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12 Behaviors Of Optimists Most People Ignore

June 20, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Do you tend to be more of a pessimist or an optimist? A pessimistic person is inclined to negativity, and they are always looking for the sky to fall. The optimist has a whole different outlook, and they tend to believe life is good no matter what happens.

It doesn’t matter if their car broke down on the way to work, they got fired, or their spouse left them; they choose to find the positive things in the most uncertain circumstances. The attitude differences between these two temperaments are night and day.

Life is good, but it’s what you make it. If you tend to go around feeling sorry for yourself all the time, then you will have a miserable existence. However, if you choose to embrace the storms that life throws your way and dance in the rain, then your life will be different.

Ten Reasons Why Life is Good for Optimists

Time and circumstances happen to everyone, but it’s what you do during these times that count. For every action, there is a reaction, and controlling your response is a big part of living a peaceful life. Here are twelve reasons why the optimist lives a much better life than the pessimist.

1. They Have Plenty of Friends

When you choose your friends, you try to pick those that make you feel good and that you like to have fun with. No one wants to be around someone who is constantly depressed, crying, or chronically complaining. Friends help each other because life is tough, but it’s worth every moment.

Consequently, the optimist has no trouble making friends as people are drawn to their infectious personalities.

2. Success Comes Naturally to Them

If you look at some of the great optimists throughout history, these are the people that could see the bright future even though they failed time and again. Sir Winston Churchill was considered a great motivator.

When the British people were losing during World War II, he knew that if he could motivate them to have a positive mindset, they could overcome the enemy. Using the strategy of an optimist, he used the hope of Britain’s future to motivate them. He was considered one of the greatest optimists throughout history.

Success seems to come naturally to a positive person because they will never give up on their dreams.

3. They Refuse to Let Life Get Them Down

Life can be crippling at times, and there are many instances where the most positive people want to throw in the towel. However, the optimistic believes life is good, and they won’t let circumstances get them down. They learn to let things roll off their shoulders.

4. They’re Solution Focused

When trouble comes into the optimist’s life, they don’t get caught up in all the drama and naysaying. Instead, they stay focused on how to fix things. By staying positive, they can accomplish much more than if they had a pity party.

5. They’re Not Afraid of Failure

The difference in the optimist is that they’re not afraid to fail a few times. They know that failure teaches you great lessons, and they embrace falling so they can learn and grow. It’s not that they want to fail, but they know that life is full of hard knocks, and they aren’t going to cry about it.

6. They’re Great Communicators

Typically, a positive person tends to be a great communicator. They are masters at getting what’s on their chest off, and by doing this, they don’t let things fester inside. They speak their peace and don’t harbor resentments.

Communication is the key to problem-solving, which they tend to excel in doing.

7. They’re Future Orientated Thinkers

It’s easy to get caught up in all the little things in life that can pull you down. The optimist tends to look at the big picture rather than focusing on the troubles of the day. Does one high electric bill carry enough weight to ruin your life in the grand scheme of things?

Getting bills that are higher than your budget can be a painful blow, but it’s not going to cause you prolonged pain. Looking at the big pictures helps to put things into perspective and to keep you from falling apart at every little matter.

8. They’re Easily Motivated

These people are easily motivated and usually don’t require someone over them telling them what to do. The optimist is often a born leader, and they’re often seen in many management positions. Their clear-headed thought processes and ability to problem solve makes them helpful in motivating others.

9. Their Behaviors Are Infectious

Folks look at the positive person and want to be just like them. It’s the individual that has a bounce in their step and hums a song as they work. Their cheerful nature radiates from them, and others can’t help but feel compelled to smile.

If you would pole the folks that work with the optimists, you would likely hear that they’re pleasant, fun to be around, and always make you feel better.

10. They Learn to Live in The Moment

Living in the moment is a powerful tool that has recently become commonplace. When you live for the here and now, you don’t dwell on the troubles of tomorrow. Human beings are wired to worry, and it’s just part of your nature.

However, when you live in the moment, you can dispel some of those fears. Melanie Greenberg is a writer and clinical psychologist from California. Her recent writing goes into depth about how your brain is automatically wired to worry. The title of her book “The Stress-Proof Brain” has instantly become a best seller.

In her studies, she found that 85 percent of the things you worry about will never happen. That lump that magically appeared under your skin may paralyze you with fear of cancer. However, when it goes away in a few days, you realize it was just a swollen lymph node.

Think back on all the things you’ve worried about today, this week, or even this year? Now, keep tabs on how many of those things come true. While your numbers might not be as high as those in her study, you will find that most of the things you fret about will never occur. It’s just a waste of time, and the optimist uses mindful techniques to keep them from needless worry.

11. They Know How to Let Things Go

Letting things roll off your back is easier said than done. Having an optimistic outlook doesn’t mean that you will never get down; it means that you won’t allow yourself to stay down. The optimist has learned how not to get too bent out of shape about any one thing.

12. They’re Flexible

Flexible people have less stress in their life. They’ve learned to roll with the punches, and they don’t get too upset when things don’t go according to plan. They understand that there will be times when life throws those curve balls that you need to handle, but this person has become the master at adjusting.

Since life is good and most things in it, even when things don’t go their way, they don’t get overly stressed out.

Seven Easy Ways to Be More Optimistic

If you tend to be more of a pessimist, you can alter your mindset to change your entire life. Here are ten classic ways that you can learn to be more positive. It will make you a better person and easier to be around.

It would be best to use positive affirmations each morning to start your day on the right foot.
Don’t complain chronically about all the things that are so wrong in your life. You don’t need the negativity, and those around you don’t want to hear you complain either.
When you have a rough day, journal all your feelings to the outside. This method allows you to dispel all the negativity and keeps you from harboring it inside.
Practice meditation to get rid of any negativity from the day. Meditation is a powerful tool that can help you to focus and unwind. Being optimistic doesn’t mean you will never have bad days or stress. However, it means you know how to handle them effectively, and mediation is the key.
Practice using aromatherapy to help calm you. Aromatherapy has been used for centuries to help calm people. Lavender is one of the best herbs for clearing stress and helping you relax.
Learn to be present at the moment. Stop ruminating about all your past mistakes and future worries. When you learn to embrace and enjoy every moment of your day, your life will change for the positive.
Spend plenty of time in nature. Walk in the sunshine barefoot to help you ground yourself. It’s hard to stay negative and in a bad mood when you have the warm golden rays and the soil’s feeling between your toes.

Final Thoughts on Why Life is Good for Optimists

Life is good, but life is what you make it. You have a choice every day when you crawl out of bed. You can use positive affirmation to make it a good day, or you can allow yourself to get caught up in every issue that comes your way. So learn to let things roll off your back and embrace the blessings that each moment brings.

12 Behaviors Reveal That Someone Gravitates Towards Extroversion

June 19, 2021 by Power of Positivity

The world is full of extroverted people. Extroversion is a personality type that lives for social gatherings and loves to be the life of the party. This person’s outgoing nature, who draws towards extroversion, seems to draw people to them, like flies to honey.

The extrovert is the person you see in a restaurant talking to strangers and smiling from ear to ear. They are happy-go-lucky, and they enjoy new experiences. Unlike the introvert, they don’t need time alone to recharge their batteries as they find fulfillment being with others.

The extrovert would rather go to a barbeque, club, or another social gathering instead of sitting at home reading a book. They live for thrills, and they aren’t afraid to take risks. Do you see yourself as an introverted or extroverted person?

Twelve Habits That Reveal Extroversion

Since the extrovert and introvert are so vastly different, it’s easy to see each personality’s characteristics in family and friends. Do you tend to be more outgoing than reserved? Here are some everyday behavioral habits of the extrovert.

1. Enjoys Social Settings

As a social butterfly, those with extroversion live for the next party or event. They like to have several social gatherings planned each week because staying close to their home-based is boring.

Since a social gathering is the next best place to see and be seen, they have a hard time saying no to any event where they get attention.

