Page 547

Science Explains What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Acai Berries Every Day

August 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Acai (ah-si-ee) berry fruit is native to South America, Belize, Brazil, and Peru. These little earthy flavored berries are packed with nutrition. You may be curious about how healthy they are for you. And, you’ll be fascinated to learn the emerging science that explains what happens to your body if you incorporate acai into your daily diet.

What Are Acai Berries?

Grown on the acai palm, acai berry fruit is around an inch in size and purplish-red berries. Some say the acai berry fruit tastes something like a mix between a blackberry and unsweetened, dark chocolate. After harvesting the fruit, it’s soaked in water to tenderize the fruit’s outer skin. Then it’s smashed into a purple-colored paste and freeze-dried into made into powder. Some acai fruit is frozen and sold as pulp.

You can buy acai powder to mix into your smoothies or with other fruit. Be sure to purchase organic acai powder to ensure the best quality. You can also purchase acai berry puree to mix with water or milk to create a smoothie base that you add other fruits.

10 Reasons to Try Acai Supplementation

Researchers are still learning all the benefits of the acai fruit, but here is a list of 10 possible health benefits of eating acai berry fruit.

These plant-based recipes are so scrumptious that you won’t miss the meat!

High in vitamins and minerals

Grown in the Amazon region, the acai fruit clusters are green until they ripen into a deep purple color. The pulp has a sticky consistency that can be made into jellies, syrup, liquors, ice cream, and energy drinks. It’s dark purple color makes it a natural dye, so it’s used as a natural food color.

Acai fruit is packed with vitamins C, A, and E. It also contains calcium, phosphorus, iron, thiamine, and polyphenols. Polyphenols have many health benefits, including better digestive health.

Could help you lose weight

Eating acai fruit pulp, one study found, could reduce your chances of a metabolic disease risk if you’re overweight. A metabolic disease happens when your body has an abnormal amount of chemical reactions affecting your liver and pancreas. These organs aid your digestion. But if your liver or pancreas are in distress due to the chemical reactions, they won’t function properly, giving you an increased chance of diseases like Type 2 diabetes. Plus, if your body isn’t metabolizing properly, it inhibits your ability to lose weight. Researchers say they need to do more studies to understand the complete benefits of acai fruit on metabolic disease and weight loss.

May lower your cholesterol.

An early study found the acai fruit could lower cholesterol. In this study, the participants ate the same amount of acai for 30 days. After 30 days, the researchers found there was a reduction in the participant’s cholesterol as well as a reduction in their LDL cholesterol compared to their total cholesterol. This is encouraging since acai fruit could be a natural way for people to reduce their cholesterol, so they don’t need to take medications. Further studies are needed to confirm the full benefits of eating acai fruit, reducing cholesterol, but hopefully in there will be good news in the future for those who suffer from high cholesterol.

May improve heart health.

Studies found there could be significant benefits to eating acai fruit because of its high vitamin C levels, flavonoids, and polyphenols that have been found to protect you again from heart disease. Studies are still in the works to understand the full benefits of acai fruit to prevent heart disease.

One of the difficulties with studying and eating acai fruit is that it’s not native to the United States. There is no way to gauge the growing or processing to be sure there are no pesticides and other toxic chemicals. Plus, some people suggest the way the fruit is processed could hamper its full health potential.

Antioxidants

Acai fruit has antioxidants that enhance your cell’s growth. They also slow down certain chemical reactions during oxidation that break up the free radicals that can harm your cells. Antioxidants prevent the narrowing of the arteries and lower the levels of cholesterol in your body. Antioxidants may also limit your chances of specific types of cancer.

Improve muscle damage due to exercise

One study done on junior athletes found helpful benefits for relieving muscle fatigue. The participants drank the acai berry fruit juice mix for six weeks. After six weeks, the researchers found some modest improvements in lowering muscle damage due to exercise. Although the improvement was minimal, the study was the first of further studies to better understand the ways acai may be used in the future to help athletes.

High in fiber

The grape-like acai fruit is also having a decent amount of fiber. Drinking acai fruit pulp is especially good because that’s how you get most of the fiber. A high-fiber diet has many health benefits, including

Keeps you regular. Fiber helps your intestines function properly and regularly. It helps elevate constipation or diarrhea, giving you a normal looking stool.
Lowering your chances of getting hemorrhoids.
Lowering your cholesterol.
Helping you control your blood sugar-People who have diabetes need fiber to help slow down the absorption of sugar.
It can help you lose weight or control your weight. When you eat high fiber, you feel satiated, so you don’t eat as much.
Eating high fiber can help you live longer.

You can combine acai fruit pulp with other berries to make a super nutritious drink or smoothie packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Acai Berry Recipes

Acai powder is versatile, so you use it in all types of recipes. Here are two for you to try.

Acai berry smoothie

Ingredients:

Acai powder three tablespoons
1-2 bananas, smashed and frozen
⅓ cup of frozen strawberries
⅓ cup of frozen blueberries or blackberries
One teaspoon flax seed
½ cup of almond milk, use more if you want
½ cold water

Directions:

Blend powder, fruit, flaxseed, and milk together. You can change up the berries or add other seeds like chia or hemp for different flavors.

Acai & blueberry muffins

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees. Line your muffin tin with liners.

Ingredients:

2 cups flour
1 cup almond milk
1/3 cup butter
One teaspoon vanilla
One teaspoon acai powder
1/3 honey
1/2 cup blueberries or blackberries

Directions:

Fold together ingredients. Pour some muffin mixture into each lined cup.
Bake for 25 to 30 minutes.
Remove the muffin pan from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes.
Remove each muffin from its cup and set on a tray to cool for another 10 minutes.

Warnings About Acai Supplements

If you’re eating large amounts of acai fruit in smoothies or foods, be sure to mention this to your doctor. It can affect your other meds. The acai fruit does alter MRI test results, so inform your doctor. They can suggest how long prior to the test. You should stop eating these products.

Also, acai may not be safe if you’re pregnant or breast-feeding. So far, there haven’t been enough scientific studies to verify that acai is safe in these circumstances. Some early studies indicate it’s relatively safe, but it’s important to wait till there are more extensive studies.

Beware of any foods touted as superfoods. Many of these claims don’t have a proper scientific basis. Right now, some people make internet claims that this berry heals every disease known to man. That would be nice if this were true, but as of today, the studies just don’t prove all the claims.

Researchers are especially careful when it comes to imported foods due to their limited knowledge of growing processes and ability to control how the fruit was harvested or processed. Other countries don’t have the same safety standards as the United States regarding pesticides and other chemicals.

Final Thoughts on Adding Acai to Your Diet

If you choose to eat acai powder or frozen acai pulp in your recipes, be careful about which brands you choose. Buy only organic acai products from reputable companies. If possible, get information on how the fruit was processed.

You want to eat the healthiest you can, so enjoy the unique flavor of acai fruit in your favorite recipes.

8 Things Hypnotherapy Can Help

August 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Did you know that you have natural resources within that can help you to make changes or fix out of control areas in your life? When you enter a trance-like state in hypnotherapy, you turn your thoughts inwards to tap into these resources. A hypnotherapist can help you to conquer the demons that hold you back.

When Should You Use Hypnotherapy?

There are many different types of therapy, and hypnosis is considered an adjunct form that is used in combination with other styles. It can treat obsessions, impulse control issues, relationship problems, and can even aid in pain management. It’s also been used by the medical community to help with gastrointestinal disorders, skin issues, and learning syndromes.

You should consider this alternative therapy if you’ve tried and failed with other varieties. Keep in mind that everything won’t be fixed with the wave of a wand, but with a few sessions, you are likely to notice a sizable difference in your problem.

What to Expect in Hypnotherapy?

There are many different techniques that a hypnotherapist can use to put you into a trance-like state. For starters, everything is done in a therapeutic environment where the calm and serene nature is beneficial to help you enter an altered level of consciousness.

Once you have tapped into the focused zone, you will be asked to talk about experiences that have happened to you that are troublesome. You usually identify these issues with the therapist before you begin. It would help if you didn’t let Hollywood’s version of hypnosis sway your thoughts.

No reputable hypnotist is going to have you clucking like a chicken or doing other silly acts. This is a therapy form and nothing that belongs in a circus. You won’t be in an unconscious sleep where you lose all self-control. At all times, you will remain in full control of your actions. If you’re wondering how to promote hypnotherapy effectively, focus on educating the public about its therapeutic benefits and dispelling common myths.

You will be given several suggestions and things to do to help you conquer whatever problem you’re facing, but you have a decision whether you act on these suggestions or not.

