Page 438

25 Ways to Keep Bad Smells Out of Your Home

March 9, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Is your home a harbor for bad smells? Do you have pets, teenagers, and shoes that need to be fumigated? You can live in a house with good air quality by changing a few of your cleaning rituals. A little extra work can make a big difference. Our professional home cleaners in Inverness can give you back the time in your life.

25 Easy Ways to Keep Your Home Smelling Fresh

It’s a constant struggle to keep up with your home, job, and family. Do you have an area of concern that is really bothering you, like the laundry? Every family has a unique smell about their home based on their spices for cooking and their lifestyle.

However, if you want to make sure your home has a pleasant aroma, then follow some of these tips.

1. Empty the Trash Frequently

Your trash is the most significant cause of odors in your home. Never let the trash overflow and sit for days. If you have an abundance of trash, then you should take it out frequently.

2. Don’t Smoke Inside

While it’s challenging to smoke outside when it’s cold or raining, cigarette smoke can destroy the inside of a home. It’s one of the bad smells that is dangerous when it’s lurking inside.

If you can’t stop this habit, then smoke in a covered area. It would help if you talked to your doctor about ways to help you quit for your health and those around you.

3. Bathe Your Dogs

Dogs should be bathed at least once a month, and they may need more baths during the winter months. Nothing smells worse than a dirty dog that has had their grooming neglected. Lather up Fido and use some essential oils like clove to help keep odors at bay.

4. Wipe Pet Paws When It’s Raining

Is there anything worse than the smell of a wet dog? Since dogs must use the restroom outside, you should try to wipe their paws and body with a towel when they come back inside during inclement weather. The smell of a wet dog can penetrate your carpet and cause an awful aroma.

5. Deep Clean the Bathroom Frequently

So, the bathroom is one place that could be classified as a hazardous dumpsite. First, you should make sure to flush after each use. Second, the commode needs a good scrubbing at least once a week, if not more frequently. Don’t forget to wipe down the shower and get rid of any soap scum. And if you need other repair services like for instance plumber indianapolis services, make sure to contact professional contractors for expert services. And if you have plumbing issues like a toilet not flushing, make sure to contact a plumber. You may consider getting the services from Wills Plumbing Services for prompt action. And if you need water heater repair services, make sure to enlist the help of the professionals.

6. Don’t Let Dirty Dishes Sit

Dirty dishes can get a funk as well as develop strong odors. Have you tried to scrape spaghetti off a plate that has set for days? It can be like chiseling concrete, trying to get it clean.

Since most households have a dishwasher, rinse your dishes, and put them through the wash. Never let dishes sit longer than a few hours as bacteria start growing immediately.

7. Empty Cooking Grease

Cooking grease has an awful odor about it. If you want to save your bacon drippings, put it in a covered container, and put it in the refrigerator. Grease is also a big attraction for bugs and vermin.

8. Scoop the Kitty Litter Box Daily

Cat litter boxes have bad smells if they don’t get emptied regularly. Make sure to scoop out the droppings every day or every other day to prevent odors.

9. Throw Out Leftovers After Three Days

Benjamin Franklin said that the company and fish both stink after three days, so you don’t want to keep leftovers long. Fruits and vegetables are big culprits of rotting and getting shoved into a drawer in your refrigerator. If you’re going to keep your icebox smelling fresh, then pitch leftovers sooner rather than later.

10. Have a Designated Area for Shoes

Shoes and boots can really carry some nasty smells. If you have a garage, it’s a great place to store stinky shoes. When someone in the home has foot odor, it can penetrate the entire house. Designate an area where you can store the smelly shoes to keep your home smelling fresh.

11. Clean Sink Drains with Deodorizer

When you’re washing dishes or rinsing them for the dishwasher, it’s only natural that bits of food go down the drain. You can stop the smells that cause odors by using drain deodorizers. They make special drain sticks that can slip into the drain and keep odors at bay.

12. Change Furnace Filter Regularly

Your furnace filters collect dust particles as well as toxins in the air. Each furnace has different requirements, but typically, you should change it once a month. Duct cleaning can also help to keep the fresh air moving through your home.

13. Deodorize the Trash Cans

While you’re emptying your trash cans, take the time to clean them too. Sprinkle baking soda inside the can, and hose it off. Your bins get all kinds of spills and food debris left on the inside and out, and you want to clean it off.

14. Keep Up with Your Laundry

Nothing is as smells as bad as dirty socks and musty towels. If you do just one or two loads of laundry each day, then you won’t have any build-up. Using chemical-based fabric softeners and detergents should be tossed for earth-friendly ones too.

Laundry is a big problem for many working people, but you should get the whole family involved to help with this chore.

15. Keep Bathroom Windows Open

Do you have a window in your bathroom? You should keep the fresh air flowing in this frequently used room. If you don’t have a window, make sure you have an operational ventilation fan to help with bad smells.

16. Don’t Fry Foods Use Crockpots and Air Fryers Instead

Frying foods permeate the entire home, especially if you fry something as potent as fish. A better way to cook with less mess is to use a crockpot or an air fryer. Plus, these methods are healthier too.

17. Sprinkle Carpets with Baking Soda and Vacuum Often

You should vacuum your carpets a couple of times a week. Before you do this chore, sprinkle some baking soda on them and allow it to penetrate for an hour or so. Baking soda really helps get rid of smells in the home.

18. Open Your Windows When Possible

When it’s a lovely day outside, then you should open as many windows as possible. Let the sunshine and fresh air blow through your home and bring with it the healing kiss of Mother Nature.

19. Run the Washer on the Cleaning Cycle

If you have a front loader washing machine, they can harbor bad smells after so many washes. Did you know that they have a self-cleaning mode to help get rid of any aromas? Plus, a washing machine that is not thoroughly cleaned can make the clothes stink too.

20. Clean Garbage Disposal with Lemon or Orange Rinds

About once a month, make sure to put some ice cubes with lemon or orange rinds down your garbage disposal and allow it to run with warm water for a few minutes. The food builds up on the inside of these can cause horrific smells.

21. Launder Linens Regularly

Change your sheets and pillowcases once a week, and wash your blankets once a month. You sweat, and your natural body odors can give the whole bed a weird smell.

22. Make Sure Basement Has No Stagnant Water

Make sure your sump pump is working if you have a basement. If there is stagnate water sitting in a crawl space or basement, it can permeate your whole abode. It’s also a health hazard to have standing water, so make sure you keep this area dry.

23. Clean the Filter In Your Dishwasher

Did you know that your dishwasher needs cleaned? Since it removes food, it has a trap where this stuff is collected. A build-up of food can cause some smelly situations.

24. Deep Clean Your Carpets Annually

If you have carpeting, you need to shampoo your carpets at least once a year. When you have pets in the home with carpeting, you might want to do it twice a year. Carpets collect a lot of dust and bacteria from constant foot traffic. Don’t wear your shoes in the house to cut down on the need for more frequent cleaning. For professional results and a deeper clean, consider services like Carpet Cleaning Laguna Niguel.

25. Use an Air Purifier

Air purifiers are great for bad smells, especially when you have people with sensitive allergies like asthma. You can get a small tabletop unit or opt for a more extensive system that is professionally installed with your HVAC unit. If you have pollutants like cigarette smoke, heavy cooking smells, and pets, then it’s worth the investment. If you suspect that the smell comes from your HVAC unit, make sure to have an hvac system repair immediately. Call emergency ac repair services in Fort Worth, TX to repair it. You may also check nearby services like AirMax Heating and Air for job opportunities.

Replace chemical deodorants with these natural beauty products.

