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5 Ways to Stop Destructive Anger

March 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Anger is one of the easiest emotions to show. Many people would rather be angry than to cry and show their vulnerability. You may be surprised to learn that there are four different types of anger, and each one of these hostile emotions comes from various reasons.

It’s okay to get upset and vent about your frustrations. However, when your rage becomes destructive, then it’s a sign you need help.

The Four Types of Anger

Who knew that when you get mad, your anger can be classified into distinct categories? Before you can learn proper techniques to deescalate your rage, then you must determine what type of frustration you have going on. Here are the four categories recognized by therapists.

1. Aggressive/Destructive

If you are in a situation where you feel intimidated or need to be in control over someone else, then you may express your aggressive fury. People who regularly engage in this type of rage are often known as bullies. They can use both emotional and psychological violence to gain control.

From the outside, it looks as if this person is strong and powerful. However, the inside tells an entirely different story. Most of the people who suffer from this type of rage have insecurities that they cannot vocalize.

When someone repetitively has problems with fury and is aggressive, then it shows how serious the inadequacies within them. Rage is often a mask for weakness, and because they feel so out of control with their life, they must try to control others.

Suffering from aggressive anger brings about destructive tendencies. These people often have a difficult time in relationships, and their life is full of painful conflicts with loved ones and friends. Unless this person changes their ways, then the rage they feel will cause their ruin.

2. Temper Tantrums

A person who suffers from temper tantrums can often be confused or cross the lines of someone who suffers from destructive rage. These people usually have outbursts of anger when things don’t go their way.

The reason experts call them temper tantrums is because the cause of this fury often originates in childhood. Commonly, these people have unrealistic wants and needs that they demand are met.

They have a hard time finding someone that can measure up to their level of expectation. However, when things don’t meet their high standards, then they become very vocal and even aggressive. Think of how a child acts in their “terrible twos,” as this is the same type of behavior you can expect from someone with temper tantrums in adulthood.

Experts believe that something happened to alter the developmental and maturation process, and the person never outgrew those violent mood swings as a child. Instead, they have developed a narcissistic rage that fuels them.

Since it’s hard to meet their standards, they often have much difficulty in relationships. Even their family members may find it hard to be around them for long periods.

3. Annoyance

Annoyance is the most common type of fury that an average person would feel. These emotions are caused by everyday life. For instance, you may feel this type of rage when someone makes you late for work, or you disagreed with your spouse.

People who tend to have this type of fury are often those that tend to focus on the negative aspects of their life rather than the positive ones. They are easily annoyed and can be triggered without effort. Though annoyance can be commonplace, it can also develop into a severe problem.

4. Justifiable

Finally, the last stage of anger is the legitimate type. A person who experiences this type of rage often looks at things going on in the world and becomes enraged. They may not like cruelty towards animals, or they may feel that Mother Earth is being destroyed from careless acts.

While this type of fury is unhealthy, it does have a few benefits. Taking this rage and turning it into a passion for doing good can be productive. Instead of being mad at all the people that are being cruel towards animals, why not start a rescue program in your local area?

Though these people have a difficult time with their emotions, they should take their angst and use it to fuel the fire to help.

Five Ways to Stop the Anger and Destruction

Uncontrolled emotions are so easy to harness for good. However, there are several ways that you can stop the destructive fury that you feel. Here are some tips to help you handle your rage and deescalate the situation.

1. Breathe

Breathing techniques have been used far and wide to help people that suffer from panic and anxiety. To the person who cannot control their emotions, it can feel much like a panic attack. The best thing to do is practice rhythmic breathing.

Rhythmic breathing should be done to the count of seven. You must inhale, hold, and exhale. This repetitious behavior will help you to calm the body. This little exercise will help you to gain control over your nervous system, which is out of whack during a time of rage.

If you start to feel those emotions of fury rising in you, then stop and start these breathing exercises. It’s often best to do it outside where you can inhale fresh air. Something about being out in nature also is very calming to people.

2. Take a Time Out

When people get to a certain level of rage, they often don’t care what they say or do. When you get to this place, then it becomes dangerous for you to be around anyone. Put yourself in time out until you have calmed down.

Going into time out means that you will not be around anyone that you could hurt with words you don’t mean to say. It’s not your logical self that’s speaking when you are upset; it’s the uncontrolled emotions behind you. You must stay away from others until you can learn to “be nice” again.

Have a special place that you go to deescalate when you are feeling your worst. For instance, if you have a porch swing that tends to be a place you can calm and relax, then sit on the swing. Practice your breathing exercises there until you feel that you have diffused your rage and can be around others.

3. Engage Your Thinking Brain by Redirecting

When you are about to blow your top, you need to stop and engage with your thoughts. Why are you so upset? Redirecting yourself can stop the emotion and put you in better spirits.

You need to identify what has upset you. Is it the fact that someone cut you off while driving to work, or is there something underlying that just exploded when you were given “the last straw?’

Write a list of the things that upset you, and then you need to write ways you can combat these issues. Set yourself up so that the next time someone cuts you off on the way to work, you turn the radio up loud and start singing.

Find tactics that can work to help you refocus your attention elsewhere. Don’t concentrate on the careless driver. Instead, turn your focus to the radio or call a friend. You will soon find that you have developed techniques to redirect yourself so that you can remain calm even when someone does you wrong.

When a child is upset and is fighting with someone else at daycare, workers try to redirect them towards something else. Soon they find that the reason they were mad isn’t even an issue anymore. You must learn to redirect yourself continuously.

4. Talk It Out

When you find yourself in a situation where your rage is soaring, then you need to acknowledge that you’re about to hit the edge. Rather than getting all upset, you need to talk it out.

Many times, people who have rage issues often feel that they are not being heard. If you feel like no one cares about your thoughts or feelings, it might be because you haven’t expressed to them how you truly feel. Take time to explain what is going on inside.

Your spouse or family must learn how to help you, deescalate. What works for one person might not work for others. However, talking through what’s on your mind can’t hurt. Just choose your words wisely, and you should never start swinging insults while letting the anger take over.

5. Count to 10

When you feel that you are hitting your peak and about to blow from rage, then you need to stop and count to ten. When you are counting, you are also breathing. Counting to ten is an old tactic that is used for people of all age groups as it helps your mind to calm down.

You can count while taking a nice long walk or isolating yourself. Do everything in your power to stop the current activity by disruption or redirecting.

Here’s how meditation can help manage your emotions, including anger.

Final Thoughts: Handling Your Anger

Life will give you many situations each day, which can cause you to see red. However, it’s learning how to control those issues that count appropriately. You may need a counselor to help you learn the art of breathing or redirecting your rage.