2. Doesn’t Like to Be Alone

The extrovert was made to be around people, so they don’t like spending time alone. They see no need to spend a quiet day at home watching television and chilling. Due to their social nature, they need the energy of others to keep them going.

If they find themselves without something to do, which is hardly ever, they will find something to get into. Walking around a crowded mall would be more fun for this person than having a day at home where they do nothing.

3. The More = The Merrier

As a social butterfly, the extrovert needs lots of friends. This allows them always to have someone close. This personality type gravitates to people, so making friends is effortless.

While their social network is extensive, they have many close friends and people they consider as acquaintances. These individuals are always seeking out new interests and activities as they want their social circle to enlarge.

4. Crowds Are No Issue

They have no issue being in larger groups, and they’re often the one who is chosen as the leader when someone needs to spearhead an activity. Since their inner circle is vast, their days are filled with weddings, birthdays, and other social gatherings.

Those with extroversion don’t usually suffer from social anxiety disorder conditions because they get a charge from being in big groups.

5. Loves to Talk

An introvert tends to internalize their problems and work on things from within. However, the extrovert needs to get things off their chest. They’re the first person to head to a counselor’s office because they need to talk about their issues.

They value others’ opinions, so they need the guidance and direction that talking about stuff openly can bring. If they had to keep things bottled up inside, they would explode.

6. Risk Takers

Have you ever seen those immense cliffs where people jump down into a pool of water below? The introvert would be standing at the top, pondering the water’s depth versus the speed at which they would fall. However, the extrovert would push them out of the way to take the plunge.

Extroversion means that you look at life and risks a bit differently. You’re not afraid to take big chances because you know that it can bring rewards. If they stumble and fall while taking risks, then they will pick themselves up and try again. Extroverts aren’t afraid to start businesses on a whim, take a spur-of-the-moment trip, or be daring.

According to the National Institute of Medicine, part of the reason why extroverts can take these risks is that they love being rewarded with a boost of dopamine. When they do something daring and out of the ordinary, they’re essentially gambling.

This activity triggers their reward center in the brain, which makes them want to do it again. They become addicted to this chemical surge as it makes them feel amazing. It’s the same feeling that some get from eating carbohydrates or other substances that trigger this region of the brain.

7. Impulsive

The introvert may need a month or more to make a significant decision, but the extrovert can choose on the fly. They can see a home one time and fall in love, and make an offer. Their impulsive nature causes them to leap before they consider the risks.

While impulsivity may be their downfall, many times, it’s been the thing that has helped them to be successful. What’s life without a few risks anyway?

8. Loves Noise

While the introvert may need a quiet place to study and be alone with their thoughts, the extrovert needs music, or the silence is haunting. They need action always going on around them, though sometimes it’s exhausting.

This personality type has a television or radio going in the background, and they are often multitaskers who do many things at once.

9. Flexible

The flexible nature of the extrovert makes them easy to be around. If the plans make a sudden shift, it’s no big deal. Unlike the introvert that may fall to pieces when things suddenly change, the extrovert can “roll with the punches.”

They may be an organized individual, but they don’t need a firm plan before they go on vacation or start a new project. They believe that being spontaneous adds more flavor to life.

10. Friendly and Confident

Being extroverted means that there’s not a lot of time to ponder life’s troubles. These happy and cheerful people don’t like to dwell on the negative things, so they’re the ones that always see the glass as half-way full.

Sure, they have troubles just like the next person, but they don’t wear their emotions on their sleeve, and they let things roll off their back.

11. Gets Bored Easily

Because their nature is to be on the go, those with extroversion tend to get bored when there’s not enough action. The silence may be more distracting to them than to another person, so they need to find ways to engage with others. They feed off other individuals’ energy, so being alone isn’t an option.

12. Outgoing

Extroversion’s outgoing nature makes this personality type perfect for a salesman, teacher, or any other position that involves talking. They tend to excel in sales because the gift of gab helps them lure in new customers.

The Wide Range of Extroversion

Do you find that you match some of the characteristics of an extrovert but not all of them? Many people fall somewhere in between being an introvert and an extrovert, and that’s completely normal. Another thing to consider is that your personality changes as you age.

You might have been an introvert growing up, but now you see yourself as more of an extrovert in adulthood. It’s perfectly normal to have these fluctuations as life experiences tend to change people. Some folks desire to be less extroverted, so they will work with a therapist to develop introverted characteristics.

However, did you know that your personality was already predetermined before you even made a friend? What most people don’t consider is that genetics is a significant indication of your nature. Was your mom or dad extroverted?

Growing up in a home with extroverts will likely sway you to behave in this manner. According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, your genes can determine how your system will respond to dopamine in the brain. Additionally, your brain’s reaction to this chemical neurotransmitter helps to predict your personality.

Brain chemistry is one factor, but you must also consider your growth evolution. Life has a way of helping your personality evolve as time goes on.

Final Thoughts on Knowing You Display These Traits of Extroversion

Did you find out a few things about extroversion that you didn’t know? Do you feel that you’re more of an extrovert as opposed to being an introvert? Remember, it’s not always a black and white subject, as there can be a gray area.

You may have some classic tendencies of both personality types, and it’s okay as that’s what makes you so unique. However, whenever you see the social butterfly who never knows a stranger, you’ve met an extrovert who is loving life.

Do you see any of these characteristics in your friends or loved ones? Isn’t the brain fascinating in how it works to create personalities?

4 Ways To Release Anxiety Without Fighting Yourself

June 19, 2021 by Lakeisha Ethans

Anxiety is an unfortunately common occurrence among many in the 21st century. Indeed, life is fast-paced and each person has so many responsibilities to pay attention to. It’s tough to stay on top of everything without letting the stress of it all get to you. That strain can take its toll – especially if you already struggle with knowing how to release anxiety.

It’s tempting to want to squash anxiety down by ignoring it or fighting your feelings. But these methods are often counterproductive. Anxiety needs to be relieved and let out, not further repressed and compressed. In fact, doing the latter can worsen anxiety. So how you manage it best? Here are four ways to release anxiety without fighting yourself.

1. Find A Creative Method Of Expression

Creativity is a great way to release anxiety without fighting your emotions and impulses. In fact, creative methods allow you to be completely uninhibited when you express yourself. You can put all your intense, complex, and complicated emotions into this kind of work. So pour your heart into creative ventures! Here are some ways to do so:

· Use Art

Art is an incredible way to express yourself. Creative visual arts have a positive effect on anxiety that art therapy is an effective way to manage it, reducing stress and teaching stress management. You can use art to let out all your intense emotions, whether through painting and drawing, or you can even use other forms of art, like music.

· Write

Writing down how you feel helps you to express those emotions healthily. Journaling is an excellent way to help reduce stress levels and manage anxiety. You can write down all that you think and feel and then throw it away to symbolize tossing out your worries – or you can keep what you write and reflect on it later! Either way, it’s a healthy and creative method of expression.

· Color

A lot of people think of coloring as a more childish activity, but it is anything but! It’s a great way to utilize the benefits of art even if you aren’t particularly artistically inclined, and studies have found that it’s a fantastic method for stress relief. There’s a reason adult coloring books have gotten so popular. After all – they work!

2. Focus On Organization

Being organized seems like an odd way to release anxiety. However, it can be the most effective method if your anxiety has to do with schedules, work, and responsibilities. Watching your life fall into place through organization dissipates anxiety quickly. Additionally, you can watch yourself become less stressed out the better you get at organizing. Here are some tips for focusing on organization to release anxiety:

· Make Time For What You Love

Even if you have a scheduled list of things to do, it’s probably that you haven’t scheduled your own leisure time, too. Activities that you love can boost your positive thinking and offer anxiety-relieving effects, letting you relax and de-stress. Make sure your organized to-do list includes your hobbies, or even just some “me time” to rest!

· Say “No” To Too Many Commitments

Commitments can pop up left and right, and if you have trouble saying “no” to people, they can quickly pile up to overwhelming levels. It would help if you learned to say “no” to commitments that will fill your plate up till it overflows. The more commitments you have, the more exhausted and anxious you’ll get. Determine where your limits are and stick by them to be more selective about what responsibilities you accept.

