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10 Benefits of Honesty in a Relationship

January 7, 2021 by Power of Positivity

What virtues do you seek in a potential mate? You’ll probably say kindness, loyalty, good humor, empathy, and generosity. Above all, you expect honesty in any partner you choose.

Have you ever been with someone who lied whenever their mouth was open? Perhaps you discovered their deceit long into your relationship. If you can’t believe that your partner is truthful with you, who can you believe?

Relationships should start by being honest. If you and your significant other will stay together, you both need positive bias and accuracy. Being honest with each other can increase your optimism that the relationship will last.

Commission Versus Omission

Did you know that you can be truthful while being deceitful simultaneously? If you deliberately tell a lie, you commit a dishonest act. However, concealing information and not telling the truth is just as dishonest. In a healthy relationship, there should be no secrets between you and your significant other.

Of course, this does not include harmless secrets like a surprise birthday party or a special gift. However, it would help if you never concealed secrets dealing with unfaithfulness or other devastating information. Remember that half-truths can be more dangerous in a relationship than a whole lie.

10 Benefits of Honesty in a Relationship

You have many benefits to being honest with each other in your partnership. Here are the most common reasons why trust is so important.

1. Being Honest Builds Trust

If there’s no trust in your relationship, you have nothing. When you and your mate are honest with each other, you need not second guess one another. Do you feel confident nothing is going on when they call and tell you they are working late at the office?

What if you go on a business trip with a coworker? Would your mate trust that your trip is legitimate? On the flip side, would you trust that your person would stay true to you while you are out of town? If the answers to these questions are indecisive, your relationship could have problems.

Trust issues can destroy your relationship. You need to know that the person you’ve entrusted your heart will always be true to you. Also, it would help if you built trust with them. An honest relationship frees you from suspicion, jealousy, and constant surmising.

2. You May Have Less Stress

How would you feel if you and your partner were not being honest with each other? The stress of continually covering your tracks can be devastating. You probably will not be in a loving mood when you’re both stressed to the max.

Did you know that stress can negatively affect your physical and mental health? An article published by the National Institute of Mental Health warns that chronic stress may lead to heart issues, hypertension, diabetes, stroke, and certain cancers. It may also contribute to premature death.

Sincere people also learn how to de-stress with their partners. When was the last time you took a long weekend together to relax? Also, consider massages and healthy romantic life as ways of lowering your stress levels.

3. Truthfulness May Improve Your Health

Since dishonesty in a relationship can harm your health, it stands to reason that being honest may improve it. Research published by the American Psychological Association found that people who tell the truth saw a significant health boost. They may have less stress, depression, and fewer physical complaints per the article.

Of course, honesty won’t boost your health if you and your partner don’t take care of yourselves. Being honest also includes the acknowledgment that you need to practice a healthier lifestyle. Proper diet, exercise, and a clear conscience can go a long way to keeping you and your partner healthier and happier.

4. Being Honest Can Build Your Confidence

Let’s face it, telling lies and hiding harmful secrets does little for your self-confidence. It may keep you in your mate’s good graces for a while, but you will feel miserable on the inside. When you don’t have inner peace and self-acceptance, it will eventually show on the outside.

Honest people often feel a boost of confidence when they know that they’ve nothing to hide. Your partner can trust you with their heart and life, and you have the confidence to accept them at their word. When you are truthful with yourself, it can help you be the person you want to be.

Others will see your self-confidence, and it may make them more confident in you. It’s especially the effect that you want for your significant other. You make mutual admiration and respect possible when you are genuine.

5. Being Truthful is Much Less Work

Being a liar requires a lot of energy. Dishonesty creates a snowball effect that takes constant maintenance. For example, you tell your partner a lie. Then you often must tell another lie to cover the first one, and the falsehoods snowball.

You must spend valuable time and effort keeping track of the lies so your secrets aren’t revealed. Conversely, telling the truth doesn’t take any effort or creative wording. You state the facts as they are and have nothing to hide.

The time and energy you and your partner save by being honest can be used for more positive activities.

Researchers reveal that trust outweighs love in successful relationships.

6. Honest People Attract Other Honest People

If you’ve studied the law of attraction, you understand that like calls unto like. Remember the old saying that “birds of a feather flock together?” So, if you are honest, you are more likely to attract other honest people’s attention.

It’s especially essential when you are looking for a committed relationship. Of course, the law of attraction is not always foolproof. At some point in your life, you’ve had to deal with toxic people, regardless of your honest personality.

However, most people treasure honesty and will choose to be with people with that virtue.

7. Genuineness Encourages Self-Reflection

You can’t be honest with anyone else until you are honest with yourself. As a genuine person, you are compelled to self-reflect and see who you are. If you don’t like what you see, maybe it’s time that you make some changes.

Honesty with yourself makes you want to be a better person, friend, and mate. Perhaps you need to adjust your attitude and long-held beliefs that no longer serve you. Working on yourself is a positive effort that your significant other will notice and appreciate.

8. Honesty Offers Freedom

When you lie to people, you are forging a chain of shame and guilt that imprisons you. Maintaining the ruse robs you of energy and freedom. The only way that you can be free is, to be honest.

Have you or your partner ever asked a friend to conceal a lie? Even though a true friend wouldn’t use it against you, it has created an indebtedness that will eat at your conscience. Plus, you lose a lot of credence with your friend, who must keep the lie hidden.

Honesty breaks the chains, and you no longer have the burden of guilt. You have a free conscience, and you can rest at night knowing that you’ve been truthful. This freedom can ease tensions and stress in your relationship.

9. Your Partner Will Respect Your Opinion

Your significant other asks for your opinions often because they know you’ll be honest. Sometimes, it isn’t easy to be candid because you’re afraid of hurting their feelings. Your honest opinion may sting a little, but they will respect you in the long run.

For example, what do you say if your person asks if you like their outfit? They will respect you more if you say the color isn’t right for them than if you say whatever they want to hear. You needn’t be mean, just honest.

When you’re truthful about the small things, your lover knows they can trust you with the more significant situations. It’s all about stating kind but honest opinions every time. Having a respected view means everything in a relationship, personal or professional.

10. Honesty Creates a Positive Atmosphere

The atmosphere is bound to be stagnant and negative if you are in a shrouded relationship of lies and secrets. Maybe you notice that it’s easier to pick fights and stay angry at each other. Frequently, dishonesty breeds a toxic environment where a couple shifts the blame and is perpetually mistrustful.

However, genuine people tend to create a festive atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome and comfortable. The good news is that positivity is contagious and will attract more positive things in your life. You and your significant other will also feel more optimistic about your relationship.

Final Thoughts on the Benefits of Honesty in a Relationship

You owe it to your partner and yourself to be honest in your relationship. It’s the cornerstone that supports all other desired virtues. It is the only way you can love and accept each other for who you are.

10 Things Your Sleeping Position Reveals About Your Relationship

January 7, 2021 by Deborah Tayloe

What is your preferred sleeping position? Do you and your partner like to snuggle tight, or do you desire to have your blanket and space in the bed? Did you know that how you sleep says a lot about your relationship?

Psychologists have studied the various sleep patterns and their importance in a relationship, and it’s quite a shocking revelation. A study from the University of Hertfordshire in England shockingly found that 68 percent of the people who participated in the research preferred not to touch at all during their slumber.

