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Science Explains 5 Foods That Help Kill Cancer Cells

March 10, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Hippocrates was the father of Western medicine, and he recommended that his patients use food for treatment. Centuries before modern technology and medical advances, he realized how an essential diet was imperative to overall well-being. Current research is finding that Hippocrates may be on the right track, even when it comes to specific foods that fight cancer cells.

Published Cancer Warnings

Have you noticed the many warnings over the years about things that may cause cancer? Studies such as the one published by The US Library of Medicine continue to warn the public about tanning lights and UV radiation. This is an external product that has serious cancer risks.

Other products that may encourage cancer are taken internally, such as tobacco smoke. A publication from the US Department of Health and Human Services states that the Surgeon General has been publishing information about smoking hazards since 1964. The article mentions that smoking remains the top cause of preventable deaths in America.

Are There Links Between Diet and Cancer?

You don’t need to smoke or use a tanning light to survive, but you need to eat. How does nutrition play into the fight against cancer prevention? Are there foods that you should avoid as well as foods that are beneficial?

A publication from the National Cancer Institute states that one of the first food products to fall under scientific scrutiny was saccharin. Do you remember the hype and cancer risk concerns about this artificial sweetener published in the 1970s? Although current studies find conflicting evidence, it’s one of the cases that piqued scientific investigations into other possible links between food products and cancer.

Your Diet is Up to You

It’s not easy for medical researchers to prove beyond question that consuming a certain food can cause cancer. However, a study from the National Center for Biotechnology Information states positive correlations between good nutrition and cancer prevention. It also mentions a noticeable link between obesity and poor eating habits with an increased risk of malignancy.

The good news is that you are in control of what you eat. Other possible cancer risks, such as heredity and environment, are out of your hands. Did you know that studies from the American Cancer Society report that approximately 42 percent of cancer diagnoses and 45 percent of cancer deaths in America may have been preventable?

Healthy eating habits are not a silver bullet. No guarantees exist that eating certain foods or abstaining from others will prevent cancer. However, there is compelling evidence that a healthy lifestyle and eating pattern may reduce your risks.

Strive for These Five Foods that May Kill Cancer Cells

There are plenty of studies that show a positive correlation between what you eat and your overall health. The evidence that eating a plant-based lifestyle and its effects on your body cannot be denied. Here are some of the foods that are stated to have a dramatic impact on keeping malignancy at bay.

1. Cruciferous Vegetables

Remember how your mother always encouraged you to eat your vegetables? It turns out that Mom knows what she’s saying. A publication from the USDA recommends that adults get at least 1-3 cups of veggies each day, depending on gender, age, and activity level.

Of particular interest to cancer prevention researchers are cruciferous vegetables. Cruciferous is a Latin word that means “cross-bearing.” It includes veritable members of the mustard green family, which bears cross-shaped leaves.

Some of these may be among your favorite veggies, such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, watercress, and Brussels sprouts. They vary in color and shape but are known for their unique peppery flavor and imitable “cabbage” smell when cooking.

First, cruciferous veggies are loaded with vitamins and minerals, like Vitamin C, folate, and beta-carotene says a publication from the National Cancer Institute. You’ll also get plenty of fiber when you consume these veggies. The article touts the possible benefits of these fighting cancer.

The article states that the sulfurous scent you recognize from these vegetables comes from compounds called glucosinolates. According to a study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, these compounds break down into other substances called isothiocyanates, which have demonstrated cancer inhibitive properties.

2. Fruit

Fruit has naturally sweet goodness that makes it Mother Nature’s perfect dessert. Since most fruit has an appealing flavor, you may have an easy time consuming your daily recommendation. You should aim for 4-5 servings of fruit each day.

However, not all fruits are created equal when it comes to possible cancer prevention. Berries have received a lot of attention in the world of medical research. A publication from the American Institute for Cancer Research recommends blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, and cherries. These fruits have fiber and other nutrients that may help combat cancer cells.

3. Tomatoes

Who would have guessed that this beloved food was once considered deadly poisonous? An online article from Science-Based Medicine shares the historical misunderstanding of the tomato, also called the Pomodoro. For one, they are related to belladonna, the infamously poisonous nightshade. Although tomato vines are dangerous to eat, the fruit is not only safe but tasty and healthy for you.

What would your favorite salad or pasta sauce be without the tangy zest of the Pomodoro? You’ll be glad to know that the American Institute of Cancer Research shares positive correlations between consuming tomatoes and fighting cancer. Of particular interest are compounds like beta-carotene and lycopene.

4. Green Tea

The next time you enjoy a hot cup of tea, think about some of its possible health benefits. Did you know that green tea, black tea, and oolong tea come from the same plant? All three come from the Camellia sinensis plant, and the only difference is how the leaves are processed.

According to the article, green tea is the least processed of the three. An intensive study published by the National Cancer Institute found a good link between consuming tea and cancer prevention. The researchers also discovered that it might stop various cancers from spreading once they start in the body.

Doctors explain how colorectal cancer can appear in younger adults.

5. The Spices of Life

As early humans learned about their world by hunting and foraging, they discovered plants, roots, and seeds for medicine and sacred rituals. They also found that these herbs and spices smelled and tasted delicious and were the perfect addition to many cuisines.

• Turmeric

If you are a fan of curries and authentic Indian-inspired food, you have a jar of ground turmeric in your pantry. This plant’s golden roots are a precious commodity to India and other parts of Asia. Turmeric holds a place of honor in traditional Ayurvedic medicine and many Indian cuisines.

According to a study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which stated favorable results as a cancer fighter. You can enjoy ground turmeric as a food seasoning, in a tea recipe, or as a supplement. The study says that the curcumin in turmeric may have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties.

• Cayenne Pepper

Are you a fan of hot peppers? Maybe these mainstays of Mexican, Spanish, and Asian-inspired cooking can also benefit your health. A group of researchers published a study for the American Association for Cancer Research about capsaicin, the compound found in red peppers like cayenne. Capsaicin is responsible for the spicy heat.

The researchers were studying how capsaicin may kill prostate cancer cells. The results were positive, but the writers said that more research was needed. This study also focused on prostate cancer, not other specific types.

• Garlic

Garlic has been a beloved plant since ancient times. Not only has it been used for food and a magical amulet to ward off evil, but it’s also been respected for its powerful medicinal qualities. A study by the US Library of Medicine confirms its possible use as an antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, and perchance killing cancer cells.

The study mentions possible benefits from consuming garlic raw, cooked, or it’s pressed essential oil. Anjoene, states the study, is the compound in garlic that has shown promise in preventing or destroying certain cancer cells. Still, the researchers conclude that more long-term studies on garlic therapy’s effectiveness are needed.

• Lavender

You’ve probably noticed that companies have been using essential lavender oil for everything from botanical cleaning supplies to holistic toiletries and skincare products. Like many other essential oils, lavender has been used for centuries for food, skincare, and medicine. Studies such as one published by the U.S. Library of Medicine displays its positive effect on the human nervous system.

Did you know that this iconic scented herb may also be a possible tool against specific cancer cells? The National Library of Medicine published a study that showed how lavender might reduce the number of prostate cancer cells. These are only preliminary studies, and more research is being conducted, says the publication.

Final Thoughts on a Healthy Diet and Cancer Prevention

There’s no argument that maintaining a healthy diet and fitness regimen can benefit your health. Although these studies show promise in using certain foods to combat cancer cells, nothing has proven to avoid or cure it. The race is still on for more research and hope in the future.

7 Signs Someone Has a Victim Mentality

March 10, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Do you or someone you know have a victim mentality? Feeling like the world is out to get you or blaming your circumstances and emotions on others are a couple of first signs of this mindset. Everything is always unfair, and it is never the victim’s fault. This mindset will get the person’s attention, but it does no good for them in the long run.