In most cases, there is an underlying issue of why you feel so angry all the time. It may be troubling from your childhood, or you may not feel like people hear you. Getting to the crux behind your rage can be beneficial in learning to control your seemingly uncontrollable emotions.

Brave 7 Year Old Publishes Book to Raise Money for Rare Disease

March 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Ask Gunner Hoggard why he wanted to publish a book, and he’s not shy to tell you–he wants to raise money to combat Perthes Disease. For the brave seven-year-old, making people aware of this condition is a priority. This child is a beacon of positivity. As if raising money weren’t enough, Gunner had a second goal. He wanted to be sure that other kids like him got the message that they are not alone in battling the debilitating rare disease.

Yes, Gunner has Perthes Disease. But, even though he must do things a little bit differently than other children, that does not hold him back from living life to the fullest.

His story of positivity is one that will inspire you.

What is Perthes Disease?

Here’s a brief definition of Perthes Disease, according to the Perthes Kids Foundation, a 501C3 organization leading the way in creating awareness.

“Perthes disease is a rare childhood condition that affects the hip when blood supply to the hip bone is disrupted, causing bone cells to die, which erodes the hip and causes pain in the process.” —Perthes Kids Foundation

This condition is rare, impacting only four or five per 100,o00 children.

The foundation also reveals that so far, researchers have no cure to offer impacted children. Nor do they know the cause.

Although the painful inflammation is debilitating, it is not life-threatening. Furthermore, children have resilient bodies. Therefore, once the erosion of the bones stops, they can often recover some of the bone loss.

It impacts children to different degrees. Gunner can walk sometimes. However, more prolonged activities with his parents and siblings mean Gunner uses a wheelchair for many outings.

Gunner’s mother, GiGi Hoggard, shared, “He has good days and bad days, good weeks and bad weeks. You just never know with this stuff. He needs his wheelchair for long walks because if he overworks it…it starts to hurt from inflammation.”

What Motivates a 7-Year-Old Child to Write a Book About a Rare Disease?

Gunner copes with pain beyond what most people can imagine. Yet, he keeps a positive attitude and wants to comfort other kids who face challenges with Perthes Disease.

He thought long and hard about how to spread the message of hope to other children who face the same diagnosis. His solution was one that most children his age would not consider. He wrote and self-published a book, My Adventures with Perthes. In the children’s book, Gunner shares how he found his inner strength to learn to cope with the pain he endures. And, he candidly explains how he overcomes feeling left out of participating in activities he once enjoyed.

When asked why he found it so necessary to share information about Perthes Disease with the world, Gunner explained his mission.

“To raise awareness on something so rare. Maybe with my help, more research can be done to help kids like me.”

He also emphasized his other goal, “to help other kids like me that can’t do ‘normal’ kid things.”

Not only is Gunner raising awareness, but he’s also putting his hard-earned money where his mouth is. Gunner donates $1 of every book sale he makes on Amazon towards that much-needed research.

Gunner and his family choose positivity and don’t let his rare disease define his life.

Final Thoughts: Gunner Hoggard Is the Embodiment of Positivity

Gunner Hoggard is a brave 7-year-old coping with a disease for which there is not a cure at this time. However, instead of feeling sorry for himself, he did the extraordinary and decided to become part of the solution. Perhaps Gunner’s mother sums up Gunner’s accomplishment best,

“His ability to turn such a life-altering situation into something positive make me beyond proud of him.”

We, too, are proud of Gunner’s ability to spread a message of comfort to other children and help raise the research dollars needed to help combat this rare disease

Therapist Explains Why The Strongest Couples Know How to Compromise

March 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Relationships are work. Many couples try to make things work by winning at all things. They control the expenditures, the daily plans, and life as a whole. The reality of a successful marriage is that it has to be based on compromise, or it will fail. We’ve got a look into the truth that the healthiest couples know how to work together as a team.

The Work

A marriage counselor will tell you that marriage stats are that between 40 and 50 percent of marriages end in divorce. Of course, the reasons differ, but many times it comes down to real work. You’re expected to have bumps in the road. Life isn’t usually always easy. It takes coming together to figure things out to make things last. By going through hardship and overcoming issues together, you build a stronger foundation. A lasting, robust, and happy relationship takes work, or it falls apart.

Give A Little

You can’t always get your way. Even if you think you wear the pants in the relationship, you have to give in at times. A lasting relationship includes a large amount of compromise. If it was just you in the marriage, you could do whatever you wanted. You have another person to consider. Of course, you want to make them happy at times. You don’t always need to choose the restaurant, the movie, or vacation plans.

These are small things. In more significant decisions when it comes to your children, your aging parents and your professional journeys, you need to come together to figure things out. You may have to sacrifice to ensure their happiness.

Here are ten signs you need the aid of a marriage counselor.

Marriage Isn’t About Winning

It’s easy to lose sight of the “we” in your marriage. You mustn’t try to win every argument. It’s more about finding a solution. If you’re focusing on getting your way instead of solving the issue, you lose sight of the actual problem. You begin to resent one another. No one wins in a marriage if you both go to bed angry. The common goal in all of your issues is to find that solution together.

Communicate All The Time

A marriage counselor’s number one thing is usually communication. You have to figure out the best way to communicate with your spouse. It could be talking about your daily life, what you’re having for lunch, or the meaning of life itself. Talking about every little thing strengthens you as a couple. You have to figure out how to come together in all aspects of life. You must always listen when the other is speaking. Truly listen to their words.

How To Approach Compromise

All of these aspects of coming together as a couple leads to putting the work in. You have to have an attitude of compromising. Ask yourself a few questions. Ask yourself if you value your differences. Make sure you understand it’s okay if you are not always right. Make sure you put aside your needs at times to meet your spouse’s needs. In the end, decide if you can negotiate your differences with love and respect.

Learn why couples argue.

The Obstacles

Traditionally girls are taught to be seen and not heard. They’re supposed to be the sweet, nice ones. The problem is that not all girls are like this, and nice people don’t usually step up to negotiate. Many times they just give in. In a marriage, it’s important to step past being nice. Both partners have to give in. Both partners have to speak their minds. If not, they’re left in the dust. The partners are equivalent in a relationship, so both should be heard on the same level.

Compromise Without Resentment

Remember that in compromise, no one wins or loses. Don’t consent to anything that you will be angry about later. If you have doubts, you’ll hold resentment. Talk about your decisions together until you reach something that you both don’t hate. You both might have to budge a little, but you won’t hold anger if each gets a little and gives a little. Never go with something that goes against your morals and beliefs. Openly discuss each decision with your true feelings.