Of those people who didn’t touch, 94 percent said their relationship was healthy. Could your resting position be a stance, or is there more to it? The article also referenced another study by the University of Chicago. It found that testosterone levels can drop too low when a man doesn’t get enough sleep.

While the studies referenced in this article point out that your sleep position doesn’t matter, other references beg to differ. According to Patti Wood, the author of Success Signals a Guide to Reading Body Language, your body language tells a great deal about your relationship. For instance, those who sleep back-to-back are still connected yet independent.

Ten Things Your Sleeping Position Says About Your Relationship

If you think your relationship is secure, what does your sleeping position determine? Here are the most common positions observed and what they mean for your partnership. Could there be trouble brewing under the covers?

1. Spooning = Protection

Spooning is the most popular sleeping pose, with both big and little spoons. The big spoon is the person that feels like the protector, and in many instances, it’s the man, but that’s not always the case. The little spoon is the one that needs protection.

This bedtime position shows that the little spoon might be vulnerable in the relationship and need to be safeguarded in life. The big spoon feels superior and acts as a protector over the small spoon. This intimate stance provides the couple with the skin-on-skin contact they both crave and the extra TLC and nurturing that the little spoon needs.

2. Back-to-Back = Closeness and Independence

If you fall asleep facing the opposite direction, your backs manage to touch. It’s called the back-to-back position. Your connection is usually at the spine, and your behind may or may not meet. If your bottoms do make contact, it’s called a moon landing, which is an ironic term.

Touching your backsides means that you both have a strong desire to stay connected romantically, but you’re still independent. You don’t need your spouse to define you as strong enough to live with or without them. Couples who prefer this sleeping position have found that they are amazingly comfortable with one another and can relax and just be themselves.

This couple loves each other but values being two separate people. If you and your spouse have recently had an argument and go to this position, there’s still a connection, no matter how hard things are.

3. Sweetheart Cradle = Trust and Teamwork

The sweetheart cradle is a very endearing position. When one partner rests their head on the other person’s chest, they hold each other close. It’s common for the couple to intertwine their legs as they nurture each other.

What stands out most about this position is that the couple is a team, and a superior level of trust exists between them. While snuggling in this position, they both feel romance and protection. Oddly enough, it’s found that new couples prefer to sleep this way, as well as those who have broken up and got back together.

4. Leg Hug = Strong Sexual Connection

Some people are more sexual beings than others, and the leg hug is one way to decipher. When legs and feet are touching, it shows that one person wants or needs more of a sexual or emotional connection with their partner. When legs are tangled, it shows that the two of you are interwoven together as one unit.

5. Both on Stomach = Fear and Anxiety in The Relationship

Not all sleeping positions are favorable. If a couple sleeps apart on their stomachs, it’s a sign of anxiety and fears in their relationship. When there is no touching, it can be an indication of a lack of trust.

If you find that the two of you seem to go to this position, then it’s time to reevaluate your relationship. Your body language speaks louder than words, so you need to talk about what’s happening.

Look at the importance of touch in your daily life.

6. No Contact, Back-to-Back = Strong Independence

So, most people will assume that no touching in bed is terrible, but it doesn’t have to be. If a couple can share the same space yet sleep apart, it’s a sign that they both have a strong independent nature. The connected yet self-sufficient lover usually connects back-to-back with no touching involved.

These partners are liberty lovers, as they are both so secure within themselves that they don’t need any extra security from one another. The real problem occurs if one person is sleeping on the edge of the bed, trying desperately to be separate. It’s a sign that they are disconnecting or that the mattress is too small.

7. Pet Barrier = Using Animals to Avoid Issues

Most pet lovers share their intimate space with their furry friends. While it’s not bad, it can cause issues with your spouse if you let them sleep in between you. Your pet will undoubtedly feel your love and devotion towards them, but your partner may feel lax.

It’s commonly a sign that you and your spouse are avoiding an issue in your relationship and using your pet as a buffer for the problem. It’s like the elephant in the room that no one is talking about.

If you must have your pets in your bed, make them sleep around you, not in between. There are newfangled beds made with separate additions for Fido. Plus, if it means your relationship’s health, you should consider letting them sleep with the children or in a cage at night.

Plus, a pet bed beside your bed isn’t a bad idea, either. Not every couple with pets in their bed uses them to bridge the divide, but it happens more often than you would think.

8. Front to Front = A Like-Minded Couple

The front-to-front sleeping position is a variation of being thoroughly intertwined, but you face one another this time. It’s also interesting that most couples keep their heads at the same level. There may or may not be any touching, as some like draping their arms across one another.

This sleeping stance is one of intimacy, and it shows that the two of you are very like-minded people. Plus, there’s a great mood in your relationship as you two enjoy spending time together.

9. The Shingles Position = Compassion and Trust

Both people are sleeping on their backs in this position, but one has their head resting on the other’s shoulder. This stance shows a superior level of camaraderie, and one person allows the other to take the role of the protector. When you sleep like this, it means that there is both compassion and trust in your union.

10. Intertwined = Can’t Get Enough of Each Other

When you and your partner are thoroughly intertwined, you love being close to each other. This is one of the most romantic sleeping positions around. This sleeping style is often observed among new couples, and it’s often used as a transient pose that leads up to or comes after a romantic encounter.

Younger crowds often observe this position, especially when they first start dating. There is so much love between you that you want to be as connected as possible. A couple would rarely continue this pose throughout their entire relationship, but if they do, it’s a sign that they are very reliant upon one another.

Final Thoughts on Sleeping Positions

Have you ever really taken a moment and considered how you and your partner sleep at night? Do you like to snuggle tight or prefer to have your side of the bed with your blanket? There are different opinions on whether these positions have any bearing on a relationship, and some psychologists are divided.

Still, it’s interesting to find your sleeping position on the list and see if it’s accurate for your relationship. Perhaps, you will learn something about you and your spouse you didn’t know, or maybe you will see something underlying that needs to be discussed. Could the way you sleep at night dictate your relationship’s strength, or is this just a useless babble? It’s up to you to decide.

Dentists Explain 10 Causes of Halitosis (And How to Fix It)

January 7, 2021 by Power of Positivity

There’s nothing worse than bad breath. Have you ever had such horrible halitosis that you can’t stand the smell of your own breath? Many conditions can cause your breath to smell foul, and there are ways to combat these issues.

Did you know that many people have extreme anxiety when it comes to their breath, especially if others have made comments about the odor? If it’s not caused by poor dental hygiene, then even if you brush and use every mouthwash on the market, it won’t make much difference. Some chew gum until their mouth aches, but still, they have horrible breath.

Chronic halitosis is not something to ignore. It’s the body’s way of telling you that something isn’t right. According to Medical News Today, it’s the third most common reason people visit a general dentist. The article also states that about 25 percent of the population deal with foul odors in their mouth. Sadly, most of the cases are from poor oral health.

Common Causes of Halitosis

You can brush your teeth three times a day and floss when needed. However, your breath may have a pungent odor. Here are the ten most common causes of halitosis.

1. Foods You Eat

If your diet is full of spicy foods and those containing onions and garlic, then it’s no wonder why your breath may be foul. Your diet certainly has a great deal to do with how your breath smells. If you eat Italian for lunch, then it’s understandable that the garlic content can affect your breath for the rest of the day.

If you have a date or a big meeting at work, you might want to skip the spicy curry. Keeping some breath mints in your pocket might help, but when there are garlic and onions in the mix, it’s hard to overcome.

2. Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a miserable feeling, and many things can cause this issue. Medication is undoubtedly a big problem, specifically antidepressants, water pills, and stimulants. The saliva glands may not produce the proper amount of saliva, which helps to wash the bacteria away.

Bacteria and a dry mouth can create an awful aroma. Try drinking a lot of water and sucking on a breath mint to help keep moisture in your mouth.

3. Tobacco

Cigarette and cigar smoke can give your mouth a horrible smell. Did you know that when you smoke, it leaves particles in your lungs and throat that can irritate it? According to Quit Smoking Forever, tobacco alone has 60 aromatic hydrocarbons in it that can cause halitosis.

Cigarettes alone smell terrible, but they also dry the saliva in your mouth, causing you to keep bacteria floating around. When the bacteria mixes with the toxins from the cigarettes, it can cause a quite intense mouth odor. If you don’t want your date to cringe when you want a kiss, then stop smoking.

4. Bad Dental Hygiene

How many times do you brush your teeth each day? According to the Mayo Clinic, you need to brush at least two times per day to have excellent oral health. It’s best to brush after every meal, if possible. These experts suggest that you use toothpaste with fluoride as well as mouthwash and floss, while if you need to visit your dentist for other reasons as dentistry there are great resources that explain you why at sites like https://www.dentaltown.com/blog/post/23725/how-modern-cosmetic-dentistry-is-transforming-patient-confidence.

Brushing your teeth is just one part of the process. If you don’t floss, tiny food particles become lodged in the gums’ edge and between the teeth. These food particles can rot and cause a smell.

If you don’t brush for at least two minutes each time, you won’t remove all the plaque and bacteria in your mouth. Finally, use a strong mouthwash to finish off your tooth-brushing session and kill any bacteria left behind.

Another part of good oral health is going to the dentist at least two times per year. Your dentist will make sure you have no cavities and see how good a job you’re doing at brushing. They can also identify if there are any issues, such as gum disease.

Some people are genetically predisposed to have dental problems. However, you can stay on top of these issues by seeing your dentist and practicing good dental hygiene at home.

5. Crash Diets

It seems rather odd to include crash diets in the list as a cause for bad breath. However, have you ever heard of anyone on the keto diet complaining about their breath? Sadly, the keto diet is one of the biggest culprits of bad breath.

When you’re eating a diet high in fat and protein, your body goes into a state of ketosis. Burning ketones in the body is a smelly business. Some say it’s a fruity odor, while others say it just plain stinks. If you’re plagued by bad breath on a diet, then you might need to scrape your tongue regularly or add some carbs to help combat this common problem.

6. Conditions of Mouth-Nose and Throat

Another reason you may be battling bad breath is issues with your mouth, nose, or throat. These work together so closely for respiration that it also affects the other two when one is affected. The common cold usually includes your nose and throat, so it usually presents as foul breath from your mouth.

Sinus conditions are another issue that can make your breath less than fresh. When you have a sinus or throat infection, your halitosis is often a tell-tale sign. Of course, any conditions in your mouth or tongue will show up in your breath.

If you have a throat or mouth infection that stinks up your mouth, consider using salt water rinses. Gargling salt water can not only help your symptoms, but it can also keep your mouth fresh and hydrated. Sucking on menthol cough drops can soothe a sore throat and make your breath smell minty clean too.

7. Diseases

Did you know that healthcare providers often check your breath for signs of an underlying condition? Many diseases like liver disease and cancer cause chemical imbalances in your body and let their presence be known with foul breath.

If you’ve been diagnosed with a disease and notice your breath is affected, talk to your healthcare specialist. Keep a supply of your favorite mints or chewing gum handy. You might also consider rinsing your mouth with a homemade herbal mouthwash.

8. Medication

Do you ever listen to those long, boring medication infomercials that interrupt your favorite television show? Dry mouth is a common side effect that you’ll hear on many of them. Of course, where there’s dry mouth, your breath can pay the price.

Some medications for chemotherapy or cardiac issues break down chemically in your body and can cause halitosis. Do you know the unpleasant smells that some vitamins and supplements have? When you take a lot of them, you may notice the same scent on your breath.

Talk to your healthcare provider about any medications that are causing unpleasant side effects like bad breath. Sometimes, drugs can be exchanged for another that won’t give you the same problems.

9. Foreign Bodies Lodged in The Nasal Cavities

Young children are notorious for sticking small things up their nose for curiosity’s sake. However, their inquisitive nature can create a health hazard that you can’t see until later. The infection will usually manifest as sinus problems, runny nose, and rank breath.

Small objects can not only be a choking hazard for children, but they can also pose a risk of being stuffed up the nose. Keep these objects well out of their reach. If you suspect that your child has a foreign object lodged in the nasal cavities, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

10. Stomach Issues

Your mouth is the first stop for food going into your digestive system. From your mouth, your esophagus is connected to your stomach. It stands to reason that any issues you have with your stomach would show up as bad breath.

People with acid reflux or chronic heartburn often complain of having stinky breath. When your stomach acids are regurgitated into your esophagus, it may also contain broken-down bacteria that has a terrible odor. You may also get sour burps, which also can overwhelm you with foul breath.

Consider following an eating plan that is less acidic, so you don’t have so much indigestion. Certain herbs like peppermint and ginger can also soothe an upset stomach. Plus, they can also freshen your breath.

Final Thoughts on Managing Your Halitosis

Living with bad breath is no fun. If you have a chronic condition, you must identify the cause of the issue and then try to fix it. Many things can be combated with avid brushing, flossing, and mouthwash. However, some problems are beyond your control.

If a medication is causing you such issues, then you should seek help. Additionally, if poor dental health is the cause of your halitosis, then talk to a dentist in San Francisco about ways to combat this problem. There’s no reason to be anxious about your bad breath, as there are things you can do to fix it.

15 Quotes About Positive Thinking to Brighten Your Day

January 5, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

Many quotes about positive thinking can help brighten your day. Even when it seems nothing can go right, these quotes can serve as a reminder that not everything is bad. There is good in each moment, you simply have to look for it.

Life doesn’t always go as planned and it isn’t always perfect. This is normal, and life is supposed to be this way, as you will learn from these quotes about positive thinking. There are always challenges and obstacles to overcome, but you can make the most of it.

When you can stay positive and work through your problems, life will be better than you ever imagined. You will be happier, more successful, and your well-being will highly benefit. While it isn’t always easy, being positive is a learned mindset and will become natural with time.

Fifteen Quotes About Positive Thinking

The next time you are struggling to be positive or if you need something to brighten your day, remember these quotes about positive thinking. They will help you through and remind you that you aren’t on your own and that everything will work out.

1. “Cultivate an optimistic mind, use your imagination, always consider alternatives, and dare to believe that you can make possible what others think is impossible.” – Rodolfo Costa

To stimulate positive thinking, you have to foster a positive mindset. Be creative and figure out new ways to get things done. When you stay positive and keep working to figure things out, you can achieve anything you want to.

2. “Whatever the mind of man can conceive and believe, it can achieve.” – Napoleon Hill

When things don’t work out the first time or seem to be taking too long, remember this quote. Even when things are hard, you can achieve them if you believe you can. Have faith in yourself and remind yourself that staying positive and working hard will get you there.

3. “The greatest discovery of all time is that a person can change his future by merely changing his attitude.” – Oprah Winfrey

Positivity is a mindset, and it is all about your attitude. When your future isn’t looking the way you had hoped, you can make the change. Keep a positive mindset and your future will be everything you dreamed of.

