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10 Early Bipolar Disorder Symptoms To Never Ignore

October 27, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Bipolar disorder, previously known as manic-depressive disorder, is a serious condition that is often accompanied by self-harm and can even lead to suicide in severe cases. Bipolar is a mental illness which can cause dramatic shifts in a person’s mood and behaviors. It is characterized by periods of depression as well as elevated moods–known as mania–that could each last a week or more at a time.

Regarding the position of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) on bipolar, “The condition affects men and women equally, with about 2.6% of the U.S. population diagnosed with bipolar disorder and nearly 83% of cases classified as severe.”

Because bipolar comes with many risk factors, including self-harm, it is important to notice early warning signs. The following are the top 10 bipolar disorder symptoms to never ignore. The earlier these symptoms are recognized, the more quickly the condition can be diagnosed by a doctor and treated properly to ensure a healthy life.

1. Depression

Depression is one of the leading causes of self-harm and suicidal ideation in bipolar patients. It is marked by low moods, low energy, lack of interest in usual activities, and loss of appetite or overeating. Bipolar is often mistaken and misdiagnosed as depression, so it is important to watch for other bipolar disorder symptoms as well. As many as 20% of people who tell their doctor they’ve been feeling depressed are actually undiagnosed bipolar.

If you find yourself feeling depressed, try reading through these ten things that can improve mental health.

2. Elevated Mood

The second most common of the bipolar disorder symptoms is mania or elevated mood. To be diagnosed, a person must have experienced at least one episode of mania. Some people with bipolar disorder will have many episodes of mania throughout their life while others may experience them rarely.

In the manic state, a person is more likely to have irrational thoughts and engage in unhealthy behaviors such as overspending, gambling, or drug use. The elevated moods of mania may feel appealing to the person experiencing them, especially after a bout of depression; but it’s important to learn to identify bouts of mania, as they can result in impaired judgment and reckless behavior.

3. Speaking Quickly

A bipolar patient who is in a manic episode can be known to speak very quickly. This usually coincides with erratic thoughts that the person is trying to convey to others, but the individual’s speech is so quick that they are often not understood by others. This is known as “pressured speech” and is the person’s attempt to try to convey their racing thoughts even though their words are not understood by others. It can be easy to tell when a bipolar person is talking fast as the conversation itself will most likely be one-sided.

4. Inflated Self-Esteem

Bipolar individuals often develop an inflated ego and feel like they are better than others. While most people have a moderate and healthy amount of self-esteem, people with bipolar may have an elevated sense of self and feel superior to others. This superior sense of self usually occurs in tandem with a manic phase. As a result, individuals are more likely to engage in social behaviors that would otherwise be overwhelming to them. The person may attempt to be the life of the party or go on a spending spree which may compound their existing anxieties and increase their risk of further manic episodes.

This phase can be difficult for friends and family as the individual may talk down to them or make them feel inferior. However, this phase usually declines into depression and self-loathing, leaving the person to regret the things they said and decisions they made.

5. Erratic Thoughts

While in the manic phase, many people may experience erratic thoughts. While most people are able to focus on a singular train of thought until a task is complete, sufferers of bipolar have difficulty concentrating on one thought for any length of time. Their minds are full of emotions and ideas that they find it hard to deal with. They jump from one topic to another and have trouble keeping one train of thought. During this phase it is hard for the person to speak in coherent sentences, and the individual may have difficulty keeping a conversation going for more than a minute or so.

Often their mind may make connections between subjects where there are none. The individual may also have disturbing thoughts and not understand why. Racing thoughts can be difficult to diagnose as sufferers of bipolar disorder symptoms are often not aware that their thoughts are erratic.

6. Erratic Behavior

With erratic thoughts come erratic behavior. Normal routines are broken when accompanied by erratic thinking, and a person with bipolar can begin to display overindulgent behaviors. These may manifest through excessive consumption of drugs and alcohol, spending beyond their budget on unnecessary extravagances, or hyper-sexual activities such as engaging in affairs or unsafe sex. As a result of these behaviors the individual’s life can begin to break down when a bank account is drained or a relationship is abruptly ended. It is important to watch for any erratic behaviors to determine whether a person in your life may be bipolar. It’s important to remember that only a doctor can diagnose such symptoms, but spotting symptoms early can assist with finding treatment options while the condition is still manageable.