Of course, bad things happen in life, such as sexual assault or abuse, and in these cases, the victim has every right to blame the other person. However, a victim mindset differs in that this is the lens the person sees through. In other words, their entire lives center around the idea that nothing good ever happens, and they don’t deserve a happy life. They tend to see the world in a glass-half-empty kind of way.

The victim mentality believes that nothing ever goes their way and that people should give them sympathy. In a way, it is the perfect excuse to never take action or responsibility for choices, because the blame is always passed off to someone else.

“Today is a new day. Don’t let your history interfere with your destiny! Let today be the day you stop being a victim of your circumstances and start taking action towards the life you want. You have the power and the time to shape your life. Break free from the poisonous victim mentality and embrace the truth of your greatness. You were not meant for a mundane or mediocre life!” – Steve Maraboli

Here are seven key signs of a victim mentality:

1 – Never taking responsibility for choices.

The victim mentality never takes ownership of their lives because they find it easier to blame others for their bad choices. Whether that means getting stuck in past trauma as a way to avoid the present or pitying themselves for a series of bad decisions, the victim will always find a way to avoid responsibility. Interestingly, some experts from Betting Sites Not On Gamstop LTD have noted how this mindset can even manifest in risky behaviors, like gambling, where individuals might blame external factors for their losses. We all have pasts that have given us scars, but to move forward in life, we must deal with our problems. We cannot escape them by using our past as an excuse for inaction.

2 – Blaming everyone but themselves for misfortune.

When a series of unfortunate events happen, the victim will never look within themselves for answers. Instead, they blame their past, parents, job, stock market, economy, bad weather, finances, sister, friends…you name it. They will try to use it as an excuse. If you come across someone who never owns up to their mistakes and instead blames them on others, they probably have a victim mentality.

3 – You seek attention from others by complaining.

Victims thrive on attention, but not the good kind. Instead of doing positive things with their life that would promote positive reactions from others, they thrive on chaos and negativity. In their eyes, any attention is better than no attention, as this is the only way they know to behave. Complaining gets you pity and perhaps advice, which makes you feel safe and comfortable with never changing. The victim will always find an excuse to stay stuck by not taking action, yet complaining about their circumstances.

4 – You think others are purposely out to get you.

Victims have a hard time trusting others and think everyone has some sort of plan. They play this card so that the blame is never on them. The world is a hostile, scary place in their eyes, and others couldn’t possibly have good intentions. They constantly have their guard up because of their negative mindset, clouds their judgment, and puts them in fight-or-flight mode.

5 – You feel inferior to others in some way.

This feeling usually goes back to having low self-esteem, as the victim tends to have a past of childhood problems. Their parents might not have given them the right kind of love or attention, or perhaps neglected to provide positive reinforcement. As a result, the victim never feels good enough and must always seek attention in negative ways, as they don’t know how to build positive relationships.

6 – The victim mentality overreacts to every problem.

Victims see every small issue as the end of the world because they want to have something to complain about. The victim mentality doesn’t know how to deal with things in a calm, rational behavior, because they thrived in chaos at an early age. The victim will first react emotionally before trying to sort out problems with logic.

7 – They feel powerless to take any action.

As we’ve said before, the victim mentality often leaves a person feeling stuck and unsatisfied with their lives. They might want change but don’t know how to implement it. As a result, they resort to blaming others, complaining, unhealthy habits, and other negative coping skills.

How a person with a victim mentality claims power

We’ve made victims out to be powerless, but they just use their power in subtle ways. For instance, getting others to feel sorry for you means you might manipulate them into staying in a toxic relationship or doing errands for you. It could cause others to walk on eggshells around you because they don’t want to upset you.

Or, you might convince your partner to stay in a codependent relationship. The victim often plays the role of a caregiver in a relationship, as they typically have low self-esteem and don’t think they deserve healthy relationships. However, the victim often uses their bad relationship to guilt-trip their partner or have a ”poor me” attitude.

This is also a tactic that sociopaths and psychopaths use in relationships. For instance, they might constantly put their partner down, but when the partner addresses this, they try to gaslight them. Eventually, the other person doesn’t know if their memories were correct or not because the victim wants to guilt them into believing they’re wrong. The abuser uses their victim mentality to justify awful actions. If you’re in a relationship with someone like this, please don’t hesitate to seek help. Everyone deserves to feel safe in their relationship.

Why do victims act that way?

Most of the time, the victim mentality begins in early childhood. Perhaps the parents taught their children to act like a victim by complaining about the world all the time or having a negative mindset in general. The child would mentally store this away as a way to get attention from their parents.

Or, they had a codependent, unhealthy attachment to their parents. They might have had to take care of them mentally or physically or believe they have to make them happy. This often happens when parents have severe depression or anxiety. In unattached parenting styles, the child believes he or she must make the parents happy, and this often means getting attention in unhealthy ways. The child believes they must earn love or act sick or weak to get attention.

Unfortunately, some children experience sexual or verbal abuse, which makes them feel helpless. This learned helplessness carries over into adulthood, and they will seek out relationships with people who repeat these patterns. It often takes years of therapy to retrain the mind to avoid these situations and reset belief systems.

What should you do if you’re the one with the victim mentality?

Because victim mentality is a learned behavior, you can always unlearn it. This often takes therapy, but positive affirmations and journaling can help as well. Just remember that you have the power to control your life, and no one else can steer the ship for you. Learn to process the feelings that keep you in that victimized state, and move forward, knowing you deserve the best life can offer.

On the other hand, if someone else in your life displays this behavior, you may want to take a step back and reevaluate your friendship. They might need to do some healing, and as long as they recognize that, then they’re headed in the right direction. However, if they don’t see anything wrong with their behavior, it would probably be best to leave the friendship behind for your own sake.

Final thoughts on recognizing the victim mentality

Being a victim in life is like setting yourself on fire and expecting the other person to get burned. It will only hurt you in the end, even though you’re placing blame on others. Take responsibility for your life, because no one else will do it for you. If you want to move forward, process any emotions you might have about the past, and then let it go. Focus on the present, because it is all any of us has, after all.

Serious issues might need to be worked out in therapy, but doing self-help exercises such as journaling, goal setting, positive affirmations, and even hypnosis can work wonders. The mind is a battlefield sometimes, but everyone deserves to feel good about themselves. If you want to move on from a victim mentality, remember that you have the power to do so at any time, and you can turn your life in any direction you choose.

7 Signs Your Soul Is Asking For A Change

March 10, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Sometimes, we get so wrapped up in keeping up with responsibilities that we start to lose ourselves. One day, we might look into the mirror and not even recognize the person staring back at us. Perhaps we’ve spent too long in the wrong job, relationship, town, or friend circle, and our soul feels heavy because we haven’t been listening to it.

Feeling restless or bored can mean you desperately need a change, so your soul feels content. It doesn’t have to be a huge life change; even something like taking a new art or workout class can fill that void. However, it takes getting honest with yourself and digging deep to figure out where you’ve been neglecting yourself.

“The only way that we can live, is if we grow, the only way that we can grow is if we change, the only way that we can change is if we learn. The only way we can learn is if we are exposed. And the only way that we can become exposed is if we throw ourselves out into the open. Do it. Throw yourself.” ? C. JoyBell C.

Does this sound like you? If so, read on for some definite signs that your soul needs a change.

7 Signs Your Soul Is Ready for a Life Change

It’s time to stop resisting change.

1 – You feel restless and discontent most of the time.

If you often feel disengaged from your work and stare out the office window wishing for something better, your soul probably needs a drastic change. Many people these days feel trapped in their jobs either due to mounting stress, unfulfilling work, or overly demanding bosses. In fact, according to a world poll by Gallup, only 15% of the 1 billion full-time workers surveyed are engaged at work. That means 85% of workers are unhappy at their jobs.