Final Thoughts on Bad Smells in Your Home

Candles and air fresheners only mask the odors, but you need to get to the root cause. Isn’t it funny how people will put these round disk deodorizers on their litter boxes? If they just cleaned it a bit more, they wouldn’t need to cover up the smell.

You can change a few things about your cleaning routine and the way you store items, and it will make a big difference. Carpets are a significant source of odors, which is why so many people are ripping them out and going for wood floors. Whatever you can do to help your home be safer and smell better will only make it more comfortable for all who live there.

12 Habits That Make it Easier to Motivate Yourself

March 8, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Everybody needs a little motivation from time to time. There are many psychological theories on how to accomplish this, but you must find the methods that work for you to be successful. It would help if you transformed motivation into excitement.

The world can be an extremely negative place at times. You wonder how you can get through another day with all the things you must accomplish. How can you push yourself to be all you can be while remaining positive?

Twelve Ways to Motivate Yourself Without Being Critical

Thankfully, this is an area of psychology that has been well studied. You can accomplish everything your heart desires by merely changing your mindset. Just like a child, you may need to use some motivation tactics to give you some pep in your step. Here are 12 ways that you can motivate yourself to keep going without using any self-criticism.

1. Use A Reward System

Have you ever used a star chart for your children to reward them for a job well done? Well, even though you’re grown and have adult responsibilities, you can still benefit from a reward system.

According to Brain Facts, when you reward yourself, you stimulate the dopamine-producing neurons, making you feel good. Who doesn’t need a little natural boost in your brain’s chemicals?

It feels good when you can see that you’ve accomplished something, and it feels even better to be rewarded. Your brain will respond to these positive stimuli and will want to do more to be compensated.

2. Know When You Need A Break

As adults, you try to push yourself to accomplish all that you must daily. However, you need to know when you need a break. Remember when you were little, and you would play a game with your friends. When you surrendered or gave up, you would say that you cried “uncle.”

Now that you’re an adult, you need to know when it’s time to cry “uncle.” You can only take so much, and only you can determine when it’s time to take a necessary break.

3. Keep Your Plans to Yourself

Why is it that when people have exciting things on the horizon, they feel the need to get on social media and broadcast it to the world? Plans change, and people go in different directions all the time. You don’t want to answer 100 questions about failed dreams, so leave things off social media until it’s a done deal.

4. Define Your Legacy

What is your purpose here on earth? Do you live each day with purpose, or do you meander through life like a lost soul?

When you define your legacy, you dictate what you were put on this earth to do. If you want to motivate yourself, then you must determine your reason for existence.

5. Cut Your to Do List

Do you put so much on your to-do list that there’s no way you can accomplish it all? Start being realistic with yourself and only put down the things you know you can do. When you have a daunting list of impossibilities, it’s not going to give you any motivation to finish the tasks.

6. Never Compare Yourself to Others

Do you look at friends and relatives around you and compare your life? The grass always looks greener on the other side, but that’s because you don’t know the struggles that it takes each person to obtain what they have.

Additionally, don’t motivate yourself to gain material possessions as those things only last for a matter of time. It would help if you left behind more than money and worldly goods. Whether you’re a millionaire or have $20 in the bank, all graves look the same. Strive to be the best you possible and stop looking in the windows of other homes and beating yourself up.

7. Celebrate Victories No Matter How Small

It would be best if you celebrate your milestones, no matter how trivial they seem. Did you get a raise at work? Who cares if it’s only a quarter, you deserve every dime you make? Take time to celebrate yourself and your accomplishments, as it will make you feel like doing even more.

8. Change Your Way of Thinking

How is your mindset? Do you tend to be a positive or a negative person? Your brain is the first place you need to start to motivate yourself. Practice positive thinking and kick negative thoughts to the curb.

If you think you will fail at everything you set out to accomplish, then the chances are that you will. However, if you believe that you will have a fantastic day and accomplish everything on your list, then chances are that you will be successful.

9. Cut the Chaos

There’s so much chaos nowadays that you must learn to disconnect to stay motivated. How many times are you distracted from text messages, email alerts, or phone calls? Sometimes it’s essential to unplug so that you can have the focus to get things done.

There’s no reason to check your emails more than 2-3 times a day. If it’s something important, the person can call you. Text messages are also usually not necessary. If you’re continually filtering calls, emails, texts, and social media alerts, then your motivation will lack.

10. Embrace Your Vulnerability

Wouldn’t it be nice if you were a perfect person who never made a mistake? What if your life was the object of envy from others because you were so flawless? There’s no way that you will ever be perfect, and no one else is perfect either.

It’s time to embrace your vulnerable spots, and sharing your story with others can help them become motivated. Did you fight a health battle that you came out on the other side, okay? You never know when your testimony will help someone else going through a test in their life.

Never be afraid to show your failures because it makes you a human being. People like folks who can be real with themselves and others. The fake people try to act like they have it all together that rubs individuals the wrong way.

11. Use Positive Affirmations

Do you practice positive affirmations as soon as you awaken in the morning? If you don’t, then you’re missing out on one of the best ways to motivate yourself. When you see the sun peak over the horizon, tell yourself things like this:

Today is going to be a great day.
I will embrace my vulnerabilities.
I am loved.
I’m successful.
I will accomplish everything on my to-do list.
I will take time for me.
My challenges will be lessons.
I will eat healthily.
I’ll help others who need me.
I am thankful for all the Universe has given me.

If you want to watch your whole attitude improve, then start saying things like this to yourself. Now, to take things a step further and motivate your family, why not say something like this to your spouse or children too. Imagine how much better this work would be if everyone started looking at things opportunistically.

12. Meditate Often

Did you know that meditation is an ancient art that dates back more than 5,000 years? According to Time Magazine, it started as a spiritual practice. However, today it’s become more about psychology and less about faith. Meditation is the key to ridding your mind of all the negativity of the day.

Did you know that you don’t need to be any wear fancy to practice this art? If you’re having a terrible day at work, then you can escape to your car and do a quick session there. All you need is a place to decompress and let the negativity go.

There are guided meditations for those who are new to this art, or you can do your version without music and soothing voices. The key is to get your breathing under control, which regulates your heart rate. Your stress will reduce, and you will feel empowered when you learn how to turn all your negativity into motivation and success.

Final Thoughts on Motivating Yourself

It’s hard to motivate yourself every day, and there’s no reason to sugar coat things and say it’s always going to be a walk in the park. There’s going to be a time when nothing but a good nap and a vacation works, and it’s okay to give yourself time off.

Society is flawed into thinking that everything must be perfect for it to work. When you can’t get anything right or get all you need to be done in a day, you need to call on your support system.

Above all else, you need a support system that you can call at a moment’s notice for help. These people always know just what to say to keep you from throwing in the towel. When you need a boost in your step or additional assistance, turn to a trusted friend to give you that boost you need.

20 Habits That Make it Easier to Kick Toxic Negativity Out of Your Life

March 7, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Is toxic negativity ruining your life? Do you wish that you could be more positive and happier? Does every day seem to be worse than the one before?

Does this sound like your life? It’s time to make some drastic changes to improve your outlook. Being constantly negative can eat away at your soul like cancer. Life is hard enough without you putting additional pressure on yourself.

Some experts suggest that you pick a personal mantra to motivate you. Others suggest that you need a pet to help you ease the stresses of the day. What works for one person certainly won’t work for another, but there is something that you can find to help you.

20 Ways to Kick Toxic Negativity to The Curve

To be a more positive person, you will need to take inventory of your life, friends, and overall habits. Are you ready to make such a change? Well, here are 20 habits that can help you kick toxic negativity to the curb.

1. Avoid Pessimistic People

Your inner circle will say a lot about the kind of person you are inside. Remember the old saying that “Birds of a feather flock together?” Well, if you surround yourself with negativity, then you will be negative. If necessary, make new friends.

