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Psychology Explains Why Domestic Violence Victims Are Afraid to Leave

April 15, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

Domestic violence is a scary reality for many people worldwide. Whether you’re a victim or survivor or know someone in an abusive relationship, it’s frightening. Many people don’t understand why domestic violence victims are afraid to leave, but they have many valid reasons.

If you suspect domestic violence affects your loved one’s life, you might wonder why they don’t leave. It seems like a simple concept to pack their belongings and walk out. However, there is much more to it than simply walking away from an abusive relationship.

Domestic violence can affect men and women, but statistics show that women are more susceptible. You’ll understand their situation better by understanding why they’re afraid to leave. It’s a scary experience, and not everyone makes it out alive each time.

Signs of Domestic Violence in a Relationship

Domestic violence victims don’t like telling others about their violent partner, but you can watch for some clues. If someone suddenly starts missing work when they didn’t before, it could indicate a violent situation. Healing injuries with far-fetched explanations are also clues to know.

A victim of domestic violence will likely show nervousness and anxiety when their phone rings, too. If you can hear what their partner is saying on the other end of the phone, you might recognize anger. It’s hard to know since domestic violence victims don’t often admit it, but people can usually figure it out.

Additionally, it’s a red flag if you are close to someone but haven’t met their partner. Many victims will keep their partners away so their loved ones don’t recognize the controlling and harmful behavior.

However, if you have met their partner, you might recognize rude mannerisms and alarming actions. Other times, an abuser can hide their red flags when others are around, too. It could go either way, so watch for both scenarios.

Who Is at Risk and How People Become Domestic Violence Victims

The statistics on domestic violence are alarming, with almost 35% of women experiencing some form of violence. No one goes into a relationship assuming they’ll become a victim of abuse, and their abuser does an excellent job of hiding it for a while. The abuser will wait until their partner is attached, and then they’ll slowly start to change.

When the victim realizes what’s happening, it’s often too late. They either can’t leave due to fear or because they are tied to the relationship too much.

Abuse isn’t always physical, either. Domestic violence victims can also experience mental, emotional, or sexual abuse. Each type of abuse impacts the victim, so it’s impossible to compare the worse.

The longer the abuse occurs, the worst it will get. An abuser’s behavior will continue to escalate, a scary thought when a person feels stuck in the relationship. It’s not that the victim wants to be abused, but they stay for many reasons that can be hard to understand.

No matter race, religion, income level, or education, domestic violence can happen to anyone. Women between the ages of 16 and 24 are more likely to become victims, but even that isn’t a guarantee. The abuse can come from a partner or spouse, which are the ones you put your faith in.

People who are unaware of the warning signs or patterns are more likely to become victims of domestic violence. Recognizing these signs and taking action is crucial, and in such situations, consulting a domestic violence attorney can be an essential step in protecting your rights and safety. Knowing what to watch for and what to do when you recognize abuse can save your life.

The Stages of Domestic Violence

Understanding that domestic violence occurs in stages can help you see why it gets so far before the victim realizes it. It doesn’t happen all at once, and it might take a while for the abuser to reveal themselves.

Stage One: Charming Their Victim

At the beginning of the relationship, the abuser makes it seem like the victim is in control. They might idolize their future victim, making them feel unique and in charge. The abuser will praise their partner, making it seem like they love everything about them.

However, it will slowly change once they know they have you. There isn’t always a sign at the beginning of the relationship because these people hide it so well.

Stage Two: Isolation

The next step in a domestic violence situation is in isolation. An abuser will do whatever they can to take their partner away from friends and loved ones. It’s often problematic for a victim to realize what’s happening because the abuser makes it seem like they are doing their partner a favor.

The abuser might convince their partner to quit their job, especially if they’ve been there for years and love their work. A toxic partner will want to remove anyone from their life who might notice the red flags. Plus, they want to control every part of their victim’s lives, including financial, physical, and psychological.

Stage Three: Threats of Violence to the Domestic Violence Victims

The third step in the pattern is the threat of violence. Abusers want to know how their victims will react, so they begin with threats before acting on them. Sometimes the abuser will buy firearms or other weapons and keep them nearby at all times, so you know they’re in control.

They might not have touched you during this stage, but the threats are enough. If they threaten you or keep weapons nearby as a reminder, it’s a sign of escalation.

Stage Four: Things Escalate

Eventually, the abuser will take things to the physical level. They’ll see their threats through and start inflicting physical or sexual pain. If they stick to emotional or mental abuse, it’ll escalate intensely during this stage.

By this point in the relationship, the victim is in the romance so profoundly that they can’t see a way out. Either they still love the abuser or have too many ties to them to walk away without a second thought.

Why Domestic Violence Victims Are Afraid to Leave

The reasons why these partners stay together are many. Here are just a few.

1 – Domestic Violence Victims Don’t Know They’re Abused

Even in the worst moments, victims don’t always realize what’s happening to them. Instead, they view themselves as strong people who can handle loving a troubled person. They also believe they are the only ones who can help their abuser overcome their problems.

2 – It’s Dangerous to Leave

Leaving an abusive relationship isn’t as easy as it sounds to most people. While a typical relationship breakup is sad, it doesn’t generally lead to scary or threatening situations. However, ending an abusive relationship can turn deadly in some cases.

Many domestic violence murders happen after the victim leaves the relationship. Once the victim ends things, the abuser believes they have nothing to lose and commits murder. If they don’t murder their victim, they might stalk them for many years, deny them financial resources, and manipulate the court system when children are involved.

3 – Domestic Violence Victims Fear For Their Child’s Safety

The court system often gives unsupervised visitation time with the kids to the abuser. Victims know this is a possibility and can’t fathom leaving their children unsupervised by a violent person. If they stay in the relationship, they’ll always ensure the anger isn’t taken out on their kids.

4 – Domestic Violence Victims Cannot Meet Their Financial Needs Alone

Many abusers don’t allow their victims to work; if they do, it’ll be at a job that doesn’t allow financial independence. It can seem impossible to get out when a victim doesn’t have the financial means to escape.

5- Some Domestic Violence Victims Have Nowhere to Go and Lack Family Support

Since the abuser isolates his victim before the abuse begins, they might not have anywhere to go. They’ll be afraid to turn to the people they shut out of their lives.

Many domestic violence victims feel alone in the situation. They don’t always know how common it is and that many support groups exist. Victims also don’t know how many resources are available to help them escape the relationship.

6 – They Think It Will Get Better

Victims convince themselves that things will get better eventually. They continually replay the excellent times to cope with the new reality.

After the first abuse incident, the victim will likely convince themselves it was an isolated experience. Then, when it happens again, they convince themselves it’s their fault, not their abuser’s.

The Reasons Why Domestic Violence Victims Stay May Change as Their Lives Change

When the abuse begins, the victim likely believes it’s just a phase and will end. Then, they think it’s their fault the abuse occurs and try to change themselves. After that, they might believe the abuser when they say they’ll change or go to counseling.

It becomes harder to leave the relationship as time passes, and the reasons keep piling up. The abuse and control escalate, and the abuser continues creating a situation it’s impossible to escape.

Final Thoughts on Psychology Explains Why Domestic Violence Victims Are Afraid to Leave

These reasons why domestic violence victims are afraid to leave aren’t the only reasons. Understanding the situation is hard for people who haven’t been abused. The information provided here can help you get a better grasp of it.

If your loved one is in an abusive relationship, you can’t force them to leave it. However, you can ensure the victim knows they always have your support.