Let It Go

Take a hint from “Frozen” and “let it go.” You don’t have to be right. You don’t have to get your way. Have the satisfaction that your spouse gets their way sometimes. If you hold tightly to the wrongs in your relationship, you lose sight of the entire thing. You can’t hold a grudge that you never get your way, or you don’t get your way enough. Just let things go.

Support Each Other

The strongest couples know how to support one another truly. You may not always understand the life goals of your spouse, but you have to support them. Sometimes one of you will be weak. It’s essential in these times to be the stronger one in the relationship. You’re to be each other’s biggest cheerleaders helping each other through life. Even when you don’t love the way they are approaching things, let them feel it out. Always use supportive words and be positive.

Share Your Heart

A compromise means you meet halfway, and you can’t do that if you aren’t real with your heart. Express your beliefs and emotions in every situation. Use statements with “me” and “I,” so there is no confusion in how you feel. Counselors always say instead of attacking anyone with words. You have to come from a place of expression. You must say, “I feel this way.” When you do this, the other person doesn’t have to get defensive. They just understand this is your feeling, and they respect it.

Strength In Decisions

You know your partner’s strengths and weaknesses. It’s essential when you’re coming to decisions to play on each other’s strengths. Always look for the positive in each person when making any decision. Even if you’re just talking about who does which chore. If you love washing the dishes and they love drying the dishes, it’s cut and dry. In the more significant decisions of life, look at your personalities as a whole as individuals when making a move.

Core Values

Stable couples have similar core values, most times. This fact does not mean you have to love doing all of the same things. Your backgrounds could be different. This means you believe in the same things. Usually, our core beliefs and fundamental values are instilled in us as children from our guardians. If you choose to follow these beliefs, make sure you share them with your spouse. They will guide you in how you make important decisions for your family in the future.

Evaluate Your Expectations

Sometimes you need to take a step back and decide what you want. Sometimes we fight just to win. And sometimes we forget why we’re even debating as it goes into a rabbit hole of confusion. Stay calm and focused when making decisions together. Maintain your emotions when you’re trying to conclude. Ask yourself if you believe in something so much, is it okay to give in a little? Would you still be alright with the conclusion?

Be Willing To Change

Changing things about yourself take a lot of work. You must be willing to act on changes. If you agree to something, but cannot change to reach that decision, then you have done nothing. A large part of compromising is sometimes following through by changing yourself. This means you’re showing the other person that you can change your feelings as well as your actions without making false promises.

Final Thoughts: Compromise Teaches Us How to Handle Differences

A huge part of compromising is learning to handle your differences. Traditionally boys were taught the boy with the most power wins. If they were raised in a home where the man was the dominant figure in the relationship, they tend to think that is how it goes. The reality is that it’s essential to see the differences instead of the hierarchy.

Here’s an example You may love a cooler temperature in the house. Your spouse may love a toasty warm house. There is a happy in-between where you can celebrate your difference in that temperature. All of life’s issues aren’t so easy, true. This means you have to figure out how to handle all of your differences in a civilized way. Resolve things based on the ways both of you figure things out. Celebrating your differences is important because you have to remember if you were the same, your heads would hit at all times.

A true partnership occurs when we are open, expand our ideas, loosen our rigid

The most robust relationships know how to compromise, leading to a long, healthy marriage. You have to let go of power to become stronger together. Don’t let pride get in the way of your success. Once you come together in all directions, you’ll be resilient as a couple.

10 Morning Rituals That Help You Find the Silver Lining

March 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Creating morning rituals that help you find the silver lining in each day isn’t as difficult as you think. Do you feel smothered by avalanches of lousy news from the media? When you feel dark and depressed on the inside, rituals can help you open the windows of your heart to a positive light.

Being positive does not mean you’re oblivious to your surroundings and see the world through “rose-colored glasses.” It means you have made a conscientious decision to find joy in life regardless of circumstances.

Most living things will find comfort in the familiar. Observing morning rituals can put you at ease and get your day started right. The next time you feel blue, try one or more of these happiness habits when you awake.

These 10 Morning Rituals Can Help You See the Silver Lining

1. Yoga and Stretching

If you have pets, watch what they do as soon as they wake up in the morning or from a little snooze. Cats and dogs usually do a good stretch from head to tail, and sometimes they shake out their fur.

Take your furry friend’s lead and stretch your body after the alarm clock sounds. Extend your arms, legs, and gently turn your neck. Muscles often contract during sleep, so a gentle stretch warms them up for the day, and it makes you feel good.

Yoga is conditioning for the body, mind, and soul. You don’t have to live alone on a remote mountain or twist your body into a pretzel to glean its many benefits. This practice involves mindful breathing, reflection, and postures that often reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.

Most studios have early morning hours for those who practice at dawn. You could buy a membership or sit with a private teacher for your sessions. You can also find many quality tutorials online to practice from the comforts of home.

2. Walking the Dog

Some morning rituals will up the positivity factor for both you and Fido. Taking an early stroll with your dog not only allows him to do his business, but it provides healthy exercise and releases penned-up energy.

Did you know that walking the dog incorporates one of the best exercises for you? It gets your whole body to move, burns calories, and stimulates your brain to produce happy endorphins. Enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, and have fun playing with your pup.

3. Create a Personal Space

Be kind to yourself and create a warm, inviting sanctuary for your morning rituals. Whether it is a room, closet, or just a little corner, make it your place for positive focus. Since you need a few uninterrupted minutes, visit your nook before anyone else wakes up in the house.

Foster your creativity and decorate your small haven with things that evoke tranquility and joy. Candles, incense, or a lovely picture may help you focus on the day ahead. This space is the ideal setting for you to read, write in your journal, or bring your thoughts into reality.

If you are out of town, bring your meditative collection with you and proceed as usual. Your sacred retreat will soon become a place of healing and rejuvenation. If all you have is fifteen to twenty minutes in the morning, it will be well worth it.

4. Become a Book Worm

If you want to boost your mood and your brainpower, why not make reading one of the things you do in your new space? If you find the newspaper depressing, trade it for something enjoyable. The point is to engage yourself with things that please you each day.

Some people find reading from sacred texts or other inspirational writings gives them a pleasant outlook. Your reading material can be anything that makes you smile or think, no matter the form or document. Carve a few minutes in your daily routine to read a chapter or two from your favorite author.

5. Try Journal Writing

Are you like most people who feel that it is easier to write your feelings rather than voice them? Maybe current situations and those of the past weigh you down, and your future appears dim. Journal writing can give your emotions words and encouraging validation.