2. Practice Positive Affirmations

Start each day with a boost of positivity. Using positive affirmations is a powerful way to change your mindset. A study was conducted at the GEMS Wellington Academy in the UK. They talked to plants both positively and negatively.

The plants that were spoken to in an uplifting manner thrived, while the ones that were talked negatively were in poor health. Use this as a lesson and speak positivity into your soul.

3. Listen to Uplifting Music

Music can put a boost in your step and help you get through the day. Forget all those songs about lost loves and people that have passed on. It would help if you had something to get your toes tapping.

Music is a great motivator, and did you know that music is often used to calm animals or help Alzheimer’s patients who need to relax? There have been many studies on this topic, and it’s all positive research. Find some tunes that speak harmony to your soul, and it can improve your mood.

4. Set Realistic Goals for Yourself

One problem that many people have is that they set goals for themselves that are completely unrealistic. You’re not a superhero, and you can’t manage it all. Make your goals more achievable so that you can have time for yourself.

5. Get Adequate Rest

How much sleep do you get each night? If you’re not getting at least 6-8 hours, you are doing yourself a great disservice. It’s hard to be positive and feel good when you have a sleep debt.

6. Change Your Diet

If you’re consuming fast food, sugary sweets, and processed junk, then it’s going to make you feel horrible. If you want to be a positive person, then you need to feel good. When you start eliminating some of these things from your diet, it will make a huge difference.

7. Hit the Gym

One of the reasons why you may experience negativity is because you feel horrible. When’s the last time you hit the gym? The University of Turku in Finland did a study on the power of exercise on depression and anxiety. They found that working out increases not only your serotonin and dopamine levels but also releases feel-good hormones.

8. Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness helps you to stop looking at the big picture and live in the moment. Life is stressful enough without trying to worry about your tomorrow during today. Try to stay present in the here and now and leave tomorrow’s troubles for another day.

9. Incorporate Journaling

Journaling is a great way to get things off your chest. You can write whatever you want in this journal, and no one ever must see it but you. Journaling can be a therapeutic process that helps to get what’s inside out.

10. Change the Way You Look at Things

If you change the way you look at things, it can help transform your toxic negativity. Stop viewing the glass as half empty when you still have half a glass to go. Your perceptions mean everything when it comes to your pessimism.

11. Give Back to Others

Nothing can kick toxic negativity to the curb than giving back to others. When you see how others must live, it helps you put things into perspective. It’s kind of hard to be melancholy when you see people who don’t have a roof over their head or anything to eat.

12. Make Your Home A Haven

Change your home to make it into a haven where you can rest. What can you remove or add to your space to make it feel more tranquil? Adding water and fire elements are a great place to start, so get a fountain and some candles to enhance the ambiance.

13. Practice Gratitude

Are you thankful for all that you have in life, or are you constantly complaining that you want more? Learning to practice gratitude can change your attitude. There’s no reason you need to “keep up with the Jones,” as you have no idea the struggles; they must pay all their bills.

14. Keep Your Work and Home Life Separate

One big issue that can cause toxic negativity is not keeping your home and work life separate. When you bring the stresses from the day into your home, then you’re going to take things out on those closest to you. Remember, when you leave work for the day, remove the negative emotions that come with it.

15. Stop Being So Hard on Yourself

Give yourself a break! You bring much of the negativity on yourself because you’re so hard on yourself. If you can only learn your worth, you would treat yourself a little bit differently.

16. Reward Yourself

First, you need to make sure that you have time for self-care. An empty pot cannot pour into others, so you need to make sure you’re replenishing yourself. Additionally, when you try something new, like getting rid of negativity, you should reward yourself.

Rewards systems work great for adults and kids alike, and you deserve a little treat now and again.

17. Build Good Relationships with Coworkers

Since you must spend at least 40 hours a week at work, why not build good relationships with the people you’re around? Sure, there are negative Nelly’s that you want to avoid, but you can select good coworkers who will make your day way better.

18. Quit Dwelling on The Past

Why do so many people think that their past is a life sentence? What happened yesterday is not nearly as important as what will occur tomorrow. If you need counseling to deal with trauma, then get help. Stop letting the past dictate your future.

19. Learn Meditation

Meditation is one of the best ways to clear your mind and rid it of negativity. Something magical happens when you learn just to let everything go and focus on being more positive. It will change your entire life.

20. Stop Multitasking

It was once thought that multitasking was the component of a good worker. However, the evidence is now showing that those who are multitasking regularly are confusing their brain. According to the Cleveland Clinic, multi-tasking gives divided attention to many things when you could accomplish more by focusing on one task.

What about texting and driving? That would be an example of multitasking that not only doesn’t make sense but is quite dangerous. Please focus on the road ahead rather than the cell phone. While other instances may not be as serious, they can be just as chaotic to your brain.

Final Thoughts on Toxic Negativity

It’s hard to be positive in a world that is so full of hate and toxic negativity. Thankfully, you can learn to turn over a new leaf, and it will change your entire life. You’re extensively known by the company you keep, and it may be time to re-assess your friendships.

Some friends drain the life right out of you with their toxic negativity, while others are a breath of fresh air that gives you hope. Choose your friends wisely. Another prominent bone of contention with most people is their job. If your job makes you miserable, then life’s too short to stay in a career that makes you unhappy.

There are plenty of jobs out there, and when you find the right career for you, working won’t seem like such a chore. Today is the right time to make a change. You will be amazed at how much better you feel when you release what’s been holding you back.

12 Signs A Dry Cough Might Be Something More Serious

March 7, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Do you have a nagging cough that is driving you crazy? There are many reasons why that dry cough is hanging around, but some of the reasons may indicate that something more sinister lurks inside your body. While you may feel that ignoring this cough is the easiest thing to do, you could be sidestepping a severe medical issue, especially if it won’t go away.

Twelve Signs Your Dry Cough Is Something More Serious

If you’re plagued by a cough that doesn’t seem to be getting any better, then you should see your doctor for a precise diagnosis. Here are some signs that you should call the doctor to see what’s going on.

1. You Have Heartburn, Too

Heartburn alone is a difficult problem to combat. However, did you know that a nagging cough can be a sign that you have acid reflux or GERD? When the sphincters between the stomach and the esophagus don’t close properly, it can allow stomach acids to escape into the throat area.

The acids burn the esophagus, which triggers coughing as you struggle to keep these acids from entering this area. According to the National Institute of Health, GERD is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. Acid can cause a condition called Barret’s Esophagus if left untreated.

Barret’s Esophagus is often observed in people who have battled GERD for long periods. The intestinal lining gets into the esophagus and grows to replace the damaged tissues. While having this disease is bad enough, it’s often a precursor for cancer.

It’s common for esophageal adenocarcinoma to form from the damages caused by the stomach acids being in places it’s not meant to be. Sadly, this is often deadly cancer. If you always feel like there’s something caught in your throat, and you have frequent bouts of heartburn, then you need to have this issue addressed.

2. There’s a Heaviness in Your Chest

Many things can cause your chest to feel heavy, and you may feel like you have a heart attack. For instance, acid shooting up into this area can cause a burning and heavy sensation.

While things from gas to a pulled muscle can cause uncomfortable sensations in your chest area, you have such a feeling anytime. It must be evaluated. Your dry cough can signify that your heart or lungs aren’t working correctly, which can be a serious issue that needs prompt assistance.

3. You’re Struggling to Breathe

Anytime you’re short of breath or struggling to breathe, it’s always a sign that something is going on. You could have a common cold, an allergy condition, or heart and lung problems. If the trouble comes and goes along with the cough, then it’s an ongoing issue that indicates an underlying problem.