How Does Hypnosis Work?

How many sessions you need will depend on the level of your problem. Someone who has fought angst for twenty years is probably not going to be magically cured in one session. Your practitioner will decide how many courses he or she thinks you need.

When selecting a hypnotherapist, you need to make sure you find an individual affiliated with the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis. Since you are opening your mind to an altered state, you don’t want just anyone putting suggestions into your psyche. You want someone who is fully trained to do this type of therapy.

To be a hypnotherapist, an individual must hold a doctorate level degree in the medical field, plus they must take hours of training to receive their practitioner’s license. Like doctors, these practitioners all have different bedside manners, so it’s essential to find a person you feel you can work with to heal these areas of your life. Qualifications are only one part of finding a hypnotherapist; the other part is a good rapport with you.

When To Use Hypnotherapy Over Traditional Medicine?

The medical community has something for every ache and pain you have. However, these methods don’t always work. Sometimes, medication just masks the problem and provides a bandage. The minute you stop taking the prescriptions, your issue acerbates.

Thankfully, there are a few times when you should try alternative measures before you go to traditional treatments. Here are eight of those instances.

1. Weight Loss

According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 71 percent of Americans are overweight or obese. Those numbers are staggering, considering the health problems that come along with the excess pounds. The diet industry is booming with products and promises to fix it all with a shake or protein bar.

However, it takes more than a meal replacement to help you lose weight. You need to change your mindset. Hypnotherapy gives you the ability to get to the root of the problem. You may be overeating to self-medicate for issues from your childhood.

Through guided hypnosis, you can channel your innermost parts where healing and restoration take place.

2. Better Sleep

One hundred things can cause insomnia, and it can last for days or weeks. When you don’t have enough sleep, your body cannot function properly. When you undergo hypnosis, you are tackling the issues that keep you up at night.

Insomnia is caused by nervousness, hopelessness, stress, thyroid problems, the foods you eat, your lifestyle, and chronic pain. Hypnotherapy helps to fix those things, which in return helps you to get more rest.

3. Anxiety

Do you lie awake at night, rolling over events and things beyond your control? Are you worried about bills, relationships, and how to make it through another day? Chronic angst is a mental illness that affects more than 40 million adults in the United States.

When you’re in a constant state of angst, your cortisol and adrenaline levels in your body are high. Being in continuous turmoil can take a real toll on your health. While you can reach for the medications your doctor wants to prescribe that are habit-forming or have many side effects, you can also use hypnotherapy to conquer these problems.

4. Depression

Depression and anxiety often co-occur. While chronic sadness is a severe mental health concern, it can be treated. Some blues are circumstantial and not caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain.

You have the power to take control of the circumstances that are bringing you down, and hypnosis is the tool to do it.

5. Overcoming Grief

Grief comes in all shapes and sizes. It can stem from the loss of a loved one, or it can be caused by personal turmoil. There is no easy way to get over the situations that have you oppressed, but there are things that can make it better.

When you tap into your innermost being, you can rejuvenate parts of your mind that are affected by trauma. While the situation that caused you to feel hurt and despair won’t go away, you will be able to better deal with it.

6. Conquering Phobias

Do you have a phobia of something that you would like to conquer? Are you afraid of the dark, spiders, snakes, or getting behind the wheel? Fears can escalate and get out of control without rhyme or reason.

You may find that some silly things bring you significant discomfort, usually tied to childhood trauma or other events. For instance, a person who is afraid to get behind the wheel of a car may be petrified because of a car accident.

They may have flashbacks of the event that leave them paralyzed in panic. Hypnotherapy is just what you need to put fear in its place. The power can control these irrational sensations from within.

7. Nail Biting

Nail-biting is a horrible habit that is caused by nervousness. It’s all part of a disorder called dermatophagia, which is a body-focused repetitive behavior. While biting your nails may be one problem, you can chew on your tongue, bit your cheek, eat the skin around your fingers, and exhibit other repetitive behaviors.

While CBT or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a hallmark treatment for this condition, it can be added to hypnotherapy. These repetitive behaviors often respond very well to guided hypnosis.

8. Smoking Cessation

Smoking is a significant problem in this country. Even with all the awareness of lung cancer and other breathing problems, people still can’t give up the nicotine. Vaping was considered a viable option, but then it too came with difficulties. If you find yourself lighting up throughout the day, then you need to stop.

Perhaps, you’ve already tried gum, patches, antidepressants, and other treatments to no avail. Now, it’s time for you to tap into that inner power to quit this dangerous habit. A study was conducted on 19 participants who smoked at least ten cigarettes per day.

Within just a few sessions, more than half of the subjects stop smoking. Thankfully, six months after the study had concluded, one-third of the participants still hadn’t picked up the habit. Hypnosis is an excellent tool to help you get rid of bad habits and learn how to live a positive life without dependency.

Final Thoughts on Giving Hypnotherapy a Try When Traditional Medicine Fails

Hypnotherapy has been around for more than 5,000 years. It’s been proven time and again to be a substantial help to those who want to live a better life free of fears, sadness, and other problems. You have the power to change your circumstances; you just need someone to guide you to unleash this inner strength.

There are many other alternative therapies that you can add to hypnosis, such as needling, cupping, and acupuncture. Isn’t it time to try natural remedies first?

15 Ways Negative Self Talk Damages Self-Esteem (And How To Fix It)

August 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

At times, we can be our own worst enemies. While the world can be cruel and people can try to hurt you, a lot of the time, what external sources throw at you isn’t nearly as severe as what you throw at yourself, and that can often show up in the form of negative self talk.

Many people learn the process of negative self-talk at a very young age. It’s a frighteningly easy habit to fall into, and it’s one that’s best broken out of as soon as possible.

Here are 15 ways negative self talk can damage your self-esteem, and how to fix it.

1. Exaggerated Ideas of Responsibility

Living in the performance-driven rat’s race, our society has become has not been kind to us, and many of us have developed all sorts of cognitive distortions about responsibility as a result.

Said distorted thoughts are similar to how they manifest in sufferers with social anxiety disorder, and research has shown it often paves the way towards depression and stress. Here are a few ways to combat such self-talk:

Be kind and gracious to yourself.
Learn how to let go of things outside your control
Establishing and reinforcing your boundaries to take care of your limited resources

2. Magnifying Things

Unlike positive thinking, negative thinking often blows minor inconveniences out of proportion and exaggerates one’s flaws. As a result, we end up making mountains out of molehills and use it as an opportunity to lambast ourselves. To counteract this, try:

Taking a moment to think of the worst possible scenario, then the best possible scenario, before figuring out what the most realistic and likely and average scenario will be
Challenge your negative thoughts
Recognize and admit that you’re being anxious or negative, before calming yourself
Consider what positive things people may have to say about you

3. Thinking In Extremes

Negative thinking often manifests itself in an all-or-nothing language. You may find your negative thoughts using language like “always” and “never”, or “everyone” and “no one”. The truth is, that isn’t the case – the reality is always so much more complicated than that.

Instead of telling yourself again that nobody cares about you, try to:

Keep a written record full of positive experiences as concrete proof
Avoid thinking in extremes
Remember that this is just a feeling, and it too will pass
Put in the hard work and effort to create a situation you desire

4. Using Emotional Reasoning

In contrast to how positive thinking and objective reasoning is a hallmark of healthy self-esteem, research has shown that emotional reasoning often arises from individuals with cognitive distortions.

Emotional reasoning is when a person uses their subjective feelings as evidence and proof of a situation or decision, instead of referring to objective truth and reality. This perception often results in procrastination or depression, which isn’t ideal. Keep in mind that:

Emotions are temporary, and moments like these will pass.
You should try grounding and calming yourself before you make a decision or reaffirm a thought.
There’s often a deeper root cause for such emotional reasoning that likely needs to be tackled.

5. Unhelpful “Motivation”

It’s easy to bombard ourselves with “should” statements – that we should have tried harder, that we shouldn’t have done that. The reality, however, is far more unpredictable and ambiguous than you might think. There is no way to be sure that doing what you think you should’ve done would’ve somehow mitigated the risk. Instead:

Be gentle with yourself
Reward yourself positively
Be generous with treats and encouragement
Remind yourself that things don’t have to be complete – you just need to try

6. Thinking You Can Mind Read

If you suffer from low self-esteem or negative self-talk, science has shown that you’re likely to end up “mind reading”. This isn’t mind reading in any sense of the word – instead, you’re only imagining what someone is thinking or feeling, often in a biased and inaccurate manner. Rather, try:

Avoid playing the guessing game
Maintain open and heartfelt communication channels
Ask to clarify instead of assuming

7. Guilt Tripping

Guilt-tripping isn’t just a tool to manipulate others – it can also be used to beat yourself up with, leading to low self-esteem and negative thoughts. This can happen when you let everything that you regret or feel ashamed about dictate your actions and behavior, on the basis that you don’t deserve happiness or success because of them.

