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15 Benefits of Asana Yoga to Never Ignore

January 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Though Asana yoga is thousands of years old, it is only in the past couple hundred years that it spread to the western world. Today, yoga is well-known all over the globe. People use it as a form of exercise, a kind of meditation, and for many other reasons to promote health and wellness in their lives. Whether you are new to yoga or interested in elevating your practice, asana in yoga is an excellent way to improve your physical body as well as take advantage of other yoga benefits in your life.

Asana is a term that refers to the physical practice of the poses used in yoga. Yogis use it to refer to all physical aspects of yoga as well as an individual posture. It is one of the eight “limbs” of yoga practice. The other limbs are:

pranayama (breathing)
dhyana (meditation)
yamas (social conduct)
niyamas (self-observance)
pratyahara (sensory withdrawal)
dharana (concentration)
samadhi (bliss)

Asana yoga is one of the most beautiful ways to effect a positive change in your life. Paying attention to the way you move your body and the yoga benefits that come from your practice give you a foundation to build the remaining limbs of yoga in your life. This discipline can help you achieve your health and wellness goals.

Yoga benefits are well-known. Asana yoga focuses on the postures and poses of the body in yoga practice for it to be productive and healthy for the body. These are just fifteen of the many, many benefits of the asana of yoga.

15 Benefits of Asana Yoga

1. Improved flexibility

One of the primary yoga benefits is improved flexibility. Yoga practice is designed to move the body and improve flexibility through gentle movements and held poses. The more you practice asana in yoga, the easier the poses will become. Like any exercise regimen, a regular yoga practice will condition your body to the poses and movements, making them easier for your physical body. This reason explains why yoga can be so effective for those with limited mobility.

2. Improved muscle strength

Asana yoga uses your body weight in your exercise to achieve tangible results. Regular yoga practice improves your muscle strength in the same way it improves your flexibility. The more you do yoga, the more your body is conditioned to the movements and poses in your practice. Also, once you begin to gain strength and the yoga poses begin to get easier, you can move to more advanced poses to continue challenging yourself.

3. Improves spine health and posture

Your spine is a vital part of your physical health, but it’s also a part that many people neglect or overlook frequently. From sitting improperly at desks to using the wrong pillow at night, we can cause our spine a lot of stress. A focus on asana in yoga places a strong emphasis on the posture of your yoga poses, which typically require good posture, creating a straight line from your head all the way through your body. As you focus on straightening your spine in your yoga practice, you’ll find yourself keeping the same posture throughout your day, as well.

4. Reduces depression and anxiety

Yoga has a meditative quality to it that helps fight anxiety. Unlike other exercise regimens, yoga uses slow movements and held poses, aligned with conscious breathing, to achieve the desired results. Yoga practice allows you to focus on your breath and your body’s movements. This benefit is why yoga is effective as a form of meditation. Furthermore, it proves time and time again to be effective in fighting symptoms of depression and anxiety.

5. Increases blood flow

There are lots of exercise programs that are used to get the blood flowing. In fact, almost any form of exercise is effective for increasing blood flow. The poses in yoga do the same, and they do it gently so as not to overtax your system. In addition, yoga helps get oxygen to your cells better, which also helps improve your blood flow and circulation health.

6. Improves emotional health

When you feel better physically, you typically feel better emotionally, as well. As a low-impact exercise, yoga allows you to breathe consciously, align your breath and movements, and to concentrate on the moment you are in. This mindfulness helps improve your emotional health, making you generally feel more at peace, happier, and less emotionally distressed.

7. Facilitates a healthier eating lifestyle

For many people, a regular yoga practice opens up additional changes in their lives. One thing that often changes is a healthier eating lifestyle. What you eat can have an impact on your yoga practice. Yoga teachers may recommend a yogic diet to improve your practice, which may include fewer red meats and more whole foods like fresh fruits and vegetables. When you start eating healthier, you’ll not only improve your health, but you’ll feel better and improve your yoga practice, as well.

8. Improves mental focus

Mindfulness is a way to focus your mind on the present and prioritize your thinking patterns to what is truly relevant and important in your life. As a result, you develop a mental clarity that can greatly improve your overall mental focus. Being able to focus like this can help you in your career as well as in your personal life.

9. Improves physical balance

Many yoga poses require some balance. Not all poses are as complex as headstands or balancing the body on one foot, but they do require you to be able to be balanced. As you build a regular yoga practice, your balance will improve, and you’ll find even more complex poses easier to manage. The balance you learn through yoga will help improve your balance throughout the day, as well.

10. Facilitates physical relaxation

Since yoga uses slow movements and held poses, it is more relaxing than other forms of exercise. While other exercise regimens get your heart going and push your muscles to extremes, yoga uses your body’s muscles more gently, which helps you relax your physical body instead of tensing up. This can help reduce the chance of getting muscle aches and knots from your exercise regimen.

11. Facilitates mental relaxation

Along with physical relaxation, yoga facilitates mental relaxation, as well. The focus on breathing and slow movements calms the mind and turns your thoughts to the present. For that moment, you are not worrying about the future or dwelling on the past. For the duration of your practice, you can let go of the mental stresses of your life.

Read to learn how yoga helped one person recover from a broken heart.

12. Allows increased oxygen intake

When you move from pose to pose in your yoga practice, you inhale or exhale based on the movement and the pose you are moving to. This technique aligns your breath with your movements. Your yoga instructor may also advise you to take a few slow breaths while holding a pose. Whether moving or holding a pose, the slow, deep breathing of yoga increases the oxygen brought into the body. This improvement in breathing can help your cells do their jobs better to keep your body healthy.

13. Eases physical pain

Both acute and chronic pain can be debilitating, keeping you from living your life the way you want. Fortunately, your yoga practice can ease your physical pain. The movements and poses move your muscles, which can reduce the tension that leads to knots or strains. The movement can also reduce inflammation, which can cause chronic pain, such as arthritis and fibromyalgia. Even if an injury causes your pain, yoga moves your body gently, which helps your body heal more effectively, which can reduce the pain of the injury.

14. Promotes self-care

In recent years, there has been a big push for self-care practices, which means engaging in practices that promote your mind, body, and spirit health. Integrating asana in your yoga practice is a way to engage in self-care. Yoga has physical, mental, and emotional benefits to your health. That means you take care of yourself when you practice yoga.

15. Facilitates positive change in your life

Most people come to yoga because they want to experience the numerous benefits it carries. Whether you are seeking benefit in body, mind, or spirit, a regular yoga practice can help you make positive changes in your life through increased physical health, improved mental health, and greater emotional awareness.

Learn about the warrior pose and other yoga postures.

Final Thought on Embracing Asana Yoga as Part of Your Daily Life

No matter the reason you have come to a practice, asana yoga benefits can be impactful in every area of your life. Implementing asanas in your yoga practice, which means an emphasis on the poses and movements, can maximize these yoga benefits to achieve your health and wellness goals. You don’t have to be an expert yogi to implement asanas into your practice. Instead, all it takes is a desire to make improvements in your life through the practice of yoga.

5 Effective Ways To Swap a Negative Mindset for a Positive One

January 26, 2020 by Lakeisha Ethans

The way you think dictates your life, your world, and how you handle different situations. It can dramatically affect your mental health, so having a negative mindset can damage your psyche.

But changing an ingrained mindset, no matter how bad it is, can be challenging. Here are 5 effective ways to change a negative mindset and replace it with a positive one to help you out.

1. Identify Triggers of Negative Thought Patterns

As with all things, you cannot change a negative mindset if you don’t confront it head-on and reflect upon its causes. Finding the worst of your negativity triggers is often the first big step in overcoming those thoughts and shifting towards more productive and positive thinking.