If you make it a habit, you may soon look forward to journal writing when you awaken. Treat yourself to an attractive notebook and some colorful gel pens to enhance this activity. You don’t need to spend a fortune either.

Set up a place to write in your sacred space. Remember that there are no rules for personal journaling, and you needn’t share it with anyone unless you choose. Feel free to write poetry, draw, or glue pictures in your journal that make you feel positive about yourself.

If computers are your thing, feel free to journal in a word processing program. You can save it to a thumb drive as needed. Take time to reflect on past journal entries and see how your situations and viewpoints may have changed.

6. Incorporate Reflection and Quiet Time

If you have never meditated before, you may have some preconceived notions. You don’t have to belong to any religious or philosophical group to reap its benefits.

Did you know that you have been meditating for years, and probably didn’t even realize it? Daydreaming and concentrating are both parts of meditation. The key is to temporarily close the outside world and open your mind to your thoughts.

Countless scientific studies suggest that people who meditate consistently may have more self-esteem and see their lives more positively. Is that a benefit you could use? Learning to meditate is not difficult, and you will gradually feel its effects.

Even if you meditate ten to fifteen minutes in your sacred space each morning, it can help. Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and just let your thoughts wander across your mind like passing clouds. Instead of being judgmental, acknowledge a negative thought and let it go.

If you want to light a fragrant candle or listen to soft music, do so. Feel the gentle vibrations of the universe and know that you are loved. Watch the difference meditating can make in your workday.

7. Don’t Forget Breakfast

Remember how your mother always told you that breakfast was the most important meal of the day? Some scientific evidence agrees, and many experts recommend that we eat a balanced, nutritious meal each morning. That doesn’t mean that you should grab a fat-laden pastry on your way out the door.

Consider a morning meal that is high in protein, fiber, and nutrients, but it’s low in fat. A healthy meal can prevent spikes in your blood sugar levels that could lead to lethargy and negative moods. Talk to your doctor or nutritionist about meal plans that are best for you.

8. Your Social Media Wakeup Call

When kept into a proper perspective, morning logins to social media can enhance your positivity. Only when it becomes your only source of communication, and it interrupts daily activities, is it a problem. If the news feeds are sensational and depressing, block them.

Perhaps some of your journaling experience is done online, and you want to share personal inspiration. You may be a photo enthusiast and like to post pictures you take. Sometimes, these accounts are all you have available to contact distant family and friends.

Use your online time wisely, and be sure it benefits your well-being. Logging on each morning might be an essential part of your morning rituals. If it becomes a timewaster, then do some evaluation.

9. Get Your Body Moving

In addition to an early trek in the park, have you considered exercising in the morning? You can strengthen your joints, build muscle, and lose weight. Fitness experts say that for many people, morning exercise may be more beneficial than evening workouts.

As you exercise, listen to music and get your feel-good vibes going. You will get healthier and may have a better outlook on your day. Before you start any exercise regimen, talk to your health care provider.

10. Pamper Yourself in the Mornings

When caring for a busy family, you will have little time for yourself in the evening. Besides, there is probably no hot water for you after everyone has showered before bed. Consider making early mornings a time to pamper yourself.

Set your alarm clock to go off earlier so you will have time to shower or bathe in peace. With each of your morning hygiene routines, look in the mirror and tell yourself that you are beautiful and worthy to be loved. It may be what you need to boost your spirits.

Final Thoughts: Your Morning Rituals Will Become a Comfort to You

Many spiritual groups see the sacred in common. When you are mindful of each step in your morning rituals, simple pleasures become the springboard for the day. You can be more aware of the love and pure joy that surrounds you that you might otherwise pass by.

10 Ways to Protect Yourself From Germs When You Go Out

March 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Germs are everywhere. Airborne viruses can quickly spread through droplet inhalation. However, regardless of how toxic the air around you, don’t leave your home unless you need necessities.

Many areas have guidelines in place that require a person to shelter at home. The recent mandates that we received because of the Covid-19 virus leave people frustrated, scared, and they want to do everything they can to protect their family. You must shield yourself to ensure your health.

You must take extra precautions to ensure your wellbeing while out in public, so here are ten ways to keep germs at bay.

10 Ways to Protect Yourself from Germs–Because You’ll Have to Leave the House Eventually!

1. Wear Gloves

While it may not be fashionable to wear gloves in spring, it’s essential to keep your hands clear of bacteria. Think of all the things that you touch that is covered in germs. Do you ever consider the viruses on the tube at the bank, doors in and out of the stores and restrooms, as well as products at your supermarket?

Do you know how many people touch a box before it makes it to the shelf? Wearing gloves might be silly, but it could save you from the transmission of a severe illness. Remember, even the coronavirus can live for 72 hours on a surface, and you don’t want to be anywhere near those germs.

2. Use A Face Mask

There is some controversy over who should wear face masks. Some individuals think they should only be used by the people who are sick, even if they have a common cold. However, others feel that it’s not a bad idea for everyone to use a mask. While the concern right now is over Covid-19, other illnesses should not be forgotten.

Using a facial mask is an excellent way to protect your airways from breathing in harmful bacteria. There are hundreds of viruses and microbes that can be transferred from saliva droplets from the nose or mouth. A face mask just protects the air you breathe, and it’s so inexpensive too.

Whether you’re sick or not, it won’t hurt you to wear a mask. It’s just an extra safety measure that ensures your protection.

3. Carry Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer can never replace good old soap and water. Only hot water and soap will kill all the germs on your hands. However, hand sanitizer has its place.

If you are in a situation where you cannot wash up, then you need to use sanitizer. You need about a quarter-size dollop, and you should rub the alcohol mixture all over. Make sure to get the cervixes of your fingers too, as germs love to hide in these spots.

4. Don’t Shake Hands/Hug

No matter how badly you want to shake hands or hug your friend or family member, you must resist. Hugging and hang shaking are especially off-limits during a pandemic. However, you should avoid these actions during peak flu season and other times too.

When you shake a hand, you are transferring all the bacteria from the other person to you. If they went to the restroom and didn’t wash up afterward, then you now have those toxins on your body.

If you find yourself in a situation where you must show affection, then you need to wash immediately afterward. Since most bacteria needs time to work its way into your body, you should be safe if you wash up quickly.

5. Keep Six Feet from Everyone

You don’t want anyone too close during social distancing. Using public health safety intervention methods to keep others at bay only protects the transmission of illness. Big gatherings of people encourage the spread of Covid-19 and other viruses.