3 Reasons Why People Lose Their Filter as They Age

April 14, 2022 by Kristen Lawrence

Researchers have figured out why people become more honest and lose their filter later in life. You may have noticed that your grandparents or other elders seem to say whatever comes to mind.

For example, your grandpa might say he doesn’t like your cooking, or your grandma may comment on your weight. They’re not trying to be rude; they tend to blurt out their thoughts impulsively.

Even if they make slightly offensive comments, we usually chalk it to our grandparents losing their filters as they age. This rationale makes it easier to laugh things off and not take what they say personally.

When someone lacks a filter, it means they’re straightforward when talking to people. They may say things without thinking or considering who they’re speaking with. Sometimes their comments may seem rude, harsh, or disrespectful because they have lost the ability to read social cues.

It’s also worth noting that the elderly tend to have fewer social interactions in general. They may forget how to interact as they often don’t converse with people. For most of us, we have to filter our thoughts every day depending on the social situations.

For instance, you wouldn’t speak to your boss the same way you talk with your spouse. Interactions with your boss probably remain formal and businesslike, whereas you can relax more around your significant other. We all use filters subconsciously to adhere to socially acceptable rules and behaviors.

Your filter depends on specific cognitive functions such as inhibition, which prevents you from saying the first thought that enters your mind. Your filter also relies on social cognition, or the ability to cognize and predict the behavior and intentions of others. Social awareness allows us to determine how to act in specific social settings and adjust our behavior accordingly.

The prefrontal cortex located in the frontal lobes of our brains serves as our filter. However, when this part of the brain functions improperly, we may begin to lose this filter.

3 Reasons Why People Lose Their Filter as They Age

Here is how our “filter” connects to aging.

1 – Our brains shrink as we age.

One reason people lose their filter stems from brain atrophy or the natural shrinking of the brain. This shrinkage impairs brain cell communication, especially in the frontal lobes. Since the prefrontal cortex helps us gauge socially acceptable behaviors, abnormalities in this region can affect social function.

Studies found a link between age-related brain atrophy in the frontal lobes with decreased inhibition and social cognition. Other studies found that the elderly don’t react the same way as young adults to socially awkward circumstances. For instance, older adults tend to have a harder time understanding sarcasm and tactless comments. Therefore, people may lose their filter as they age simply because of natural processes in the brain.

2 – They may have a neurodegenerative disease.

Sometimes, older people may lose their filter due to serious cognitive conditions, such as a brain injury, stroke, or dementia. One type of dementia, in particular, called frontotemporal dementia, can cause personality changes such as losing inhibitions or displaying socially inappropriate behavior.

It’s more than just social awkwardness, as these behaviors are in stark contrast to the person’s usual character. Other symptoms may include inflexibility, loss of emotional warmth, apathy, distractedness, difficulty planning, changes in appetite, and decline in personal hygiene.

These symptoms usually manifest when a person is in their 50s or 60s. Therefore, it’s important to have annual doctor visits to catch signs in their early stages.

3 – Older adults don’t care what others think anymore.

As we age, we feel more self-confident and less worried about others’ opinions. Younger adults may feel more pressure and judgment from peers, so they’re more self-conscious. However, older adults report feeling less shame, embarrassment, or guilt, probably because they’ve finally learned to accept themselves. They also tend to have higher levels of fulfillment and happiness than younger adults.

So, maybe as we get older, we learn to feel comfortable in our skin and lose our filter. After all, it takes a lot of energy to worry about what others think. What’s the point in wasting your golden years fretting about everyone else’s opinions, anyway?

Now you won’t feel as offended next time grandpa knocks your cooking skills. Maybe that’s just his way of giving you some constructive criticism. Even if it isn’t, you know that yelling out random thoughts is just a sign of aging. Try not to take it too personally; however, if the comments seem out of place or extreme, perhaps suggest a doctor’s visit just in case.

Of course, having no filter isn’t just limited to older adults. Today, many young people feel comfortable in their skin and have no problem being honest with others. That’s certainly a positive trait; however, it’s crucial to remain discreet and polite during conversations. As long as you can say what’s on your mind without being inappropriate, having no inhibitions does have advantages.

Some benefits of having no filter include being approachable, making others feel comfortable, and getting what you want more quickly. For instance, if you’re direct and assertive with others, they’re more likely to be open to your persuasion. Not to mention, if you’re a straightforward person, you probably have a good sense of humor too, and that’s always a plus!

Final Thoughts on Why Older People Have No Filter

As you get older, you tend to lose your filter for several reasons. Unfortunately, a couple of these reasons stem from cognitive decline due to aging. As you age, the prefrontal cortex in your brain shrinks, which impacts brain cell communication. Plus, the onset of dementia and other neurodegenerative disorders can accelerate brain aging and lead to loss of inhibition. But, on a more positive note, losing your filter can happen just because you feel self-confident and no longer care what others think.

Whatever the reason, it’s perfectly normal to lose your filter as you age. Caring about what others think keeps you in a mental prison, and it seems like such an unnecessary burden to carry in your later years.

The Ultimate Self-Care Question: What Do You Really Need Today?

April 14, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

It’s common for busy adults to push themselves too hard. When you overdo it and neglect self-care, it’s easy to lose sight of the essential things in your life. Asking yourself ultimate self-care questions can help you refocus and take the time to care for yourself.

Life constantly changes, and each change brings new necessities and desires. It also means that the best self-care practices change, too. Ask yourself the ultimate self-care questions anytime you’re unsure of what you need in your life.

What you need in your life might change daily, weekly, or monthly, requiring constant self-reflection. The differences might be subtle, but you can recognize them if you know what to ask yourself. When you don’t acknowledge what you need each day, you’ll reach a stagnant place in life and feel permanently stuck.

You don’t have to spend much time relaxing or having alone time to take care of your well-being. Taking time for yourself can make a difference and help you recharge. When you recharge, you can face the rest of the day with a more positive mindset.

The Ultimate Self-Care Question to Figure Out What You Need

If you lead a busy life, likely, you’re not practicing self-care enough. You’ll put other people before yourself because you think that’s how it’s supposed to be or you’re obligated. However, the benefits of the self-care show that taking time for yourself is essential to your well-being and your ability to care for others.

When caring for yourself, the ultimate self-care question is simple. You only must ask yourself, “what do I need right now?” While it’s only one question, it might not be as simple.

After you ask yourself what you need right now, you must figure it out. You can ask yourself a series of questions to figure out what you need.

Don’t guilt-trip yourself as you work your way through the list of ultimate self-care questions. The goal is to recognize the areas you need to focus on, allowing you to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. Consider taking notes as you answer the questions so you can remember what your initial thoughts were.

Once you answer these questions, don’t forget about them. With each change in your life, you’ll want to readdress the essential areas you must focus on. You’ll likely answer the questions differently later, proving how each season of your life differs.

Check in with yourself regularly to see what you need at each point. Be active and consistent in your reflection to always be at your best. Ask yourself the following questions:

What do I need?

Sometimes answering this question is simple, but other times, it isn’t as straightforward. When you know you need to eat healthier or drink more water, you can quickly figure out the problem. However, sometimes figuring out what you need immediately requires delving deeper and asking more questions.

What do I desire?

While your needs are more important than your desires, you must give in to them sometimes. Fulfilling your desires helps you lead a happy life and allows you to find joy each day. With happiness, you can look for the good around you and tackle challenges with a positive mind.