It can be easy to wallow in shame and guilt, but this isn’t healthy behavior. Instead:

Forgive yourself and move on.
Remind yourself that you deserve all of life’s good things as well.
Focus on the good you have done and can do.
Understand that it’s impossible to be perfect, and that shouldn’t define who you are.

8. Predicting The Future

Negative self-talk often drives us to imagine the worst-case scenario, and then fixate on it as if it is reality. This overthinking ends up causing anxiety and stress, as we have no way of confirming that our prediction will come true until an event confirms or denies it.

The truth is, this is just a fault of inflexible imagination and a fixation on adverse outcomes. To avoid this, try:

Distracting yourself with some other task
Consider what would be the best-case scenario and how that might also be possible.
Focus on the present
Consider whether the imagined scenario has any real, objective basis and grounds for it.

9. Overgeneralizations

It might not feel like much, but research proves that overgeneralization is an adaptive emotion that is born out of fear. You can see this in animal training, where desensitization to one stimulus often applies to most stimuli in the future.

Similarly, we often end up overgeneralizing every negative situation or event, and in the process, glossing over or forgetting exceptions to the rule. To combat this, consider instead:

Bearing in mind that this is an emotion that will pass
Admitting to yourself that you’re overgeneralizing
Remind yourself that there are exceptions to the rule than you can remember off the top of your head
Trying to actually remember when was the last time a similar incident happened

10. Analyzing Feelings Too Deeply

Emotions can be challenging to deal with, especially when your thought patterns are already easily influenced by said emotions. Many of us then would rather see and treat our feelings as a problem that should be resolved or fixed as soon as possible.

The truth is, trying to “fix” these feelings isn’t always possible. Sometimes, all you have to do is:

Be mindful of your thoughts and feelings
Take time to simply notice and observe these emotions and their sources
Breathe, and let them pass without clinging on to them

11. Only Thinking In Black and White

Defined by psychologists as dichotomous thinking, black-and-white thinking is when you view all situations, events, and thoughts in the extremes. Normally, we tend to exaggerate expectations due to our inability to consider an expectation that lies between two extremes. As a result, we often fail to reach them and disappoint ourselves in the process. Instead, try:

Allowing for grace and forgiveness should expectations not be reached
Focus on what has been successfully achieved, rather than what was not
Be aware of any polarizing thoughts you may have
Don’t be hard on yourself

12. Harsh Narrative Voice

We are often the narrator of our own lives, telling ourselves and explaining to ourselves what is happening in a manner akin to reading a storybook. As you can imagine, the entire tone of the story changes if the tone of the narrator is a harsh and cruel one. After all, who would want to read a story that is continuously negative and self-bashing?

Here are a few ways to change your internal narrative voice to something more positive:

Be gentle in how you approach and think about things
If you won’t narrate or say this to someone you love, do not apply it to yourself
Maintain awareness of when you start being internally harsh towards yourself

13. Minimizing Things

The complete opposite of magnification, minimization is when we downplay or dismiss our capabilities and achievements. Instead of receiving praise and congratulations gracefully, we may find ourselves brushing it off or nitpicking on some minor flaws.

This results in us being trapped constantly feeling inferior and unappreciated, as we never allow ourselves to be truly boosted up by encouragements and compliments. To combat this, try:

Accepting encouragements and compliments with a simple “thank you.”
Give yourself permission to indulge in admiration and praise
Focus on what you have successfully achieved
Reward yourself for what you’ve done

14. Habitual Self-Critique

Self-criticism and personal high standards are important tools in the path to self-betterment. Just like any tool, however, these can be abused. Instead of striving to do better, you might find yourself passing judgment on yourself instantly as a gut reaction. This, as you can imagine, isn’t actually helpful.

Instead, it would be more productive if you were to:

Setting aside time to mull over a perceived mistake or flaw
Make self-criticism an intentional and deliberate act.
Take a quick moment to assess whether there is any proper basis for it.

15. Labeling Others and Yourself

Life is easier when we slap ourselves with a label – it gives us an identity to rally around, and in turn, a sense of belonging. This is a tool that can be abused, however. When that label is a negative and degrading one, it can be harmful to our psyche and mental wellbeing. Instead, remind yourself that:

The human condition is a complex and ever-changing experience – a single label cannot possibly encompass all of it
Labels applied in the heat of a moment or as a result of negativity are often inaccurate
Labels are ultimately meant to help ourselves and others, not tear them down
It’s best to use labels as positive identifiers we can use to build ourselves up with

Final Thoughts On Some Ways Negative Self-Talk Can Damage Your Self-Esteem And How To Fix It

Negative self-talk is an extremely damaging process, sprung from insecurities, fears, and the influence of others. It can damage your self-esteem significantly, which is why you need to learn to combat it. If you’re struggling in this area, don’t be afraid to reach out for help, whether from loved ones or from a trained mental health professional.

10 Signs Someone Is a Kindred Spirit In Your Life

August 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

A kindred spirit is hard to come by, but you can find them in the least expected places.

If you feel like you connected to your new friend on a deeper level, they may be a kindred spirit. This relationship will be positive and supportive, and you’ll have a deep, meaningful, and mutual connection with them.

There will be positive energy between the two of you, and you’ll always be encouraging to one another. Your views of the world may also be similar. You won’t be the same as your bestie, but they will have similar thought processes and values.

Many people reference energy when discussing kindred connections. Some believe that your bestie will have the same frequency as you. This synchronicity results in energy matching and a deep connection. It is the reason you get along so well with them, and the reason you understand each other so well.

Ten Signs That Your New Friend Is a Kindred Spirit

Having a relationship with a kindred spirit will allow you to learn and grow positively. This relationship will have the same effect on your friend, too, as it’s all about a mutual connection. To ease your curiosity, these signs will help you know if your new friend is a kindred spirit.

1. Your Values are Similar

When it comes to the more important topics, your values tend to line up pretty closely with your friend’s values. This is regarding religious or political beliefs, as well as things like beliefs on raising children.

Because of this similarity, it will be easy to discuss ideas about the world around you. It’ll also be easy to be in their company even when the conversation shifts to a serious topic. Keep in mind that you may disagree on minor things, but the most critical issues will be similar.

2. You’re Always Learning From Your Kindred Spirit

Part of having a kindred connection is that you learn from one another. They will give you new perspectives on life, and you will do the same for them. You will always help each other grow and move forwards positively.

One of the reasons you can both learn from one another so quickly is because of the similarities you share. Your matching energy allows you to learn from them and to receive information, helping you to become a better you.

The things you learn from your friend will be ones that you remember for the rest of your life. Each moment you spend with them, you’ll be gaining meaningful insights. Plus, things you were confused about will begin to make sense.

3. You Share a Mutual Respect

In this friendship, you always feel respected. Likewise, your friend still feels respected by you. Even when you don’t agree on something, you’ll both be respectful during the discussion. This is partly due to the deep level of understanding you have of one another.

Having this mutual respect also means respecting one another’s boundaries and accepting their flaws. You can’t just pretend the differences don’t exist, but you can continue to show respect and support.

4. You Have Matching Energies

As mentioned before, but it’s essential to explain it in more detail. You are likely on the same energy frequency as your friend, meaning they will spark your spirit. Despite the length of the friendship, matching energies will make you feel like you’ve known them forever.

To explain matching energies in more detail, it means that you are both exhibiting the same strength. With a kindred spirit, the vibe is always positive and supportive. On the other hand, you can also match angry, loving, or sad energies, as well as any different feeling.

This is why you draw close to people who are similar to you. You attract what you put forth, and you are attracted to others with your same vibe. In return, when you exhibit these positive qualities, you are more likely to attract a kindred spirit as a friend.

5. A Kindred Spirit Brings Value to Your Life

When you have a connection like this, they will always bring value to your life. They will make you feel happy, and you will still enjoy spending time with them. When you are with them, you’ll feel relaxed, accepted, comforted, and like your life is meaningful.

6. You Know Each Other’s Needs Without Speaking

Even without seeing one another, you may know something is wrong with your friend. Likewise, they may see when you need some support or comfort.

When you can see them, you’ll be able to read their body language to know that they need something. Sometimes, they’ll try to explain something while you are present, and you know they mean something completely different. They will be this person for you, too, knowing what you mean and what you need.