The rule of thumb is that bacteria can travel up to six feet from one person to another. So you need to make sure that you have at least that amount of distance between you and everyone else. If you are too close to someone, then you could breathe in germs should someone sneeze or cough.

These extra precautions are not there to annoy folks but only to keep you safe. The Covid-19 virus is quickly spreading because people aren’t practicing appropriate social distancing tactics.

6. Wash Your Hands

Many people don’t really know how to wash up. Letting the water run and lathering a dab of soap for a couple of seconds isn’t going to kill the bacteria on your hands. No, you must wash your hands like you’re about to do surgery.

Have you ever seen a surgeon on television washing up to go into the operating room? You need to use a healthy amount of soap and the hottest water you can stand. Additionally, you need to wash for at least 20 seconds.

Think of a song that you can sing that lasts about a half of a minute. It will help you ensure that you are washing for the right period of time. You can’t be too careful with all the bacteria running ramped in our society.

7. Avoid Public Bathrooms

Public bathrooms are nasty, no matter what time of year. However, when a pandemic is happening, then they are especially toxic. If you are out and about and feel the call of mother nature, then try your best to avoid using these contaminated facilities.

If you cannot wait till you get home, then make sure that you line the toilet with tissue and don’t sit on the seat. Also, touch the restroom doors with a paper towel to avoid recontamination after you’ve washed your hands.

When bathrooms don’t have paper towels, then use your shirttail instead. The hand drying machines are also a harbor for bacteria and can be counterproductive after you’ve washed up.

8. Wipe Down Shopping Cart Handles

Bacteria lingers in places you least expect. For instance, shopping carts are loaded with toxins that you don’t want to come in contact with your body. Just think, one cart in a busy supermarket is probably used around 40-50 times each day.

Do you really want the germs of so many people coming in contact with you? Most stores have wet wipes at the entry so that folks can wipe down the handles. If your store doesn’t offer these options, then you must carry some wipes with you.

Not only should you be concerned about Covid-19, but you should also be cautious of salmonella, E. coli, and campylobacter. Little children also touch shopping cart handles as they sit in the front of the carts. Plus, there’s also blood from raw meat and other toxins.

Shockingly, a study showed that a shopping cart has 8,112 bacteria colonies per square inch. Can you think of anything more disgusting? A grocery store is a feeding frenzy for germs that you want to avoid. Take a few minutes and wipe down the cart handle.

9. Steer Clear of Crowded Places

Social distancing means staying away from a certain distance from others, but you must avoid crowded places too. If you need groceries or medications, then you should try to use the drive-thru lines or curbside pickup services.

The more people are in a place you visit, the higher your chances of coming in contact with their bacteria. It’s estimated that one percent of the population has the coronavirus, and in a crowded area, your chances of coming in contact with it significantly increase.

Since so many people sick and dying from this virus, it’s worth taking every precaution possible to protect yourself for contamination.

10. Avoid Touching Eyes, Nose, and Mouth

Experts say to avoid touching your face during the time of a pandemic like Covid-19. However, it’s one of those things that is easier said than done. One way that you can avoid touching your face is by wearing a mask.

The mask can be a barrier that serves as a reminder each time you go to scratch your nose. Why can’t you touch your face anyway? Well, bacteria quickly spread to the hands, which is why you must wash them so much.

Once you touch your face with bacteria-filled hands, you are putting yourself at risk for getting microbes from the virus in your mouth or nose.

Final Thoughts: Staying Free of Germs During a Viral Outbreak

Illness can affect anyone regardless of age, weight, gender, or religious affiliation. The only problem with Covid-19 is the danger that it carries with those who have issues like a weakened immune system, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, chronic lung conditions, and substance abuse problems.

To date, more than 304,600 people have contracted Covid-19 around the world. There have been 13,000 deaths, and 188 countries affected. You don’t want to do anything that might put you in contact with the coronavirus.

Thankfully, social distancing has shown that you can lessen or eradicate many illnesses. The country of China no longer is under distancing measures as they have weathered the worst of the storm. By taking the extra precautions necessary, you can protect yourself and your family.

Cardiologists Explain the Causes and Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure

March 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is a condition that can weaken the body or cause a life-threatening situation. You probably don’t hear as much about it as you do hypertension or high blood pressure. Both conditions carry health risks.

When you visit the doctor’s office, the staff will always take your blood pressure, or BP, as part of your vital signs. An average BP runs around 120/80. However, many people’s numbers may naturally be a little higher or lower. Only a licensed physician is qualified to interpret the significance of your BP.

How Does the Doctor Measure Your Blood Pressure?

The cuff is usually placed right above your elbow on the left arm, which is against your arm’s main artery. As the cuff pumps in the air, it restricts your arm’s blood flow momentarily. The machine will record your results manually or electronically.

As the air pressure gradually releases from the cuff, your first arterial pulse registers as your systolic or top number. The last pulse before the cuff goes flat is called your diastolic or the bottom numbers. This scale represents the pressure in your blood vessels as the heartbeats.

What Indicates a Low Blood Pressure Diagnosis?

Like many others, your BP may be naturally on the lower side, and you don’t have any problems with it because it’s your normal. Cardiologists consider a systolic reading below 90 mm and a diastolic reading below 60 mm as low blood pressure. Even lower readings can be just as dangerous as readings that are too high.

If you are prone to low BP, then it’s essential to visit your health care provider regularly and monitor it daily at home. Acute hypotension often indicates an underlying illness or disorder. Your doctor will order more tests to find the root cause.

What Are the Symptoms of Hypotension?

Since most symptoms commonly present with other disorders, the leading indicator is that your numbers are registering low when checked. Can you tell if you are hypotensive before you test your BP? Look for these red flags.

1 – Dizziness

People who are experiencing a drop in their BP will often feel light-headed and dizzy. Low pressure in the blood affects blood flow to the brain, which reduces oxygen levels. The resulting weakness may be gradual or sudden.

2 – Fainting

If your head is spinning with dizziness, you might feel like you are going to faint. Sudden BP drops often cause syncope or fainting. Experts recommend that you sit down immediately and lower your head while getting emergency medical attention.

3 – Nausea

Do you often feel nauseated? If you were not diagnosed with digestive or other medical issues, you might have problems with your blood pressure. As the body is weakened from weak blood flow and lower oxygen levels, nausea is a typical result.

Hypotension may trigger your nausea. Here are natural remedies to soothe the discomfort.

4 – Blurry Vision

Maybe your vision is blurry for no apparent reason. You might feel foggy, exhausted, and are unable to concentrate on anything. See your health provider as soon as possible and see if low BP is the culprit.