What is true today?

Acknowledging your inner truths daily can help you determine the answer to the ultimate self-care question. By recognizing what you believe, you can shift your thinking as necessary. It can also help you focus on the things you’re passionate about.

What is my intention for today?

When you know your daily intention, you’ll know what to focus on. Being intentional allows you to let go of the things that aren’t as important, giving you a chance to breathe.

Choosing an intention word is also beneficial for helping you achieve your emotional goals. If you select a term such as happiness, you’ll find yourself looking for things to be happy about. Whatever your intention word is, you’ll be more in tune to that aspect of life.

What are my priorities for today?

When you prioritize your tasks, you avoid creating an overloaded to-do list. If you don’t prioritize anything, it can lead to you feeling overwhelmed with too much to get done.

Am I getting enough sleep?

If you aren’t getting enough sleep, it can cause many issues in your life. You won’t have the energy to give your all to any part of your life, and you’re more likely to have negative thoughts. Ask yourself this question and address the situation appropriately.

What is causing unnecessary stress in my life?

Constant stress will leave you feeling an imbalance between your life and the world around you. It will seem like you’re going through the motions without feeling fulfilled. Recognizing unnecessary stress can help identify where you need to implement some self-care.

What can I cut out of my day to make more time for joy?

Asking yourself this question helps determine which areas of your life aren’t serving you anymore. When you realize what you can do without, you’ll find the time to care for yourself. Then, you’ll lighten your load by eliminating unnecessary tasks for good.

Am I nurturing beneficial relationships?

Think about your support system and the people who want to see you do well in life. If you aren’t nurturing those relationships, it can hinder your mental health and well-being.

The Ultimate Self-Care Is the Activity That Will Heal Your Soul

Self-care is more than just pampering yourself or taking hours to relax in a bubble bath. Instead, it’s about reflecting and addressing each area of your life. Determining which areas need work can help you improve each aspect of your daily tasks.

1 – Meditation

Sometimes self-care is all about sitting quietly for ten minutes. This quick meditation session can remind you to focus on your body, self-awareness, and the essential aspects of your life. Meditation helps when you feel disconnected from yourself, helping you be more self-aware.

Practicing meditation allows you to find a connection between your mind, body, and soul. You’ll know what you need and find healthy alignment and balance.

2 – Take a Nap

When you’re busy, the last thing you think you have time for is a nap. However, taking a nap can make all the difference in how you approach the rest of your day. If you can’t nap, take it as easy as possible and give yourself time to rest.

3 – Slow Down

You must slow down when you realize that you’re doing too much at once and going too fast. You don’t have to rush to the next stage of your life when you can embrace where you are right now. If you feel burnt out, stressed, unhappy, or disconnected, it’s a sign that you’re doing too much.

Take some time to be still and silent to find balance again. When you slow down, you’ll find peace and happiness once again.

4 – Spend Time Journaling

Writing in a journal can help when you feel emotionally overwhelmed. It helps get your thoughts and feelings out on paper, allowing you to acknowledge them and work through the overwhelming sensation.

5 – Do Gentle Stretches

Gentle stretching can help when your body feels sore, allowing you to focus on other things. It energizes your mind and body and can help release negative thinking.

6 – Use Positive Affirmations

Affirmations can help you refocus and shift your mindset. They can help you get through each day and remind you of the truths about yourself and your life. Positive affirmations help you release negativity and focus on the good things about yourself and the world around you.

You can write your affirmations specific to your needs and desires. Or, you can find pre-written ones related to your situation.

7 – Go to Bed Earlier

If you need more rest or relaxation, make it a point to go to bed earlier. Your mind will have a chance to process your thoughts, and you’ll have an easier time dozing off. It will also give you more energy to get through tomorrow.

8 – Do Yoga

Yoga is a great way to relax and practice self-care. The stretching exercises bring balance to your mind and body, making you feel better overall.

9 – Find Something to Laugh About

Laughter seems to improve everything, so find something to laugh about daily. You can watch a standup comedy or talk to someone who always makes you laugh. Plus, you can watch funny videos or find another humorous activity.

Final Thoughts on The Ultimate Self-Care Question: What Do You Need Today?

There are no right or wrong answers for the ultimate self-care. It’s all about regularly checking in with yourself and addressing the concerning areas of your life right now. What is suitable for you right now but is different than what’s best later on so it requires regular reflection.

As you ask yourself these ultimate self-care questions, create a safe space. Your well-being improves exponentially when you love yourself and practice self-compassion as you care for your needs and desires. You can live your best life when you know which areas need your attention.

Self-care allows you to experience a balance in life, helping you feel connected to the people and things you love. Use these ultimate self-care questions to address your needs and desires.

Emotionally Reactive People Display These 7 Behaviors and Don’t Realize It

April 14, 2022 by Deborah Tayloe

Since humans are emotional beings, overacting occasionally is not abnormal. For the most part, you may be level-headed and try to get all your facts straight. However, if you’re emotionally reactive, you often dramatize events and face the ever-mounting consequences.

Emotional reactivity is an overaction of emotion that’s out of proportion. When the situation is emotionally charged, the person’s perception changes. They can’t focus and see what’s happening or comprehend what’s being said, as they hear and see things with a skewed perception.

Have you ever been around someone you considered “high strung?” Other common adjectives that describe this person are overly sensitive or too emotional. It’s a common misconception that these folks are disorganized and unsuccessful.

Emotional reactivity affects people from all walks of life. Such behavior doesn’t have socioeconomic boundaries. These folks that tend to overreact can be family, friends, coworkers, or you may be one yourself.

How Can You Tell if You’re Emotionally Reactive?

You may have emotional overreactions if you tend to react to almost everything. You may brush it off as being sensitive or having a bad temper. Here are seven common behaviors that people with emotional reactivity display.

1. The Most Innocent Comments Offend Emotionally Reactive People

Have your family or friends ever told you you had “thin skin?” They are telling you in a friendly way that you are emotionally reactive. You may often take comments the wrong way and be offended and resentful.

Let’s say you and some coworkers are on a coffee break, and someone sees you using lots of sugar. They say lightheartedly that the extra sugar will make you sweeter. You’re instantly upset with them for insinuating that you have a sour disposition, but this is not how they meant it to come across.

2. You Often Overreact to Various Situations

Emotionally reactive people often can’t differentiate between severe problems and trivial matters. Maybe everything is a big deal for you, and you’ll overreact accordingly. In your mind, there’s no difference between a firecracker and a hydrogen bomb.

Such a mindset usually makes you assume the worst-case scenario. Your emotions may go haywire when you hear a little noise in your car. You’re sure the whole motor will go out and it’ll cost thousands of dollars to replace.

3. Others Don’t Feel Comfortable Around Emotionally Reactive People

Spending time around an emotionally reactive person is like tiptoeing through a field of landmines. Your friends and family virtually walk on eggshells to keep from offending you. It makes for an emotionally strained conversation that nobody is enjoying.

Plus, your emotional volatility often creates negative energy. Pessimism can affect everyone in a group. It’s something for you to consider when you notice that your circle of friends is getting smaller by the day.

4. You Get Angry and Indignant When Things Don’t Go Your Way

Younger children are notorious for having emotional outbursts when they don’t get what they want. There’s nothing like being in a crowded line in the grocery store, and your toddler is having a tantrum over a small plastic toy. You quickly give in and throw it in the cart to save yourself more embarrassment.