An article by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute points out that coughing is a primary symptom of asthma. Common triggers include cold air, strong odors, and exercising.

You may experience wheezing, choking, or gasping to catch your next breath. Make sure not to put off emergency help if you cannot breathe properly.

4. You Feel Lightheaded

Do you commonly experience a light-headed feeling, or is this something new? When you’re coughing, do you feel this dizzy sensation, or is it at various other times? Lightheadedness accompanied by a nagging cough can indicate a loss of oxygen to the body, which can mean a heart or lung issue.

If it happens one time, then you might be more apt to let it slide, but if it keeps happening, then see a medical provider. If your oxygen levels are not where they need to be, then you can pass out.

5. You Can’t Stop Coughing

Nothing is worse than starting into a coughing binge and being unable to stop. This is common with croup or other viral infections that bring about this hacking. However, if this keeps happening time and again, then it may indicate a serious underlying problem.

You might suspect a condition like bronchitis when you can’t stop coughing, but bronchitis usually produces mucus, and the cough associated with it is not dry in nature. If you’re having frequent coughing fits, then have it checked out.

6. You’re Unable to Talk or Carry on A Conversation Without Coughing

Do you struggle to carry on a conversation because all you do is cough and struggle for breath? Chronic coughing can be a sign of allergies. However, don’t just pass it off as allergies as it can be 100 other things too. Try not to self-diagnose when it comes to these issues, as the internet only works in generalities.

If you’re coughing so much that it becomes hard to even talk to a friend or family member, then something is majorly wrong. Chronic lung conditions like emphysema and COPD can cause issues of this nature. Additionally, your oxygen levels may be dropping too low, and you’re probably struggling to catch your breath.

Make this honey ginger tea to stop coughing immediately.

7. You Cough So Hard You Notice Blood

Some coughing is productive, while others tend to be a nagging annoyance. Whatever you’re facing, one thing that is always a cause for alarm is when you see blood after you cough. Blood is a sign that something is irritated in your breathing system.

Coughing up blood can be a sign of cancer, lung disease, or that you’ve coughed so hard you’ve broken blood vessels. Anytime you cough and see blood, it’s considered an emergency.

8. The Dry Cough Is Seasonally Based

Some nagging coughs show up in the spring and fall seasons when allergies are at their worst. Do you notice that you cough more when the grass is cut or when you’re around fresh flowers?

Your dry and hacking cough can be irritation from your airways. While it’s annoying, it’s not necessarily dangerous. Many herbal remedies can help you combat seasonal allergies with ease.

9. Pink Foam in Your Mucus

Another odd sign that something is wrong is when you cough and pink foam appears in your mouth. One contributor to this is a vagal reflex. This reflex is present when the heart is insufficiently pumping, which means you lack oxygen.

The vagal reflex that causes the dry cough can also be triggered by heart insufficiency. Pink foam or a pink tinge to anything you cough up must be treated as an emergency. You may notice a heaviness in your chest and shortness of breath along with this symptom.

Don’t delay getting because, according to the National Institute of Health, the vagal reflex can cause you to have a heart attack or reflex bradycardia.

10. Your Feel Like There’s Something in Your Throat

Coughing is a natural reaction from the body to clear the throat area. It’s not uncommon for people to inhale something into their windpipe that impedes airflow. Now, your airflow may be slowed but not stopped, so you must be careful.

If you get something like a piece of a potato chip stuck in your throat, then it can irritate or cut the area. You may cough and hack trying to remove this section of food that’s lodged in your esophagus. Even after you expel the food, the irritation can last–especially if it damaged the tissue.

Now another reason why you may feel that sensation stems from a condition called atypical pneumonia.

Unlike traditional pneumonia, atypical doesn’t produce any mucus or phlegm. With regular pneumonia, the cough is very productive as the body is trying to rid the infection from the lungs. You can still have pneumonia and have a dry, unproductive cough, which means you should take any chronic coughing issue seriously.

11. Throat Is Sore with Dry Cough

Is your throat sore when you cough? Do you feel as if it’s dry and scratchy, and it burns with every drink you take? A couple of things can be going on here. First, you may have a bacterial or viral infection that’s causing this issue.

Second, you may be experiencing seasonal allergies. Postnasal drip can go down the back of your throat and irritate the lining. A natural reflex may cause your coughing as the throat is scratchy and raw, and the body feels as if something is stuck.

12. You Have a Fever and Ache All Over

Does your dry cough come with a fever and aching, and chills all over your body? You may have the flu. While sometimes the flu is accompanied by an upper respiratory condition, many times it isn’t. Your coughing and hacking could be caused by the overall sickness your body is attempting to thwart.

Additionally, there are many viruses out there that can cause a dry cough. Tuberculosis is a severe lung condition that can kill you. It’s not as common these days as before, but it’s still a concern in underdeveloped countries. Lastly, you can have idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.

Final Thoughts on Knowing When a Dry Cough Might Point to Trouble

When you have a chronic and unproductive cough, it can worry when it lingers for more than a couple of weeks. A pulmonologist should be consulted for any such occurrences, especially if you smoke cigarettes or have previously. The common cold almost always produces mucus and phlegm, but when the cough is dry, it’s a whole different ballgame.

10 Toilet Hygiene Tips Nobody Told You About

March 7, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Did you know it takes approximately twelve seconds to sit on the toilets and pass the stool from your bowels?

Live Science did a study on toilet habits, and they found that the average person passed about six pounds of stool in a week, which equates to a whopping 320 pounds a year. It’s easy to see that you spend much of your life in the bathroom as it’s part of your bodily processes, but do you really need to spend so much time there?

The American and British folks spend more time than most on the loo. A study from UK Active showed that, on average, these individuals spend about three hours a week in their bathroom. What’s shocking is that the recommended time limit is no more than fifteen minutes daily.

The goal is to get in and out of the bathroom quickly. However, many people have made this an area to meditate, relax, read a book, and play a video game. While these little helpers might work when you toilet-train a child, it can waste time for adults. This is especially true considering all the germs and bacteria lingering in this area.

Toilet Hygiene You Should Know

As a parent, you teach your children to wipe correctly, wash their hands appropriately, and dry them off on a clean towel. However, there are many more things that you should be teaching them. There are some things that you need to know too. Here are some basic hygiene things you should learn for one of the most used rooms in the home.

1. Don’t Take Your Cell Phone in The Restroom

Okay, everybody takes their cell phone in the bathroom to catch up on emails and text friends. You don’t realize how you’re spreading bacteria all over your phone, which you will also put close to your mouth and on the table while you eat.

You talk and text while taking care of business. Then you put the phone down to take care of the paperwork. Before you wash your hands because it’s on the other side of the room, you pick up the phone again.

All the bacteria from your hands and the “paperwork” have now been transferred to your phone. Not only are your hands loaded with germs, but bacteria are on every surface in that room. A study conducted by Med League looked at what kind of germs was on the phones used in the bathroom.

Shockingly, they found MRSA, which can be a deadly staph infection. Just don’t take your phone in the bathroom, whatever you do. It’s just not safe unless you’re going to clean it thoroughly afterward.

2. The Toilet Plume Is Toxic

The chances are that you have never heard the term toilet plume, but you know what this nastiness is all about. When you flush the commode, it sprays a bit due to the water’s force needed to flush the contents. According to Self, when you flush, it sprays the particles into the air roughly six feet from the commode, which means no surfaces are safe.

Have you ever seen people have towel racks above their loo? How clear are those towels they’re drying their faces with every day? Some experts have labeled this occurrence “poop confetti” as your toilet has a little party with each use.