A drastic drop in BP can be life-threatening, requiring emergency care. This dangerous condition may cause shock. If you or a loved one are suddenly confused, has shallow breathing, cold/clammy skin, and a weak pulse, it’s time to call the paramedics.

What Causes Low Blood Pressure?

Here are several factors that cause low blood pressure.

1 – Dehydration

Do you drink enough water? If not, you can become dehydrated, and your BP may become too low. If you have a fever, take water pills, or do strenuous exercises, be kind to your circulatory system and drink plenty of H20.

2 – Dietary factors

An improper diet can also affect your BP readings. Specific vitamins, like B12, are crucial for manufacturing red blood cells. A drop in red blood cells, called anemia, can negatively affect your blood pressure.

3 – Your heart’s health

The heart is the central organ of the cardiovascular system. When you struggle with a cardiac condition, it may restrict the flow of blood and result in hypotension. Any blood disorder or substantial blood loss may also create low pressure.

4 – Endocrine health issues

Since the circulatory system works closely with the endocrine system, any endocrinological disorders may decrease blood pressure. You may be hypotensive if you are diagnosed with diabetes, adrenal disease, or thyroid disorders. Your doctor will keep both conditions monitored regularly.

5 – Blood infections

When the blood is infected and carries poisons throughout the body, it results in a potentially lethal disease called septicemia, or sepsis. Patients experience septic shock and are in danger of systemic shutdown. Septicemia almost always drops the blood pressure, often to critical levels.

6 – A natural tendency

You may be one of many people who have low BP for no reason. If your health care professionals have ruled out illnesses, they will probably just recommend that you keep it regularly monitored. An acute hypotensive condition requires further investigation of underlying causes.

7 – Pregnancy

It is not unusual for pregnant women to have low BP. If you are pregnant, your drop in blood pressure may be due to an expansion in your circulatory system, which is now providing for two. After you have your baby, you will probably see your BP go back to normal.

8 – A few medications

Did you realize that some medicines you take can make you hypotensive? Antidepressants, beta-blockers, and drugs for Parkinson’s Disease are among those. Doctors warn men who take erectile dysfunction medications that the most severe side effect is a dangerous BP drop.

Are There Different Forms of Low BP?

After your doctor has evaluated your signs and symptoms and has diagnosed hypotension, he/she will also diagnose the type you have. Although other types may exist, yours will probably fit in one of the four main categories.

• Postprandial

Postprandial is a big word that means your BP drops after you eat. You are more apt to be in this category if you are a senior. The usual increase in BP to aid digestion may malfunction due to certain medical conditions, and you may feel faint dizziness after a meal.

• Postural

Sometimes people experience sudden blood pressure drops when they stand, known as postural. It may be caused by a plethora of reasons, such as certain disorders, medication, or pregnancy. Even though it is usually a senior malady, younger people who exercise strenuously may also be susceptible.

• Chronic

Those who have a neurological condition called Shy-Drager Disorder suffer damage that controls the automatic nervous system. Since this system regulates blood pressure, a malfunction can lead to chronic blood pressure issues.

• Neurally Medicated

Your brain automatically signals your heart when to beat and regulate blood pressure flow throughout the body. If these nerves are not functioning correctly, you may become hypotensive, which a condition called neurally mediated. It usually affects only young adults and children.

Do You Have Risk Factors for Low Blood Pressure?

Low blood pressure can affect people, regardless of race, gender, or age. Anyone can present with hypotensive signs and symptoms. However, you are more apt to receive a diagnosis if you have certain risk factors.

Medical studies demonstrate that the more you age, the more susceptible you are to hypotension. The risk is higher if you are over 65. It stands to reason that since seniors are prone to hypotension-causing conditions, this condition would be probable.

Certain diseases or disorders can cause lower BP readings. Although neurological disorders like Parkinson’s Disease almost exclusively affect seniors, cardiac disease, and diabetes can be present at any age. Low BP usually is a co-morbidity of these conditions.

Along with chronic health conditions comes medications that can affect blood pressure. Talk with your doctor about any medications you are taking that could make you hypotensive. Such information is crucial for your well-being.

Here is a list of foods that help to normalize blood pressure.

Final Thoughts: The Treatments for Low Blood Pressure

Has your health care provider issued a diagnosis of low BP? The good news is that your physician can treat the condition. Your doctor will provide you with treatment options that can keep your BP at healthy levels. One of the first options is to take a medication that will increase blood volume. Thankfully, many natural supplements and techniques have little to no side effects that can do the same thing.

Self-care is an essential way to deal with a hypotensive situation. If you feel signs that your blood pressure is dropping, then you should lie down immediately. If you are prone to fainting spells, then you want to make sure you don’t fall.

Additionally, drinking water can also help you to calm yourself, which often improves hypotension much better. It’s easy to panic when you feel like you’re going to pass out. So, you must wait until your blood volume rebuilds before getting up again. If you are having continual problems with this issue, then you need to see a doctor right away.

Having low blood pressure can be very serious and can cause severe medical complications. You need to be evaluated to see why this situation is happening and what can be done to fix it.

These Penguins Exploring an Empty Aquarium Will Make You Smile

March 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

While Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium remains closed to the public due to the coronavirus pandemic, this doesn’t stop aquarium employees from making people stuck at the home smile. The animal keepers allowed the penguins at the aquarium to wander the empty exhibit halls and captured all the cuteness on camera for animal lovers.

Since social distancing is being encouraged to stop the spread of the virus, the Shedd Aquarium decided to close its doors on Friday, March 13. However, the aquarium still wanted to make regular visitors happy, so they’ve been posted adorable videos of penguins running rampant in the aquarium on social media platforms.

These penguins exploring an empty aquarium will bring a smile to your face

While it seems strange to see the aquarium so empty, it’s hard not to smile at the penguins despite the scary situation happening outside the walls of the usually packed tourist attraction. The Shedd Aquarium has been posting a series of videos on its Twitter account showing the penguins having a blast while “on a field trip.” The first video was uploaded on Sunday, March 15, and shows a penguin named Wellington looking through the glass at the fish in the Amazon Rising exhibit.

Penguins in the Amazon?

Some of the penguins went on a field trip to meet other animals at Shedd. Wellington seemed most interested in the fishes in Amazon Rising! The black-barred silver dollars also seemed interested in their unusual visitor. pic.twitter.com/KgYWsp5VQD

— Shedd Aquarium (@shedd_aquarium) March 15, 2020

Isn’t Wellington just adorable?! It looks like he and the fish are getting along quite nicely also! The aquarium posted a few more cute videos of the penguins for animal lovers to enjoy.