· Declutter Effectively

You can lose a lot of time in your day to having many things piled up around you, as it takes longer for you to locate things. And, of course, physical clutter often leads to mental clutter, which can manifest in anxiety. Need tips on decluttering? Pick one place to start – a specific drawer, a box of things, or even the closet.

Then, one by one, categorize the items within into these four categories:

1) things you use regularly
2) things to discard
3) things to sell
4) things to give away.

· Check Your To-Do Lists

To-do lists can give you a proper idea of how much you’re trying to do at once. Seeing it all out on a piece of paper can show you if your goals are realistic. You can’t squeeze an entire day of tasks into an afternoon, for example. Please keep track of what you have to do and organize it in a way that is reasonable for your abilities.

· Fight Procrastination

Procrastination pretty much always leads to stress and anxiety, but stopping the habit isn’t as simple as it sounds. It’s important to understand where procrastination stems from – feelings of being overwhelmed, tiredness, or a poorly organized system of tasks, for example. Examining the source of your procrastination will help you fight it, and once you tackle procrastination, your anxiety will diminish, according to research.

3. Do Some Deep Breathing Exercises

It’s relatively common knowledge that breathing exercises are used for anxiety relief. Still, the idea of simply “breathing” to achieve a more positive state of mind can seem far-fetched and even a little insulting when you’re dealing with a lot of anxiety.

But trust us when we say that using breathing exercises well can help to reduce fight-vs-flight responses, calming your sympathetic nervous system, and reducing physical symptoms of anxiety like high blood pressure, pulse acceleration, and quickened breathing. When you use these exercises, you’re able to trigger the relaxation response in your body through the parasympathetic nervous system.

There are many kinds of breathing exercises with their instructions for performing them, such as paced respiration, diaphragmatic breathing, belly breathing, and more. But ultimately, all these exercises bring awareness to your breath and let your body regulate respiration until you feel more at peace. Here are some steps for a simple breathing exercise with belly breathing!

How To Do Deep Breathing

Step 1: Start by sitting down in a quiet and comfortable place. Close your eyes and focus on your breathing, inhaling and exhaling in a non-controlled, natural manner. You should try to breathe through your nostrils if you can!
Step 2: Focus on how your breath feels and the sensation that comes with its entrance and existing through your nostrils. Put a hand on your chest and another hand on your stomach.
Step 3: Take a deep breath for four counts, still paying attention to the sensation. Hold the breath in for three counts. Then exhale throughout four more counts. Take note of how the hand on your stomach goes inwards as you breathe in and goes outwards as you breathe out.
Step 4: Concentrate entirely on your breathing and allow your mind to stop focusing on anything else at all. Your brain will likely be quite busy at first, and sometimes the act of performing the exercise can bring your attention to just how busy it is! Don’t worry about them.
Step 5: Instead of following your busy thoughts, watch them go by. Do not follow any of them – stay focused on your breathing and grounded in the present.
Step 6: Keep doing steps 3 to 5 for as long as it takes for your mind to begin to calm down and settle. Once your brain has settled, you can come out feeling less anxious.
Step 7: Repeat the whole exercise when you need a little de-stressing, and try to implement this practice into your everyday life on a regular and habitual basis.

4. Connect With Others

Anxiety can make you want to withdraw, but that’s the last thing that you should do if you’re trying to manage that emotion! It would be best if you were around others to release anxiety by counteracting it with positive social input. Connecting to others can bring you a surprising amount of peace, and it’s a method that you shouldn’t discount.

Here are some tips for connecting with others to release anxiety:

· Spend Time With Others

Social support can be a significant aid in managing anxiety. The people who care about you – and even just a group of good people – can help give you a calming sense of belonging. Plus, it releases oxytocin, which is a feel-good love hormone. Positive thinking from this kind of social interaction can reduce levels of anxiety and depression, even among introverts.

· Cuddle or Hug Someone

Physical interactions with others are even better than simply spending time around them! The act of hugging, cuddling, or kissing someone brings down blood pressure, reduces stress and stress hormones, and sends out even more of that love hormone, oxytocin. Studies show that this can happen to such an extreme extent that you’ll get sick less often if you interact with people in this physical manner – so the effects go beyond anxiety-busting.

· Ask For Help

Many people have a sense of pride that makes it difficult for them to request help from others. But the people who care about you want to support you and will be happy to help you when you’re in need. Reaching out to those around you can help you to release anxiety through the relieving of some burden on your shoulders. If you don’t have people in your life that you can request help from, try connecting with support groups and similar organizations.

· Engage In Intimacy

Bedroom activities are a surprisingly effective way to release anxiety in a positive way. Satisfying intimacy with someone you trust can help bring down stress levels, so enjoy yourself with those you love!

· Relax With A Pet

If you’re not feeling up to direct interaction with people, try connecting with a pet instead. Spending time with a pet and playing with them releases oxytocin, too, and pets have an excellent way of providing purpose, activity, and companionship in anxiety-relieving ways, say studies.

Final Thoughts On Some Ways To Release Anxiety Without Fighting Yourself

It’s okay to feel anxious now and then, but ultimately you need to have healthy coping mechanisms for anxiety to avoid its worst effects. Learning to release tension in positive ways without fighting yourself is a great way to do that. If you’re struggling a lot with anxiety, reach out to a mental health professional for advice.

Student Almost Misses Graduation Until a Teacher Helps Him Out

June 19, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

High school graduation marks a huge turning point in a young person’s life. From that moment forward, you get to carve your own path. You have endless possibilities in front of you, and there’s no limit to what you can accomplish. It’s a transition from childhood to adulthood, and you’ll remember that moment forever. However, if you ever find yourself needing to replace lost or damaged records, you might consider options like buy a set of fake transcripts to fill the gap temporarily while sorting out official replacements.

Many people consider graduation as one of the most important days of their life. Daverius Peters, a senior at Hahnville High School in Boutte, Louisiana, had been looking forward to this special day for a while. However, when he arrived at the graduation ceremony on May 19, a school representative turned him away.

The 18-year-old had on the mandatory cap and gown. He’d also followed the other guidelines, which stated that male students must wear a white dress shirt and tie, along with dark dress pants. However, the woman at the front doors of the convention center told him his shoes violated the dress code. She said unless he changed his shoes, he couldn’t attend the graduation ceremony.

The school’s graduation dress code stated that males had to wear dark dress shoes. It also emphasized not to wear athletic shoes, as they wouldn’t be allowed. That day, Peters wore black leather sneakers with white soles. They weren’t classic dress shoes, but Peters thought he could wear them since they were black.

So, when the school representative denied him entry, he went into shock. Peters also felt humiliated, imagining what his parents would think if he couldn’t attend his own graduation. He just wanted to walk across the stage and get the diploma he’d worked so hard for.

With only minutes until the ceremony was set to begin, he felt hopeless. He had no time to stop at a store to buy new shoes. As he paced anxiously outside the convention center, he spotted a glimmer of hope. He’d noticed a familiar face, that of paraeducator John Butler.

Peters almost missed his graduation until the kind staff member came to his rescue

Butler helps mentor students at the high school, and many students look up to him. Butler always did what he could to help the students. He had a daughter graduating with Peters, so he was attending the commencement ceremony as a parent that day. So, Peters ran over to him and explained his shoe predicament.

After he told the story, Butler couldn’t believe it. He’d been working at the school for two years and was well aware of the dress code. However, he didn’t see anything eccentric about Peters’ shoes.

Butler decided to talk with the woman who’d denied the young man entry. Perhaps if she saw him with Peters, she’d change her mind. However, she stuck to her decision, not allowing Peters in due to his shoes. With only minutes to spare, he didn’t have time to argue with her.

So, without a second thought, Butler took off his own shoes and gave them to Peters. He saw no other options at that point, and for him, “it was a no-brainer.” He wasn’t going to let the soon-to-be high school graduate miss this pivotal moment in his life.