The key is always to put the lid down and ensure you “flush and rush.” Since fecal matter carries some deadly toxins, you don’t want it settling on surfaces and permeating your breathing space any more than it already did.

3. You Should Deep Clean Your Commode Regularly

The Today Show once made a segment on the porcelain throne and health habits. According to experts, your toilet should be cleaned thoroughly at least once weekly. It would help if you got down around the base, under the lid, and in the bowl.

Also, cleaning brushes are a harbor for bacteria and are plain disgusting. The newer clean and toss systems are better as they reduce germs. Pumice stones are the best at removing tough stains, especially if you have hard water that turns your throne orange from iron.

If you don’t clean this frequently used location often, you’re just asking for trouble.

4. Don’t Keep Toothbrushes on the Counter

So many cute toothbrush holders allow you to keep all your brushes right there in sight. However, remember the plume that sprays from your throne? Well, that overspray gets all over your toothbrushes too.

So, each time you brush your teeth, you’re taking a chance of putting harmful bacteria into your mouth. Can you think of anything more disgusting? Keep those toothbrushes in a medicine cabinet or drawer. Oh, and with all the sicknesses going around, make sure you put one of those travel caps on it, too, so it doesn’t mingle saliva with someone else’s in the home.

Plus, it would help if you changed out those toothbrushes periodically. So change them out every three or four months or immediately following a sickness.

5. The Toilet Seat Is A Petri Dish for Infection

You know you should clean your commode once a week, but the seat might need to be cleaned more than once in seven days. The place you sit is bound to have more germs than many other surfaces, as it’s up close and personal to the action. How Stuff Works referenced a study by ABC News.

They found that the average commode seat in America has 50 bacteria per square inch. So, what kind of bacteria is in this tiny space anyway? You may be horrified to find that E. coli, shigella bacteria, streptococcus, staphylococcus, and influenza all live on the seat. Most females won’t sit on a public restroom seat and will meticulously line each inch with paper to keep from touching any surfaces.

However, while the efforts are notable, it does little to protect you. The good news is that the article says it’s nearly impossible to contract a sexually transmitted disease from the seat.

These fifteen gross habits probably really annoy your significant other.

6. Don’t Touch the Knob

Even if it’s the knob on your bathroom door, try to use a towel or the tail of your shirt to open and close it. Remember that only five percent of people wash their hands properly, so chances are a breeding ground for germs. Use an antibacterial wipe to clean it often to get rid of any germs left by others.

7. Some People Pee on The Floor

If you were to take a black light and hold it by your commode, you might be surprised at what you see. Sorry, guys. But it seems that men have more difficulty getting things to the right spot.

If you have teenage boys or young ones potty training, then the amount of dried urine around your porcelain throne may shock you. Make sure you clean this area, too, when you’re scrubbing the loo.

8. You Must Open a Window or Turn on a Fan

Do you have a fan or window in your bathroom? There’s a reason for this ventilation as it’s required by law. Not only will the ventilation help to keep mold at bay from the shower, but it helps to rid toxins in the air from all those half-hour-long trips to the toilet.

9. Washing Your Hands Keeps You Healthy

According to a study done by the Cleveland Clinic, more than 33 percent of the population doesn’t wash their hands when they go to the restroom. The 67 percent that did wash their hands attempted to do things right, but only five percent used enough soap and scrubbed as they should. You must wash your hands each time you use the restroom, no matter if it’s just to urinate.

10. Keep Hand Towels Six Feet From The Throne

That disgusting plume that sprays from the commode can also get on your hand towels if they’re too close. So, you wash your hands and get rid of all the germs; then, you pick up the towel to dry off and pick the germs right back up. Also, consider that a towel that’s been used by someone who didn’t wash their hands properly is already full of bacteria.

Final Thoughts on Utilizing Correct Toilet Hygiene

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if you didn’t need to spend so much time in this room each week, especially if you have a germ phobia? However, since you’ll be in there, it might be clean. Remember to leave your cell phone out of here, wipe down the doorknob frequently, close the lid when you flush, clean the throne once a week, and wash your hands with plenty of soap.

If you do these few things, you can increase the sanitary nature of the bathroom. Teach your kids proper handwashing techniques so they can be in the 67 percent who at least attempt to wash the germs from their skin. Better yet, if you start training them now, they can be part of the elite five percent who washes their hands like a pro.

Clinical Psychologist Explains Why Nice Guys Finish Last

March 7, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Most women dream of falling “head over heels” in love with the perfect man. You envision a proverbial house with a white picket fence as well as children underfoot. Why is it that you don’t fall for the nice guys, but you would rather have someone who is either unavailable or the classic “bad boy?”

There are plenty of good men who are serious and able to have the relationship you want, yet you waste all your time on men that toy with your emotions. Is it the thrill of the chase getting someone who runs hot-and-cold to fall in love with you? Thankfully, psychology may have some of the answers that you need.

Don’t worry, we are not picking on only the men. This concept can apply to females, as well! But since the famous saying is about “nice guys,” we are rolling with it.

A Groundbreaking Study Has Shocking Results

According to Psychology Concepts, Dutton and Aron did a study to determine some of the rationales behind the lady’s choice back in 1974. For this evaluation, they needed women to stand on two different bridges. Each lady asked a random guy to come across the bridge to meet her and tell her a story of their life.

To make things interesting, the first bridge was a traditional overpass that wasn’t daunting to cross. The waters below were calm, and potential suitors could see the situation was safe. However, the second bridge was an entirely different situation, much like the risks associated with engaging with best non gamstop casinos.

Bridge number two was tricky, as there were rapid waves and rocks beneath that would challenge the guy’s nerves, similar to the unpredictable nature of these offshore gambling sites. To fall from this suspended structure would cost them their lives, as it was 230 feet in the air. For this study, they deemed the one structure safe, and the other one was scary, just as the risks vary between regulated and non-regulated gambling platforms.

What happened next was astounding. The men who had no problem taking on the scarier bridge told the ladies different stories than those who played it safe. These men weren’t afraid to include erotic descriptions in their tales.

Additionally, the women gave the men their phone numbers once they were done, and the men who crossed the dangerous bridge called back. It baffled researchers because the men who took the most significant risks seemed to be more interested in the women.

Now, mind you, it was the same woman who stood on the scary bridge that also stood on the safe one. Why did the suitor find the female more attractive in a dangerous situation more so than a safe one? The conclusion was groundbreaking for relationships.

When crossing the overpass with more significant risks, any man would feel symptoms of anxiety or arousal. Faced with this situation, they would experience things like an accelerated heartbeat as well as profuse sweating. The experience was stimulating, and thus it gave them a different attraction to the lady.

Relationships of Today, According to Dr. Chloe Carmichael

The study was conducted back in 1974, but Dr. Chloe Carmichael finds that she still sees this phenomenon today. As a clinical psychologist in Manhattan, her private practice deals with stress management, relationships, and building self-esteem.

Dr. Carmichael is a graduate of Long Island University, and she holds a doctorate in psychology. She is well known and is on the advisory board for the famous publications known as Women’s Health Magazine. One of her astounding articles was on the ten rules for dating.

One of the common issues she deals with in her female clients is that they often feel attracted to emotionally unavailable or unpredictable men. The nice guys usually get a bad rap as their stability and strait-laced nature aren’t as appealing. Is part of the chemistry these ladies feel brought on by their arousal more than real attraction?

The study from 1974 seems to prove that arousal is more stimulating than chemistry. To help correct this matter, Dr. Carmichael suggests that ladies create a list of what they want in a partner. This is especially helpful before you hit the dating scene.

