than what we truly are. A predominant reason is that we attempt to mold ourselves to society’s expectations of who we should be and how we should live.

Self-acceptance is elusive, but it’s certainly possible. It’s not only a healthy and peaceful way to live; it should be the only way to live. Self-acceptance is simply embracing our inner selves without reservation or judgment. We should all seek to connect with our emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual selves.

2. Not living with self-compassion

When we incessantly berate ourselves, self-compassion becomes impossible. Continuously punishing our self-image and refusing to accept mistakes is a sure path to an unhappy destination.

The solution is to treat ourselves with compassionate care. We accomplish this by admitting our shortcomings while resisting the urge to hand out needless self-punishment. Nobody is without faults and flaws, and the willingness to accept this universal truth determines our capability to render self-compassion.

3. Not connecting with your needs

Selfless people are the lifeblood of any noteworthy society. That said, self-denial can be taken to an unhealthy and unnecessary extreme. As human beings, it is paramount that we are attentive to our needs. We all require love, acceptance, and purpose in our lives. Self-deprivation is not an altruistic trait, nor is it needed.

Instead, all of us should be cognizant of the fact that our needs are of the utmost importance. Taken a step further, our needs should provide the foundation that lends meaning to our lives. Let us all connect with our emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual needs.

4. Not connecting with your thoughts

There’s no way around it: our thoughts will default to auto-pilot if we allow it. The human mind is a magnificent gift, but only if we’re nurturing towards it. One aspect of our mind that is often subconsciously overlooked is that it is habitual. In other words, it’ll often repeat thoughts that have surfaced – both positive and negative.

To connect with our thoughts is to be mindful of their presence. Specifically, we recognize and make adjustments to unhealthy thought patterns while making it a point to embrace and duplicate positive thoughts. A special emphasis is placed on recognition here; for only through recognition can we consciously intervene and control our thoughts.

5. Not connecting with your beliefs

Would Gandhi have left such a remarkable legacy without an ability to connect with his beliefs? No, of course not, as Gandhi’s beliefs were his guiding principles. In the same way, we cannot expect to omit our beliefs if we aim to not only leave something behind but create a meaningful existence.

That said, we should ask ourselves if we’re truly connecting with our beliefs. Are we embracing our beliefs or substituting them for something else? Despite of any internal or external influences, our true beliefs and convictions remain. They simply require that we recognize their presence and act on them.

6. Not connecting with your intentions

One universal trait that we all share is the ability to seek and create our own destiny. Unfortunately, our lives rarely unfold as planned – this is when we should revisit our intentions. It’s natural for our expectations to shift as we continue throughout life. As we evolve, so do our aspirations.

It’s important that we continually revisit our intentions, as they provide a “True North.” Are we living in a way that’s conducive to our intentions or are we ignoring them? Achieving a dream – large or small – requires that we reexamine our purpose.

7. Not connecting with your expectations

This issue is complicated. Having expectations for ourselves is important, but we can also take that to an extreme. Limiting expectations frees us from disappointment, but minimization of expectations can create complacency.

The solution to this enigmatic reality is to simply be lenient. Goals are important, yes, but so is the ability to shed unnecessary pressure. The important thing is that we have achievable expectations without self-imposed burdens.

8. Neglecting self-kindness

As children, most of us are taught to be kind to everyone. Showing kindness is an act of love and a requirement if we wish to live in a meaningful world. Self-kindness is as important, if not more so than the benevolence we exude.

So, be kind to yourself. Forgive yourself. Love yourself. Take care of yourself. Be merciful with yourself. An added benefit: the kindness you give will be much greater in proportion.

9. Abandoning wants and desires

Withholding some wants might be necessary for some circumstances. Outside of anything selfish or counterproductive, it’s healthy to keep our wishes in mind. Many of us want a family; have educational aspirations; seek a certain career, etc.

When life becomes turbulent, it’s easy to abandon our wants and desires. Our hope is that you seek out and achieve your wishes that contribute to a meaningful life. Simply keeping our aspirations in mind and revisiting them on occasion is enough.

10. Not living with self-awareness

The capacity to be aware of our thoughts and actions is one that is exclusive to the human race. It’s also one that is commonly taken for granted. Our ability to understand how our behavior affects ourselves, others and our world is one that we should regard of the utmost importance.

So, make it a priority to do a bit of introspection. Are your thoughts and actions helpful or hurtful to yourself, others and your world? Be honest with yourself. One of the beautiful things about being human is our ability to change course and live a life that we and others deserve. Take care!

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

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!