Department stores depend on these emotional outbursts for optimal sales. That’s why they fill the checkout lanes with shiny things at children’s eye level. No wonder they call these overpriced goodies “impulse buys.”

Children often overreact because their emotional responses haven’t matured. Unfortunately, some children grow into adults and still have such outbursts. If you’re emotionally reactive, you’re prone to adult temper tantrums when things don’t go as planned.

5. You Allow Circumstances to Control Your Reactions and Don’t Take Responsibility

The life of an emotionally reactive person can feel exhausting and out of control. Instead of taking charge of your life and emotions, you’re in a perpetual reaction cycle. This mindset often makes you feel like you’re driving speedily in a car without a steering wheel.

It’s easy to shift the blame when you feel like you’ve lost control of your life. You may believe that circumstances are always against you. If you lose your temper, it’s not your fault because someone made you do it.

Blame shifting is often a trait of a toxic personality. It often leads to hostility and abuse toward others, especially those closest to you. It’s a situation that can quickly destroy personal and professional relationships.

6. The Least Provocation Can Send An Emotionally Reactive Person into a Blind Rage

Have you ever been told that your temper is like a short fuse? The least little spark can cause an emotional explosion. Volatile rage is often a precursor to abuse that can turn lethal.

If you have these tendencies, others never know which version of you they’ll get. You may be happily chatting one moment, and the next minute, you’re a raging grizzly. Afterward, you may return to the merry conversationalist as if nothing had happened.

Such behavior can also lead to resentment and holding grudges. You may feel that your temper flare was justified. It can also cause you to feel paranoid and angry at the whole world.

7. You Often Hear What You Want to Hear

Emotionally reactive folks aren’t known for their excellent listening skills. You may hear what the other person’s saying, but you’re not listening. Instead, you interrupt and are preoccupied with what you want to say next.

Misunderstandings are inevitable since you haven’t listened to and thought about the other person’s statements. You may overreact and create an emotional tsunami over something you only assumed or misunderstood. Excellent communication is the backbone of solid relationships; poor communication will destroy them.

How to Reduce the Chances of Being Emotionally Reactive

The first step to ending the cycle of emotional reactivity is to admit that you have a problem. There’s no shame in such admission; it shows you’re ready for a change. Here are some suggestions to help you be less reactive.

1. Think First

One of the main reasons that people overreact is they speak or do things before they think. They’ve already had an emotional backlash after discovering it’s been a vast misunderstanding. Before you react, take a deep breath, don’t speak, and think for a few minutes.

2. Be an Active Listener

How many times have you blown your emotional fuses before knowing the facts? The best way to avoid misunderstandings and overreaction is to listen actively. It’s going beyond hearing the other person’s words and taking them to heart.

Active listening is a valuable skill that can help you in all your interpersonal relationships. Listen to what the other person is saying without interrupting or surmising. Think about what they’ve said and pause for a few seconds before you respond to them.

Try to keep neutral body language that doesn’t show impatience or underlying aggression. Do your best to mirror the speaker’s emotions and ask for clarification if you don’t understand something. Not only will you be a more effective communicator, but you can exert more control over your emotions.

3. Identify What Causes You to Be Emotionally Reactive

If you’ve overreacted to something, try to use it as a learning experience. What were the circumstances that caused you to go into an emotional tailspin? Was it a conversation or possibly a person who often gets on your nerves?

These are called triggers because they “trigger” your emotional outbursts. Once you know your triggers, you’ll better control your emotions. The next time you feel like you’re going to overreact, realize these are just triggers and avoid falling victim to them.

4. Consider Emotional Outlets

Frequently people overreact because they have so much emotion bottled up in their minds. Instead of letting your emotions control you, discover ways to redirect them. Dealing with your feelings can help diffuse your in an emotionally charged conversation or situation.

Meditation is an excellent way to learn how to control your breathing and calm your mind. You know how to acknowledge your thoughts compassionately and let them go. All you need is a quiet space and about twenty minutes to relax, breathe, and be present.

Journaling is another essential tool for personal introspection. It’s a line of communication between you and your inner voice. It also provides thoughts for reflection and dealing with your feelings and what caused them.

You can also consider any creative outlet that you enjoy. It can be art, music, literature, or any fun hobby. If you don’t have a hobby, there’s no better time than now to learn one. Hobbies help you relax so your nerves and emotions aren’t tense.

Final Thoughts on Behaviors Emotionally Reactive People Display

Being in control of your emotions is a work in progress. You’re human, and everybody has their overly emotional moments. Your feelings can be more balanced when you understand triggers and some underlying causes of your overreaction.

Researchers Reveal Connection Between Narcissism and Aggression

April 14, 2022 by Kristen Lawrence

A 2021 Ohio State University study reveals a strong link between narcissism and aggression. Researchers performed a comprehensive analysis of 437 global studies and found that narcissism also increases the risk for violence.

They determined an association between narcissism and aggression across all dimensions of narcissism and various aggressive behaviors. The study yielded similar results regardless of gender, age, birth country, or education levels.

Also, even individuals who didn’t suffer from pathological narcissism showed higher aggression levels. In other words, narcissism within a normal range still correlates with aggression.

“It is a pretty straightforward message: Narcissism is a significant risk factor for aggressive and violent behavior across the board,” said Brad Bushman, co-author of the study and professor of communication at The Ohio State University.

Sophie Kjaervik, a graduate student in communication at Ohio State, led the study. It was published in the journal Psychological Bulletin.

“The link we found between narcissism and aggression was significant — it was not trivial in size,” Kjaervik said. “The findings have important real-world implications.”

Researchers Reveal the Connection Between Narcissism and Aggression

The research team compiled and investigated data across many studies to perform a comprehensive analysis. In the meta-analysis, they poured over data from 437 independent studies that included 123,043 participants.

According to Bushman, one of the hallmarks of narcissism is having an inflated ego. Narcissists also have a sense of entitlement, the constant need for admiration, lack of empathy, and may act arrogant or manipulative.

Two Primary Types of Narcissism

There are also two types of narcissistic behavior: grandiose (individuals with high self-esteem) and vulnerable (those with low self-esteem). We’ll go over the traits of each below.

Grandiose Narcissism

People who exhibit this behavior are the following:

aggressive
dominant
self-confident
lacking empathy and sensitivity
even more self-centered than vulnerable types
the product of a childhood where parents instilled them with a superiority complex

Vulnerable Narcissism

Those who portray this behavior tend to act:

more sensitive
inadequate
either superior or inferior depending on the mood
offended or anxious when others aren’t praising them
protective of themselves because of childhood neglect or abuse

Regardless of the type of narcissism, the researchers found an association between them and higher aggression levels. Types of aggression measured in the studies included physical, verbal, direct or indirect, bullying, and being taken out on innocent people.

“Individuals who are high in narcissism are not particularly picky when it comes to how they attack others,” Kjaervik said.

The findings revealed that online and offline bullying had ties to narcissist behavior.

“That’s a highly important finding now that we live in an online world,” she said.

Bushman said that people with high levels of narcissism lashed out to others more often and had a “cold, deliberate and proactive” approach to their aggression.

The Dangers of Narcissism

The study also found that people high in narcissism had more aggressive traits, even when unprovoked. However, the risk for aggression increased when they felt instigated, such as being insulted or ignored.

One surprising finding researchers made was that narcissism had almost as strong a link to violence as it did to milder aggressive acts. Bushman says that violence isn’t as expected and is more challenging to predict than less severe types of aggression. In the study, researchers defined violence as the intention to inflict physical harm on others, such as injury or death.