Defining What You Want and What Annoys You

The first step in the process is to make a list of behaviors that you consider undesirable. These should be habits and actions that annoy or irritate you. Regrettably, this concern or irritation might be misconstrued as attractiveness for the guy who is triggering the frustration.

By making this list, it will help you to identify the things that drive you crazy. Your list should include items like:

Chronic lateness
Failing to make clear plans
Being emotionally unavailable
Failure to commit
Canceling dates at the last minute
Not answering phone calls or text promptly
Being vague about family
Not sharing previous relationships
Dishonesty

Keep in mind that life happens. It would help if you never judged someone based on 1-2 issues. Things can happen in the blink of an eye that changes everything, so some leniency should be made given the circumstances. However, these are not behaviors that a lady would typically find in nice guys.

Instead, while the bad boy may be more appealing, these little habits can break a relationship. Attraction only goes so far; then, you need substance or glue to hold the relationship together.

Desirable Behaviors in a Relationship

The second list should be the safe behaviors that you enjoy and welcome in a relationship. Nice guys aren’t just sappy and boring, but they will certainly do these things:

Always be on time
Bring flowers or candy
Call frequently
Buy gifts “just because”
Make time for you
Ensures you are picked up and home safely
Lets you know that he is emotionally available
Tells you how into you he is
Is nervous about handholding and kissing (at first)
Acts like you’re the greatest thing in the world

Playing Games with Love

Consider slot machines at your favorite casino. Relationships can be much like the odds of these games. The casino has the power to set the odds to give just enough winnings to keep the player enticed.

By giving you a few coins here or there, you will keep chasing the rewards. Your relationships with the bad boy are similar. They give you just enough attention that you keep chasing them, even if it means you won’t ever win the grand prize.

On the other hand, Nice guys would have given you everything you ever wanted, including the white picket fence. Yet, throughout history, women typically find themselves attracted to the one who is more excitement-provoking than stable.

Changing Your Point of View

Once you have both lists completed, it’s time to change your mindset. The list of dangerous behaviors equates to a more undesirable man. They may play “hard to get” or be emotionally unavailable.

In most instances, these men have troubles from their past that are interfering with their connections. For example, a fear of committing may come from watching a parent go through many turbulent relationships. They don’t want the same things to happen to them, so they keep everyone at arm’s length.

Another common scenario is that the person has suffered from trauma as a child and has unresolved issues. The problem is that they will bring all this emotional baggage into a relationship. If a guy is a rebel, you can almost bet there is a reason behind these behaviors.

The goal is to get yourself to the point where you can look at the man and see the irritations and not misplace it for attraction.

Learning to Love Nice Guys

Since you’re working on changing your behaviors towards the bad boys, you also need to work on the good guys’ viewpoints. Here are some ways that you can see the emotionally available men as more exciting:

Spice up your dates – Do something a little more risky or even scarier to feel that rush with this guy. Why not try a haunted house or a horror movie?
Use fantasies to spice things up – Many couples role-play or use fantasy to spice up their romantic life. Why not try something naughty or even forbidden? The goal here is to go on a date and get your heart racing rather than being bored. Perhaps you can be the one to make a few advances and see how the nice guy responds.
•Start planning your forever – Few things are exciting to a woman at a wedding, especially if this is her first time. If you need a thrilling experience, you can become engaged with the one who you know will be by your side for the long haul. Your interest in the unavailable will diminish as you make future plans.

Final Thoughts on Nice Guys and Why They Finish Last

The old saying states that “Nice guys finish last.” However, you have the power to change your perception. Dr. Chloe Carmichael suggests looking at men through the “safe” and “scary” perimeters. Once you learn to change your perceptions of arousal, it will change how you view these two types of men.

Dr. Carmichael states that she has seen many of her clients use this list method to retrain their brains to think of men differently. Thankfully, it proves to be a successful method that helps ladies make better choices regarding whom they give their heart to.

13 Things That Happen When You Sit with Crossed Legs (Most People Don’t Realize)

March 7, 2021 by Power of Positivity

It seems only natural to have crossed legs while you’re sitting. It makes you feel more comfortable, and it seems like the perfect position to keep your legs in motion. How many times, while your legs are crossed, do you swing the top one back and forth?

What would you think if you learned that sitting with crossed legs is bad for you? Would you be surprised to find that your comfortable sitting position is doing damage to your body? While many rumors are floating around about this position, there’s also scientific proof that shows it’s not healthy to sit in this manner.

Sitting With Crossed Legs Has Surprising Consequences

While sitting with your legs crossed won’t kill you, it can certainly cause you to have some issues within your body. Here are the most surprising consequences of sitting this way.

1. Posture Is Affected

Next time you cross your legs, observe your posture. Did you notice that you automatically slump as soon as your leg goes over the top of the other one? It’s only normal to develop a more relaxed position.

If you sit in an inappropriate posture for long periods, it can cause your body great stress, and it can even affect your digestive system. If you must sit this way, remember to keep your back straight and no slouching.

2. Increased Chances of Varicose Veins

Varicose veins are pronounced veins that bulge, and you can observe them on the outside of the skin. It’s caused when veins become twisted or enlarged. They are sometimes called spider veins because they look like a blue webbing near the skin’s surface.

Having these bulging veins is more of a cosmetic issue than anything else. However, they can cause throbbing and pain when walking as they increase in size. Additionally, those who have these spider veins are at a higher risk of developing blood clots in the region, according to Stop The Clot.

3. Hip and Back Pain

Your posture is affected when you sit this way, but this incorrect stance can cause both your hip and back. As you turn to find a comfortable position, you’re at an increased risk for twisting nerves and vertebrae. If you’ve ever experienced sciatica, then you know it’s not for the faint of heart.

4. Raises Your Blood Pressure

Your blood pressure is directly affected when you sit with crossed legs. Have you ever heard that you should never cross your legs while you’re having your blood pressure checked? The reason is that you constrict blood vessels, and it causes your heart to pump faster.

The National Institute of Health referenced a study that found people who sit this way have elevated blood pressure. The good news is that your blood pressure returns to your normal range once you uncross your legs. It’s recommended that you get up every 15-20 minutes and walk around to help keep your BP under control.

5. Pressure on Your Peroneal Nerve

Your body is an intriguing network of nerves and vessels. Behind your knee is the peroneal nerve that helps supply the feelings to your legs and feet. When you sit crossed legs, you’re crushing this nerve.

Did you ever wonder why your feet or toes go numb when you’re sitting in this fashion? Thankfully, there is no permanent nerve damage caused by this position, but it can give you that uncomfortable “pins and needles” feeling.

6. Sperm Production

While it’s believed that this is a common sitting position for the ladies, guys also like to sit with crossed legs. The problem with this position for guys is that it can cause the private area to be pinched. Sperm production relies on everything being free-flowing, which is why doctors recommend boxers for those trying to conceive.

The best way for a guy to sit is with his feet flat on the ground, and he should always keep his shoulders back. If you want to have a baby, it’s the only position that won’t inhibit your little soldiers’ production.

7. Leg Swelling

If you sit for long periods with your legs crossed, you might experience ankle swelling or leg cramps. This is especially noted to occur in pregnant women.

The pressure from sitting in this manner causes fluid to pool in the legs. Thankfully, you can alleviate the symptoms by sitting with your feet flat elevated on a stool.

8. Harms the Spine

It’s not uncommon to feel pain in the lumbar spine area if you sit with your legs crossed for long periods. If you’re already prone to back problems, then this is not the right position for you. When you have a bad habit of swinging one leg over the other, it may be best to try some back pain exercises to alleviate the strain.

9. Breathing Difficulties

When you sit with crossed legs, you’re pinching your stomach slightly. Did you know that this can cause you breathing issues? Now, please don’t fret, thinking that it’s going to make you feel like you’re having an asthma attack, but it can have a small effect.

