Page 568

15 Signs of a Parasitic Infection Never to Ignore

June 24, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Yuck, parasites. They’re more common than you think and are the cause of many well-known infections. You may wonder if you have a parasitic infection. So, what are 15 signs of a parasitic infection never to ignore.

Today, parasitic infections are a significant health issue all over the world. These infections result in the death of many people every year in developing countries. But parasitic diseases are on the increase in western countries, especially in big cities over the past couple of decades. Studies show that emigration to western countries from third world countries plays a considerable role in the spread of parasitic diseases. Common human parasites include hookworms, roundworms or whipworms, pinworms, pork tapeworms, scabies, bedbugs, and head lice.

15 signs and circumstances associated with parasitic infections

Got a tick? Here’s how the CDC recommends dealing with it.

There are many signs of parasitic infection you should be on the lookout for, especially since parasitic infections are currently on the rise across the United States. If you have symptoms of parasites or find yourself in a potential situation where you could get them, be sure to ask your doctor to test you for a possible parasite infection.

This testing is especially necessary if you’ve traveled to a developing country or you have constant exposure to someone who has recently come from a third world country or developing nation.

Here are 15 situations or signs of a parasitic infection you shouldn’t ignore.

1 – You have epilepsy

The most common cause of epilepsy around the world is from a pork tapeworm. This intruder can invade your central nervous system. The tapeworm occupies your body’s tissue, eventually building up in your central nervous system, skin, muscles, and eyes. This invasion can lead to neurocysticercosis, a severe illness that causes seizures like epilepsy.

2 – You have pain in the liver or gall bladder areas

A liver fluke is a type of parasitic worm. Liver fluke infections aren’t that common in the United States, but they do happen. You can get a liver fluke from eating contaminated, undercooked freshwater fish. If you accidentally eat a liver fluke, it goes to your intestines, where it locates in your bile duct inside your liver. It can grow more prominent in this environment. Many people have no symptoms, or their symptoms won’t show up for years. On rare occasions, liver flukes can cause bile, duct cancer, or liver stones.

3 You might feel have abdominal pain, indigestion, increased or decreased appetite

Adult tapeworms can infect your small intestine. Many times you’ll have no symptoms or minor signs thought to be related to stomach upsets, the flu, or other common stomach problems like IBS. Eating meat that hasn’t been cooked thoroughly can harbor tapeworm eggs.

4 – You might feel extreme fatigue, fever, and headaches

These symptoms could be a sign that you have malaria. Other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or anemia. Malaria is caused by the plasmodium parasite that enters your body by a mosquito bite.

The parasite affects your red blood cells causing toxins to build up that, in turn, reduces your red blood cell production or anemia. It can even block your small blood vessels in your body. Left untreated, malaria causes jaundice, coughing, shortness of breath, an enlarged spleen, or hypoglycemia.

5 – You may have excessive bloating, gas, or stomach discomfort

A tiny parasite by the same name causes giardia. It’s a common waterborne parasite in the United States. Found in streams, lakes, and sometimes public swimming pools or spas. It is occasionally transmitted through food or person to person.

Symptoms of giardia include the following:

Nausea
Weight loss
Fatigue
Watery diarrhea
Cramps
Gas

Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms that last longer than a week.

Studies show it’s also a common parasitic infection for caregivers of children or those who swim in freshwater rivers, streams, or lakes.

6 – You own a cat

Accidentally touching cat feces in the garden or litter box may give you a parasitic infection from the Toxoplasma gondii The Toxoplasma parasite is a single-celled parasite. It causes flu symptoms or no symptoms at all. If you’re pregnant, you can pass this infection on to your baby, which can cause dangerous side effects. If you’re not pregnant when you get this infection, your doctor may give you a drug used for malaria and an antibiotic.

7 – You can’t stop scratching your hair

Lice can live on your head, body, clothes, or pubic hair. They’re a parasite that feeds off human blood. They’re spread easily from person to person. Lice crawl, but do not hop or fly.

Symptoms of lice include:

Itchiness on your head, body or pubic area
Feeling like something is crawling in your hair
Finding nits on your clothes or pubic area
Finding little lice eggs or nits in your hair
Lesions on your scalp or neck

8 – You have a dog

If you own a dog, you are susceptible to getting hookworms and roundworms, both common intestinal parasites. These worms are especially common in puppies. These parasites are passed to their stools, so it’s easy to get them on your feet or hands if you’re walking barefoot or working in the yard. Little kids can accidentally ingest a hookworm if they touch their mouths.

Hookworm symptoms include:

Redness
Pain
Itchiness where the parasites travel under your skin
Both hookworms and roundworms also cause:
Stomach pain
Nausea
Diarrhea

Kids are more susceptible to these worms than adults since they play outside more in the dirt or sand. The best preventative is to deworm your pets and keep them up to date on shots.

9 – Your entire body itches incessantly

Mites cause scabies. The National Institute for Health reports that scabies affects people of all economic levels, but “especially the young, elderly and immunocompromised or developmental delayed are at significantly higher risk for scabies and related complications.”

Scabies is very contagious. You can get them touching an infected person’s skin, using their blankets, sheets, towels, or furniture. You can also get scabies from sexual contact with an infected person.

10 – Kids and parasites called pinworms

Not all kids get pinworms, but they are common in children. These little worms get inside your colon or rectum and lay eggs at night around the anus area. The eggs live on your bed sheets or clothing. The eggs are so small, they are often airborne and are easily breathed in. Kids tend to pass them to other children or those caring for them. Strange cases of pinworms have caused appendicitis, but it’s infrequent. Pinworm typically only causes mild symptoms. But studies found that one-third of people with pinworms had no signs.

Common symptoms include anal or vaginal itching and insomnia. Other symptoms may include:

Bacterial infection around the scratched areas
Watery diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Nausea

Know the early signs of a tapeworm.

11- Latin American travels

Studies show that Chagas disease caused small protozoan called Trypanosoma cruzi is exceptionally deadly for those living in Latin America, but it’s spreading even in the United States. Many people have no symptoms, but Chagas disease can lead to heart problems or life-threatening neurological and digestive problems. If caught soon enough, it can be treated, but if left too long, there is no treatment. Chagas disease is spread by a bug called triatomine bug that bites you then poops in the hole of your skin.

12 – You eat raw fish

If you eat ceviche or sushi with uncooked fish, you are susceptible to getting Anisakiasis or herring worm disease. This small worm can cause stomach pain, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea. If you get a tingling in your throat while eating raw fish, stop and cough up the worm before you swallow it.

13 – Undercooking meats

Trichinosis is a parasite you can get from eating undercooked pork, bear, or wild boar. It’s a roundworm that infects these animals then gets passed to humans if they eat the meat. The parasitic worms travel through your bloodstream and other body tissues. Symptoms are

Fever
Muscle pain
Headaches
Swelling in your face
Sensitivity to light
Chills
Eye infections
Fatigue
It can also give you stomach symptoms like diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.

Trichinosis can be fatal if it’s not diagnosed quickly. If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor immediately.

14 – Overseas travels

Depending upon where you travel, you may be at risk of getting a parasite when you go. Find out what pests are common to the area where you plan to visit. If there is a preventative measure, find out before your travels. If there isn’t a vaccine, take some precautions on your trip such as

Drink bottled or boiled water only
Wash your hands constantly
Avoid eating raw meat, eggs or shellfish

15- You do not wash your hands frequently

If you don’t wash your hands properly, you’re at risk. Handwashing is the best prevention against parasites. Wash your hands properly with hot soapy water after you go to the bathroom, work outside in the garden, caring for your pets, change diapers, or before preparing food. Sanitizing your hands is the number one way to safeguard your health plus prevent spreading parasites to others.

10 Hand Sanitizer and Handwashing Tips to Never Ignore

How to prevent getting a parasitic infection

Here are some basic ways to avoid a parasitic infection.

1 – Cook your food properly

It’s recommended that you cook ground pork at 160 degrees Fahrenheit or whole pork shoulders at 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Chicken should be cooked at 165 degrees Fahrenheit, and beef should be cooked at 145 to 160 degrees Fahrenheit depending upon the cut of meat. Never sample meat until it’s cooked.

Always wash your hands with hot soapy water after touching raw meat.

2 – Care for your pets, dogs, and cats

Hand washing after working in your garden or yard
Don’t touch cat or dog feces (or rabbit, horse, chickens, or any other critters you raise)
Get your animals vaccinated
Get your pets dewormed
Remove all dog or cat feces from your yard

3 – Educate your kids about the risks

Instruct your kids not to eat soil or sand and not to put their hands in their mouths when playing outside.
Have your children wash their hands with hot soapy water when they come from playing outside.

