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The Sacred Beliefs That All Religions Share

November 11, 2019 by Power of Positivity

There is an eternal essence that flows within all belief systems. The common sacred element that religions share is the fluidity of the greatest substance on earth: water. We come from water. The majority of our physical body is embodied by it. We require its purification, its thirst for clarity, and its physical necessity to survive. But, water is deeper than this. It holds divine wisdom that ties all beliefs together. From birth to death, this is the substance that binds us at its mercy.

The Sacred Belief That All Religions Share

In most religions, rivers or streams are used as a ritual in purification. Consider the following examples of its significance.

Christianity:

In Christianity, it is used for Baptism as a sacred ritual of holiness and communion. It represents the cleansing purification of the soul. In baptism rituals, water washes away past sins.

Here are some passages from the New Testament of the Bible that support this belief:

Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and the Spirit.” ~John 3:5

“But those who drink the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” ~John 4:14

However, Christians also acknowledge a darker meaning of water– the wrath of an angered God. Think of Noah and the Great Flood and how evil was wiped out by it. The Bible describes humankind as being so wicked that God was displeased. He decided to destroy the evil by flooding the earth. Only Noah, his family, and the creatures who boarded his ark were saved from these great floods.

Judaism:

In Judaism, it is used in Mikveh which is a ritual washing of several purposes (as before Sabbath and after menstruation).

Water is very central in The Torah, the five books handed down by Moses. These writings formed the basis of the very laws of Judea. These laws were important to the survival of the ancient people of the Holy Land, an arid climate that adopted the management of this resource both for spiritual reasons as well as for the very survival of the people. Thus, water symbolizes life itself in Judaism.

Islam:

In the Muslim religion, it is a requirement to wash with water before entering prayer or handling the Qur’an.

Aside from purification rituals for spiritual purposes, followers of Islam appreciate this also as a resource and gift from Allah. Much like the early Jewish people, those ancient people of Islamic faith dwelled in desert regions. The stream near any settlement supported life, renewed the spirit, and cleansed the body and soul.

“O you who believe, when you prepare for prayer, wash your faces and your hand to the elbows; rub your head and your feet to the ankles.” ~Qur’an 5: 7/8

Hinduism:

In Hinduism, water has a special placed since it is believed to have spiritually cleansing powers.

Much as Christians hold Baptisms, Hindus perform cleansing rituals in the sacred waters of the River Ganges. Moreover, they performed such rituals over many centuries. Despite the fact that the river is polluted today, Hindus continue to regard it as a spiritual place. Pilgrims continue to visit its banks to this very day.

Buddhism:

In Buddhism, is used for temples and for the sacred ritual of drinking tea.

What all these religions and others share is the common belief that water is of importance in striving to attain purity. Here are some examples of religious texts that mention water:

A text from the Tao Te Ching states the following:

“The highest goodness is to be like water. Water benefits all the Ten Thousand Things, yet does not compete. Water will go to the low places everyone despises and be content.”

Final Thoughts: Water is Common Ground Held by All Theologies

There is no doubt that we are sustained by water and all the spiritual meanings it has acquired from myths to religions. It holds tremendous significance.

What does water mean to you? How do you feel when you are around it? Do you feel the serenity when walking along the beach? Can you feel peace when you are sitting by a lake? Do you feel recharged after a hot shower?

It is emotional, just like when we release the water of tears. And it is almost intangible, as you cannot hold on to it in your hands for very long. Also, it is malleable, taking the shape of any vessel that holds it. It freezes and it heats in varying temperatures. It’s mystical and mystifying. We use it for cleansing, rituals, eating, drinking, and beauty.

Water controls the environment and all of our lives. And, in spite of water being ever-present, we ignore its sacredness.

Water is the trinity that holds the mind, body, and spirit together. It is what holds the earth, plants, humans, and animals together as one. As it flows, it is ever-changing. It washes away sins, and cleanses the body of any impurities.

Dr. Masaru Emoto’s Studies of Water

According to studies conducted by the Japanese scientist, Dr. Masaru Emoto, our thoughts and feelings influence the molecular structure of water. During this study, he analyzed water crystals and exposed them to thoughts and feelings. He used positive and negative feelings to see how the crystals were influenced. Love became a beautiful snowflake structure. Hate had abnormal distorted shapes in its crystallized state.

Dr. Emoto wrote the following in Hidden Messages in Water,

“Water records information, and while circulating throughout the earth distributes information. This water sent from the universe is full of information of life.”

Final Thoughts on the Connection Between Water and Religions Around the World

Allow this resource to lift you through its divine energy. Let it wash away all your sorrows and purify you through its sacred elements. Drink enough water to keep a healthy body. The lack of water has shown to cause many diseases. The human body is like a universe and in it, we carry the mysteries of this incredible commodity. The next time that you feel stressed or sad take a walk around a lake or listen to a flowing creek. The sound alone will bring you back to a more balanced state. Since the beginning of time, water has been the magical genie that grants us the gift of life.

Pediatrician Reveals 18 Foods Even the Pickiest Children Will Eat

November 11, 2019 by Power of Positivity

When it comes to feeding our children, we all want the best in nutrition (first of all) and flavor for them. It gives our hearts great joy when we see them chow down on their mash potatoes, chicken, and more, knowing their tiny tummies are full, and they are getting all the nutrients that they need.

However, there are times when they won’t eat a particular vegetable or drink their milk, for instance. We may even bribe them with money, candy, or a sticker to eat those funny-looking, green vegetables that look like little trees (i.e., broccoli). However, many dieticians and pediatricians agree that using these tactics are not the best way to ensure they are getting enough nutrients.

Another thing to note is that even though a child may not try a particular food, the first few times doesn’t mean he/she won’t like it eventually. The children may not taste the new offering until you expose it to them around 15 times.

So, if your child is a picky eater, which many are, it’s good to expose them to alternate foods as much as possible, especially while they are very young, like toddlers. For example, if he/she loves sandwiches, you should rotate the bread by replacing it with whole wheat pita, whole wheat bread, whole-grain English muffins, and whole wheat wraps. For spreads, for instance, you should try seed or nut butter, cream cheese, hummus, and avocado.

FOODS CHILDREN LOVE, ACCORDING TO PEDIATRICIANS

• Small pieces of various healthy food choices:

When serving your child different healthy food choices, keep in mind that they must have small pieces to keep from encountering a choking hazard. American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents should avoid popcorn and even hot dogs unless you cut up the hot dogs into small pieces.