If you already have a compromised breathing system, then the last thing you want to do is cause yourself any more significant issues.

10. Scoliosis Spine

Have you ever heard of scoliosis? This curvature of the spine is quite dangerous as it causes the spinal column to take on an “S” shaped appearance. When you sit in this elevated position for an extended period, it can cause you significant spine issues, which results in pain and possible surgery.

11. Inability to Focus

If you’re sitting at a meeting or in a seminar where your focus tends to be all over the board anyway, the last thing you want to do is sit with your legs crossed. Due to the strain, this position puts on the neck, back, legs, and feet, it’s bound to affect your concentration levels.

12. Imbalanced Pelvic Area

Would you have ever thought that sitting with your legs crossed could give you a pelvic imbalance? When you continuously sit in this slouching position, it can cause the inner thigh to get shorter over time.

After years of sitting in this manner, you may notice that you have joints moving out on you as your outer thigh muscle elongates. This can be a painful situation that can cause issues when you walk.

13. Yeast Infections

While it may seem bizarre to think your sitting position can contribute to yeast production, if it can inhibit sperm counts, it can also affect your PH in the vaginal area. When a woman sits with her legs crossed for long periods, she is blocking necessary oxygen from reaching the area.

The private areas need oxygen to breathe and to keep bacteria from harboring. Did you know that some gynecologists believe a woman should avoid wearing underwear for this reason? So to keep things fresh and bacteria-free, don’t cross your legs.

Solutions to This Sitting Position

You’ve, no doubt, been sitting this way since you were little. So, the chances of you changing your seating position now are slim. If you must sit with your legs crossed, then there are some things you can do to minimize the effects it has on your body. Here are some ways to combat health problem and bodily pains from this popular sitting style:

• Set A Time Limit

Don’t allow yourself to sit for hours on end with crossed legs. Rather, make sure you get up and walk every 15-30 minutes. It’s important to get the blood flowing again and shake lose any “pins and needles” sensations you feel from pinched nerves. You will notice a remarkable difference when you don’t sit stagnate for long periods.

• Position the Chair Properly

One of the most affected areas by this sitting position is your back. You can help give your back the support it needs by adjusting your chair a bit. Did you know that many people sit in this position because they try to relieve the pain they’re having in this region?

All you need is a bit more support so that you won’t feel any pangs in your lower back.

• Avoid Restrictive Clothing

It sounds shocking, but your clothing can directly affect the blood flow to areas of your body. If you wear tight and restrictive attire, it can cause an increased risk of varicose veins.

While compression garments are suitable for biking, they’re not the best choice while sitting. Try to wear something that allows your blood to flow freely without being restricting.

Final Thoughts on Sitting Crossed Legs

It seems so effortless to throw one leg across the other while in the seated position, but few know the damage this popular stance causes. It’s essential to learn how poor posture and slouching can be so damaging for the body. While crossed legs may seem comfortable, the health risks are a bit scary in the long run.

5 Things That Prove Simplicity in Life Increases Happiness

March 7, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Simple living is a popular trend that’s hard to apply to real life. You may wonder how you can know that simplicity makes life happier. Here are five things that prove that simplicity in life does make you feel happier.

What is simplicity?

Simplicity is a lifestyle that strips away the non-essentials of your life. It removes or alters those things that cause you to feel stretched to the limit. A simple life allows you to focus on what’s important, like people, rather than projects. Simplicity says “no” to social pressures that emphasize how you should live according to the current popular trends. Of course, no one can suddenly lead a simple life. It takes time and conscious choices every day. It’s worth the journey. You won’t regret living a simpler life.

5 Things that prove that simplicity increases your happiness

Here are five excellent reasons to embrace the simpler things in life.

1 – Simplicity reduces your stress

Being overly busy and distracted takes the joy out of life. It makes you feel stressed and anxious. When you’re stressed, you may feel things like

Fear
Sadness
Frustration
Irritability
Pressure
Anger

You can’t maintain your life at this hectic pace without some repercussions. Studies show that long-term stress leads to health problems such as

Digestive problems
Headaches
Sleep problems
Asthma
Mental illness
Anxiety disorders

Choosing simplicity in your life helps you decide when to commit and when to say no to commitment. Your schedule doesn’t control you. You manage your schedule. Reducing stress also means taking care of your body and your mind. You can do this by adding these things into your life, such as:

Eating a healthy diet.
Exercising
Yoga or mindfulness to relieve stress
Finding hobbies
Socializing to improve your mental well-being

Lowering your stress means you’ll feel happier and less anxious.

2 – Simplicity helps you feel grateful

Simplicity helps you look for the good in your life. It allows you to step back and be thankful even when everything isn’t perfect. Gratitude is strongly linked to happiness, according to a Harvard Medical School study. They found that gratitude helps people feel more positive, cherish good experiences, and deal better with adversity they encounter.

Gratitude is a Latin word that means “grace or gracious.” When you’re living life only with gratitude in your heart, you’ll feel grateful for the things you receive rather than assuming you are entitled. Entitled people aren’t happy people. They are demanding and fearful they’ll get overlooked. When you’re grateful, you’re able to connect to what is important to you, like family and friends. You’ll look upward and outward to the world around you. You’ll sense you’re part of something bigger than yourself.

3 – Simplicity helps you not to compare yourself

It’s easy to fall into the comparison trap. When you look to others to tell you how to dress, what your home should look like, or what your kids should be like, you’ll feel anxious all the time. You will feel pressure to keep a pulse on what’s trending. Studies show that comparison is associated with depression and anxiety. When you live a life of simplicity, you have a revival of the soul, so to speak. You know what’s essential and what isn’t. You focus on things that make you happy rather than on what your favorite blogger, celebrities, or even your neighbors say should make you happy. Break free of the lies of comparison. You’re good the way you are.

4 – Simplicity helps you feel content and happy

Contentment is defined as a satisfying calm. It gives you a strong sense of freedom and warmheartedness. When you’re content, you feel satisfied with who you are and your situation in life. It doesn’t mean you’re not hard-working or interested in improving your life. But content people aren’t driven in an unhealthy way but do what they need to do peacefully. When you’re satisfied, you don’t care if what you’re doing is trendy or what society says you should do. You’re content and happy.

5 – Simplicity helps you enjoy small things

When you choose to live a simplistic lifestyle, you’ll enjoy life’s little moments in a completely new way. You want your family and friends because of who they are, not because of what they can do for you. You’ll feel free to enjoy a sunset or go for a walk in the rain because you want to savor each moment. Appreciating the small things in life slows down your life so that you’re looking for the little things that can bring you joy.

How can you live a simpler life?

Adding simplicity to your life is a lifelong struggle against the demands of life and culture. Life gets busy, and that’s okay. But if you feel driven and unhappy, then it may be time to live a simpler life. Here are some suggestions to help you.

1 – Slow down

Slowing down is easier than it sounds. Kids, work, errands, and other commitments fill your day to the brim. But you can choose to slow down, even amid a busy day. Perhaps you need to say “No” to that urge to join another committee at your kids’ school. Or maybe it would be best if you said “Yes” to a walk in the park instead of sitting at your desk at lunch. Try to make little daily choices towards a simpler life. Other suggestions include

Go for a walk with your family every evening after dinner.
Read a book to your kids every evening. Choose a classic book that the entire family can enjoy.
Take that painting class you’ve been dreaming about for years.
Soak in the bubble bath instead of checking the latest news.

2 – Find ways to declutter

When you hear about simplicity, you’ve probably heard about decluttering your life. One study found that when you hoard things, you will be prone to problems with your work, your health, and feelings of well-being. If you find it hard to let go of things, it could eventually lead to hoarding. Here are a few tips on how to declutter your life.

