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4 Ways to Stay Positive, Even Through an Illness

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To live your life to the fullest, you should always look for ways to stay positive despite all of life’s crazy surprises. Positivity is a fantastic drug.

Research shows that happy thoughts can make you more resilient to sickness and other adverse life events. But it can be tough to stay positive when you’re not feeling well, and even more so when being unwell has completely upended your life.

Sadly, many people experience sadness, anxiety, depression, stress, and other negative emotions when sick. This can make recovering even more difficult. Read on if you need a pick-me-up to help navigate a tricky health crisis. Here are four ways to stay positive, even through an illness.

1.    Stay Positive by Letting Yourself Experience Emotions

It’s a common misconception that those who stay positive never let themselves feel bad. For genuine positivity to take root, you must first process your emotions. It sounds counter-productive, but it’s how it works. When you don’t acknowledge your emotions, you repress them, exacerbating them. Studies show that it strengthens them as they influence you in subconscious ways. It’s like being weighed down by negativity!

That’s why the best way to stay positive through an illness is to permit yourself to feel the natural and valid emotions of being sick. To do this, you can:

stay positive

·         Name Your Emotions

The emotions you feel when you’re sick are bound to be complex. Try to name them out loud or describe them. This can help your brain process these feelings and help you understand how these emotions impact you.

·         Have a Good Cry

There’s no shame in having a good cry when you need it. Being sick can be overwhelming, especially when the future feels uncertain. Studies have shown that crying can sometimes help relieve negative emotions and uplift mood. More importantly, it’s a release of your feelings that comes from allowing yourself to express your negative emotions.

·         Let Yourself Be Sick of Being Sick

It’s normal to get sick of being sick, especially if your illness requires a lot of treatment or a prolonged recovery period. You might feel guilty for tired of feeling this way, but don’t be ashamed! Your body is not working as it should, and it’s expected to tire of dealing with that. This is a normal, healthy emotion to feel and shouldn’t be excluded so that you can stay positive. Toxic, unrealistic positivity is not genuine positivity at all!

·         Stay Positive by Writing in a Journal

If you have trouble letting yourself feel your emotions, it can help to write them down. Use a journal, Word document notes application or anything else to express all your thoughts. Do not, at any point, pause to judge yourself for what you feel. Write whatever pops into your head and allow yourself to release your emotions through the medium of the written word.

2.    Stay Positive by Accepting the Help You Need

When you’re sick, do you try to do everything yourself? Do you tell people not to help you and tend to push yourself to perform daily tasks that leave you exhausted and even sicker? This is a common situation for people who are ill, and it may happen because:

  • You worry about being a burden to the people around you, so you reject their help
  • You feel like everything is spinning out of control, so you attempt to take control of your daily life
  • You hate being dependent on others and force yourself to behave independently to avoid that situation
  • You feel ashamed or insecure about how you act and appear when sick, so you keep others out as much as possible

While these are all reasons worthy of empathy and understanding, they will also render you unable to stay positive. The fact is that when you’re sick, you deserve help and care, and it’s crucial to your healing that you accept assistance from those who care about you. If you reject all help, you’ll be exhausted and unable to recover, and you won’t have any energy left for positivity.

If you want to embrace positivity, you should accept help in the following ways:

·         Ask for a Listening Ear

As you already know, being ill can be emotionally taxing, and sometimes, what you need is a shoulder to cry on and an ear to listen to without judgment. Find trusted people in your life to who you’d like to be able to vent and ask them if they’d be happy to listen. Talking to someone can relieve stress, allowing you to stay positive with their support.

·         Let People Take Care Of You

You must allow the people in your life to take care of you. These people care about you deeply, want to help you recover and seek to make your time spent ill more comfortable. Don’t shut them out or push them away! It’s lovely to set boundaries for lines you’d prefer not to be crossed, but don’t forget that you deserve to receive help in this difficult time.

·         Take Time to Care for Yourself to Stay Positive

When you’re sick, self-care often goes out the window. You forget to take the time to eat well, drink enough, take nice baths, and do things you enjoy. But how are you going to stay positive if you feel so awful? While illness can reduce the number of ways you can take care of yourself, there are always options you can use. Taking care of yourself while you’re sick means permitting yourself to nap multiple times daily. Other times, it means going for a short walk. Tailor your methods of self-care to your specific illness and circumstances.

positivity

3.    Stay Positive by Joining a Peer Support Group

Being ill can be incredibly isolating because your life changes so dramatically while the lives of those around you remain mostly constant. And, even when your loved ones do all they can to be there for you, the fact is that they might not fully understand what it’s like to be in your shoes.

Thankfully, we live in the internet age, where it’s easy to go online and find various support groups for those with all sorts of illnesses. Finding a community of people like you can make you feel less alone and help you stay positive. Better yet, these individuals may have unique advice and wisdom based on their experiences that can be helpful for you.

If you go for treatment somewhere regularly and have the energy, you can also try making friends in person. Having a “buddy” physically present in the same or similar circumstances can boost your mood and help you stay positive. After all, research shows that social relationships can have a pretty significant impact on health!

4.    Reflect on Life And Sickness

Many people receive a lot of extra time as a side effect of being sick. This often makes a positive mindset so tricky when you’re ill. You have all the time in the world, limited energy to fill it, and nothing but your thoughts for the company a lot of the time. This can quickly lead to depression, resentment in your life, and general negativity.

Instead of allowing yourself to wallow in self-pity, use these empty moments to reflect critically on life, sickness, and yourself. This can be a massive moment of self-discovery for you, and having this free time can allow you to get in touch with yourself on a deeper level. You’ll not just learn to stay optimistic right now but to stay positive in a healthy way long-term. Here are some potential topics for reflection:

·         Your Behavior and if it Serves You

Examine your recent behavior in light of your sickness. This doesn’t mean your actions or energy levels, but your personality and how it has responded to illness. Has your behavior served you, or has it harmed you? What kind of behavior would you instead put forward? How can you move toward adopting that desired behavior without falling into toxic positivity or repression?

·         The Universal Laws of Impermanence

The only thing sure in life is that nothing is permanent. Your current situation is not permanent. Your mood is not permanent. Your current state is not permanent. You will feel different tomorrow, even a little bit, than you feel today. You can take comfort in knowing that things can be better, that things have been worse, and that if things are worse tomorrow, well, you’ve overcome bad things before – because those bad things aren’t permanent!

·         Seek Out the Good Things Around You

Finding positive aspects of life when sick can be challenging, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there. Don’t allow yourself to get stuck in clouds of unhappiness that you can’t see through. Find things that you like and are grateful for despite everything. This can be simple, like a comforting warm drink in bed or the intrigue in the books you read and the shows you watch.

Positivity can also be more nuanced, like being grateful that you have time off work or being glad that you’ve been able to reconnect with someone since you’ve been sick. Challenge yourself to find good things around you. If you can’t find them, create them! Please arrange for your favorite flowers to be delivered to your house and display them in a nearby window. Curl up with a good book. Play music that you like. Make friends online. Good things are always enjoyed, even in the most challenging times.

stay positive

Final Thoughts On Some Ways To Stay Positive, Even Through An Illness

Optimism and positivity can be hard to maintain. It’s challenging to stay positive in everyday life, but when you’re sick, that can be even harder. Following these four tips for remaining positive in times of illness, you can slowly but surely rise from the fog that has obscured your world due to sickness.