The following includes tasty food choices that are best when served in small pieces:

1. Marshmallows (in small amounts, to add a hint of sweetness)

2. Raw baby carrots

3. Seeds

4. Beans-the most significant sources of fiber and a great source of protein, particularly for children that are prone to constipation. However, they are easy to chew and are tasty, especially with great seasonings.

• Small, round, and triangular-shaped, healthy food choices:

5. Cherry tomatoes

6. Whole grapes

7. Chicken nuggets

8. Quesadilla- Fill a quesadilla wrap with various vitamins and minerals. Get creative here! Choose a vegetarian offering filled with beans and cheese or one with, or with meat, such as with grilled chicken or ground beef.

9. Sandwiches

Whether it is peanut butter with honey or sliced banana circles or deli meat with cheese, cutting the sandwiches in triangular shapes is vital for easy eating. Also, children will be overjoyed eating sandwiches with a unique shape.

Another excellent example of triangular sandwiches for easier eating is taking a whole wheat tortilla and put in sauteed black beans and spinach. Then, sprinkle cheese on top of the tortilla and cut it into little triangle sandwiches.

• Other healthy foods that you should cut into bite-sized pieces:

10. Raw fruit

11. Fresh celery sticks

12. Different raw vegetables, such as cauliflower, and cucumbers

Potatoes, raw vegetables, or raw fruits should always be cut into small, bite-sized pieces that are no bigger than a one-half inch size. Other good choices of vegetables include canned, fresh veggies, such as peeled cucumber, zucchini slices, or quartered cherry tomatoes. Many of these fruit and veggies are spectacular for vitamin C, in which many people, adults, and kids are not getting enough of.

• Complimentary food items to combine with other food

13. Peanut butter

14. Yogurt

15. Cottage cheese

16. Applesauce

17. Sliced avocado

18. Crackers

These choices and more are complimentary to many other flavors for children’s lunch boxes. The following includes various ways to use these complimentary food items to create very tasteful and nutritional treats:

Mashed avocado and black bean roll-ups with banana nut butter, ranch dressing, celery, and 1/4 cup pretzels
Pita pizzas with five slices of cucumber, zucchini, 1/4 cup trail mix, and five strawberries cut into quarters
Avocado sandwich, six small pieces of your choice of cheese, six crackers, and eight halved grapes
1/4 cup of chopped pear, 1/4 cup of turkey meatballs chopped in pieces, 1/4 cup of cereal O’s, and 1/4 cup of well-cooked of green beans
1/4 cup of chopped canned apricots, five animal crackers, 1/4 cup of cooked asparagus tips, 1/4 cup of brown rice, and 1/4 cup of shredded chicken
One small, homemade, whole-grain muffin torn in pieces, 1/4 cup of strawberry halves, 1/2 cup of Greek whole milk yogurt, and 1/4 cup of canned carrot circles
1/2 banana, 1/2 sunflower seed butter sandwich, and 1/2h cup of Greek whole milk
Nut butter on a sheet of Graham crackers, 1/2 cup of cottage cheese, and 1/4 cup of canned pineapples
Whole wheat mini-bagel with carrot chips and a string cheese
Olive oil on whole wheat pasta with a veggie-based and fruit-based smoothie
Yogurt with whole wheat crackers and fruit
Tuna fish with guacamole, mayo, and pretzels for dipping
Brown rice cakes with shredded mozzarella cheese, guacamole spread, and diced tomatoes sprinkled on top

A note on avocados

Avocados are amazing- they are one of the fruit in the world that has the most nutrients. It has vitamins, such as vitamin C, E, K, and B6. It also has riboflavin, niacin, folate, magnesium, potassium, pantothenic acid, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, and lutein. Avocados have some fat content, as well. However, healthy fat is beneficial in boosting skin health, and these fats enhance the absorption of certain minerals, nutrients, and minerals.

Kids should have a healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, fat-free dairy products, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains. The foods could be either organic or conventional.

Cube-sized shredded or soft meat is a great iron source. You can roast or stew pork loin, tender roast beef, or chicken with a lot of liquid, for instance. Two one-inch cuts of this meat are over half of what a toddler needs in protein for the day.

Also, it’s good to regularly include healthy fats, such as omega-3s in cod and salmon, in young children’s diets while they are young instead of risking them to be aversive while trying them when they are older. Furthermore, many of these foods have vitamin D, which is vital because having low vitamin D can lead to various serious diseases.

OTHER IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT NUTRITION AND YOUNG CHILDREN

Another thing to consider when it comes to young children is their portion sizes. A dietician from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics stated that toddlers only need about 25-50% of an adult portion. So, while a banana gives up to four fruit servings, a toddler will be full of it and won’t be interested in eating other foods. With that in mind, it is vital to make the serving sizes of various healthy food choices that will amount to no more than 25 to 50% of what you would eat.

The dietician also stated that babies are born with the inherent knowledge of when they are hungry and whey they are not. We, as parents, sometimes override that natural talent of theirs.

Also, the elementary school environment can assist in teaching kids about eating behaviors and dietary patterns. Approximately 50% of U.S. schoolchildren participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP). The requirements of these meals are consistently served with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and adhere to the recommended dietary allowance for vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, iron, and calories. Also, schools offer access to other food sources, such as vending machines, which may contribute to low diet quality depending on the foods’ nature.

There are specific food allergens to beware of in some high-quality foods. The eight most common food allergens include wheat, dairy, eggs, shellfish, fish, peanuts, soy, and tree nuts. (Whole peanuts shouldn’t be served to young children anyway, seeing that this is a choking hazard.)

So, it’s imperative to check with the manager at your child’s daycare to see whether your child reacted to any foods that are prone to food allergens. Even if the child had a slight reaction, it’s still imperative to find out and not take it lightly.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON FEEDING THE PICKIEST CHILDREN

We all, as parents, want what is best for our youngsters. This sentiment is even true when it comes to them getting adequate nutrition.

So, if your children are picky eaters, which many are, exposing them to other foods as much as possible will go a long way. So, even though a child may not try a particular food the first few times, it doesn’t mean he/she won’t like it eventually. And eating the 18 foods mentioned above are food choices that even the pickiest of kids will eat.

Science Explains 12 Benefits of Keeping a Gratitude Journal

November 11, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Most of us are familiar with gratitude, the feeling that we often equate with being grateful or thankful. However, few are familiar with gratitude journals and how they can make those gratitude-filled moments in our lives even more impactful.

That said, evidence suggests that writing down the feelings we associate with these acts of kindness can positively impact. Furthermore, we feel those effects on our health in a variety of ways.

WHAT IS A GRATITUDE JOURNAL?

