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15 Hacks That Work Better Than Medicine for Anxiety

August 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

There’s nothing worse than an anxious feeling that cripples you with fear. For some, it’s an occurrence that happens occasionally, but for others, they live in a constant state of unrest as their body is in fight or flight mode continuously. If you’ve been to your doctor, you know that they want to put you on medications to control this mental health problem.

Unfortunately, many of the prescriptions used for General Anxiety Disorder come with side effects. One of the main problems is many of these drugs cause dependency issues. Thankfully, you don’t have to resort to padding big pharma’s pocket to get better. There are many ways that you can control your anxious feelings naturally.

Alternatives to Medicine for Anxiety

If you’ve struggled with your anxiety for any length of time, you will learn some coping skills or hacks. These little tips and tricks can help you get through stressful situations. Here are 15 things you can do to gain control over these anxious feelings without using medications.

1. Grab Some Ice

Grabbing a handful of ice when you’re feeling anxious might seem crazy, but it works. The same theory in this trick is why people cut for relief. The body is unable to process two different sensations at once.

When you hold ice in your hand, the cold nature is a shock to your system. The brain will focus on this sensation rather than your anxiety. It will almost immediately stop the angst you feel as the brain redirects its attention to the icy chill it feels.

People cut their skin to release anxiety because their body focuses on the pain and not the panic and terror they feel. The trick is to use something less harmful to get your mind off your anxious state.

2. Go Outside

Since the body is in fight-or-flight mode, it wants to go. Do you ever have panic attacks that make you want to run and get out of the situation you’re in? Many people can stop their angst by only going outside and taking a deep breath.

It’s incredible how much better you will feel when you breathe in Mother Nature’s goodness and expel all those negative energies holding you back. Who needs medicine for anxiety when you have nature on your side?

3. Drink Hot Coffee or Tea

Drinking something hot does similar things to the brain as holding ice. Grab a big cup of Joe and breathe in the aroma as you take small sips. The warm sensation pulsating through your body will get your mind off your anxiety and onto the fiery liquid, now rushing through your digestive tract.

4. Use Aromatherapy Oils

The use of essential oils in aromatherapy is quite rewarding for the mind. Did you know that by rubbing some lavender oil under your nose and breathing in that heavenly scent, you can get rid of anxiety?

These oils have a way of stimulating the brain to bring about calm. It would help if you experimented with a few of the most popular ones used for angst like lemon balm, valerian root, rosemary, peppermint, sage, patchouli, and ylang-ylang.

5. Journal

Do you ever feel like you just need to get out what’s eating you up on the inside? Why not journal your way to a calmer you? Who needs medicine for anxiety when you can journal out all that’s bothering you?

Write down all the things that are holding you back and keeping you down. It’s amazing how much calmer you can be when you release the negative feelings that are most likely behind your angst.

6. Use Breathing Techniques

One of the most powerful things a person suffering from anxiety can learn is how to do rhythmic breathing. Start by inhaling, holding your breath, and releasing it all to the count of seven. Doing a few repetitions of this will instantly calm you.

The key is that when many people are anxious, they don’t breathe right. When your body is deprived of oxygen, it can cause all sorts of problems. Thankfully, unlike medicine for anxiety, rhythmic breathing doesn’t come with any side effects and can be done anytime and anywhere.

7. Ground Yourself

Anxiety is a horrible feeling, and you need some robust mechanisms to ground yourself. Remember, your anxious state will cause you to think, perceive, and believe things that aren’t true. Take, for instance, being at a traffic light and surrounded by cars.

Your brain may tell you that if you drive forward, you will have a panic attack at the intersection and cause a wreck. The truth is that you are probably a particularly good driver, and you won’t wreck. The problem is that your mind is playing tricks on you.

No medicine for anxiety will give you the power to conquer things as it only masks the issue. It would help if you learned grounding techniques. To ground yourself, look at your surroundings.

Look around and say out loud five things that you see. Now, take your hands and recognize four things you can feel. What about three things you can hear, and finally, two things you can smell. When you get your mind busy on the grounding exercise, it will redirect it from the anxiety.

8. Take a Nap

Napping is a great coping skill for those who have anxiety. Your sleep is restorative, and it will help you to calm down. When you’re sleeping, your mind and body are resetting and repairing damage caused by life’s stresses.

Taking a nap is one of the best ways to treat anxiety. Chances are you will wake to feel much better. Plus, a little rest never hurt anyone.

9. Sit in the Sunshine

Once again, Mother Nature is the best way to combat anxiety. Do you know that many people who have Generalized Anxiety Disorder are often deficient in Vitamin D? This is, even more, a good reason to get outside and sit in the sun.

When you bask in the golden rays, you’re filling your body with the much-needed Vitamin D3. All you need is about 20 minutes in the sun to help with the anxiety and fill your vitamin deficiency.

10. Get Moving

Exercise is the key to managing anxiety. You naturally want to move about when you’re anxious, so use that extra energy for activity. As you’re running, your body is increasing the endorphins in your body to make you feel good?

Your brain’s chemicals are responsible for your anxiety levels. While many medicines for anxiety alter these neurotransmitters, you can do it naturally. Just 20 minutes of exercise three times a week can have a dramatic impact on your mental health.

11. Take a Hot Bath

When you’re in a heightened state of anxiety, your body becomes tense and feels the strain. There’s nothing more calming than a nice, hot bath. Light some candles around the tub and practice your rhythmic breathing while soaking.

Water therapy is something that everyone should invest in, as it’s so beneficial. Sit and relax for as long as you need. There’s nothing better than soaking away the cares of life.

12. Acknowledge the Anxiety

There are many great tips here, but one of the most beneficial things you can do to conquer your anxiety is to acknowledge it. Once you recognize what troubles you, then you can release it. For instance, imagine you’re sitting at a busy traffic intersection, afraid to move forward.

You should say out loud, “I know this is my anxiety, but nothing will happen to me if I go through this intersection.” When you switch roles and recognize that your fears are unfounded, then you take power over the things that often render you powerless.

13. Do Some Research

It’s best to be armed with knowledge. Since anxiety comes in many shapes and forms, you should know what to expect to understand how to handle it. For instance, stress can affect your gastrointestinal tracts as well as your muscles. When you know what’s causing your discomfort, then you can find ways to combat it.

14. Meditate Used Guided Imagery

Turn on meditation and kick back and relax. Allow someone to take you on a journey where you release your tensions. Meditation is a great way to learn breathing techniques, as well as how to deal with stressors. It’s one of the best medicines for anxiety that doesn’t cost a penny.

15. Hug Someone

Did you know that hugging someone for at least 20 seconds can be as powerful as taking an antidepressant? When you embrace someone, you are increasing the levels of oxytocin in your brain. It can help to improve your immune system as well as make your brain chemicals come into balance. Plus, hugging makes you feel amazing, and like you’re not alone in this world.

Final Thought: Don’t Let Anxiety Take Control

It’s easy to let panic and angst take control of your life. Don’t let stressful situations drive you mad. Some of the best medicines for anxiety comes in the way of tips and tricks to deal with it. Prescriptions only mask the problem, but you need to find effective coping mechanisms to stop it.

23 Useful Ways to Recycle Plastic Bags

August 7, 2020 by Lakeisha Ethans

There is no denying that plastic bags are convenient. Unfortunately, a majority of them have a single-use nature, which adds to the overall pollution caused by the prevalence of single-use plastics across the world.

If you want to help save the environment, there’s still hope. You can give them new life by collecting them after you shop prolong their usefulness through recycling.

Here are 23 incredibly useful ways to recycle plastic bags:

1. Reuse Plastic Bags While Traveling

If you’re going on a trip, bring along some of your still-usable plastic bags. They’re versatile and easy to adapt to all sorts of needs while you’re on the go. Here are some things you can use recycled plastic bags as:

· Trash Bin

When you’re eating snacks on a road trip, it’s easy to lose wrappers and packaging in the car as they scatter under the seats. This will attract bugs later on. Instead of putting trash aside to throw later, put them all into a single plastic bag. The bag fits easily into a glove compartment or hangs easily on a hook and will keep the mess contained.