The second video posted shows resident rockhopper penguins Edward and Annie. They are together for nesting season and got to explore the aquarium’s rotunda while the exhibit halls remained empty. Even though the world outside of the aquarium is a little uncertain right now, it’s still spring nesting season for these adorable penguins.

The adventure continues!

This morning, Edward and Annie explored Shedd’s rotunda. They are a bonded pair of rockhopper penguins, which means they are together for nesting season. Springtime is nesting season for penguins at Shedd, and this year is no different! (1/3) ? pic.twitter.com/VdxN3oQAfe

— Shedd Aquarium (@shedd_aquarium) March 16, 2020

Another video posted on March 16 shows Edward and Annie making their way through the Southeast Asian Streams section. The Twitter post explained that Edward and Annie would start building their nests next week, and the aquarium said they would keep the public updated on nesting coverage.

Penguins like Edward and Annie will begin to build their nests next week. Join us digitally for nesting coverage! In the meantime, we will be sharing lots of different animal updates (and yes, Wellington will return!) ?? (2/3) pic.twitter.com/eCYKOwdOMz

— Shedd Aquarium (@shedd_aquarium) March 16, 2020

The last video posted on the aquarium’s Twitter showed the penguin pair looking around the information desk area. While all of us have to remain at home for a while to stop the spread of the virus, the penguins get to explore more of their surroundings, and we get to watch from the comfort of our homes. The aquarium is asking Twitter users for suggestions on activities for the penguins while the facility remains closed to the public.

While this may be a strange time for us, these days feel normal for animals at Shedd. Our caregivers are constantly providing new experiences for the animals to explore and express their natural behaviors with. Let us know what penguin activities you would like to see! (3/3) pic.twitter.com/ftlow7iPHl

— Shedd Aquarium (@shedd_aquarium) March 16, 2020

Penguins on Saint Patrick’s Day

If you need some more penguin cuteness to ease your stresses during this time, the Shedd also had a St. Patrick’s Day penguin party on Tuesday, March 17, capturing the whole event with pictures for all of us to enjoy.

It’s a #StPatricksDay penguin party! ?? While we can’t go out & party, the animals can! Our caretakers are committed to providing enriching activities (like edible shamrocks) for the animals with or without guests here to see it. Check in throughout the day to see more! pic.twitter.com/Xz1bXd2zk0

— Shedd Aquarium (@shedd_aquarium) March 17, 2020

Final Thoughts: These Penguins Can Provide Distraction for Some Time

It’s heartwarming to see businesses trying to keep a smile on patron’s faces even if they can’t be there in person. Did you enjoy these adorable pictures of penguins running loose in this aquarium? Let us know in the comments below!

Kind Karate Sensei Helps Kids Fight Anxiety

March 25, 2020 by Deborah Tayloe

A kind karate sensei knew that children would feel fear and anxiety as schools shut down due to the coronavirus. He also knew that martial arts would allow children to engage in physical activity and focus their minds.

Meet Del Rounds. He’s a Professor of Criminal Justice at the Edinboro University of Pennsylvania by day. In the evenings, he is the Sensei at Edinboro Family Martial Arts Center.

As he left the dojo to begin the mandatory closure of educational facilities on March 11, 2020, his heart was heavy. He knew the children he taught looked forward to their karate lessons. Furthermore, he was keenly aware that their daily routines were upended. He knew that abrupt change causes many children to experience feelings of loss, sadness, and even anxiety.

He knew he needed to help, and he wanted to make a difference during this time of great need. But how?

As he turned the key to lock up the building, an idea formed in his mind. He described his thought process, as follows:

“I would teach online karate classes. For anyone! For free!”

He had not formulated how he’d accomplish it precisely, but he knew he must do it.

The world of martial arts has always thrived on the principles of resilience and adaptability, especially during challenging times. Many students have found comfort and solace in their training, using the dojo as a sanctuary from the chaos outside. Mastery Martial Arts, with its focus on building both physical and mental strength, empowers practitioners to navigate life’s uncertainties with grace. This philosophy fosters a sense of community among students, uniting them in their shared commitment to growth and self-improvement.

In the face of adversity, martial arts serve as a powerful tool for cultivating discipline and focus. As students practice their techniques, they not only hone their physical skills but also develop a deeper understanding of themselves. The lessons learned on the mat—persistence in the face of challenges, respect for others, and the importance of mental clarity—translate into valuable life skills. It is through this lens of perseverance that individuals can find hope and motivation, proving that even in the most trying times, the spirit of martial arts remains unbroken.

Over the next five days, Del and a student and volunteer, Sensei Noah, set up the virtual dojo setting, preparing for their first students. They launched the program on Monday, March 16, 2020. They used nothing more than a smartphone and their WiFi to deliver the first online class. Much to their surprise (and delight), over 200 children joined in on that first session.

https://www.facebook.com/EdinboroKarate/videos/634678440703118/

Karate alleviates anxiety for children

It turns out that Del was onto something.

Research published in 2019 in the American Journal of Men’s Health demonstrates that karate does provide many positive benefits–one of which is the easing of feelings of anxiety.

Karate empowers people to feel healthy and focused. It balances the mind even as it strengthens the body. The benefits identified by the same study include the following:

Improves both anxiety and depression
Provides participants with positive role models and mentors
Breaks down social barriers
Provides opportunities to socialize in a positive environment
Offers a form of exercise in a fun class setting
Increases feelings of mental and physical wellness.

Sensei Del summed up the benefits succinctly.

“The benefits of anyone learning karate is that you learn how to truly focus and concentrate in a safe, but challenging, environment. Students also develop an indomitable spirit and an “internal locus of control.”

Sensei Del offers advice to children who feel anxiety during the shelter in place orders

Our children are out of school. In some states, officials still call it an undetermined period. This makes our little ones feel displaced, nervous, and even depressed. When asked to share advice for the children of the Power of Positivity community, Del stated very simply,

“This will pass. We will get through this time and things will be normal again, but we will be stronger because of it. Guaranteed.” ~Del Rounds

Learn how to cultivate your child’s talents.

Sensei Del Invites Your Children to Join in the Fun, Too!

Sensei Del is offering these free karate classes Monday through Friday at 11 am to help kids overcome the anxiety that stems from all the uncertainty. He wants to continue to help spread the positivity, so he wants to invite your children to attend the thirty-minute session, too!

Who knows, maybe your child will develop a new sport and release some pent-up energy.

You can join the class through their Facebook page. Just click the link for that day’s lesson, and you’ll join. No fees, no formal registration process, no fuss. Del genuinely just wants to use karate to do his part in helping families during these difficult days. And that’s the type of kindness that will get us all through this pandemic.