In short, a thankfulness-based journal is a personal diary that is used to chronicle and later reflect on meaningful moments in one’s life. And they don’t always have to be monumental. It could be something as small as the cashier at the local grocery store asking about your day. Or, it might even a friendly hello from a stranger.

While these kind acts do make us feel good while we are in the moment, we often forget about them as the day goes on. Writing about these experiences is a great way to reflect on them when we are feeling low and need a reason to smile. Also, note that this is not all rooted in hyperbole. Indeed, there is a considerable amount of scientific evidence that substantiates these claims.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND GRATITUDE-BASED JOURNALING

So writing down the things that we are most grateful for can trigger positive vibes. However, there is much more to the equation.

Feeling truly appreciative when someone goes out of their way to help us or brighten our day allows the brain to focus more on the positive aspects of our lives as opposed to the negative ones. This shift in thinking helps minimize the impact that day-to-day external frustrations can have on our lives. Thus, it can significantly reduce stress. This fact is essential since stress can lead to a wide range of health problems.

12 BENEFITS THAT COME WITH KEEPING A GRATITUDE JOURNAL

Now we’re a little more familiar with gratitude-based journaling. And we know how it can keep stress levels from wreaking havoc on our lives. Next, let’s take a look at some of the other benefits that come with making these positive and meaningful journal entries:

1. BETTER PHYSICAL HEALTH

Because journaling helps lower stress, those who engage in gratitude-based journaling tend to have fewer health problems than those who do not. In a study published by the American Heart Association, those who are struggling with chronic stress are more likely to develop the following health problems:

Memory problems
An inability to concentrate
Anxiety and depression
Insomnia
Cardiovascular problems
Depression
Poor digestive health
Headaches
Hypertension
Muscle cramps

Also, note that this list does not encompass all of the health problems associated with chronic stress. Moreover, it is a list of the ones frequently reported by individuals who lead stressful lives.

2. BETTER PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH

Most physicians and mental health experts will agree that psychological health is just as important as physical health. That said, writing down the things that inspire feelings of gratefulness has been shown to improve psychological health by reducing feelings of anxiety, depression, and other symptoms commonly associated with mental illnesses. Also, those who express gratitude, either outwardly or through journaling, are less likely to harbor feelings of envy, resentment, frustration, or regret, according to several studies.

3. MORE EMPATHY AND LESS AGGRESSION

Many will argue that being truly appreciative in response to kind acts can make you a better person. To further emphasize this point, we need only take a look at a 2011 study conducted by the University of Kentucky. The study revealed that participants who routinely expressed gratitude in one way or another were less likely to become retaliatory toward those who they believed wronged them in some way. The same study participants were also found to be more sensitive and empathetic toward others.

4. HEALTHIER RELATIONSHIPS

Most people are surprised to find out how far a heartfelt “thank you” can go when it comes to strengthening their platonic and romantic relationships. Writing down and even verbally expressing how much these individuals mean to you can inspire feelings of gratefulness. More than that, doing so will provide you with something positive to reflect on if these relationships ever take a turn for the worse.

On a side note, a 2015 study published by Gonzaga University revealed that those who routinely express gratitude are far more likely to attract new friends and potential romantic partners than those who do not.

5. BETTER SLEEP

An article published by The Division of Sleep Medicine at Harvard University revealed that adults between the ages of 18 and 64 should aim for at least 7.5 to 8.5 hours of quality sleep each night.

Those who spend a minimum of 10 to 15 minutes writing down the things that they are most thankful for before going to bed are more likely to get the amount of restorative sleep needed for good health, according to a separate study by Applied Psychology: Health and Well-being, a triannual peer-reviewed academic journal.

6. IMPROVED SELF-ESTEEM

If you struggle with low self-esteem, writing down the things that inspire feelings of gratefulness can go a long way toward improving how you feel about yourself. A 2014 study published by the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology revealed that expressing appreciation helped boost low self-esteem and improve game performance among athletes.

7. MORE MENTAL STRENGTH

Along with reducing feelings of anxiety, depression, and other symptoms commonly correlated with mental illness, gratitude-based journaling can increase overall mental strength. This benefit is especially beneficial to those who are trying to overcome trauma.

For example, those who engage in journaling and struggle with PTSD are less impacted by the disorder. For this reason, most mental health professionals will recommend gratitude-based journaling as a coping mechanism for veterans and first responders who are struggling with PTSD after witnessing extremely traumatic events.

8. INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY

There is significant evidence suggesting that taking a moment to evaluate and appreciate the positive things in one’s life can lead to increased productivity. In short, those who engage in gratitude-based journaling are usually more optimistic and less weighed down by negative thoughts and emotions that would otherwise hamper productivity.

9. MORE RESILIENT

Most will agree that it is not always easy to bounce back after being knocked down by life; that said, gratitude-based journaling can go a long way toward making you more resilient. Those who engage in this practice tend to see the bigger picture. In addition, they are less likely to be sidelined by life’s challenges.

10. BETTER DECISION-MAKING SKILLS

Along with the many other benefits associated with gratitude-based journaling, there is also evidence suggesting that the practice can improve decision-making skills. For example, research shows that physicians who feel appreciated by their patients make better diagnoses than those who feel stress. Thus, they construct better care plans than those who feel unappreciated. Perhaps keeping a gratitude journal would be as useful for doctors as their patients.

11. MORE CREATIVITY

For those who enjoy expressing themselves creatively and are struggling with creative stagnation, gratitude-based journaling may be worth considering. According to Positivity, a book written by world-renowned researcher Dr. Barbara Fredrickson, feeling and expressing appreciation helps broaden the mind, allowing ideas to flow more freely.

12. LONGER AND HAPPIER LIFE

Individuals who engage in gratitude-based journaling are often happier and live longer than those who do not. According to University of California professor Robert Emmons, grateful individuals are usually more concerned with staying on top of their health. As such, they are more likely to exercise regularly and consume a healthy, well-balanced diet. And because many have less stress in their lives, they are also less likely to develop chronic health problems. All of these factors help contribute to a longer life expectancy. In terms of happiness, a recent study revealed that individuals who kept gratitude journals were 25 percent happier than those who did not.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON KEEPING A GRATITUDE JOURNAL

In summary, a gratitude journal is not only a great way to chronicle meaningful events in your life. It is also a great way to improve your physical, psychological, and emotional health. If you have never tried it before, consider starting a gratitude journal today.