· Laundry Bags

Plastic bags can serve as quick and easy bags to hold dirty clothes, wet swimsuits, and similar items. That way, your fresh clothes won’t get soiled, and you won’t have to deal with any odor for the time being. Given the fact that research shows bed bugs are attracted to dirty laundry, sealing away items that need to be washed can keep you from bringing these pesky creatures back as a souvenir from your trip.

· Detergent Packs

If you’re traveling for a longer amount of time, you may have to do some laundry while you’re out. Having to lug detergent along with you can be a pain, so use small plastic bags to pre-measure individual detergent load amounts.

Here are 22 reasons why you should swear off plastic bags.

· Motion Sickness Relief

If you or anyone in your traveling party have issues with motion sickness, you can use a plastic bag – but not for the reason you might be thinking! Put some cotton balls in the bottom of the bag and add a couple of lavender oil drops. When someone starts getting carsick, pass them the bag, and have them breathe in the scent of the oil to feel better. The oil will relax the person in question and leave them feeling a little more positive.

· Keeping Things Dry

Suppose you’ll be heading out to the water and don’t want to leave your valuables behind on the shore. Put items such as your phone, keys, or wallet into a plastic bag. Blow air into the bag to inflate it, and it’ll be able to float easily next to you, keeping the items inside it nice and dry.

2. For Packing Or Moving

Packing up, especially to move house, can be an arduous task. A surprisingly indispensable part of that process can be all the leftover plastic bags you have unwittingly collected in your home. Here’s how they can be used!

· Packing Material

Many people make use of packing material to keep their belongings safe when moving, especially for more fragile possessions. Plastic bags can do this job well. Stuff the spaces between items with plastic bags to prevent excessive movement. When it comes to high-quality and durable packing solutions, Plastic bag manufacturers USA offer a range of options that are both reliable and environmentally conscious, making your move smoother and more secure.

· Protecting Fragile Items

If you have something priceless that you need to transport for any reason, and it happens to be fragile, consider using plastic bags to protect it. You can place it inside a plastic bag, blow to inflate the pack slightly, tie it up tightly, and then wrap it around with more plastic bags to give it a nice sealed cushion.

· For Garage Sales

Need to declutter? Hosting a yard sale is a common way to get rid of extra items, especially before you move. Let customers at your garage sale cart away their items in plastic bags to encourage more purchasing and make things more convenient for them.

3. Food and Kitchen Uses

The effortlessly adaptable nature of a plastic bag makes it very easy to use in the kitchen and for food-related purposes. Here are some ways to get the most out of them in the kitchen:

· Cake Decoration

Not a fan of pastry bags? They can be quite hard to clean and aren’t cheap. For a simple alternative, place frosting or icing into a plastic bag, squeeze out the air, and twist the top to close it up. Your icing tool should now be in the shape of a cone. Cut off the end of the bag, at the very tip of the funnel, and squeeze the icing or frosting onto your cake as desired.

· Oil Disposal

Many people pour their used cooking oil down the drain, but as that oil dries, it creates greasy fat that is less than positive for drainage systems and a real inconvenience for plumbers when they do need to fix clogging caused by oil residue buildup. Instead, let the oil cool, then pour it into a plastic bag. Seal the bag and throw it out with the rest of your trash, and your drains will thank you.

· Dough Coloring

Mixing in food coloring properly can be difficult when you’re trying to evenly coat dough. Instead of getting your hands stained all the colors of the rainbow, try using a plastic bag to work the coloring in. Simply place the dough into a bag, add your food coloring, and knead the mixture through the bag until you’re happy with its appearance.

· Pan Greasing

Tired of getting your hands slippery after you use butter to grease a pan? Pick up your shortening or butter with a plastic bag and use that to hold it as you rub it away.

· Chocolate Melting

There’s nothing wrong with using a bain-marie or a bowl in the microwave to melt chocolate, but you can also use a plastic bag. Get some warm water in a pan, making sure not to boil the water. Place chocolate into a plastic bag, preferably one you can seal or very tightly close, then put the bag into the warm water pan. Leave to melt, then seal the bag off like you do to decorate cakes, and you have a convenient way to soften and pipe chocolate all in one go.

· Storage For Grated Cheese

Instead of busting out the grater every single time you want some cheese, grate the whole block in one batch. Then, store the rest of the cheese in a plastic bag and seal it shut. This way, you can quickly get grated cheese whenever you want.

· Marshmallow Softening

If your marshmallows have hardened after storage, you can soften them again with this easy trick. Place marshmallows into a plastic bag, preferably one you can seal or very tightly close. In a pan, warm up some water – not too hot! – and then place the plastic bag of marshmallows inside. The warmth in the enclosed space will warm up the marshmallows, softening them up for consumption.

4. For Pets or Animals

Have pets? Just love animals? The plastic bags you have may be useful to them in surprising ways! Here how you can use your recycled plastic bags for the animals around you:

· Cleaning Up After A Dog

When walking your dog, likely, he or she will occasionally stop along their route to “do their business.” As a responsible pet owner, you have to clean up after them. Bring along some small plastic bags to pick their waste up with, then turn the bag inside out to keep the debris inside without ever dirtying your hands.

· Feeding Birds

Have birds that scavenge for food during the colder months? Mix peanut butter and birdseed in a plastic bag, preferably a sealable one. Mix the contents well inside the bag. Finally, place the resulting food mixture onto a pinecone or a net bag. The birds will love this easy treat!

· A Makeshift Water Dish

If you go out for a hike with your furry friend, consider using a sealable plastic bag as a portable water dish if you don’t have one of your own. Fill the bag with water and hold it open for your pup so they can have a nice drink.

5. Cleanliness Uses

It’s not easy to notice the many cleanliness-related uses that plastic bags can perform. The possibilities are nearly endless. Here are some of our favorite ways to used recycled plastic bags to keep things clean:

· Trash Can Liners

Throwing trash directly into a trash can means you have to clean that bin regularly to get rid of leftover gunk, especially from wet waste. Instead of buying specialized trash bags, just recycle plastic bags you already have. Place the plastic bag into a trash bin to line the sides, then simply tie the bag and throw it out once it’s full.

· Hand Cleaners For Sand

Sand gets everywhere quickly. If you’re at the beach and need to clean off the grit before digging into a sandwich, you’ll want to have baby powder in a sealed plastic bag. Place your hands into the baby powder, then shake them and rub them outside to get rid of any lingering sand granules.

· Throwing Dirty Diapers

To make sure soiled diapers don’t unfurl or reveal themselves in a trash bin, first put them into a plastic bag and tie it up tightly. This keeps the odor locked in and allows you to easily dispose of them or bring them outside to take them out directly. You can also do this for similar products, like sanitary pads.

· Baby Wipes

Thrifty parents have found ways to save money by making effective substitutes for baby wipes that make use of recycled plastic bags. Start by putting paper towels in a sealable bag. Make sure the paper towels are soft. Add in a mix of one teaspoon of baby oil, a third of a cup of water, and one tablespoon of antibacterial soap of a gentle variety. Use the mixture to dampen – not completely soak – the paper towels, then use them to clean up your little one.

· Stay Clean And Cool Outdoors

If you’re out on a walk or to exercise on a warm or hot day, this trick can keep you feeling fresh. Soak a washcloth in a mix of lemon juice and water, then place it in a sealable plastic bag. Whenever you need it while you’re out, simply use it to wipe yourself down. You can also freeze washcloths instead to bring along in a plastic bag to give yourself some cold relief on the road.

Final Thoughts On Trying These Creative Ways To Recycle Plastic Bags

Recycling plastic bags is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint in the world. With some thoughtfulness and positive thinking, you will slowly be able to lessen your reliance on these bags as time goes on!

Natural Beauty Products That Replace Chemical Deodorant

August 7, 2020 by Power of Positivity

As we grow, we undergo many changes. The most significant changes take place during the stage of development that we call puberty. Additional body hair, growth spurts, and hormonal changes necessitate that we learn to care for ourselves in different ways. Of course, we carry many of those grooming habits into adulthood.

The need for deodorant or antiperspirant products

The human body passes waste through our skin pores in the form of sweat. We tend to sweat most in folds and creases, including the underarms, groin, and behind the knees. While sweat itself is odorless, it’s the bacteria present on and just below the surface of the skin that releases those offensive odors that we try so hard to cover up to maintain our pleasant social status.