7. They Are Always Honest with You, and You with Them

When you are connected to someone on this level, you are always honest with each other. You won’t have to worry about them lying to you, because they always tell the truth.

Another thing you won’t have to worry about is losing the friendship when you are frank with them. They appreciate and want honesty, no matter what the situation is.

Whether you are wondering how an outfit looks or you want their opinion on something else, they will tell you. They don’t want to hurt your feelings if they say something you didn’t want to hear, but they respect you enough always to be on the up-and-up.

In return, they will expect you to do the same for them. It leads to further understanding and comfort between the two of you. This quality is always present during a kindred connection.

8. You Don’t Judge Each Other

Since judgment comes from misunderstanding people, you don’t have to worry about it here. In this type of relationship, you understand each other so well that there is no judgment.

You will be able to relax and be yourself without the worry of being judged. This allows for happiness and a sense of well-being, which is something everyone needs in their lives. You can show all of your weird characteristics, and be honest about what you like and don’t like.

Even when you have made a mistake or did something silly, your friend won’t judge you. They will likely be the one who is there to help you through this time, not the one judging you. Because of this, you will always feel supported and wanted.

9. They Always Have Your Back

No matter the situation, your friend will have your back through it all. It won’t matter what time of day it is or what the circumstances are. They will be there for you. They will help you through your problems and help you find a solution.

They will stand up for you when the situation requires it, and they won’t let anyone do you wrong. You can always feel sure that you have someone to support you and be there for you no matter what.

10. You Are Comfortable With One Another

This comfort that you feel when you are with your friend is something you should cherish. You can be yourself without worry, and they can do the same. Unwinding at the end of a long day will be comfortable with them, as they won’t expect you to entertain.

If you aren’t in the mood to talk but still want to spend time, that’s fine, too. You will be so comfortable with this person that silences will not be awkward or uncomfortable. No one will feel the need for small talk or empty words.

On the other hand, there will be times when you can talk for hours at a time. You won’t run out of things to talk about when you are in the mood to communicate.

You will feel so comfortable with them that you’ll feel like you’ve known them forever. This comes from the fact that you don’t have to explain yourself or your past to them. They just get you, even if they weren’t there for all of your life events.

Final Thoughts on Signs Your New Friend Is a Kindred Spirit

Having a friend who is a kindred spirit is something that not everyone will experience in their lifetime. If you have this person in your life, cherish them and show them how much they matter to you. Your bestie deserves to know how much you love them and how much you value your relationship.

When you have a kindred spirit in your life, you’ll know it based on the signs explained above. You’ll feel comfortable with them, have similar values, and they’ll always have your back. They will also always be honest with you, encourage and support you, and they’ll respect you no matter what.

All of those signs and the many others that mentioned will allow you to recognize this person. You probably already understood the deeper relationship you share with them. Now, these signs have confirmed your thoughts that this is something more unique.

9 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Hypnosis

August 8, 2020 by Sarah Barkley

Many people are surprised to learn the many benefits of hypnosis to help them live a better life.

In the 18th century, a German physician named Franz Mesmer discovered that he could alter his patients’ state of consciousness and retrain their thought processes. Hypnosis wasn’t named until the 19th century, though, when James Braid began to practice it. While it isn’t as widely practiced in current times, the benefits of hypnosis are still prevalent and are gaining popularity.

Hypnosis patients enter an entranced state as if sleeping peacefully, but they still have some awareness. As patients enter a trance-like state, hypnosis helps increase focus using mental imagery and verbal repetition. It can help people become calm and relaxed while also helping them gain control of their life.

Hypnosis can help with changes in perceptions, thoughts, sensations, or behaviors. Additionally, there are many other benefits of hypnosis that can help your physical and mental wellbeing. You shouldn’t let just anyone hypnotize you, though, as finding a trained and licensed healthcare professional is the most effective and safest option.

Hypnotherapy can successfully treat a variety of ailments. The American Psychological Association describes it as a clinical procedure to use along with other treatments. It helps you become more open to suggestions and discussion and can help you overcome certain conditions.

Nine Science-Backed Health Benefits of Hypnosis

Here are a few health issues hypnosis can help.

1. Hypnosis Helps Improve Your Sleep

Around 25 percent of adults in the United States struggle with insomnia, but hypnotherapy can help. It can help you let go of the things that keep you up at night and help you relax into a peaceful mindset. Additionally, hypnosis can help with other sleep problems too.

If you want to sleep better or increase the amount of time you sleep for, hypnotism can help you. Researchers measured the brain activity of a group of people that listened to hypnotic suggestions and a group that listened to neutral text. The results showed that those who listened to the hypnosis experienced more time in the deep, restorative sleep phase.

Without enough high-quality sleep, it can impair your decision-making and memory. It can also lead to health conditions like heart disease, depression, or obesity. Using hypnosis to help overcome insomnia can improve your overall health long-term.

2. Hypnosis Helps Relieve Anxiety

Studies from the American Psychiatric Association show that anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders in America. Anxiety can be debilitating, so finding a way to ease the symptoms is essential to living a fulfilling life.

When you’re in a hypnotic state, your levels of tension and fear dissipate. It will help you let go of thoughts and feelings that increase your anxiety symptoms. Hypnosis stimulates your ability to naturally relax by lowering your blood pressure, slowing your breathing, and promoting an overall sense of well-being.

Hypnosis can help identify the root of your anxiety, making it easier for you to overcome. If you struggle with a phobia, hypnosis can help relieve those feelings, too. Being hypnotized can help you adjust your expectations so that you can minimize the fear and phobia.

3. Hypnosis Helps Relieve IBS Symptoms

Studies show that using hypnotherapy to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) significantly and quickly improved symptoms. Since stress worsens IBS symptoms and hypnosis reduces stress and anxiety, it helps prevent flare-ups. Hypnosis not only helps relax you, but it also helps you subconsciously learn to control your symptoms.

A study of people with IBS yielded results showing that more than 70% of participants reported improved symptoms after hypnotherapy treatment. Many years later, participants were asked for an update and, of the ones who gave one, 81% continued to have less severe symptoms.

IBS is uncomfortable and can be debilitating if it gets bad enough. The primary and secondary symptoms are sometimes just as bad as the IBS itself. Using hypnotherapy to find relief will help you physically and mentally. Plus, it will save you money on doctors’ visits and other treatment methods.

4. Hypnosis Help Ease Chronic Pain

People with chronic pain from health conditions like arthritis, cancer, sickle cell disease, or fibromyalgia can find relief in hypnosis. Even those with chronic back pain, migraines, or other debilitating pain can alleviate the feeling with hypnotherapy. As one of the many benefits of hypnosis, easing chronic pain can help you live a more fulfilling life.

Pain can stop you from experiencing new things and getting out in the world, so alleviating it will make a difference. Hypnosis will help you gain more self-control and pain tolerance, making it easier to manage. As an all-natural remedy, hypnosis can replace a prescription of over-the-counter pain killers for your pain, and the benefits last longer, too.

5. Hypnosis Can Help You Quit Smoking

If you want to quit smoking, hypnosis can help. For hypnotherapy to work, you must want to quit smoking. Hypnosis for smoking cessation can help you quit in a couple of different ways.

The first way that hypnosis helps you stop smoking is to help you find a healthy replacement. Once the healthy replacement has been identified, hypnosis will guide your subconscious toward the habit. Then, when you would once crave a cigarette, you will now crave something healthy like a walk or a glass of water.

The second way that hypnosis helps you stop smoking is by training your mind to associate it with undesirable feelings. You might think of the bad taste of cigarettes or the foul odor it leaves on your clothes and hair. Associating smoking with these negative feelings will stop your urge to smoke.

6. Hypnosis Can Aid In Weight Loss

If you’re eating healthy and exercising but still not losing weight, hypnosis can make a difference. Studies show that when people add hypnotherapy to their diet and exercise plan, they lost weight faster than others. This research proves that weight loss begins in the mind as gaining control over your thought process improves results.

Hypnotherapy focuses your attention, and you become more likely to change your behavior. This behavior change includes eating healthier, resisting unhealthy cravings, and exercising more often. Plus, it will help you avoid overeating as you become more mindful of how much food you take in.

Medical hypnosis isn’t a replacement for a healthy diet or exercise regime, however. You must use it along with a healthy lifestyle to see the results.

7. Hypnosis Can Help Relieve Hot Flashes

Studies show that women who experienced hot flashes reported 74 percent fewer episodes over 12 weeks after starting hypnotherapy. On the other hand, women who used other treatment methods only experienced around a 17 percent decrease. This difference shows how much more effective hypnosis is for relief from hot flashes, making it one of the leading remedies.