4. “Well, if it can be thought, it can be done, a problem can be overcome.” – E.A. Bucchianeri

If you can think it, you can do it. Don’t give up on any problem, because every problem can be overcome. Always remember that you can do anything you think of, and use it as a reminder to brighten your day.

5. “You must not lose faith in humanity. Humanity is an ocean; if a few drops of the ocean are dirty, the ocean does not become dirty.” – Mahatma Gandhi

When you encounter a few bad parts of humanity, don’t get discouraged. Remind yourself that few bad people don’t make all of humanity bad. As Gandhi explains, a few bad drops don’t make the whole thing dirty.

6. “A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort.” – Herm Albright

A little humor can help you be more positive when things aren’t going as planned. You will always encounter problems in life, but if you keep a positive mindset you will be okay. Plus, it will annoy those who aren’t as positive as you, giving you another bright moment to look back on.

7. “Don’t be pushed around by the fears in your mind. Be led by the dreams in your heart.” – Roy T. Bennett

Fears can cause a negative mindset and make you believe you can’t do great things. Don’t let this control your life by continually focusing on it.

Instead, focus on what is inside of your heart. Picture your dreams and all of the things you want to achieve instead of focusing on your dreams. This is what will get you far in life.

8. “You have to open up to the world and learn optimism…Contentment with the past, happiness with the present, and hope for the future. Learned optimism.” – Jennifer Crusie

Keep an open mind and stay positive all of the time. Be content with what has happened and the way that your life is going now. By being content and accepting things as they are, you will always be more optimistic.

When you can live this way and maintain this mindset, you can keep hope for the future. Since this type of thinking is all about your attitude, you have to teach yourself to be this way, as Crusie explains. After a while, it’ll become a habit, and it will be natural to live positively.

9. “Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.” – John Wooden

When you make the best of what you have, things will get even better. Things seem to work out when you stay positive and always look for the good in your situation. Remember this John Wooden quote the next time things don’t go your way, and it will all end up working out in the end.

10. “Appreciate every little beautiful moment in every day of your life. Give it a try, and you’ll see the world from another perspective.” – Thea Kristine May

Look for the good in all situations, and find the beauty in all the little moments. Try this out for a day, and you’ll see that your day quickly becomes brighter.

11. “Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine.” – Anthony J. D’Angelo

You can’t have a negative mindset if you are the one bringing the sunshine. Be positive anywhere you go and you’ll always be happy and content. It will help you make the most of any situation, making life easier and more enjoyable.

Plus, positivity is contagious so if you bring the sunshine, others will benefit, too. Before you know it, positivity will be spreading from person to person, making even negative situations positive.

12. “It’s a funny thing about life, once you begin to take note of the things you are grateful for, you begin to lose sight of the things that you lack.” – Germany Kent

When you are feeling down, make a note of all the things in your life that you are grateful for. When you do this, the good parts of life will be at the forefront of your mind, reminding you that life isn’t bad. Before you know it, you won’t be thinking of the things you don’t have anymore.

13. “Always end the day with a positive thought. No matter how hard things were, tomorrow is a fresh opportunity to make it better.” – Unknown

Even when things don’t go well one day, there is always a new day to try again. Remind yourself of this before you go to bed and you’ll wake up with a more positive mindset. You can always try again as long as you keep your faith and don’t give up.

14. “Life’s trials will test you, and shape you, but don’t let them change who you are.” – Aaron Lauritsen

Life will never be perfect, and things won’t always go as planned. While these challenges will shape you and make you stronger, you have to stay true to yourself. Don’t change who you are when you encounter problems, but let them build your character.

15. “Keep your face to the sunshine and you cannot see a shadow.” – Helen Keller

Don’t focus on negative situations in life. Instead, always look for the good. No matter how bad things seem, you can always find something to be grateful for, even if it’s small.

When you look for the small beauties in life and remember to turn your face to the sunshine, your day will always be bright. If you are struggling to think of things to be grateful for, look around, and find something beautiful to enjoy.

Final Thoughts on Quotes About Positive Thinking to Brighten Your Day

It can seem hard to stay positive all the time, but you can do it with the right mindset. These quotes about positive thinking will help brighten your day even when it seems like nothing can. They will remind you of all the good in your life and remind you to keep trying.

Even in the toughest situations, there is beauty and goodness. If you can find these things, you’ll be able to stay positive and spread positivity to those around you. You can change your life by changing your mindset, and you can even contribute to changing the world.

When you find yourself struggling to stay positive, remember these quotes about positive thinking. You’re not alone with the struggle, but you can form good habits to help you keep a positive mindset. Then, all things you want to achieve will be possible, and life will be incredibly joyful.

15 Quotes to Remember When You Feel Undeserving of Love

January 5, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

Everyone knows that life isn’t always perfect. When you are struggling or when things aren’t going right, you might even find yourself feeling undeserving of love. This feeling is tough to deal with, and it can be detrimental to your relationships.

When you feel this way, you must remember that you are deserving of love. Remind yourself that everyone has imperfections and makes mistakes, and everyone is different. Even still, you are incredibly worthy of love.

It can be hard to tell yourself these things, however. That is where these quotes to remember when you feel undeserving of love come in handy. They will remind you that you are incredibly deserving, no matter what is happening in your life at that time.

Quotes for When You Feel Undeserving of Love

These quotes will first let you know that you aren’t the only person who has ever felt this way. It is normal to feel this way sometimes, although that feeling is false. Most importantly, however, these quotes will serve as a reminder that you deserve the love you have always dreamed of.

1. “The only thing between you and big love is your belief in your worthiness of it.” – Kristin Lohr

If you are feeling undeserving of love, you are likely standing in your way of finding it. On the other hand, if you decide that you are worthy, you will be blessed with true love. It is all in your mindset and your beliefs of yourself.

2. “Having patience always gives you what you deserve.” – Fatma Alfalasi

Instead of feeling like you are undeserving of love because you haven’t found it yet, be patient. Remember that love will come along at just the right time. If you can wait until the right moment, you will receive the love that you truly do deserve.

3. “When things are challenging, remember you are not the feelings and emotions. They are just a reaction to the situation, so accept them and try to find the root source and ease that pain – The core essence of you is a beautiful, unique, authentic spirit, and you are worthy of everything in life.” – Nanette Mathews

You may feel bad sometimes, but that feeling doesn’t mean you are undeserving of love. Your reactions to challenges don’t determine your worth, so find a way to overcome and move forward. Remember that you are truly worthy and deserving of love.

4. “He who hides himself amongst the shadows deserves to live inside the dark shadows! Meet with the light to deserve the light!” – Mehmet Murat Ildan

You are only as deserving as you decide you are. When you decide that you are unworthy, that is how your life will turn out. When you turn to the light and realize that you are deserving, you will find the love you have dreamt of.

5. “You don’t have to earn or deserve love. You are love. Loving is never about how others treat you. It is always about how you are treating yourself.” – Rhonda Britten

As Britten explains, you don’t have to be deserving of love because you are love. If you treat yourself right and show yourself, love, you are getting all that you need. The rest will follow.

6. “You are worthy of good things, and you are a deserving and beautiful person.” – Bryant McGill

No matter how badly you are feeling, remember that you are worthy and deserving. You are a good person, and you deserve good things and love always. If you aren’t receiving the love you deserve from someone else, give it to yourself.