Identifying a trigger usually involves being aware of the events that are leading to the instigation of negativity. To help foster this awareness, when you notice a negative thought pattern, start practicing the act of understanding its roots. Here are some questions you can ask yourself to get started:

· What Was It That Happened?

Ask yourself what happened that led up to your negative explosion. Try and think about all the little details. Triggers can be surprisingly subtle and difficult to catch!

· Where Did This Happen?

Sometimes, the environment can be the cause for the triggering of something negative. Maybe it was too crowded, too loud, or somewhere you were uncomfortable. Maybe it reminded you of other negative events. Think about it!

· Who Was With Me When This Happened?

Sometimes, people can play a role in their reactions. Being around people who are experiencing negative thoughts can make you more prone to similar patterns, and agitated or aggressive people may further trigger these reactions in you.

· When Did This Begin To Happen?

Can you pinpoint the exact moment your emotions became more heightened? Can you see a trend of negative thoughts forming during certain periods of the day or even week?

· What Happened Right After That?

Think about what happened next. Did that further your negative thoughts or help them? What do the results of the events and your thoughts mean for the reality of the situation?

2. Pay Attention To Your Negativity and Patterns

You already know that you must confront negative patterns, but you can’t really do that if you’re not paying enough attention to them. Self-awareness is the key to understanding a negative mindset and learning to change it to a positive one. Here are some tips for paying attention to yourself in productive ways:

· Pay Attention To Reactions of Emotional Intensity

Emotional reactions to events are not inherently wrong or unhealthy. However, noticing them, understanding them, and being aware of their intensity is crucial to understanding a negative mindset and swapping it to the positive. For example, when someone rejects you, you ask out, do you feel a little hurt and need a few hours to recover? Or do you spend a week moping about at home? As another example, when someone cuts in your lane on the road, do you briefly shake your head at their dangerous actions, or do you start shouting expletives? Take note of how intense your emotional reactions are, and you’ll be able to find reactions that indicate a more serious negative root issue getting in the way of your positive thinking.

· Pay Attention To Automatic Thoughts

Automatic thoughts are mostly uncontrollable, and they occur naturally, as an immediate response to personal interpretations of input and circumstances. These thoughts are usually shaped by ingrained beliefs, past experiences, and worries. For example, when you receive a message marked “urgent” from an employer, you might immediately begin to fear that you’re in trouble, even though you haven’t opened the message yet! Or when someone is dressed nicely, you might instantly think about how bad you look in comparison, even though that’s an unproductive thought. Learning to catch and notice these automatic thoughts helps you dig at their roots, so you can change them as you go.

· Keep A Thought Journal

If you have trouble with being aware of your thoughts and patterns, try logging them in a journal. You can opt to write down notable thoughts when they occur or record them all at the end of the day by brainstorming your day’s events. This is a commonly used trick in many therapy and treatment plans for mental health issues related to negativity and anxiety. If you record your negative thoughts, you’ll see your negative mindset and will be able to take steps to move towards a more positive one.

3. Add Positive Habits To Your Routine

Changing a negative mindset often means making bigger adjustments to your overall life. Often, the habits you form could be responsible for enabling or furthering the worst of your negativity. Here are some positive habits that you can try incorporating into your regular life to shift your thinking and encourage a healthier mind slowly:

· Create A Good Morning Routine

If you get a bad start to the day, you’re not going to feel good about yourself. That’s why the incorporation of a healthy morning routine can be crucial to developing a more positive way of thinking. It’s up to you how you make your morning routine better. Still, simple factors like ensuring a healthy breakfast, getting some time for exercise, or using positive affirmations can help make you feel better from the get-go before you even leave your house.

· Stop To Breathe

In this bustling, fast-paced world, you could use a little time to slow down and rest your mind, letting your worries slip away. Use reminders, alarms, and even scheduled blocks of time to remember to stop what you’re doing and take a breather. It doesn’t have to be for a long time – just five minutes will work wonders for your positive thinking and stress levels. As time goes on, try incorporating the breathing break whenever you feel your negative mindset rearing its ugly head.

· Try Mindfulness

Mindfulness refers to the act of living in the present. It means letting go of worries about the future and thoughts about the past and simply existing as you are. A lot of people attribute it to meditation, which you can certainly add to your routine. But mindfulness is about more than that. It means being aware of and appreciating your world. It means taking note of everyday things you usually take for granted, and it means learning to let bad things slide off your back so you can take things one step and a time when needed. It’s a great way to shift to a more positive mindset!

4. Hit Pause – Not Stop!

Sometimes, the quickest way to change negativity to positivity is by directly stopping that bad thought pattern in its tracks. The important part is learning to pause the pattern to change it, not stop and block the pattern permanently to the point where it is never followed through on. Here are some elaborations on this:

· Pause To Restructure

If you don’t hit pause when you first experience a negative thought or reaction, you won’t be able to catch it and take note of your initial impulse. If you feel that negativity bursting forth, stop and think first. This is especially true if you tend to give in to vices and unhealthy coping mechanisms when sad or if you lash out at those around you when angry. These strong emotional reactions can be prevented if you learn to pause before they take over you.

· Choose To Change

When you pause, you’re giving yourself a few seconds to make a choice. Do you want to handle your emotions explosively, or do you want to be proactive and wise? Do you want to allow your negative mindset to rule you, or do you want to teach yourself more positive ways of handling what you feel? This choice is up to you!

· Remember, Don’t Stop, Just Pause

There’s a difference between pausing to understand your emotions and stopping them altogether. Trying to stop a negative thought process, emotion, or reaction by simply repressing it will lower positive thinking in the long run. At no point has negative repression ever been beneficial to one’s mindset! If you want to swap bad thoughts for good thoughts, you have to allow yourself to confront your thoughts, not avoid or ignore them.

5. Create New Thoughts

The most crucial part about changing your mindset from negative to positive is the act of learning to create new thoughts. Your replacement process won’t work if you don’t have good thoughts to slide into the spots left behind. These can be simply positive thoughts that contradict the initial bad ones, or they can be careful corrections of your original thinking. Here are some examples of replacement thoughts:

· Example 1

Initial negative thought: I’m going to be in so much trouble if I mess up this project!

Positive replacement thought: I’m equipped with great skills for this project and can do a great job on it!

Alternative positive replacement thought: This project is quite a challenge; what a great opportunity to learn!

· Example 2

Initial negative thought: Wow, what a jerk, he almost drove right into me and killed me!

Positive replacement thought: That was quite scary, but I know I’m a good driver, and I could have handled things going south.

Alternative positive replacement thought: I’m thanking my lucky stars that the driver missed me just in time!

· Example 3

Initial negative thought: It’s going to be so tough when we move to a new city.

Positive replacement thought: It may be a challenge to adapt to a new city, but I know we’ll be able to address any issues as we go.

Alternative positive replacement thought: Moving to a new city opens up so many opportunities for us!

· Example 4

Initial negative thought: I can’t believe that person was so mean to me, what a terrible person.

Positive replacement thought: That person seems like they’re having a rough day. I hope they cheer up soon!

Alternative positive replacement thought: I don’t need to expend energy being angry about someone’s unfairness; I know I handled myself well!

Final Thoughts On Some Effective Ways To Achieve A Positive Mindset

A negative mindset can make the difference between success and failure. Your brain is such a powerful thing, and dedicating it to something positive allows you to manifest the very best out of life!

Therapists Reveal Signs That Someone Is A Victim Of Domestic Violence

January 26, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Domestic violence affects nearly 3 million people each year. Women and men both fall victim to this horrendous act every single day. Often, they do no tell anyone what they are going through.

Knowing the warning signs can change their life for the better. These signs may be the only way you will ever know that something is wrong. Never ignore it if you suspect that there is abuse, even when the person tries to hide it.