Since hot flashes can interfere with your quality of life, finding a way to control them is essential. They can negatively impact your sleep quality and wake you up often throughout the night. Plus, they can make you uncomfortable during events and gatherings, ruining the fun you should be having.

Getting the hot flashes under control can improve your overall wellbeing and help you feel more energetic. Plus, you won’t experience irritability from the hot flashes as often, either.

8. Hypnosis Reduces Stress

If you experience high stress levels, you might have a strong desire to find inner peace. Hypnosis can help with this, as it reduces your stress levels and brings feelings of serenity.

Hypnotherapy can help you become aware of your suppressed emotions, allowing you to free the negative feelings. Once you know the root of your stress, you can focus on alleviating the issues and living a calmer life.

You will also develop better coping skills as you move away from your suffering. Once you begin to let go of these emotions, you will experience a sense of balance and tranquility in your life. Hypnosis can benefit your health as it helps you change negative mental habits, detrimental thinking, and unhelpful obsessions.

9. Hypnosis May Treat Depression

Depression can leave you feeling helpless or lonely, obstructing your path to happiness. Entering a hypnotic state can help you gain control over these feelings, though. It can help you eliminate negative energy in your body, and it can change your mindset.

Hypnotherapy will help determine the cause of your depression and allow you to work through the underlying issues. You will learn to live in the moment rather than ruminating about the past or worrying about the future.

Hypnosis can also help you increase your emotional intelligence. As you gain intelligence, you will have more strength to overcome your depression and work towards healing.

Final Thoughts on Science-Backed Health Benefits of Hypnosis

If there is anything in your life that you would like to change but struggle with, hypnosis might help. The effectiveness of hypnosis depends on the individual seeking treatment. With the extensive health benefits of hypnosis, it’s worth looking into and trying. You can overcome bad habits, live a healthier life, and experience an improved sense of wellbeing.

Use hypnotherapy to gain control over your life, including your emotions and willpower. Knowing the many health benefits of hypnosis can help you feel confident and keep an open mind as you begin your first hypnotherapy session.

12 Red Flags that Someone has FOMO (fear of missing out)

August 8, 2020 by Power of Positivity

FOMO, or the fear of missing out, is an authentic feeling that many people experience. You may find yourself saying yes to things you didn’t want to simply because you didn’t want to miss out. If this has happened to you, then you know the feeling.

Many red flags may indicate someone has FOMO. Keep in mind that just because someone has one of two of the symptoms doesn’t mean they have this problem. The more signs they have, however, the more likely it is that they are suffering from this mental issue.

Red Flags that Someone has FOMO (fear of missing out)

Before getting into it and discussing the signs of FOMO, it’s important to mention that a person can overcome this fear. If you or someone you know has this problem, there are ways to get past it. Not letting the feeling control your life is essential.

1. They are Always on Their Phone

People who suffer from this may spend quite a bit of time on their phones. They will continuously spend their time texting and scrolling through social media, even when they’ve already read every update. Knowing who everyone is dating or what is going on in other people’s lives will be essential to them.

They tend to stare at their phone while walking in a crowded space while also working slowly. Even if a person with FOMO bumps into something, these folks may not put their phone away. This habit leads to absentmindedness, forgetfulness, and a disconnect from the present world.

2. Uncomfortable Being Home Alone

While some people bask in alone time at home, not everyone does. If someone worries that they are missing out, they’ll be anxious and uncomfortable alone at home.

This reason is why they tend to go to the first event they can find. Those with FOMO always have to be somewhere fun and doing something with their friends. Otherwise, they may miss out on inside jokes or photo opportunities.

3. People with FOMO Photograph Everything

If they photograph everything they eat, drink, wear, or do, they may worry about being left out. They will post everything to Snapchat or Instagram, no matter how insignificant it is. A typical cup of coffee will make the social media cut for them, just like every other mundane experience.

4. Watches Every Episode of a Television Show Right Away

Even if they have other things to get done, they’ll still watch newly released movies or television shows. This is because they want to be in on conversations about it right away. They’ll feel like they’ve missed out if they can’t participate in the discussions.

5. Overly-Full Social Calendar

One of the red flags is that the person has a social calendar that is packed full. They’ll even still try to find other events to add to their plan. If they can’t find something to do right away, they’ll spend excess time trying to find a part or function to attend.

6. Worries That They are Missing Out, Even When Doing Something Else

Even when they are having fun and enjoying their time, they’ll be worried about missing out. These folks will think about what everyone else is doing and wonder if they could be having more fun somewhere else.

7. They Constantly Check Their Email

Staying connected is a habit of theirs. They will check their personal and work emails continuously, even if they are on vacation. Missing out on something or not knowing what is going on at every moment is a massive fear of theirs.

8. Backup Plans for Relationships

Those who worry about missing out may have back up plans for relationships. They will be worried about wanting or needing a relationship and not having someone. Having someone they can always call on or go to for companionship is vital to them.

9. Going Places That are Unenjoyable

People who worry about missing out will go places that they don’t like, just to say that they were there. They may also go there with people they don’t enjoy spending time with. Generally, they will go anywhere, with anyone, just to be sure they aren’t missing out on something exciting.

10. They Don’t Say No

Those who worry about missing out always accept an invite. Even if the person has prior responsibilities, they’ll put things off if something better comes up. They may have to wake up early for work, and they will still stay out at a party or bar.

Another thing they’ll never say no about is traveling. They may not be able to afford a trip, and they will still rack up debt on their credit cards. If they don’t have credit cards, they may spend money intended for bills so that they don’t miss out.

11. They Go to Parties or Events Even When They are Sick

Most people would stay at home if they weren’t feeling well, but not people who worry about missing out. Nothing will stop them from going out and having a good time, not even the flu. They may be coughing, have a fever, or also have body aches, and they’ll still show up at the party.

12. They Spend Money When They Can’t Afford To

They may not have extra money, but they won’t let that stop them, either. Their fear is so severe that they will put themselves in debt to do what everyone else is doing. This involves going to expensive bars and restaurants, or going on unplanned and unbudgeted trips.

This could lead to financial ruin for them, and perhaps even losing their home or other investments. Their bills will go unpaid, but they still won’t turn down an invite.

How to Overcome the Fear of Missing Out

Since this fear is all too real and it can ruin lives, it’s essential to learn to overcome it. Even if it doesn’t ruin daily living, it can still make things complicated and can negatively impact their mental health. Plus, it can lead to unhappiness because there is always a sense of missing something.

Learn When to Say No, and Don’t Feel Bad About It

Saying no can be hard when you are worried about letting other people down. It can also be hard when you are concerned about missing out.

Try to remind yourself that there will be other events that you can attend. This isn’t the last time your friends will go out, and it isn’t the last time you’ll be invited somewhere.

Think of what else you have to do or what your other responsibilities are. If you have other plans that evening, don’t ditch them because something better comes along. Likewise, if you have to work early the next morning, make a responsible choice to stay in.

When it comes to finances, make sure you always know how much spending money you have. If the spending money isn’t there, simply stay in and enjoy a night at home. Your bills and well-being should take priority over going to events.

Avoid Social Media and Texting

When you choose to stay home, avoid triggering yourself. If you give in and scroll through the social media timelines, you’ll just upset yourself.

Determine a block of time that would be most beneficial to disconnect. If the events you usually attend are between the hours of 10:00 and 2:00, turn your phone off then. Likewise, if the timeframe falls between 6:00 and 11:00, choose that as your time to disconnect.

Reward Yourself

Forcing yourself to stay in when you think you’ll be missing out can be hard. If you achieve this goal, reward yourself with a fun night out with friends.

Plan a day when going out or going to an event will work in your schedule. Remember also to make sure you’ll have the extra money to go out. It’ll be easier for you to stay home if you have something fun to look forward to.

Have Fun at Home

If you know you’ll be staying at home when others are going out, make it fun for yourself. This will make it easier when you begin thinking about your friends and wondering what they are up to.

Pick up your favorite snacks or treats, choose a favorite movie, and relax. You can invite some of your friends over who are also willing to stay in, too.

You could play games or work on your favorite hobby. Whatever you choose to do, just make sure it’s something you genuinely enjoy.

Final Thoughts on Red Flags that Someone has FOMO (fear of missing out)

The signs that someone has FOMO are easy to recognize if you know what you’re looking for. Remember, one or two of these signs doesn’t indicate the fear of missing out. Letting the symptoms control your life or having many of the red flags is indicative, however.

Learn to enjoy being home by yourself or with a couple of friends. Don’t let the feeling of missing out rule your life and your decisions. Once you can recognize the signs, it’ll be easier to address them and overcome the problem.