Learn how to get rid of head lice without chemical shampoos.

Final Thoughts on Catching Parasitic Infections

As with most diseases, prevention is always the best option. However, you may contract a parasitic infection despite your best intentions. If you do have any of these symptoms, seek an opinion from your doctor. A simple test can determine the next steps.

10 Natural Depression Treatments That May Be Better Than Prescriptions

June 24, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Are you researching to find natural depression treatments to replace prescription medications/

If you suffer from depression, you know the ups and downs of how you feel. It can steal your motivation, your joy, and your sense of hope. Depression affects your life at every level. Today, doctors believe that some natural treatments can fight depression. Medication is the most popular treatment and sometimes the best one, depending upon your depression.

What does depression look like?

Here are some common symptoms of depression that you may experience.

Loss or significant change in appetite-eating too little or overeating
Loss of interest in life, work or social activities
Extreme tiredness
Feelings of irritation with family, friends, and co-workers
Loss of purpose, feeling hopeless or guilty.
Thoughts of death or suicide
Loss of joy
Trouble focusing
Everything feels like it takes a lot of work or effort.
Insomnia or sleeping all the time
Headaches
Aches and pains

Natural depression treatments

Although medications can be helpful to fight depression, there are also natural things you may try to ease the symptoms of depression. Never go off your prescription cold turkey. Talk first with your doctor. They can help you ease off the medication. Don’t try all these natural treatments at once, try one or two, then add a couple more if you feel better. If you’re feeling worse or experiencing thoughts of suicide, contact your doctor immediately.

Exercise

Studies show that physical exercise is an effective way to help treat the symptoms of depression. This reasoning is valid not just because it helps your body, but it also helps your brain function better than well as release endorphins that improve your mood. You need to do aerobic exercises that pump your heart and get your blood moving. These seem to work better than low aerobic exercises, although you can mix the two. The top training to help depression include:

Cycling-Cycling is good for depression because you’re using your motor skill that keeps your brain active. Whether you use a stationary bike at your home or you are biking out on a country road, cycling is a great antidepressant. Increase the amount of time you cycle to increase your stamina and to get a full workout.

Running– Running helps depression, ADD, and ADHD. It enables you to control your thoughts, calms you down, and lifts your moods. Many runners find it helps them focus on their work and makes them more peaceful.

Aerobic exercises with machines-Using stair master, elliptical machines can rev up your exercise routine.

HILT-This cardio exercise includes short bursts of hard workouts that last only 20 to 90 seconds amid your aerobic workout.

Keep a routine

Simple life routines can help you fight depression. Having regular times to eat, exercise, work, socialize, and sleep can bring peace of mind. It’s a simple thing to do for your mental health. Why does a routine help fight depression?

Routine provides a more relaxed life since you don’t have to make decisions about what to do next. Just expending the mental energy to figure out what to do next can cause anxiety. A clear, simple routine gives you peace and eases you through your day.
A routine gives you time within the day to rest without guilt that you should be doing something. You know your schedule; it allows you to get everything done. Rest is as vital as busyness. So having small segments of time to rest is essential for helping you fight your depression.
You’ll sleep better if you have a routine. Routine keeps you busy, so you’ll sleep at night. Being up and active in the day and sleeping at night is a healthy way to fight depression.
Routine helps you get things done. Scheduling keeps organized, so you’ll get everything done. This habit will make you feel successful and have a purpose.
There is a natural routine in nature that we can mimic. The sun rises and sets naturally. Seasons are predictable, flowers bloom and trees drop their leaves predictably. It only makes sense that we function well in a regular, routine way.

Therapy

If you suffer from depression, consider getting professional therapeutic help so you can better deal with the troublesome symptoms of depression. Therapists are trained specifically to help people who have depression. They can teach you helpful techniques to cope with your condition. Plus, therapists are trained to listen. It’s great to have someone with a listening ear, which is unbiased and has good suggestions for you. Your insurance may cover these depression treatments, so you aren’t burdened with extra expenses. Local churches sometimes offer counseling at a low cost by professionals. You can also check out your community for other places to get free depression counseling.

Yoga

When it comes to alternatives for depression treatment, Yoga is a proven means to fight the condition. Yoga means union in Sanskrit, a prominent Indian language. Yoga was established in India as a spiritual and physical meditative disciple. It involves breathing as well as exercises. It’s very popular today to improve balance and promote wellness. Yoga serves as a natural remedy for depression by:

Making you feel more relaxed and less stressed
Improving your mood
Soothing your mind and soul
Giving you exercise
Giving you more energy
Encourages deep breathing
Meditation can help ease depression symptoms

Acupuncture

Studies suggest that acupuncture may be a helpful natural remedy to ease some symptoms of depression. There are still more studies to do on this topic, but it’s safe to say there are some noticeable benefits. Acupuncture is the use of narrow, tiny needles inserted into specific areas to stimulate your body to heal. Some acupuncture practitioners use heat and pressure, too.

Supplements

These four supplements have been found to help with depression. Follow the directions on the labels, and don’t take all these at once. Try one supplement for a month to see if it provides relief from depression symptoms. If not, try another supplement for a month.

Fish oil-Studies find that your brain is especially nourished by polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega-6 and omega-3 oils found in fish. Omega-3s may be the most helpful with potential benefits to fight depression.
Vitamin D-You get Vitamin D from sunshine. This natural remedy can help fight depression. Some people suffer from low Vitamin D, especially in the winter or climates where there is less sunshine year-round.
Folic acid- Folic acid can help improve your mood. Studies show that folate or folic acid deficiency is conventional for people with depression. This outcome makes sense since when you’re depressed your eating habits change so, you may not get adequate nutrition.
SAMe-This supplement helps your brain cells by increasing the serotonin levels in your brain. Studies are still ongoing to see its total effectiveness. Never mix this with other anti-depression herbs like St. John’s Wort or an over-the-counter antidepressant due to serious side effects.

Support from family and friends

Having a healthy family and friends support network is essential when you’re depressed. If your family or friends aren’t supportive or feel like depression is just a simple fix, you can’t rely upon them for help. Instead, surround yourself with those people who get it. You want people who will listen and be emphatic but will encourage.

Eat a healthy diet

Diet can’t cure depression, but eating healthy foods helps your body function and can help you feel better, which in turn improves your mood. Studies show that these nutrients are antidepressants:

Folate
Iron
Magnesium
Selenium
Omega-3 fatty acids
Selenium
Omega-3 fatty acids
Vitamin B6
Thiamine
Vitamin B12
Vitamin A
Potassium
Zinc
Vitamin C

Eating foods high in these nutrients are natural remedies for depression. Meditteranean diets are rich in these nutrients. Here’s a list of some of the highest antidepressant foods you can eat.

Oysters
Clams
Crabs
Mussels
Octopus
Spinach
Mustard greens
Beet greens
Lettuce (red, green, romaine, swiss chard)
Kale
Chicory greens
Cauliflower
Broccoli
Strawberries
Lemon

These foods are noticeably the highest antidepressant food sources noted by NIH. Of course, you should add other highly nutritious foods such as

Low-fat meats like chicken
Beta-carotene rich vegetables like sweet potatoes or carrots or acorn squash
Whole grains like whole-wheat breads or brown rice
Berries such as blueberries and strawberries.

Avoid alcohol

Alcohol is a depressant. Drinking alcohol when you’re depressed, makes your depression worse. It’s best to avoid it altogether, or if you can’t do that, to at least cut back drastically. Find ways to relax beside an alcoholic drink—mix seltzer water with wine to create refreshing spritzers without being high in alcohol. You can also buy seltzers with lower alcohol. Find activities that don’t center around drinking. Ask your friends or family to hold you accountable, to stick to one glass of wine.

Faith

Studies found that having religious beliefs and practicing these may help you cope with your stress and depression. Having faith gives you meaning and hope, plus you have a group of people supporting you as you walk through the depression. Of course, having faith can’t cure you of depression, but it’s a useful tool for self-care and finding motivation in your life as you fight depression and its symptoms.