While you shouldn’t ignore the signs, you also shouldn’t push too hard if the victim isn’t willing to talk. It can only cause them to isolate themselves further from those who love and care about them. Asking about it gently is always worth it, however, so knowing how to tell if someone is a victim of domestic violence is essential.

The Primary Warning Signs of Domestic Violence

According to the counselors at the National Domestic Violence Hotline, here are some of the key things you’ll see.

Physical Signs

Blackened eye(s)
Split or swollen lip
Marks on their neck (ordinarily red or purple)
Sprains in their wrist
Bruises, frequently on their arms
Unexplained injuries that occur often
Broken bones with explanations that don’t add up

Emotional Signs

Low self-esteem, especially if they didn’t have low self-esteem before
Apologies too often, especially about insignificant things
Timid behavior
Fearful most of the time
Changes in eating or sleeping patterns
Unexplained anxiety or always on edge
Drug use
Depression
No longer participating in activities they once enjoyed
No longer enjoying hobbies
Suicidal comments

Behavioral Signs

Unusually withdrawn or distant
Backing out of plans or appointments at the last minute
Missing important meetings
Showing up late often
Being overly concerned about the privacy of their personal life
Isolating themselves from those they were close to

Why The Domestic Violence Victim Might Stay With Their Abuser

For someone who has never been the victim of domestic violence, it may be difficult to understand why a victim stays. Some of the reasons include:

Fear of physical retaliation if they try to leave
They still feel love for their abuser
They believe or hope their abuser will change
Their abuser promises to change and shows remorse
For married couples, some victims don’t believe in divorce
When a couple has children, the victim may be staying only so the children’s lives aren’t uprooted
They believe the violence is their fault
Low self-confidence
Fear of being lonely since they may have isolated themselves from their loved ones
The pressure to stay from those who don’t know about the violence
Not enough money to live on their own
No place to go or a vehicle of their own

How You Can Help a Domestic Violence Victim

1. Make time in your schedule for them

Even if they have canceled plans at the last minute before, make sure you have time to spend with them. Sometimes it’s hard for victims also to ask to spend time together, and it can be even harder for them to leave their homes.

Always make yourself available to them so that they know you aren’t going to turn your back on them. This situation may lead to opening up to you and asking for assistance. Just remember to always protect yourself, too, by setting up plans when things seem to be calm for the victim so that you don’t find yourself in the middle of a domestic dispute.

2. Begin the conversation about your worries.

If you wait for the victim to open up on their own, you may get nowhere. Instead, calmly and gently tell them that you are worried about them. Explain why you are afraid and point out the changes that you have noticed.

Assure the victim that you’ll be discreet about anything that you discuss, and don’t pressure them to continue talking if they seem uncomfortable. Only keep asking questions if the victim is readily willing to give answers because making them uncomfortable could cause them to avoid making plans with you next time.

3. Listen but don’t judge

Remember, you may not understand why a victim stays in a violent situation. It isn’t for you to decide. Your only mission is to help the victim when they are ready.

This impartiality means that as you listen to them, don’t be judgmental. You should even try to avoid giving unsolicited advice or solutions. Simply let the victim talk until they don’t want to talk anymore.

Now, don’t think you can’t ask questions to clarify things they describe. Those types of questions are generally okay. Just remember that it is most important to be there to listen.

4. Tell the victim that you believe them

Often, in a domestic situation, the abuser can hide their true colors from those outside of the home. This behavior makes it hard for a victim to come forward with the truth because they may be afraid they won’t be believed. To make it easier for the victim to keep going to you for help, make sure they know that you understand them.

Just knowing they have someone who believes what they are saying will give them hope for the future and a small dose of relief in the present. Say things to them like “I believe you,” “none of this is your fault,” and “you don’t deserve do go through this.”

5. Validate their feelings, even if they are contradictory

In this type of situation, the victim may understand how terrible their abuser is and still feel love toward them. They also may feel guilty themselves while also being angry. Another common emotional contradiction is for the victim to have hope but also feel despair.

Don’t question their feelings. Instead, validate them. Tell the victim that it is reasonable to feel the way that they are feeling.

Most importantly, tell them that what is happening to them is not okay. Make it clear that living with constant fear, guilt, despair, or any other feelings that are brought on by the situation is not normal.

Sometimes, victims may not even realize that their situation is abnormal. If the victim experienced this type of violence as a child or witnessed many couples harm each other, chances are they believe it’s normal.

Again, do not be judgmental as you validate their feelings, but do tell them that they are in a dangerous situation that could escalate at any time and that you are worried about them.

6. Offer your help and support

Be specific when offering by telling the victim precisely what you can and will do for them. Help them look up phone numbers and other resources that can help them. They may need to contact social services, an attorney, a therapist, or even the police.

Try to go in prepared with brochures, or pamphlets about their situation, but don’t pull them out unless they vocalize that they do want help. Pulling out your information too soon could spook the victim and make them not want to talk.

If the victim asks for help with something specific and you are able (and willing) to do it, definitely step up and get it done. If not, offer them information to a resource that can help them with their specific request.

The most important thing is always to be available for them to reach out to or for moral support during the process.

7. Help come up with a safety plan

Even if the victim isn’t quite ready to leave their situation yet, they will need a safety plan for when violence occurs again, if it escalates or if they decide they need to leave home. Creating a safety plan will make it easier for them to escape because they will already have it in mind, and they will be more psychologically prepared to do it.

In the safety plan, you should include a safe place to go, an excuse to leave, a code word that only family and close friends know that signifies that help is needed, a list of emergency contacts, and an escape bag. The escape bag should include:

cash
birth certificates
social security cards
any other important documents
keys
basic toiletries
a change of clothes

Read to learn how to offer support to someone who left an abusive relationship.

Final Thoughts On Helping A Domestic Violence Victim

Victims of domestic violence don’t always want help. Even if all of the warning signs are there, don’t push if they don’t want to talk. It is essential to be available to speak with them, however, just in case they are ready to accept some help from you.

Have your resources ready so that you have them prepared the moment they ask for help. Assure the victim that they are not alone in the situation. For further assistance, the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1?800?799?7233 can offer immediate assistance.

Remember always to protect yourself first. If you feel like your own life may be in danger, back off and call the police immediately. You can’t rescue everyone, and your safety is imperative, too.

How to Find Beauty in Everything (Even If It Doesn’t Look Beautiful)

January 25, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Life is beautiful. But although it is, many people get so focused on their personal problems that somehow they forget to enjoy the beauty and positivity around them. Sometimes, we need to do what the adage tells us. Take the time to stop what we are doing smell the intoxicating fragrance of the roses surrounding us.

Here is why.

We can draw a parallel between seeing the beauty in everything around us and a mindset of positivity. For while we may observe the darker side of humanity, and remain cautiously aware of it, we can choose the path to light, instead. Indeed, research proves time and time again that a positive mindset is at the core of well-balanced mental health.

So let’s look together at five ways we can find beauty–and therefore, positivity–in the world at large.

5 Ways to See the Beauty in Everything

1 – Learn from children

All the great persons try to learn something new from everybody. But the ones that may teach us more about life are the ones who know less about it. That is the true beauty of children.

Children know how to play and enjoy the game. They will get upset in one second only to forget the next one. The most sincere friendships are made during childhood when there are no judgments and social differences. It may sound a cliché, but it’s true.

Furthermore, children have a dogged determination as they set out to master their worlds. Research suggests that this stems from their unspoiled intrinsic motivation, a natural lean towards learning new concepts. Sadly, some people lose that internal drive as adults, causing us to feel stuck or unmotivated in life.

Here’s one final note about learning from kids.