7. Substance Abuse

People with bipolar have a disproportionately higher chance of suffering from substance abuse problems. If they are not on medications prescribed to help their bipolar disorder symptoms they will use drugs and alcohol as a way to self-medicate.

During a manic phase, drugs and alcohol can be used to ease the symptoms of racing thoughts or inability to sleep. A bipolar person may use drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their sad feelings or even as a way to escape self-harm or suicidal thoughts.

Unfortunately, these self-medicating measures tend to backfire as drugs and alcohol can often increase the feelings of mania or depression which can lead to reckless behavior or suicidal thoughts. Because of this, it is best to avoid drugs and alcohol or to use them in moderation if you have been diagnosed as bipolar.

8. Suicidal Thoughts

Because bipolar is often accompanied by depression, there is always the risk of suicidal thoughts. People in the depression phase of bipolar disorder often have thoughts of ending their lives. Even if the individual is properly diagnosed and on medication and regular therapy, suicidal thoughts are something that should be taken very seriously, as suicide is not uncommon for bipolar sufferers.

9. Overspending

Rational thought is often pushed aside during manic phases, and this can lead to reckless behaviors. Overspending, sometimes referred to as “retail therapy,” occurs with many people who exhibit bipolar tendencies. The erratic thoughts of a person in bipolar mania may prohibit them from recognizing that they are spending more money than they should. Overspending often leads to a drained savings account or excessive debt which can in turn trigger a sense of guilt for causing the situation in the first place.

10. Guilt

The final symptom to look for in a bipolar person is guilt. Because mania can lead to erratic thinking and behavior such as overspending, the individual often ends their period of mania with a sense of guilt toward how they treated themselves and others.

This sense of guilt is the catalyst for mania transitioning into depression. Often the feelings of guilt toward how the bipolar person treated someone else will lead to guilt which will lead to depression and before you know it, the person is deep into a depressive phase of their bipolar disorder.

With medication and therapy, the feelings of mania and depression can be reduced, meaning that the feeling of guilt will be less likely to occur as the mania will recur with less frequency. This may also diminish the risk of depressive episodes.

Final Thoughts

It is important to remember that sufferers of bipolar often have little or no control over their emotions. It can be frustrating to engage with a loved one who is bipolar, but they do not choose to have their mood swings and can often be as frustrated with themselves as any friend or family member could be. Here are ten common myth about bipolar disorder to help you get an understanding of many of the misconceptions around mental health issues.

It’s important to remember that despite the difficulty the symptoms may cause, bipolar is manageable. With proper lifestyle changes, regular therapy, and a strict diet and medication regimen most people are capable of living a healthy lifestyle with bipolar. Therapy can help to manage with erratic behaviors while doctor’s visits and medication are known to help with the drastic mood swings of the disorder.

If you believe that you or a loved one may be bipolar it is important to make an appointment with a mental health professional to receive a proper diagnosis. But remember that the diagnosis does not mean the end of the world. It means that a person will have to take extra care in their life.

10 Stories About People Who Weren’t Prepared For What Was About to Happen

October 27, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Life doesn’t come with an instruction manual or a blueprint. We just have to learn as we go and do the best we can. Though a lot of negative things happen in life, we want to bring you a few positive and/or funny stories about people who got a pleasant surprise by life.

“To expect the unexpected shows a thoroughly modern intellect.” – Oscar Wilde

The quote above doesn’t mean that people should always be on guard in case something happens; however, in general, it’s best to expect the unexpected so that you’re not taken by surprise. Nonetheless, we know that things happen all the time that people aren’t prepared for, because life doesn’t exactly come with a crystal ball that accurately predicts the future.

Fortunately, this sometimes means we can be surprised by joy when the unexpected takes our breath away. And other times, we can simply be shocked by the reactions or interactions between people.