Final thoughts on utilizing natural depression treatments in lieu of prescription drugs

All these natural remedies may help treat your depression. Remember, these aren’t cures, and if your depression symptoms get worse or you feel suicidal, contact your doctor right away. Incorporating healthy eating, exercise, and Yoga will give you enormous benefits right away. Find support from family or friends and, if possible, locate a therapist to help you walk through your depression. Take it a day at a time and enjoy each day as a new chance to feel a bit happier.

Doctors Explain That Poor Vision Reveals These 9 Health Issues

June 24, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Your eyes are essential to see the beauty of nature and the face of your loved one. If you begin to experience poor vision, then it’s a cause for alarm. Many conditions can cause visual disruptions, and you need to have any vision issues evaluated immediately.

In most cases, your eye troubles are age-related and expected. It can also indicate that there’s something more malignant behind the visual changes. Here are the most common things that can cause poor vision.

1. Age

As you age, your vision will change. For some, the visual changes will be quite drastic. It’s common to require glasses to read and see things up close by the time you reach 40 years of age. Sadly, if you already had a problem with being nearside, then you will now require bifocal lenses. It’s exceedingly rare for a person to have 20/20 vision as they age.

One of the leading causes of visual changes is a loss of muscle strength in and around the eye. Eye muscle weakness will dictate how quickly your eye responds to light. The pupil is slower to react because the muscles aren’t as quick to stimulate the movements needed. Thus, your vision changes.

If you find that you are sensitive to bright lights as you age, this is a hallmark sign of a pupil that is slow to react. It’s best to have an anti-reflective coating added to your glasses, which helps to protect the eyes from lights that are too bright.

2. Dry Eye

Numerous things can cause dry eye, and one of the biggest culprits of this condition is medications. Prescription and herbal treatments that reduce the amount of fluid in the body can affect the eyes, causing them to dry out. It’s easy to treat this condition with artificial tears.

You should keep in mind that your eye needs lubrication to function correctly. If you fight a chronic dry eye, it can cause you to experience poor vision when the eyes are dehydrated.

Another common issue that causes dry eye is sitting in front of a computer screen or being on other electronics or long periods. The bright lights from the screens tend to be drying to the eye, and you don’t blink as much when you are engaged in a game.

3. Reduced Peripheral Vision

Your peripheral vision is the ability to see to the sides. You must have this ability for driving and other activities. If you lose your peripheral vision, then it’s said that you have tunnel vision.

It’s estimated that by the time you reach 70 years of age that you have already lost more than 30 degrees of your visibility. Those who are still driving when this happens must be careful, especially with their blind spots. Thankfully, some mirrors can be added to any vehicle to help extend the visual field for your safety.

Your peripheral vision will decrease about a degree each decade, so it’s something to pay close attention too as you age.

4. Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is usually age-related. Unfortunately, there’s nothing that you can do to prevent this visual disturbance. Sadly, each person will experience this as they age, but there are ways to slow down the progression of this disease before you go blind.

The macula is the sensitive area within the retina, and it deteriorates as you age. Once this area degenerates, it affects the central vision. Though it’s thought of as a condition that only affects those of advanced age, it can also occur if you have experienced an eye injury that affects the retina.

In most cases, MD progresses very slowly, but there are a few cases when it happens over a period. Those who have a slow progression will notice blank spots that appear in their central visual field. Though initially, this disease will not cause you to go blind, it will eventually take your sight in later stages.

As it progresses, you won’t have enough vision to read a book or clean your house. Sadly, you will eventually lose the ability to see the face of your loved ones. MD starts with little to no symptoms, so it’s essential to have a yearly eye examination to see any changes to the central visual field.

5. Cataracts

Developing a cataract is quite common in adults age 60 and older. There is a protective lens that covers your eye to filter out dirt and impurities. As this lens ages, it becomes cloudy and hard to see through. Think of it as a car window that is fogged-up from temperature fluctuations.

Lenses with protein buildup can make seeing impossible. Though you still have necessary visual abilities, you cannot drive at night, read a book, or make out the expression on your loved one’s face. These changes happen gradually, which gives you enough time to get treatment before you have poor vision that affects your daily life.

Early on, you won’t notice many changes to your site, but as the condition progresses, so does the visual problems. The lenses are foggy because of age and a protein buildup that forms on them. Sadly, these cloudy lenses are the most common cause of blindness in the world.

A surgeon can remove the clouded lens from your eye and replace it with a plastic one that allows you to see. Another option is to use sound waves to break up the protein layer and suction if from the lens. If you leave this condition untreated, it will cause complete vision loss.

6. Diabetic Retinopathy

Your blood sugar levels need to stay around 100 to 125 mg/dl. When your blood sugar consistently stays over 140 mg/dl, nerve damage occurs within the body. One of the major areas affected by high glucose levels is the eyes.

Diabetic retinopathy is a condition caused by high sugar levels in the body. The nerves in the eyes become damaged. The most common symptom of this condition is blurry vision, though you may experience dry eye too.

In some cases, the problem is temporary as sugar levels are too high and causing the eyes to react. However, if the glucose is left too high for too long, then the damage can become permanent. The first stages of diabetic retinopathy cause little to no symptoms, but eventually, it will progress to complete blindness.

With this condition, the body gives subtle warnings that your visual fields are being affected by the high sugar levels. Thankfully, if you heed this indication, you can reverse the problem and restore your sight. It’s estimated that there are more than 34.2 people in this country with Type 2, and over eight million individuals don’t know they have it.

It’s imperative to pay attention to any visual changes in your eyes, especially if you are at a high risk of developing Type II. Things that can increase your likelihood are obesity, family history, and a poor diet.

Here are seven hidden reasons why you are struggling to lose weight.

7. Floaters and Flashes

It’s completely normal to have floaters or flashes occur in your field of vision. The fluid that surrounds the eyes can get various debris in them as you age. The floaters you are seeing are merely shadows of that debris in the eye’s fluid.

Keep in mind that about 99 percent of the time, these nuances are harmless. However, an abnormal amount of this activity type can indicate a detached retina, which is a severe condition. A detached retina can cause poor vision or a complete loss, but floaters and flashers don’t cause such issues.

8. Glaucoma

When abnormally high pressure exists in the eyes, it causes damage to the optic nerve. This damage is known as glaucoma. This disease may not produce any symptoms, or you may have tunnel vision or blind spots.

If not treated, glaucoma causes complete blindness. Even those that do have treatment will likely lose their sight as time goes by. There are strong genetic links to this visual disturbance, so if it runs in your family, then it’s best to be checked.

9. Retinitis Pigmentosa

Retinitis Pigmentosa or RP is a hereditary condition that affects the retina inside the eye. The light-sensing cells within the eye become damaged, and the retina will slowly deteriorate. There is no cure for RP, and it affects more than one out of every 4,000 people.

Folks with RP usually notice changes to their colored vision and are disturbed by bright lights. Eventually, the entire visual field will be affected. RP almost always causes complete blindness, and no treatment is known to slow the progression.

Final Thoughts on Identifying the Causes of Poor Vision

Do you know what is considered normal visual changes as you age and what’s regarded as a cause for alarm? It’s common to have some changes as the body grows older, but some things are worrisome.

The best way to combat any vision problems is to have your yearly eye exam, especially as you age. Any changes that are troublesome to you need to be evaluated immediately. Putting off these matters can cause poor vision and blindness.

In some cases, the body is trying to tell you about an underlying problem, such as high glucose levels. Your prompt attention can save your sight and your life in these instances.

10 Ways to Move Out of the Friend Zone and Into A Relationship

June 24, 2020 by Power of Positivity

When it comes to relationships, there’s nothing worse than being stuck in the “friend zone.” When you long to be a lover, being trapped in this minimal position can cause you a significant internal struggle. Some people are afraid to move forward, while others battle conflicting emotions for months or years of their life.

It’s humiliating to be only thought of as “just a friend” when you desire so much more. Many times, people are afraid to take the next step because they’re worried they will lose a good friend, embarrass themselves by admitting their feelings, or are worried that it won’t work out. It’s complicated to make the shift from friend to lover, but you must follow your heart.

You can live in silent torment if you’re pining away after someone who is a close friend, and you want more. The long nights of hopelessly wanting and waiting for more seems unbearable. If you’re going to put your feelings on the line and still maintain a sense of dignity, then here are some ways to move beyond the “just friends” state.

10 Ways to Make it Out of the Friend Zone

1. Assess the Risk

There are significant risks to jumping out of the friend zone and into a relationship. What would happen if it doesn’t work out? Once you’ve crossed that line, it isn’t easy to go back to just friends. Can you handle the possibilities of them out of your life?