Why Believing in Fairies Can Improve Your Health (And Happiness)

November 11, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Have you ever had to explain your beliefs to someone who doesn’t understand why you feel the way you do? Sometimes seeing is believing. but for those who believe that fairies can bring them health and happiness, sometimes the opposite is true; believing is seeing. Allan Turner of the University of Edinburgh, Scotland writes the following about fairy faith:

“In all societies, it is a natural characteristic of the human mind that it seeks to place life experiences within the framework of knowledge and beliefs to which it has been exposed. Many of the descriptions of fairies’ interventions should be viewed in the context of an age and cultural setting which predated explanatory scientific thinking.”

Faith is the act of believing in something that you don’t necessarily have evidence to support. Many people feel strongly that these supernatural beings either do or do not exist. Those who do follow the spiritual practice of Fairy Faith.

Have you seen a fairy or experienced fairy energy?

Experiencing fairy faith is an alternative belief system that can have a positive impact on your life rather than make you question whether what you believe is really true.

These beings are often called ‘spirits of nature’ and ‘god-like beings’ of older times before organized religions glossed over the stories of mysteries from the tiny ‘indigenous others’ who lived among humans, and sometimes still do.

If you can show others how believing in fairies has made a positive impact on your life, others will be more likely to support you or embrace your beliefs. In her review of Dennis Gaffin’s book, Running with the Fairies: Towards a Transpersonal Anthropology of Religion, Jessica Jernigan says that for Gaffin, “fairies have a great deal in common with spirit guides, power animals, and—yes—guardian angels as they are envisioned and experienced by contemporary seekers.

He is dismissive of writers who conflate fairies with aliens and poltergeists, but his own description of “mystical Fairy Faith” could apply to innumerable modern belief systems.

Why Believing In Fairies Can Improve Your Health (And Happiness)

People who believe in fairies believe that these mystical beings have the power to either help or harm others.

In fact, they most often think of these magical creatures as mischievous children. Will they play a prank or will they bring you health and happiness if you give them something in return?

Indeed, most believers think that they must please the fairies or keep them happy with offerings. Some of these offerings include leaving out milk or food in a stone hollow outside in places that a fairy might be found, like in a mossy garden area.

Healing stones, amulets, and silver water are all folkloric healing methods associated with fairy healing stories. These healing items are found in places where spontaneous healing once occurred, and the stone or amulet taken from the site is thought hold absorbed healing energy that others in the community may be able to use.

Finally, fairy faith includes a serpent stone. A serpent stone is a stone with a hole in the middle, which is believed to have healing properties. The stone is placed in water and the water is then poured over or sprinkled on the sick person. Believers may utilize this same method for healing using silver coins.

In short, Fairy Faith is a spiritual way of living that many people enjoy. They take comfort in knowing that these beings guide them and protect them. And that stalwart belief carries them through the hardest times of their life journey.

How to find and attract fairies into your life

So perhaps you, too, want to seek a fairy now. But where do you find one of these creatures who can guide you on your life path and help you heal your soul?

How to find a fairy

These beings like to visit places that already feel happy and loving. Look for them at the edge of a playground near trees, flowers, or lush plants. In particular, they love the bright colors of nature, so look near brightly-colored flowers or blooming trees.

Finding something sparkly, something unusual, like a stone that seems out of place, or a piece of trash that looks old, like a 1950’s soda pop bottle cap signifies that a fairy might be nearby. In the evening, they will gather around stringed lights in the garden, attracted to the soft glow.

And so does the gentle sound of a stream, fountain, or gentle raindrops. Every fairy likes to connect with all aspects of nature.

In addition, look for other winged creatures. The little fairy likes to keep company with hummingbirds, dragonflies, and butterflies, in particular.

Stop and listen for the presence of a fairy. They are quiet beings. But they alert their believers by sound. Have you ever heard the melody of a wind chime on a day without a breeze? That might have been a fairy attempting to communicate with you.

What to offer a fairy

If you find a space where you suspect them of being, leave an offering of a pretty bead, a smooth pebble, or something equally small but fanciful and lovely.

These creatures also have a sweet tooth and enjoy the goodness of berries and fruits. However, they won’t eat any non-organic foods as the pesticides and chemicals may harm them, too! Homebaked treats, baked with organic ingredients, will also please these beings.

Finally, if you want to offer them a thimble filled with a drink, they will appreciate your kind gesture. Their favorite beverages are milk, mead, and ale–organic, of course!

Asking a fairy for intervention or assistance

Try this method to ask one of these beings for its help.

Say in a whisper, “Fairies, if you are here, I believe in you and I need help.” Then, ask what you would like the fairy to help you with.

For example, you might want healing and a feeling of well-being. Say “I ask that you be present in my life and help heal what is sick in me. Help me to be as happy and delighted with life as a fairy.”

How do you know if a fairy will grant your request? Keep your eyes wide open. Look for signs of butterflies, birds, dragonflies, and other winged creatures in your life and be open to the guidance that you receive from the messages that they bring you.

Final Thoughts on Fairy Faith

Whether or not you believe in Fairy Faith, yourself, it offers a source of comfort to its followers. And maybe fairy believes aren’t that far off-base.

Maybe the eyeglasses you misplace so often or other mysterious things you deal with each day aren’t forgetfulness. Perhaps it is the mischievous work of fairies letting you know they are watching over you. Isn’t that a nice thought?

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

5 Ways To Show Your Partner You’re Falling in Love

November 10, 2019 by Power of Positivity

“I love you” is undoubtedly one of the most powerful phrases in the English language. But when you’re in a relatively new relationship, you might not want to throw the words out there too soon. So if you want to show your new partner how you feel without proclaiming your love too early on, what can you do?

And, you might also be resistant to saying those three sweet words for other reasons, as well. Perhaps you feel fear that your partner doesn’t reciprocate–yet. Or, maybe you feel that the term is overstating those newly blossoming feelings that are unfolding inside of you.

Regardless of your reasons for choosing not to speak the L-word out loud, you can use sweet, intimate gestures to express your genuine feelings and also build a stronger bond.

Here are 5 ways you can show your partner you’re in love without using the words

1. Build a strong friendship.

Good relationships don’t just happen overnight. They require mutual love, trust, and respect. Creating a strong foundation as friends, who share everything, will enhance sexual pleasures at a later time in your union. The act of allowing and acceptance is a beautiful bond in human sexuality. Feeling safe is a cornerstone of a strong love relationship. That’s because only you can only feel genuine happiness when you know your partner has your back and your best intentions at heart.

This leads to the release of the love hormone called oxytocin. Oxytocin creates a sense of happiness and well-being. This hormone is associated with empathy and trust, therefore releasing even more feelings of love and security in a relationship. Friends don’t require sex. They require acknowledgment, understanding and mutual admiration. You cultivate love through the depth of a strong friendship.