The use of these products is a socially acceptable way to care for the post-pubescent body. You need only to look at the supermarket and department store shelves to see evidence that we are expected to use it.

With recent studies coming to light about the array of chemicals that comprise most traditional deodorant and antiperspirant products, many people find themselves looking for natural alternatives that link to damaging health effects.

Is traditional deodorant harmful to your health?

One of the most alarming claims made against antiperspirant products in recent years is that it has links to the formation of certain cancers, potentially including breast cancer. The theory behind this claim is that deodorant chemicals can seep into the lymph nodes and change healthy cells into cancerous ones.

Other claims against traditional chemical products indicate that it can significantly impact kidney function and contribute to the development of allergies. It seems a closer look at the chemical makeup of antiperspirant is in order in an attempt to maintain and protect our health, and a return to natural products that are chemical-free and environmentally responsible will benefit us all.

Harmful Chemicals in Commercial Deodorant

Most traditional antiperspirants contain a combination of the following:

Aluminum
Parabens
Propylene glycol and other ingredients

Let’s take a look at each of these compounds individually in an attempt to understand how we are impacting our health by continuing to wear deodorant.

1. Aluminum

Used in almost every commercial deodorant and antiperspirant, aluminum salts are the primary chemical compound that helps to prevent sweat from breaking through pores in the skin. Frequent use of traditional chemical products can cause a residual buildup of aluminum salts in breast tissue, contributing to the formation of cancer.

Too much aluminum in your body can also cause kidney dysfunction, bone disease, and dementia.

The FDA has recently mandated that deodorant and antiperspirant companies now place a warning on the package labeling, indicating that there may be potential complications from repeated use of brands containing aluminum.

2. Parabens

Parabens are a compound placed in deodorant to prevent the growth of yeast, fungi, and bacteria on the product. These parabens readily absorb through the skin, and, once inside the body, they can function as additional estrogen.

Higher lifetime exposure to estrogen increases your risk of breast cancer. While more evidence is needed to conclusively point to this relationship, it would be advisable to look for brands that are paragon-free.

3. Propylene glycol and other ingredients

Other additives, such as propylene glycol and other chemicals, could increase skin irritation and other reactions from antiperspirant use.

So many possible reactions exist that it is difficult to pinpoint the cause of irritation that arises. Looking for more natural alternatives will be essential if you wish to reduce the risk of the development of certain health conditions and claim vibrant health.

What are some natural alternatives to traditional deodorant?

Several store-bought varieties of antiperspirants are now on the market that abandons traditional chemical compounds. Today you can find products with a variety of natural elements designed to slow sweat production, neutralize odor, and eliminate those unsightly yellow stains on clothing. Whether you wish to buy for convenience or make your own, consider this list of alternatives to keep you fresh and confident while preserving your long term health.

1. Baking soda or cornstarch

Baking soda is a true wonder–it masks odor and soaks up moisture, all at the same time. To make a natural an inexpensive deodorant right in your kitchen, mix 1/8 tsp of baking soda with enough water to make a paste and apply directly to your armpits.

Similarly, cornstarch is known for its absorbent properties, and you’ll be left high and dry when you combine six parts to one part baking soda and apply directly to your underarms for a dry antiperspirant sensation.

2. Lemon juice

Make sure you aren’t freshly shaven when trying this alternative, for you won’t be likely to try it again. Lemon juice has potent, anti-bacterial properties, and it is excellent for neutralizing odor while providing a fresh, crisp scent that lasts all day long.

3. Rubbing alcohol

Rubbing alcohol also kills odor-causing bacteria, and you are likely to have this lying around in your medicine cabinet. Add some to a spray bottle and infuse it with your favorite essential oil for odor-eliminating freshness you can spritz on all day long.

4. Essential oils

Not to worry about smelling like baking soda or rubbing alcohol. Indeed, you can add lemongrass, orange, or lavender oil to your blend safely. This addition will mask any odors and keep you smelling beautiful all day long. Mix and match oils to find your perfect stimulating or calming scent, depending on your daily needs.

5. Witch hazel

Witch hazel is not only a popular astringent. It is anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial. It kills bacteria while whisking moisture away from the skin, making it a perfect antiperspirant substitute. Because it wears off rather quickly, you’ll have to reapply it frequently throughout the day.

6. Store-bought natural deodorants

Many products now exist for those of us who are not kitchen witches, and we would instead choose a store-bought beauty products containing natural ingredients. Some of the most effective of these include:

1. Schmidt’s Natural Deodorant

Made with plant-based powders like baking soda and arrowroot powder, this product will blow your mind in terms of both pleasant scent and wetness control. Coconut oil, shea butter, and calendula oil ensure that you get a smooth, even application, and it will keep you cool and fresh for hours.

2. Agent Nateur

Raw organic honey, lavender, and coconut oil lend themselves to this sexy application of odor control and delicious scent. Additional natural elements of baking soda, beeswax, avocado, and coconut butter go to work hard, giving you antiperspirant and odor protection all day long.

3. Type A

Who knew that a pure cream could do such an effective job of sweeping away odor-causing bacteria and sweat? This natural deodorant gives you the ultimate in comfort and protection? Type A stands up against your most vigorous hot yoga or cardio sweat session, and its waterproof protection ensures that it stays put when you need it most.

4. Ursa Major

Available in both spray and stick form, this wonderful blend of chemical-free ingredients form a crisp and refreshing formula that absorbs excess moisture while smoothing and soothing sensitive skin. Fresh scents like eucalyptus, citrus, and mint round out a perfect sensory experience with every application.

5. Jasmine Tea

Another winner from Schmidts, Jasmine Tea is a sensual blend of vegetable powder, clay, and various essential oils. These ingredients work to absorb excess moisture and provide freshness for the long haul.

You will find the scent to be clean and green. Plus, you can let it pull double duty. It works great as a moisturizer for the skin and a texturizer for the hair. You’ll get the most bang for your buck with this three-in-one product, and you’ll smell great too.

6. Each And Every Natural

Containing no aluminum, parabéns, or even baking soda, you may wonder what this blend is comprised of. Essential oils, coconut and avocado fats, and mineral salts make up this incredibly light and airy blend of ingredients. You will find they glide on fresh and clean, leaving you smelling incredible.

7. Love, Beauty, and Planet

Plant-based emollients, salts, and essential oils form the basis of this 24-hour deodorizing product. This vegan product is never tested on animals. Plus, they pride themselves on promoting environmentally responsible business practices in the production of their products. Love, Beauty, and Planet is a reliable product that works as hard as you do to make your day seamless and scent-free.

Final Thoughts on Choosing Natural Deodorant Alternatives

Creating a state of optimal health not only applies to the foods that you put in your body but the products that you apply to your skin and hair as well. In using a natural alternative to antiperspirant, you are safeguarding your health and maintaining your social status all in one. Choose from the list of pre-made deodorant products. Or, make your own, and have fun finding unique combinations of scent and texture that work well for you.

Herbalists Reveal 10 Useful Treatments for Post Nasal Drip

August 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Remember some of the classic commercials on tv for over-the-counter cold and sinus medications? In one, the cartoon lady had a leaky faucet in place of her nose, and she stated, “Drip, Drip, Drip,” wearily with every drop. Although it’s a whimsical advertisement, nothing could illustrate the aggravation of post nasal drip better.

When your nose and sinuses are stopped up, the painful pressure can make you miserable. The sickness is often exacerbated when the excess mucus overflows and constantly drips from your nose and down your throat. You get a sore and inflamed nose from wiping with so many tissues, but your throat becomes raw and painful from the drainage.

What Causes Post Nasal Drip?

What can be more disturbing than that familiar tickling sensation in your throat that makes you cough, and you know that sickness may be brewing. Post nasal drip is a common symptom of colds, viral infections, sinus infections, and allergies. Your nose starts dripping with excess mucus, which creates problems of its own.

Yes, mucus is disgusting, and it drives you crazy when it’s clogging your nose and impeding your breathing. However, it is a vital source of lubrication and protection for your entire respiratory system. Specialized cells in the lining of your sinuses, air passageways, and lungs secrete thin layers of mucus that keep them moist and trap irritants and harmful microbes.