7. “You may not be perfect when measuring yourself by unattainable standards. But you are always perfectly lovable. Let go of this ideal of perfect. Accept yourself as you are. Allow yourself to love yourself as you are.” – Akiroq Brost

When you measure yourself by unreachable standards, you will always come up short. So, stop measuring yourself this way. Instead, remind yourself that you are deserving of love and accept yourself just as you are now.

You don’t have to change yourself to find love. Stop striving for perfection because no one is perfect.

8. “You’ll have moments when you feel like a lion and moments when you feel like a mouse. Just know that no matter how you feel, you still have a heartbeat and a soul worthy of love, so learn to roar even when you feel small, because you are more than the feelings you may have.” – T.B. LaBerge

Life changes, and so do your feelings. Bad things will happen as good things will, so you will feel differently based on what is going on in your life at that time. Through the good and the bad, you have to remember that you are deserving of love.

As you remind yourself of this, remember to stay strong and powerful even during the bad times. Don’t let your feelings during the bad times; determine the way you feel about yourself.

9. “You’re good enough as you are. You’re beautiful as you are! But equally, accept that it is natural for everyone to love and be loved. We don’t need to run from love; we need to run toward it.” – Lizzie Velásquez

Don’t ever feel like you have to change who you are. You are who you were meant to be, and you have to stay true to yourself no matter what. Even when things aren’t going great, remember to run towards love because you are incredibly deserving of it.

10. “Choose every day to forgive yourself. You are human, flawed, and most of all worthy of love.” – Alison Malee

Forgive yourself for your mistakes, and don’t let the negative feelings linger. Everyone makes mistakes sometimes, but you have to accept the mistakes and move on. This doesn’t mean you are undeserving of love. It simply means you are human.

11. “One remedy for the fear of not being loved is to remember how good it feels to love someone. If you’re feeling unloved and you want to feel better, go love someone, and see what happens.” – Dossie Easton

When you feel like you aren’t worthy of love, try loving someone else instead. This will remind you that you are worthy and will find love when the time is right.

12. “Be confused. It’s where you begin to learn new things. Be broken, it’s where you begin to heal. Be frustrated, it’s where you start to make more authentic decisions. Be sad because if we are brave enough, we can hear our heart’s wisdom through it. Be whatever you are right now. No more hiding. You are worthy, always.” – S.C. Lourie

Being confused, broken, frustrated, or sad is completely normal in life. Embrace it and accept it as you learn from each moment. Even though the hard times and negative emotions, you are worthy of love and deserve it always.

13. “The only way a society of diverse people can survive without tearing itself apart over differences in nature is by accepting that ALL people are different and that no single one of us is more or less deserving of decent treatment, compassion, legal and ethical equality, justice, life, or love than any other.” – Christina Engela

While everyone is different, as Engela explains, it doesn’t mean they are worthy of love. Instead, accept that everyone is different, including you. Even still, you are just as deserving as everyone else is for all of these great things in life.

14. “You’re imperfect, and you’re wired for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging.” – Brené Brown

As stated before, everyone is imperfect and will struggle sometimes. Even though the imperfections and struggles though, you are still worthy. As long as you remember this, you can rest assured that love will come your way.

15. “Remember you were born of love, you are love, it exists inside you, that’s where it begins. When you know this, you will have a happier life. ” – Angie Karan

Love is the center of all life. Life begins with love and exists inside of you forever. This means that you are love, so you are always worthy of it.

Final Thoughts on Quotes to Remember When You Feel Undeserving of Love

As explained before, life gets hard sometimes, and you may feel bad, hurt, or undeserving of love. When this is the case, remember these quotes, and you will find comfort knowing that the way you are feeling isn’t accurate. You are completely deserving of love, and it will come to you when the time is right.

When you have made a mistake or find yourself struggling, don’t tell yourself you aren’t worthy of love. You are always worthy, as these quotes to remember when you feel undeserving of love explain. Keep these quotes handy, and remember them when you need a reminder.

Mom Uses Positivity to Teach Others about Self love and Physical Fitness

January 5, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

Natalie Hillegass, a mom of two herself, teaches other moms about positivity and self-love through fitness. Known as the Positive Fit Mama on Instagram, Natalie shows busy moms how to get exercise with fast, effective workout routines. Mothers always put their families first, and their own needs often get put on the back burner. However, Natalie teaches them that they can still make time for themselves no matter how hectic life gets.

In addition to posting some of her workouts on Instagram, she also sells 12-week programs designed just for moms.

Natalie offers the following three programs on her website:

Postpartum Program: This program designed for new moms helps to “reconnect [you] with your deep core, heal your pelvic floor, and learn how to fit fitness in with the demands of motherhood!” The workouts only include your own body weight and resistance bands, and they can be done in 30 minutes 3 times per week. Natalie also includes information on diastasis recti, such as how to heal from it and check if you have it.
HIIT at home: This 12-week program also uses bodyweight and resistance bands, and include 3 30-minute workouts per week. Designed to grow your endurance and confidence, HIIT will give you a great workout in a short amount of time.
Dumbbell Bootcamp: If you have two or more sets of dumbbells lying around at home, you will benefit from this program. It will help you become stronger and more toned in just 12 weeks, and improve your overall physical fitness. You’ll also need resistance bands, and just like the other programs, you will complete 3 30-minute workouts per week.

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A post shared by Natalie I Busy Mom Workouts (@positivefitmama) on Mar 26, 2020 at 12:56pm PDT

All of Natalie’s workout programs cost come with the following perks as well:

videos of each move and modifications
bonus weekly challenges for even more results
weekly goals & affirmations to help you with positive thinking and making lasting lifestyle changes
emails from Natalie to help you with accountability, encouragement and support
monthly fitness tests to track your progress

Natalie says she originally got into fitness for her wedding because she wanted to lose weight and feel good for the big day. However, she said that after she had her daughter 5 years ago, the more important journey began. Natalie realized that self-love and care involve so much more than just physical fitness. She understood the importance of mental well-being and positive thinking, and wanted to help others discover this as well.

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A post shared by Natalie I Busy Mom Workouts (@positivefitmama) on Apr 18, 2020 at 2:11pm PDT

Helping Moms Learn to Love Physical Fitness–and Themselves

“I help moms find confidence now, feel good now, love themselves now, on the way to their goals, so that by the time you get to your goals, that’s just icing on the cake.”

In other words, she shows people how to love and enjoy what they are now rather than waiting for the future to accept themselves. She teaches people to work with what they’ve got and that they deserve their own love as much as anyone else.

Natalie went on to say that her own self-love and fitness journey inspired her to love the body she has now. She still strived to reach her goals, but from a place of love, not hatred for her current state of body or mind. It becomes much easier to accomplish fitness goals, or anything else, when you begin with support and love for yourself. It all starts within our own minds and how we choose to see ourselves.

Natalie says it’s all about adding to her life rather than setting restrictions on it. “I refuse to raise my daughter in a household that talk negatively about bodies, where I only eat celery, while she got to eat french fries,” she says. She doesn’t judge her worth based on what size she wears or what she looks like, and she teaches body positivity to her daughter as well.

“I ended up finding so much freedom. I found food that felt good, I found movement that felt good, I found a sense of confidence that I didn’t know was possible.”