2. Connect through food.

There is something especially touching when someone you love cooks for you. To have a meal prepared with love is a true act of love. Women love men who cook. And it is said that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. Even if you cannot cook, just picking out a meal at a restaurant and enjoying the moment together is enough to feel good. Food connects us through cultures, heritage, and social events. We need it for health and fueling our bodies.

Try taking a cooking class together. Make dessert for one another. Turn off all phones, get a glass of wine, and enjoy the culinary arts. The simple act of feeding stimulates conversation and will increase your bond.

“Food is symbolic to love when words are inadequate.” ~Dr. Alan D. Wolfelt

3. Find hobbies and activities to do together.

Share a bucket list of things you want to do with each other. Finding ways to interact outside of the bedroom is romantic. You can hike in the rain, chase a sunset, or take an art class in town. Make time to do the things that you like to do alone and share them with your partner. Teach each other new things. Workout together. Read to one another. Have playtime and a picnic in the park. Go to a baseball game. Go roller skating and return to places that you enjoyed in your youth.

Being silly and laughing with each other is precious. Sharing these parts of yourself enhances your emotional connection.

4. Be vulnerable and open up about your dreams and fears.

Research professor for the University of Houston, Dr. Brene Brown, has dedicated the past thirteen years to researching vulnerability, courage, and shame. She states the following:

“Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.”

Being able to mentally bond is a huge release to our emotional and physical bodies. Ask questions about the past and present.

Get to know each other by breaking down the barriers of embarrassment and shame. Be courageous with one another about those things that scare you. To fully give of yourself to another requires the expansion of vulnerability. It forces you to put down your walls and give all of yourself.

5. Be affectionate.

Cuddling, kissing, snuggling and hugging are all forms of physical connections that are needed in relationships. There are also ways of mentally stimulating your partner with a love letter, a handmade note, or just a post-it note on a mirror. Sending a sweet playful text during the day creates a feeling of sentimental devotion.

Intimate physical gestures are a powerful way to communicate your feelings. A back massage, a nice foot rub, or even the stroking of your partner’s arm while watching television is enough to send the message that you are in love, loud and clear.

We feel loved when we are touched. We feel wanted when we receive kind words of encouragement from a partner. Physical affection is a point of contact that enhances emotional, spiritual and physical bonds between you and your partner.

Final Thoughts on Showing Love Without Using the Words “I love you“

A new romance needs care and attention. Even if you feel like you are already in love, your timing for dropping the L-word needs careful handling. Saying it too soon, before your partner wholly reciprocates, or in the wrong time and place, can make for an awkward situation.

Instead, you can show your partner that you are feeling love for them without placing yourself in that position.

Moreover, you’ll be able to tell sooner than later how your partner feels in return. Take notice of their response. Whether or not your partner shies away from your efforts or responds in kind offers you a glimpse into his or her heart. The response you receive could give you the confirmation you want–that your partner, too, is falling in love.

5 Ways to Build Good Karma (and Erase Karmic Debt)

November 10, 2019 by Power of Positivity

To receive all the abundance you can from the Universe, you need to have good Karma. Once you wipe out your Karmic Debt, you will begin to experience the power of these blessings. And then, your entire life can change for the better.

You’ll grow spiritually as well as gain the confidence to makes strides forward in your personal relationships, career, and finances. It’s one of the most unforgettable experiences anyone can ever encounter. The experience is transformative.

But for now, you might be wondering…

“What is Karma, precisely, and how the heck do I get in on that action?”

Today, we’ll share a brief overview of the Karmic principles and how you can improve your Karma to improve your life.

What is Karma?

Karma dates back to ancient texts of Buddhism and Hinduism. The concept states that your actions create energies–negative or positive. And, those energies will come home to roost, eventually. It’s a series of cause-and-effect patterns that you experience throughout this life. Moreover, it carries forward with you as you exit this body and start your next journey.

In short, you create bad karma or karmic debt if you do wrong or negative things. Here’s an everyday example. You are short-tempered with your spouse and children, day in and day out. That creates a negative atmosphere in the household. Over time, that energy returns to you and erodes your relationships and your happiness with your own family.

On the other hand, if you do kind things for people, you’ll receive positive energy in return. So, let’s use our previous example. Imagine you manage relationships in your life with kindness, supportive words, and patience. You’ll receive positive energy that strengthens your familial bonds and creates a happier home.

Karmic Debt

When your negative energy outweighs your positive energies, you begin to accrue Karmic Debt. You must correct these wrongs to reverse the bad karma you create.

Make no mistake. We are all perfectly imperfect human beings. Everyone messes up at one point or another and creates karmic debt. However, you can wipe that debt clean. But to do so, you must own up to the error of your ways and begin creating positive energy to outweigh the poor energy of those transgressions.

Here are five ways to build good karma (so you can wipe out the karmic debt)

1. Focus on the positive

When you remember doing good for the world creates beneficial blessings, it becomes simple to see the reason to focus on the positive. At all times, in all ways, you’re either creating positive or negative energy. This energy contributes to the collective vibration of the Earth and, ultimately the fate of humankind. The more you focus on positive and loving thoughts, words, and actions, the better chance we all have to make it on this beautiful little marble space.

Choose to think, speak, and do positive actions as soon as you wake up. Then, keep your power of positivity strong throughout the day and into the next! It becomes contagious, and you’ll enjoy seeing the smiles you’re putting on the faces of everyone you encounter.

2. Help someone in need (goes far towards erasing Karmic Debt)

Honor someone in need by filling a request for compassion. Everyone wants it, and no one wants to be without it. There have been times in our life, and also probably times in yours, where you wished someone would give you a call, a kind word, or even a hug when you needed it most.

A generous spirit fills gaps and fixes cracks where pieces of our hearts have been torn away. Much like the Japanese art of Kintsugi, sharing this dash of positivity when someone needs it the most makes the spirit stronger and more appreciated than before.

If you feel you can help someone reach a goal, support their passion, or shine some light in their direction when they need it most, don’t hesitate to do so.

3. Broaden your perspective

So much negative energy is created today only because of a narrow view. How can we know where to direct our loving energy if we walk through life with blinders on?

As the female artist group, En Vogue once stated, “Free your mind, and the rest will follow.” Turning a blind eye to another person due to their color, race, religion, spiritual views, or innocent private habits only creates a void in their hearts and yours.

There is an equal chance for loving energy to fill the void. So give it a chance it deserves by broadening your perspective of the world around you. Through a broader perspective, you’re creating a ripple effect of positive, loving energy that can have exponential results.