It seemed like everything would run smoothly now, except for one small hiccup. Peters wore a size 9, and Butler wore a size 11. Peters didn’t let the size difference phase him, though. He slid Butler’s tan loafers onto his feet and excitedly ran through the doors right before they closed.

Butler then took his seat with only socks on his feet, ignoring the confused stares from others. He just felt happy that Peters would get to receive his diploma. For him, giving up his shoes temporarily was a small price to pay. Have you lost your college certificates? You can buy diplomas online as a replacement.

Peters slid across the stage, proudly receiving his high school diploma

Peters heard his name, but he couldn’t walk in the oversized shoes. So, he improvised and slid across the stage to receive his diploma. Peters’ family along with the rest of the audience noticed his strange choice of footwear.

Jima Smith, Peters’ mother, asked the rest of the family what shoes her son had on. They had no idea where the shoes came from, and why he wasn’t wearing the black sneakers. Then, they looked over and noticed Butler had no shoes on. However, they didn’t put two and two together at that moment.

Smith’s other son pointed out Butler’s shoeless feet, not realizing that he’d given his shoes to his younger brother. Right after the ceremony, Daverius found the kind mentor who’d loaned him the shoes so he could graduate. He returned the loafers and expressed his gratitude for the selfless gesture.

Mr. Butler’s kindness didn’t surprise him, however. He said that he’s just “that type of person.” When a student’s having a bad day, Butler calls them out of class to personally talk with them. He doesn’t want anyone to feel like they have to go through things alone.

So, because of Butler, everything worked out in Peters’ favor in the end. However, Butler says the incident highlighted the school’s need to alter the dress code. He believes something that minor shouldn’t prohibit a student from attending their own graduation. He plans to meet with the school board to discuss adjusting guidelines for future ceremonies.

Stevie Crovetto, the director of public information for Hahnville High School, spoke about the incident. She says the school administrators will review current policies and make improvements where needed. She added that Mr. Butler’s kindness didn’t surprise anyone at the school, as he’s always willing to help.

Peter’s parents were upset, but they felt grateful for Mr. Butler

After Peters’ parents learned what happened, they felt outraged. Due to the pandemic, Peters had to learn virtually for much of the year. He’d had a tough senior year and had worked so hard for his diploma. His parents couldn’t believe something as minor as his shoes could’ve kept him from graduating.

Peters’ mom said her son truly believed his footwear followed the dress code. She added that it wasn’t just about him, though. Maybe other parents couldn’t afford to buy new dress shoes; should their children be denied entry, too?

Smith plans to meet with the school board to discuss the matter. She hopes that, in the future, the incident won’t happen to other students.

In an interview with The Washington Post, she said: “If it wasn’t for Mr. Butler’s kind and thoughtful act, my child would have been sitting outside, and I wouldn’t have known. I pray he will continue to work in the public school system because we need more teachers like him. Our young Black men need good role models and mentors like Mr. Butler.”

Mr. Butler humbly said he just did what he felt was right, and didn’t think much of it. However, Peters’ family was blown away by the last-minute shoe exchange.

“He gave the shoes off his own feet to my child,” Smith said. “That says a lot about what type of man he is.”

10 Behaviors That Reveal a Lack of Respect From Your Partner

June 19, 2021 by Chris Butler

Do you feel respected by your spouse or partner, or is the lack of respect taking a toll on your relationship? The need to be admired by your partner is universal and transcends gender. When you’re disrespected, it often leaves you wondering what you did wrong and how to fix the situation.

What do you do when your wife or husband has no respect for you? Being disrespected affects both men and women in different ways. The definition of respect by Merriam Webster means to hold someone in high regard and show admiration. Considering someone you’re in love with is an essential part of the foundation of your partnership.

Both males and females have a need and desire to please their mate, and when there’s a lack of respect, it can be psychologically damaging. Rejection is a bitter pill to swallow, and it can dramatically affect your self-esteem as well as the quality of your relationship.

The Pangs of Rejection from Disrespect

Relationships have foundational building blocks that keep the union sound. Things like trust, honesty, commitment, communication, and respect are essential. When one of these grounding parts of your union is gone, it’s like a house with a sagging foundation. No doubt, a weak foundation produces cracks, soft spots and is dangerous.

So, when your relationship has dysfunctional parts, it allows room for other issues to creep in. The lack of respect will soon let doubt slither in and start trouble.

Here’s an example

For instance, a husband who no longer is home by dinner time, and doesn’t take time to call to warn his wife, leaves the door open for suspicion.

It’s not only disrespectful not to let someone know you’re going to be late, especially when they’re cooking, but they will worry about your safety. It’s just a little thing that you can do that shows you hold this person in high esteem. When you don’t take time to let them know your whereabouts, then you cause ill feelings.

First, she’s going to be hurt because she made a meal you didn’t eat. Second, she is going to wonder why you’re working so late all the time. Third, she will wonder if there’s someone else that has caught your eye. Due to these actions, the wife may turn inward instead of talking out issues.

Even if the husband was working and there wasn’t anything wrong, the lack of respect caused a rift. The wife will become suspicious and keep a mental tab of how many times such an occurrence happened. All of this could have been avoided with a simple phone call out of respect for your partner.

Is It Disrespect or Low Self-Esteem?

Each person has baggage they carry from previous relationships. Not only does this baggage weigh you down, but if you don’t unload these things, it can affect your current relationship as well as those in the future. If you had a previous partner who lied to you all the time, then you might find yourself second-guessing your current spouse.

The sad part is that you might have no grounds to distrust them, but you automatically do it because you’ve been burnt in the past. It can work much the same way with your self-esteem. Some folks don’t have high regard for themselves, and if you wear your emotions on your sleeve, it can cause problems.

Assume you got a new haircut. Your spouse didn’t say anything about this style, so you automatically took that to mean they didn’t like it. Some folks are just more perceptive than others, and it didn’t mean they didn’t like it. They didn’t mention the new style.

You can easily project your feelings of poor self-esteem onto someone else when there are no grounds. A lack of respect is different than not being observant, and it’s important you can identify what true disrespect is in a relationship.

Ten Behaviors the Show A Lack of Respect

Setting feelings aside, you need to know what’s disrespectful and when it’s your poor self-esteem or emotional baggage affecting the situation. Here are ten behaviors that show a lack of respect from your partner.

1. Verbal Abuse

There is never a reason to call names or put each other down. You should speak to each other with love and kindness. It’s disrespectful, even in the heat of an argument, to call names. Never speak downwards to someone you love, as it shows a real lack of maturity too.

2. Lying

Honesty is one of those essential foundational blocks in your relationship. When you or your partner lie to one another, you’re leaving the door open for some serious issues. If you can’t trust your partner, then it’s better to sever ties.

3. Cheating

Infidelity is one of the most damaging forms of disrespect. When you’re in love and commit yourself to each other, part of that commitment is your mind, body, and soul. When you use your body to find pleasures outside of the relationship, it’s very hurtful and damaging to the other person.

The first step to mending a relationship after such a devastating blow is to rebuild trust. It’s difficult to trust someone who has hurt you so badly. However, many couples go on even after infidelity, but their union will never be the same.

4. Physical Abuse

It would help if you never put your hands on each other in anger. Most people think this is more about men, but women can be abusers too. Domestic Shelters has done extensive research into why women abuse and their motives are often different than a man’s.

However, the real issue is that most men won’t speak up about the abuse they encounter, as they fear it will take away from their masculinity. Things are changing, and society is recognizing that men can receive just like women.

5. Flirting With Others in Front of You

It’s okay to notice an attractive person even in a committed relationship. However, flirting takes it to a whole new level. If your lover is flirting with others when you’re around, it’s the ultimate disrespect. It’s like they’re saying you’re not good enough and this person is better.

6. Put You Down

There are always going to be little annoying things about one another that you don’t like. However, your partner should never put you down in front of others. If they’re concerned about your weight, it’s a conversation to have behind closed doors.