3 Ways Unconscious Bias Holds You Back

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Unconscious bias is an unavoidable part of existing in a world filled with moving pieces and lengthy histories that make their mark on today. To deny that you can be biased is to deny the truth. Everyone is affected, to some degree, by bias. People are judgmental by default. Believing that you are completely capable of total equality without pausing to consider and unlearn bias first is a doomed affair!

Many people deny the existence of their own unconscious bias because they are ashamed or afraid of what that bias says about them. But the fact is that these hidden forms of judgment are not a reflection of your character unless you agree with those thoughts. Unconscious bias comes from external factors – the media you watch, how you live, and how society treats you and those around you.

There are many forms of unconscious bias. Some of them can be helpful. For example, if you’ve seen enough cartoons about bees swarming people who disturb their hives, you instinctively steer clear of any hives. But most unconscious biases are negative, unhelpful, and even wholly untrue! And then, these wrong things proceed to dictate your life.

Unconscious bias roots itself deep down in your mind, and it takes a lot of work to confront and uproot those concepts. But if not removed, these issues can significantly harm your life and slowly seep into your interactions with others, altering your ideals, values, and the way you see the world. And all of this happens because of things you aren’t even consciously aware of! 

1 – You Jump To Conclusions Due to Unconscious Bias

judgmental

The human brain innately can only consciously process forty bits of information each second. This sounds like a lot, but did you know that the brain still processes unconscious information during that process? Indeed, research shows we unconsciously process a shocking eleven million informational pieces each second! This is why we jump to conclusions – we feel the need to create mental shortcuts to speed up our processing.

This wouldn’t be a problem if we could always trust our unconscious processing as objective and factual. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. As previously mentioned, your implicit bias is inaccurate and can often include beliefs that your conscious self abhors. 

As such, the conclusions you jump to as a result of unconscious bias are inaccurate. After all, jumping to conclusions is expertly recognized as a form of cognitive distortion. This means that it is an inherently irrational pattern of thought. Here are some ways that jumping to conclusions can hold you back:

  • Being Judgmental

You make quick, snap judgments about the people around you and miss out on unique and valuable connections. This judgmental way of thinking can also make you uncomfortable to be around, costing you your career and social life.

  • Labeling

Instead of understanding nuance, complex situations, and critical thought, you opt to label people, things, and events without thinking. You lose opportunities to learn more from these nuanced situations and gain new perspectives and understanding. And it certainly doesn’t help that you’re sure to label yourself, which limits your success and keeps you trapped in a box of your own making!

  • “Mind-Reading”

Of course, no one can read minds, but many people perform the cognitively dissonant process of “mind-reading.” This involves making assumptions about how others think or why they behave a certain way instead of communicating to clear the air. These assumptions cost you your professional and personal relationships at some point and can even become a mental prison. For example, if you think, “I have a stutter, and no one respects people with a stutter,” you might opt out of participating in big projects at work or be too afraid to take risks.

  • Fortune Telling

This is one of the most harmful things to hold you back in your life. Like with “mind-reading,” sure, you’re not fortune telling with any accuracy. Instead, you’re jumping to conclusions about how an event or situation will turn out. You choose not to audition for a role because you’ve already decided that you will probably not get in. You don’t try for a promotion because you think everyone else has a better chance of winning. Ultimately, all you do is kill your prospects before they’ve even begun. No wonder this judgmental behavior holds you back!

  • Confirmation Bias

This bias refers to the innate tendency to seek out and interpret information so that it confirms your current views. This ends up forming a never-ending cycle where your unconscious bias creates conscious bias, further reinforcing your unconscious beliefs. It takes a lot of effort to break the process; if you don’t, it only gets stronger throughout your life. 

At its core, this causes you to become close-minded. Gone are your opportunities to learn from others, seek new ideas, and broaden your horizons. You’ve already jumped to conclusions about most things, so you don’t think there’s anything else to learn!

2 – You Live A Life Governed By Emotions Instead Of Facts

unconscious bias

Unconscious bias may be a process in your brain, but it’s emotional, not logical. You’re basing your thoughts and actions on half-baked, unproven, and ultimately untrue ideas, and you refuse to leave the comfort zone of those thoughts because of their emotional importance. 

Maybe you’re afraid of thinking of other, more complex perspectives. Perhaps you’re uncomfortable with the idea of confronting your biases. Either way, this is an emotional view, not a perspective ruled by facts or rationality.

Emotions are healthy and normal, and there’s nothing shameful or wrong about having emotional thought processes. However, to manage these feelings, you have to sit with them, process them, and then question them to see what isn’t accurate to the situation. One might easily ignore this with their unconscious bias since jumping to conclusions is easy to do when it comes to emotional circumstances.

When you view things through the lens of your emotions, being judgmental holds you back in the following ways:

  • Appeals easily manipulate you to emotion and people pushing your buttons.
  • You’re unable to confront hard truths and are therefore unable to process reality and move forward to face that reality.
  • You have a lot of unprocessed emotions and trauma, which can lead to increased negativity and severe resentment.
  • You lose the ability for intelligent thought because you see most things in black or white and stick to binary extremes.

3 – You’re Unable To Detect Unconscious Bias In Others

As you’ve likely already gathered, unconscious bias affects everyone. But not everyone is interested in unlearning those biases or using more profound, critical thought to overcome their prejudices. Some insist they have no biases or decide that their unconscious biases are innately correct, shifting them into conscious bias.

When you interact with the people around you, you cannot know how much work they’ve done to unlearn or manage their own biases. The way they treat you could be rooted in numerous forms of intolerance. If you don’t realize that they’re letting this irrationality dictate how they perceive you, you could be caught up trying to fix things about yourself to reach their expectations without realizing that it’s a non-starter. You might also lose self-esteem in the process.

Worse still are the biases that could make or break significant moments in your life. Even those with expertise in their field are subject to their preference, and you need to know when to listen to someone, stand up and advocate for yourself, and seek other opinions from the less biased. 

You may not realize it, but implicit bias is deeply steeped in our world and culture. If you don’t acknowledge your preferences, you likely won’t know how other people’s biases affect you. Typical forms of unconscious bias that can be dangerous include:

  • Medical Bias

Some studies have gone far into detail about the existing unconscious bias that pollutes much of the medical world. Doctors and similar medical professionals may deny treatment or downplay the issues of women, people of color, and overweight individuals. These forms of implicit bias are systemic, so you must notice when you’re a victim of it so you can advocate for yourself and seek second medical opinions.

  • Racial Preference (Maybe The Best-known Unconscious Bias)

This controversial topic is, sadly, very well-studied. Research shows that employers are judgmental and more likely to prefer white-sounding names to names of other ethnicities when seeing equally qualified resumes. It’s pretty easy to see how racism can hold you back in life, so the harmful effects of this go somewhat without saying.

  • The Halo Effect (A Sneaky Way of Being Judgmental)

The halo effect is a psychological phenomenon whereby you are more likely to see positive things about someone or something you already have a positive impression of. At first glance, this doesn’t seem dangerous, but research says otherwise. But that means you’re more likely to trust someone you find attractive and less likely to question the intentions of someone who has impressed you in another way. This makes you easier to take advantage of, and you can be completely blindsided and unable to view your relationships objectively.

unconscious bias

Final Thoughts on Some Ways Unconscious Bias Holds You Back

Unconscious bias is a serious personal issue, but it’s also a severe issue in the larger society. These innate judgments of other people and various situations can and have led to widespread systemic problems, and it can all be a lot to take in and process.