He added that the results match other findings implying that narcissism may play a role in severely violent acts such as mass shootings. Some people believe that the link between narcissism and aggression is more vital in more individualistic, atomized countries like the US. However, the findings discovered a link between narcissism and aggression even in collectivist nations.

They found similar results whether the research participants attended college or lived in the more significant population.

Bushman added that these results don’t just apply to people diagnosed with narcissistic personality disorder (NPD). Since almost everyone falls somewhere on the spectrum of narcissism, it’s probable that most people will show aggression at some point. Of course, those with pathological narcissism tend to have the highest levels of aggression and act out more frequently.

“All of us are prone to being more aggressive when we are more narcissistic,” Bushman said.

He said another distinctive finding from the study was how narcissists react when they feel threatened.

“Our results suggest provocation is a key moderator of the link between narcissism and aggression,” Bushman said.

“Those who are high in narcissism have thin skins, and they will lash out if they feel ignored or disrespected.”

Tips on Dealing With Narcissists and Aggression

Watch out for “love bombing.” If you’re dating a narcissist, they may initially shower you with affection and attention. This isn’t always negative, but a narcissist will use this tactic to lure you deeper into the relationship. They may seem friendly, but keep your guard up; it’s disguised toxicity.
Know your self-worth. Narcissists prey on people with fragile self-esteem or those with an empathetic nature. Having compassion for others is hardly a character flaw, but some people will take advantage of your kindness. You’re less likely to fall victim to a narcissist if you’re self-confident and don’t need validation from others.
Leave the situation, if possible. Narcissists can get better, but only if they seek help. Remaining in a relationship or living with an unhealed narcissist will only cause you mental or even physical harm.

However, we’d like to add that we’re not here to bash people with a genuine mental disorder. Narcissists usually have a troubled past and childhood and deserve help as much as anyone else.

Final Thoughts on the Link Between Narcissism and Aggression

A recent Ohio State University study found a strong association between high levels of narcissism and aggression. They examined 437 independent studies worldwide and discovered similar results in various age groups, genders, birth countries, and education levels. Troublingly, they also determined a link between narcissism and more significant instances of violence.

This isn’t to say that all narcissists will act aggressive and violent, but it’s something to watch out for when dealing with narcissistic personalities.

No, You’re Not a Mean Mom, You’re Just Being a Parent

April 13, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

Parenting is hard because being a parent often results in your child thinking you’re a mean mom. Sometimes, even if you know you did the right thing, you’ll experience guilt because your child is upset. However, you’re not a mean mom when you’re just being a parent.

There will be times when you think you are too harsh or impatient. You might wonder if you fed them enough vegetables or gave them too much screentime. These thoughts of self-doubt are never-ending when you’re a parent because you want to do it all right.

Your child will sometimes add to the guilt by feeling upset about how you handled things. If you don’t give in to everything your child wants, they might think you’re mean. Their words will hurt, but rest assured that you’re not a mean mom.

Children often think their parent is mean when they don’t get their way all the time. If they are told ‘no’ or punished for misbehavior, the child likely won’t be happy about it. That’s okay because you’re just fulfilling your number one role as a parent.

Why Having and Enforcing Rules Isn’t Being Mean

When you put your foot down and enforce rules, you’re teaching your child more than either of you realize. You raise children who contribute positively to society. As they become adults, they’ll understand respecting others and being responsible.

Just because your child says you’re a mean mom doesn’t mean you’re a bad parent. Instead, it shows that you’re doing your job and expecting your child to be a good little human. You’re giving them the skills and knowledge they need to move through life.

Chances are, your kids will grow up to become adults who no longer think you were a mean mom. If they think you were mean, they’ll learn to appreciate the guidance you offered during their younger years. Raising kids is hard, but doing it right might give you adult children who thank you later.

Being mean implies being unkind or malicious, and you can easily see the difference between parenting and meanness. Of course, your child might not always recognize a difference at all, but you can reassure yourself. Children and parents view meanness differently, so don’t let your child’s words get to you.

Sixteen Times Your Child Might Think You Are a Mean Mom

In all honesty, being the parent enforcing all the rules isn’t easy. A mean mom would take the easy way out instead of using their energy to enforce rules that they’ll get guilt-tripped about later.

1 – When Teenagers Want to Make Their Own Rules, They’ll Cast You as a Mean Mom

Teenagers might think you’re mean if you want to know who their friends are and where they’re going. They won’t always be happy about curfews, doing well in school, or dressing appropriately. However, in these instances, it’s your job to be the “bad guy” and put your foot down.

2 – Making Them Finish Homework Before Having Fun

Your kids might not want to finish their homework before going somewhere with friends. They might not want to do the work at all. Each time you enforce these expectations, your child might become unhappy and deem you a mean mom.

However, even if your child isn’t thrilled, think of all the things you’re teaching them when you make them do homework. You teach them about meeting deadlines, practicing, and working hard to accomplish goals. Plus, it’ll make tests and other school work easier, too.

3 – Assigning Chores Might Make Children See You as a Mean Mom

Kids also tend to think parents who implement chores are mean, but that’s not true either. In a kid’s mind, these things might seem mean, but again, you’re only teaching them about life. You’re teaching them to clean up their space and help the family unit, both qualities that will follow them throughout their life.

4 – Waking Them Up for School

Most kids would stay home from school if you let them, but letting them skip isn’t helping. Even still, your child might call you a mean mom for waking them up in the morning. You can wake them up with a back rub or gentle words, and they’ll still call you mean.

5 – Children Think You’re a Mean Mom When You Prioritize Sleep

Children often want to stay up late, even when they have school the next day. When you enforce bedtimes to ensure they get enough sleep, they might think you’re being mean. Children need sleep to grow and develop, plus they need the energy to learn. You’re not being mean when you give them a bedtime instead of letting them stay up until they can’t anymore.

6 – Making Them Eat Nutritious Food

Not all children enjoy healthy food, but they still need nutrients to grow and develop. Letting them eat sweets and junk food might make them think you’re being nice, but it’s not the right way to parent. If they think you’re mean for asking them to eat some nutritional foods, that’s okay because you’re just being a parent.

Kids might also think you’re a mean parent if you force them to eat home-cooked meals. They might prefer fast food, but you’re not mean if you don’t do it often.

7 – Teaching Them to Earn Things

Children might want you to give them everything, but it doesn’t teach them to work for things. When you make your child earn what they want, you’ll teach them to do their part. Plus, it teaches them to save up money for what they want to buy.

8 – Asking Them to Clean Up After Themselves

Kids might think you’re a mean mom when you ask them to clean up after themselves. However, it’s essential to teach them to clean up their messes. If they think you’re mean for enforcing this rule, rest assured you’re just being a parent.

9 – You Don’t Let Them Hang Out with Sick Friends

Children don’t always understand how sickness spreads, and sometimes they might not care. Kids will risk getting sick to spend time with their friends, but it’s up to you to say no. You don’t want your child to get sick if you can avoid it.

10 – Not Letting Your Child Go Places When They’re Sick

When your child is sick, you will want to keep them home and away from others until they’re better. Your child might not enjoy this situation, but it’s part of being a parent. They might blame you for all of it, but remember that they don’t know the difference between being mean and being a parent yet.

11 – Encouraging Them to Take Care of Themselves

Some kids get frustrated when their parent asks them to take a bath or shower. Likewise, not all kids enjoy brushing their teeth. Enforcing these tasks makes you a good parent, even if your child views it differently.