If how you spend the majority of your time doesn’t fulfill your soul any longer, perhaps you need a career change. Maybe you want to work for yourself or go back to school for a different degree. In this case, you need to listen to your intuition to figure out the right move for you.

Boredom can lead to health problems, as studies prove that disengaged, unfulfilled people run a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other mental issues.

Remember that you pull the strings behind the curtain, and not anyone else. You have all the power in the world to change your circumstances if you wish – all it takes is some soul searching and an action plan to make your dreams a reality.

2 – You’re not living your passions.

When your alarm goes off in the morning, do you feel energized and ready to get to work? Or, do you feel drained and dismal about the day ahead? If you answered yes to the latter, then your soul needs a change. You have to ask yourself what you want to spend your time doing. What makes you come alive, and what skills do you have that other people can benefit from?

The longer you silence the voice within, the more persistent it will become. If you feel a sense of restlessness and weight on your soul, that probably means you’re not living out your dreams. Get in touch with your inner child so you can truly live your soul’s purpose and not have regrets when you get older. You never know if you never try.

3 – You’ve taken up bad habits.

When people become disengaged and unhappy with their lives, they often mask their emotions with drugs, alcohol, unhealthy food, gambling, or other addictions. While some people believe addictions are simply a byproduct of our busy modern lives, they can be overcome with mindfulness and replacing bad habits with good ones.

Self-destructive behavior is rampant in today’s world, but if you start to live from your heart and soul rather than your mind, you’ll find that you no longer need those addictions to mask the pain. If you look at the habits of successful people who follow their passions, most of them talk about the importance of good practices. For instance, waking up before everyone else so they can map out their day or exercise, eating a healthy breakfast, avoiding negative people, and reading a lot of books are some habits of successful people. Living your soul’s purpose will require massive upgrades from you, but it will be well worth it.

4 – You feel out of place where you’re at.

Maybe you feel more like a tourist in your town than a resident, or perhaps the house you’re living in brings up bad memories. Whatever the case, your soul just feels like it doesn’t belong. Recognizing this is the first step to figuring out your next move. Just like a flower, people need the right environment to grow and thrive. If you’re not moving in the right direction or are surrounded by negative people, perhaps your soul is asking for a change of location.

Feeling out of place could mean a number of things, such as:

feeling like you don’t belong with your friend group any longer
not enjoying your job or career
wanting to move on from a toxic relationship
not recognizing yourself or feeling like yourself

If any of those sounds like you, start listening to your soul more often – it will tell you exactly what you need.

5 – You feel like you’re outgrowing other people, including yourself.

Everyone we meet plays a role in our lives, whether they stick around for the long haul or for a short time. We come across everyone for a reason, but we can outgrow them once they’ve served their purpose in our lives. It’s okay to end friendships or relationships that no longer resonate with your soul. You can do this in a healthy, polite way by distancing yourself or just being honest about where you’re at.

Remember that this can also apply to yourself as well. If you feel like you’re crawling and uncomfortable in your skin, then maybe it’s time you look in the mirror and ask yourself some deep questions. However, remember that you can recreate yourself at any time, and it doesn’t require moving to a foreign country and totally upending your life. Start with your mindset and the things you tell yourself on a daily basis and watch your life change.

“People talk about depression all the time. The difference between depression and sadness is sadness is just from happenstance—whatever happened or didn’t happen for you, or grief, or whatever it is. Depression is your body saying f*ck you, I don’t want to be this character anymore, I don’t want to hold up this avatar that you’ve created in the world. It’s too much for me.” – Jim Carrey

6 – You always feel exhausted

Having a soul that needs a change will feel like you’re carrying a weight in your chest. If you can’t wait to get back in bed when you’re at work, feel disconnected from the people around you, and just feel downright exhausted, you definitely need a change. Examine your life to see what needs changing, and then come up with an action plan. We all deserve to feel alive in this lifetime, so do whatever it takes to free your soul. Even if that means leaving a job that makes you miserable or moving to a new town for a fresh start, it’s worth the unknowns.

7 – You feel numb most of the time.

Your soul needs a detox if you feel nothing most of the time. Of course, having erratic emotions isn’t good either, but it’s healthy to be somewhere in between. In general, your life should have a sense of fulfillment and purpose. If you don’t find meaning in your life, your soul will start to feel disengaged, and that’s where depression sets in. We shouldn’t feel happy all the time, but if you’re feeling unhappy the majority of the time, your soul needs a change.

“We treat the chronic pain with pain medication, we treat the insomnia with sleeping pills, we treat the weight issues with diet and exercise. And most damagingly, we may label soul loss as mental illness, such as depression, and cover up the symptoms with psychiatric medications that may make things worse by slapping a Band-aid on a wound that’s not healing underneath the bandage,” says physician, speaker and author Lissa Rankin, MD.

Final thoughts about signs your soul needs a change

Everyone goes through phases in life where they feel unfulfilled and uninspired. If this sounds like you, then work on making lifestyle changes such as having an action plan for your dreams, taking better care of your health, listening to your intuition, and removing toxic people from your life. Don’t beat yourself up for not having it all figured out, either. Truthfully, no one does – some of us are just really good at pretending.

Studies Reveal That Husbands Put As Much Stress on Wives as Children

March 10, 2020 by Power of Positivity

In our fast-paced world today, both men and women have to shoulder more responsibilities and stress. Add children into the mix, and life can get pretty hectic, pretty quickly. We all do our best, but all of life’s pressures can get overwhelming, especially if one person doesn’t pull their weight. Also, women usually bear most of the caretaking responsibilities for their children, so they already have high levels of stress in most cases.

Married women experience stress, just like single moms. They have to maintain their job, households, relationships, themselves, and possibly children as well. According to the American Psychological Association, women have more symptoms associated with stress, such as fatigue, lack of energy, and anxiety. Women also report having more emotion-related stress, such as feeling like they could cry or lie awake at night due to overthinking.

Most people would think children cause more stress in people’s lives than their spouses, but according to a survey by today.com, 46% of wives say their husbands cause them more stress than children.

Below, we’ll go over the various ways that husbands may cause stress in their spouses’ lives. (This isn’t to hate on the awesome husbands out there, by the way! However, perhaps you can take a pointer or two away from this article). 🙂

How Husbands Cause Stress on Their Spouses

1 – Taking care of a husband can feel like having an extra child.

Men take a longer time than women to mature. This fact might mean that the woman must take care of her man as if he were another child in the family. While this might help them bond with their children more, it adds a lot of stress to a man’s wife if she must parent both of them. Between nonchalant attitudes about important issues to staying up late playing video games instead of helping around the house, men sometimes have a way of getting under a woman’s skin.

Most of the time, dads play with children, but moms typically do fewer fun activities, such as washing clothes and cooking. Of course, moms do anything for their children, but the added responsibilities can take their toll. Gender roles have become more equal in recent years as stresses and chores increase, but studies show that moms still carry the burden of tasks compared to men.

Mothers pay more attention to their children’s health, discipline, sleep schedule, education, and other essential aspects of their lives that are crucial for development. Women follow their children’s needs more because they are natural nurturers and caregivers. While children might seem to favor their dads more because they have more playtime with them, women play just as important a role in bringing up their children.

Women do more solo parenting, according to Cornell University, so this adds to their stress as well. Researchers stated that women play with their children, but it accounts for less of a share of their time than men since women have to juggle more household chores related to parenting.

Ways dads can help out:

Offer to do some of the chores during the week. Make some of the child’s doctor appointments, cook dinners, do laundry, or clean up the kitchen. Any little thing helps to take some stress away from Mom.
Make sure to talk to your wife about ways you want to discipline children. Both of you should be on the same page when it comes to setting rules and boundaries for your kids.
When you get home from work, see what your wife needs help with instead of plopping down on the couch and watching TV. There’s always time for that in the evening, but your wife will certainly appreciate a helping hand in the household chores.