For something so prevalent, it’s certainly unfortunate that it can so easily hold you back. By understanding the effects of this implicit bias and how it affects your life, you can learn to manage, overcome, and rise above the bias that you’ve internalized. There’s always an opportunity to learn and improve, so don’t be hard on yourself for your preferences. What you choose to do about those judgmental ways of thinking defines who you are!

Woman Shares 14 Tweets About Miscarriage Most People Don’t Know

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Sadly, millions of women worldwide experience a miscarriage each year. Most often, miscarriages happen due to the baby having extra or missing chromosomes. Scientists estimate that around 50% of all pregnancies end in miscarriages before the mother realizes she’s pregnant. In addition, 15-25% of women who find out about the pregnancy will miscarry.

Over 80% of miscarriages occur during the first trimester; having them after twenty weeks is rare. Common symptoms reported when a woman miscarries include heavy bleeding, painful cramps, and stomach pain. She may also experience back pain, body weakness, contractions, weight loss, blood clots, and pink mucus.

The traumatic experience of losing a baby also triggers a cascade of emotions. Some women find healing by talking to supportive people in their lives, such as a partner or family member. Others may seek mental health counselors or support groups to process their feelings.

However, some women may feel too embarrassed or ashamed to admit the loss of a baby. They might even blame themselves, despite the situation being out of control. Despite increased awareness about miscarriages, many still consider it a taboo subject. Therefore, some women may not feel comfortable talking about it, even with their loved ones.

Woman Shares Fourteen Tweets About Miscarriage Most People Don’t Know.

miscarriage

To help end the stigma and shame, Kristen R. Moore created a Twitter thread detailing her miscarriage. She hoped that being upfront about the experience would encourage other mothers to join the conversation. Below, we’ll share the raw truth about miscarriages that often goes unnoticed.

The pain of losing a baby doesn’t just go away overnight.


Medical professionals may not have the training to deal with miscarriages.

Some pharmacists may pass judgment when it comes to miscarriage medications.

The pharmacy does not always provide all the information you need.

But, a good pharmacist will explain more about the medication.

When you get pregnant again, you immediately worry about losing another baby.

No one can truly understand the pain you’re going through.


So many emotions arise when a woman miscarries.


Men also suffer from losing a baby, but their feelings often go unnoticed.

“My husband adds that the miscarriage experience was really traumatic and long for him too. And unexpectedly so. He needs/needed those conversations as much as I did and do,” she said to Buzzfeed News.

The body takes time to adjust even though you’re not pregnant.

It’s challenging to discuss miscarriages with others.

Remember to never say these things to someone who miscarried.

Even if it feels lonely, you still have people who care.


As if losing a baby wasn’t heartwrenching enough, the process of miscarrying itself can cause pain. And, the procedure doesn’t come cheap.

According to an interview with Buzzfeed News, Moore conceived one child through IVF. 

 “We tried for seven years before we got our first positive pregnancy test through IVF, after a laparoscopy, several rounds of insemination, and years of trying ourselves,” she said.

However, she had an unexpected pregnancy a few years later, which resulted in a miscarriage. Her doctor performed a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure to clear her uterine lining.

“I was 13 weeks along by the time I had the D&C,” she said. “I was almost 12 weeks when we couldn’t find the heartbeat. We’d heard the heartbeat several times before and had gotten the all-clear on our genetic tests. We’d just started telling people because the tests were all good,” she added.

Moore Believes Women’s Healthcare Should Be More Accessible.

Moore said that despite having great insurance, the procedure cost over $1,200. That didn’t even include the cost of copays, follow-up doctor visits, and medications. After paying the bill, she felt compelled to share her experience on social media.

She and her husband felt grateful to have the means to pay for the procedure. But, the high cost makes it inaccessible to many parents who may not have insurance. We have enough money to incur a surprise bill like that now. But a few years ago, that would have really sent us into a financial tailspin,” she said.

“I believe we should implement comprehensive healthcare reform, especially for women. That healthcare reform should include post-miscarriage support, including time off after birth and miscarriage, therapists/doula support, and a more holistic approach to training medical professionals dealing with this kind of loss. This might include articulating the complexities (physical and emotional) of recovering from miscarriage (and birth),” she said.

“But most importantly, you shouldn’t have to have a ton of money in order to receive this support. The way that class inequities shape patient care is indisputable, and those inequities intersect with other forms of inequity, like race and gender. So, Black and trans patients are likely to struggle to get the care they deserve in miscarriage situations (among others). We can and should do better,” Kristen added.

Kristen hopes her story can help other women who have experienced a miscarriage feel less alone. Some women may fear they can never get pregnant again after losing a baby. However, around 85% of women who have miscarriages go on to have healthy, full-term pregnancies.

And, having a miscarriage doesn’t always signal a fertility issue. But if you have repeated miscarriages, you should talk with your doctor. They can perform specific tests to determine why you’re miscarrying.

pregnancy workout

Final Thoughts on Things Most People Don’t Know About Miscarriages.

When Kristen Moore experienced a miscarriage, she felt so alone and misunderstood. Even pharmacists and doctors didn’t know how to deal with it. So, she took to Twitter to voice her concerns and experience.

Many women seemed to relate to her story and agreed that healthcare should have serious reform. Every woman should have access to miscarriage treatment, regardless of the cost. They also shouldn’t feel ashamed to seek care or ask questions about the procedure.

Hopefully, Kristen’s honest account of her experience provides support and comfort to many women (and men). Perhaps it will encourage women to continue advocating for their health and wellbeing.

Researchers Find a Cancer Kill Switch That Could Replace Chemotherapy

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Northwestern University scientists have found a cancer kill code in the body that could eliminate the need for chemotherapy. Every cell in the body comes equipped with this kill switch to destroy cancerous cells.

When the “kill switch” begins to detect cancer in any of the body’s cells, it uses this code to eradicate it. Both small ribonucleic acids (RNAs) and large protein-coding RNAs have the cancer elimination code embedded in them.

Scientists believe that microRNAs developed the cancer kill switch over 800 million years ago as a survival mechanism. This natural defense helps protect the body from cancer, but chemotherapy also triggers these small RNA molecules.

When cancer comes in contact with damaging RNAs, it can’t adapt or survive. Therefore, Northwestern University scientists believe a synthetic duplication could be a viable treatment in the future. Their study marks the first discovery that cancer cells cannot resist microRNA molecules.

“Now that we know the kill code, we can trigger the mechanism without having to use chemotherapy and without messing with the genome. We can use these small RNAs directly, introduce them into cells and trigger the kill switch,” said the lead author Marcus E. Peter, the Tomas D. Spies Professor of Cancer Metabolism at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.

Chemotherapy can result in many unwanted side effects, including causing additional cancers. This happens because it attacks both healthy and unhealthy cells. However, a natural treatment using microRNA would have a more targeted approach.

Through their research, the scientists determined that small RNA molecules kill cancer cells in a process called DISE. This stands for Death by Induced Survival gene Elimination.

When the team examined noncoding RNA molecules that inhibit gene expression, they found DISE nucleotide sequences on many RNA strands. They also found the same sequences embedded in many protein-coding molecules.

Scientists Discover Cancer Kill Code That May Replace Chemotherapy

cancer

“We found weapons that are downstream of chemotherapy,” noted Peter, a member of the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.