As your respiratory system’s first line of defense, mucus thickens around the trapped irritants like dust, dander, pollen, and bacteria. It can be expelled by blowing your nose or through your digestive system. Tiny hair called cilia act like miniature brooms and keep your lungs free of excess mucus and particles. Infections and allergies can temporarily paralyze your cilia, causing the mucus to back up in your bronchial tubes and sinuses.

Your initial reaction is that tell-tale tickle in your throat, which leads to a nagging cough, sore throat, and a runny nose. Typically, these classic symptoms only last the duration of the illness, and the dripping stops. How do you tolerate the steady post nasal drip while you are recovering?

Treatments for a Running Nose

In some cases, primary healthcare providers recommend over-the-counter medications to remedy your symptoms. More severe cases may call for antibiotics or other prescription drugs. If you want some natural relief for your post nasal drip, try these ten home remedies.

1. Try a Neti Pot

The neti pot is an ingenious invention that uses a warm saline solution to clear excess mucus from your sinuses and throat. The word neti comes from the Sanskrit word for nose cleaning and maybe one of the earliest nasal cleansing techniques recorded in ancient Ayurvedic history. Other early cultures around the world developed similar ways to clear their stuffy noses.

You can find these pots inexpensively in most pharmacies and online. Use it, simply fill the pot with warm, sterile saline solution, snuff it up one nostril, and lean your head so it will run out the opposite nostril. The heated saltwater will soothe irritated nasal passages, but it can also reduce swelling and allow excess mucus to drain correctly.

If you want to save a little money, you can easily make a solution at home. Here’s what you need:

One teaspoon fine sea salt
1/3 teaspoon baking soda
One cup of warm purified water (not hot)

In a small bowl, mix salt, baking soda, and water until dry ingredients are completely dissolved. Pour it into your nasal cleansing pot and use it as directed. If you don’t have one of these, you can substitute by using a sizeable sterile syringe.

2. Avoid Dairy Products

Of course, you may crave a cold glass of milk or a comforting cup of ice-cream when your throat is raw from a runny nose and coughing. However, certain natural chemicals in milk and dairy products can encourage mucus production and make it thicker, which is not what you need when it’s a problem anyway.

If you want something refreshing and soothing for your throat, try chilled fruit juices or popsicles. You may also try non-dairy ice cream if you wish for that creamy taste and sensation. Consider almond or rice milk on your cereal or in your coffee until you have recovered.

3. Avoid Eating Spicy Foods

Are you a fan of all cuisines hot and spicy? The minute you bite into a fiery pepper or taste those piquant spices, your eyes, and nose water, and you feel like a fire-breathing dragon. While you are having a snack of your favorite spicy foods, they boost your mucus production, because your body thinks it’s being attacked by the spicy heat.

Do yourself a favor and avoid eating spicy and hot foods while you have post nasal drip and other symptoms. If you crave a little zesty flavor without the infernal heat, try milder spices and sweet peppers. You can enjoy the flaming foods and spices you love soon.

4. Use a Humidifier

Did you know that cold, dry air can make your body more prone to colds, flu, and other respiratory infections? Constant coughing and steady post nasal drip can irritate your nose and throat, making them feel parched and sore.

When you sleep, consider using a humidifier in your room. The gentle steam will help loosen your clogged airways so you can breathe better. It will also soothe the dryness in your sinuses and throat. For an extra boost, add a few drops of pure menthol or eucalyptus oil.

5. Try Essential Oils

Aromatherapy is an ideal way to remedy your post nasal drip problem. Essential oils like lavender, rosemary, and lemon are naturally antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal. Use them with carrier oils to rub externally on your throat and under your nose.

You can also put your oils in a diffuser and still enjoy their benefits. Consider using a small roll-on tube to rub on your skin as needed. Add these aromatic oils to sachets or simmering potpourri to open your sinuses and make your house smell heavenly.

6. Drink Water

How many times have you read that everyone needs to drink at least 6-8 glasses of water today? Yet, you find disturbing studies that say at least 75 percent of Americans are dehydrated. When you are sick and have a runny nose, you are losing fluids in your body, and you need to replenish them with plenty of cool water.

Fill up a container of cold water and keep it close to you during the day. Sip on it when you feel thirsty or have that nagging tickle in your throat that makes you cough. Aim to get at least 48 ounces of water a day, or more according to your weight.

7. Use Non-medicated Saline Nasal Spray

Maybe you avoid medicated nasal sprays because you’ve studied about the rebound effect, which means they can often make your post-nasal drip and sinus conditions worse, and you can become addicted to the spray. You needn’t worry if you use a non-medicated saline nasal spray. The sterile saline solution can thin built-up mucus and soothe your irritated nose.

8. Get Some Exercise

It stands to reason that your respiratory tract can build up more mucus if your body is resting. As much as you feel like it, try to get some moderate exercise while recovering from colds or other ailments. The gentle movement will energize your body and get your sluggish cilia to work on that excess mucus.

9. Bundle Up in Cold Weather

Here’s another example where your parents’ wisdom comes in handy. Remember how they told you to bundle up when the temperature is chilly outside? Although it’s a common misperception, cold air can’t give you colds or other illnesses, but it can weaken your immune system and make you more prone to them.

Cold, dry air is also the enemy of your sinuses and air passages, causing them to be dry and irritated. It creates the perfect habitat for allergens and germs to wreak havoc on your respiratory system. Remember to keep warm and keep runny noses and other maladies at bay.

10. Drink Herbal Tea

When your nose doesn’t quit dripping, you’re constantly coughing, and your throat feels like you’ve swallowed crushed glass, it’s time for tea. Brew yourself a comforting cup of herbal tea and enjoy the benefits it offers. Try soothing herbs like chamomile, lavender, rosemary, sage, or catnip.

These herbs can naturally fight infections and help to heal the irritations caused by coughing and mucus buildup. A bonus is the warm, comforting steam from the tea that can open your sinuses and breathing passages. Avoid teas with caffeine, as they can make your symptoms worse.

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Final Thoughts on When to Seek Medical Treatment for Post Nasal Drip

These home remedies are useful when your symptoms are mild to moderate, and you see them fade within 10-14 days. If you are running a fever or notice a yellow infectious discharge in your mucus, you should contact your primary healthcare provider as soon as possible.

For people who have allergies or other respiratory problems, every season is a game for fighting the symptoms of coughing, sore throat, and persistent post nasal drip. These natural remedies may be the thing you need to stop the drip and make you feel better.

8 Outcomes of Parents Using Guilt Instead of Positivity on Their Kids

August 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

It’s no secret that communicating with kids can be difficult. Indeed, it can make a parent downright nutty at times. It shouldn’t be a surprise that parents try different methods of getting their kids to do things, but not all of these methods may not be a great choice.

Using guilt is one of those “not so great” choices. Many counselors explain what happens when parents use guilt trips on their children, and usually, the explanation is not one to be proud of. Sure, this tactic may work in the short term, and the outcome may even benefit the child in the short run. However, guilt-tripping kids is something that can have lasting negative consequences that you can’t see right away.

In this article, counselors explain what happens when parents use guilt trips on their children. Keep reading to find out more.

What is Guilt Tripping?

Using guilt, aka guilt-tripping is the process of making someone feel guilty about something, usually in an attempt to manipulate them in some way. The definition of guilt-tripping sounds malicious, and in many ways, it is. It’s essentially a bully. That’s why it’s not good to use this negative thinking on your kids.

It’s essential to recognize that helping your child to understand guilt is not the same as making them feel to blame for an event. Teaching your child about guilty feelings, right from wrong, and other moral life lessons will lead to a healthy, compassionate adult with excellent morals and values.

A lesson about guilt crosses over into guilt trip territory when the guilt tripper is attempting to gain something from another person. It’s not always money or other tangible items. It could be something simple like a nap so the parent can take a break from child duties for a while. However, as counselors explain what happens when parents use guilt trips on their children, it becomes evident that it’s still manipulation, which is bad for young minds.