All adults have an inner child, being more or less aware of it. Some will release that child in the company of other children, while others won’t be able to control it during difficult times. But one should stop a moment and watch the world through a child’s eyes. It’s the only way to see all the wonders that are around us.

2 – Wake up with a purpose

Mornings may be stressful, especially when all kinds of worries replace the promise of a new day. Those who want to change their life should start the new day in an exciting manner. Writing a list with desired activities is an excellent habit to adopt. If the job is super stressful, try to wake up earlier and make a personal routine.

Do you struggle to wake up enough to try to find beauty in the early hours of the dawn? Then, try adjusting your nighttime habits to make way for a smoother morning routine.

Once you awaken, find something to do that inspires you and nurtures your soul. That could be jogging for some or yoga for others. Or, it might be a prime time for you to read a chapter of a book you love, do some affirmations, or indulge in an extra-long shower before work.

These morning activities will offer you peace for the entire day and will help you think in a positive way.

3 – Appreciate the inherent beauty in nature

Every day is beautiful, but there are those days when people feel more inspired. Chalk it up to human nature. But, this fact arises from a state of mind. In fact, it really doesn’t matter if it’s a rainy or sunny day.

There’s a magical feeling when you head out of doors. The feeling of a cooling breeze on a hot summer evening or the beauty of blooming wildflowers blooming makes you feel connected back to Mother Earth. Furthermore, that connection to nature can help minimize feelings of anxiety and stress. In fact, a recent study shares that time spent in nature relieves both the physical and the mental ravages of stress in your life.

So whenever you feel stress encroaching on your life, head outdoors. Go out and take a long walk and enjoy the beauty of the landscape. One may even take a few pictures in order to capture the beauty of life, no matter if it’s a cherry blossom, a rainbow, or a winter landscape.

4 – Read as many books as possible

Reading is a beautiful way to gather new life perspectives. It is incredible how one may fall in love with a particular character. Every book teaches us something new and valuable, so don’t forget to read. It doesn’t matter if you choose a novel, a psychological book about self-development, or a motivational book.

Beyond learning about new ideas, books can transport us out of our minds in a quiet, focused activity. A 2018 Chinese study confirms that bibliotherapy (therapeutic intervention via reading books) is useful in alleviating the symptoms of both depression and anxiety in children.

5 – Keep a positivity journal

Sometimes we ignore good things because we focus too much on the bad ones. This should change.

But how?

Keep a positivity journal, aka gratitude journal, each day. This daily habit allows you to reflect on your day and take stock of all the cool things that happen to you. From the mere fact of waking up in the morning in reasonably good health to celebrations of milestones, something good happened to you. Take time to dig deep and find this event. Even on dark days, you should focus on the small things that add to your quality of life.

This practice invites abundance into your life. The positive thoughts will allow the flow of excellent outcomes into your realm. As a bonus, these positives will eclipse the adverse events in time.

So every night before going to sleep, write down all the things that you are grateful for and make a list of everything that made you happy.

Final Thoughts on Finding Beauty Around You–and Gaining in Positivity

Choose to see the good in others, even when fighting with them, listen to uplifting music as often as possible and make many compliments to others. In this way, you will make others feel good about themselves. Better yet, the beauty and positivity you invite into your life will enhance your mental balance and open up new doors for you.

Naturopaths Reveal 15 Remedies to Treat Arthritis Pain

January 25, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Aches and pains often come with aging, or at least we assume that this is true. Many adults develop inflammatory conditions and resign themselves to dealing with the arthritis pain. Most individuals take over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen to counter the painful condition. However, others commit to finding natural remedies to combat the aching agony of arthritis.

To treat arthritis, one must understand precisely what the condition is. Arthritis is a degenerative condition that may occur as a result of aging, but may also be the result of a genetic predisposition. Furthermore, there are multiple forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis arises from general wear and tear on joints as we age. Some osteoarthritis occurs because of injuries over a person’s lifetime. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system erroneously sees the joints (and joint tissue) as “the enemy” and attacks what it believes to be foreign tissue.

With either of these situations, the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis arise from the inflammation of the joint tissues. Knowing that inflammation is a prime factor in the occurrence of arthritis pain helps to focus on how to treat the condition.

Doctors typically advise taking the OTC medications, as mentioned above. And, in some severe instances, they may prescribe a mild painkiller. However, recent evidence shows that many of those who have arthritis often become addicted to these painkillers. With nationwide trends influencing doctors to shy away from prescribing opiates or other pain medications due to the possibility of addiction, many patients find themselves looking for natural ways to alleviate the throbbing arthritic aches.

15 Natural Remedies to Alleviate Your Arthritis Pain at Home (no meds needed!)

1. Exercise

You’d think that arthritis should be treated by relaxing and reducing the use of painful joints? Actually, the reverse is true! Regular workouts aid the joints in remaining flexible. Consider how you might feel first thing in the morning – after all those hours of inactivity, you are likely a little stiff. However, once you move around a little, you find it is easier to get around.

The same premise takes place when you walk or do light exercise! Speaking of walking, moderately-paced walking, even just for twenty minutes daily, can help keep your joints flexible. Swimming, perhaps one of the best exercises for those with arthritis, allows for you to move a great deal with little impact on the limbs. Consult with your doctor, but light weight-bearing exercise can also help to strengthen your muscles.

2. Hot and Cold Therapy

While many people living with arthritis do not enjoy cold weather as it tends to amp up the joint pain and stiffness of the condition, cold therapy actually helps to reduce the swelling that is associated with inflammation. For quick pain relief, you can take a bag of frozen vegetables, wrap it in a towel, and place it on the affected area. An excellent investment, however, is a gel-filled ice pack that is reusable. Elevate the affected area, and put on the ice pack. Fifteen minutes to a one-half hour icing will help to reduce the painful swelling that makes one’s joints so stiff.

Heat therapy is also great for relieving arthritic pain; however, you should be aware that heat therapy takes longer to administer (and longer pain relief times). If mornings are tough for you, and time allows, warm baths will help to loosen up those stiff joints that have been sedentary for some time. To provide additional relief, sprinkle Epsom salt in your warm bathwater.

Other forms of heat therapy include using heating pads along with the aforementioned elevation of the affected limbs. You may also see some relief if you sleep under an electric blanket.

You may also find significant relief by alternating hot and cold therapy.

3. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is fast becoming a popular natural method of treating several physical ailments, including arthritis. This method of treatment hails from the Orient, and it involves inserting thin needles into specific pressure points in the body. This practice comes from believing that placing needles in certain areas will cause alleviation of any pain or other physical complaints. Enthusiasts believe that placing needles at specific points of the body re-routes negative energy that might be causing the arthritic pain.

Western medicine is beginning to understand the value of acupuncture. However, if one decides to explore this form of treatment, then find an acupuncturist who is both licensed and certified.

4. Cupping Therapy

Do you like the concept of acupuncture–in theory? But, maybe you cringe at the idea of submitting to needle sticks? Then, you can give cupping therapy a try.

This alternative medicine works on the same principle, determining precise pressure points and redirecting the body’s energy. However, instead of needles, the technician applies pressure by sucking tissue into cups using gentle vacuum pressure.

5. Meditation and other Relaxation Techniques

The National Institute of Health conducted a study in which participants were encouraged to utilize meditation or other techniques to reduce the pain of arthritis. Many individuals found that not only did the practice minimize pain, but it helped the individuals to better cope with any pain that was present. In fact, the reduced stress had a positive effect overall for the participants, and most related that they had a reduction of symptoms due to the lessened stress.

This outcome was especially true for those who experienced depression, along with arthritis.

Many individuals are taking advantage of apps that provide steps to meditate or otherwise experience relaxation techniques.