10 Ways to Stay Connected During Social Distancing

March 25, 2020 by Power of Positivity

With the Covid-19 virus threat reaching dangerous points, social distancing has become a necessary mandate. Some people are loners and don’t mind keeping others at arm’s length. However, the vast majority is finding isolation challenging, especially when they want to talk to their friends and family.

If you find yourself going stir crazy during the mandatory “shelter at home orders,” then here are ten ways that you can keep the communication between you and your inner circle going strong.

1. Join a Virtual Book Club

If you long to connect with people who are interested in similar things as you, then you should consider joining a virtual book club. Book clubs are an excellent way to meet new people and learn about fantastic books that you can enjoy.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of book clubs online for you to explore. You can pick the club that matches your interests. Reading is a great way to stretch your brain and relax your body.

It’s hard to feel stressed or lonely when you are curled up with a good book and chatting with friends. A great author can take you on a magical journey that will have you engrossed for hours. Why not pick up a classic series and finish the entire trilogy?

Getting lost in a book will make the social distancing time fly by. Light some candles, put on some soft music, and find a good book to read. All this downtime will help you to will enhance your literary skills.

2. Use Those Unlimited Text Messages

Most major carriers offer free unlimited text messages. You don’t really need to focus on the aspects of the virus and the restrictions it has placed. Rather, you can text your friends, family members, and coworkers freely.

Texting is one of the best ways to keep in contact with people. You can have many conversations going on at once. There’s never a need to feel isolated when you can pick up your phone and engage in a text conversation.

One of the great things about technology is that you can send pictures back and forth through your texts. If you are “shut-in” away from family and friends, then you can send them pictures of your kids or other things going on at your abode.

When social distancing is between you and those you love, then use texting to ensure that you stay connected. It will also help to keep you from getting bored during all these days of isolation.

3. Face Time

Forget making traditional phone calls; you can make video calls. When you can see the person on the other line, it makes things so much better. It will seem as if there is no distance between you and the other party.

Face time apps and similar ones are available on your cell phone. You can easily connect with someone thousands of miles away without issue. While the quality of the call is not going to be perfect, it’s still a great way to connect on a personal level.

Social distancing can be a challenging experience when you are alone. However, using the power of online resources and apps, you can connect and feel as if you are with someone even if just talking by phone.

4. Virtual Game Night

You can play games with your friends and family without ever leaving your living room. Using one of the main game systems like Xbox or PlayStation, you can connect with others via the internet. You can play games and pass the time away.

Many people will play for hours without even realizing where the time has gone. Social distancing doesn’t mean that you can’t be social. You can have fun with people from around the world and play some of the hottest games around.

5. Virtual Night with Friends

There’s no reason to cancel your night out with friends, but you will need to change it up a bit. You can have a virtual night out using online resources. Skype or Zoom can let you have your time with friends, and you don’t even need to leave your home.

Schedule a time for everyone to log in together. Then, together you can try a great new restaurant in town, a new wine, or even give each other cooking lessons. There’s no reason that you need to keep yourself from your friends when you can have a virtual game night with the touch of a button.

Psychologists explain why you need friendships. Let’s keep these in mind during social distancing.

6. Keep Social Media Updated

Whether you like Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram doesn’t matter. There are tons of social media sites for you to hang out on. You should select a platform and keep it updated.

Many people don’t even scroll their local newspapers anymore as they can find all the things they need on social media. Check these accounts often for any changes that might be happening with your family and friends.

Also, be sure that you update your wall with pictures and events going on in your home. You can ease your family’s minds when they can see that everything in your neck of the woods is going swell.

7. Have a “Netflix Party”

Who doesn’t love to Netflix and chill? However, it’s always better when you have someone that you can watch a new series or movie with rather than alone. You can now hook up to a Netflix party and make isolation seem less mundane.

You can have group chats and sync videos that allows you to watch hundreds of hours of television with others. The whole key to this app is that you will have frequent interaction with others watching the same show.

You can get spoilers, learn things you might have missed, and chat with other enthusiasts that are enjoying a show you like. You will never have to watch television alone again after you learn how to use the Netflix party app.

8. Write a Letter

If you thought that writing letters was something that hasn’t been done in decades, well, it’s something that fell by the way because it takes time. People in the 21st century don’t seem to have a lot of time. However, with the social restrictions being placed on this country, it seems time is not an issue.

Now that you have all this extra time on your hands, why not write a letter? Dust off the old stationery set and find someone who would enjoy this act of kindness. It means so much more when you take the time to write to someone.

It shows real effort to write a letter, put it in the envelope, and put a stamp on it to mail. It’s a bit more of a complicated process than it is to send an email or text, but it can certainly surprise the recipient.

9. Join an Online Community

Many online communities can take hours to scroll through all the things that interest you. Reddit is just one of the fan-favorite places that you can visit. You can become an active participant and get all the socialization that you need.

You can find people from all over the world that have the same interests as you. There is a real sense of community on these sites, so it will be easy to forget about the social distancing orders. You can ask questions, post pictures, and browse the hundreds of responses you will get.

There are tons of subheadings that are anything from eating healthy to fan groups for your favorite movies. Some of the comments on sites like this are for full shock value.

However, you will learn things you never knew about, read stories of inspiration, and you will have a chance to express your opinions too. If you need to socialize, then one of these online communities is the place to be.

10. Make an Effort to Talk to One Person Each Day

While you may be doing well to hold it together during this time of confusion in our world, some of your friends and family members might not be doing as well. A global pandemic can be quite frightening to people who have depression and anxiety.

Make an effort every day to call at least one person and talk to them on the phone. Make a list of all the people that you want to make contact with during this period. Include people like your parents and grandparents, siblings, high school friends, and people in nursing homes.

Those in nursing homes are often the loneliest. They can’t have any visitors at all during this time of isolation. By reaching out to others every day, it will help to combat your angst as well as their loneliness.

Final Thoughts: Making the Best of a Bad Situation

There are so many negative things in the world that it’s hard to focus on the positive. However, you must remind yourself that bad things do happen, but society will recover.

The important thing is to keep your mental health in check during times when socialization is not easy. You have to go beyond your comfort zone and use technology to reach out to people.

Having a social life can still happen even when you are on a social distancing order. You must be creative, think outside the box, and use the online resources to get your social fix. Just keep telling yourself that this too shall pass, and it will. Plus, being alone is sometimes a nice break too.

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

The adventure continues!

Penguins on Saint Patrick’s Day

Final Thoughts: These Penguins Can Provide Distraction for Some Time

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