Decide to learn about someone’s culture. Show compassion and kindness for their lot in life. Ask about their history, family, or what makes them most proud. Through understanding each other more, we can create world peace, true freedom, and benefit from many other windfalls of an expanded perspective.

4. Get in touch with nature

Nature is a sanctuary of its very own, overflowing with good karmic energy. When you get out into the great outdoors, you connect with the ever-loving positive energy that radiates from the earth. Stop and take a moment to lay down and feel the ground’s warmth. Listen to the sound of the wind whispering through your surroundings.

You’ll feel your positive energy restored as the good karma you create fills your soul. Thus, you’ll recharge your power and be able to continue spreading joy in the Universe.

As you get in touch with nature, the buzzing of your mind stops and allows you to tap back into a positive thinking mindset without resistance.

5. Love yourself as well as others

Last but not least, taking care of yourself–and loving yourself–is a must for creating good karma. After all, you cannot look after others if you haven’t infused yourself with the energy you need to take care of others.

Only when you give yourself the love you deserve can you make love for the rest of the world. Every ounce of loving energy you distribute comes from within, and you’ve got to ensure your wellspring is overflowing.

Final Thoughts: It’s Never Too Late to Build Karma and Erase Karmic Debt

Regardless of the mistakes that you might have made, it’s not too late to start to reverse the downward spiral of bad karma. The actions shared here are actionable, easy to implement, and won’t cost you a penny. As the famous athletic brand advises, you have to do it.

Perhaps the flower children of the 1960s weren’t too far off with their mantra of “Peace and Love.” They knew about Karma, the loving energy we can each generate to help heal the world. Take time today to erase your Karmic Debt and build better Karma. You’ll receive karmic blessings for yourself, for others, and for the world.

7 Habits to Have A Happier Work Week

November 9, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Are you headed into a new work week excited about new possibilities that lie ahead? Or, do you play your week by rote, dreading the sameness of your daily routine? Instead of moping about the week ahead (we’ve all got to pay our bills), shift your focus. Kick-off your week with new weekly habits that will help you start your week off right.

“Blue Monday”

Did you know that some workers in Ireland receive a full, paid day off for “Blue Monday?”

For the Irish, Blue Monday is the term given to a day in January, a day allegedly “proven” to be the most depressing of the year.

While Blue Monday’s scientific rationale has mostly been exposed, most of us will attest to feeling a bit down come Monday morning.

51 percent

That’s the proportion of full-time U.S. workers “disengaged” at work.

In other words, more than half of Americans do not connect with their work and are more likely to do the bare minimum as a result.

Sixteen percent of workers are “actively disengaged.” This group despises their work, gripes to coworkers, and further demoralizes their already burnt out colleagues.

So, two-thirds of American workers are disengaged or actively disengaged at work, according to recent polls. Not good.

Workers in other countries tend to be dissatisfied with their jobs, as well. The only exception, per a survey conducted by Fast Company, is Canada – where a whopping 64 percent of people enjoy their work!

“We suppose this survey of 8,000 workers across the United States, Canada, India, and Europe makes it somewhat official: America is number one! Number one in the percentage of employees who hate their jobs, that is.” ~ Sydney Brownstone, Fast Company

Workplace Stress

According to The American Institute of Stress (AIS), workplace stress has reached epidemic proportions.

Here are a couple of noteworthy discoveries:

– Americans are working longer and harder. In fact, Americans work more hours per week than any other labor force of any other industrialized nation. We face long hours, mandatory overtime, and some even have 6-day work weeks.

– Wages are stagnant. Unless you happen to be on the executive team of some mega-company, the chances are that your raise (if any) is barely enough to cover the cost of inflation.

– We’re ditching work more often. In a survey of 800,000 workers in 300 companies, the number of employees calling in sick due to stress has tripled.

How Does that Workplace Stress Break Down?

An AIS survey shows the following triggers cause the stress that American workers are feeling. Of the employees that AIS polled, here’s the break down:

46 percent report dealing with a too-heavy workload and too long of a work week.
28 percent express that they have “people issues,” or concerns about getting along with co-workers
20 percent feel the struggle of achieving a balance between their home life and career
6 percent fear for their job security.

More bad news for our workforce

Perhaps more alarming are the trends towards violence in the workplace. Additional questions asked by AIS revealed some frightening things that are happening, including:

29 percent admitted they had yelled at a co-worker.
42 percent say that verbal abuse among employees is commonplace
10 percent reported that their workplace was the scene of physical violence
65 percent express that people have difficulty getting along due to increased demands and workload
14 percent shared that an employee caused damage to equipment due to rage.

The AIS report finishes with a dire message that workplaces in the United States suffer the highest violent crime rate in the industrialized world. Furthermore, about twenty employees are murdered each week at work.

Additionally, roughly 18,000 physical and sexual assaults happen at work weekly. That tallies up to almost 1 million annually.

The trend is horrifying. It’s no wonder we are less than enthusiastic about heading off to work on Monday.

Despite all the bad news, there are things you can do to help you make reporting to the office less hectic from day today.

7 Weekly Habits To Help Start Your Work Week Off Right

Fortunately, there are a few things we can do to help get our work (and our week) started off right! While these seven weekly habits may take a bit of time and effort to integrate into our lives, they can be tremendously beneficial for your peace of mind.

1. Create a morning routine

Too many of us wait until the last second to “get going” in the early hours. We’ll repeatedly hit the snooze button only to stumble out of bed anyway.

According to multiple papers, waking up just a few minutes earlier can benefit your mental and physical well-being. Use this extra time each morning to read, spend time with the family, or go for a brisk walk.

2. Set a small weekly goal

Take a few minutes on Monday morning to set a personal goal for the upcoming work week– one that is both challenging and fulfilling. The goal here is to give yourself a motivating incentive, something on which you can focus your time and energy outside of work.

3. Practice an attitude of gratitude

Writing out a few things that you’re thankful for may sound corny, but studies show it can be a powerful exercise.

Practicing your newfound attitude of gratitude by making a list, saying “Thank You,” keeping a journal, creating a “like list,” or another token expression of thanks does the following:

Improves sleep
Boosts self-esteem
Enhances empathy
Improves mental and physical health
Strengthens resilience.

4. Be inspired

The simple fact is that we all need to be inspired from time-to-time. While life is inevitably depressing at times, plenty of people out there trying to make the world a better place.

Watch a TED talk, read an inspiring article or book, or learn something new. Make it a habit of filling your inspiration tank up throughout the work week. This practice also is a way to give yourself something for which to look forward.

5. Pay it forward

If you’ve ever done something sweet for a complete stranger, you understand the power of selflessness.