6. Add Fats to your Diet

Yes, you read that correctly – add some fats to your diet! However, the fats of which we speak aren’t the unhealthy, saturated fats that can lead to weight gain and inflammation in the body. These fats are omega-3 fatty acids that you can add to your diet by eating more fish or by taking supplements. Fish oil supplements, high in these omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown in multiple studies to alleviate pain and swelling associated with arthritis.

Another fatty acid that proves to aid in reducing the pain and stiffness of arthritis is gamma-linolenic acid or GLA. You’ll find GLA in individual plant seeds, such as hemp, evening primrose, black currants, or evening primrose. While you can’t ingest these plant seeds, you can buy the oils of these seeds or find supplements that contain the oils.

7. Try a Massage

As previously stated, many individuals find relief from painful physical conditions by finding ways to relax. A massage is a great way to not only relax but also to soothe tender, inflamed muscles. A certified massage therapist can target problem areas. Regular massage therapy sessions are shown to improve the overall range of motion in affected individuals.

8. Herbal Supplements that Reduce Arthritic Pain

Many supplements on the market boast that they can alleviate the inflammation associated with Arthritis:

Boswellia
bromelain
cat’s claw
Gingko Biloba
stinging nettle
rosehip

Always consult your physician before trying any new supplement.

9. Turmeric

Turmeric is an Indian cooking spice that you may add to your food to reduce inflammation and the resultant swelling of inflamed joints. However, you can also take turmeric supplements. Either way, turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory where natural remedies are concerned.

10. Find a Creative Outlet.

Do you enjoy painting or gardening? Perhaps you like to write. Stress directly links back to the inflammation and pain of arthritis. Whether you have financial or personal concerns that stress you, finding a creative outlet is an excellent natural remedy to alleviating arthritic pain.

11. Laugh out Loud!

An adage says that laughter is the best medicine, and studies show that this is true. Laughter helps to alleviate the stress that links with painful arthritis. Moreover, spending time with people who make you laugh will help to rid you of some of that stress.

Alternatively, watch a funny movie (bonus points if you do this while elevating the arthritic limb and alternate those hot and cold compresses!). Not only will the heat/cold therapy help as a natural remedy, but you’ll also take your mind off any stressful situations you’re experiencing.

12. TENS (Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation)

This natural remedy for arthritis pain is becoming rather popular, especially for those experiencing arthritis pain in their back or shoulders. TENS uses sticky pads outfitted with electrodes that send small shocks of electricity to the affected area. You can adjust the frequency and strength of the shocks with a dial.

The electrical shocks of the TENS pads tend to override the nerve pain associated with arthritis. Furthermore, the TENS pads trigger endorphins, which further dissipate the pain of arthritis.

13. Vitamin D Supplements

You know that Vitamin D is essential to our overall well-being, but did you know that Vitamin D deficiencies have been directly linked to arthritis pain caused by the immune system? A 2016 study found many with Rheumatoid Arthritis had lower than normal levels of Vitamin D. Spend some time in the sun, or take a Vitamin D supplement to experience these natural remedies for arthritis pain.

vitamin d foods are natural remedies arthritis pain

Learn 31 foods that amplify your Vitamin D levels.

14. Chondroitin and Glucosamine

Another top supplement for arthritis pain is the combination of chondroitin and glucosamine. Glucosamine directly affects the growth and maintenance of cartilage. Chondroitin is a natural remedy that prevents the breakdown of cartilage. Together, these supplements help relieve arthritis pain.

15. Yoga and Tai Chi

Low-impact exercise (think yoga, stretching, or Tai Chi) can help to relieve stress and to strengthen the muscles surrounding affected arthritic joints. Furthermore, gentle exercise will help you learn to breathe correctly, delivering vital oxygen to the body–and that can reduce pain. Participating in these activities as little as three times a week can help to alleviate the pain associated with arthritis.

Read why yoga is so useful for treating arthritis pain–and to improve your overall health.

Final Thoughts: Treat Your Arthritis Pain With Natural Remedies

If you hesitate to take prescriptions or over-the-counter medications to resolve your arthritis pain, give these therapies a try. You might just be surprised at how useful these natural remedies can be in helping you feel well again.

15 Inspirational Quotes for Every Cancer Survivor

January 25, 2020 by Power of Positivity

Staying positive while recovering from cancer is easier said than done for every cancer survivor. While positivity is easy in theory, going through treatment and dealing with the genuine effects of the disease can leave anyone down-trodden. However, cultivating a positive mindset (ie: reading inspirational quotes) amidst the battle of cancer is part of what will help you to keep fighting.

Inspirational Quotes for Every Cancer Survivor

The word “cancer” often evokes fear, anger, and similar negative emotions. It’s essential to express these feelings and acknowledge every emotion you have. Just don’t let these negative emotions overtake you.

Amidst these feelings, try to find the happiness and joy inside of you. Regardless of how overwhelming this experience is, don’t let the negativity drown out your inner strength. By connecting with this strength, you’ll discover a newfound resilience that will help you through the darkest of days.

Cancer survivors often attest to the healing power of positive energy. Though “a positive attitude” isn’t a cure-all for what ails you, research shows that positivity can have a tremendous healing effect on the body. Inspirational quotes can bring a smile to your face, encourage you to dig deep and keep pushing ahead in your fight against cancer.

Take heart in the following inspirational quotes as you fight against cancer:

1. “There’s no hope without fear, no fear without hope.”– Baruch Spinoza

While fear is almost inescapable when facing something as serious as cancer, this fear is always coupled with hope.

Fear is deeply rooted in not understanding what will happen in the future. While you fear that the future may hold something terrible, the reality is that your future is uncertain.

Though cancer is in your present, things can and will change for the better. Just as you can choose to be fearful about the future, you can choose to believe that the future is filled with hope.

Take heart that you have hope that more excellent days are on the way.

2. “Courage doesn’t require a lack of fear. Rather, courage requires the judgment that there is something else far more important than fear.” –Ambrose Redmoon

Many people are under the impression that to be courageous, and you can’t be afraid. However, this is hardly the case. Being scared is part of human nature, just as being courageous is. If you’re worried, it’s because you’re human, but that doesn’t mean you can’t face what scares you with a healthy dose of courage.

It’s up to you to decide to have faith in the future. Instead of accepting fear and letting it hold you back, recognize it, and decide that having strength is more important than your fear.

3. “Some days you won’t feel a song inside your heart, but sing anyway.” — Emory Austin

Every day brings a new challenge for cancer survivors. Happiness may be rare to find at this time, search anyway. Even if you don’t feel as though there’s something to smile or sing about, keep the faith.

Though this quote speaks about singing the song of your heart metaphorically, singing can be a healing experience at this time. Even if your song is sad, sing anyway. There’s a sense of catharsis and release found in expressing yourself and letting go of your emotions.

If you don’t sing, find another outlet for your emotions. Consider painting, drawing, or writing.

4. “Cancer affects everyone, whether your friend, sister, mother, daughter, patient, doctor, or coworker.” –Jennifer Aniston

Jennifer Anniston’s inspirational quote reminds us that everyone is affected by cancer. Having cancer can be an incredibly isolating experience. Though many people are affected by cancer, it’s too easy to feel as though you’re all alone in your fight.

This quote is a reminder that you’re never alone. Jennifer Aniston emphasizes cancer’s ability to affect all our lives, reminding us that we have a responsibility to be the community for one other.

Finding a community to connect with at this time is crucial. Whether you have friends, family, or a support group, it’s crucial to have a group of people that will help to recharge your soul and energy as you keep fighting.

5. “Strength is found within the silence of our long-suffering hearts; it is not found amidst joy.” –Felicia Hemans

Adversity builds strength. While these moments are some of the most difficult ones in our life, it is the suffering that shapes us into the most robust version of ourselves.