Make a pro and con list of how to handle the situation. Do the benefits outweigh the risks? Have there been any behaviors or indications from him or her that they want more? Think carefully before you make your next move.

2. Develop a Game Plan

Once you’re ready to get out of the friend zone, it’s time to formulate a plan. Do you want a romantic dinner by candlelight to tell them how you feel, or do you want to take them to a park surrounded by nature? It’s essential that you set the stage for the big announcement.

Make a straightforward plan of what you will say, where it will be, and how it will occur. Maybe you could take them to your favorite coffee shop to talk over a cup of Joe.

3. Find the Right Time

Timing is everything in life. You don’t want to ask for a person to leap out of the friend zone the week of finals. If their mind is already overwhelmed by everything going on, then you may not get a receptive response.

Additionally, they may not feel that they’re in a place to develop romantic attachments with so much other stuff going on. It’s best to find the right moment. Then again, there may never be a perfect time, and you shouldn’t prolong the conversation as it only extends your torment.

4. Empower Yourself with Confidence

Whether you’re a man or woman doesn’t matter, it’s challenging to speak up when your dignity is on the line. You must use courage over your fear to tell the other person how you feel. If you don’t take the chance to speak up about your feelings, you may lose them to someone more open and honest.

You need to muster up all the internal strength you can find to tell this person the truth. Remember, you have nothing to lose by being honest, and you might gain everything. It’s always better to be upfront and truthful than to sit by and remain quiet and frustrated.

5. Don’t Go Straight to Sexual Places

If you’ve never had a talk with your friend about being more than just buddies, you shouldn’t go right to sex talk. Sure, they’re smoking hot and sexy, and you dream about making love to them, but if you come out of the gate with this statement, you may scare them away.

It would be best if you told them why you feel so strongly about them. List their qualities that you find attractive such as their eyes or hair. Also, you should bring out things about them that you appreciate beyond physical beauty.

If you want to give your conversation power and merit, then you need to speak your heart. There will be plenty of time for romance later. Right now, you need to get down to business with a serious conversation about your future.

6. Have a Conversation Face-to-Face

There are some conversations that you don’t have by text or by email, and flipping from a friend to a lover is one of them. It’s easy to send a text and wait anxiously for them to answer, but it’s best to look them eye-to-eye and tell them how you feel.

The direct contact and body language let them know that you are serious about them. The other party needs to see how much this means to you. They need to hear the conviction in your voice and see the warmth in your eyes.

It’s easier to say “no” when you’re sending a text, but it’s more challenging to deny true feelings in a person to person setting.

7. Don’t Beg

You want to keep your dignity intact in case this conversation doesn’t go the way you want. Try to come up with a statement that is a few sentences at most. You want to get to the point and stop chattering.

Don’t beg or plead or make bargains for someone to want you as more than friends. Either there’s more there, or there isn’t. You need to state your peace and then give him or her time to say how they feel. Always speak directly to them and be confident. Don’t hesitate or stutter over your words.

8. Be Honest with Yourself

Regardless of how things went down, you need to be honest with yourself. If they didn’t give you the answer you want, don’t hold on thinking they will change their mind. You are only wasting precious time that you could spend with someone else.

If they admitted that they have feelings for you and want to move out of the friend zone, you need to be honest enough to realize this changes everything. Once you cross from friends to lovers, there’s no going back to the way things were.

9. Make Them Miss You

If you didn’t get the answer you want, or they need time to think about things, then you need to give them some space. One of the best tricks in the book is to make them miss you so that they can see how much they genuinely care about you.

Being in the friend zone for an extended period can mess with your mind. While men and women can certainly be friends, there’s always that inner drive that makes one or both want more at some point and time. If they’re unsure how they feel about moving on from the friend zone, spending some time apart may be just what they need to sort out their feelings.

10. Admit Defeat and Move On, If Necessary

You don’t want to hang around any longer than you need too. If you’ve put your feelings on the table, then things will never go back to the way they used to be. If they don’t want any romantic attachments with you, then cut your losses.

There are very few times in these instances where you can salvage the friendship as most of the time. People will go their separate ways. When one wants to be romantically involved, and the other wants to be just friends, it doesn’t work. Admit the relationship was never meant to be, and simply move on.

Here are the signs that reveal your guy friend is interested in romance.

Final Thoughts on Admitting Defeat if You Do Not Break out of the Friend Zone

The old saying states that it’s better to have loved and lost than never to have experienced love at all. Perhaps, Alfred Lord Tennyson was never stuck in the friend zone when he made such a statement. Still, with each time you give a piece of your heart away, it’s one part of it that you can’t get back.

There is no better feeling than love. It can get you through the darkest nights and give you a reason to get up in the morning. Sadly, there is also no more considerable pain than that of lost or unrequited love.

Think long and hard before you attempt to make the jump from friends to lovers. There is much at stake, and this move will change everything. Try some friendly flirting first and see how and if they respond to your subtle advances.

It’s always best to have some assurance before you take the plunge, but sometimes you must close your eyes and jump!

10 Quirky Habits to Avoid That Probably Annoy Your Partner

June 24, 2020 by Power of Positivity

“All is fair in love and war,” or at least that’s what the famous adage says. Being head over heels in love with someone is fantastic, but that doesn’t mean that their quirky little habits won’t drive you batty.

Did you know that most relationships end over silly things, and many of these personal habits can be changed?

Now, you should never go into a relationship with the hopes that you will change someone’s ways. If they’ve been leaving the cap off the toothpaste for 20 years, it’s highly doubtful that you are going to make them turn over a new leaf. Thankfully, some people are willing to change or do better and put their quirky little habits to the side of the sake of love.

Ten Quirky Habits That Annoy Others

These twelve red flags might reveal that your partner is secretly hiding something from you.

So what are the most annoying personal habits that can drive another person mad? You might be surprised that things like throwing clothes on the floor and drinking out of the milk jug didn’t make the cut. You probably won’t be shocked by the items on the list, and if you do some of these things, then maybe it’s time to change.

1. Avoiding Domestic Obligations

While cleaning isn’t high on anyone’s list, it certainly is an essential part of a relationship when you live together. Guys tend to leave the toilet seat up and the sink full of dishes. A clean home is always a happier home.

Did you know that when you have a clean and organized space, it can help you to relax? There is some psychology behind having your home in order. Some people cannot function in chaos, be it in their home or work. So if you’re not a domestic god or goddess, then this is something that can annoy the other person.

2. Releasing Bodily Gasses

Everyone has gas from time to time. Whether it’s breaking wind from your backside or burping, it’s not a pleasant experience for those around you. There is no way you can stop the inner churnings of your body, but you can be discreet about how you relieve yourself.

If you feel the urge to burp, then cover your hand with your mouth to avoid any foul smells from protruding out. It’s also polite to say excuse me when this happens. If you must break wind, then, if possible, excuse yourself to the other room. No woman or man wants someone passing gas continuously while they are watching a movie or at dinner.

A “slip out” occasionally is acceptable and considered normal. However, if you’re always having these issues, then buy some gas reliever pills or leave the room as a courtesy. You may need to change your diet or see your doctor if your need to relieve gas becomes excessive.

Here are twenty things that cause humans to fart.

3. Talking About Ex-Lovers

Everyone has a past, but you don’t want to hear about their past time and again. While you need to be transparent with your partner about who you’ve been with, they don’t want to listen to his or her name repetitively.

The worst thing a person can do is compare you to their ex-lover. Get everything out on the table at the beginning of your relationship, and you should leave the past behind you and move forward. If you continuously mention a past lover, then they may feel that you still have feelings for that person that you haven’t resolved, which may be the truth.

4. Sleeping Too Late

One of the worst personal habits that can drive your partner crazy is when one person sleeps half the day. Are you a night owl, and your partner is an early bird? You must be on somewhat of the same page for your relationship to work.

If your partner hits the gym at 6 am and has half of the day done by the time you get out of bed, it can be a real issue. Try to get on a similar schedule that works for both of you. Staying up too late and sleeping all day can mess with your circadian rhythms and even your mental health.

5. Inappropriate PDA Balance

Public displays of affection mean a lot to some people, and others try to avoid them. It would help if you discussed your preferences on this matter at the beginning of the relationship, or it can be a quirky habit that is a source of contention.

Some people don’t like to draw attention to themselves or their bodies while in public. If you want to melt into the room and your partner wants to be the center of attention, things can get uncomfortable.