12 Fun Agua Fresca Recipes For Better Hydration

August 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

When the summer heat is on, it’s easy to become dehydrated. Do you want to serve your family a refreshing alternative to sugary sodas? Why not try the traditional Mexican beverage called agua fresca, meaning freshwater?

12 Refreshing Agua Fresca Recipes to Enjoy

The drink is easy to make in a blender or food processer with some of your favorite berries, cantaloupe, and tropical fruits. Feel free to experiment and create unique blends that you and your family will enjoy. Try these 12 simple and tasty recipes for agua fresca.

1. Strawberry Paradise Agua Fresca

What You Need:

3 C. organic strawberries, hulled and cut in half
2 C. fresh pineapple chunks
5 C. cold purified water
1 Large lime, juiced
1 C. sugar

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, add 1 cup of water and stir in the sugar. Simmer until mixture is warm and the sugar has dissolved – about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside to cool.

2. In the jar of a blender on high speed, add strawberries and pineapple and puree until smooth. Pour the puree through a fine sieve to filter out the seeds and pulp.

3. Stir lime juice and the remaining water into the puree until blended. Add about one-half cup simple syrup to puree or more to taste, and stir until mixed. Cover and refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight. Serve over crushed ice with extra strawberries and lemon balm garnishes if you like.

2. Refreshing Blackberry Cooler

What You Need:

1 Pint fresh organic blackberries rinsed well
1 Quart sparkling water
One Small bunch of fresh mint leaves, cleaned well
One-forth C. fine sugar
6 C. crushed ice

Directions:

1. In a half-gallon pitcher, add berries water, herb leaves, and sugar.

2. Stir well until sugar is dissolved. Add ice and stir again. Pour into tall glasses rimmed with sugar and serve.

3. Sunrise Agua Fresca

What You Need:

One-half fresh papaya, peeled, de-seeded, and cubed
2 Large limes, one juiced and one thinly sliced into wheels
2 Cups purified water
1 Cup seltzer water
1 Cup fresh organic red raspberries

Directions:

1. In the bowl of a food processor on high speed, add papaya and puree until smooth. Use a spatula to scrape down the sides of the bowl for so no lumps remain.

2. In a fine-mesh strainer, add the puree and use a spatula to push it through, discarding leftover fiber.

3. In a 1-quart glass pitcher, add puree and lime juice and stir well. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

4. Fill four glasses with crushed ice and divide the mixture evenly. Pour one-fourth cup of seltzer in each glass and garnish with berries and lemon wheels.

4. Roseberry Chia Chill

What You Need:

4 C. chilled purified water
1 C. fresh mixed berries of your choice
2 Teabags rosehip herbal tea
3 Tbsp. raw honey
2 Tbsp. raw chia seeds

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan over medium-high heat, add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.

2. Remove from heat, add tea bags, and set aside to brew about 20 minutes.

3. Remove and discard tea bags and stir in remaining chilled water.

4. In a jar of a blender on high speed, add tea, berries, and honey and puree until smooth.

5. Pour through a fine-mesh strainer and discard pulp.

6. Pour mixture into a glass pitcher and stir in chia seeds.

7. Refrigerate until chilled well, about 2 hours.

8. Divide the agua fresca evenly among four glasses that are filled with crushed ice.

9. Garnish with extra berries if you want.

5. Watermelon Delight

What You Need:

1 Medium watermelon, peeled, de-seeded, and chopped to make at least 6 cups
3 Medium limes, two juiced and 1 cut into wedges
1 C. cold purified water
1 Small bunch lemon balm or spearmint

Directions:

1. In the jar of a blender on high-speed, add watermelon, juice, and water and puree until smooth.

2. Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain pulp and seeds to discard. Pour mixture into a glass pitcher, add herb leaves and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Add crushed ice to the pitcher and serve with lime wedge garnishes.

6. Quick Kiwi Cooler

What You Need:

8 Fresh organic kiwis, 7 peeled & quartered, one thinly sliced into wheels
8 C. chilled purified water
1 Tbsp. organic agave syrup, or to taste

Directions:

1. In the bowl of a food processor or blender on high speed, add kiwi, water, and agave and puree until smooth, about 20-30 seconds.

2. Divide mixture evenly among four glasses and serve with kiwi wheel garnishes.

7. Zesty Peach Agua Fresca

What You Need:

8 Large organic peaches, peeled & cut into quarters
5 C. chilled purified water
2 Tbsp. raw honey
2 Medium limes, juiced
3 Medium jalapenos, thinly sliced

Directions:

1. In the jar of a blender on high speed, add peaches, water, honey, and lime juice and puree until smooth.

2. Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain and discard pulp. Pour into a glass pitcher and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

3. To serve, divide the mixture into glasses filled with crushed ice and garnish with sliced jalapenos. If you dislike peppers, you can omit the jalapenos and garnish with lemon balm and peach wedges.

8. Mango Tango Fresca

What You Need:

4 C. fresh pineapple, diced
3 Large mangos, peeled & sliced
4 Cups chilled purified water
2 Tbsp. agave syrup
1 Large lime, juiced

Directions:

1. In the bowl of a food processor or blender on high speed.

2. Add pineapple, mango, and 2 cups of water and puree until smooth.

3. Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain and discard fruit pulp.

4. Stir in lime juice, agave syrup, and remaining water.

5. Pour into a glass pitcher and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

6. Serve over crushed ice with pineapple garnishes.

9. Cantaloupe Agua Fresca

What You Need:

2 Medium cantaloupes, peeled, de-seeded, and cut into chunks
3 C. cold purified water
2 Small limes, juiced
One-fourth cup organic honey or agave nectar
1 Little bunch of spearmint or lemon balm leaves

Directions:

1. In the jar of a blender on high speed, and cantaloupe and puree until smooth. Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain and discard the pulp to get about 5 cups of juice.

2. Pour mixture into a glass pitcher and stir in water, lime juice, and honey.

3. Chill for at least 1 hour or overnight.

4. Divide evenly among glasses filled with crushed ice and garnish with extra melon cubes, or lemon balm.

10. Honey, Dew You Love Raspberries

What You Need:

1 Large honeydew melon, peeled, de-seeded, and halved
4 C. cold purified water
One-fourth cup agave nectar, or to taste
4 Medium limes, juiced
2 C. fresh red raspberries

Directions:

1. Chop both halves of the melon into cubes and set one half aside.

2. In the bowl of a food processor on high speed, blend the melon into a puree, using a spatula to scrape down the sides as needed.

3. Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large bowl and pure the melon puree through it. Use the spatula to press the pulp to get as much juice as possible. Set aside. Repeat steps with the remaining melon half.

4. In a large glass pitcher, pour the strained melon juice and stir in water. In a small bowl, add lime juice and agave nectar and stir until dissolved.

5. Pour agave mixture into the melon juice and stir well. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Serve in glasses of crushed ice and fresh raspberries for garnish.

11. Lemon & Lime Cooler

What You Need:

3 Large lemons, 2 quartered and one thinly sliced into wheels
3 Large limes, 2 quartered and one thinly sliced into wheels
6 C. cold purified water
1 C. fine sugar

Directions:

1. In the jar of a blender on high speed, add the lemon quarters and 1 cup of water.
2. Blend for 2-3 seconds.

3. Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain the juice into a large glass pitcher and set aside.

4. Discard or compost the lemon pulp.

5. Add lime quarters to the blender and repeat the process with 1 cup of water.

6. Stir sugar into the juice with the remaining 4 cups of water. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

8. Serve in glasses of crushed ice with lemon and lime wheels for garnish.

12. Dragon Fruit Tropical Twister

What You Need:

1 Medium ripe dragon fruit, roughly chopped
One-forth ripe mango, roughly chopped
3 C. cold purified water
2 Tbsp. agave nectar
3 Medium limes, one juiced and two thinly sliced into wheels
One-fourth cup kosher salt

Directions:

1. In the jar of a blender on high speed, add dragon fruit, mango, and ½ cup of water and blend until smooth.

2. Use a fine-mesh strainer to strain the puree into a large glass pitcher, discarding or composting pulp.

3. Stir in the remaining water, sugar, lime juice, and agave nectar. Keep stirring until sugar is dissolved.

4. To serve, rub lime wedge on the rims of Margherita glasses and dip in salt. Add crushed ice and fill with fruit mixture. Garnish with lime wheels if you like.