6. “The value of a man isn’t found in the most convenient and comfortable moments. One’s value is found in where they stand during controversy and challenge.” –Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Life is filled with many different moments. Though we may enjoy the comfortable and convenient moments, the moments that require us to be the most courageous version of ourselves are those that transform us for the better.

7. “Cancer, may take away my physical abilities, but it can’t touch my soul, it can’t touch my heart, and it can’t touch my mind.” –Jim Valvano

Jim Valvano’s inspirational quote reminds us that whatever effect cancer has on the body your mind, heart, and soul are out of its reach. Wherever you are in your journey, remember to hold tight to these three things.

8. “Though cancer started the fight, you will finish it.” –GotCancer.org

Don’t give up, and don’t give in. Though cancer is a fight, you’re going to finish. On days when you don’t feel like fighting, keep this quote in mind. You’re stronger than you know, and you’re just on the other side of success.

9. “Someone can become a victim or a survivor after having cancer. It’s all in your mindset.” –Dave Pelzer

Your mindset can change everything.

The way we think can change how we feel about ourselves, our lives, and the future. Even though cancer can be devastating, it doesn’t have to devastate you.

Don’t give in to the pain you feel. Regardless of how cancer has made you overthink, you were never its victim. You are a cancer survivor, and you will continue to win this fight.

10. “Gain courage, confidence, and strength from each experience you’ve had by stopping to look at fear in its face. At this point, you must be brave enough to do that which you thought you couldn’t do.” –Eleanor Roosevelt

Eleanor Roosevelt’s inspirational quote reminds us that we always have the power to overcome our most significant obstacles. Something as devastating as cancer can overwhelm us and leave us feeling weak, discouraged, and insecure.

This quote inspires us to get up, look fear in the face, and dig in to pull the confidence, courage, and strength out of this situation and come out on top.

11. ‘If you’ve reached the end of the rope, start tying a knot and hold on tight.” –Franklin D. Roosevelt

FDR has it right in this quote about tenacity. With something like cancer, it’s too easy to feel overwhelmed and like you’ve lost control of your life.

Whatever your current situation may be, let this quote remind you to take hold and keep hanging on. Though this is an incredibly trying time, don’t give up. Your victory is just on the other side of this battle.

12. “We only have two options, emotionally and medically: Fight like hell or give up.” –Lance Armstrong

Cancer survivor Lance Armstrong is spot on with this quote. Depending on the type and stage of cancer, doctors often give their patients the two options of fighting or letting the disease go untreated.

Though there may be other factors involved, Armstrong points out that when faced with the opportunity to give up or to fight back, he chose to fight like hell. Remind yourself today and every day after that to keep going strong in your fight against cancer.

13. “You won’t understand how much strength you have until your only choice is to be strong.” –Cayla Mills

No one is prepared to have cancer. This unwelcome diagnosis often feels like an attack. Though it’s hard to get up and fight back, this quote reminds us that this is exactly what needs to be done.

While you may feel as though you’re at your weakest point in life, don’t give in. Find the strength deep down inside of you and give it everything you’ve got.

14. “The human soul and spirit to survive are far stronger than anything else that may happen to them.” –C.C. Scott

It isn’t easy to stop thinking of cancers, something that’s happened to us. While it may feel as though life’s dealt us an unfair hand, don’t let this overwhelming feeling cause you to feel defeated.

Though battling cancer is grueling, don’t let it crush your soul. Find the resilience that C.C. Scott talks about as you work to find your inner strength. No matter how hard it gets, know that your spirit and soul are stronger than anything else in this world.

15. “Cancer didn’t bring me to my knees, it brought me to my feet.” –Michael Douglas

You’ve defeated the Big C, and you feel like a warrior. It’s most likely that you emerged with greater mental strength than you knew you had. Your body will recover from the physical toll in time, but the inner fortitude you developed throughout the journey will remain a valuable tool.

Final Thoughts on Being a Cancer Survivor

Every cancer survivor has their own unique experience. In spite of this, every cancer survivor also experiences some of the same challenges and successes that occur on the road to recovery. The key to remaining positive during this experience is finding support and camaraderie in the stories and inspirational quotes of others.

Let these inspirational quotes about cancer give you hope and inspire you to keep fighting. Though your future still remains to be seen, take heart in the knowledge that you’ve got a bright future ahead of you.

WWF Ramps Up Efforts To End African Rhino Poaching

January 25, 2020 by Power of Positivity

There was a 7,700% increase in rhino poaching in South Africa between 2007 and 2013.

That translates to an increase from 13 to 1,004 rhinos killed due to poaching. Of course, rhinos are not the only animals sought after for their monetary value. Elephants, tigers, and leopards are also prime targets for poachers. Poaching has become an enormous problem – and business – in continents like Africa and South America.

Here are some statistics about poaching to give you an idea of the scale of this issue:

Poaching threatens the last of the wild tigers, numbering around 3,890.
Poachers killed 100,000 elephants between 2014 and 2017 to collect their ivory.
Between January 2005 and January 2017, nearly 2,000 elephants and roughly 6,300 rhinos died at the hands of poachers in South Africa and Kenya alone.
East Africa’s elephant population declined by nearly 50% between 2006 and 2015.
Data suggests rhino poaching will increase by about 356% between 2015 and 2030.
Rhino horn sells for between $15,000 and $30,000 a pound in Vietnam and China.

These numbers offer only a glimpse into the growing illegal wildlife trade, which the International Air Transport Association estimates to equal a whopping. $19 billion a year. Unfortunately, the wildlife trade doesn’t just affect animals, either. According to National Geographic, nearly 600 rangers in Africa were shot and killed by poachers while protecting wildlife between 2009 and 2016.

In one of the continent’s most dangerous areas, the Democratic Republic of the Congo’s Virunga National Park, poachers murdered at least 170 rangers in the past 20 years.

A local photographer in Northern Botswana in Africa captured a heartbreaking image of an elephant poached for its ivory. This image shows the gravity of the situation. It also proves that despite efforts from nonprofits and government organizations, poaching continues to be a problem for some of the most endangered species on the planet.

Credit: Justin Sullivan

Unfortunately, this is just one tragic scene out of many in parts of Africa and South America. As long as there’s a demand for ivory and keratin from rhino horns, poachers will still exist because there’s a lot of money to be made. However, there is still hope to save these beautiful animals from a painful and unnecessary death.

Worldwide efforts to end rhino poaching

As well as providing physical protection for these animals, many countries now ban poaching and impose fees upon those who break the law. Poachers in Africa and Asia are usually impoverished local people who don’t make much profit in comparison to traders, so punishments are generally less severe than those for the illegal trade of animals.

Also, many nonprofits around the world are working to end poaching by showing poachers alternative ways to earn a living that doesn’t harm animals or humans. In addition to this, efforts are being made to decrease demand for the products made from poached animals. If there’s no demand for the products, there would be no need to kill animals for their tusks or horns.

However, not all who hunt these animals kill them. Many illegally capture exotic animals, including rare birds, reptiles, turtles, crocodiles, and snakes, to sell them to buyers around the globe. The U.S. State Department estimates the illicit wildlife trafficking industry to be worth around $10 billion every year.

They then stuff the captured animals into small, uncomfortable spaces such as in boxes, thermoses, hair curlers, hubcaps, and other cruel environments to ship them to a buyer. These animals are plucked from their habitats only to go up for sale online. Eventually, they enter into aquariums or the exotic pet trade. Of course, trading animals is legal as long as it doesn’t undermine the viability of a species.

It becomes illegal when it harms the animal population as a whole. So, the problem is more widespread than just poaching. Animals sold in the wildlife trade often live short, miserable lives due to disease and unhealthy living conditions.

Why does poaching keep happening?