6. Always Negative

It’s hard to be positive 100 percent of the time, but it can bring you down when someone is always negative. Do you find that your partner tends to be a pessimist while you are more of an optimist? No one likes to be around a “Debbie Downer” or a “Negative Nelly,” so you need to bring attention to this quirky habit.

Call them out on their negativity, and you should give them tips and tricks for looking towards the sunny side of life. Sure, there are things that you can focus on that can be extremely uncomfortable to deal with, but your attitude will dictate everything.

Recognize the signs of a spark between two people.

7. They Talk Down to You

No one wants to be with someone who puts them down or acts superior. If you feel like you don’t do anything right in your partner’s eyes, then it may be time to move on. People who are talking down to you are trying to cope with insecurities within themselves.

There is usually a reason why people are looking or speaking condescendingly to you, and most of the time, the issue has nothing to do with you. Some may call this a quirk, but it isn’t polite to put yourself in a lofted position and look down on those around you, especially your partner.

8. Constantly on The Phone

There is nothing more infuriating than someone who is on their phone 24/7. If you are trying to talk to them, but they are too busy playing games, answering texts, or taking calls, it speaks volumes about their interest in you. There should be a dedicated time for you to talk on the phone, and there should be time to spend with your partner.

Don’t play second fiddle to an electronic device as they may have a smartphone addiction. Your relationship must be significant enough to put the phone down, and your partner should listen to what you have to say.

9. Doesn’t Like Your Friends

Your partner is not going to like every one of your friends, but there should be some mutual respect. Understand that your significant other has a life outside of you. Just because you’re in a committed union doesn’t mean that you should lose your individuality.

There is usually an underlying battle about friendships. Guys don’t like giggly girls hanging out at the house, and women don’t want the buddies hanging around playing poker. Some people forget their buddies when they start dating seriously. If your partner doesn’t like your friends, they don’t need to be down on them or wanting you to avoid spending time with them either.

10. They Don’t Care About Their Outward Appearance

Call it quirky or downright disgusting, but some people have horrible hygiene. There’s nothing worse than someone who doesn’t have very high regard for the way they look or smell when they’re in public. It can be very embarrassing if your partner hasn’t washed their hair in days, or their shirt is so dirty that it could stand up in the corner alone.

You can ask someone to shower more, use deodorant, or wear some perfume/cologne, but you can’t make a person who has lackluster hygiene change. If someone would rather wear a wrinkled shirt and soiled jeans to the store with bedroom slippers, you should have a serious talk with them about their appearance and how it affects you.

Final Thoughts on Working Through Annoying and Quirky Habits

Coming together to form a union, whether through marriage or a verbal commitment, can be a difficult task. You will always find all these little quirks and habits that drive you crazy about your lover. What you can’t do is let these habits define your relationship.

There are some quirks that you can and should put up with as part of being a couple. However, there’s a big difference in missing the trash pickup a couple of times and talking down to you. You must evaluate if the relationship is healthy enough to sustain the good and bad times.

Many people think that they’re in love when they start dating. Consequently, true love doesn’t occur until you’ve seen a person at their best and their worst. Once you’ve sat beside someone at a hospital, funeral, or held their head while they were sick and vomiting, it’s only during these storms of life that you truly learn to love and respect each other.

Lust fades, but a commitment build on true love will withstand the test of time. Does your partner have quirky habits, of course, they do? You must ask yourself if these little habits are relationship breakers.

How to Make an Oatmeal Bath to Soothe Chapped Skin and Sunburn

June 24, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Your skin is a protective covering for your whole body, and it is also your largest organ. You’ve spent a lifetime cleaning and nurturing your skin, so it will continue to make you look youthful and radiant. An old-fashioned oatmeal bath can be a comforting part of your daily beauty routine.

Unlike many of your vital organs, much of your skin is exposed to the elements, especially the sun. How you care for your complexion now will be evident when you are older. Fashion icon Coco Channel once observed that although nature gives us a beautiful face in youth, we all will get the skin we deserve when we’re older.

Yesterday’s Tan is Tomorrow’s Wrinkles

Remember when sunbathing was popular in earlier decades? Hollywood insisted that a sun-kissed complexion was the ideal beauty. People of all ages donned sunglasses and rubbed themselves down with coconut oil for the perfect bronze body. Their sun worship often led to sunburn and permanent skin damage.

You can usually recognize those who were sunbathers in the past. Many of these people have prematurely aged with tell-tale wrinkles and dark, leathery skin. Unfortunately, sun damage often causes skin cancer and other dermatological maladies. Are you paying for basking in solar rays when you were younger?

Since medical experts have spread the warning about the dangers of overexposure to the sun, most people have responded accordingly. Do you practice skin safety in the sun? Some of these best practices include sunscreen, wearing hats and light clothing, and avoiding the sun during peak hours.

Despite your best efforts, you may come home from the beach or pool with an accidental sunburn. They can range from mild redness and irritation to severe burns with blistering and pain. If you have a severe burn with blisters, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Mild burns will often sting for a while, then fade into intense itching and skin peeling. It can be miserable when you are trying to go to sleep. What can you do to soothe your irritated skin?

Eliminating Eczema

Another skin complication that many people experience is eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis. Dermatologists have recognized at least six different skin conditions and say that patients can have one or more types simultaneously. These skin experts estimate that at least 30 million Americans battle atopic dermatitis every year.

While environment and other variables may come into play, the cause of atopic dermatitis remains a mystery. If you have been diagnosed with this common skin ailment, you’re all too familiar with its symptoms. You’re usually plagued with dry, patchy skin that is continuously itching and flaking.

One of the strange things about atopic dermatitis is that it can flare up when you least expect. Then, the symptoms can disappear and not return for weeks. Because of this, some dermatologists suspect that atopic dermatitis and its variants could be an autoimmune disorder.

How can you find natural relief from this bothersome skin ailment? Countless people say that a warm oatmeal bath does the trick. It calms the nagging itch and rehydrates dry, flaky skin.

Knowing Your Skin Type

Dermatologists usually place our complexions in four categories: normal, oily, dry, or combination. While genetics play a significant role in your skin type, your lifestyle and environment also are key contributors. Each skin type may be sensitive, which creates another set of issues.

You may identify with one skin type or a combination. Many people have dry skin and have issues with an oily T-zone, the area of the forehead, nose, and chin. Season changes, weather, and hormonal fluctuations are often problematic for your skin, regardless of your type.

Not only can a warm, healing oatmeal bath benefit dry, flaky skin, but it can help any type. Oatmeal can dry excess skin oil and act as a gentle exfoliant to prevent pimples. People with sensitive skin attest to its gentle cleansing action that’s free of irritating chemicals or additives.

Oatmeal isn’t Just for Breakfast

When you were growing up, you probably enjoyed warm oatmeal for breakfast. For hundreds of years, oats have been a major cereal crop that provided nutritious food for people and animals. It’s a beloved grain around the world, especially in Scotland and Ireland.

This hearty grain is packed with vital vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Numerous medical studies confirm that using oats topically can also nourish your skin. Oats ground into oatmeal is easier to dissolve in water for a beneficial skin soak, and it’s best to use the whole steel-cut variety.

Many bath and beauty products advertise natural ingredients, like oatmeal. You’ll often see it in soaps, shampoos, and skin products. Sometimes oats are listed by its Latin name, Avena sativa.

Here are skincare tips, according to your zodiac sign.

It isn’t surprising that many of these so-called natural products contain chemicals and artificial ingredients that can irritate sensitive skin. These fad beauty products tend to be a little pricey, too. The good news is that you can use inexpensive oats for a DIY oatmeal bath every day.

How to Create an Oatmeal Bath

Does your skin feel irritated, dry, and itchy from overexposure to the sun or from skin conditions like atopic dermatitis? Is your complexion oilier than usual, and you see more acne outbreaks? Or, maybe your skin looks dull and needs to be revitalized.

For any of these conditions, look no further than your pantry. Our ancestors used natural ingredients they kept at home for health and beauty remedies. Oats were one of their top choices when it came to skin conditions.

Do you want to soothe burning skin and nourish it at the same time? Try a soothing oatmeal bath, and you may see a calming difference. Here are some quick tips on preparing this natural and therapeutic bath.

• A Recipe for Success

Read how adding rosewater to your beauty routine can lower your stress levels.

Oats are probably one of the cheapest yet most nutritious grain on the grocer’s shelves. For your bath, purchase the old-fashioned rolled variety, not the steel-cut oats. You needn’t buy the most expensive name brand since a bargain one will do just as well.