Here is an example. Are you picking up coffee on the way to work? Buy a cup for the guy or gal behind you in line. Do you have an elderly neighbor who struggles with food insecurity? Drop off a hot meal and tell them you “made too much” to save their pride.

Make it a point to pay it forward on occasion. Doing nice things for others puts the drudgery of the work week into perspective for you.

6. Plan your week

Etching out a weekly plan on a Sunday evening is a powerful stress-reducer.

Subconsciously, we know that the next five-plus days are going to be stressful. Do yourself a favor and plan your week on a Sunday evening, when you have the time and space to concentrate.

You’ll sleep more peacefully and be more focused come Monday morning.

7. Meditate

Of course, no “good habits” list would be complete without meditation. The science on this mindful practice is overwhelming, but here are a few significant benefits:

Less stress
Better brain function
Improved mood
More productivity
Even more gratitude

Final Thoughts: Move Into the Next Work Week with New Daily Habits

You don’t need to adopt all of these daily habits at one time to benefit from them. In fact, you may pick and choose those which apply to you. You have nothing to lose for trying. And, you might just have an improvement in your mindset to help you conquer the work week.

5 Best Exercises for Fast, Permanent Weight Loss

November 9, 2019 by Power of Positivity

Have you ever done the hard work of weight loss only to have the number on the scale creep right back up to where you started? Losing weight can be one of the most rewarding things to go through. It can also be one of the most frustrating. If you’ve made it to the other side of a slim-down, then you definitely don’t want to backslide and un-do your hard work.

Real Talk About What’s On Your Plate

Ok, it is time for some real talk. They say that abs are made in the kitchen. That applies to every other part of your body as well.

You can work out like a relentless gym robot. If you eat unhealthy food, then it doesn’t matter. You’re setting yourself up for failure.

It’s not as simple as ‘calories in vs. calories out’ either. You’ve got to eat the right fresh, healthy foods to fuel your workouts and support your healthy weight. It doesn’t take a flashy trend diet to get the job done. Harvard Health recommends a very common-sense approach as the best diet for weight loss:

Eat lots of fresh vegetables
Choose nutrient-dense whole foods
Limit processed foods
Limit sugar
Reduce trans fats
Limit refined carbohydrates

You don’t have to go crazy with a fad diet. Make healthy eating a lifestyle, not a diet, and you’ll have a much easier time losing weight and keeping it off.

Let’s Get Sweaty

There’s some truth to the notion that the best exercise is the one you’ll actually do regularly. Keep that in mind. Incorporate some of these ultra-effective moves, but don’t forget to have fun while you work out!

Now, let’s get into the best moves to make that weight get gone.

1. Walking

Walking is one of the most versatile exercises around. Don’t believe us? Consider this:

You can do it indoors or outdoors.
You can ramp up the intensity with varied terrain or inclines, or take it easy and slow.
Try a walk on a treadmill, outdoors on a track, on a sidewalk, a trail, or around your neighborhood.
Walking is one of the only forms of exercise that you can do your entire life.

You get the idea. Walking is a low-impact activity. That means it’s easy on the joints. That’s important for injury prevention and longevity. Studies prove that walking for about an hour 3 times per week can significantly reduce body fat and help you lose weight. Once the weight comes off, you can easily keep up your walking routine.

2. Circuit Training

Circuit training goes by many names. Some types of circuit training you may have heard of are:

Interval training
Tabata cycles
Timed circuits

The overall idea of circuit training is that you cycle through sets of several different exercises and/or intensities with very little rest in between. This is one of the best options for weight loss because you can change it up. Here are some examples…

30 Minute Cardio Circuit

You can do this circuit on any cardio machine or jogging or cycling:

5 minute warm-up
2 minutes at 60% effort
2 minutes at 90% effort
1 minute recovery
2 minutes at 90% effort
1 minute recovery
2 minutes at 90% effort
1 minute recovery
2 minutes at 90% effort
1 minute recovery
2 minutes at 90% effort
1 minute recovery
2 minutes at 90% effort
1 minute recovery
5 minute cool-down

30 Minute Strength Training Circuit

Do this circuit after a 5-10 minute warm-up. Go through three cycles of the exercises, doing each move for 60 seconds followed by 20 seconds of rest between exercises and 30 seconds between each set. Follow the circuit with a 5-10 minute cool down.

Squats
Push-Ups
Lunges
Burpees
Crunches

Being able to mix up your workouts is critical for successful weight loss and maintenance. It will keep your body challenged and keep your mind engaged. To successfully lose that weight and keep it off you’ve got to stay motivated and interested in your exercise.

Using circuit training as a template you can mix and match various activities to keep it fresh and challenge your body in new ways when the old exercises are no longer a challenge.

3. Lifting Weights

Lifting weights or “strength training” is very important for weight loss and weight management. Weight lifting strengthens your bones and muscles. You’ll also get your heart-pumping and support your cardiovascular health when you lift weights.

Strength training improves the efficiency of your metabolism. That’s your body’s ability to create energy from the food that you eat. In a nutshell, that means that you burn calories while you work out and for hours afterward. As you can imagine, this is like a secret weapon when it comes to weight loss.

Another important thing about lifting weights is that you can continue progressing as you get stronger and more fit. You can only run or cycle so fast, even at your most fit. With strength training, however, you can continue lifting heavier as you gain strength.

Finally, strength training can help you maintain muscle mass. Muscle burns fat and makes it possible for you to stay active as you age. Maintaining weight loss requires you to be able to stay active as you age. Having plenty of muscle can keep you active as you get up in years.

4. Plyometrics

Plyometrics are exercises that require fast, explosive movements. Some cool plyometric exercises are:

Burpees
Box Jumps
Jump Squats
Plyo Push-Ups
Jumping Rope
Skipping
Jumping Jacks

Plyometric exercises are quick and high-intensity. You’ll find that 60-90 seconds of any plyo move will have you sweating and out of breath.

If you’re pressed for time, then plyometric exercises can give you a highly effective workout in a jiffy. For many people, time is the biggest obstacle to their weight loss. Plyometrics can be squeezed into your day, and just 5 or 10 minutes can give you a serious sweat session.

The one drawback of plyometrics is that they’re not suited for people with existing injuries or who have joint issues. If you have joint issues, injuries, or arthritis, then skip the plyo moves and go for a low-impact alternative.

5. Cycling

Cycling is another fantastic low-impact exercise that’s incredibly versatile. You can bike in the gym or spin class, or ride outdoors. You can go road biking or mountain biking. Indeed, you can even bike for transportation! Imagine swapping your daily commute for a nice bike ride. Biking for transportation is just as effective for weight loss as biking just for exercise.