2 – The mounting household chores can get overwhelming.

A study found that 20% of moms say that not having enough help around the house contributes to their daily stress. Wives allocate more of their time to housework, while men spend more of their time in leisure. Women must often clean, cook, wash clothes, pay bills, manage the budget, and do other tasks that help keep the family afloat. Taking all of this on as one person can get overwhelming very quickly. However, doing chores as a team promotes bonding and can even be fun if you play some music and talk about your day as you move through the tasks.

Ways dads can help:

Have shared household responsibilities, or at least do them together.
Tell your wife you appreciate what she does for the family
Have your parents or grandparents watch the kids for a night or two, so you and the wife can have some much-needed quiet time without chores.

Manage the stress of getting it all done with these productivity tips.

3 – Women often feel alone in parenting and are strained for time.

If women work full-time and care for their children at night, they will undoubtedly feel strained. Tending to the child’s needs, making dinner, cleaning, paying bills, and doing all the expected duties can take a toll. Plus, their man might work more hours so the woman can come home to their child, but parenting alone is no easy feat. In addition to feelings of loneliness with parenting, feeling constrained to the 24 hours a day to accomplish everything can become overwhelming.

Plus, women often take the blame for feeling guilty when something goes wrong in their family or personal life. This is probably because women feel obligated to care for their families since they are natural nurturers. Guilt can lead to additional stress, especially if something happens to the child when the man is at work or doing other chores.

Ways dads can help:

Try to reduce work hours to help out around the house more. Even if that means working from home a couple of days a week, this could help the woman greatly with the chores and responsibilities.
Give your partner a day at the spa and take over the parenting. She will thank you because moms could use some more self-care days!
Help her with significant decisions so she doesn’t feel as guilty when something goes wrong. Working as a team is always better than doing things alone.

Here are some tips as a whole for reducing stress:

1 – Find social support

Continue working as a team with your partner
Have friends that uplift you and help you mitigate stress
Create an emotional support system
Minimize social stress by unfollowing harmful media pages and reducing or eliminating toxic people from your life

2 – Take care of yourself

While it’s essential to take care of your children and family, you have to fill your cup up as well. Here are some tips on how to do that:

Get enough sleep
Eat balanced meals
Have some alone time devoted to relaxing things like meditation or yoga

Take time for self-care!

3 – Create balance in your life

Try not to over-schedule yourself with activities, and that includes children’s activities as well. Have a healthy balance between work, play, social relationships, leisure time, and children’s needs. Downsize your expectations and demands on yourself to get more out of your obligations and responsibilities.

4 – Foster positive mental health

Getting in the right frame of mind will enhance your relationships and mental health. Plus, you’ll enjoy your kids more if you’re in a good mood and optimistic about life.

Soak up the good times
Remember that the bad times are temporary
Give thanks every day for what you’ve been given.
Focus on what your spouse and kids are bringing to your life, not the stress they cause you
Know that your marriage or relationship will change after having kids, and this is normal. However, it’s no reason to panic or think of divorce as a solution.
Have date nights
Do things that make you laugh
Be patient with yourself and your family
Have play dates with other moms and their kids
Take time for yourself

Final thoughts about how husbands can stress wives out

We’re not here to knock the dads and husbands out there. We know you work hard and do a great job raising your children and families. We’re just here to point out some ways to improve your relationship with your wife and children. In general, be there to help your wife out with whatever she may need. We know it’s not as fun as playing with the kids, but helping to cook dinners, clean up, wash clothes, and pay bills will take a mountain of stress off your woman’s shoulders.

Relationships are teamwork, and you’ll face many battles in this lifetime. However, when you can tackle problems together, they are that much less scary in the long run. Remember, your wife and kids want to spend time with you and cherish every moment, and helping out around the house more allows more time for memories to be made.

Doctors Explain How to Tell When It’s Time for Hospice

March 10, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Do your end-of-life plans include a stipulation for hospice care? They should, as the time to make your wishes known, is before you need services.

Throughout the years, you’ve planned for your life with care. Nobody wants to think about dying. Yet, mortality is just as inevitable as birth.

Have you considered what you would do if you or a loved one were diagnosed with a terminal illness? How would you want to live out your final days? Like most people, you want your limited time to be as dignified and pain-free as possible.

In these situations, many people choose hospice for themselves or terminally ill family members. Just hearing the word may elicit anxiety and popular misconceptions. Knowing what palliative or comfort care is and what it is not can broaden your understanding of better end-of-life decisions.

History of Comfort Care

One of our greatest fear of dying is that we do not want to suffer. Maybe you have watched a terminally ill love one racked in pain and suffering a deplorable dying process. You probably vowed that you never wanted that to be your plight.

Palliative care is a relatively new approach to care for the dying. As late as the 1960s, families sought alternative end-of-life care that minimized pain and involved a holistic approach to treat body, mind, and spirit. The first hospice houses in the United States were run by volunteer medical staff with help from their local communities.

Up until recently, palliative and end-of-life care training were sparse for doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals. Excellent medical practice and techniques concentrate on treating diseases and injuries to make people healthy again. Little attention was given to how to keep terminally ill patients comfortable when curative treatments are no longer useful.

Today, comfort care options are available almost everywhere in America, from major medical centers to small privately-owned palliative clinics. Palliative care is a recognized and paid benefit for people who have Medicare, Medicaid, or both. If you or someone in your family is facing terminal illness and further treatments are futile, palliative care is a reassuring option.

Common Misconceptions of Hospice Care

We are all terrified of the unknown, so the correct information we have, the better we can make critical decisions. When you hear the word “hospice” or “palliative care,” what comes to mind? Do you imagine a Dr. Kevorkian giving you a lethal injection if you have a terminal illness?

Isn’t that what palliative care does, and aren’t they mercy killers? While it may seem absurd, many people still believe this myth. Not only does such misinformation mar the mission of comfort care, but it discourages terminally ill patients from using a beneficial service.

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Myth: The cost of hospice

Maybe you have heard that if you sign up for palliative care services, it will cost a fortune. If the government pays for it, then they will confiscate your home and property when you pass. Did you know that comfort care services are guaranteed and paid benefits when you have a medicare supplement?

Myth: You don’t need a cancer diagnosis to qualify

Well, don’t you have to be a cancer patient to be eligible for comfort care? Although many people with terminal cancer choose a palliative route, they are not the only ones on these services. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) is a government agency that outlines a plethora of terminal conditions that make patients eligible for comfort care services.

Myth: You must be in your final days

If you decide to accept palliative care, don’t you have to be on your death bed? So many terminally ill patients suffer needlessly for months because of this tragic misunderstanding. Yes, many accept comfort care services days before dying, but they could have been qualified by their physician up to six months earlier.

Now that you have debunked the harmful myths of palliative care, you know that it is not mercy killing, and you will not lose your home. You do not need to be a cancer patient nor be actively dying to be eligible for the services. You’ve discovered what comfort care isn’t, now see what it is.

The Truth About Hospice Care

Since its conception, our government has worked to define palliative care services and who are eligible. Although each state’s regulations may be slightly different, federal guidelines are the same across the nation. Knowing your rights will help you decide on services when the time comes.

The first step to being eligible for comfort care is to be certified by a licensed physician. Your doctor must verify that you have a terminal condition with a prognosis of six months or less. Some people live past the six- month mark and maybe re-certified.

Did you know that there are no age limits for palliative care? Contrary to myth, comfort care is not just for seniors. Terminally ill juveniles are admitted to services with different rules for consideration.

To be eligible for palliative care, you agree with your doctor that further treatment would be futile. This does not mean that you can’t continue treatment that is reducing pain or improving the quality of your remaining life. If you decide to continue treatment for the disorder, you will no longer be qualified for comfort services.