“We think this is how multicellular organisms eliminated cancer before the development of the adaptive immune system, which is about 500 million years old,” Peter said in a statement in 2017. “It could be a fail-safe that forces rogue cells to commit suicide. We believe it is active in every cell, protecting us from cancer.”

However, they still needed to determine what caused the cells to self-destruct. The team found that a sequence of six nucleotides (6mers) in small RNAs created a toxic environment for cancer. Nucleotides are present in both DNA as G, C, A, or T and U in RNA.

In the study, Peter and his team tested all 4,096 combinations of nucleotide sequences in the 6mers. They finally determined the most harmful combination included mostly G nucleotides. MicroRNAs use this 6mer to eliminate cancer cells in the body.

The research on how the microRNAs use the kill switch to extinguish cancer cells was published in Nature Communications. Peter and his team also did a subsequent study detailing how protein-coding large RNAs can convert to small RNAs.

They wanted to determine how the body develops microRNAs that activate the DISE sequence. In the second study, the team determined that our cells break down a more significant RNA strand into multiple microRNAs.

The cells chop a gene involved in tumor growth (Fas ligand) into small pieces that act as toxins to cancer. Peter’s team found that around 3% of all large protein-coding RNAs in the genome can trigger DISE.

That research was published in the journal eLife.

“Based on what we have learned in these two studies, we can now design artificial microRNAs that are much more powerful in killing cancer cells than even the ones developed by nature,” Peter said.

The Future of the Cancer Treatment

“We absolutely need to turn this into a novel form of therapy,” Peter added. He and his team have begun investigating ways to trigger a cancer kill switch. However, he notes that a possible treatment may take decades to develop.

The Northwestern team published groundbreaking research in Oncotarget in 2017 on a potential therapy. They utilized nanoparticles to transfer DISE microRNAs to human ovarian cancer cells grafted in mice.

Remarkably, the treatment reduced tumor growth dramatically without any dangerous side effects. The team hopes to increase the efficiency of the treatment in the future.

“My goal was not to come up with a new artificial toxic substance,” Peter said. “I wanted to follow nature’s lead. I want to utilize a mechanism that nature developed.”

He added that even newer, more advanced medications and gene therapies couldn’t eradicate aggressive cancers. For example, pancreatic, lung, brain, and ovarian cancers don’t respond well to gene therapy.

This treatment can only target one gene simultaneously, even though several genes cause cancer. However, the DISE microRNA approach can treat multiple genes simultaneously to eliminate even serious cancers.

Hopefully, the treatment will become available shortly. Peter and his team will continue researching ways to improve the therapy. They hope it will affect many types of cancer by eliminating it at the source.

In many ways, returning to nature would positively impact our mental and physical well-being.

chemotherapy

Final Thoughts on Cancer Kill Switch Found in RNA Molecules

Northwestern University scientists have made notable progress in cancer research in the past five years. They have discovered a cancer “kill switch” embedded in microRNAs and larger protein-coding RNAs.

In several studies, the team found that when cancer comes into contact with these molecules, it cannot survive.

The body developed this survival tactic against cancer over 800 million years ago, which still exists today. Scientists hope creating a synthetic replica of this natural process will eradicate many cancers.

They have already proven that DISE microRNA treatment can reduce human ovarian tumors. The next step will be perfecting the therapy and making it commercially available. Perhaps in the next several decades, cancer will become a disease of the past.

German Shepherd Finds a Forever Home After 2,381 Days in a Shelter

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A senior German shepherd named Higgins found his forever home after spending almost seven years in a shelter. Volunteers at the shelter feared that no one would ever adopt him, as older dogs often receive less interest from potential parents. Many visitors at the kennel even suggested putting him to sleep to put him out of his misery.

However, Leslie Renner, The Humane Society of Preble County in Ohio’s executive director, never gave up hope. She felt Higgins just needed the right person to come along and fall in love with him. The German shepherd breed offers loyalty and protection, making them popular pets.

Renner ignored the suggestions about putting the poor dog to sleep and continued sharing his pictures on social media. She thought someone out there would love to have the beautiful dog as their best friend.

Despite her best efforts, it would take time for anyone to adopt the German shepherd. His previous owners had adopted him as a young puppy but didn’t treat him well. After a negative experience at his first home, Higgins returned to the shelter in 2012.

“We heard he was nothing more than a dog chained up to a dog house,” Renner said to The Dodo. “About a year later, someone walked in with a stray dog — and it was him.”

At least the German shepherd had escaped the abusive environment, but the memories stayed with him.

“Nobody ever came looking for him,” she added, “nobody ever cared.”

Now, Higgins would have to adjust to life in a shelter. While he received much better treatment there, it still didn’t feel like home. Volunteers at the Humane Society noticed that Higgins enjoyed being alone, away from other dogs.

This likely stemmed from the fact that his previous owners kept him isolated. However, Higgins’ antisocial behavior seemed to discourage potential adopters.

The Humane Society Never Gave Up on the German Shepherd

german shepherd

Renner realized she must remain patient until someone gave Higgins a chance. Unfortunately, people continued to overlook the adorable German shepherd. Renner believed that his age contributed the most to potential adopters rejecting him.

“People are looking for puppies or dogs that are six months old,” Renner said. “When he came back, he was a year old, and then two and then three.”

Since Higgins lived in the shelter most of his life, adopters assumed he had issues. After all, why would people continue to pass him up?

“His face always had such a worried look on it that he was a little intimidating when he was in his kennel,” Renner said. “People just walked past him.”

However, after 2,381 days (7 years!) living in the shelter, Higgins finally found his human. When 22-year-old Brendon Reed saw his picture on social media, he instantly fell in love with him.

At that moment, he knew he wanted to bring Higgins home and drove to the shelter. Upon meeting the German shepherd, he felt an instant connection, as if they were soulmates.

“He was just a beautiful dog,” Reed told The Dodo. “He just seemed so cute … I don’t know how he didn’t get adopted.”

When Reed walked into the shelter and said he wanted to take Higgins home, Renner couldn’t believe her ears. Reed had recently purchased his first home and wanted a canine companion.

After nearly seven years, Higgins finally found a forever home and a dad who cares for him deeply. The German shepherd finally felt loved and comforted, something he had never experienced.

Older Dog Found His Forever Home After 2,381 Days in Shelter

Reed went above and beyond to ensure his new home had a welcoming atmosphere for the senior pet. He bought a soft, fluffy couch for Higgins to sleep on and watch TV with him. Reed also enjoyed watching Higgins run playfully in his backyard and roll around in the grass.

The anguish and uncertainty of shelter life soon became a distant memory for Higgins. Now, the German shepherd can live out his years in a warm, loving home. His dad ensures he feels safe and loved daily, and Higgins returns the love tenfold.

“He is just so happy; it’s kind of crazy,” Reed told The Dodo. “He just likes to chillax.”

This story proves that older dogs can still make wonderful pets! They usually have less energy than puppies, making them ideal for busy pet owners. Senior pets feel content to cuddle on the couch or just lay around the house. They don’t need much stimulation or entertainment, preferring more low-key activities.

However, if you adopt an older dog, take them for regular vet visits. As dogs age, they become more susceptible to health problems and may need additional care. Veterinary bills can add up, so ensure you have the resources to care for a dog before adopting.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), senior dogs may also require more specialized diets. Make sure to buy foods with anti-aging nutrients that they can digest quickly. Also, older German shepherd breeds and other dogs still need exercise despite declining energy levels. A ten to twenty-minute walk twice daily should suffice for most pets.