A weight issue should be about health more than looks, and they should never incorporate name-calling. When someone puts you down and makes you feel “less than” in front of others, run.

7. They Make Plans That Don’t Include You

For the most part, being in a relationship means that you make plans together. While there may be the occasional guys or girls’ night out, typically, your life should be spent doing things as a couple. If one of you is making plans continuously that don’t involve the other person, it’s a sign you don’t want to be with them.

It’s very disrespectful and hurtful to be with someone and only see each other at the end of the day. Life is about spending time together, not about sharing a space but living separately.

8. Always On Their Cell Phone

Cell phones, tablets, and laptops have brought a whole new level of disrespect to society. It’s so annoying to try to have a conversation or go to dinner with someone who can’t put down their electronic devices. It isn’t nice to have half of someone’s attention because they’re so involved in social media, texting, or checking emails.

There should always be a set time to put down the electronics and communicate, as it can get old, real fast.

9. Interrupts You While Speaking

There’s nothing more annoying than someone who constantly interrupts you when you’re trying to speak. They’re implying that what you have to say is not as crucial as their thoughts. Don’t let people cut you off, as it’s the ultimate disrespect.

10. Refuses To Apologize

Selfish people are individuals who believe they’re always right. According to the National Centers for Biotechnology Information, these folks often have a grandiose sense of self-importance, as well as show arrogant, haughty behaviors and attitudes. Even if they know they’re wrong, they will never admit that to you.

However, they probably think they’re right all the time anyway, so they will argue and push their point until you see things their way.

Final Thoughts on A Lack of Respect

Being with the right person who loves, cherishes, and respects you will bring a whole new meaning to your life. While even the best relationship will have some storms to weather, you do it together and not by tearing each other apart.

When someone shows a lack of respect to you, it can have a long-lasting effect. Not only will the relationship be unhealthy, but it can destroy your self-esteem a little bit with each blow. While relationships are all about compromise, there are some things that you should never compromise on, such as honesty, trust, communication, and respect for one another.

Doctors Explain Causes + Symptoms of Gallstones (and How to Fix Them)

June 19, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Gallstones are hard deposits of bile that sometimes form in your gallbladder. Usually, you don’t even know you have them. But if these stones block the flow of the bile, it can be harrowing. Gallstones affect over 30,000 Americans every year. You may wonder if you have gallstones. Here is what doctors say: the causes and symptoms of gallstones and how you can get rid of them.

What does your gallbladder do?

Your gallbladder is a small organ in the upper right side of your stomach. It stores the fluid produced by your liver called bile. Bile helps break down fatty foods. As you eat, your gallbladder contracts causing the bile to empty from your gallbladder into your small intestine. When the chemicals that produce bile get off balance, gallstones form. The two types of gallstones are cholesterol or pigment gallstones.

Cholesterol gallstones form if there is too much cholesterol in the bile inside your gallbladder. These account for 80% of gallstones and are often the culprits of obstructions or inflammation in your gallbladder.

Pigment stones are made of calcium and assorted other minerals. These stones don’t normally cause problems in your gallbladder. But brown pigment stones, which are made up of calcium, protein, and cholesterol, can cause obstructions and pain.

What is a gallbladder attack?

You often have no symptoms from your gallstones, but if a stone blocks the bile flow, it can cause irritation and pain. Gallbladder attacks cause pain in the upper right side of your stomach. They often happen late at night after eating a large, heavy meal. If you’ve had one attack, you’re probably going to have more. Once the gallstones move away from the bile ducts, the pain may subside.

If the gallstones continue to block the bile ducts, it can cause complications, including

Damage to your gallbladder, liver, or bile ducts
Infection in your gallbladder or liver
Inflammation in your gallbladder
Pancreatitis, or inflammation of your pancreas

If you think you have a gallstone attack, seek medical help right away. Gallstones can cause death if they are left untreated.

Who’s at risk for gallstones?

You may be prone to this problem due to specific risk factors.

Age factor:

Women between the ages of 20 to 60 are at a high risk of getting gallstones. Pregnant women are more likely to have symptoms—as well as men who are over 60 years of age.

Genetic factor:

Your genes can play a role in the presence of this condition. If you have a close relative such as a parent or sibling with gallstones, you have an increased risk of getting them.

Medical conditions factor:

Certain medical conditions or lifestyles cause you to be at risk for gallstones, including the following:

Overweight
Diabetic
IV feeding
Sickle cell anemia
Cirrhosis of the liver
Crohn’s disease
Hyperthyroidism
Rapid weight loss
Spinal cord injury
Gastric bypass
Sedentary lifestyle

Ethnic factors:

Certain ethnic backgrounds are more prone to gallstones.

Native Americans (the Pima people have the highest gallstone rate in the United States)
Northern European
Mexican-descent Americans

Taking certain drugs:

If you take certain drugs, you are more susceptible to gallstones. These pharmaceuticals include the following:

Oral contraceptives
Cholesterol-lowering drugs
Hormone replacement drugs
Ceftriaxone
Octreotide
Somatostatin
Thiazide diuretics

Diet factors:

Certain dietary changes put you at such as:

Losing weight too fast
Fasting
Eating too many trans fats.
Eating high glycemic index foods.

Symptoms of gallstones

Oftentimes, gallstones cause no problem, and they’re only found if you have a CT scan for something else. But if you have gallstones that block a bile duct, there will be noticeable symptoms, including:

Pain in your upper right side of your abdomen, below your rib cage
The pain gets worse within an hour.
Sharp, knife-like pain that radiates to your back or right shoulder
Nausea
Vomiting
The pain may subside for a while, then return later.

If a gallstone gets stuck in the bile duct, it can cause serious problems. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or surgery depending upon the severity of the gallstone attack.

Why do women have a greater risk of gallstones?

Gallstones affect women more than men. This is due to an estrogen hormone that increases the cholesterol in the bile and progesterone hormones, which slows down your gallbladder’s ability to empty properly. Before the age of 40 years of age, women are diagnosed three times more often than men. Estrogen therapy also increases your risk of gallstones.

How can someone prevent gallstones?

There are some simple things you can do to reduce your chances of getting gallstones.

Eat a healthy Mediterranean diet.

Eating a Mediterranean diet reduces your chances of getting gallstones. Researchers say that parts of the world where people have a high consumption of olive oil are less likely to have gallstones. A Meditteranean diet includes eating:

Lots of vegetables and fruits
Nuts and seeds
Beans
Healthy grains
Olive oil
Fish
Small amounts of dairy and meat
Red wine

Exercise

Exercise is another key component to avoid gallstones. A sedentary lifestyle puts you at higher risk.

Avoid crash dieting

Crash diets where you reduce your calorie intake too much or skip meals can hurt your heart and gallbladder. When you lose a lot of weight quickly, it makes your gallbladder empty slowly. This allows a build-up of bile and cholesterol. Instead, choose to lose weight at a slower pace, usually 1or 2 pounds a week, by eating a healthy diet and increasing your exercise.

Eat a high-fiber diet.

Eating high fiber is essential to reduce your bad cholesterol. Not only does this protect your heart, but it also protects you against gallstones. Eating high fiber and low fat keeps the bile cholesterol in your gallbladder a liquid instead of turning into hard stones. Fiber flushes bile out of your gallbladder and gets your digestive system going. Choose high-fiber foods to eat, such as

Whole grain pasta
Whole-grain bread
Brown rice
Wild rice
Oatmeal
Popcorn
Barley
Bulghur

Maintain a healthy weight

If you’re overweight or obese, you’re at risk of getting gallstones. Extra pounds make your gallbladder bigger, so it doesn’t work as well. This raises your cholesterol levels. This is especially true if you carry your weight around your waist rather than your hips or things.

Lecithin

Another natural compound that can help keep cholesterol from getting hardened and forming gallstones. Lecithin is naturally found in certain foods, including:

Soybeans
Oatmeal
Eggs
Milk
Peanuts
Cabbage
Chocolate

You can take lecithin supplements, but be careful. Taking too much lecithin can lead to liver problems. So check with your nutritionist before taking it.