What to Expect from Palliative Services?

Comfort care does not seek to shorten life, nor does it seek to lengthen the process). Rather, the focus of hospice is to place the quality of life over quantity. It aims to ensure patients” comfort, dignity, and the right to make choices for themselves.

Most palliative services offer care options that are tailored to the needs and desires of patients and their families. If you dread the thoughts of passing in a sterile hospital or nursing home, hospices are well-known for end-of-life care in the comforts of home. Maybe you don’t want your family to see you pass at home, so you can have palliative care in a facility or wherever you choose.

Some palliative care organizations run hospice homes that are staffed around the clock. These facilities have a warm, relaxing atmosphere like home. Your family can be with you the whole time with the support of compassionate caregivers.

Who Serves Hospice Patients?

When you register for comfort care services, you will have more than a nurse taking your vitals once a week. Comfort care services utilize a multi-disciplinary team made up of medical professionals, social workers, spiritual care advisors, and trained, caring volunteers. At all times, you and your family make the decisions for your care.

The medical director will work with nurses, STNAs, and therapists to monitor your condition and make any changes for pain management. Your team social worker can help you and your family with issues that arise in family dynamics and final planning. If you need spiritual support and counseling, team chaplains and counselors will be there for you and your family.

One of the most significant complaints of hospice patients is the lack of social interaction. Palliative service organizations have trained volunteers from the community who visit patients regularly, as the patient wants. These compassionate people are often with their patients throughout the end-of-life journey.

Palliative Care Is Not Always the End

Just because you are eligible for palliative care does not mean you have no hope. Although a doctor may certify that your life expectancy is six months or less, many people outlive their prognoses. Some people have a turn-around in their health and are no longer eligible for services.

At any time, you and your family have a right to cancel comfort care and resume curative treatments. If you choose, you can later be readmitted. You have the right and dignity to choose as you please with these services.

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Final Thoughts: Make Your Wish for Hospice Care When the Time is Right Known to Your Family

The end of life is an inevitable path we must all make. However, you do not have to make the journey alone. When you opt for palliative care, you join hands with caring professionals who meet the needs of your triune being of body, mind, and spirit.

After your physician determines you are eligible for palliative care, you and your family may search for a local hospice service that best suits your needs. Feel free to research different companies and read online comments and recommendations. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about their services, policies, and qualifications.

Any reputable palliative organization will welcome your inquiries and will be open to prospective interviews. You must choose an organization that is warm, professional, and will meet your needs during this critical time. Additionally, you and your family need professionals who keep regular communication and work together to keep you comfortable.

Comfort care is a viable option for people who want to follow the natural progression of dying. You may be one of the millions of people who refuse to be connected to machines with no hope of waking. All you want is to pass in comfort, surrounded by your friends and loved ones.

For more information about palliative care and regulations in your state, talk to your doctor and do some online research. Choosing palliative care services for end-of-life care is your right. Furthermore, once you discover how palliative care can benefit you or a loved one, the journey of passing maybe a little easier.

Psychology Explains How Positive Reinforcement Shapes Child Behavior

March 9, 2020 by Power of Positivity

It would be a perfect world if there were a parenting manual with all of the correct ways to raise a child. With so many ways to discipline undesirable child behavior , a parent often gets lost in deciding what works best for their baby. We’ve got a look into the perspective of positing reinforcement and how it shapes your child as they grow.

What Is Positive Reinforcement?

Positive reinforcement is all about focusing on the proper decisions and behaviors of your child. This way of support communicates to your child the values, practices, and actions that you find essential. Through this type of behavior modification, the idea is that your child feels empowered with the positivity and continues the “good” behavior. Positive reinforcement has a positive effect on the entire family, creating a better environment in the home. Good and bad decisions are thrown out the window only to be left with praise for the positive.

Teaching Good Behaviors

Punishment often sends a child into a downward spiral. Positive reinforcement is about teaching behavior instead of punishment for the child. This type of discipline encourages excellent decision-making skills instead of praising or punishing them afterward. They focus on identifying the action that is wrong and works to correct it instead of trying to change the child. This is more of teaching behavior and mutual respect rather than a set punishment to the child.

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The Difference Between Positive Reinforcement And Punishment

There is a difference between reinforcement and punishment. In psychology, operant conditioning brings up the fact that positive and negative do not necessarily mean good and bad. Positive means you are bringing or adding something to the equation. Negative means you are taking away something from life. Reinforcement means the behavior is increased. Punishment means the action is decreased. Positive and negative reinforcers directly affect the behavioral response of a person. Most punishing tactics reduce this behavioral response.

Change The Behavior, Not The Child

Positive discipline complements the behavior instead of the person. The idea is that this positive movement motivates the child. They focus on skills to overcome their other actions. There are inherent qualities in personalities that are difficult to change, but positive discipline helps the child learn to control these behaviors. This type of leadership and guidance helps the emotional relationship between the child and the parent as well. Compassion is encouraged, so the child doesn’t feel negative emotions.

Praise Your Child

One way to discipline in this way is to praise your child. When you give them praise, you promote their empathy, self-esteem, and positive thinking. This does not mean giving them endless praise. The parent does need to guide them to the correct path when they are showing wrong behaviors. They must boost confidence and praise things that deserve this praise instead of just praising everything. The child will still make mistakes. The parent can point these out in a loving, teaching way.

Positivity Leaves The Labels at the Door

Behavior modification becomes almost impossible when a child is labeled as “bad.” When they don’t have any positive discipline, they often get stuck feeling like they can’t do anything right. Psychologists say it’s best to refrain from labeling children. Instead of punishing them by telling them all of the things they’re doing wrong and calling them short-tempered, angry or aggressive, encourage good behaviors. Modify these behaviors by giving them a positive outlook. Encourage the practices that bring positivity instead of punishment. Labeling children gives them the right to accept this is who they are, and many find they cannot change.

The Effects of Negative Discipline

Negative discipline is a real thing. Many parents go overboard with negative punishment, which can impact the child psychologically as well as physically at times. If a child feels everything they do is wrong, they will begin to feel they are wrong as a while. Negative discipline just stops the child in their tracks. Even if a parent is nagging a child to do something over and over, they feel beaten down. Instead, the parent should try to reinforce the behavior giving them praise for doing what they need to do. It’s better to praise the steps that lead them to do the chore instead of nagging them and scaring them into doing the task.

Verbal Positive Discipline In Tasks

When a child does something “good” on their own, it’s up to the parent to praise them verbally. Yes, it is something they “should” do as children, but often the child gets lost innocently doing other things. They may not “mean” to not get to their homework, but they get lost playing video games and forget the time. The parent should praise the times when they do get down to business. When the parent focuses on the actual process of doing the chore, the child is guided back on track to do it. Instead of the parent just telling them they’re smart, they should focus on the positivity in the task itself instead of the behavior.

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Celebrating Efforts

Positive reinforcement is not only about punishment but about celebrating efforts. It’s about celebrating the great things the child does at all times. Encouragement pushes children to do their best. They’re often more willing to take chances. It’s crucial as parents to teach the children that things in life are usually scary, but it’s about overcoming these obstacles. The child will fail at times, but it’s crucial to build confidence in their minds.

Time To Be Specific

Encouraging behaviors through praise instead of a process often change negative behaviors. It’s essential to be specific in reinforcement to the child. Plus, it is vital to do it right when the situation happens. Finally, it is also important and powerful to give them reinforcement as soon as you catch them doing something positive.

It takes practice for a parent to notice your child’s positive behaviors at all times. This doesn’t mean throwing them rewards every time they throw something in the trash. It means immediate rewards in words at that time. You can also set up a reward system, so they earn stickers or tokens each time they do a positive behavior. This makes them work harder at doing positive responses.