How many clothes do you need?

Declutter your clothes every six months. Ask yourself if you wore an item of clothing in the last six months or most recent season. If not, it may be time to get rid of it, or at least shelve it. Set it aside, up high on a shelf. If you go for another six months and never think of it, it’s time to get rid of this clothing item. Donate it or sell it. If it’s in poor shape, throw it out. Don’t buy a new item of clothing unless you get rid of one. Look at your shoes. Holding on to old shoes for sentimental reasons or because you think you may wear them someday is never a good reason to keep them.

House

Declutter your house every spring. It’s a great time to evaluate whether you’ve used an item at all in the past year. If not, donate it or if it’s in bad shape, recycle or throw it out.

Simplicity is better for children, too!

Go through your kid’s toys every few months removing the broken ones. As your kids get older, they’ll lose interest in some toys. Donate these or throw them out if they’re broken. If your kids are old enough to understand, they may want to help you. It will teach them how to declutter their world.

3 – Turn off your smartphone, computer, or tablet

Breaking free from technology regularly has been found to add simplicity to your life. Being “on” all the time can lead to anxiety and stress. When you turn off your phone to read a book or play a game with your partner, you’re making a conscious choice to simplify your life.

4 – Volunteer

Helping others adds simplicity to your life. When you help someone else, you’ll find happiness and a sense of contributing to the world around you. There are so many organizations and charities that need you. You may have skills to help someone learn to speak English or read. Research your local area for places to volunteer. Here are just a few ideas on where you can volunteer.

Elementary schools are always looking for mentors or tutors.
Libraries
Parks
Animal shelters
Food banks or soup kitchens
Homeless shelters
Disaster relief
Exchange students
Knitting blankets for permie babies at the hospital.

5 – Get outside

Spending time outside improves your sense of well-being and reduces your anxiety and depression. Try to find ways to get outside every day, whether it’s walking your dog, digging in your garden, or just walking around your neighborhood. Having regular exposure to the sun is a natural way to get vitamin D. There’s a link between low vitamin D and depression. It’s vital for your brain’s good health and your feelings of happiness. Get outside in nature every day for at least 20 minutes to get the most benefits.

Final thoughts on living a life of simplicity

Simplicity in life can make a difference in how you feel and the amount of happiness you have in life. It’s worth pursuing a simpler lifestyle. It can bring a revival to your heart, mind, and soul, which ultimately will help you enjoy life more and feel happier. Why not try some of these suggestions to live a simpler life?

Man Loses Over 200 Pounds to Beat Diabetes and Save His Life

March 7, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

One man went on an incredible journey to beat diabetes and take control of his life. By working out and eating healthier, he lost a whopping 200 pounds. Mitch Fuhlman wanted a better life for himself and his kids, so he put himself to the ultimate test. He shows us that if you put your mind over matter, you can accomplish anything.

“I started in 2018; my health was severely declining,” he said. “I was diagnosed with diabetes. My doctor told me I needed weight loss surgery, or I was going to die, and it lit a fire under me. That’s what started my journey.”

Mitch’s highest recorded weight was 393, and at that time, he had many health problems. He says he had been overweight or obese since childhood, so reversing his conditions wouldn’t happen overnight. However, he knew he had to give it all he had for his future and family.

“How hard was it at the beginning? Very hard! Very hard to stay motivated, very hard to be brave and walk into a gym.”

Despite the struggles he faced, Mitch kept at it, knowing that all the hard work would pay off. He also knew that his life depended on the efforts he put in at the gym. Luckily, it didn’t take him long to see results.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mitch (@one_sweaty_mitch)

“You see results pretty quickly when you stay consistent. Weight started falling off pretty fast, and that helps keep the motivation high,” he said. “Eventually, those numbers even out, and you’ve just got to keep doing what you’re doing.”

So, how did he keep up the grueling routine when the scale wasn’t moving? He said he remembered his “why” to stay dedicated to the journey. Also, surrounding himself with like-minded people or those who needed advice about fitness kept his motivation up.

The best things that came from Mitch’s journey to beat diabetes and save his life

He says that looking better and feeling more confident were obvious changes he noticed on his journey. Most importantly, though, knowing that he added years to his life made it all worth it.

“I went from a class of being morbid to anything is possible now, and I love that.”

Along with improving his own life, Mitch also made a positive impact on his children. His influence and example will hopefully lead them to make healthy choices for themselves in the future.

“Also, I have young children, and them getting to see fitness and health being an important part of the process of life is amazing.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mitch (@one_sweaty_mitch)

Mitch says that although it takes incredible dedication and willpower to stick with the process, he truly enjoys it. It gave him another chance at life and an opportunity to teach his kids an important lesson. He still faces obstacles but feels more capable of overcoming them now that he knows his own strength.

“I was in my mid-thirties. I lived 30 something years hating myself, and not every day is easy still, but I’m going to tell you this – there’s a different level of hard. What I do is intense, and it’s hard, but you have to choose your hard. I’d do this all over again, any day – it’s definitely the right choice.”

Mitch wants others out there who struggle with self-image or motivation to know that they have options. Life is all about choices, and doing the right thing isn’t always easy. However, it could give you a life better than you ever imagined and help you realize your inner power.

“You’re worth it, and you deserve the effort. It’s never too late to change,” Mitch says.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Mitch (@one_sweaty_mitch)

Statistics on diabetes

According to the American Diabetes Association, diabetes was the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. in 2017. Many of these deaths could’ve been prevented by making lifestyle changes or adjusting medications. Unfortunately, diabetes diagnoses seem only to be increasing with each passing year.

Prevalence: In 2018, 34.2 million Americans, or 10.5% of the population, had diabetes.
Nearly 1.6 million Americans have type 1 diabetes, including about 187,000 children and adolescents.
Undiagnosed: Of the 34.2 million adults with diabetes, 26.8 million were diagnosed, and 7.3 million were undiagnosed.
New cases: 1.5 million Americans are diagnosed with diabetes every year.
Prediabetes: In 2015, 88 million Americans age 18 and older had prediabetes. This means they had higher than normal blood sugar, and without making changes, will likely develop diabetes.

Other ways to beat diabetes

Fortunately, most people (unless you have type 1 diabetes) can reverse this condition naturally. While they may still need medication, certain lifestyle changes can reduce symptoms of diabetes.

Here are a few things to keep in mind to beat diabetes:

Consume healthy foods low in sugar. To maintain healthy blood sugar levels, you’ll want to eat mostly whole foods. Eat plenty of fiber, found in leafy greens and fruits like blackberries, apples, and pears. Beans and whole grains also have a lot of fiber. This helps keep you full and will aid in keeping your blood sugar balanced.
Keep your stress low. High cortisol levels can disrupt blood sugar and make it more difficult for your body to regulate insulin. When you’re stressed, you also may be more likely to reach for sugary treats. Practice mindfulness or meditation to keep your blood sugar at healthy levels.
Drink plenty of water. Water helps flush out excess sugar from your kidneys, so this is essential if you want to beat diabetes.

Final thoughts: one man lost over 200 pounds to beat diabetes and regain his health

Mitch Fuhlman knew he had a huge mountain to climb, but didn’t let that deter him. He stayed consistent, meeting his weight loss goals and reversing his diabetes in the process. He hopes his story will motivate others to improve their health and start feeling better.

It may seem difficult to beat diabetes on your own, but Mitch proves that it can be done. If you’d like to see another testimony about reversing diabetes naturally, read this woman’s incredible story.

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

How many clothes do you need?

House

Simplicity is better for children, too!

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!