The various ways you can enjoy biking and its reputation as a joint-friendly activity makes it perfect for long-term fitness and weight management.

There are also many different types of bikes that you can ride. Choose a bike based on your interests and comfort level. Your run of the mill stationary bike is just one option. You can ride a road bike outside or on a trainer (a machine that converts a regular bicycle into a stationary bike). Mountain bikes are great for off-road riding. Cruisers and beach bikes are super comfortable for those who prefer a slow ride. There are even adult tricycles for you to get around on.

Because of the diversity and low impact of cycling, you can do it your entire life. Use biking as a form of cardiovascular exercise, click into a harder gear for some extra resistance to strengthen your legs, and keep on rolling long-term.

Final Thoughts on Embracing Exercise to Keep Off Excess Pounds

Losing weight and keeping the weight off means that you have to start an effective fitness habit and stick with it. Longevity and a wide assortment of options to keep your mind and body stimulated are the keys to your weight loss journey.

These 5 exercises can help you get fit and stay that way. You’ll notice that none of these exercises require a gym. If you like the gym atmosphere, then you can do these activities at your favorite fitness centers. If you prefer working out at home or outdoors, then you can take any of these moves wherever you want to go.

Make sure that you do something you like and something you can get better at over time. Walk or bike further and faster. Lift heavier. Take less rest between your circuit sets. Keep on challenging yourself and you’ll find that your hard-earned fit physique will stick around for the long haul.

Now, let’s go work out!

11 Signs Your Partner Is Falling in Love

November 9, 2019 by Power of Positivity

When you first begin dating someone, there’s a feeling of newness. You spend a few weeks delighting in their every glance and hang on their every word. As you get to know that special someone better, one of two things can happen. You either decide they’re not your forever match or you fall head over heels in love. But how can you be certain that your newfound partner reciprocates those growing feelings?

Not everyone expresses–or receives–love in the same language. While clear and honest communication is the best way to root out the answer, that can be an awkward conversation–especially early in the relationship.

Instead of leaving you playing a guessing game, look for 11 universal signs that someone your partner is falling in love with you, too.

Here Are 11 Signs Your Partner Is Falling in Love With You

1. They show interest in your life and well-being

You’ll be able to tell that your partner cares about you as a whole person and not just for a casual dinner and movie when they show genuine interest in your life, opinions, thoughts, and ideas.

If there’s something you’re extremely passionate about, your partner should take an interest in it, even if all they do is listen to you ramble on.

On the other hand, if they are not interested in you on a deep, emotional level, they will lack an interest in the mundane parts of your everyday life. Authentic interest shows that they care.

2. They take care of you when you’re sick

Someone who is just dating you casually has no interest in taking care of us when we’re not feeling well. On the other hand, a partner who is willing to see you at your snot-nosed worst is in it for the long haul. They’ll love you even when you’re not looking your best, and they only care about nursing you back to health. As relationship expert Margaret Paul rightly notes,

“Rather than feeling put upon when your partner needs something from you, you receive joy in being able to give to and support your partner in many ways.”

So the partner who helps you through sickness and has seen you at your worst–and stil decides to stick around–is a real keeper!

3. They want to talk to you and show they’re interested

Initiating conversations is one way that human beings show that they’re interested in what one another has to say. If your partner doesn’t seem interested in engaging in open discussions with you, and you find that you’re always reaching out to them, they may not be interested in the things you have to say.

However, when you find that you and your partner are reaching out to each other in equal amounts, it’s most likely love. Therefore, be aware of whether your partner asks questions to spark conversations. If they do, they love continuing to learn more about you and are probably falling in love.

4. They’re always thinking about you if they’re falling in love

Whether or not this is true, it can seem like it when your partner is really in love. You may find that your partner brings you gifts or sends you flowers, or does something as simple as cooking your favorite meal.

These little gestures are not uncommon during casual relationships. However, when they invest time and energy into surprising you for no special reason, that person is wearing their heart on their sleeve. They are falling in love with you.

5. They want your friends and family to like them

And they make an effort at it, too! People who are only interested in a casual fling or short-term relationship don’t much if you meet their parents. In fact, they might go out of their way to dodge that uncomfortable first meeting and family speculation.

However, when true love is blooming, your partner will definitely want your friends and family to think highly of them. Plus, they’ll put in the extra effort that it takes to make the first meeting a smooth one.

6. They brag about you to their friends

In fact, they probably can’t seem to talk about anything else. Someone who is only interested in a casual relationship might do this too. But the difference might be that they just want to show you off like eye candy.

However, when your partner is falling in love, they’re going to want their friends to know just how much they care about you. And, they’ll take pride in your accomplishments and share them willingly with their circle of friends.

7. They do things they normally wouldn’t do

Maybe your partner really isn’t into sports, or exercise, or attending the ballet with you. But they do those activities with you because you like them. They really put in the effort to stay connected with you and to make you feel like your hobbies are worthwhile.

So even if they don’t especially want to catch the latest chick flick, they’ll still buy tickets for two, stand in line for popcorn, and hand you a tissue during those tear-jerking scenes in that movie.

8. They never put you in an uncomfortable position

Your partner will make extra sure never to pressure you into anything that you don’t want to do. They understand and respect your boundaries, and make an effort to communicate with you to make sure that they know where those boundaries lie.

Someone who is falling in love with you will respect you. They would never pressure you into doing something that makes you feel out of place or uncomfortable.

9. They’re committed to you if they are falling in love

Someone who is only interested in a fling probably shies away from any talk of commitment. However, you know that your partner is the real deal when commitment doesn’t scare them, not even a little. They’re ready to be committed to you and are proud to do so. They’re not pining after other people or ex-partners. You’re enough for them.

10. They’re always truthful and aren’t afraid to share everything

This is a sign of both trust and respect. If your partner isn’t afraid to tell you the truth about everything, then it’s a sign that they’re really with you out of love. They most likely won’t lie to you about big things or little things, and they won’t try to placate you. Someone who is only with you for the short-term may often use lies to manipulate you. But you’ll never feel manipulated when your partner is all in.

11. They always make time to be with you

Even if they have a busy day at work or a lot of projects coming up, your partner will always make the time to see you, because you’re just as important as all the other things going on in their life. They’re serious about you when they arranged their schedule to make sure the two of you have time to connect.

Final Thoughts on Discerning Whether or Not Your Partner Is Falling in Love

These tell-tale signs can help separate the people who are genuine about their love for you and the people who only want to date you casually. Whether you’re a man or a woman, your partner should always make you feel safe and loved. You always deserve to have someone in your corner who wants to be with you for you.

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

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!