Do gallbladder cleanses work?

Gallbladder cleanses a popular remedy for getting rid of gallstones. There’s no evidence that a gallbladder cleanse can get rid of gallstones. These cleanses often involve a drink that’s a combination of olive oil, herbs, and fruit juice. Supposedly the cleanses break up the gallstones and help your gallbladder release them. Olive oil is a laxative, but doctors haven’t seen that cleanses dissolve gallstones. People claim to see big gallstones in their stools, but it’s actually globs of the oil and juice that combine and are removed in bowel movements.

Cleansing routines can be dangerous. You may experience vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, or abdominal pain while cleansing. If you think you have this condition, it’s best to talk with your doctor to decide your next step. If you have a gallbladder infection due to the stones, you need the care of a doctor, which may be followed by surgery. Surgery is usually a laparoscopic outpatient procedure. They also use sound waves to break up gallstones.

For further guidance, consult with your doctor before you proceed with this option.

You can live without a gallbladder.

If you need to get your gallbladder removed due to frequent gallbladder attacks, a gallbladder infection, or the risk of damaging your liver, don’t worry. You can live a healthy life without a gallbladder. You don’t need your gallbladder for digestion. Without a gallbladder, your liver will make enough bile to digest your food, and instead of storing the bile in your gallbladder, it drips into your small intestines. You won’t need to eat a special diet after surgical removal. But of course, you should continue to eat a healthy diet and get exercise for overall good health. Some people say they experience bloating and diarrhea after surgery. But this usually improves over time.

The most gallstones

If you’re the competitive type, you may be interested to know that an Indian doctor removed what experts believe to be the most gallstones ever to be removed from one person. Dr. Makhan Saha removed a whopping 11,950 gallstones from a 51 women patient in 2015.

The largest gallstone in the world

The largest gallstone in the world was removed from a 72-year-old woman in Trinidad and Tobago, a small twin-island area off the coast of Venezuela. The gallstone measured 5 inches by 2.7 inches and was removed laparoscopically in 2020.

Final thoughts on recognizing the presence of gallstones and knowing how to prevent them

The best way to avoid gallstones is prevention. Eating a healthy Meditteranean diet, exercise, and maintain a healthy weight reduces your chances of getting them.

7 Reasons Why Traumatic Childhood Transforms Into Adult Anger

June 19, 2021 by Lakeisha Ethans

Childhood trauma comes with all sorts of side effects, and many of them don’t go away, even when you grow up. You may have picked up negative strategies and coping mechanisms from your traumatic childhood and continue to use those methods to this day.

One of these mechanisms is anger, specifically explosive and powerful anger as a typical response to many difficulties in your adult life. But why does this happen? Here are seven reasons why a traumatic childhood transforms into adult anger.

1. You Believe That Rage “Works” – Even If It Doesn’t

When you have a traumatic childhood, your idea of how you should interact with others becomes warped. Kids learn many vital skills from the people around them, and if those who raised you also harmed you, you will have likely learned their mannerisms and behaviors.

The dangerous part about this is that you saw abusive, aggressive, and angry adults taking out their emotions on you and even those in a similar position to you as a child. You learned from them that these angry behaviors weren’t just average, but that they worked.

Using Angry Outbursts To Get Your Own Way

Perhaps you used your indignation to achieve the following outcomes:

Get the point across
Establish boundaries
Resolve conflict and solve problems
Exert control
Fuel motivation

And the truth, of course, is that anger does often work for these purposes. The problem is that it can be unhealthy, counterproductive, and only work by intimidating and pressuring others with your anger. But you already learned that anger works. Plus, you grew up around angry people. So you’re used to doing things this way. You think it works, even if it’s harmful in the long run, and it certainly gets results, even if they’re not the most positive.

2. You Are Full Of Guilt About Your Traumatic Childhood

Many people who face trauma in childhood begin to internalize the words and actions of those who traumatized them. They may even blame themselves for what happened to them, and if you’re facing this problem, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common struggles that adults with childhood trauma face, according to studies.

You may:

Believe that you deserve negative treatment due to your personal faults
Think that you should have found ways to avoid being traumatized
Feel that your trauma was too “minor” to warrant the emotions you face today
Hold yourself to unreasonable standards to prove your worth to your abusers
Order yourself around and tell yourself what you should do in unreasonable ways, mirroring the words of your abusers
Call yourself names and insults that echo what your abusers told you

All this guilt can make you angry at yourself, and your anger may be self-directed to the point that you self-sabotage, harm yourself, or blame yourself for everything that goes wrong. This self-directed anger is just one of the many ways your childhood trauma may be manifesting as anger.

3. You Think Of Yourself As A Victim

Childhood trauma may have robbed you of many things in life, and knowledge of the ways you were hurt can be enough to make anyone angry. You know you were a victim in that situation, and you may be full of anger and rage towards:

The people who traumatized you
People who do not struggle for trauma. Therefore nobody robbed them of key aspects of their lives
Yourself for not finding ways to get the things you wish you had
Other victims, for having it better or worse than you, or for recovering at a faster or slower rate than you

All this anger focused on victimhood can damage and result in unfairly directed rage in your everyday life. While it is important to understand that you didn’t deserve what happened to you and that you genuinely were a victim, it’s also crucial to not let your entire life be defined by victimhood.

There comes the point where anger at being a victim goes too far and drives you to victimize yourself further. You may think that you have no choice in your life because of your background or may blame all your current problems on your childhood trauma. This isn’t a positive way to deal with your past, nor is it a productive use of anger.

Remember, you’re not a child anymore. While your anger at your abusers is justified, it’s not usable as an excuse for your present-day predicaments. As an adult, you have choices, and it is up to you how you live your life. Don’t let yourself become defined by victimhood.

4. You Don’t Learn Positive Stress Management

As a child, you were meant to have a healthy environment where you learned to regulate your emotions and manage stress with guardians or parent figures. But your childhood trauma may have meant that you never got to know those things, and a lack of those lessons throughout your life can manifest in all sorts of big emotions.

Stress management is often crucial in anger management, and many people who have unhealthy levels and expressions of anger have that rage bubble from stress dysregulation. Many people with trauma wind up with chronic stress, and it’s pretty easy to see how this can become anger for many.

This is topped off with the fact that everyday stressors add even more to that pre-existing stress. You’re constantly at a psychological disadvantage when facing your daily life, and all of that stress can bubble up and explode into anger when you get overwhelmed and run out of ways to cope.

5. You Repress It Into Projection

Anger isn’t always a bad thing. Like all other emotions, it serves a purpose, designed as a healthy response to situations where you are being hurt or treated poorly. But if you have childhood trauma, then chances are that you were being treated poorly as a kid a lot, and those who abused you would have forbidden anger as a response. In fact, being angry as a child could have resulted in more abuse hurled your way.

But all that anger has to go somewhere. But you repressed it down into your brain, where it festers and grows behind the scenes in your subconscious. Since you can’t bring the anger outward, you have to hold it in. This causes you to become disconnected from your direct feelings of anger. You may have trouble noticing mild anger responses – or you might be unable to express any anger at lower levels to begin with.

But then, eventually, you cannot contain that rage anymore. It has to go somewhere, and it often comes out in confusing ways that may confuse and frighten you. You may express that anger towards non-abusive family, towards your colleagues, towards strangers, and even towards groups of people. You project your anger out into the world because you don’t know how to deal with it otherwise.

Projecting anger

This projected anger hurts people around you and is one reason why abuse can become generational, resulting in a cycle. Worse still, studies prove how repressed anger can shorten your lifespan. In other words, it is in your best interests to learn to manage better and direct anger instead of repressing it until it projects.

Feelings and emotions are an integral part of the human experience, and anger as a part of that human experience is a good thing. But when you have childhood trauma, you have had to craft a false version of yourself without these emotions because expressing and showing emotion could get you into trouble.

Furthermore, if parental figures traumatized you, you would have likely tried to craft a false version of yourself to measure up to their desires. You tried to turn into a child they could love, and you got so used to that mask that you continue to use it today. Until you learn to let the mask drop, your anger will remain repressed.