10 Stories About Unexpected Things Happening to People

It Could Have Been Worse

“I was hitchhiking to a neighboring town because there were no buses. A car stops, the driver says that he doesn’t need money from me as there is always a different way to pay. I calmly agree, take my purse and say, ‘Just let me get the protection.’ I take an Avar dagger that I was carrying as a present for my friend. The man goes pale and says, ‘I mean that sometimes it’s nice to do something free of charge…’ I totally agree with him. It’s great that there are so many good people around!”

This could’ve been a bad experience, and the woman was right to be prepared in case things went south. However, there are good people still out there who are willing to help you.

Kiss from a Stranger

“When I was learning the driving rules, there was this rule: if the turn signals are broken, the driver should put their arm through the window and show the direction of movement to other drivers. I had a chance to use this rule [as] I was going to turn left on a busy road. I put my left arm through the window, as the rule says, and then a motorcyclist caught up with me (I didn’t notice him at first), kissed my hand and left...”

True Love Stories

“Early on a Sunday morning, my husband rushed into the room, yelling that we had to pack and leave urgently. I panicked [but] I didn’t ask any questions, I put my clothes on and we got on a train. I didn’t know what was going on. But I saw that my husband was happy, so I was sure that nothing bad had happened.

Two hours later, we got off the train at a small station near the sea and my husband took me straight to an incredibly beautiful beach. He opened a bottle of wine and a pack of cheese. And then he said that it was time to go. He took me to a small local movie theater. We were the only ones in the movie theater so we spent the whole time kissing as if we’d just met … We went to a restaurant after that, ate dinner, and in the evening, we took a train back home. It was so unusual that I think it was the best day of my life.”

This story comes from a Quora user named Bhavneet Kaur:

“This is a sweet unexpected experience.

I was all dolled-up. Ready to attend my cousin’s wedding, I got a new dress stitched for the occasion. I liked the dress but was a bit nervous about how I would look in it. I conquered all my insecurities and wore the dress.

All ready, we left in an auto rickshaw. Close to our destination, there was a traffic jam. Our auto was stuck. A small girl passed by the rickshaw. She must be around 10-11 years old. She peeped into the rickshaw and said, “Didi, tu iss dress mein bahut achi lagri hai.” (You look pretty in this dress).

And went away.

I couldn’t stop smiling. I was flattered.

Such an unexpected event. Made me feel special :)”

You hear stories about people receiving random compliments all the time, and they just prove that good, kind people do indeed exist in the world!

Seeing is Believing

“When I was in 3rd grade, one of my classmates called me and said that he couldn’t come to school because snow had fallen from the roof and broken the awning, which fell down to the front door, and the latter got locked. His parents left for work through a window, but he had to stay at home because the window couldn’t be locked from the outside.

Our teacher gave him bad marks in each subject that day for such a dumb pretext for not coming to school. The next day his parents came to school and presented photos of the 3-m-wide ice lump and a completely broken awning.”

We found another of these heartwarming stories from a Quora user named DT McCarthy:

“I was depressed from yet another disastrous relationship & hadn’t smiled in two weeks. While waiting for other people to meet up before we left for a concert, he walked in with another girl. She was cute, tiny, and petite. I am not. I was sitting on an ottoman in a yellow rubber raincoat (it was in New Jersey). The guy who was with her smiled at me and I thought, “He has the most innocent smile I’ve ever seen in a man.” There was nothing but complete joy in that smile. He said he looked at me and thought, “No one has the right to be that pretty.”

By the time we got to the concert, I was back to being a sourpuss. There was some sort of bazaar going on outside so we were all checking it out. This one vendor had the most bizarre figurines of animals. There was a toucan that had a beak larger than its body, and I heard whispered in my ear, “they could at least ask me before they use my image.” I started giggling. There was an owl with gigantic eyes and he again whispered, “There they go again.” I have a very strong intuition and bought both animals. We were married one year later.”

Now that is one of those love stories that you can’t help but smile at!

It’s in the Bag

“Once, I overslept. I was running around my apartment worrying because there is nothing scarier for me than being late for work. I called a taxi, put on a dress, put all the necessary stuff into my bag, closed it without even looking into it, took my wallet, and ran out.

It didn’t take much time to get to work because I was hurrying the driver along at every traffic light. At last, I was in the office. Hurray! When I opened my bag, I saw the 2 yellow and scared eyes of my cat looking at me. She seemed to be just as shocked as I was.”