In many areas, citizens simply do not see protecting wildlife from poachers as a priority. And, they face another challenge–a simple shortage of workforce to do the necessary work. In poorer countries, they don’t hire enough law enforcement officials to protect the many animals poached every year. Not to mention, many civilian people remain uninvolved and don’t report the crime. That’s because they fear retribution by the poachers.

Efforts by WWF to stop poaching

There is some good news in regard to poaching, though. When WWF launched its African Rhino Program in 1997, there were 8,466 white rhinos and 2,599 critically endangered black rhinos remaining in the wild. Today, those numbers are up to around 17,500 white rhinos and more than 4,000 black rhinos.

Also, in the eastern sector of Rajaji National Park in the Himalayas, WWF helped increase tiger populations by 50% from 2004 to 2008.

Final Thoughts About Putting an End to Rhino Poaching

While rhino poaching in Africa is still a pressing issue. However, governments and rescue agencies are making efforts are to control and end poaching of all species altogether. Also, they strive to campaign for awareness about the magnitude of the issue and advocate for education.

Are you wondering how you can help stop the poaching of rhinos, elephants, and other endangered species?

Consider donating to nonprofits so they can keep protecting wildlife. And they can continue to educate consumers about not buying products from poached animals. Both these measures are both wonderful ways to keep these precious animals alive.

18 Inspirational Love Quotes from the Dalai Lama

January 24, 2020 by Power of Positivity

The Dalai Lama is known for being the head of the church in Tibet. His wisdom speaks volume about character. Through the years, we have learned many inspirational love quotes from the Dalai Lama. These wise words can offer you inspiration when you need encouragement and comfort during troubled times.

These church leaders spend their lives spreading wise words about kindness around the world. The hope is to encourage appreciation and discourage hate. To hear these words can help put us in a mental state to move forward with a positive attitude in life. Take a look.

Here are 18 inspirational quotes about love by the Dalai Lama.

1. “Love is the absence of judgment.”

The Dalai Lama tells us that when you love someone, you do not judge them. No one, including you, is perfect. As you would hope someone would accept your flaws and love you without judgment, you should do the same to others.

2. “Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive.”

Some people think that people only need food and water to survive. That’s not the case. We, as humans, require love in our lives.

3. “Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.”

Many couples will talk about how much they need each other. This relationship turns into co-dependence instead of love. People who love each other can be completely independent but still, want each other.

4. “Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.”

Love is not necessarily secure, sometimes. Many people take the easy way out by default. The Dalai Lama tells us that the best love sometimes involves a substantial risk. You shouldn’t be afraid to leap. It might just be worth it.

5. “The more you are motivated by love; the more fearless and free your action will be.”

What guides your actions? Some people are motivated by greed. Others are motivated by love. When you are motivated by love, your actions will follow positively. When you need to make decisions in life, you will make better decisions since love guides your way.

6. “We can live without religion and meditation, but we cannot survive without human affection.”

Many people think that the Dalai Lama’s priority is religion or meditation. He attempts to correct this misconception with this quote. He explains that while spirituality and meditation are high priorities, the true thing all humans need is love.

7. “Give the ones you love wings to fly, roots to come back, and reasons to stay.”

To create great relationships with the people you love, you need to give them freedom. You also need to provide them with open arms and love when they come back. The relationship will be stronger when they go to explore on their own for a short time.

8. “Love and Compassion are the true religions to me. But to develop this, we do not need to believe in any religion.”

There are many religions to choose from. We learn here that the specifics of faith do not matter. The thing that matters is that you follow the concept of love. This statement means that people of any religion should come together instead of fighting as long as they share that same emphasis on love. Even serious disagreements don’t need to result in hate this way.

9. “When we feel love and kindness toward others, it not only makes others feel loved and cared for, but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace.”

This love quotes eludes to looking after ourselves. When we are kind to others, we are really kind to ourselves. When we love toward others, it satisfies something in us that we need to find peace and self-love. Yes, we should love others to be kind to them, but we benefit, too.

10. “Wherever you have friends, that’s your country, and wherever you receive love, that’s your home.”

It doesn’t matter where you come from. It’s where your heart lands. The importance is that your heart thrives somewhere with plenty of love and acceptance. When you arrive in that place, that’s home.

11. “Because we all share an identical need for love, it is possible to feel that anybody we meet, in whatever circumstances, is a brother or sister.”

We are all connected in the universe. The reason we are all connected in that we all want and need love. That should unite us all and cause each other to treat one another like family.

12. “I pray for all of us, oppressor and friend, that together we may succeed in building a better world through human understanding and love, and that in doing so we may reduce the pain and suffering of all sentient beings.”

It’s an undeniable fact that there is much pain in the world. Most of this suffering results from people hating each other unnecessarily. The consequences can lead to war and death. However, there are ways we can minimize or even get rid of this suffering. The answer here seems to be love. When we show each other respect, the pain will end.

13. “Joy is the reward, really, of seeking to give joy to others. When you show compassion, when you show caring when you show love to others, do things for others, in a wonderful way, you have a deep joy that you can get in no other way. You can’t buy it with money. You can be the richest person on Earth, but if you care only about yourself, I can bet my bottom dollar, you will not be happy and joyful. But when you are caring, compassionate, more concerned about the welfare of others than about your own, wonderfully, wonderfully, you suddenly feel a warm glow in your heart, because you have, in fact, wiped the tears from the eyes of another.”

There is something far more valuable than money. That is joy. People get pleasure from showing joy and love to others. Even more, it’s a deep joy that goes down to the soul.

14. “There are only two days in the year that nothing can be done. One is called yesterday, and the other is called tomorrow, so today is the right day to love, believe, do, and mostly live.”

People need to stay in the present. When people focus on love in the past or future, they are missing out on the love that is right in front of them right then. It’s also a reminder not to wait. When you have the opportunity to love your neighbor or your lover today, you should take that opportunity without question.

15. “Joy is, in fact, quite contagious. As is love, compassion, and generosity. So being more joyful is not just about having more fun. We’re talking about a more empathetic, more empowered, even more spiritual state of mind that is totally engaged with the world.”

When you demonstrate kindness and love, other people will catch onto your intentions like a beautiful cold. They will start to spread love, too. The people they spread love to will continue the pattern. Love is something that everyone wants, so people naturally drift toward it. However, someone needs to start spreading the desire to begin the process.

16. “If a person shows anger to you, and you show anger in return, the result is disaster. If you nurse hatred, you will never be happy, even in the lap of luxury. By contrast, if you control your anger and show its opposite – love, compassion, tolerance, and patience – then not only do you remain in peace, but gradually, the anger of others also will diminish.”

We will not always meet other people who show us love. Some of them will show us hate. When that happens, it can be easy to return the hate. Instead, it’s a better idea to return their hatred with love. You will be happier yourself, and you may even change the person’s negative outlook.

17. “People were created to be loved. Things were created to be used. The reason why the world is in chaos is because things are being loved, and people are being used.”

It’s a sad fact that some people value material things over the things that are truly important in this world, such as love. This thinking can lead to war and other chaos in the world. The world needs to establish the correct priorities. When we prioritize love over greed, the chaotic things in the world start to calm down.

18. “Living in society, we must share the suffering of our fellow citizens and practice compassion and tolerance, not only toward our loved ones but also toward our enemies.”

It’s easy to love the people who love us. However, it’s even more important to love the people who don’t like us.

Need another dose of positivity? Read these quotes to bring love and light to your life.

Final Thoughts on These Dalai Lama Inspirational Quotes About Love

These inspirational love quotes by the Dalai Lama are a great way to inspire yourself to love the people around you, whether they show you the same respect back or not. It’s also a great way to guide your life toward love instead of greed or other priorities. When other people see your new emphasis on love, hopefully, they will do the same.