Scheduling Reinforcement

Though parents shouldn’t praise their children too much to the point they take it for granted, it’s important to schedule this type of reinforcement. As the child is learning a new behavior, the parent should offer positive guidance consistently. It’s the same as if you were going to work and only getting paid on random occasions. The child needs to know there is “payment” as in praise. If not, they begin to feel their actions do not affect, whether positive or negative. The behaviors can only be changed or learned if they are reinforced.

How To Avoid Accidents

Many times a parent will accidentally reinforce negative actions. They might not mean to, but they will give attention to these actions. If they ignore negative behaviors, the child is more prone to have a response. If the parent just yells at the child for all of their adverse reaction, the child learns nothing. When a parent gives in to the child, they’re saying that behavior is allowed in their home. When a parent gives in to a child whining for sugar, the child’s whining is positively reinforced. The child only learned they could complain until they get what they want like a baby. It is better when the child shows a negative behavior for the parent to stick to their standards without reinforcing the behavior.

Parenting Win

Positive reinforcement isn’t all about the children. Parents can win, too. The practices of positive reinforcement as popular because they’re easy to implement once you get it down, and they’re a straightforward aspect to discipline. This behavior usually becomes habitual quickly. The parents can see faster results. This makes most parents feel confident in their abilities as parents. Many times parents think they are failing when their child makes an adverse decision. This type of discipline leaves them with happy children making parenting more enjoyable. Of course, the child may get angry about other issues, but they’ll be able to put more confidence in their parents, creating a better environment. The target behavior is rewarded without any confusion to the child. The parent is rewarded because the children seem to understand this type of discipline on another level.

Final Thoughts: Positive Reinforcement Is a Parent’s Best Friend

Former Dean of Freshman at Stanford University Julia Lythcott-Haims says that all of these disciplinary measures come down to the fact that happiness in life comes from love. This means that human beings that surround children bring them the love that brings them joy. It does not come from work or school. Positive reinforcement is about a healthy balance of respect and discipline that best pushes our children in a positive direction as they grow older.

10 Red Flags Someone is Struggling with Delusions

March 9, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Delusions are a firmly held belief in something untrue. The thought remains even when a trusted friend or loved one provides incontrovertible evidence to the contrary.

For instance, if someone utterly believes that a troupe of trolls lives in their mattress and steals food at night, they have a delusion. Perhaps you rip open their bed to show them that there are no trolls. They still will not believe you.

The term delusional disorder has ruled the hallmarks of insanity for centuries. Delusion may come with many different mental and neurological disorders and present differently from person to person. They are challenging to treat.

Someone suffering from delusional disorder usually can function reasonably well in day-to-day life. If you know someone struggling with them, it can be very frustrating and concerning. These ten signs to watch out for can help you determine if someone you know is dealing with delusions so you can try to get them the aid they need.

10 Signs Someone Has Delusions

1. Hallucinations

A delusional disorder itself is not usually accompanied by hallucinations, although it can be. According to Harvard Medical School, hallucinations typically occur concerning the delusion. For instance, a delusional conviction that someone is attempting to poison you may cause sensory hallucinations as well. You may hallucinate that you smell or taste something in your food and water.

Deluded ideas do not only occur when an individual has a delusional disorder. Most often, if a person is dealing with delusion and hallucinations. Indeed, it is a symptom of another mental disease most often. Conditions such as schizophrenia may cause a person to experience both.

Someone who is experiencing a hallucination has a sensory event happen that no one else around them can detect. A visual illusion involves them seeing something no one else can, or an auditory one impacts their hearing. To the afflicted individual, the event is genuine, even though no one else senses it happening.

2. Irritability or anger

For the person dealing with delusions, the idea is real and a part of their life. Often other people not understanding their delusional belief will irritate them. Since it is a reality in their mind, it should be one to you, too.

Other times, the delusional person becomes angry and irritated because of the effects of their delusion. One type of illusion, persecutory delusion, causes the afflicted person to believe others are out to get them. They may adopt a “me against the world” mentality to combat the persecution they think they are experiencing.

This study that was published in the Schizophrenia Bulletin found that the type of delusion is a determiner of anger and violence. A person who believes that they are followed, spied upon, or experimented upon is much more likely to be angry or violent. In their mind, it is merely self-defense because they are genuinely convinced others are doing them harm.

3. Depression

Many people with delusions are well aware that other people don’t believe or understand them. Knowing that no one relates to them and their experiences can be very difficult for them and cause depression. Even though they realize that no one is experiencing the same thing, it is not enough to break their off perception of reality.

Depression takes on several forms; if you notice any of these symptoms of depression, don’t ignore them. Depression can lead to an increased chance of self-injury. A person suffering from delusion and depression is at an even higher risk of self-harm.

If you notice depressive symptoms in a loved one dealing with delusions, empathy can be a powerful tool. Treating them with gentleness and understanding can help prevent the worsening of associated symptoms like depression. You have to remember that they cannot recognize the falsity of their ideas.

4. Withdrawal from family and friends

Hand in hand with depression comes the need to retreat. As the person dealing with delusions falls deeper into the path the delusion takes them, the more they get pulled away from those close to them. This is especially true when the delusion is causing paranoia, as in those who are convinced they are being watched or followed.

Just like helping a loved one deal with depression, love and compassion are critical if the delusional person is pulling away. Their need for a support system is vital. To help prevent their withdrawal, try to be accessible and understanding when they talk to you.

Remember, being understanding is not the same as validating their delusion. You do not have to pretend they are right to help them feel cared for. Just allowing them to vent their feelings can be enough to let them know you’re on their side.

5. Narcissistic behavior

Delusions of grandeur are one of the most widespread delusion categories. You might witness their genuine belief in amazing, super abilities, or specialness. Narcissistic tendencies can unfold from these ideas.

A narcissistic person thinks they deserve special treatment and that they are always the victim in an unpleasant situation. For example, if a narcissist picks a fight with you and you choose to defend yourself, they will only tell others about how you attacked them. Their whole perception of life is skewed and centered around themselves.

6. Nervousness and anxiety

Persecutory delusions can cause genuine fear and anxiety in the afflicted person. Because they believe others are out to get them, they feel an intense need to defend themselves or to hide. The more intense the injury they perceive, the more their anxiety is amplified.

If you notice someone you love who begin to hide, close their curtains during the day, or look over their shoulder when they’re out, they may have a persecutory delusion. Please note, this is not a delusion if someone genuinely is stalking them, and they are afraid. In the case of the deluded soul, it is a fragment of their imagination that someone is watching or following them.

Recognizing the symptoms of anxiety can help you understand your loved one, who is stressed by their imagined troubles. Moreover, the snowball effect of their mental disorder and anxiety can make things even worse.

7. Schizophrenia diagnosis

Schizophrenia and delusional thinking go hand in hand. More importantly, schizophrenia and other similar mental disorders prevent the person from perceiving reality as it truly is. It is easy to see how this leads to a spike in delusions.

Deluded ideas are a hallmark symptom of schizophrenia. Knowing a person has a diagnosis of schizophrenia or another mental disorder means you should be on the lookout for any of these other red flags. The chances are excellent that they will suffer from one or more delusions.

8. Unusual behavior

Living in a world that is different than reality, the deluded person may carry on discussions that are outlandish to you. This is the impact of their unique delusion. It makes sense only to them, as it relates to their idea.

Also, easily noticed with delusions are odd behavioral patterns. For instance, a person who is convinced that they are the victim of spying may begin a paranoid examination of their house every night looking for proof. In their mind, it is entirely rational to toss their home looking for microphones and cameras.

9. Larger than life stories

Delusions that are grandiose or persecutory are especially likely to cause this symptom. The afflicted person may tell you entirely implausible stories, such as Kate Middleton is stalking them. The more utterly convinced of this bizarre idea they are, the surer you can bet that they have a delusion.