Final Thoughts on Mixing Some Delicious Agua Fresca for Excellent Hydration

This summer, nix the syrupy soda and alcoholic beverages. Instead, enjoy a tropical twist that keeps your hydrated naturally. Any of these agua fresca recipes can be made ahead of time and kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. They are a healthy and delicious way to quench your thirst using natures bounty like cantaloupe, mint, and fresh berries.

Experts Reveal 4 Healthy Ways To Boost Immunity

August 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

When viruses have been going around your community, country, or even the world, it can be nerve-wracking to try and avoid catching it. This is where your immune system comes into play. If your immunity is weak, your chances of contracting a virus and experiencing further complications from it increase.

But how can you ensure that your immune system is up to the task of defending you? Here’s how experts reveal four healthy ways to boost immunity, as well as lots of advice about how to go about upholding these methods.

Try these easy suggestions to boost your immunity.

1. Exercise

When you exercise, you experience a burst of inflammation that causes the body’s process of homeostasis to become disrupted. This statement sounds like a negative thing, but this is good, according to the University of Pennsylvania’s Institute for Immunology director John Wherry, Ph.D. It’s positive inflammation – the kind that resets the body’s processes and gets it back up to shape.

Research has found that exercising is capable of increasing T cell production. T cells refer to white blood cells that destroy harmful components in the body and keep it safe. On top of that, exercising can reduce the production of cortisol, a stress hormone that boosts inflammation. But how can you exercise to gain these benefits? According to experts, here are a few ideas:

· Be Consistent

According to a certified practitioner and osteopathic physician Lisa Ballehr, DO, regular exercise on a moderate level allows for the faster building of immunity, as it teaches your body to recover quickly from exercise without the need to strain yourself. Get between 20 to 30 minutes of consistent movement per day!

· Move At Least A Little Every Hour

Set the alarm once per hour. When that alarm rings, get up and do a little movement, says registered dietitian Jenn Randazzo. This reminder can be as taxing as going for a run or as simple as doing a few yoga poses or pacing around the room.

· Go For Walks

Just going for a walk at a moderate pace can work wonders for your body and give it the exercise it needs, according to board-certified physical therapist Kristen Gasnick

· Try Using A Fitness Band

Royal London Hospital emergency physician Ian Braithwaite, MD, recommends the use of a fitness band or similar tracker if you’re trying to stay active. Based on the statistics the device collects, you can adjust your daily exercise routine accordingly.

· Sign Up For Events

It can often be more comfortable to feel motivated to follow a training regimen when you have a goal to strive for. Columbia University Medical Center critical care cardiologist Jennifer Haythe, MD, recommends giving yourself a challenge whenever you feel like you’re slipping out of your usual workouts.

· Don’t Overtrain

Overdoing exercise can lead to downsides for your immunity. It’s perfectly fine – and even healthy – to take rest days, to go easy on your routine when you still have muscle soreness, and to know when you need a break. If you just don’t feel like exercising, then yes, push yourself to do it. But if your body isn’t prepared to strain itself, then take it slow, says certified personal trainer Kym Niles.

2. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is crucial to healthy bodily functions. It’s necessary to get at least seven hours of sleep per night, and a vast majority of experts agree that rest is the primary determinant of the body’s immunity, according to Wherry.

When you’re awake, all the normal bodily processes that you go through incur inflammation. They’re not bad on their own, but if you don’t sleep to allow your body to rest, the inflammation can be overwhelming. According to assistant professor and chief of the clinical immunology and allergy division at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine, Rita Kachru, MD, sleep allows the body to take a break from the inflammation and “reset”.

Research has seen these results proven. Those who sleep for six hours or fewer per night have a much higher risk of developing a cold. When exposed to a virus, they catch the virus at four times higher frequency than those who sleep for seven hours or more. Here are some ways to maintain a good, immunity-boosting sleep schedule, according to experts:

· Have Consistent Wake And Sleep Times

According to Barnard College of Columbia University’s assistant professor of neuroscience and behavior and sleep researcher María de la Paz Fernández, Ph.D., committing to waking and sleeping at the same time each evening, including the weekends, helps your body get into the right groove with its circadian rhythm.

· Set A Good Temperature

Set the temperature in your bedroom to be a little cooler than average to promote better sleep, says Sleep for Success! Co-author and sleep researcher Rebecca Robbins, Ph.D. This is particularly true if you tend to sleep warm.

· Go Outside In The Mornings

The light from the morning sun can help your body correctly set its internal clock to the right time. Lighting Research Center director and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute architecture professor Mariana Figueiro, Ph.D., states that just 30 minutes spent outside in the morning can help your circadian rhythm.

· Eat Magnesium At Night

Foods rich in magnesium are great additions to your dinner, says registered dietitian and nutritionist Mikka Knapp. Magnesium promotes relaxation in your brain and throughout the body, allowing for more restful sleep. Nuts, spinach, and beans are good sources of magnesium.

Doctors reveal habits that cause you to lose sleep at night.

3. Eat A Better Diet

What you eat can wind up largely, determining your body’s overall health. For a strong immunity, you’ll want to eat foods that bolster that strength. Here are some examples:

· Eat More Plant Foods

Plant-based and whole plant foods, such as legumes, vegetables, fruits, seeds, and nuts, are packed with nutrients that help the body fight harmful microorganisms. They’re also packed with antioxidants, which mostly bring down levels of inflammation and fight free radicals for overall positive effects. On top of all of that, plant-based meals are packed with fiber that fosters good gut bacteria, further boosting your immunity by protecting your digestive tract from pathogens.

· Reduce Sugar Intake

Added sugars in food can be linked to higher rates of obesity or general overweight stature. In turn, obesity can lead to lowered immunity. A study conducted on a thousand individuals found that obese people were two times more likely to develop influenza after receiving a flu vaccine. Besides, added sugars worsen inflammation in the body, increasing the risk of multiple diseases. It’s an excellent idea to keep your sugar intake below 5% of your daily intake of total calories.

· Eat More Vitamin C

Studies have found that consuming between 1,000 to 2,000 mg of this vitamin per day can reduce the risk of developing colds by up to 8% in adults.

· Get More Vitamin D

If you’re deficient in this vitamin, you could be worsening your risk of getting sick. Do note, though, that if you already get enough of the vitamin, further supplementing your consumption won’t offer much help, say studies.

· Eat More Healthy Fats

It’s common knowledge that healthy fats, specifically omega-3 fatty acids, are godsends when it comes to fighting inflammation. But that’s not where their positive effects end; they’re also known for reducing chronic disease risk, fighting viruses, and more. You can get healthy fats from salmon, olive oil, and other omega-3s.

· Eat More Zinc

Research has found that, when experiencing the common cold, consuming more zinc can lead to a remarkable reduction in the duration of the illness, cutting the duration by a third.

· Eat More Probiotics

Probiotics, usually present in fermented foods such as kimchi, yogurt, natto, sauerkraut, and natto, fill your digestive tract with positive bacteria. According to many studies, when gut bacteria is healthy and abundant, the immune system can better differentiate between beneficial bacteria and the bad ones, allowing for better immunity.

4. Manage Your Stress

Whenever your body experiences stress, your body releases a hormone called cortisol, which is primarily responsible for the body’s fight-or-flight responses. When produced in a balanced amount, it’s a useful and helpful mechanism. When produced on a prolonged or chronic level, however, it will harm you more than help you.

High cortisol production leads to a depleted immune system, according to the University of Manchester’s professor of immunology Daniel M. Davis, Ph.D. This is because your body focuses on keeping the body safe and can’t devote all its positive resources to immunity. This is fine in emergencies but very bad on a long-term basis.

Struggling to find ways to cope with your stress better, so your cortisol levels balance out? Here are some ideas from experts:

· Focus On Goals

If you start to feel stressed out, it’s time to take things one step at a time. Focus on your daily goals or tasks for the day and go about them one by one instead of worrying about the full scale of the work you have to do. Basically, keep your sights trained on winning the day, says Innovation360 executive director and clinical psychologist Kevin Gilliland, PsyD.

· Stay Grateful

Psychologist Joy Lere is a proponent of the idea that gratitude can provide impressive effects on positive thinking, and she’s right; being grateful can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, according to studies.

· Stay In The Present

If worrying about the future increases your stress levels, it’s time to take a deep breath, stop, and focus on positivity. Do not let yourself get suckered into an endless cycle of fear and anxiety, warns clinical psychologist Beatrice Tauber Prior, PsyD. Focus on the good events happening in the present and pay attention to fixing the bad things in the present, too.

· Tell Someone Your Secrets

If there are people you trust in your life, confess some of your secrets to them, or even speak to a therapist. If you can’t, use an anonymous confession website or application, or write about your secret somewhere that your identity is unknown. Secret-keeping can cause increased production of cortisol, says Dalhousie University psychiatry resident Patricia Celan, MD.