12 – Showing Affection in Front of Their Friends

Kids reach an age where they don’t want you showing affection in front of their friends. They might not even want you to say “I love you”, but it’s okay if you do. Let your child think you’re a mean mom in this situation because you can never show them enough love.

13 – Not Letting Them Watch Inappropriate Movies or Shows

Your child might find inappropriate movies entertaining, but there’s a reason for the rating. Don’t be afraid to be called a mean mom for not letting your child watch something they shouldn’t.

14 – Passing on Playing with Them

While it’s nice to play with your kids, you don’t always have to. If you already do quite a bit with them and they throw a fit when you say ‘no’, ignore it. Don’t let their words get to you because kids need to hear no sometimes, especially regarding playing.

By not always playing with your kids, you teach them to be independent. It encourages individuality and creativity, and it teaches them to entertain themselves.

If you don’t want to join them on the swing set or have a water fight, you can pass on the experience. You want to teach your child that the world doesn’t revolve around them, or they’ll be in for quite a bit of disappointment later on in life. Plus, you deserve alone time sometimes, too.

15 – Not Sharing with Them Might Make You Feel Like a Mean Mom

Of course, you want to teach your child to share with others, but you also want to teach them about boundaries. If your child has a snack or meal, don’t feel bad for not sharing yours with them. Likewise, if you’re enjoying a rare treat, you can savor it without feeling guilty.

16 – Refusing to Cook Them a Separate Meal Makes You Seem Like a Mean Mom

If you provide dinner, you did your due diligence. You don’t have to make a different meal for your picky eater when they don’t want what you already made. Encourage kids to try what you made, pick out the parts they don’t like, and keep an open mind. Cooking separate meals will only encourage their pickiness.

Final Thoughts on Realizing You’re Not a Mean Mom, Just a Parent

Most children think they have a mean mom sometimes, but they don’t know that you’re just being a parent. If your child sees another parent who doesn’t enforce rules and caters to their child, they’ll have a negative view of how being a pare should look. Even still, keep being the parent you are and don’t let your child’s criticism get to you.

Your techniques will pay off when you raise good people who contribute positively to society. Plus, your children will become adults who likely look back and thank you for not giving in to everything they wanted.

Counselors Explain 12 Healthy Social Media Habits for Teenagers

April 13, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

Social media plays a central role in our lives and the lives of teens. Teenagers spend more time scrolling through their news feed and reacting to their friends’ posts. While it seems like a negative part of their life, it can be great if they implement some healthy social media habits.

Teenagers need socialization, and connecting with their peers gives them a sense of self. They turn to YouTube, Discord, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and other platforms to socialize with peers and express themselves. You can prevent the development of addictive habits by teaching them to prioritize their well-being.

While there are negative aspects to social media, there can be benefits instead. Social media isn’t going away, so the only thing to do is learn about healthy social media habits for teenagers. If you understand healthy habits, you can teach teenagers to practice them, making their experience beneficial.

The Benefits of Social Media

You might be surprised to learn there are many positive aspects to social media. With all of the news about scary things that happen online, it’s hard to see past it. However, these benefits of social media might help you see things differently.

Social media allows teenagers to:

Gather information and news
Stay connected to people in your life
Express themselves artistically and creatively
Find humor
Learn something new
Gain inspiration
Feel connected to the world around them
Experiment with identity
Share their opinions
Find entertainment

Twelve Healthy Social Media Habits for Teenagers

Healthy Social Media Habit #1 – Be Mindful and Use Social Media for Good

Social media connects teenagers to their friends and family, providing a powerful tool for sharing goodness. It also gives them a platform for doing and promoting good in the world around them.

If your teen isn’t sure what it means to use social media for good, spend time brainstorming with them. Come up with ideas together for using the internet positively. Talk about raising awareness on important issues, spreading positive messages, or highlighting their work.

When using social media for good, teenagers should also avoid negative self-talk. It’s easy to compare yourself to other people on the internet, but it causes negativity. Teach teenagers to be mindful of their thoughts as they scroll through their social media feeds.

Healthy Social Media Habit #2 – Talk Openly About Social Media

When you talk openly about social media, it creates a safe space for your teenager. They’ll feel comfortable sharing their struggles and celebrations that occur online. It also encourages them to talk to you when they need an outlet away from their online connections.

Start the discussion by asking which social media apps your teenagers are using. As your teen explains each one, ask questions but avoid sounding judgmental. You don’t want your teen to feel like they can’t openly and comfortably talk to you about these things.

Don’t freak out or say anything harsh if you disagree with their online activity. You don’t want teenagers to start hiding their posts or concealing which apps they’re on. There’s a fine line between talking openly and offering a lecture, and you should always avoid the latter.

Healthy Social Media Habit #3 – Spend Time with Real-life Friends

Social media is great for staying in contact with long-distance friends and family. However, it shouldn’t be the only form of socialization teenagers participate in. A healthy social media habit is to use platforms as an extra tool for nurturing real-life friendships.

Teenagers should still have an interpersonal connection with the people they’re closest to. If in-person conversations aren’t possible, teens should aim to include phone calls, video chats, and text messages in their daily lives.

Healthy Social Media Habit #4 – Fact Check Any News That Comes Across Social Media

It’s crucial to teach teenagers that what they read on social media isn’t always true. If they make it a habit to fact-check everything they read, they’ll develop essential skills. They’ll be able to differentiate between reliable and unreliable resources, helping them understand which things are real.

Fact-checking helps them keep their guard up when socializing online. Even famous people share misinformation sometimes, so it’s essential to teach teenagers and help them develop healthy habits.

Healthy Social Media Habit #5 – Don’t Use It as a Way to Cope

Many people, including adults, use social media as a coping mechanism. They turn to technology for comfort, but it only deepens negative feelings long-term. Instead, teenagers should recognize that being active, spending time with real-life friends, or expressing creativity are more beneficial coping techniques.

If teenagers know positive coping mechanisms, they’re less likely to use social media as a way to cope. It helps them develop healthy social media habits as they know when to disconnect.

Healthy Social Media Habit #6 – Separate Smartphones and Schoolwork

If someone wants to look at their phone, they won’t be able to focus on anything else for long. Teenagers should make a habit of leaving their phones in another room when doing schoolwork. Keeping it out of reach prevents distractions from wanting to scroll through social media as often.

If your teenager is safe at home, there’s no reason they need to be attached to their phone. Please encourage them to leave it sometimes, allowing them to focus on and process their schoolwork without distraction.

Healthy Social Media Habit #7 – Be Picky About What and Who They Follow

Many people don’t realize they can curate their feed. Curating is when they control what they see and hear on social media. When choosing what will appear in their feed, teens can ask themselves the following questions:

Does it make me feel bad about myself?
Is it giving me a negative perspective on the world around me?
Does it add drama or stress to my life?

Teenagers with healthy social media habits will unfollow people or pages that cause these situations and feelings. They’ll focus on filling their platforms will positivity and joy.

Healthy Social Media Habit #8 – Don’t Post Anything Without Thinking About It First

Teenagers should know to think about what they post before making it public. People often overshare online, leading to humiliation, cyberbullying, and other traumatic situations. Teach your teenager to consider whether their post is accurate, kind, or helpful.

Please encourage them to post only things they would be comfortable saying in public. Their post should also make them feel good about themselves and not cause anxiety for days to come. If it could cause any of these problems, it’s best to resist sharing it.