6. You Feel Too Burnt Out

People often have an image of “burned out” individuals that involves someone who is very sad or openly a bit of an anxious wreck. But the truth is that emotional burnout consists of the development of apathy – you stop caring, and things around you that demand your care or emotional empathy tire you out further.

But how does this become anger? Well, you may:

Say unempathetic and hurtful things to those struggling because you don’t want to hear about or care about their suffering.
Lash out at emotional people or any shows of emotion from others because you find them irritating
Get easily annoyed at the people around you because you don’t want to put emotional labor around them.
Stop caring about others, especially those who aren’t suffering as badly as you, to the point where you invalidate other people’s pain.
Snap at anyone asking something of you

7. You Develop A Survival Response

Survival responses are common in those who experienced a traumatic childhood. To maintain any bit of sanity, you as a kid needed to find methods to survive, and your brain did what it could to protect you. Anger is a valuable emotion for survival because it:

It gives you the motivation to keep going.
It helps you to stay strong in the face of injustice
It’s less painful to experience than sadness and fear
Shifts your focus onto getting through something instead of on draining emotions
Lets you fight back
It stops you from becoming submissive
It’s an easy, automatic response to fall back on

These survival responses were essential to your, well, survival as a child. But now, they replace positive thinking and put you in the mindset that you are still constantly under attack. Your brain continues to operate in the survival mode that is learned, so your anger responses are still dominant.

Final Thoughts On Some Reasons Why Traumatic Childhood Transforms Into Adult Anger

You didn’t deserve the trauma you faced as a kid, and as an adult, you don’t have to deal with the effects of childhood trauma alone. A qualified therapist can help you overcome the anger, other emotions, and unhealthy coping strategies from a traumatic childhood. Remember that you deserve to heal, and you can achieve that recovery by seeking help. Things will get better, and your positive thinking will return to you in time.

10 Simple Habits to Open Up Your Root Chakra

June 19, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

The seven chakras are core energy centers located in different areas throughout your body. Your root chakra is at the base of your spine in the same place as your tailbone.

Understanding this chakra can help you open it and boost your overall well-being.

When your root chakra is open, you will feel secure, calm, and anchored. You will feel strong enough to take on new challenges and opportunities while remaining confident throughout the process. Ensuring the openness of your chakra when trying something new or pursuing a goal is essential.

If your chakra is blocked, you might experience threatening feelings, panic, or anxiety. Things that once seemed fine will now seem uncertain, and making decisions will be hard. You might also notice that you struggle to concentrate, and you’re constantly worried.

Open chakras put you on the path to success, but when they are blocked, you will experience unhappiness. Implementing habits to open up your chakras can help change your life for the better and boost your overall well-being.

The Things Your Root Chakra Affects

This chakra is related to all of your basic needs and directly affects your sense of security. It determines how grounded you feel, your physical drives, your survival instincts, and your confidence levels during times of change.

When your root chakra aligns, you will experience inner peace and stability. You can relax and find comfort in your life, and you will feel safe to try new things.

Fifteen Signs of an Unbalanced Root Chakra

On the other hand, when your chakra is blocked, it throws your entire body off. You will feel ungrounded and experience the following problems:

anxiety
feeling unsafe
panic attacks
negative thoughts and behavior
trouble concentrating
unhealthy relationships with food
lack of confidence
self-doubt
difficulty making decisions
worrying about what others think
back pain
digestive issues
leg pain
cold extremities
lethargy

Anything that makes you question your sense of security can block your root chakra. Losing your job, relationship throughs, financial problems, and conflict are all situations that can affect it. Health issues and witnessing scary situations can also block your chakra.

Ten Habits to Open Up Your Root Chakra

1. Stand Up

If you feel like your chakra is blocked, stand up more often. Place your feet shoulder-width apart and try to relax your body with your arms rested comfortably at your sides. Your hips should be slightly forward as you breathe deeply and exhale while thinking of connecting to the earth.

If you can, go outside to do this. It doesn’t take long, and it can help you open your chakra anytime you feel a little off.

2. Think of the Color Red

The color red reminds you of the primal core energy of your root chakra. Wearing the color or incorporating it into your home décor can help you bring it into your life each day. You can also visualize the color red as you meditate, envisioning it as a ball of energy running down your spine.

3. Write in Your Journal

Journaling is an effective way to activate your chakra. It helps you connect with your inner self, thoughts, beliefs, and feelings. As you work to connect with your energy centers, journaling helps in a few ways because you can focus on the following things:

writing affirmations
using journal prompts on chakras
listing things that you are grateful for

As you begin to journal, remind yourself that you are connecting to your root chakra. Setting the intention will help you get in touch with your inner-self as you write your thoughts. Allow honesty and authenticity to flow as you write because that is the only way to awaken your chakra.

4. Grounding

A simple way to open up your chakra is to make a habit of grounding. Grounding helps you feel connected to the world and like you aren’t alone.

Grounding helps reduce feelings of anxiety as it slows your heart rate and eases irrational thoughts. It also enables you to stay in the present rather than spending your time with regret or worry. Some habits to help you with grounding include:

walking on the grass barefoot
relaxing your body and listening to the wind or birds
going swimming in an ocean or lake
gardening
going for hikes

5. Use Affirmations

Using positive affirmations to awaken your chakra is efficient and easy. You can repeat affirmations anywhere, making them a beneficial way to open up your chakra when you’re on the go. Combining positive statements with meditation or yoga whenever possible is even better.

Use positive affirmations as you get ready for the day and again during each transition in your day. You can also take a break when feeling stressed or overwhelmed to repeat them.

6. Practice Breathing Techniques

You can’t always stop doing something to meditate or do yoga, but you can always use breathing exercises. Breathing exercises will help you find calmness, balance, and inner peace, helping you open up your chakra. These techniques can help reduce anxiety and stress while boosting your overall well-being.

7. Eat Whole Foods

Your diet affects your chakras, so eating whole foods can help you open them up. When you eat from the earth in the most natural way possible, you will feel the positive energy flowing. Making small changes to your diet can make a big difference, and you don’t have to change it all at once.

Avoid adding extra salt or sugar to your food, and eliminate saturated fats from your diet. Consuming more fruits and vegetables is a big help with all of your chakras, but certain foods are specific to your root chakra. These foods include anything organic, plus:

protein-rich foods like beans, tofu, peas, spinach, and almonds
red foods including strawberries, cherries, tomatoes, and red bell peppers
root vegetables such as beets, garlic, and potatoes

8. Use Chakra Stones

Learning about and using chakra stones can help you open your chakras quickly. Chakra stones are unique stones that you can hold or wear as jewelry.

Each chakra stone is associated with a different chakra. The ones related to the root chakra are the red jasper, red carnelian, obsidian, and bloodstone.

Red Jasper

This stone helps with balancing and can help with erratic mood swings as it opens your chakra. It will calm you down in overwhelming situations and help you refocus your thoughts.

Red Carnelian

Although it is pale red, this stone often has orange hues throughout it. It correlates with strength, cleansing, and bravery, helping you overcome fearfulness and encouraging you to leave your comfort zone.

Obsidian

This stone is black and is thought to protect you from harm. It will bring you comfort and security while opening your chakra.

Bloodstone

While this stone is green, it has red spots throughout. It pushes away negative energy while boosting confidence as it unblocks your chakra.

9. Move Often and Mindfully

Any physical movement can open your heart chakra, including running errands to doing housework. As long as you are aware of your body and actions, you will experience healing and openness.

You can also go on mindful walks, being aware of your body with every step you take. It doesn’t matter where you walk as long as you pay attention to your breathing and movement. Notice the sensation of your foot touching the ground or your arms swaying in the breeze.

Another beneficial form of movement to open your chakra is dancing. You can dance with others or alone, as long as you let the rhythm guide you. Visualize negative energy leaving your body as you dance, and you will feel even more connected to the earth.