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A post shared by Natalie I Busy Mom Workouts (@positivefitmama) on Apr 11, 2020 at 10:41am PDT

Final Thoughts on Using Positivity to Teach Self-Love and Physical Fitness

You can truly sense the positivity and love coming from her videos, and this inspires other moms out there to achieve their goals. They see Natalie finding time for exercise and self-care, and know that they can transform their lives in the same way. She finds so much joy in helping moms rediscover themselves and feel good in their skin once again.

Natalie loves when other moms realize that they’re a priority in not just their families, but in their own life. “And that not only is she a priority in her family, but by making herself a priority in her family, her family is better because of it.” If you fill your cup up first, you can give more to others, which is what Natalie hopes mothers out there will remember. Self-love and care isn’t selfish – it’s necessary in order to have enough to share with others.

“The more moms who care for themselves, the better this world is gonna be – I guarantee it.”

Her advice for anyone just beginning their journey in physical fitness is to have a mindset of addition, not restriction. In other words, look at all the positivity that will come from treating yourself as a priority. And be kind to yourself

“What fruits and vegetables do you like to eat and want to eat more of? What kind of movement makes your body feel good and your heart feel joyful? Do that!” Basically, she’s saying to look at eating healthy and working out as an act of self-love. These habits are not something that you should dread. Remember all the benefits and positivity that will come from transforming your life and making loving choices for your body, mind, and family.

“So love who you are, find a way to love who you are, break it down,” Natalie says. “Start with just kindness, and liking and respect, and eventually you will get to love.”

10 Flu Season Survival Tips Never to Overlook

January 4, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Millions of people get influenza or flu every winter. The flu is caused by small germs called viruses that spread easily from person to person. Typically, the flu doesn’t make you extremely sick, but it’s life-threatening for individuals with underlying conditions like diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Even though you may not be at high risk, the flu can disrupt your life. Here are 10 helpful suggestions to help you and your family survive the flu season.

How does the flu spread?

Influenza is very contagious, spreading through the air when someone coughs or sneezes. The virus can also live on surfaces for hours, so you can catch it when you touch a door handle or grab a book off a shelf. You’re contagious before you have symptoms, so it’s easy to infect the people around you without knowing it. If you have any symptoms, don’t go to work or school. This will prevent the virus from spreading to your co-workers or school friends.

How do you know if you have the flu or a cold?

The common cold and influenza are common illnesses during the winter. Because some of their symptoms are so similar, you may wonder how to tell the difference. Here’s a chart with the normal symptoms of a cold and the flu and how to tell the difference between the two of them.

Top ten flu season survival tips

Flu season runs from December to March, but it can go even later, and it varies from year to year. As the season rolls around every year, it’s good to be reminded how to avoid getting the flu or to know how to best care for yourself if you get it. Here are some simple but effective flu survival tips.

1. Add some healthy probiotics to your diet

According to a landmark study in the medical journal Current Opinion in Gastroenterology, gut health is key to a healthy immune system. Feeding your gut’s healthy, natural microbiome proves useful in fighting viruses and keeping you well. Additionally, the study notes that a healthy gut may shorten the length of time you experience symptoms if you catch the flu. Scientists continue to research exactly why this connection is so strong.

How do you get probiotics? It is easy–eat fermented foods. Some of the proven offerings you should add to your diet include the following:

Sauerkraut
Kimchi
Kombucha
Tempeh
Pickles
Kefir

2. Wash your hands

Be sure to wash your hands a lot during winter. There are so many germs floating around this time of year. If you are around someone who is sick, besides washing your hand, wipe down surfaces such as doorknobs and counters with bleach wipes. Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. You may want to air out your house once a day by opening the windows and doors to allow the clean, fresh air to move throughout your house.

This will freshen the air and clear out germs floating in the air. Keep hand sanitizer on your desk at work and use it periodically throughout the day.

3. Stay home

If you don’t feel well, be sure to stay home. It’s tempting to want to push through and go to work or school, but it’s not helpful for you. Plus, you could end up spreading the flu to other people around you. Stay home to rest so your body can fight off the virus. If you continue working, your body can’t fight off the virus as well, so you get to run down. This can lead to a secondary infection such as pneumonia.

4. Treat flu with homeopathy

Homeopathy is an effective way to treat flu symptoms. Oscillococcinum supports your body’s ability to fight off the flu virus. It can shorten your symptoms and help you feel better quicker. You can buy it at many grocery stores or online. When you first have flu symptoms, take the first dose of Oscillococcinum. Repeat two or three times every six hours. If you have had the flu for several days, take one dose in the morning and one dose in the evening for three days.

5. Get plenty of rest during flu season

When you have the flu, the best thing you can do for your body is rest in bed. It’s tempting to want to get up and try to do some work. It’s okay to be a couch potato when you have the flu. Turn off your phone and the television and try to sleep a lot since science proves how sleep will boost your immune system for you to better fight off the virus.

6. Drink lots of fluids

Push fluids like water, juice, or clear bone broths. It’s easy to get dehydrated due to the fever, so drinking fluids will replace the fluids your body is losing. Being fully hydrated will help your body heal. Other things that can help you stay hydrated include:

Ice chips
Sports drinks
Clear soda like ginger ale
Ice pops
Lemon-lime sodas
Herbal teas
Seltzer water without sugar

One note. Our readers know we usually share information about why you should avoid sodas and sugary foods. Consider recovering from influenza, a rare exception to this rule.

7. Treating your aches and pains

Influenza can cause achiness and muscle pain. This is because your immune system sends your white blood cells throughout your body to fight the infection, which causes inflammation in your muscles and joints. To alleviate the achiness and stiffness, try taking a warm shower. You can also take a dose or two of acetaminophen if the pain keeps you awake.

8. Fever treatment

Fever is common when you have the flu. The big question is whether you should try to lower your fever with medication or allow the fever to run its course so your body can fight the virus. Studies show that it may be best to ride out a fever and not take fever-lowering drugs. Of course, if you have a medical condition that would put you in danger if you get a fever, you should take a moment to call your doctor to discuss your options. Also, remember to drink lots of fluids because of the fever.

9. Eat nourishing and healthy foods

Being sick is no reason to skip food or to eat unhealthy foods. Boost your body’s immune system with healthy foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals.

Blueberries: These little berries are rich in flavonoids and antioxidants, which boost your immune system. They are also high in vitamin C, which is good to fight off infection.
Bananas: Bananas are high in potassium.
Cranberry: Drink cranberry juice to boost your vitamin C and antioxidants.
Bone broths: These broths are helpful to build up your amino acids. Chicken or beef broths contain lots of vitamins and minerals.
Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal is comfort food when you have the flu. Full of fiber and B vitamins, choose whole old-fashioned oats instead of quick oats since these contain the most vitamins and minerals.

10. Ease your sore throat

The flu can make your throat sore or irritated. Try sucking on throat lozenges, hard candies, or cough drops to ease your throat irritations. Zinc lozenges are also good for your throat, plus they may help your body fight off the infection. Some people find relief for a sore throat through gargling with warm salt water twice a day.

What if you’re not getting better?

Everybody responds differently to the flu. The flu virus usually lasts from 7 to 14 days with aches, pains, fever, and fatigue. If you feel like you’re not getting better, you may want to watch for these symptoms.

Trouble breathing
Shortness of breath or coughing up thick mucus
Fever comes and goes.
Your symptoms last longer than two weeks.
Chest pain
Ear pain
Bad sinus pains
A dry cough that hangs on after you have no other symptoms

If you have these symptoms, call your doctor right away. You may have a secondary bacterial infection along with the flu. Your doctor can prescribe an antibiotic to fight off the bacterial infection.