There was no way to really be prepared for that, but hopefully the woman’s boss let her keep her cat at work for the day!

A Dream Job

“My mom’s friend has a son who is currently studying in China, and, just like many other students, he has a part-time job. Can you guess what kind of job it is? Drum roll, please! The requirements are the following: come to some new café or bar in the evening, eat the food (that’s the owner’s treat), and drink — all for free.

But the main requirement is to have fun, dance, and show everyone nearby that you really like this place. The payment is about $25 per evening … and he’s a foreigner. A FOREIGNER! The thing is that in China, the status of a place highly increases if it is visited by foreigners. That’s why the owners of newly opened restaurants use this trick, and foreigners enjoy themselves by eating, drinking, having fun, and getting money for it!”

How would you like to have this kind of job?

Another Cat Story

“While falling asleep, my arm was hanging down on the sofa. I felt my cat touch it with his paw and start to lick me with his tongue (he does it sometimes). Turning to the other side, I saw my real cat peacefully sleeping near my feet! I suddenly woke up and looked under the sofa…where another cat was sitting. He had probably climbed the vines and entered the apartment. My childhood fear of having a monster under the bed was realized.”

Some cat stories aren’t so bad, right?

The Winning Ticket

“There’s always one homeless guy hanging around near my house. He once came up to me and asked me for money for a lottery ticket. I didn’t believe that’s what he wanted it for, but I gave him some money. The next day he came back to me, gave me back my money, and said, “I’m indebted to you until I die! I bought a lottery ticket and won $250,000! Thank you!”

I actually almost started crying. It was so nice that by giving him such a small sum, I had in some way helped him get back on his feet.”

Final thoughts

We hope you enjoyed these heartwarming, sometimes funny stories about people who weren’t prepared for what was about to happen. Many times, unexpected things happen that aren’t so pleasant. Sometimes, however, life throws us a curveball and gives us something positive.

Whether you had a bad day or just want something to make you smile, we hope this article will help you remember that positive thinking can pay off, and miracles happen every day when you least expect them.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9DjKlHYY8PU

10 Early Warnings of A Bladder Infection (And 10 Remedies For It)

October 27, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Bladder infections are the most common form of urinary tract infection (UTI), a bacterial infection of the urinary system which includes the kidneys, bladder, and urethra. Characterized by symptoms associated with urination, pain in the adjacent area, and in more severe cases fever and secondary infections, bladder infections should be taken seriously—even when symptoms are minor.

Bladder infection symptoms

Painful urination

One of the first and most obvious bladder infection symptoms is often painful urination, also known as dysuria. This can manifest as a stinging sensation, a burning sensation, or more vague discomfort. It’s particularly common as a warning of bladder or urethra infection, with other forms of UTI typically manifesting in other ways.

It’s important to react to this symptom early, as mild discomfort while urinating often gives way to more intense UTI symptoms over time.

Immediate urgency

It’s not unusual to feel an urgent need to urinate, but it typically builds up over time as you put off the early sensations. When this buildup isn’t present, and instead you leap immediately to an urgent need to urinate, that’s often a warning symptom of a UTI. This can be closely associated with pain or discomfort in your bladder, and serves as a warning of a condition called interstitial cystitis, a variant of the more typical cystitis (bladder inflammation) seen as one of the common bladder infection symptoms.

Tenderness

Tenderness in your lower abdomen can be indicative of a UTI, especially in combination with other symptoms of a urinary tract infection. This can result from simple inflammation of the surrounding tissues due to the infection, pressure from swollen tissues placing extra pressure on your pelvis or other structures of the body, or simply due to excessive tension and urination over a period of time. This tenderness usually compounds the discomfort or pain of urinating with a UTI, and can warrant speedier treatment methods as a result.

Lower back pain

While it’s a symptom more common with UTIs effecting the kidneys and other portions of your upper urinary tract, bladder infections can nonetheless result in lower back pain. If you’re experiencing lower back pain in combination with other symptoms of a UTI, it’s often a sign of a serious infection which has had time to spread throughout your urinary tract. It can also simply be a result of the same inflammation and strain problems which cause tenderness in the lower abdomen.