The Internet is loaded with recipes to create an oatmeal mix for bathing. It is up to you whether you prefer plain oatmeal or want to add other beneficial ingredients. Here is a basic recipe that works well for dry or sun-kissed skin. You will need:

A blender
½ cup ground oatmeal
1 cup whole milk, or goat’s milk
½ cup honey
¼ cup almond oil
Ten drops of your favorite essential oil, like lavender

Put the oatmeal in your blender and pulse it at high speed until it turns into a coarse flour. Add the milk, honey, almond oil, and essential oil and blend for about three seconds or until totally blended. Pour the mixture into a sealable container and use it within three days.

Feel free to experiment with other recipes to find the ones that you like best. Since these mixtures don’t have preservatives, they can’t be stored for long periods. If you notice that your bathing mixture is making your skin condition worse, discontinue using it.

• Adding Moisturizers and Essential Oils

The first recipe incorporated milk, honey, and almond oil for a boost of hydration for your skin. Some other moisturizers you can consider adding are aloe, lanolin, coconut oil, or shea butter. Most essential oils have antibacterial and antifungal properties, and they lend a calming fragrance to your bath.

Feel free to experiment with other recipes to find the ones that you like best. Since these mixtures don’t have preservatives, they can’t be stored for long. If you notice that your bathing mixture is making your skin condition worse, discontinue using it.

• How to Use Your Oatmeal Beauty Bath

Oatmeal is so gentle that dermatologists often recommend it for the most sensitive skin. A warm, soothing oatmeal bath can be mild enough for your baby’s skin, as directed by your pediatrician. Some people can be allergic to oats and should avoid using it in their bathing or beauty regimens.

It’s best to use your oatmeal mixture within three days, immediately if possible. Hot water isn’t good for dry or irritated skin, so fill your bathtub with warm water. It’s up to you if you want to wash with soap or just use this instance as a therapeutic soak.

As the tap is running, add the full container of the oatmeal mixture into the water. The force of the water will disperse the mix throughout the tub. Before you get in, you might use your body brush to stir the water for a better distribution of the oatmeal.

Sit back in the tub, soak, and relax. Use a clean, soft washcloth to rub the oatmeal-infused water gently over your body. If you like, light candles and burn incense for total tranquility and relaxation.

An oatmeal bath is also an effective natural remedy for eczema.

Final Thoughts on Enjoying a Comforting Oatmeal Bath

There’s no need to fill your tub with chemicals that can enhance your water when nature provides everything you need. If you want to love the skin you’re in, then using oatmeal is an excellent way to soothe it and make it look amazing. Oatmeal exfoliates and promotes healing and rejuvenation.

10 Science-Backed Benefits of Manuka Honey

June 24, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Thanks to the generosity of the humble honeybee, we share a sweet sensation called manuka honey. Historical accounts mention its discovery and use as far back as 4000 BCE. Its imitable sweetness has been preserved in art, literature, and our terms of endearment.

A Honey of a History Lesson

Just about every culture in history and modern times has a love affair with the golden elixir known as honey. Did you know that archeologists have found preserved jars of honey in the royal tombs of ancient Egypt? Hieroglyphics depict how the Egyptians adored honey for food and medicine and venerated their honeybee benefactors.

This heavenly nectar had prominent roles in early Asian, Greek, and Roman civilizations. Some cultures savored honey so much that it was often used as a currency or for a prospective husband to present to the family of his bride-to-be.

How could our industrious honeybee friends ever improve on such a perfect food? Countless studies suggest that honey is loaded with vitamins and minerals and has significant antibiotic and antifungal properties. However, it may have powered up as a type called manuka honey.

The Birds, Bees, Flowers, and Trees

If you are a honey connoisseur, you realize that its color, consistency, aroma, and taste are contingent on the flowers the honeybees visited. It ranges from the lightest honey from acacia pollen to the darkest buckwheat honey and across the spectrum.

Unfortunately, the only honey familiar to many Americans is the watered-down versions often found in grocery stores. Those cute plastic containers shaped like bears aren’t an accurate representation of the vast flavor nuances in pure honey.

What is Manuka Honey?

During the eras of European colonization, travelers introduced European honeybees wherever they settled. When British colonies were established in Australia in the 19th century, their honeybees relied on native flora for honey production, mainly from species of manuka bushes.

These fragrant flowering shrubs are native to Australia and New Zealand. Indigenous people in both island nations valued manuka varieties for their impressive medicinal properties. European honeybees were drawn to the blooms of manuka and produced thick, ebony honey from its pollen.

However, many locals often didn’t appreciate the dark, robust honey, which sometimes ended up flavoring livestock feed. It wasn’t until almost a century later in the 1980s that Dr. Peter Molan and other scientists discovered that this honey carried the same medicinal properties as manuka plants.

When these multiple studies demonstrated several health benefits of manuka honey, it became a health food buzzword. Today, certified pure manuka honey commands a premium price. Australia and New Zealand continue a heated debate as to which country has the rights to the name.

New Zealanders claim that since their bees only visit the main species of manuka, they deserve the rights. In the United States, you can purchase this fragrant honey in its pure form, as a food ingredient, or in supplements. Before you complete the sale, be sure that the honey you’re considering is certified pure and isn’t blended with corn syrup or water.

Is buying this unique honey worth your time and money? Is it any more beneficial than other varieties? Consider these ten benefits of manuka honey as a natural remedy.

1. Caring for Wound

Sometimes, you may not have a triple antibiotic ointment to dress a wound. Reach for the honey of the manuka bush instead. If you have a scrape or minor cut, simply dab some of the honey on a waterproof dressing and place it over the wound.

The antibacterial properties of this natural wonder will protect the wound from dirt and will kill invading germs. Remember to change the dressing frequently as the wound heals. If the injury is deep or becomes infected, seek medical attention immediately.

2. Building Your Immune System

Are you searching for a way to boost your immune system naturally? Medical reports show promising results from using manuka variety of honey. Scientists have discovered that it encourages white blood cell production to resist illness and disease or fight those already present in your body.

Use it the way you enjoy other honey varieties and add stir it into your morning tea or oatmeal. It can also help your digestive system. Some people also savor a little honey on their toast.

3. Honey-Kissed Complexion

Do you battle dry skin and other dermatological issues? This healing honey makes a superb facial mask that will soothe dry, irritated skin, and eczema. If you have acne, the honey’s antibacterial properties can kill and wash away harmful bacteria that cause breakouts.

Use a few tablespoons of honey to rub directly on your face to create a mask. Leave it on to saturate your skin for at least 15-20 minutes. Use a clean washcloth and warm water to gently wash the honey mask from your face, leaving a healthy glowing complexion.

4. Honey Makes Your Smile

If you want a clean bill of health on your next dentist visit, you might consider using this honey. It has naturally occurring hydroperoxide, which kills the germs responsible for tooth decay and gingivitis. Instead of toothpaste, use this honey on your toothbrush to promote dental health and freshen your breath.

Learn four ways to remove harmful plaque from your teeth.

5. Lower Your Bad Cholesterol

By now, you’ve probably talked to your professional healthcare provider about the importance of regulating your harmful cholesterol levels. Elevated levels of bad cholesterol, or LDL, create fatty deposits in your circulatory system, causing clogged arteries.

When this happens, you are at risk for a heart attack or stroke. Scientific evidence shows the promise of this honey variety lowering your LDL levels. Remember never to reduce or stop your prescribed cholesterol medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

6. Healthy Hair and Nails

Using honey from manuka not only benefits your skin, but it is also a natural remedy for healthier hair and nails. Age, lifestyle, and environment can play havoc on these protein-based features and makes them dry, brittle, and dull.

Use it as a hair conditioner, rub a couple of tablespoons through your wet hair, wrap it up in a towel and allow it to sit for about 20 minutes. Rinse with fresh water as usual. You can also use honey to condition your nails to strengthen them and encourage them to grow.

7. Breathe Easier With Manuka Honey

Anyone with respiratory issues knows how miserable it can make a person feel. Have you been diagnosed with chronic sinus infections or bronchitis? Many people around the world have found relief when they make this honey part of their diet or enjoy tea.

It has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, which helps build a defense against nasal allergies or upper respiratory issues. It can also help treat those who have seasonal allergies or asthma. Of course, honey shouldn’t be used as a replacement for your prescribed medication or treatment, but as a complementary agent.