Why Parents Would Use Guilt Trips on Their Kids

There can be many reasons why a parent would guilt-trip their kids. On the surface, it’s because they want their kid to do something or behave a certain way, but counselors believe that it goes deeper than that.

Shaming and blaming people, from the guilt tripper’s perspective, is less about the guilt and more about the manipulation. Psychologists agree that many people who often use manipulation has had a rocky past. The manipulation is almost like a survival method, and the manipulator may not even be fully aware of their participation in it.

Manipulators often have a past filled with instances of competition for love, affection, or acceptance. They may have had a history filled with a struggle to be accepted into specific groups or lifestyles, and manipulation was the way they accomplished this.

When the abused kids grow up and become parents, the manipulation can continue in the form of shaming their kids. It may be the only way they’re capable of showing any type of parenting skills. Unfortunately, people with this type of past doesn’t get the help they need because their problems can transfer over to their children. This impact becomes evident as counselors explain what happens when parents use guilt trips on their children.

Counselors Explain What Happens When Parents Use Guilt Trips on Their Children

Guilt-tripping is essentially a way to cause psychological damage to a kid. Even if the parent isn’t intending to be malicious and merely using it as a way to get their kids to do the right thing, it can have serious consequences later in life.

Here are eight problems that shifting these guilty feelings will cause in kids.

1. Loss of Self-Confidence

When kids are constantly feeling guilty about something, they can experience a loss of self-confidence. They may feel like they can’t do anything right. While they grow up, they’ll often question their choices, and they may not be successful in life simply because they have low self-esteem.

2. Inability to Maintain Healthy Relationships

When children are victims of constant guilt trips, it can affect how they interact with others. We’ve already established that their self-confidence takes a hit, so it’s no surprise that they may be shy and withdrawn from people. They’ll be so afraid of being judged that they can’t interact with people regularly.

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3. They’ll Resent Their Parents

No one likes to be manipulated. Children, especially teenagers, may begin to resent their parents. This disconnect can cause them to “act out” or misbehave. They may become disrespectful to their parents and possibly even other siblings in the home. The relationship between the parents and their children will degrade, rendering the guilt-tripping pointless since the child won’t listen to the parent anymore.

4. They’ll Have Rocky Romantic Relationships in Adulthood

While they struggle with relationships during childhood, that struggle will continue into adulthood. They may have the inability to trust or show love. This outcome is a recipe for disaster in romantic relationships.

5. They’ll Struggle in School

For the same reasons they’ll struggle with social relationships, they’ll struggle with maintaining their grades in school. It could be from a lack of interest, or it could be that they can’t concentrate. They may not wholly fail but might be an average student who doesn’t have the confidence to try to reach their full potential.

6. They May Give Into Peer Pressure Easily

Being subjected to constant shaming tactics from parents sets kids up to be a target of guilt-tripping from peers. They won’t have the understanding or skills to stand up to peer pressure. To please their friends and keep from feeling even guiltier, they may just give in so they’ll fit in and make everyone happy.

7. They May Feel Obligated to Stay with People Who Mistreat Them

Guilt-tripping children is, in essence, teaching them to cater to someone who makes them feel bad. They’ll begin to feel like it’s their fault that the other person feels bad and that they’re responsible for fixing the situation. This can lead to your child being the victim of a bully in their school years, and in an abusive relationship during their adult years.

8. They May Exhibit Bizarre Behavior During Childhood

Children don’t know how to handle emotions as adults do. If a parent causes shame or embarrassment in their child repeatedly, the child may begin to deal with all those unhealthy feelings of guilt through bizarre or dangerous actions. If the abuse continues and the child doesn’t get help, it can cause all kinds of mental and emotional issues as the child grows up.

Two Excellent Alternatives to Guilt for Parenting Your Kids

After reading how counselors explain what happens when parents use guilt trips on their children, it’s only natural to wonder about alternative ways to get kids to do the right thing. A lot of parents who guilt-trip their kids aren’t doing it to be harmful. Indeed, they may not even realize that what they’re doing is dangerous.

In many cases, parents are just trying to communicate with their kids in the best way they know-how. However, there are alternative ways to communicate with your kids. Two of those ways are teaching them why a particular action or behavior is right, and another is through the use of incentives.

1 – Teach Them

Teaching children the correct way to behave and the right things to do is the best way to communicate with them. It builds trust between the parents and kids, and they learn how to navigate life healthily. More importantly, they’ll feel good about themselves as they learn and achieve lessons.

2 – Incentives

Some kids may need a little “push” in the right direction. A positive way to do this is through the use of incentives. The good thing about this is that the incentives don’t have to be elaborate. Kids get excited about something as simple as recognition. However, a small reward such as allowance money for chores, or an ice cream shop day for good grades goes a long way. Incentives are a lot better than guilt trips.

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Final Thoughts on Parents Guilt Tripping Their Kids

Even though counselors explain what happens when parents use guilt trips on their children, it still happens quite often. It’s important to realize that most parents don’t guilt-trip their kids to cause harm. Many counselors agree that it’s a learned parenting behavior once considered okay because it produces results.

Despite this, parents must recognize and change the bully behavior early. The psychological trauma it can leave on a kid may not always be evident until they grow up. If you’re a parent who recognizes that you may have been guilt-tripping your child, don’t be afraid to make a change and use the two suggested alternatives.

After practicing them for a while, they’ll become a habit. This will allow you to have a positive flow of communication with your child, leading to a happier and healthier life for both of you.

10 Healthy Benefits of Burning Sage in Your Home

August 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

In the rich history of herbs and roots, sage remains the queen of the garden. When you think of sage, you probably think of the quintessential seasoning for Thanksgiving turkey and dressing. For centuries, various species of sage have been used for culinary, medicinal, and spiritual reasons.

What is Sage?

Culinary sage, Salvia officinalis, is the recognizable species that you’ll find in your spice rack. It is a perennial woody herb native to the Mediterranean region. Because sage has a historical reputation as a powerful medicinal herb, it was given the Latin name salvia, which means healing.

Origins of Burning Sage

White sage, Salvia apiana, is a species that is native to the western part of the United States. For many Native American cultures, white sage is considered a sacred herb used for cleansing and spiritual ceremonies. For generations, some indigenous Americans dried white sage, tied it into small bundles, and burned it a service called smudging.

Burning sage or other herbs has become a popular tradition in New Age and other spiritual practices. Many cultures around the world have observed some form of this cleansing ceremony. If you watch any television shows about physics or paranormal investigations, you’ll often see spiritual practitioners burning sage to clear the area of harmful or malevolent energies.

How to Burn Sage in Your Home

It isn’t challenging to perform a sage purification ceremony in or around your house. You can do the service alone or with your family. The critical thing to remember is to do it with respect and with positive intentions.

Supplies Needed for Smudging

• A bundle of white sage: Salvia apiana is available in New Age retail shops, which carry products like crystals and singing bowls.

Be sure that your purchase is from ethical and sustainable sources, such as native growers and gatherers. In the west, the white sage harvest is often depleted because of improper cutting techniques and over-picking. It’s important to know your source before buying.

It’s better if you grow white sage in your garden. This plant is exceptionally adaptable in most areas and doesn’t require a lot of care. You can plant it in an outdoor herb garden or grow it in attractive pots indoors.

• An original container for the ashes, such as an abalone shell, wooden bowl, or clay pottery. The ceremony becomes more personal if your vessel is something that you or a loved one handmade.

• A long feather for fanning the smoke: Only use feathers that are legally and ethically obtained. If you object to using feathers on moral grounds, you can use a decorative fan or your hand too.

• Wooden matches

How to Smudge:

• Strike the match and light one end of the sage bundle until it is barely smoldering. You don’t want it to catch fire, so blow out any flame quickly.

• As the leaves burn, it will produce a cloud of thick smoke. Now, use the feather to fan it around yourself and every corner of the space you’re cleansing. Visualize the smoke wiping your area clean of all negative energy.

• Let the sage ashes slowly collect in the shell or other vessel. After the smudge ceremony, release the ashes outside to the wind as symbolism for the negativity blowing away.