10. Practice Meditation and Yoga

Meditation and yoga both help with opening your chakra, and doing them together are even more beneficial. Your root chakra sits at the base of your spine, so as you hold your yoga poses, focus your attention on that area.

Developing a yoga routine will help you heal, balance, and open up your chakra. Since you likely can’t take a break to do yoga randomly throughout the day, implementing a time in the morning or evening is helpful.

Another option is to do a quick yoga pose at your desk or in your seat. Relax and sit with your shoulders back and your spine straight while keeping your eyes closed. Breathe deeply through your nose and exhale through your mouth while keeping your attention on your root chakra.

Final Thoughts on Simple Habits to Open Up Your Root Chakra

When your root chakra is blocked, life can feel confusing and out of control. Forming simple habits to open it up can make all the difference in your life, helping you regain confidence.

If you feel like your chakra might be blocked, try some of these methods for opening it back up. When you find ones that work for you, implement them into your daily routine. With positive habits, your root chakra can remain open all of the time.

11 Times Poor Digestion Might Mean Something Worse

June 19, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Having poor digestion can make your life miserable. It can affect your overall wellbeing as well as your daily activities, which can lead to issues such as anxiety and depression. Even if you try to monitor what you eat, the smallest of things can trigger a problem.

Due to the sensitivity of your gut, you may find you avoid social situations as well as eating out for fear that an episode may be triggered. Your body gives you signs and symptoms that you need to listen to. There are ways to heal your gut and improve your digestion.

Balancing your gut flora can be done with some lifestyle changes, making your bowel habits regular. Did you know that some health conditions that plague Americans are caused by a poor diet and a lack of good bacteria in their gut? Altering your diet and lifestyle can have a significant impact.

Eleven Signs That Your Poor Digestion Needs Evaluating

Some people have fought with poor digestion their entire life, and they don’t think much about it. They’ve learned to live with their symptoms as it’s become a new normal. However, you don’t have to live with these issues when you can control them by making some lifestyle changes.

Here are some symptoms that indicate you need to evaluate your poor digestion further.

1. Abnormal Bowel Movements

One of the first and foremost signs of poor digestive health can be seen in your feces. Your bowel movements come in all shapes, colors, and consistencies. However, it shouldn’t be loose and watery or odd color.

If your excrement is black, then it’s a sign of old blood in your digestive system. However, if it’s white, then it’s a sign of significant issues in your biliary system. If something doesn’t look average or typical for you, then you need to seek medical attention, as there can be serious issues when the biliary system is involved.

Sadly, many cancers are observed by changes in bowel habits, and the quicker you catch a malignancy, the greater your chances of recovery. According to an article with the Cleveland Clinic, 85 percent of all colon cancers are preventable if you have routine colonoscopies.

2. Constipation

Did you know that you should have at least one bowel movement each day? If you go two or more days without passing stool, then you’re considered medically constipated. Many folks think that IBS means loose stool, but you can have IBS-C, which means you also have constipation with it.

Many things can trigger irregularity, including a high-stress lifestyle. It’s essential that you get rid of any build-up as it can cause issues such as an impacted bowel.

3. Acid Reflux

Acid reflux can often be one of the most unrecognizable symptoms of IBS. According to a study conducted by Lauren B. Gerson, MD for Everyday Health, over 40 percent of those with this common bowel issue also have acid reflux problems. The overlap in these two conditions is often missed, but those who have anxiety triggered by poor gut health may also suffer from GERD.

4. Foul Taste in Your Mouth

It will help if you distinguish what is causing the foul taste in your mouth. First, it can come from the things you eat, like garlic, onions, or other spices. Second, it can be from something internal that has nothing to do with your food intake.

For instance, a sour taste or one that is metallic in nature might come from digestive issues. Unless you’re plagued with halitosis, then it’s worth investigating this unsavory taste.

5. Painful Bowel Movements

Going to the bathroom is never a pleasant experience, but sometimes it’s painful. Pain while pooping is a sign of poor digestion and IBS. If you find that you suffer when using the restroom after you eat a meal, it needs to be investigated.

Your gut flora needs to be balanced. You can help provide clues to what’s causing this by keeping a food journal. Whenever you notice that you have painful bowel movements, you can notate what foods triggered this response.

You may have a gluten intolerance as well as allergies to corn, soy, dairy, vegetable oils, or the stress in your life might be affecting your digestion. Did you know there is a direct link between mental health issues and your gut flora?

According to an article written on Harvard’s medical blog, they state that many of the nerves between your gut and brain are connected, specifically the vagus nerve. There is strong evidence that poor diet may be a contributing factor to anxiety and depression, though more research is needed.

6. Fatigue

Chronic fatigue is something that accompanies many illnesses, so you might not relate it to your digestion. However, your digestive system can have a significant impact on your energy levels. When you deal with bloating and frequent bowel movements, it can drain your resources.

Another common issue with IBS is that you don’t get adequate sleep. If your trips to the bathroom become so frequent that it interrupts your rest, then it can affect your overall energy level. Don’t be so quick to think there’s something else going on with your health if you have an irritable bowel and you’re exhausted all the time.

7. Heart Palpitations

Heart palpitations are a broad term used to describe any issues with the beating or rhythm of the heart. Palpitations occur when the heart is beating too fast or too slow, or you feel like it’s doing flip flops. It’s startling that heart palpitations can be a side effect of poor digestion and irritable bowel, but it’s true.

Anxiety is another major cause of heart palpitations, so it’s often challenging to distinguish between the two. However, it can be digestive issues and an irritable bowel that’s causing your heart problems. When your heart is acting abnormally, it’s essential to have it checked out.

8. Swelling and Bloating

The foods you’re eating are triggering an allergic reaction in your digestive system. The problem is that this causes you to have frequent bowel movements, abdominal pain, and you don’t get the nutrients you need from your food. All this inflammation and other chaos going on in your bowels can cause bloating.

A classic way to tell if this issue is food-related can be identified right after you eat. Your stomach can become distended even if you haven’t eaten a large meal; you will feel like you finished a feast. A gastroenterologist can quickly identify if the issues with bloating are food and IBS-related or coming from another problem.

9. Loss of Appetite

When you have issues with chronic diarrhea, and your body is losing the vital nutrients and electrolytes it needs, it can affect your appetite. While you probably think it wouldn’t hurt you to turn down a few meals for weight loss, it’s the nutrients you need to help your system thrive.

It would help if you tried to eat as many meals as possible as the loss of nutrition can be very problematic for your health.

10. Frequent Urges to Urinate

Do you constantly feel the urge to pee, even if you just urinated? It could be your bowels that are causing the issues. This urge has nothing to do with your bladder being full, but you’re having spasms caused by problems in your digestive system.

Running to the bathroom constantly can disrupt your day, and you can alleviate some of these issues by simply changing your diet and lifestyle. Nothing is worse than being stuck somewhere and feeling these sensations, so knowing you can fix it gives you a glimmer of hope.

11. Chronic Diarrhea

You already know that your bowel habits are one of the most significant indicators of poor gut health, but people who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome often struggle with diarrhea. In fact, diarrhea may be so common that you usually don’t have a solid stool. Many symptoms accompany loose stools, such as urgency, frequency, or just softer than normal feces.

Final Thoughts on Poor Digestion and Overall Health

When you think that you’re eating habits and lifestyle can make a difference in your digestion, it’s a frightening thought. When you don’t eat the proper foods, your body cannot absorb the nutrients it needs; thus, you lack things to make your system function properly.

However, conditions like IBS can have genetic links, but they can be managed through lifestyle and diet changes. Poor digestion can certainly mess with your gut and even your brain health, but it can cause many other issues throughout your body that shouldn’t be ignored.

What you put into your mouth has a significant impact on your total well-being. While sugar sweets and carbohydrate-laden foods taste delicious, a diet full of these items can cause you to feel bloated, miserable, and have health issues that impact your quality of life.

While there’s no cure for IBS, you can control it with diet modification. You will feel so much better when you are free from bloating and pain.

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