Remember, this is not the same as lying. People lie with the intention to deceive the listener. The delusional person is quite sure of the truth of what they are telling you, even though you know it is false. In other words, the person with delusions believes that they are relaying a true fact.

10. The person remains convinced after you show them the truth

The final indicator of someone suffering from delusions is their absolute commitment to the story. If you can’t shake them from their belief, no matter what they’re told or shown, they have a genuine delusion. Moreover, no intervention or discussion on your part is ever going to change their mind.

It is important to note that religious beliefs that others in a community or culture share are not delusions, even if they are not right, per se. You should not consider someone as delusional if they have a different religion or social outlook than you do. These convictions run very strong and are a normal aspect of human nature.

Final Thoughts: What can you do to help a person struggling with delusions?

Does someone you know exhibit these red flags, and you feel the need to aid them? Then proceed cautiously. Be careful about how you approach it. The delusional person is not entirely rational. Thus, they will likely feel misunderstood or attacked.

The best thing you can do for your loved one is to be compassionate. Further, encourage them to seek support from a trained medical professional. Finally, let them know you’ll be there every step of the way.

12 Reasons Why Positive Singles Attract a Partner With Less Effort

March 9, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Do you ever wonder why some of your friends attract a partner effortlessly while you and others struggle to capture the interest of your crush? It seems as though some people hold all the lucky cards when it comes to dating and relating. And that leaves others sitting by on the sidelines. The secret to why positive singles attract partners quickly has little to do with chance and a lot to do with science.

12 Reasons Why Positive Singles Win in the Dating Game

The reason that positive people find it so easy to attract partners is that they have personality traits that are known to draw people closer to them. These traits have been shown to make people not only more successful in love but in their careers and personal life as well.

1 – Being a Good Listener

Positive people are generally good listeners. They tend to practice active listening, in which they tune out distractions and tune in to what the other person is saying. And, they mirror the person’s words and listen to understand. Thus, they may remember small details in the conversation and bring them up later, showing the other person that they care deeply. They often listen with intent and are totally present in the moment. They don’t allow their mind to wander or check their phones while the other person is talking. Because of this trait, people are naturally attracted to them.

Mirroring is a sign of attraction.

2 – Understanding Body Language

Positive singles are great at deciphering body language. They can tell if a person is stressed or happy, tense, or excited. Because of this, they can often mirror their partner’s moods, making them more likable. They listen with both their ears and their eyes, and this draws people to them. On dates, they lean in when their partners lean in. They are open to affection if they sense that their dates are as well. People are often wildly attracted to people who are likable, and this high level of empathy only boosts people’s attraction to them.

3 – Kindness and Compassion

People love people who are kind and compassionate. If you are always doing good for others, displaying high levels of empathy, and doing good deeds, people will be instantly attracted to you. Positive people are often naturally kind, and this means that people want to spend more time around them. Helpful people are also perceived as better partners, so it is no wonder that the lady that volunteers at the nursing home is more likely to find a partner. According to a study published in 2019 in the British Journal of Psychology, both men and women consistently express attraction to those who exhibit the trait of kindness.

4 – Smiling

Smiling serves a dual purpose when it comes to attracting a mate. First, smiling gives you an endorphin boost that instantly puts you in a better mood. Second, studies have shown that people enjoy an endorphin boost when they look at smiling faces. If you want people to like you, it helps to flash those pearly whites. The University of Bern, Switzerland, conducted a study and found that people who are smiling are consistently rated as more attractive than those with neutral expressions.

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5 – Laughing

Laughing radiates happiness, and there are few things that are more attractive than a happy person. When it comes to attracting a mate, laughing can do wonders.

Laughing lowers your stress level and the stress level of those around you. When a person finds themselves laughing with you, they naturally want to spend more time with you. This leads to higher levels of attraction overall. Laughing with a potential partner lays the foundation for a deep connection, long-lasting friendship, and eventually, love. This is one of the main reasons that positive singles find it so easy to attract a mate. They laugh and smile and make the people around them feel great.

6 – Self-confidence

Confident people instantly draw people to them. When a person exudes confidence, it puts people around them at ease. People consistently rate confident people as more attractive, and singles love to feed off of their positive energy. People who are optimistic draw people to them, which makes it more likely that they will find a romantic partner. On the flip side, people who are self-conscious, loathing, and depressive often repel people from them.

Positive people often feel good about themselves and exude confidence wherever they go. This has a self-fulfilling effect on their lives. Because they are more confident, people tend to like them more and treat them better. Because they are treated better, they are happier and smile more. Therefore, because they smile and laugh more, people are more attracted to them. When it comes to attracting a mate, confidence is its own reward.

7 – Being on Time

While most people don’t think of this trait as being attractive to other singles, it is a small habit that goes a long way. Being on time sends the signal to others that you value them and their time. You don’t keep them waiting because you think they are worth showing up for. Being on time gives the signal that you honor your commitments and are responsible and mature. When you show up late consistently, you are telling people that your time is more important than theirs, and they are not relevant to you. Show up on time if you want to be able to attract partners with zero effort.

8 – Traditional Gender Roles

This one might raise a few eyebrows, but the research backs us up. As it turns out, men and women who act in “traditional” ways have an easier time attracting a mate than those that don’t. Feminine women who wear dresses and heels consistently rate as more attractive than those who don’t. Men who engage in typically “masculine” hobbies and behaviors often score high in the attraction category. Studies have also shown that women who wear the color red are often seen as highly attractive.

Fair or not, these stereotypes mean that those who dress traditionally are viewed as “positive singles” over those who do not.

9 – Being a Pet Owner

Walking a dog is a great way to meet other people. It’s not surprising, then, that singles who are out for a pleasant walk in the park with their dog are more likely to attract people with little to no effort. Spending time with a pet is a well-reputed natural mood booster. So people whose pets are often happier and in better moods than those without. Taking care of pets can also bring out a nurturing spirit, and this can also attract people to you with no effort.

10 – Flirting

Singles that flirt often attract partners more quickly than those that don’t put out these non-verbal cues. Men tend to flirt by making themselves look bigger. Sticking their chest out, talking loudly, and showing off the more muscular parts of their body are ways that men tend to express their interest in women. Women tend to flirt by flipping their hair, smiling, acting shy, and sitting in a way that shows their openness (arms unfolded, palms facing upward). Singles that flirt and show that they are open to affection from others often find it easier to attract partners than those that don’t tease.

11 – Positive Thinking

While it may seem obvious, many people do not understand the connection between positive thinking and attracting a mate. People who think positive often draw people toward them because they are refreshing to be around. If you have ever been around someone who is always negative, you will understand how attractive a positive thinker can be.

When people have a “glass half full” mentality, they naturally attract people to them. They often enjoy a more abundant life, filled with laughter, smiles, friends, and enjoyable experiences. They draw people to them like moths to a flame. This makes finding a mate an effortless proposition for them. They already believe they are going to see what they’re looking for, and they are more likely to find it.

12 – Authenticity and Vulnerability

Positive singles attract partners with zero effort because they allow themselves to be seen as vulnerable and even weak. They enable people to see them as a whole, authentic people who may be a little awkward and unsure of themselves at times. While this may seem to directly contradict the notion that people like confident people, it actually does not. People understand that even the most confident person has moments of weakness, and by allowing this part of themselves to shine through, positive singles make themselves look irresistible to potential partners.

Final Thoughts: Positive Singles Attract Partners With Less Effort

When it comes to being able to attract a partner with zero effort, some people simply understand attraction better than others. You, too can learn the art and science of attraction by studying which qualities shine through and make people instantly fall in love with you. From being vulnerable to flirting, being a good listener, to smiling, the science agrees that positive people are more likely to attract mates. Enhance your natural positive characteristics, enjoy a positive outlook, and you will find partners instantly drawn to you with little to no effort on your part.