Possible Benefits of Practicing Sage Burning

Sage burning ceremonies can be as simple or elaborate as you wish. Not only can you reap spiritual benefits, but you can also gain practical advantages. For safety reasons, never get smoldering sage around flammable materials, and you must make sure the ashes are completely cold before discarding.

Are you ready to see how this mystical practice can help you? It may be something that you can incorporate into your spiritual rituals and journey. Here are ten benefits of burning sage for you to consider.

1. Purify Your Air

Underlying most ancient spiritual practices is usually a physical and scientific principal. Burning sage can purify the air around you, just as native practitioners have claimed. White sage is a natural insect repellent, antibacterial, and antifungal.

When you smudge, smoke from the burning herb creates negative ions that attack allergens in the air like pollen, animal dander, mold, and dust. Do you have asthma or other allergies? A sage cleansing ceremony may clean the air you breathe to minimize your symptoms.

2. Provide Aromatherapy to Calm Your Stress

Have the stresses of life built up in your space to where it’s unbearable? The mesmerizing fragrance of burning sage may be the stress reliever you need. Scientific reports about using sage as aromatherapy suggest that the scent reacts with parts of the brain to produce a calm and feeling of well-being.

3. Boost Your Mood

Everybody has a bad day occasionally that puts a damper on their mood. Did you know that a sage burning ceremony may help lift depression, ease anxiety, and give your mood a much-needed boost? As with stress, the smoke’s gentle fragrance works with your brain to put you in a peaceful, happy atmosphere.

4. Help You Get a Good Night’s Sleep

It makes sense that if your bedroom is charged with negative energy, it will disrupt your sleep. Many people find relief from occasional insomnia by using sage in their room before bedtime. After the sage embers have died into cool ash, the smoke lingers in a soothing perfume that can help you relax, fall asleep, and awaken refreshed.

5. Pump Up Your Energy Levels

When your living or working space is teeming with positive energy, your body reacts with the same vibrancy and positive power. As the positively charged smoke from a sage burning clears the area of negative charges, you may notice that you feel recharged, inspired, and able to do more things than you usually do.

6. Can Boost Your Brain Power

Are you studying for a test or working on a project and need some more enthusiasm from your brain? Try performing a simple sage burning ceremony in the space where you are working or studying. Some scientific research on burning sage suggests positive correlations between the herb and a boost in cognition and creativity.

7. May Dispel Residual Negativity of the Past

Have you ever walked into a room that you’ve never visited before and felt a heaviness you couldn’t explain? Some spiritual practitioners believe that apartments, houses, and even land can harbor negative energy from past traumatic events. Maybe you’ve experienced trauma or other negative experiences, and it still lingers in your shadow.

Burning sage in this spiritually heavy room may dispel residual negativity and replace it with a positive glow. Along with the smudge, the ceremony must come to the positive intentions and affirmations that your cleansing ceremony will work to your good. It may be a tool to cleanse your heart and spirit from past hurts and open your eyes to the beauty of the present.

8. Can Cleanse Objects

We know from high school science classes and Einstein’s theory that matter has energy. Everything in the universe is vibrating at different levels and can produce positive or negative charges. So, it stands to reason that objects in your home or office are energized and can carry negative residual energy from the past.

Before you bring anything into your home, especially things that may have been used in a spiritual ceremony, consider cleansing them first with a smudging ritual. Use your feather to gently waft the smoke around the object and visualize any harmful or detrimental energy vanishing.

9. Might be a Tool for Spiritual Practices

For many indigenous cultures of America, sage has had cultural and spiritual significance. It has often been used to enhance spiritual awareness, open the mind’s sixth sense, or to encourage psychic dreams. A sage burning ceremony usually coincides with services for healing and dedication.

Along with the spiritual experience comes some scientific evidence. Many cultivars of sage, including white sage, contains a chemical called thujone that has trace psychoactive properties. While it certainly isn’t like a psychedelic herb, sage can bring mild feelings of well-being and improved intuition.

10. Enjoy a Natural Air Freshener

Your house is filled with things that can make it smell less than appealing. From the kitchen to the kids’ rooms to the bathrooms, you may have an arsenal of scented candles, potpourri, and sprays to kill the odors. However, most of these synthetic air fresheners only mask the smells and can have chemicals that are hazardous to your family and pets.

Instead, why not freshen the air in your home naturally with a sage burning ceremony. White sage and other varieties have a distinct verdant and woodsy smell that most people find pleasant and relaxing. Burn sage throughout each room that harbors odors, especially the kitchen and bathroom.

Final Thoughts on Taking Advantage of the Healthy Benefits of Burning Sage

There is no magic involved in smudging. While it’s important to use visualization and clear intentions, many attributes of this ancient ceremony have some basis in science. No matter how you plan to practice, do so with respect for the service and those who created it.

15 Ways to Beat Pessimism and Regain Your Happiness

August 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Do you walk around with a frown as if you’re always waiting for the sky to fall? Are you a person that seems to see the glass half empty rather than half full? Don’t worry, as many people tend to have a negative outlook, manifested by pessimism.

The world you live in is a scary place these days, and there are plenty of reasons to dwell on the negative aspects of your life rather than focusing on the positive ones. Pessimism is not something that just comes naturally to many people; it’s a mindset that you must work hard to achieve.

No one wants to be negative, but they often feel that life has handed them so many lemons they don’t even begin to know what to do with them. How do you go about clearing the overwhelming negativity from your life, well here are a few tips to beat your pessimistic outlook once and for all?

15 Ways to Kick Pessimism Out of Your Life and Feel Happier

Here are the techniques that can banish negativity and bring more joy back into your life.

1. Get Rid of Toxic People

The first thing you need to do to start thinking positively is to get rid of the toxic people holding you back. Maybe you are involved in a relationship that has more storms than sunny weather. It’s time to take control of your life.

You have the power to decrease your inner circle. Be incredibly careful about who you let into your life. These negative Nellies can have a dramatic impact on your thought processes. If you’re always hanging around with a “Debbie Downer,” then you will have a hard time having a good outlook.

Alter your relationships for the better and watch the negativity drift away. You are known by the company you keep, and as your grandmother probably said, “Birds of a feather flock together.” So, be careful who you let into your flock.

2. Count Your Blessings

It’s easy to look at those around you and think of all the things that you don’t have. Who doesn’t want to keep up with the neighbors? However, you must learn to count your blessings as they are many.

If you got up this morning to a heated or cooled home, then you are blessed. If there was food on your table, people that love you, and a job that provides income, then you are blessed beyond measure. Stop looking at all the things you don’t have, and you must start focusing on the things that you do have.

3. Try Meditation

Meditation is an excellent way to get rid of all the negative juju that you pick up during the day. How many times do you wish that you could shake off the workday when you come home to be with your family? If you’re in a high-stress environment, it has an impact on you.

Meditation is a great way to clear your mind, body, and spirit. You can let go of the negativity that is holding you back. Did you know that being consistently negative can have a dramatic effect on your health? You must get rid of the pessimism immediately.

4. Change Your Diet

Now, you may think that your diet and pessimism are not even closely related. However, you will be shocked to discover that your gut and brain have a direct link. Plant-based foods have been proven to be what’s best for your system.

Diets high in carbohydrates and meat can have a dramatic effect on your body. Have you ever eaten healthy for a few days in a diet attempt and felt great? The sad part was when you fell off the wagon how miserable you felt.

The key to remember is how horrible your lackluster eating habits made you feel. It’s easy to roll in the pessimism when you feel awful. So, changing your eating habits can have a dramatic influence on how you think.

5. Smile

Smiling sounds like a simple solution, but you will be amazed at how much it helps you. It’s hard to feel sad when you have a smile on your face. Try it and see how it changes your life.

Rather than walking through your job looking at the floor, you should hold your head up high and smile. Others around you will notice, and you will feel better. It’s hard to be involved in pessimism when your optimism takes over.

6. Give Back

You know that you need to count your blessings, but you also need to give back. Helping those that are less fortunate will help you to put your complaints into perspective. It’s hard to think that your life is terrible when you see people living on the streets begging for meals.

Doing something beautiful for people who aren’t expecting it and truly need it will change your life. It truly is better to give to others than to receive something for yourself.