If you have the patience and time for an older dog, it can be a rewarding experience.

older dogs

Final Thoughts on Dog Who Got Adopted After Nearly Seven Years

An older German shepherd named Higgins finally found his human after 2,381 days in a shelter. Before Brendon Reed came along, the poor dog didn’t know love or compassion. Volunteers at the Humane Society did their best to care for Higgins, but he still needed a forever home. His previous owners left him tied to a chain all day, but he eventually freed himself and roamed the streets.

Passersby brought him back to the shelter, where he remained until Reed came across his picture online. After falling in love with a photo of Higgins, he drove to the shelter to bring his new best friend home. The beautiful German shepherd now lives a peaceful, happy life, thanks to those who never gave up on him.

Courageous People Display These 23 Traits Without Realizing It

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When you think of a courageous person, what picture comes to mind? Do you envision the firefighter who rushes into a burning building to pull people to safety? Perhaps, you see the person whose life has been beaten down one too many times get up and fight again.

Many people envision courage as a physical trait, but it’s also very much a mental characteristic that’s good to have too. Remember the iconic movie “The Wizard of Oz” where the cowardly lion just wanted some courage? Courage is one of the things that you need to thrive in this life.

23 Traits Courageous People Display

How do you know if you’re courageous, or do you have some work to do to conquer your fears? Here are some habits that people with courage display.

courageous

1. Courageous People Display Confidence

Courageous people believe in themselves even when no one else does. When the odds are stacked against them, they still think they can do whatever they set their mind to accomplish. They’ve learned to be their cheerleader and pump themselves up even when the whole world is in opposition.

2. Mindful Living

The courageous person knows nothing good happens when you keep turning to the past. They embrace mindful living and focus on the here and now. They know that ruminating about what’s behind them isn’t helping them reach their goals, so they keep moving forward.

3. Courageous People Have Integrity

Though they have the drive to compel them forward, the courageous person still has integrity. They won’t sacrifice their principles to get ahead in life. They live by a strict set of morals and guidelines and won’t compromise.

4. Boldness

Someone with courage has fears, but they will stand up for what they believe in and put those worries aside. They have no problem putting someone in their place or making moves against the grain. They have leadership qualities that bring out the boldness deep inside.

5. Visionary

Everyone has a dream inside them, but some people are afraid to chase after this vision. Having an idea creates clarity, and Forbes Magazine says it’s helpful to have a personal vision statement. This statement helps you to understand yourself and your future a bit better.

6. Natural Born Leaders Have Courage

Whenever a courageous person is put into the mix, they will always be the one leading the troop. Their leadership skills are hard to deny; even though they have fears, they will still see the mission through. They know how to utilize the skills of others to make the best impact.

7. Positive Thinking and Optimism

Courageous people know the power of positive thinking. It’s easy to be negative and naysay things when the picture is bleak, but they know that the key to getting anything done is the proper mindset. They know that positive thinking is the key that opens the lock to fulfilling your dreams.

8. Courage Requires Tenacity

Having courage means slaying some significant hurdles that get in your way. Someone tenacious will keep going because their inner drive compels them. Even if the whole team bails on them and doesn’t believe in the task anymore, the person with courage will keep going because of their tenacious spirit.

9. Prompt

Procrastination isn’t a word that’s in the brave person’s vocabulary. These people show up and show out. They know that the early bird gets the worm, an excellent skill to have in both the personal and professional worlds.

According to the Association for Psychological Science, procrastinating people have a gap between attention and action. Some folks have fears or feel something is overwhelming, so they put it off because they don’t want to do it.

The study also found that some people struggle to regulate their moods and emotions. However, these are not a problem for the fearless person.

10. Courageous People Are Flexible

Having courage means being flexible. Life never stays the same, and what’s here today may be gone tomorrow. Getting up the nerve and facing your fears means being flexible to get things done. There’s always a plan B in life, and the courageous person knows that sometimes it ends up being the best path.

11. Courageous People Are Fair and Objective

Being objective is an essential part of courage. A person who stands up and faces the crowd must learn to be objective. They look at all sides and try to be fair in their decisions. They aren’t biased and don’t play favorites, but they’ve learned that objectivity is imperative.

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12. Authenticity

What you see is what you get. When someone has courage inside them, they don’t need to wear a mask or put on a show for people. They’re genuine on the inside and out. They wouldn’t dare hide behind a façade as they’re genuine and authentic.

13. Compassion Requires Courage

Putting someone else’s needs above your own is compassion, which often runs hand-in-hand with courage. Responsibility comes with taking charge, which means you must look out for the group and not just your personal needs. Selfless acts are commonplace with this person.

14. Intuitive

Everyone has an inner voice, but a courageous person knows they need to trust their intuitive side to help them make good decisions. They don’t depend on others to make choices in critical situations, as they know it’s better to trust their intuition to make the right decision.

15. Humble People Have Courage

Are you humble? Many people know this word but don’t know what it means. A humble person isn’t haughty or arrogant and would never see themselves as better than anyone else. They choose humility in all aspects of life.

16. Conviction

It’s not uncommon for people to ride the fence on an issue and wait until someone pushes them to either side. They know where they stand and don’t need anyone to help them decide. This person would never dream of following a crowd, and they won’t alter their opinion when the wind changes or because of their fears.

17. Courageous People Are Dedicated

Having courage means not being afraid of hard work. This person is the one who will roll up their sleeves and help their team, as they don’t see themselves as any better than others. They care about their group and will do whatever it takes to get the job done.

18. Honest

A brave person is genuine. They won’t tell you what you want to hear to save face, but they will be who they are, regardless of whether you like them. It takes courage to stand up and be yourself, knowing there’s a good chance you won’t be received well.

19. Motivated

You know that courageous people aren’t much for procrastination, but part of the reason they keep going is a deep motivation. It’s what makes them get up every morning even though they’re exhausted from the day before. They’re not afraid to take risks, stand out in the crowd, and be the voice of the others in the group. They’re motivated and have a desire to complete whatever they start.

20. Self-Discipline

If a person doesn’t have self-discipline, then nothing is possible. The person with courage knows that the desire to succeed within them is greater than the consequences if they don’t master it. They try to control whatever they do, so they see the job done from start to finish.

21. A Surprising Connection Between Courage and Curiosity

They may seem unrelated at first glance, but curiosity is the very thing that drives a person with courage. It’s the hallmark of learning that helps keep your mind sharp. Learning is a part of your journey in this life that will never end.

22. Prioritization

Some things take precedence in life, while others are not as important. Someone with courage knows you must prioritize the relevant from the irrelevant, as you will spin your wheels on stuff that doesn’t matter if you don’t.

They know that if you want to move a rock pile, you start with the big rocks first, as these will have the most impact. They understand that the pebbles will make an insignificant dent in the job. They’re not afraid to go after the big things as the small items will be easier to do last.

23. Courageous People Have Healthy Self-Esteem

Most courageous people have a healthy personality, and part of it comes from good self-esteem. They appreciate their passion and discipline, and their reputation is spot on. They never compare themselves with others. In fact, they know this comparison isn’t fair. They feel positive about themselves and comfortable being who they are.