Healthy Social Media Habit #9 – Avoid Scrolling Before Bed

Many teenagers like to check their social media feeds before going to bed at night, but it’s a bad habit to practice. The blue light from electronic devices negatively impacts their sleep quality.

If they don’t get enough sleep, they can’t regulate their mood the next day. Avoiding social media before bed can make a difference in how much quality sleep they get each night.

Healthy Social Media Habit #10 – Set Time Limits and Take Frequent Breaks

Teenagers sometimes struggle to put their phones down and connect with the world around them. Enforcing time limits and frequent breaks makes them less susceptible to distraction.

If it helps, teach them to set their phone to “do not disturb” for a few hours each day. Then, their phone won’t vibrate or make noise during their social media break.

Encourage them to take breaks while leaving their phone behind, too. Studies show that those who spend less time on social media have a more positive mindset, making it essential to their well-being.

Additionally, if a teen notices that social media makes them anxious or depressed, they should take a break from it. They don’t have to sign in every day if it isn’t good for their mental health.

Healthy Social Media Habit #11 – Set and Enforce Personal Boundaries

Research shows that anxiety and depression eased when people spent less time online. Encourage teens to limit their time on social media by setting time limits and creating no-phone zones in your home. Consider making the dining room a place where phones aren’t allowed to encourage more familial bonding.

You can also teach teenagers to be intentional when using social media. If they have a reason for logging in, they’ll be more likely to stick to their boundaries. They’ll also be more aware of the type of material they’re seeing and hearing.

Healthy Social Media Habit #12 – Living in the Moment

If teenagers can live in the moment, they’ll create more lifelong memories. They won’t miss out on experiences and opportunities, and they’ll form strong bonds with the people in their life.

Teach teenagers that they don’t always have to have the perfect photo to share. Instead, they should put their phone down and live fully in the moment.

How Adults Can Teach Teenagers to Stay Safe Online

If you want to encourage your teenagers to develop and maintain healthy social media habits, you must model the behavior. Implement healthy behaviors yourself, and avoid using your phone in ways you teach them not to. Your teenagers learn so much from watching you, so set the example you want them to follow.

Final Thoughts on the Research That Shows How to Preserve the Mental Health of Teens in an Online World

These healthy social media habits for teenagers can make all the difference in their lives. It’ll help them focus on the essential things, including schoolwork and real-life relationships. Practicing good habits also improves their mental health and overall well-being.

Remember to model positive habits for your teenagers, giving them a good role model to look up to. You can’t control everything your teen does online, but you can teach them to be safe and respect themselves and others.

Beat Chronic Digestive Issues With This 4-Step Breathing Method

April 13, 2022 by Kristen Lawrence

Believe it or not, many of us have forgotten how to breathe in the modern world, and this can cause chronic digestive issues. Breathing and digestion are more interconnected than you might think. When you’re stressed out, you tend to take short, shallow breaths, raising your cortisol levels.

In turn, this triggers an inflammatory response in your gut, causing symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, indigestion, abdominal pain, and nausea. In some severe cases, decreased blood flow and oxygen generated by high cortisol can lead to IBS, ulcers, or acid reflux.

Connecting Chronic Digestive Issues to the Brain

Since the brain and digestive system communicate almost constantly, it’s easy to see why stress would impact gut health. Many scientists refer to the gut as our “second brain” since it contains more neurons than the spinal cord and peripheral nervous system.

Containing a whopping 100 million neurons, our second brain controls digestive behavior and carries information to our “other brain” via the vagus nerve. The gut uses more than 30 neurotransmitters and houses 95% of the body’s serotonin. As such, our emotions impact both our digestive system and mental health in profound ways.

As mounting evidence shows, eating a balanced diet and exercising will improve mental and physical health. However, sometimes that isn’t enough on its own to eliminate stress and anxiety. We need an arsenal of resources available to heal our minds, bodies, and souls in our modern world. Below, we’ll show you how a simple breathing technique can improve your digestive health and calm your brain.

Beat Chronic Digestive Issues With This 4-Step Breathing Method

Before learning the breathing technique, you must reconnect with your mind and body. The first three steps will show you how to calm any mental restlessness and tune into your intuition. By doing this, better breathing will come naturally.

1 – Listen to your feelings.

Our modern world isn’t very conducive to emotional or mental healing, quite honestly. Profits and productivity often come before overall wellness, and we’re paying a steep price. We’re suffering from numerous diseases of modernity, in large part because of unrealistic expectations and sedentary living. These stresses take a toll on our mental and physical health, so much so that we forget our intuition entirely.

The modern world disconnects us from our spirits, but that doesn’t mean we can’t become in tune with them again. For a few minutes a day, check-in with yourself and see how you’re feeling. No matter what emotions arise, don’t fight them. Breathe through them and remind yourself that you’re worthy and safe.

Breathing through the feelings rather than running from them enhances our resilience and inner fire. Just remember that you’re a human being, and emotions don’t make you weak. The modern world may have you believe otherwise, but your inner self knows best. Getting back in touch with your emotional side can help you heal any chronic digestive issues.

2 – Tune into your body.

After checking in with your mental health, now it’s time to heal your relationship with the body. We’re far too sedentary in modern life, which explains much of the health crises we’re facing. Our bodies were designed for near-constant activity so that we wouldn’t pay much attention to our thoughts. In this world, however, it’s reversed; our bodies are stationary while our minds are restless, which can cause chronic digestive issues and other disorders.

Even if you have a desk job, you can still keep physically active. Before or after work, engage in some activity you enjoy. Go for a run or walk, dance, stretch, or do yoga. If you make the exercise a part of your routine and don’t view it as a chore, your body will heal naturally. The key to choosing an activity that doesn’t feel like a bootcamp. Please don’t torture yourself with it; be one with it.

3 – Accept any feelings that arise.

Many emotions will probably crop up after you’ve tuned into your mental and physical health. Some people even cry or feel an intense release after working out, likely due to endorphins. Whatever arises, sit with it and accept it. Remember that what you resist persists, so never fight your natural emotions. Our feelings aren’t permanent, anyway, so if we can learn to observe them, they will dissipate on their own.

4 – Now, breathe.

You may ask, “Well, how should I breathe?” This is a good question because many people breathe incorrectly, which only exacerbates anxiety and stress. For starters, you should only breathe through your nose, not your mouth. When you breathe through your mouth, the breath gets trapped in your upper chest and can induce anxiety. Breathing through your nose, however, allows the breath to travel to your diaphragm and activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Relaxing the body will help alleviate any chronic digestive issues and tension.

Breathing through the nose also lowers inflammation, improves oxygen levels, and relaxes the body for sleep.

You can also try a yogic breathing exercise called alternate nostril breathing. This helps balance the mind, regulate the breath and relax the nervous system. To do this, cover your right nostril with your thumb, close your eyes, and inhale through your left nostril. Exhale through the left nostril, release your thumb and cover your left nostril with your ring finger. Repeat on the right nostril, performing five to nine rounds of alternate breathing.

It’s best to perform this breathing exercise in the morning, so you’re refreshed and balanced for the day ahead. However, you can always tune into your breath throughout the day and make adjustments as necessary. No matter what you’re doing, breathe slowly and deeply. Remember, nature doesn’t rush but seems to accomplish everything nonetheless.