7. Utilize Aromatherapy

Nature is one of the best cures for what ails you. Part of changing your mindset can be improving your atmosphere. If you are drowning in pessimism, try having some lavender or lemon balm wafting about.

You will be surprised how these essential oils can improve your mood and put a bounce in your step. There are tons for you to explore and see which ones work best for your needs.

8. Don’t Take on More Than You Can Handle

One of the reasons people feel so burdened and negative is that they take on more than they can handle. Learn to say no to people when they ask you to do things.

You are under no obligation to jam your schedule with things that you can’t possibly do. There is power in learning to use the word “no.”

9. Practice Positivity

It’s going to take you some time to change your mindset. If you’ve always been a fan of pessimism, then getting your mind retrained to see things differently is challenging. Stop yourself when you start spewing negativity and refocus yourself to look on the sunny side of things.

10. Use Positive Affirmations

One way to stop the pessimism is to use positive affirmations. Try saying a few things like this in the mornings:

I am going to have a great day.
I am worthy of love.
I’m thankful for my blessings.
I will make something amazing out of my life.
I refuse to let stress dictate my attitude.

When you start programming yourself for greatness every day, then you will have a whole new outlook.

11. Use Good Posture

Your mind and body are linked, and they both impact each other significantly. If you can’t seem to be optimistic, then use your body to get your brain where it needs to go. For starters, keep your head held high, stand up straight, and keep your shoulders back.

It’s fascinating to think that your posture can be positive, but studies show that you can control your energy and the way you feel from your positive stance.

12. Journal Writing

Journaling is a tactic encouraged by psychologists to help you put your thoughts in writing. The key is it releases things and puts it out into the atmosphere. Once it’s exposed, it can’t eat you up inside.

Try using your journal to get rid of your negativity. Be sure to make it a journal of gratitude too. Take time to write all the things you are thankful for that day and the ones you will conquer tomorrow.

13. Take Time for You

Life is chaotic, and many people don’t devote enough time to their needs. One of the best things you can do to keep your mindset right is to have alone time. You can take a bubble bath or hang with the guys. Just make sure that you have time in your schedule to do the things you love.

14. Use Humor Everyday

Did you know that most comedians use their humor as a coping skill for their past? Look at some greats like Robin Williams, Roseanne Barr, Ellen DeGeneres, and Richard Pryor. These people all used the stage to tackle their demons.

While you don’t need to get rid of negativity on a stage, you will be surprised how much better you feel when you laugh. There’s even medical evidence to prove that laughter is one of the best medicines around.

15. Get a Pet

It’s hard to stay mad or cynical when you have a pet bringing so much joy into your life. If you have a pet, try spending some quality time with them. Did you know that the National Institute of Health found that having a pet can lower your stress and make you a happier person?

Final Thoughts on Beating Pessimism and Becoming a Happier You

If you want to beat pessimism once and for all, you need to incorporate a few of these things into life. There’s no reason to have an attitude of doom and gloom when you can put on a smile and enjoy the life you’ve been given.

15 Things That Make You Stop And Realize That Life Is Beautiful

August 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

While we have to deal with our fair share of obstacles and pitfalls in our time on planet Earth, life is beautiful. Perhaps it takes going through turmoil and pain to garner an appreciation for all the beauty life offers us each day. Most of us have been abundantly blessed with excellent opportunities, family, friends, health, and material comforts.

Of course, much of the planet still deal with problems that the Western world doesn’t face, such as poverty and poor living conditions. However, if you travel to third world countries, you often see that people still find a reason to smile despite the struggles they face each day. Perhaps they value what little they do have because their societies don’t place as much emphasis on accumulating material items to find happiness. As long as these families have food to eat, clean water, shelter, and family, they don’t need anything more than that.

Maybe we should adopt this same concept, especially in westernized countries. By looking at all the simple things that make life beautiful, we can find peace and joy in our hearts, as well as the strength to keep moving forward.

Here are 15 things that make you realize that life is beautiful:

Family

In the hardest times, no one will support you like your family. No matter how far you fall, your family will reach into the depths and pull you back up. We all need a support system to get anywhere in life because we weren’t meant to go through struggles and triumphs alone. Even if all your friends leave you, you lose your job, or your relationship turns sour, your family will still welcome you back home with open arms.

Life is beautiful because of the people who stand by our side no matter what – family.

Exercise is one vital part of living a beautiful life.

Friends

Second, to our families comes friends – they listen to our problems, give us a shoulder to cry on, and make fond, beautiful memories with us. Whether they get us into trouble during a wild night on the town or sit with us in a deep conversation for hours, good friends make life worth living. Sometimes you tell your friends things that you wouldn’t feel comfortable sharing with family, so they play an essential role in our lives.

Nothing lasts forever

Because life doesn’t go on forever, or at least this life, we can have a particular appreciation for its impermanence. If it lasted for an eternity, we would start to take things for granted and grow downright bored with our experience. The fact that no pain or pleasure goes on forever should make us realize that life is beautiful in the short time we do get to experience it. Treasure the good things in your life and learn the lessons from unfortunate situations.

We get to choose our destiny.

Some people believe in fate, but we should have an appreciation for the fact that no matter our circumstances, we can choose to write a different story. We all are born into different situations, but by the power of our consciousness, we accept our actions. Of course, we can’t always know where these actions will lead us. However, we at least make our own decisions and not let our circumstances hold us back from achieving our goals.

Nature

When you look around you at the trees towering above you, sheltering you from the sun or at the birds singing their funny songs, you can’t help but think that life is beautiful. Even on the worst days, the sheer beauty that surrounds us in nature should make us grateful for this human experience. Nature gives us life, so when you wake up tomorrow, give thanks for the sun shining its light on you, and the food you eat nourishes your body, for these allow you to keep enjoying life’s gifts.

Love

Whether you find love in a romantic relationship, a friendship, or your family, love keeps the world spinning. Without love, we would see utter destruction and chaos, and even though those have a place in this reality, love and kindness keep these forces from annihilating the planet. You can find love everywhere – in a smile from a stranger, a baby’s infectious laugh, or a tight hug from a dear friend. Love helps us remember that life is beautiful and to have an appreciation for the people and the beings that share this planet with us.

The opportunity to keep learning

We came to this planet to learn valuable lessons and skills for our soul’s evolution. In today’s world, you can master pretty much any new skill you set your mind to! From musical instruments to coding a website to painting a masterpiece, you can gain new skills in any arena you choose. Don’t let time pass by you without taking up some hobby that brings you joy. With so much to learn on this planet, we have no reason to let boredom or laziness hinder our progress.

Food

This list of what makes life beautiful wouldn’t be complete without listing food! Of course, we should strive to eat food from nature as much as possible, as our bodies need certain nutrients to survive. However, indulging in ice cream or cake every once in a while won’t hurt. With so many different foods to try from various cultures around the world, you could probably live for many long years and still have yet to try it all.

Travel

Seeing new places keeps our spirits high, and our curiosity satisfied. As humans, we naturally want to learn about different cultures and ways of life, and travel allows us to expand our horizons. Earth is an incredibly gorgeous place to live, so we should take advantage of our ability to explore and have an appreciation for different landscapes and cultures around the globe.

The blessing of being able to experience life through our senses

Even the pleasure of having senses at all to witness and experience the world through makes life beautiful. Our full understanding of the world around us couldn’t be possible without being able to think, hear, smell, taste, see, or feel. The ability to touch using your arms and legs to perform tasks is also a blessing because not everyone can do this. Make sure when you wake up every morning to give thanks for the universe, providing you with the ability to experience life as you do each day.

Animals

We couldn’t forget about our furry friends on this list of why life is beautiful! Whether you have a cat, dog, gerbil, bird, or reptile as a pet, I think we can all agree that animals make life so much better. After a hard day of work or school, it just feels fantastic to cuddle up with your best friend and enjoy that special bond between humans and animals. This notion also applies to an appreciation we feel for animals in the wild, because every creature is here for a reason in the circle of life.

You can change your perspective.

As much as we don’t want to hear it sometimes, we get to choose how we feel and think about things. Through positive affirmations and meditation, we can change our mindset to become more open, loving, and peaceful. No matter how negative or cynical you feel, you can alter your consciousness if you choose.