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Final Thoughts on Traits Courageous People Display

Do you see any of the traits listed above in yourself? Maybe you just need to become bolder and gain courage in your life. You can build your courageous nature by first starting with building your esteem. When you believe in yourself, you can conquer anything that stands in your way.

Science Explains Why Some Kids Hate Vegetables and How to Fix It

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If you’ve ever wrestled a three-year-old over eating one carrot, you know first-hand how much kids hate vegetables. According to science, it’s normal for a child to have fussy eating habits regarding vegetables. That doesn’t mean you should give up offering them veggies for snacks or at meals.

The extra effort is worth your child’s nutritional benefits from eating more plant-based foods.

10 Science-Proven Reasons Why Children Hate Vegetables

So why do kids hate vegetables? Science gives ten perfectly reasonable explanations.

vegetables

1. Blame their taste buds

It’s easy to assume your sweet three-year-old is stubborn about eating that carrot, but it could be because their taste buds aren’t fully developed. Small children prefer salty and sweet foods. This decreases when they get older as they try new foods. Kids are more willing to taste new foods if people around them eat them. So, if your three-year-old is standing their ground, give them some time and keep offering them vegetables. One day, they may surprise you and eat that carrot.

Cruciferous foods are especially a challenge for kids to eat. That’s because these plants are slightly bitter. The bitterness is more offensive to kids than adults. These veggies’ bitter flavor comes from calcium and compounds including:

  • Isoflavones
  • Phenols
  • Flavonoids
  • Glucosinolates
  • Terpenes

2. It could be in their genes

According to science, if you didn’t like eating your vegetables as a kid, it’s more likely your kids won’t like them. It seems that genes may play a big part in your eating habits. Over the years, you’ve learned to eat plants because you know their importance to your diet. If your child is picky about vegetables, be patient with them. Like you, they will eventually adapt to eating plants. Remember the first vegetables you ate as a kid. Maybe your child will follow suit.

3. Pregnancy foods matter

Science swears that what a parent eats during pregnancy influences a child’s acceptance or rejection of solid foods like vegetables. They say the amniotic fluids surrounding the baby contained the flavors from the mother’s diet. Because the baby swallowed this amniotic fluid, the taste and smell of these foods became familiar. So, a child’s first food experience occurs before birth. So, even if you’re up against pre-birth preferences, your child can learn to like vegetables over time. It just takes some patience on your part to keep introducing those new tastes.

4. Some veggies taste funny

When you offer your kids broccoli, they often resist even trying a small piece. Studies show that cruciferous vegetables taste especially bad to kids. These vegetables contain an enzyme called cysteine lyases, which makes different bacteria in your mouth. When you eat broccoli, the enzymes are released and kick into gear. This makes the pungent odor of these vegetables. Other cruciferous offerings that are especially nasty tasting to kids include the following:

  • Cabbage
  • Cauliflower
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Bok choy
  • Collard greens
  • Kale

5 . Fast food memories are more fun

Kids are fast learners. It doesn’t take them long to associate fatty, high-calorie fast food with special occasions like special treats and rewards. No parent ever said to their kid, “Let’s go buy a bag of carrots to celebrate.” Science says this is why kids hate vegetables. Like adults, when a kid eats fast foods, a specific dopamine gets released in their brain. This “feel good” chemical gives them pleasure. It may be good to avoid food as a reward or treat. Instead, try sharing one of these non-food rewards, such as:

  • Small toy
  • Playtime with a friend
  • Stay up later
  • A unique place to sit at the dinner table
  • Trips to the playground, pool, or bowling alley
  • Special stickers
  • Extra screen time

6. Maybe you hate veggies

Whether or not you know it, your kids are watching you. Researchers say parents’ food preferences rub off on their kids. Your food choices at the dinner table greatly influence your child’s taste development. Ask yourself these questions about your food choices:

  • Do you eat green veggies at dinner?
  • Do you snack on fruits during the day?
  • Are you willing to try new vegetable dishes, or do you turn up your nose?

One study found that teenage girls who saw their dads drinking milk had a higher calcium consumption than girls who did not see their dads drinking milk.

7. It’s a texture thing

Some adults and kids are disgusted by the textures of some vegetables. Veggies that are mushy, stringy, or slippery put them off. This texture may cause them not to want to eat vegetables for fear they won’t enjoy it. As a child’s eating habits mature, it’s important to introduce different food textures. They may not like them at first. But over time, they can develop a taste for these foods.

8. Vegetables aren’t always easy to eat

Vegetables aren’t always easy for kids to bite or chew. They’re also not as familiar as crackers, bread, or noodles. In many ways, kids are creatures of habit. If they haven’t experienced different foods that are crunchy or have more fiber, they will not want to try them. They like predictable tastes and textures. Roast or grill vegetables for easier eating. Make veggies more fun by giving them names. One family called broccoli trees, and the kids liked the idea they were eating tree branches. Offer your kids veggie dips like ranch dressing or peanut butter to dip in their vegetables. This hides the texture and adds flavor.

vegetables

9. It’s just fun to hate veggies

Face it. Kids will be kids. Sometimes, they enjoy being stubborn. They like saying no to everything you say. When your kids are in this kind of mood, you might as well skip trying to push the veggies. Play along and be overly dramatic; they’ll love that. Or you could try reverse psychology and tell them they can’t eat the vegetables at dinner tonight. When they ask why, tell them it’s because the vegetables are special.

10. Lack of experience with vegetables

Most kids won’t eat unfamiliar vegetables. One way to increase their familiarity with veggies is to involve your child in food prep. Let them chop the mushrooms for an omelet. Talk about where mushrooms come from and how good they are in foods. Let them put peas into the soup and stir it. As they learn about different vegetables, they’ll be more open to tasting them significantly if they’ve helped cook the dish.

How can you help your kids like vegetables?

If your kids hate veggies, what can you do? Here are some suggestions to help your kids eat their vegetables.

1. Give the veggies a good disguise

Hiding vegetables could be your best option if your child is picky. Instead of making every meal a wrestling match, hide them by pureeing them and putting them in baked goods. Some good places to hide your child’s vegetables include the following:

  • Zucchini bread
  • Pumpkin bread
  • Spaghetti sauce-hide pureed carrots or pureed spinach
  • Macaroni and cheese-Hide pureed squash

2. Give them water with their vegetables

Researchers suggest that if you offer your child water instead of juice with a plate of vegetables like carrots and sweet peppers, they will be more likely to eat the vegetables. This is because a liquid won’t hide the flavors of the vegetables.

3. Give them more veggie choices

Wait, what? That’s right. If your kids hate vegetables, give them even more. Set out a plate of vegetables as an appetizer right before a meal. You can set out a plate with raw carrots, sweet bell peppers, or crispy celery. The bigger the platter, the more the kids will eat. Or serve a salad, then serve the chicken tenders. Keep the central portion small. The rule of thumb is that the bigger the entrée, the fewer vegetables and fruits a kid will eat. So, reversing the portions makes sense.

6. Try to relax

Most of all, try to relax. You’re not the worst parent in the world because your child isn’t eating vegetables. It may take some time, but as you’re persistently introducing dishes with vegetables to them, they will eventually try them. Pressuring your kids to eat vegetables won’t change their minds; it will make dinner time an emotional nightmare.

eating habits

Final Thoughts on Why Children Dislike Vegetables and Teaching Them Better Eating Habits

It’s normal for young children to have fussy eating habits. Vegetables seem to be one of their favorite foods to hate. Even if your child stubbornly resists eating veggies, don’t give up. Get your child involved with meal prep, including vegetable cleaning and cutting.