Final Thoughts on Healing Chronic Digestive Issues Through Breathing Techniques

Who would’ve thought that just remembering to breathe could heal chronic digestive issues? It’s incredible how turning inward and honoring our feelings can lead to profound healing on many levels. Breathing slowly through the nose can realign the mind and body, allowing us to feel recharged and relaxed.

The modern way of life may not honor the human spirit, but that doesn’t mean we can’t take our power back. This simple healing technique can help you overcome chronic digestive issues, stress, or anything else causing you discomfort. May all beings be free from suffering.

14 Relationship Myths You Need to Let Go

April 13, 2022 by Sarah Barkley

There are myths surrounding every topic in existence, including relationship myths. These myths are misguided, but many accept them as truth and pass the false wisdom to others. You can understand how relationships work when you let go of the relationship myths.

While you might think relationship myths are innocent enough, they can cause damage to healthy relationships. The idealizing misconceptions don’t match real life, forcing people to think of impossible ideals.

Fourteen Relationship Myths to Let Go of Immediately

These relationship myths are easily disproven, allowing you to recognize the truth. This knowledge can help you identify and correct misconceptions to improve your relationships.

1. Relationships Shouldn’t Have Conflict (one of the most common relationship myths!)

This myth can cause many issues in your relationships. Every relationship has conflict, even when people communicate well. People are constantly changing and growing, and sometimes challenging each other’s thoughts is necessary.

Instead of thinking of conflict as a sign of a failed relationship, view it as a natural aspect. When a dispute arises, make sure you practice good resolution skills to get through it. Focus on listening to your partner, respecting their opinion, and adjusting to changes.

Conflict and disagreement are healthy in a relationship because you shouldn’t always agree on everything. Plus, you should both feel comfortable enough to discuss things with one another and speak up. You’re good to go as long as there is a healthy balance between conflict and happiness.

2. Milestones Should Occur on a Specific Timeline

Every relationship is different, and there’s no set timeline for when things should happen. People can be together for decades without getting married, whereas others get married soon after dating.

There is no standard timeline that couples must follow. Do things at the pace you and your partner are comfortable with, and ignore outside pressure. When you’re falling in love, you don’t have to get engaged, move in together, or have kids at a certain age, despite what other people might tell you.

3. Both Partners Must Have the Same Priorities

Many people believe that couples must want the same things at every moment. They think that partners should prioritize the same aspects of life equally. However, waiting for someone with your priorities could be impossible.

While having a similar idea for the future is essential, you don’t have to do the same things as your partner. You’re an individual and don’t have to change your goals to align with someone else’s.

You and your partner should have differences, so don’t buy into this relationship myth. Continue doing the things you enjoy and chasing your goals, and allow your partner to do the same.

4. Your Partner Should Fulfill All Your Needs

No one can fulfill all of your needs because that is essentially up to you. A partner can’t cure every issue and satisfy your desire; you shouldn’t ask them to. Your partner doesn’t even have to meet every one of your expectations.

No one is perfect, and expecting your partner to be perfect puts a lot of pressure on your relationship. You must meet most of your needs alone and turn to friends and family for help with other areas. Your partner will be there to help you along the way but don’t expect them to fulfill all of your needs.

Expecting your partner to fulfill your needs can hinder the growth of your relationship. Instead, look for ways to bring happiness without relying on anyone else to do it for you. When you take control, you’ll no longer feel like it’s your partner’s fault when you’re unhappy.

5. Romantic Partners Should Think the Same and Have the Same Opinions (almost impossible to achieve relationship myth)

Relationships are about compromise from both partners. No two people think the same, and they’ll each have opinions and preferences. Rather than feeling the same and wanting all the same things, partners must learn to respect and embrace differences.

Recognizing your similarities and differences can help you take the best path for your relationship. Sometimes, you’ll have to disagree respectfully, but that doesn’t mean your relationship isn’t great.

6. Your Partner Should Make You Feel Whole

Don’t look for a romantic partner who will make you feel complete. Relationships aren’t meant to help you feel whole; you should feel that way alone. You are enough as you are, and you are already complete.

Your partner will make you feel better when things get hard, but that doesn’t mean they make you whole. Work on yourself rather than searching for another person to bring peace to your soul.

7. You Should Always Feel a Spark in Your Relationship

At the beginning of a relationship, you feel a spark whenever you think of your partner. As time passes, the spark usually fades until you no longer recognize it. The initial spark turns into love and affection as you develop deeper feelings for someone.

You can do things to reignite the spark, but you’ll always have to work at it. Love changes and develops as the relationship progresses and you grow. The spark won’t always be alive, a regular part of a healthy relationship.

8. Perfect Relationships Don’t Involve Competition

Competition adds excitement to relationships, and a little challenge is always beneficial. People in healthy relationships love to challenge each other. However, the losing partner should still be happy because they also like to see their significant other succeed.

Couples in healthy relationships challenge one another so that they can expand one another’s limitations and awareness. Competition can strengthen the bond and highlight each partner’s qualities. Make sure to keep the rules fair, though, or it isn’t equal competition.

9. You Must Always Put Your Relationship First (this relationship myth impairs your flexibility in life)

While your relationship should be a priority, it doesn’t always have to come before other things. Relationships require flexibility, with both partners understanding that there must be a balance between romance, personal needs, career requirements, family time, and spirituality.

Sometimes you must put something else before spending time with your significant other, and it’s beneficial to do so. When you prioritize growth in all areas of your life, it won’t hurt your relationship if it’s healthy.

10. Your Feelings Won’t Change

Feelings change no matter what the situation is. The change doesn’t mean you won’t love your partner anymore, but things might feel different.

However, there might be times when you don’t feel in love and feel yourself pulling away. Other times, you’ll experience intense emotions reminding you of how in love you are.

These changes are expected in a relationship, and you can get through them. The only thing that matters is continuing to express love to your partner until you feel like you’re in love again.

11. Soulmates Aren’t a Real Thing (you probably already knew this relationship myth!)

Many people believe in soulmates, but there isn’t only one person for you. You have many potential partners, and it’s up to you to decide who you want to have a happy relationship with. Believing in soulmates causes unrealistic expectations and can cause anxiety.

12. There Is No Such Thing as a Perfect Relationship

Many people form the basis for their idea of relationships from childhood. They also gather ideas of a perfect relationship from movies and social media.

These ideas are misleading because no relationship is perfect. Good relationships take work every day, and both partners must make an effort. When you think that relationships should be excellent, it causes constant disappointment and feelings of failure.

13. Taking a Big Step Will Fix Relationship Issues

Couples go through hard times in their relationship, but some experiences get rockier than others. Some people believe that taking a big relationship step will fix issues within the relationship. They think having a baby or getting married will make everything better.

However, planning a wedding and having a baby are both stressful experiences. These steps won’t erase your problems and might even worsen the situation.

Work on overcoming relationship issues before making a life-changing decision about your relationship. Save these exciting steps for when your relationship is going well so that you can tackle it together.

14. When You’re in Love, You Aren’t Attracted to Anyone Else

Being in a committed relationship doesn’t mean you won’t be attracted to anyone else. Attraction is human nature, so don’t feel bad if it happens sometimes. However, taking the attraction to another level and damaging trust within your relationship is never okay.

Final Thoughts on Relationship Myths You Need to Let Go

You’ve probably heard at least a few of these relationship myths. Relationships aren’t perfect, and things get tricky sometimes. Don’t let these myths give you a false idea of what your romance should look like.

As your romance develops, remember these relationship myths and remember that love takes work. It won’t always be easy, but communication and respect can make a difference.

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