Urologists Explain Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Blood in Urine

March 9, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Blood in the urine is more formally known as hematuria. There are two types: gross and microscopic. The patient can spot gross hematuria. But only a doctor can detect microscopic hematuria. In microscopic hematuria, the doctor detects a few red blood cells while performing a urine test. The urine, however, still looks relatively healthy. In gross hematuria, by contrast, there are enough blood cells in the urine to turn it pink, red, or even nearly black.

Treatment for hematuria will depend on the cause, and there are many different causes. Some reasons, like menstruation or intercourse, are benign. Others, like cancer, are far more serious. Consequently, anybody who sees blood in their urine should call their doctor.

Causes of Blood in the Urine

Here are some reasons why you might see some blood when you urinate.

1. Urinary Tract Infection

Perhaps urinary tract infections (UTI) are the most common cause of blood in urine, mainly microscopic hematuria. Urinary tract infections are most common in women; in fact, about 50 percent of women will have at least one UTI during her lifetime. In addition to blood in the urine, other symptoms of a urinary tract infection can include the following: a strong and persistent urge to urinate, cloudy and pungent urine, and daily production of small amounts of urine. Women may also experience pain in the pelvic region, particularly around the pubic bone.

There are three main types of UTI, and each one can have different symptoms in addition to the ones listed above. Acute pyelonephritis is a severe infection of the kidneys and can be life-threatening; it is most common in pregnant women.

Chronic pyelonephritis describes repeated kidney infections and is more likely in children or people with a history of repeated UTIs. People with either type may develop the following symptoms: Pus in the urine, a fever of at least 102° F (39° C), and urine that smells like fish.

A bladder infection is called cystitis, and it is both more common and less severe than a kidney infection. The patient will have flu-like symptoms and a fever of at least 100.4° F (38° C).

Urethritis is a bacterial infection of the urethra. Its main symptom is pain while urinating, but it can also cause pain during intercourse, trouble starting urination, discharge from the vagina or urethra opening, and an urgent need to urinate. Men may also find blood in their semen.

2. Kidney or Bladder Stones

Kidney and bladder stones can cause microscopic or gross hematuria by irritating or abrading the urinary tract. Both types of stones form from minerals in concentrated urine. They initially become crystals on walls of the bladder or kidney and gradually become hard and small stones. The stones don’t cause any symptoms until they are traveling down the urinary tract, where they can create a blockage.

Kidney stones can cause symptoms like severe pain in the back, side, or abdomen, pain while urinating, cloudy and foul-smelling urine, small amounts of urine being produced, a constant need to urinate, nausea, vomiting, fever, and chills.

Bladder stones can cause similar symptoms, but the pain is usually confined to the lower abdomen. They are most common in men over 50.

3. Vigorous Exercise

Vigorous exercise can also cause blood in the urine. Exercise-induced hematuria has a variety of names, such as “stress hematuria,” “runner’s bladder,” “post-exertional hematuria,” and “marathoner’s hematuria.” It is most common in long-distance runners. Dehydration is a known risk factor. Exercise-induced hematuria is generally benign, but if it lasts longer than two or three days, the athlete should call their doctor.

The science journal Renal Failure published a 2014 study in which researchers worked with male runners between 20 and 50 years old. Around 12 percent of them developed hematuria after running, and it was particularly common in the participants who were under 30. The researchers also found that the intensity of the exercise rather than its duration affected the risk of developing hematuria. Athletes who had to run a given distance within a set time were much more likely to develop hematuria than those who ran the same length with no time limit. The scientists also found that three of the participants had early kidney disease, as their urine remained bloody for two weeks after their runs.

4. Trauma

Any injury of the urinary tract can cause hematuria. Most such injuries involve the kidneys, and common causes of kidney injuries include automobile accidents, sports injuries, falls, bullet wounds, and stab wounds. Less common causes include various medical procedures like kidney stone treatments or kidney biopsies.

Injuries to the urinary tract system can also involve the bladder, urethra, or ureters. As with the kidneys, any trauma to the pelvic area can injure a part of the urinary tract. Untreated injuries of the urinary tract can lead to complications like incontinence, infection, high blood pressure, or kidney failure.

5. Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic kidney disease is a common genetic disorder in which multiple cysts grow on and in the kidneys. Around 500,000 people in the United States alone have the condition. There are two types of PKD. Autosomal dominant PKD (ADPKD) is usually diagnosed in adults and is believed to affect one out of every 400 to 1000 people globally. Autosomal recessive PKD (ARPKD) is congenital; doctors can detect it shortly after birth or even before. One out of every 20,000 children in the world has ARPKD.

PKD is a type of chronic kidney disease that can eventually cause kidney failure. It can also cause other complications like high blood pressure, abnormalities in the blood vessels of the heart and brain, and liver cysts. Such complications, along with pain and hematuria, are also symptoms of ADPKD. An infant with ARPKD will be smaller than average but have enlarged kidneys.

6. Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common condition in which uterine lining tissue grows outside the womb. It affects about 11 percent of women between 15 and 44 years old in the United States, and it is especially common in women in their 30s and 40s. Endometriosis is a common cause of female infertility.

According to a case study published by the journal Quantitative Imaging in Medicine and Surgery in 2015, only about one or two percent of endometriosis cases affect the urinary tract system. Over 4/5 of such cases involve the bladder, while most of the remainder affect the ureters. Symptoms of bladder endometriosis include blood in the urine, pain around the pubic area, and an urgent need to urinate.

7. Some Medications

Some medications increase the risk of bleeding and can thus cause hematuria. Examples include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), and warfarin (Coumadin). Blood thinners like heparin can cause gross hematuria. Penicillin and an anti-cancer drug called cyclophosphamide can cause urinary bleeding.

8. Enlarged Prostate

Many men developed an enlarged prostate as they enter middle age. The prostate is located right below the bladder and encircles the urethra. When the prostate becomes enlarged, it squeezes the urethra and thus partly blocks the flow of urine. In addition to blood in the urine, an enlarged prostate can also cause trouble urinating and a constant need to urinate. Prostatitis or infection of the prostate can cause the same symptoms.

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is the fourth most common cancer in men; according to the American Cancer Society, about 62,100 men are diagnosed with it every year, as compared to 19,300 women. It is most common in older people; 73 is the average age at diagnosis. Bladder cancer is more common in white people than in blacks or Hispanics.

There are several different types of bladder cancer, with urothelial carcinoma or transitional cell carcinoma being by far the most common. It originates within the cells that line the interior wall of the bladder. The urothelial cells line other parts of the urinary tract so that cancer can spread. The doctor will have to check the whole urinary tract for tumors.

Less common types of bladder cancer include squamous cell carcinoma, small cell carcinoma, adenocarcinoma, and sarcoma. Regardless of type, blood in the urine is usually the first sign. The patient may have either gross or microscopic hematuria. As with many conditions affecting the urinary tract, the patient may have trouble urinating, pain while urinating, or urinary incontinence. Other symptoms of bladder cancer can include recurrent urinary tract infections, pain in the pelvic area or back, loss of appetite, weight loss, swollen feet, and bone pain.

Learn what the color of your pee reveals about your health.

Final Thoughts of Seeing Blood in the Urine

Hematuria has many causes, and some of them are serious. Thus, if you find blood in your urine, you need to call a doctor – even if your urine looks normal the next time that you go to the bathroom. Bladder cancer is highly survivable if caught early. In fact, you will have at least a 70 percent chance of surviving the next five years if the doctor finds it before it spreads.

Other conditions may lead to complications like kidney failure if they aren’t treated. Your doctor can tell you, after ordering several tests, what you have and how serious it is.

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