They might have a problem with food textures, or vegetables taste bitter to them. Maybe you need to up your vegetables to be a better example. Whatever the reason, try not to worry too much about it. Keep putting different vegetables in front of them; over time, they will begin to build healthy eating habits.

20 Things That Reveal Complicated Family Dynamics

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There are no perfect family dynamics, and no one had a childhood without a few issues. Still, for some folks, mentioning the word family invokes all sorts of emotions. These emotions are very complex, as even in healthy relationships, issues are still to resolve.

When a person has a toxic family dynamic, their feelings for their family go way beyond disappointment and frustration. Instead, it can cause significant emotional distress to even be in the same room with these individuals.

Twenty Warning Signs of Toxic Family Dynamics

It’s not always easy to identify toxic family dynamics, and it’s even harder to see when you’re rooted in them daily. Here are some warning signs that your situation may be unhealthy, which indicates that things must change for your mental health.

family dynamics

1. Manipulation Frequently Exists In Complicated Family Dynamics

The classic manipulator can be male or female and fall within any age group. It’s the person that will work you like a puppet on a string. They are more interested in what you can do for them than in a relationship.

This person is very toxic, as they don’t have your best interest at heart. They are out for themselves and furthering their own agenda and will use and abuse anyone they can.

2. Not Respecting Boundaries

Boundaries are an essential part of any relationship. In toxic family dynamics, a grandparent may try to overrule you on your children, or they can stick their noses into your romantic relationships. Someone who doesn’t respect your boundaries is essentially not respecting you.

3. Name Calling

There’s never a reason to call names, even if the inappropriate title is said in a joking manner. No one has a right to call you anything other than your name or a nickname that you like. When they use derogatory terms to describe you or your actions, then it’s toxic and destructive.

4. Control

Control comes in many forms, but some people like to dictate everything about your life without even asking your opinion. This person may schedule get-togethers and other events and expect you to be there without considering your plans. An individual who tries to control everyone is toxic, and they bring poisonous family dynamics to the group.

5. Previous or Current Abuse

It’s almost impossible to have healthy relationships when there’s any form of current or past abuse. Even if a person apologizes for their actions, you can’t forget. Abuse changes you, and it will alter the way you look at the perpetrator.

6. Substance Abuse Can Come From Negative Family Dynamics

Substance abuse is a game changer, whether current or in the past. Though it happens more often than you might think, it causes toxic family dynamics. When someone is heavily involved in drugs or alcohol, their unable to love you the way you need to be loved, as their addiction supersedes any relationship.

7. Anger Outbursts

Does someone in your family have anger issues? Do they fly into a blind rage when things don’t go their way? Not only does this make having a healthy relationship with this person impossible, but you will walk on eggshells around them.

According to the National Library of Medicine, someone with rage issues may have an intermittent explosive disorder, a mood disorder, or poor coping skills. Dealing with this person can be challenging, as you always await the subsequent explosion.

8. Family Dynamics That Include Belittling You

The world is cruel enough, and you should never have to deal with your flesh and blood putting you down. Sometimes family members make people feel inferior, and it’s challenging to have healthy relationships with someone who looks at you as lacking.

9. Bullying

A bully is often someone you meet on the playground at school. However, there are bullies of all ages. You may encounter such a person in your family. They may push you around and try to get you to do things you don’t want to do.

They also have control issues, but the biggest thing to understand about these people is the insecurities and troubles they have going on inside them. The problem isn’t you; it’s them.

10. Stonewalling Is Part of Negative Family Dynamics

Stonewalling is a part of family dynamics that can drive a person away. This mysterious behavior is meant to ignore the issues at hand. If you bring up something to this person, they will walk away. They don’t want to talk about the problems, so they shut down whenever anything uncomfortable is brought to them.

healthy relationships

11. Gaslighting

Gaslighting is another psychological game that some people like to engage in. The person gaslighted may feel they’re going crazy or losing touch with reality. The manipulating individual tries to make you think things that aren’t true to protect themselves or their misdeeds.

12. Threats of Harm

Anyone who makes threats of violence against you, or your immediate family, is toxic. These family dynamics are hard to handle, but you must walk away from these people. Someone who threatens you is unbalanced and needs to seek help for their actions.

13. Consistent Blowups

There’s always drama and confusion when this person is around. At any family get-together, they’re the ones to likely cause a ruckus over nothing. They’re challenging to get along with and someone you want to avoid.

14. Passive-Aggressive Behaviors

The passive-aggressive person acts like everything is okay, but they’re genuinely stewing inside. They make snide comments under their breath at you because they’re upset about something you did, but they won’t admit it. This person makes it hard to have healthy relationships, as their actions are purely toxic.

14. Unfair Comparisons Exist in Harmful Family Dynamics

It’s not fair to compare you to your siblings or family members. You’re unique–another person like you will never walk on this planet. Sadly, when someone compares you and your accomplishments, or the lack thereof, to others, it’s a way of putting you down.

15. Gossip and Backbiting

Someone whispering the secrets of others in your ears is surely whispering your secrets to others. The family dynamics are rough when you have someone that’s a tale bearer in the mix. Just be careful what you say to this person, or your business will spread as fast as if it were on the local news.

16. Unhealthy Competition

A little bit of competition is not a bad thing, as it helps to motivate and push you forward in life. However, competition can be unhealthy too. Competition becomes toxic when families resort to name-calling, putting others down, or physical violence. You can’t have a healthy relationship with someone who makes everything a competition.

17. Favoritism

One family dynamic you wish you wouldn’t have to deal with is favoritism. While most parents say they don’t have a favorite, it’s clear who is the pick in many families. Playing favorites can also extend to the grandchildren, which makes the toxic dynamics continue.

18. Lack of Acceptance

Some family members will never be okay with you or your life choices. They may not like your spouse, job choice, or even where you live. Remember, you don’t have to please anyone else but your partner.

There’s no reason why you need to go out of your way to appease poor family dynamics. If you’re doing your best to make it in life, you’re doing enough.

19. One-Sided Family Dynamics

The road between you and the other person goes two ways. Some people are only capable of one-sided relationships. If you didn’t call or visit them, you would never hear from them.

Unless there’s a physical reason why someone can’t see you, you’re in a one-sided relationship that’s not healthy.

20. Envy or Jealousy

Families always have some jealousy, but sometimes this jealousy can turn ugly. Jealousy can make people do crazy things, including hurting those they love the most. According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, jealousy is one of the biggest triggers of violence.

While everyone has some degree of envy when they see people get a new car or home, this emotion is over the top. It makes others feel uncomfortable or even unsafe.

family relationships

Final Thoughts on Identifying Poor Family Dynamics

You can always tell if you have toxic family dynamics by how you feel when you see them. Do you feel a nagging ache in the pit of your stomach, or does being in their presence give you a headache? Healthy relationships don’t make you feel this way.

Many go years without speaking to family members, parents included, when they don’t respect them. No one ever has a right to call names, make you feel bad about yourself, or put you and your immediate family down. Part of loving yourself is walking away from these situations and embracing those with whom you can have healthy relationships.

20 Holistic Health Treatments Most People Forget

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Many folks are turning to a holistic approach to managing their health. It’s believed that there’s no ailment your body might develop that Mother Nature can’t heal. Healthy living is essential, as it means being mindful of what you put into your body, including what you use to treat yourself.