8. It Can Help Type 2 Diabetes

Although this honey is delightfully sweet, it does have a lower glycemic index than regular sugar. People with Type 2 diabetes can often eat sparing amounts of honey without raising their sugar levels. Some studies suggest that manuka properties may lower blood sugar in some instances.

Consult your healthcare professional about using manuka honey as part of your prescribed diabetic diet. It is still a sugar and should be used with caution while you monitor your blood glucose levels. Since everyone is different, honey may not be right for you.

9. Manuka Honey Can Fight Inflammation

Medical specialists say that inflammation plays a crucial role in most of our sicknesses and disease. White blood cells rush to defend the body against invading microbes, bring more heat and blood flow to the area. The result is painful inflammation.

Did you know that you can have inflammation problems without realizing it? Some people who eat honey everyday notice a change in their inflammatory conditions. There are even reports of people with cancer who have benefited from daily honey doses.

10. Manuka May Help Heal Ulcers

Ulcers on the skin or in the digestive tract are painful and can be life-threatening. While they are healing, these virtual holes are at risk for invading bacteria. Manuka honey has shown promise as a healing and protective agent with these ulcers.

Many hospitals and wound clinics over the world offer ulcer dressings saturated with medical-grade honey. It soothes the irritated ulcer while it blocks germs that can cause infection. Taken internally, it can also benefit gastrointestinal ulcers.

Researchers reveal what happens to your body when you drink honey-water daily.

Final Thoughts: A Sweet Conclusion About Manuka Honey

As with any honey variety, never give manuka to children under a year old. Honey may also interfere with certain medications and chemotherapy drugs. If you are allergic to bees, you should stay away from manuka or anything made with it.

If you want to enhance your immunity and general well-being, manuka honey may play a role. Enjoy it in moderation and discontinue if you notice any unusual side effects. Kudos to our honeybee neighbors for sharing food that can benefit us all.

How to Use Castile Soap to Clean Your Home and Body (No Chemicals)

June 23, 2020 by Power of Positivity

No matter where you are, germs are around. They’re in the air, on your food, water, and even on your body. Luckily, your immune system regulates the majority of these germs. For the bacteria that your immune system doesn’t eliminate, you’ll need a great cleanser.

With the number of toxins and chemicals in commercial cleansers, you’re putting you and everyone in your home in danger. To remove germs and stay healthy, you need a gentle cleanser. A great natural cleanser for your body and home is castile soap.

What’s in Castile Soap?

One of the most significant aspects of Castile soap is its healthy ingredients. For one, Castile doesn’t use animal byproducts or harsh chemicals. Often, they use vegetable oil bases mixed with essential oils and natural fragrances.

When you purchase this soap, you’re likely to find some of these ingredients:

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has a variety of health benefits. It’s excellent for healing burns and wounds. It’s also known for its antimicrobial properties and protects the teeth, hair, and skin.

Hemp Oil

Hemp oil is excellent for all skin types, mainly since it works without clogging your pores. If you suffer from chapped skin or inflammation, then hemp seed oil also acts as a natural pain reliever. You can also use hemp seed oil for hair growth. Hemp oil strengthens the hair follicles and improves scalp health.

Avocado Oil

Avocado oil protects against UV radiation, skin damage, and heals irritated and chapped skin. Typically, avocado oil acts as a beneficial carrier oil in numerous beauty regimens.

Depending on which castile soap you use, they’re typically scented with essential oil. Popular essential oils used to fragrance this soap are lavender, peppermint, and tea tree oil. In addition to their unique smells, essential oils have excellent cleaning properties.

For instance, tea tree oil is a great cleaning agent based on its ability to clean mold and mildew. Tea tree oil also has antiseptic and antiviral properties. Lavender essential oil is antimicrobial, antibacterial, and works as a disinfectant.

Lavender also promotes a calming effect that lasts after cleaning.

Peppermint essential oil is an excellent disinfectant. It’s also great for naturally eliminating pests like insects and rodents from your home. Unlike other pest repellents, these are safe for pets and children to inhale.

You can purchase this soap in liquid and bar form. If necessary, you can convert the bar into liquid form. Based on its healthy, natural ingredient list, Castile soap can be an expensive cleaning agent.

Luckily, it’s concentrated enough to clean after being diluted–and quite effectively. And, of course, you cannot hang a price tag on better health. Right?

Learn why essential oils are safer for housecleaning.

15 Ways to Use Castile Soap to Cleanse Your Home and Body

This cleanser is one of the few soaps gentle enough to cleanse the body but strong enough to clean your house. Although it’s lather isn’t as prominent as commercial soaps, it’s still working. Often, chemicals in soap cause them to foam or froth.

Castile soap is a great cleaning agent for nearly any surface. Here’s a list of ways to utilize this gentle cleanser.

1. Wound Cleaner

Everyone, from time to time, gets a minor wound around the house. Whether it’s a paper cut or a knee scrape, you’ll need to clean the wound to avoid infection. The chemicals in commercial soaps frequently burn, making it difficult to clean the injury effectively.

When you use Castile to cleanse your wounds, you’re also adding healing agents that speed up your recovery.

Add two teaspoons of soap to 2 cups of filtered water. A study proved using this cleansing mixture minimized the risk of wound complications. Best of all, your children can use this solution as they learn to cleanse their wounds.

2. Laundry Detergent

Chemicals and toxins in name brand laundry detergents not only irritate the skin but cause your clothes to deteriorate quickly. When making your detergent, mix a bar of shredded or 2 cups of liquid soap with one cup of baking soda. Baking soda acts as an exfoliant and helps remove dirt from your garments.

If you’d like scented laundry with an extra bit of cleaning power, add 30 drops of essential oils to your mixture. Mix these ingredients in an airtight container and use up to a quarter cup per large load. If necessary, adjust the amount of detergent, especially for delicate or smaller loads.

3. Shampoo

Some people struggle with growing robust and healthy hair. They don’t realize it’s their store-bought shampoo. Commercial shampoos use plastics, dyes, and chemicals that make hair dry and brittle.

Some even disrupt your scalp’s natural balance, which interferes with growth. Making your shampoo allows you to customize your cleaning routine based on your specific hair and scalp needs.

When washing your hair, there are two effective methods. You can either use a small amount of pure soap or a premade mixture.

Wet your hair and apply a small amount of undiluted soap to your hair and scalp. Even though it doesn’t lather like traditional shampoos, your hair will get clean.

For premixed shampoo, add one cup of water and one tablespoon of soap to a container and lightly shake. If you have a bottle with a pump or pourable lid, you’ll have better portion control. Wet your hair and apply the soap to your scalp and strands.

4. Facial Cleanser

This mild soap is excellent for cleaning your skin without stripping your natural oils. Wet your face and apply a few drops of soap to your face. After lathering, rinse, and pat dry before applying toner and moisturizer.

5. Body Wash

In addition to a facial cleanser, you can also use it on your body. Simply add a few drops to your washcloth or loofah for additional exfoliating and shower as usual.

6. All-Purpose House Cleaner

From countertops to toilet seats, Castile soap is strong enough to clean multiple surfaces. Add up to 2 cups of soap to a quart of water. You can strengthen your mixture with 20-30 drops of essential oil. Additionally, the essential oils provide a clean and fresh smell to your household.

Add your mixture to a spray bottle and spray your surfaces. Let sit for a couple of minutes and wipe clean.

7. Mop Solution

If you have pets or small children, you need a natural cleanser to keep your floor clean. Mix a half cup of soap with three gallons of hot water for a mopping solution. You can even spray your all-purpose mixture on the floor and follow up with your mopping solution.

8. Toothpaste

Ingredients like coconut oil are great for cleaning and strengthening enamel. It’s an acquired taste, but adding a couple of drops to your toothbrush keeps your teeth clean. You can also add peppermint essential oil to boost benefits.

9. Produce Cleaner

Both conventional and organic products come with dirt and other contaminants on their journey to the grocery store. By adding a tablespoon of this soap to a sink full of water, you can clean your produce. Be sure to rinse off the soap before eating thoroughly.

10. Makeup Remover

Commercial makeup removers contain harsh chemicals that can hurt your skin. For a natural alternative, mix one-part soap with one part carrier oil. Dip a cotton ball into your mixture and remove makeup.

11. Pet Wash

This gentle cleansing agent is versatile enough to clean your pets. The amount of soap you use depends on the size of your dog and their hair. If possible, avoid using essential oils and avocado oil on your pet in case of a reaction.