Final Thoughts On Some Healthy Ways To Boost Immunity

Maintaining a robust immune system can be as simple as exercising, eating well, sleeping well, and managing stress with positive thinking. In other words, if you lead a vigorous and healthy lifestyle, you stand a much higher chance of warding off viruses. So focus on keeping your body happy and healthy, and your immunity will do the rest of the work for you!

Dietitians Explain The Best Lycopene Rich Foods To Eat Daily

August 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Lycopene, a type of carotenoid that gives fruits and vegetables their red and pink color, contains many antioxidants that can protect against heart disease and certain cancers. You can find this powerful nutrient in foods such as tomatoes, watermelons, and pink grapefruits. These fruits have distinctive deep red and pink colors indicative of lycopene.

Antioxidants found in this nutrient can protect the body from harmful compounds called free radicals, which create oxidative stress in the body. This stress can lead to chronic diseases such as heart disease, Alzheimer’s, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.

Researchers have found that the antioxidants in lycopene can help reduce free radicals found in the body, which improves blood circulation and oxygen levels. Some studies have even found that this carotenoid can protect the body from damage caused by harmful toxins such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), pesticides, herbicides, and certain types of fungi.

In the U.S., 85% of lycopene comes from tomato products such as sauce, paste, ketchup, or tomato juice. A serving of fresh tomatoes contains between 4 and 10mg of lycopene. One cup of tomato juice contains about 20mg.

Processing tomatoes using heat actually changes the structure of the lycopene. This transformation makes it easier for the body to absorb. Below, we’ll go over a few reasons why you should include this powerful nutrient in your diet. Finally, we will share the fruits and vegetables highest in this carotenoid.

Here are the reasons why you should eat more lycopene:

Over 40? Here are the healthiest foods you must include on your menu.

It may ward off certain types of cancer.

Lycopene may help slow down the formation of certain types of cancer, such as breast and prostate cancers. One study found that it can limit tumor growth in these specific types of cancers. Animal studies have shown that it can also prevent cancer progression in the kidneys. In human studies, researchers have found that consuming high levels of carotenoids, including those found in lycopene may lower the risk of developing lung and prostate cancers by 32-50%.

Also, another comprehensive 23-year study in over 46,000 men found a strong link between those who consumed large amounts of lycopene and lower risk of prostate cancer. Men who had at least two servings of tomato sauce per week had a 30% lower chance of developing prostate cancer. That number is in comparison to those who ate less than one serving of tomato sauce a month. Another study found that those who ate fruits and vegetables high in lycopene had a significantly lower risk of developing lung cancer.

However, research into lycopene’s effect on cancer cells remains in its infancy. Fortunately, the results so far look promising.

Lycopene can protect against heart disease.

Lycopene may help lower your risk of developing or dying early from heart disease by reducing free radical damage. It can also reduce LDL cholesterol levels and increase good or HDL cholesterol in the body. Another study found that over ten years, people with a metabolic disease who had high levels of lycopene in their blood lowered their risk of premature death by up to 39%. Metabolic syndrome can lead to heart disease. Thus, eating more lycopene can reduce the risk of developing further heart problems.

Furthermore, in another 10-year study, people who consumed diets rich in this nutrient had a 17-26% lower risk of developing heart disease. A recent review found that high levels of lycopene in the blood correlated with a 31% lower risk of developing a stroke. Studies have found that the protective effects of lycopene prove especially helpful in those with low levels of antioxidants and high oxidative stress in the body. For instance, adults who smoke or have heart disease, diabetes, or cancer have all been shown to improve with high levels of lycopene.

Fruits and vegetables high in lycopene may protect against sunburns.

Because it lowers free radicals in the body, which come from the sun, lycopene can help reduce the effects of sunburn. In a small 12-week study, researchers exposed participants to UV rays before and after consuming either 16mg of lycopene from tomato paste or a placebo. The participants who had consumed tomato paste had much less skin damage due to UV exposure.

In another 12-week study, participants had reduced skin redness by 40-50% after being exposed to UV rays by consuming 8-16mg of lycopene daily, either from food or supplements. Researchers found that supplements produced a more significant effect because they contained a mix of lycopene and other carotenoid-rich nutrients. However, you should still use sunscreen when being exposed to the sun for long periods of time. These foods cannot replace the protection of sun lotions. A diet high in lycopene can reduce the harmful effects of UV rays, however.

Other possible benefits of lycopene

Lycopene may benefit your health in other significant ways, including the following:

May improve your vision: Lycopene may reduce your risk of macular degeneration, the number one cause of blindness in older adults. It can also prevent or delay the formation of cataracts.
May reduce pain: Lycopene may help reduce neuropathic pain, which results from tissue and nerve damage.
May improve brain health: Antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables high in lycopene may help prevent seizures and memory loss associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s.
May promote stronger bones: Lycopene’s high level of antioxidants may reduce the rate at which bone cells diminish, keep bones strong, and reinforce the bone structure.

However, all of these benefits have only been found in test-tube and animal research. Therefore, scientists must conduct further studies in humans before drawing firm conclusions.

Now we’ve talked about some of the main benefits of lycopene. So let’s discuss where you can find this powerful nutrient.

Here are the top 10 lycopene-rich foods:

Any fruits or vegetables that have a dark red or pink hue will contain some amount of lycopene. However, the following foods have the highest levels. Tomatoes contain the highest amounts of carotenoids. Indeed, the riper the fruit, the higher the nutrient levels.

These foods contain the most lycopene per 100 grams:

Sun-dried tomatoes: 45.9 mg
Tomato purée: 21.8 mg
Pasta sauce: 12.7 mg
Ketchup: 12.1 mg
Rosehips: 6.8 mg
Canned minestrone: 5.96 mg
Guava: 5.2 mg
Clam chowder: 5.11 mg
Watermelon: 4.5 mg
Fresh tomatoes: 3.0 mg

Other good sources of lycopene:

Canned tomatoes: 2.7 mg
Papaya: 1.8 mg
Pink grapefruit: 1.1 mg
Cooked sweet red peppers: 0.5 mg

The FDA doesn’t currently have daily recommended values for lycopene. However, most studies show that 8-21 mg has the most benefits for the body. As you can see from the list above, tomatoes and products containing tomatoes contain the most lycopene per 100 grams.

If you don’t want to eat large amounts of food with lycopene, you can opt for supplements as well. Of course, keep in mind that supplements may interact with medications you might take, such as blood thinners and medicine that lowers blood pressure. Also, a small study found that pregnant women taking around 2mg of lycopene per day may have a higher risk of preterm labor or low birth weight babies.

Not to mention, some research shows that humans may get more benefits from consuming lycopene in foods rather than from supplements. If you take medication or are pregnant, you can avoid these risks by eating foods listed above that have high amounts of lycopene.

Potential risks of overeating lycopene

In addition to the risks listed above, lycopene can lead to skin discoloration when eaten in large amounts. Known as lycopenodermia, lycopene can turn the skin orange due to large amounts of carotenoids present. However, this doesn’t happen in most cases. One study found that a man drinking 2 liters of tomato juice daily for several years had skin discoloration, but eliminating lycopene from the diet for a couple of weeks can reverse this condition.

Final thoughts about why you should eat lycopene-rich foods

A powerful antioxidant and carotenoid, eating fruits and vegetables high in lycopene, can provide many benefits such as reducing cancer and heart disease risk. Lycopene may protect against sunburns, improve vision and brain health, reduce pain, and promote stronger bones. Foods high in carotenoids include most tomato products such as sauces, pastes, purees, and sun-dried tomatoes. Also, ketchup, rosehips, guava, and watermelon contain high amounts of this nutrient.

You can also take this as a supplement. However, scientists clearly advise that most benefits occur from directly consuming it from foods. Minimal risk is associated with the consumption of fruits and vegetables containing this antioxidant. However, pregnant women and those taking certain medications should take caution. Plus, they must talk to a doctor before including lycopene in their diets. Keep in mind that large amounts of this carotenoid create the potential to alter skin color. But also note that most people will not drink or eat enough to worry about this issue.

We hope you may include more foods with lycopene in your diet. Science shows the powerful benefits this nutrient can have on human health.

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

High in vitamins and minerals

Could help you lose weight

May lower your cholesterol.

May improve heart health.

Antioxidants

Improve muscle damage due to exercise

High in fiber

It may ward off certain types of cancer.

Lycopene can protect against heart disease.

Fruits and vegetables high in lycopene may protect against sunburns.

Other possible benefits of lycopene

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!