One of the many benefits of natural medicine is that the side effect profile is slim to none. You don’t have to worry about the excessive risks of many other treatment methods. Nature itself is healing, but it also provides many herbs and spices that have medicinal properties. Healthy living is an approach that incorporates the mind, body, and soul.

When you learn to focus on your wellbeing on the inside, it can’t help but radiate to the outside. According to a study by The Harris Poll in 2018, researchers found that 47 percent of the population believes that Chinese wisdom and natural therapies can solve things like cancer and other ailments. Many people believe this through trial and error of their own, while others know of people that holistic treatments have helped.

Twenty Holistic Health Treatments You Must Try

holistic

There are many ways to incorporate healthy living into your day, including your treatment methods. Don’t run to the drug store to grab the next powerful pain killer when you have a toothache. Why not go to the supermarket for a holistic fix?

It sounds ironic, but here are some alternative health treatments many people have heard and forgotten about, but you must try them.

1. Cinnamon Teas for Arthritis

The Arthritis Foundation states that more than a hundred types of this painful inflammatory condition exist. There is no cure, but an anti-inflammatory treatment can help. One of the best little-known secrets to arthritic pain is cinnamon tea.

Cinnamon is a peppery spice that can be mixed into just about anything. In tea form, it has many immune-boosting properties and the ability to detoxify. Another benefit is it’s a natural anti-inflammatory. The best thing is that you won’t even seem to be drinking anything with medical properties, as the taste is stunning with a dab of honey mixed into it.

2. Natural, Holistic Antibiotics: Honey and Turmeric

Many people are shocked to find that honey and turmeric are one of the most potent natural antibiotics. It should be your go-to for holistic therapies if you’re fighting a bacterial or viral infection. It’s a great immune booster that has fantastic anti-inflammatory properties.

3. Reduce Pain and Inflammation with Turmeric

When it comes to pain relief, look no further than turmeric. This golden powder has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pain-relieving properties that can’t be denied. It also has anti-cancer and neuroprotective assets that should be investigated further.

4. Cloves and Ginger for Toothaches

A toothache is a terrible pain that many people compare to childbirth. However, rubbing clove oil or some fresh ginger on the inflamed gum shows to be very effective. The spicey properties of these plants warm up the area, fight bacteria, and bring quick relief.

According to Medical News Today, a 10th-century Arabian dentist started using this holistic treatment on his patients, and it’s been recorded throughout time since this point as an effective treatment. Isn’t nature incredible?

5. Ginger for Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a painful condition in which the stomach produces too much acid. The acid makes its way up the esophagus, causing significant discomfort. However, did you know that drinks like ginger ale can be robust against this ailment?

You don’t need to buy the sugary store-bought varieties, as you can make your ale with fresh ginger and carbonated water.

6. Garlic for Holistic Wound Treatments

Due to garlic’s antiseptic and antibacterial properties, this spicey vegetable is perfect for holistic wound care. Sure, it’s often called the ‘stinking rose,’ but slicing some and putting it over a wound will fight the infection like first-aid creams. There are so many ways you can incorporate garlic into healthy living that it’s something you should always have on hand.

7. Almonds for Headaches

The next time you have a pounding headache, reach for a handful of almonds to ease the pain. The almonds’ salicin and magnesium will help alleviate inflammation and work on the pain receptors, which will bring you relief.

8. Cayenne Pepper, a Holistic Treatment for Muscle Aches

It would help if you made a paste with cayenne pepper for those sore muscles. Remember, a little goes a long way, but you’ll find it’s as strong as the cooling-based menthol products often touted for quick relief.

9. Magnesium for Anxiety

According to the National Institute of Medicine, more than half the American population is deficient in magnesium. When your body lacks the vitamins needed to thrive, it can throw your whole system off balance. Did you know that many people notice a marked improvement in their anxiety and pain levels when they add magnesium to their diet?

10. Coconut Oil for Dry Skin

Coconut oil has various uses but works wonders on dry skin as a lotion. Simply rub a bit of this potent oil on your dry and brittle skin, and you will watch your skin be rehydrated and soothed.

healthy living

11. Green Tea for Holistic, Healthy Weight Loss

Green tea is a healthy drink to assist you in your weight loss journey. As a holistic aid, it can mobilize your fat cells and cause them to break down. Once broken, they’re easily flushed from your system.

12. Apple Cider Vinegar for Blood Sugar Control

Apple cider vinegar has numerous benefits that can assist you in healthy living, but one of the best is its ability to control blood sugar. According to the American Diabetes Association, taking just 1–2 tablespoons of diluted ACV can help to control the impact carbs have on your system.

13. Aloe Vera for Burns

Aloe vera can be used topically or taken internally. If you have a burn, simply applying the salve from the inside of the plant can be beneficial in easing the pain and promoting healing. Aloe vera can be used in many aspects of healthy living.

14. Black Cherry Juice for Gout

Gout is a painful arthritic condition that settles into the joints. It often bothers the big toe, ankle, knees, and sometimes the shoulders or hips. However, drinking pure, organic cherry juice has proven beneficial. The juice helps reduce uric acid levels in the blood, which causes the inflammatory condition.

15. Oregano Oil for Bacterial Infections

Oregano is often used in Italian cooking, but as a tincture, oregano can be a powerful antibiotic. This oil contains two potent phenols, which help to wipe out harmful bacteria and germs. It boosts antioxidants, which fight common ear and yeast infections.

16. Acupuncture (Performed at a holistic health practice, don’t try this yourself!)

One can’t discuss holistic treatments and healthy living without considering acupuncture. This ancient Chinese medicine is very effective at pain relief. By inserting thin needles into specific points in the body, it helps to dull pain receptors. According to The Mayo Clinic, this holistic approach can stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissues, which can even be used for stress relief.

17. Milk Thistle for Liver Problems

The liver’s job is to flush toxins from your body. This vital organ can become damaged from too many over-the-counter pain relievers and being overweight. Thankfully, milk thistle has proven to be a great herb to stimulate cell repair and reduce injury to your liver.

18. Dandelion Tea for Heart Health

Excessive inflammation in the body can cause all sorts of issues. So removing excess water is essential to help with blood pressure and your heart.

This plant is a natural diuretic used for centuries to help flush the body. It’s also known to help with high cholesterol and is a good source of vitamin A.

19. Cupping (Usually performed by a specially-trained holistic healer)

Cupping is another holistic treatment that many people use for pain. These cups are suctioned onto the body to stimulate blood flow to a particular region. It’s known to be helpful with gastrointestinal diseases, circulation issues, and dermatologic illnesses, and it helps to enhance areas of weakness.

20. Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is often thought of to manage back pain. While it certainly helps with this problem, it’s also great to incorporate into healthy living. Chiropractors are holistic practitioners. They focus on putting the body back into proper alignment, which helps to bring harmony to the system.

These professionals can treat anything that involves the muscles, joints, bones, and connective tissues within the body. Most people feel great after an adjustment, and this natural treatment has no side effects.

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Final Thoughts on Holistic Treatments for Healthy Living

Healthy living is becoming popular as people are tired of the sickness that plagues their bodies from unhealthy lifestyles. There are many facets to this type of living, including using a holistic approach to treat what ails you. From garlic to dandelions and even milk thistle, Mother Nature has something powerful to help your body thrive.

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