12. Bug Repellent

If bugs eat your plants, you can create a bug repellent for your garden. Mix a quarter cup of soap with a quart of water in a spray bottle and spray your plants. Try a spot test before spraying your garden.

13. Shaving Cream

When you shave, you need a lubricant to minimize cuts and scrapes. Start by wetting your shaving area and add several drops of soap. This process creates a slippery surface that helps your razor glide as it cuts your hair.

14. Dish Soap

When you clean dishes, the chemicals in soap linger on your dishware. Instead, add several drops of soap to your wet washcloth or sponge and clean your dishes.

15. Glass Cleaner

Not only does glass cleaner contain chemicals, but it can also be expensive. By mixing two teaspoons of soap, 2 cups of water, and a half cup of vinegar, you’ll have a natural, affordable, streak-free glass cleaner.

Final Thoughts on Using Castile Soap for Natural Cleansing

Castile soap is beneficial for the entire family. If you’re worried about your baby or smaller children, several brands offer tear-free Castile solutions. Based on its all-natural ingredient list, you don’t need to worry about chemical reactions and skin irritation.

Whether you want to use this soap for beauty or household care, its versatility makes it an excellent investment. Even if it appears a bit pricey, it saves money based on its ability to replace your commercial cleaners.

If you care about the overall wellness of your entire family, consider purchasing a bottle of castile soap. You’ll immediately see an improvement in your cleanliness and health.

Eastern Medicine Reveals How Face Mapping Exposes Hidden Stress

June 22, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Face mapping began in China around 3,000 years ago, and they believe this practice can show one’s inner health, as well as expose hidden stress. Most people deal with occasional skin breakouts and redness and usually turn to skin creams for relief. However, Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine state that skin problems point to underlying health issues, so skin creams just serve as a bandage for the real problem.

Practitioners of face mapping say that each area of the face corresponds to different organs. And that when one goes out of balance, the skin will reflect it. The Chinese believe that an energy force, called qi, or chi, flows to and from organs on invisible pathways in the body. Below, we’ll go over what face mapping can tell you about different aspects of your health, and typical lifestyle habits that sabotage our well-being.

What is face mapping?

Enjoy the benefits of a spa facial at home using a cucumber face mask. 15 Recipes to try.

First of all, let’s talk a little about what face mapping entails, and how you can use it to analyze your health. Face mapping considers many aspects of what makes up a person’s health, such as allergies, stress levels, hormones, genetics, diet, age, personality, and body type (or dosha, in Ayurveda). Most people seek a face mapping practitioner due to acne, as flare-ups in certain areas mean that specific organs have an imbalance.

However, you can also use face mapping for skin conditions such as redness, wrinkles, rashes from skin allergies, and other facial conditions. While Ayurveda and Chinese medicine have slight differences in face maps, they divide the face into at least ten zones corresponding to various organs.

Here’s how each area of the face corresponds to a different organ, and what that means for your health:

Pimples on the forehead — governed by the bladder and small intestine, may be tied to unmanaged stress, poor digestion and lack of sleep.
Breakouts between/above your eyebrows or nose — corresponds to an imbalance in the stomach, kidneys, liver, bladder, or spleen. If you notice acne near your nostrils, it may represent an imbalance of gut bacteria and inflammation in the small intestine.
Lines or wrinkles near the eyes or between eyebrows — can indicate repressed negative emotions or a poor diet. Represents problems with the liver or spleen
Breakouts or lines above the eyebrows — correspond to problems with the heart.
Puffiness under the eyes — poor kidney function, likely due to inadequate water intake
Acne below the lips and on the jaw — hormone imbalance, problems with the reproductive system, as well as the large intestine, colon, and stomach. If acne forms below the mouth, it could mean an imbalance in the entire digestive tract. For women, especially, it could mean a problem with the hormones.
Red cheeks — usually mean a blockage in the stomach or respiratory system. May indicate gut bacteria imbalance. Breakouts here point to allergies or sinus problems.
Red nose — redness or blackheads on the nose may mean heart troubles or high blood pressure.
Irritation on your neck — points to stress that affects the immune system.

While face mapping is widely used in Eastern cultures to diagnose illnesses and treat stress, there isn’t a whole lot of evidence to back up the claims. Western medicine tends to ascribe to the idea that pimples appear on the face simply because of overactivity in glands that secrete oils. Some doctors believe that redness on the face may indicate hormonal problems or stress.

Modern dermatology lists the following reasons for acne or redness on the face:

Hormonal imbalances, especially androgen dominance which is known to cause acne
Elevated stress levels
Overactive oil glands in the T-zone of the face, which can lead to breakouts
Lack of quality sleep
Not washing the face, which allows dead skin and oils to build-up.
Poor gut health and poor diet in general
Allergies and immune responses
Irritation or allergies from skincare and beauty products
Genetics
Sunburns
Lack of circulation
Diseases such as heart disease or diabetes
Environmental toxin exposure

Face mapping also addresses many of these issues above, especially stress. However, most dermatologists say that you should look at your daily skincare routine and lifestyle choices to figure out the culprit. Do you clean your face every day with non-toxic facial washes? Use sunscreen while you’re out in the sun? Do you eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly? Get enough sleep?

If you follow a healthy lifestyle and still have breakouts, you should consider making an appointment with a face mapping practitioner or dermatologist for more help. While face mapping doesn’t have much science behind it yet, you shouldn’t rule it out as a possible treatment route. After all, they’ve been using it in Chinese medicine for thousands of years, so there must be something to it.

Face mapping can be compared to acupuncture in that they both use the qi, or meridian system, to diagnose underlying problems. However, most studies show that this system “lacks a physical anatomical basis.”

Differences between Ayurvedic and Chinese face mapping

In traditional Chinese medicine, they focus more on the body’s meridian system, while Ayurveda diagnoses underlying problems based on someone’s body type or dosha.

There are three doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, and they determine one’s mental constitution as well. Any physical or spiritual imbalances show up in different parts of the body, depending on the dosha.

In Chinese medicine, they believe that any underlying problems will show up on the face. In Ayurveda, they listen to a patient’s issues and give them a specific treatment based on what dosha they determine suffers from an imbalance.

Dermalogica Face Mapping

Dermalogica is a company that offers skin treatment based on a combination of scientific knowledge and Chinese medicine. While they rely on ancient wisdom from Ayurvedic and Chinese face mapping, they mainly treat issues due to sun exposure, inadequate water intake, irritation from skincare products, and hormonal problems.

According to the Dermatologica website, the skin analysis they perform on patients “involves looking at your skin with a trained eye, touching your skin, and asking you questions about your lifestyle and environment.”

Dermalogica gives you a “Personalized Skin Fitness Plan” based on the results you get from your skin analysis as well as solid dermatology advice. They want to identify each patient’s skin goals and get an idea of their lifestyle so they can recommend products and lifestyle adjustments to fit each patient.

Here are some common recommendations made by the consultants at the company:

Avoiding irritating skin care and perfume products
Avoid using makeup that clogs pores.
Preventing sun damage
Getting adequate water intake
Addressing stress
Eating a balanced diet.
Avoiding foods that cause skin reactions
Clean your cellphone, pillows, and anything else that touches the face regularly.

The service only takes a few minutes to complete and is done by a qualified representative at Dermalogica. If this interests you, you can look on their website to find a nearby store to get your skin analysis.

In general, doctors and scientists recommend the following to take care of your skin and overall health:

Watch your intake of high calorie and processed foods.
Avoid too much salt or sugar in your diet.
Don’t smoke or drink alcohol.
Get enough sleep
Exercise regularly
Protect your skin when you’re out in the sun
Keep your mindset positive.
Get regular checkups with your doctor.

Final thoughts on face mapping and how it can reveal hidden stress

According to Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, the face can reveal deeper issues with the organs, such as heart disease, diabetes, stress, and other health problems. Redness, acne, wrinkles, or lines on the face mean that the energy flow is imbalanced in the body. Poor functioning of the body’s organs shows up in the skin because the energy needs somewhere to go, and the skin is the largest organ in the body.

Most people use face mapping because of problems with acne, which practitioners believe could point to a kidney or digestive issue. Also, acne on the chin and jaw could represent higher stress levels and hormone imbalances. Dermalogica face mapping is prevalent in many locations, including in salons and spas. If you’d like to get face mapping services, this one only takes a few minutes and is done by a qualified professional.

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

Exercise

Keep a routine

Therapy

Yoga

Acupuncture

Supplements

Support from family and friends

Eat a healthy diet

Avoid alcohol

Faith

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!