12 Ways to Beat Stomach Flu Without Medication

January 24, 2020 by Power of Positivity

When a stomach bug hits, it can feel as though everything is upside down. Although the feeling of battling the stomach flu will make you want to search for a medication to ease your symptoms, you’ll likely find that natural remedies can be just as effective.

How to Beat the Stomach Flu with Home Remedies

If you’re stuck in bed with the flu, never fear. With the best home remedies, you can use all-natural, tried-and-true techniques to start feeling better. The following 12 home remedies are the best ways to begin treating your stomach flu:

1. Get Some Quality Sleep

Though we all want a quick and easy way to cure flu, experts say that sleep is the best option. Though you may be tired of lying in bed all day, your body needs the rest to recover from the virus waging war on your body.

While you may hope your doctor can prescribe medicine to rid your body of the virus magically, the fact is that this infection won’t respond to medications. Though antibiotics will work against bacteria-borne illnesses, they won’t work against viruses. The best medicine for you at this time is to spend your days and nights in bed.

Fight off the flu by reducing your physical activity and letting your body heal. If possible, change your sheets and disinfect all surfaces to reduce the risk of spreading the bug. Though being forced to rest can be aggravating, the longer you sleep, the faster you’ll recover.

2. Consume Ice Chips

With a stomach virus, you’re likely to experience a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. The most disruptive complication caused by this virus is dehydration. Though you may not feel up to drinking or eating anything, you need to rehydrate.

One of the most effective ways to battle dehydration when sick is to suck on ice chips. The benefit of using ice chips is that you’ll be able to consume liquids at a steady pace without triggering nausea. Should you eat or drink nothing else, consuming ice chips will help you to rehydrate your body.

3. Drink Clear Fluids

Once you’re able to keep liquids down, the next best step in your road to recovery is to double down on the liquids. The more fluids you drink, the faster you’ll be able to overcome dehydration.

Stock up on clear liquids as you regain your appetite. As clear liquids are mostly carbs and water, they’ll be the easiest to digest. Broth, water, and decaffeinated teas are all excellent choices as you recover from the flu.

Don’t neglect fruit juices as you rehydrate. Try organic, no added sugar selections like cranberry, grape, and fruit juice.

4. Make Your Own Rice Water

Rice water is another liquid to consider as you recover from your sickness. Rice water or “rice tea” has long since been a remedy for upset stomachs, indigestion, nausea, and other unpleasant systems associated with the flu.

If you already have rice at home, you can easily make rice water yourself. After boiling rice for 15 minutes, strain the rice and drink the water after it cools down. The water is most effective if consumed when warm.

5. Eat Bland Foods While You Recover from Stomach Flu

As your body fights the virus, it’s natural to avoid eating any food. However, your body needs the energy to keep fighting. If you’re not feeling up to eating a hearty meal, bland foods like toast, rice, bananas, and apple sauce are all options for food that will fill you up without triggering nausea.

Often referred to as the BRAT diet, this simple diet of all bland food will be gentle on your body. While this diet is safe as you recover, remember that you still need to add more nutrients to your meals. Once you’re adequately rehydrated and starting to feel less nauseous, it’s essential to return to a nutrient-rich diet.

6. Eat More Ginger

Ginger is another superfood to consider adding to your holistic recovery diet. Ginger is incredibly useful in alleviating nausea. Though ginger is helpful at this time, it’s best to consume it in moderation as concentrated amounts of ginger can lead to diarrhea.

As you get over the flu, it’s best to eat ginger by grating it in your tea or soup. This way, you’ll be able to eat a moderate amount.

7. Take Peppermint Capsules

Peppermint is another favorite for soothing indigestion and upset stomachs. If you’re experiencing symptoms of the flu-like pain in your lower gut or indigestion, peppermint can help.

Research shows that the most effective way to consume peppermint is by taking coated capsules. Found online, at grocery stores, and health food stores, these capsules contain peppermint oil and are highly effective. The tablets allow the peppermint oil to bypass the stomach and instead release into the small bowel. By taking these capsules twice a day, you’ll feel the most relief from the worst symptoms of the flu.

8. Drink Some Tea

Tea is another calming beverage to consider as you recover from the flu. The best tea to drink when facing the flu is herbal tea.

Herbs like cinnamon, clove, and sage are incredibly useful in helping the body fight germs. Together or separately, these herbal teas will help to soothe your stomach and fight the virus with its many antioxidants.

If you have these fresh herbs already in your home, try making this tea yourself. Steep the cinnamon, clove, and sage in freshly boiled water. Drink the tea without sugar to reduce the likelihood of diarrhea.

9. Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is one of the most versatile cure-alls when it comes to treating a variety of ailments. If you’re an avid drinker of apple cider vinegar, experts found that ACV may even be able to prevent the flu.

If you are currently battling the flu, ACV is something you should add to your diet as soon as possible. The many benefits of ACV make it an excellent treatment for the worst of the flu. Raw ACV is a powerful probiotic that will help with digestion as it increases the good bacteria in your gut.

Similarly, ACV’s anti-microbial and anti-infective qualities help destroy germs, fight against infections, and treat upset stomachs. In addition to increasing your immunity, take ACV to balance your stomach’s pH. By adjusting your pH, you’ll restore your body’s alkalinity to normal levels, which will help to fight off the virus.

When purchasing ACV, make sure to get the raw version. Most ACV you’ll see are artificially processed and don’t have the probiotics you need to treat the flu.

10. Try Yogurt and Kefir During a Stomach Flu Bout

While most people are under the impression that they should avoid dairy items during the flu, the likes of kefir and yogurt are all excellent choices for getting your strength back after recovering from the flu.

If you’re still nauseous, stick to bland foods until you are feeling better. Once you can stomach your regular diet, yogurt and kefir can help you restore your body to its natural level of good bacteria.

Yogurt and kefir are high in probiotics. So make them a go-to if you are attempting to recover from the flu quickly. These foods will stabilize your blood sugar, helping you to feel stronger.

Don’t want to add dairy to your diet? Try lactose-free yogurt options. Remember, it’s best to try plain yogurt as the flavored kind can be too irritating for anyone that is still in recovery mode after dealing with a stomach virus.

11. Take Probiotic Supplements

If you’ve had your fill of yogurt and kefir or aren’t ready to eat it yet, consider getting your probiotics elsewhere. Get rid of the harmful bacteria from the flu with probiotic supplements. These probiotics wipe out the antibiotics that are responsible for upsetting symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea.

Add probiotic supplements to your diet to start replenishing your gut’s good bacteria. This way, you’ll be able to bring balance to your digestive system. As you look for the best probiotics to use, look for those that will specifically target the stomach flu. Probiotics like Bio-K+ are ideal for replenishing your gut and putting an end to the worst of your symptoms.

12. Try Citrus Fruits

Don’t forget fresh fruits when you’re fighting the stomach flu. Citrus fruits like grapefruits, lemons, and oranges are another option to consider as you work to fight the flu.

These types of fruits have higher levels of vitamin C and flavonoids that will help boost your immunity and decrease inflammation as you fight your stomach virus.

If you’re not ready to eat anything, try drinking fresh juice. For the full effects of these fruits, it’s best to drink juice with as few additives as possible.

Read how researchers are learning how to prevent the formation of viruses in humans.

Final Thoughts on Beating the Stomach Flu with Home Remedies

Put an end to the worst symptoms of the stomach flu with these powerful natural remedies. Natural herbs, fruits, and similar solutions are quite effective at helping your body heal itself.

Never underestimate the power of sleep, fresh fruit juice, water, and the rest of the home remedies above. By relying on holistic healing techniques, you’ll find that you feel better in no time at all.

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