Final thoughts on staying healthy during flu season

Influenza is a common winter viral infection that, according to the CDC, causes anywhere from 10 to 45 million illnesses every year. It’s important to guard against getting the flu by getting a yearly flu vaccination. This may prevent you from getting the flu entirely or at least reducing severe symptoms of the flu.

Wash your hand often during the winter and if possible, stay away from anyone who has the flu. If you do get the flu, try taking the homeopathic remedy Oscillococcinum right to help fight off the infection. Sleep, drink plenty of fluids, and eat healthy foods. Take warm showers to reduce the achiness, and take an aspirin or acetaminophen if the pain is too bad. If your symptoms persist longer than two weeks or you develop a bad cough or high fever, call your doctor. They can help you find relief if you don’t beat the viral infection on your own.

10 Things That Make Your Muscles Twitch

January 4, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Your muscles serve vital functions for your body. They work with your nerves, bones, and joints to provide movement, flexibility, and mobility. They perform a complex process of stretching and contracting for each move you make.

Not all muscle movement is voluntary. Your heart is a compact muscle organ that works automatically, even when you’re asleep. Other involuntary muscles aid in digestion and other essential bodily functions.

Like rubber bands, your muscles are elastic and can expand and contract at your brain’s command. However, some conditions can cause involuntary muscle twitches, or quivers, which are a nuisance. If you have them chronically, they can affect your activities for daily living.

Ten Possible Causes of Muscle Twitching and How to Reduce Them at Home

A muscle twitch can present anywhere in your body, although it’s common in your face and outer extremities. Have you noticed a problem with your muscles? Here are ten common causes of a muscle twitch and how you can get them under control.

1. Stress

It’s impossible to live without some form of stress. Although stress is often uncomfortable, you need some to grow and learn throughout life. However, too much stress can cause you physical and mental issues, as well as make your muscles quiver.

When you are stressed, your brain goes into survival mode with the flight, fight, freeze, or faint options. It pumps adrenaline and cortisone into your bloodstream for a needed burst of life-saving energy. Chronic overdoses of these hormones can lead to high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke, cancer, and mental illness.

•Remedy

Give your body and your twitching muscles a break and try to reduce the stress in your life. Learn to choose your battles and realize that many things in the world are out of your control. However, you can control how you react to them.

Try things like meditation, visualization, or a mindful exercise like yoga. Many people find stress relief by keeping their thoughts in a journal. Less stress means less tension and less muscle fatigue.

2. Certain Medications

Your best option is to take medicine prescribed by your healthcare providers for some medical or mental conditions. Unfortunately, some of the medications you must take have unwanted side effects, like muscle twitches. You may notice them in the day, or they can bother you at night.

Your medical providers chose medications that should have more benefits than side effects. Many side effects are mild and will disappear as your body gets used to the drug. If not, it’s time to talk to a professional.

•Remedy

Do any of your medications or herbal supplements give you unpleasant side effects like muscle weakness and quivers? Some medicines can be changed for others that would suit you better. Remember that you should never alter or stop any medication without medical advice.

3. Sleep Deprivation

Between juggling a family, career, and other social obligations, it’s no wonder so many people in our country don’t get enough sleep. Statistics say that at least 50-70 percent of Americans have some sort of sleep disorder. Are you one of those people who stay in a fog of exhaustion?

Not only can sleep deprivation cause muscle fatigue and quivering, but it can take a toll on your mental and physical health. If you are having problems with your muscles, it may be the reason why you’re not sleeping well. Poor sleep patterns need to be addressed.

•Remedy

Aim to get at least 7-9 hours of solid sleep each night. Turn off the technology and make your bedroom a dark, quiet oasis that is conducive to sleep. If you suspect that you may have sleep apnea or restless leg syndrome, consult your primary healthcare provider.

4. Dehydration

Did you know that at least 60 percent of your body is made up of water? You can go for a while without food, but you’ll die quickly without water. Your body must have water to nourish cells and for every system to function properly.

One primary function of drinking water is to keep your muscles, joints, and connective tissues supple and lubricated. If you notice quivers in your muscles, you could be dehydrated. You may be among the many people in America who are thirsty and don’t even realize it.

•Remedy

The simple fix for dehydration is to drink enough pure water every day. Although beverages like coffee, tea, and soda are water-based, your body still needs plain water to function correctly. Recent medical research recommends that you drink at least 4-7 cups a day of water if you’re a woman and 6-11 cups if you’re a man.

5. Drinking Too Much Caffeine or Alcohol

What’s the first thing you reach for in the morning? If you say coffee, you’re not alone. Many people crave that swift kick of caffeine to jumpstart their brains for the day. Maybe you sip your way through a pot of coffee at work and brew another pot when you get home.

Do you consume alcohol? Maybe you are a social drinker and drink modestly, or you drink a little more than you should. What you drink isn’t as important as how much you drink.

Most people tend to forget that both caffeine and alcohol are drugs. Overconsumption can have negative effects on your health and may cause things like weakness and muscle twitches. Plus, these drugs are habit-forming and can be a double problem when consumed simultaneously.

•Remedy

Remember that the best beverage for quenching your thirst is plain water. If you need a little pep from caffeine, limit yourself to 2 cups of coffee a day or one caffeinated soda. CDC guidelines recommend a limit of one alcoholic drink for women and two for men in a day.

Know the causes and symptoms of neuropathy–and how to care for yourself at home.

6. Intense Workouts

Your body needs proper exercise to stay fit and in optimal health. If you practice intense exercise like running, weight lifting, or cardio training, you lose much water and essential electrolytes by sweating.

After a hard workout session, you may feel a little weak and notice quivers in your muscles. Sometimes, the muscle problems may last and even bother you at night. It doesn’t mean that you must give up your exercise regimen.

•Remedy

It’s normal to feel a little sore after a solid workout. However, if you notice that your muscles are continually twitching and making you uncomfortable, perhaps your workout is too intense. Seek advice from a certified fitness instructor or your healthcare provider.

7. Smoking

As if you needed another reason to quit smoking, add this to your warning list. Did you know that smoking can deplete oxygen from your body and make your muscles weak and quivery?

•Remedy

There are no safe alternatives to smoking, and reduction won’t help. Your best solution is to talk to your healthcare provider about a smoking cessation program that’s right for you. Your body starts to heal within hours after you quit smoking.

8. Poor Diet Habits

If you don’t consume a balanced diet with enough vitamins, minerals, and fiber, your entire body will pay the consequences. If you are overweight or obese, you risk serious health conditions like hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and premature death.

Just because you are thin doesn’t mean you are healthy. Likewise, a person can be obese and still be malnourished. These conditions can wear down your muscles and cause irritating twitches.

•Remedy

Consume a balanced diet with enough protein, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats. A proper diet can help your body get toned and fit. Consult a registered dietician or your primary healthcare provider for an eating plan that’s tailored to your needs.

9. Pinched Nerves

Your brain and nerve connections control both voluntary and involuntary muscle movements. Your primary nerves branch out from your spinal cord. If any nerve gets in a pinch because of spinal injuries or disorders, it can cause an uncontrollable twitch in your muscles.

•Remedy

Sometimes, a misaligned spine can cause pinched nerves, pain, and muscle issues. Many people find relief by being treated by a certified chiropractor. If you have nerve damage or spinal problems, you should consult a bone or neurological specialist.