Peace and quiet

After being out and about in the world all day, doesn’t it feel so rejuvenating to sit on the couch, curl in with a good book, and relax? In a world full of noise and chaos, we can always have an appreciation for some rest and decompression in a tranquil place.

Music

Music is an indisputable universal language that brings together all cultures. Whether you like R&B, country, rock, or chill music, researchers have discovered that music releases dopamine and other feel-good hormones. No wonder humans have been drawn to music since we came to this planet!

Our creativity

They say that Earth without art would be “Eh,” and we agree with this statement. Humans have been given creative abilities to make sense of the world around them. Think about how monotonous and bland life would seem without music, art, movies, graphic designs, memes, and every other creative outlet on the planet.

Final thoughts about what makes you realize life is beautiful

Life is beautiful for many reasons, even though it has its fair share of troubles. Without struggles, though, we couldn’t have an appreciation for all the good on this planet. Food, family, friends, travel, nature, love, animals, music, and tranquility all make this experience worth it. Plus, knowing that it doesn’t last forever and that we can always choose a different experience by altering our mindset and intentions makes life a wondrous and rewarding ride. No matter where you are in your life today, we hope this list inspired you to count your blessings!

11 Ways to Recover from a Mentally Abusive Relationship

August 6, 2020 by Power of Positivity

When you have left a mentally abusive relationship, recovering from the damage is essential. It wreaks havoc on your self-esteem, relationships, career, mental health, and your overall well-being. You must leave the abusive relationship to begin your recovery.

If you have already taken that difficult step, then your recovery has already begun. As a huge step, it is sometimes the hardest one to make. Remind yourself that mental abuse is a form of domestic violence, and you don’t deserve to be in that situation.

Once you’ve left the relationship, you will have to put your life back together. Focus on what makes you happy and what keeps you healthy. Focus on your loved ones, your home, and your career, and avoid toxic people at all costs. While you may sometimes miss your abuser, remember that abusers don’t change.

You will recover, even if it doesn’t happen right away. Knowing what to do after you end things helps your recovery happen sooner and more effectively. Through research and observations, therapists have determined the best ways to recover from a mentally abusive relationship.

How to Recover from a Mentally Abusive Relationship

Here are eleven tips on recovering from this abuse.

1 – Acknowledge What Happened

If you want to recover, you can’t pretend the abuse didn’t happen. Instead, acknowledge that you were abused and never downplay what happened. You likely feel negative about the situation, and ignoring it may seem like the easy option, but it won’t help your healing.

Ignoring it will only cause further damage, and the negative emotions you are having will linger. To heal, you have to acknowledge first what happened and face all of the feelings that follow. You will likely feel embarrassed, ashamed, angry, or scared, but it will get better.

It’s important not to downplay what happened to you. Despite what you may think or what others may say, you are not dramatic or out of line. Your reactions are accurate, just as your emotions are real.

Although remembering your experiences may be painful, it is essential to recognize the abuse. Then, you will be able to move on to the next step in recovering.

2 – Remove the Abuser from Your Life

This tip may be hard to do if you love the person, but it is necessary if you want to begin healing. You shouldn’t contact them and should refrain from checking their social media. It’s also essential to remove pictures and mementos of your time with them.

Removing the abuser from your life also means cutting ties with friends who spend time with your abuser. Taking the chance of running into them can trigger many painful feelings and hinder your healing process.

Instead, spend time with people who support you and give you a sense of comfort. Find those who bring you joy and invest your time and energy into those people. Learn to cherish those who cherish you and won’t make you feel the way you did when you were abused.

3 – Find support

As mentioned before, you should cherish the people who bring you positive feelings. Spend your time with them, and seek support from those you trust. This network could be friends, family members, or a licensed therapist.

When you are recovering from a mentally abusive relationship, you may become depressed or anxious. This is when you need a support system the most. So, make sure to find someone who helps you feel validated and supported.

When you have support, you’ll be able to regain your self-esteem. You will realize your genuine worth and know that your abuser’s words and behavior had nothing to do with you. If you choose toxic people instead, your recovery will be impossible.

Your support system shouldn’t be connected to your abuser. If that leaves you with few friends, consider meeting people by joining a team or taking a class. You could also try reconnecting with old friends that you lost touch with.

4 – Focus on Things That Interest You

So, when removing your abuser from your life, you will have to think about how you’ll spend your time. Make this a positive change and focus on things that interest you. Think of the things you’ve always wanted to do and get started on one or two of them.

Maybe this will lead you to take a class or joining a group, which could help you make new friends. By focusing on what you are interested in, you’ll be able to live joyfully and think positively. Plus, being in this environment puts you in the same place as others who share your same interests.

5 – Find a Creative Outlet

You need to have some way to let your feelings out, and doing this creatively helps with healing. There are many creative outlets to express yourself, so the key is finding which art form is best for you. Some options include:

journaling
music
painting
poetry
writing stories or novels

6 – Resume or Develop a Regular Schedule

If you had a schedule that worked for you before the relationship, try to resume that one. If you didn’t have a regular schedule, this is the perfect time to develop one. The routine will help you return to a sense of normal.

Developing a regular schedule can also help you in a health aspect. It will help you avoid overeating or oversleeping. Plus, you’ll be less likely to turn to alcohol or drugs for relief from your feelings.

Know the ten warning signs of emotional abuse.

7 – Consider a Support Group

Sometimes the best way to recover is to talk to others who have been through it. You won’t feel like you’re being judged, and you won’t have to explain why you think the way you do. When you feel understood and comfortable, it’ll be easier to process some of your thoughts and feelings.

You will feel validated and become assured that the way you are feeling is justified. The other members of the support can offer empathy and help you with your recovery.

8 – Focus on Your Health

By focusing on your health, you will recognize your own needs instead of thinking about the needs of others. It will remind you daily that you are, indeed, worthy, despite what you have been through. The time and willpower required of this will be worth it when your body becomes nourished.

You should make healthy choices and get the recommended amount of exercise each day. Do this even when you don’t feel like so that you can focus on feeling better and healing. Feeling good and being healthy will make you feel better, giving you a clearer mind to rebuild your life positively.

9 – Show Yourself Compassion

You have to forgive yourself and remember that the abuse wasn’t your fault. Remind yourself that you are healthy and give yourself grace when you feel weak. No matter what your abuser told you, you did not deserve the emotional abuse you encountered.

While you may have felt helpless in that situation, you have control now can begin to heal from those feelings. Since you are currently in charge, give yourself compassion so that you can start to heal. Forgive yourself for the errors you made along the journey, because it is not your fault.

10 – Remember that Their View of You is Not Accurate

When you’ve been in a mentally abusive relationship, you’ll hear many hurtful things about yourself. After some time, you’ll begin to believe all of the things your abuser says about you. Once you’ve left the relationship, however, you have to recognize that those views of you are not accurate.

Mentally abusive people say things to hurt you because they are hurting. They may say something about you that they subconsciously think about themselves. Either way, their views are inaccurate, and you are not what they say you are.

11 – Take Your Time

As with any kind of healing, recovery from a mentally abusive relationship takes time. It won’t happen quickly, and you’ll likely have some setbacks along the way. Keep trying and don’t give in to the negative feelings so you’ll be able to see the good that is coming.

Give yourself some grace and remember that while the healing will come, it may take a while. Keep doing things and seeing people that seem to help you, and avoid any triggers. The more you work at it, the sooner your recovery will happen.

Final Thoughts on Therapists Reveal How to Recover from a Mentally Abusive Relationship

Recovering from a mentally abusive relationship can be trying. It takes time, effort, support, patience, and strength. You will see progress and setbacks, and you have to keep trying every single day.

Focus on what makes you happy, and surround yourself with people who genuinely support you and love you. When you do this, you’ll see your worth and be able to recover more effectively.

If you need more help, you can get free and anonymous support. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can help you any time of the day and any day of the week. You need help to separate yourself from toxic people, so reach out if you don’t have anyone in your life.

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

Family

Friends

Nothing lasts forever

We get to choose our destiny.

Nature

Love

The opportunity to keep learning

Food

Travel

The blessing of being able to experience life through our senses

Animals

You can change your perspective.

Peace and quiet

Music

Our creativity

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!