10. Underlying Medical Conditions

For the most part, muscle twitches are benign and can be treated successfully by changing lifestyle habits. However, they can also be signs of serious diseases that attack your nerves, joints, or muscles. Some of these include multiple sclerosis, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s disease, as well as ALS.

•Remedy

While some of these diseases can be heredity, many of them aren’t. Quivering in the face and eyes can be warning signals of stroke or Bell’s palsy. To be on the safe side, consult your primary healthcare provider.

Final Thoughts on Avoiding the Things That Make Your Muscles Twitch

It’s normal to experience an occasional twitch in your muscles. When they become uncomfortable or disrupt your life, it’s time to find a solution. If lifestyle changes don’t help, consult your primary healthcare provider to look for underlying causes.

10 Ways to Improve Motivation (Even During a Slump)

January 3, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Henry Ford once stated that people who don’t think they can do something certainly wouldn’t accomplish anything. As one of America’s legendary first automakers, Ford had keen insight into what it takes to achieve goals. What can you do to improve motivation in your life?

The root word of motivation is a motive when it’s something that causes you to move in a specific direction. Children learn through guidance and experience that their actions bring predictable outcomes. For example, press a button on the toy, and it will make a sound and move.

These elementary examples are ways to learn how to set goals and the best ways to accomplish them. When you were in school, you knew that you had to study to get a good grade on a test. You soon realized that you needed high scores to graduate and be a success as an adult.

Nobody ever made life goals to be idle, bored, and unfulfilled. Yet, so many people end up like that because they aren’t motivated. They’ve yet to believe in themselves and their abilities. Many of them haven’t even defined their goals.

Even when you think you have tangible goals for your life, you may change the course many times. It’s normal and necessary to revise your plans and methods. However, you can’t lose sight of who you are and the most important things.

Highly motivated people plan for the future, but they realize how crucial it is to live in the present. It’s never too late to step out of your comfort zone and rebuild your life’s plans. Perhaps you can benefit from talking to a trusted friend, loved one, or spiritual mentor.

Ways to Improve Your Motivation

The best time to improve motivation is now. It starts with a pencil, a sheet of paper, and a determined attitude. Here are ten ways you can enhance motivation and realize the potential you’ve always had within.

1. Set a Daily Goal

If you want more motivation in your life, you’ve got to know what you want to achieve. A life without purpose leaves you running in circles and unfulfilled. It would help if you had goals to encourage you to work harder and go farther.

However, you’ll feel overwhelmed if you try to do everything at once. Instead, break your goals into smaller portions and set a daily goal for yourself. It’s easier to look at losing two pounds a week than the fifty total pounds you need to shed.

2. Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle

When you are sick, tired, and malnourished, you don’t feel like doing anything. Are you one of every three Americans who struggle with extra weight or obesity? Did you know that you can be overweight or obese and still be malnourished?

Modern experts agree with the Ancient Greek philosopher, Epicurus, that you are what you eat. When your diet is overwhelmed with overly processed junk food laden with fat, sugar, and preservatives, it won’t fuel your body. An unhealthy diet can lead to severe health conditions and even premature death.

To improve your motivation, talk to your primary healthcare provider about a diet and fitness regimen that’s best for you. A healthy diet can help you lose weight and have more energy. Exercise tones and strengthens your body so that you can reach the goals you’ve set.

3. Practice Kindness Every Day

Remember, in the classic Dickens novel, when Scrooge admired his long-dead partner for being a “man of business?” The shackled specter wailed that humanity should be our business. Like most works of fiction, many truths can be found in this timeless story, especially about practicing kindness.

You can improve motivation by treating others the way you expect to be treated. Research has found that doing acts of kindness gives people more joy and satisfaction in their lives. Even if you achieve all your life’s goals, you’ll never be genuinely happy if you are a cruel and selfish person.

Motivated people understand that we are all connected, from the person who sweeps the hallways to the chairman of the board. Try to practice kindness each day, and maybe consider random good deeds. Even if you don’t believe in karma, you are bound to have your kindness come back around to you at some point.

4. Never Stop Learning

Just because you’ve graduated from school or college doesn’t mean you can’t learn anymore. Learning and self-improvement is a life-long journey for those who are motivated. Part of listing your goals includes research about the subjects and the best ways to accomplish them.

Do you plan to work your way up in your company? Listen to others who have been there longer and learn anything they have to offer. Keep yourself mentally sharp by reading and keeping up with current events. You can also enrich your life by learning new hobbies or another language.

5. Avoid Being Around Negative People

In the iconic children’s books about Winnie-the-Pooh, you’ll remember gloomy Eeyore the donkey. Whenever Pooh and his friends are together, poor Eeyore has something negative to say. No matter how much fun the forest animals are having, the old donkey sulks and stays miserable.

Does that sound like a familiar scenario to you? Everyone has an Eeyore in the crowd, be it a loved one, friend, or coworker. They never have anything positive to say about anyone or anything. Negativity is easily spread and can hamper your mood and energy levels as well as your motivation.

As much as possible, avoid being around such motivation zappers. They can do nothing but bring you down and make you feel negative, too. Pessimists often are more prone to mental illness and other severe health conditions that you don’t want.

6. Surround Yourself with a Positive Atmosphere

Instead, improve motivation by keeping company with optimistic people. Positive people aren’t without problems. Instead, they have discovered that solving problems is just another opportunity to reach their life goals.

Have you noticed that when you are with positive people, the atmosphere is charged, and you feel better about yourself? As you listen to their optimistic viewpoints and stories of overcoming challenges, it gives you the courage and motivation to do the same.

7. Cultivate Your Spirituality

It’s a grave mistake to equate religion with spirituality, although most use them interchangeably. It’s possible to be religious without being spiritual, and you can be spiritual without being religious. Faith is a conduit that many people use to channel their spiritual energy.

You can improve your motivation when you attend to your spiritual nature. It’s taking time to meditate and realize a universe that’s much bigger than you. Spiritual maturity helps you bring your goals into a better perspective.

8. Remember to Give Back

Maybe one of your goals is to share your blessings and give back to your community and your world. Remember the people who mentored you and gave you a hand when you needed it most? You can do the same for other people.

While giving your resources is right and admirable, you can also consider sharing time, skill, and knowledge. Volunteer in a soup kitchen or be an afterschool tutor for at-risk children. Giving back gives you a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment that money can’t buy.

9. Always Room for Improvement

It’s a sobering thought to realize that nobody in the world has “arrived.” No matter your position, your possessions, or what you’ve accomplished, there’s always room for improvement. That’s not to say that you should be materialistic and never satisfied with what you have.

To improve motivation, you should try to learn something new each day. There are always innovative ways of thinking and people who can be your inspiration. Often, you’ll modify your list of goals with age, experience, and knowledge.

10. Invest Yourself in Experiences Rather than Things

When you talk to most seniors, you probably won’t hear them say they wished they would have spent more time in the office. Instead, many of them will express regrets that they didn’t spend more time with their loved ones and enjoying what they had.

Of course, you need income and financial security for the future, but that’s not all. Review your list of goals and see if it includes experiences. You’ll improve your motivation when you visit new places and do the fun things you’ve always wanted to do.

Precious experiences with your loved ones can never be taken from you.

Final Thoughts about How to Improve Motivation in Your Life

If you want to accomplish anything, you need to be backed by the “want to.” Motivation is the incentive that drives you to step out of the norm and work for what you want. Reaching your goals will only encourage you to develop new ones.

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

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!