Frequent urination

Another classic symptom of a bladder infection, or indeed any UTI, is frequent urination. If you’re urinating more than eight times a day, there’s a good chance there is a problem underlying your need to urinate. All the more so if your frequent urination is caused by the sensation that you haven’t quite finished eliminating, that there’s something still in your bladder even though nothing more is coming out. This sensation in particular is strongly associated with bladder infections rather than urethral infections or infections further up your urinary tract.

Bloody urine

Bloody urine can be one of the more frightening bladder infection symptoms, but under most circumstances it shouldn’t send you into a panic. Blood in urine comes in a huge number of permutations, so it’s important to identify the ‘type’ of bloody urine you’re experiencing so you can decide whether it’s time for a trip to the supermarket, the doctor, or the hospital.

Cloudy urine

Cloudy urine can be one of the earlier bladder infection symptoms, though many people only notice this symptom when they already suspect an infection and start paying closer attention. Urine can become cloudy due to the presence of any number of added substances, including pus, blood, proteins, and crystalline substances. Each of these in turn can arise due to a wide variety of conditions, including but not limited to bladder infections.

Strong smelling urine

If your urine starts to smell more intense or unpleasant than usual, it can be a warning sign of a UTI as well. Of course, there are other reasons to present this symptom, many of them simply a result of your diet, so look for other symptoms of a UTI before you jump to conclusions based purely on smell.

Fever

As with any infection, a UTI can present with fever as your body attempts to fight it off. The nature of UTIs means that this usually only occurs with more serious infections, however, so if you suspect a fever is stemming from an infection in your urinary tract it’s recommended you seek professional care, especially if it’s lasted for more than a few days and isn’t showing signs of improvement.

Nausea

Alongside fever as a rare symptom often indicative of more serious infections, nausea sometimes indicates a UTI which has spread to the kidneys or even other portions of the body. Individuals with gentler stomachs may experience nausea even with milder infections for many of the same reasons you may experience abdominal tenderness; inflammation, pressure from swollen tissues, etc.

Nausea may also arise as a secondary symptom should you change your eating and drinking habits in response to a bladder infection, i.e. by avoiding liquids to prevent uncomfortable urination. Make sure you’re maintaining appropriate dietary habits even while sick, to avoid complications.

Treatments

Up your water intake

Whether you’re dealing with a current UTI or just trying to prevent the next one, you should look first to your water intake. The simplest, most effective solution to UTIs of all sorts is fixing your water intake at a reasonably high level. Of course, some people already drink plenty of water and get UTIs nonetheless, but the majority of those who experience a UTI will find they need to drink more.

This is due to the relationships between urine concentration and UTIs, urinary frequency and UTIs, and general immune system health and UTIs. Thin out your urine, go more often, and keep your immune system functioning optimally.

Go often—and never hold it

Many bladder infections and other UTIs stem from a simple problem of holding it in. When you hold it in, you not only stress your body, you give any bacteria in your bladder or urethra more time to multiply and settle in as an infection. It’s far, far more difficult for bacteria to adhere to the urinary tract if you’re flushing the pipes on a regular basis. This makes it key to both prevention of infections and clearing out existing infections.

This is another reason you want to make sure you’re drinking plenty of water; without enough hydration, you may urinate infrequently enough to cause problems even if you don’t hold it in.

Anti-inflammatories

Much of the pain and symptoms associated with a UTI stem from inflammation of the surrounding tissues, so for minor UTIs which you expect to clear up on their own or with a bit of home remedy, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, foods, or supplements can work wonders. Furthermore, inflammation and stress from pain both serve to inhibit immune function, slowing your recovery.

Heat

While heat alone will rarely cause your UTI to heal itself, it can assist with the pains and discomforts of a bladder infection while encouraging a more rapid recovery. A heating pad set at a low to moderate temperature can relieve pain from inflammation, encourage reduced inflammation, and assist blood flow with benefits to immune function. Be careful not to burn yourself with high temperatures or lengthy sessions.

Vitamin C

While vitamin C has a reputation as a cure for any number of illnesses, a true mechanism of action for assisting in UTIs make this condition one for which it is uniquely suitable. Large doses of vitamin C serve to acidify your urine and interact with nitrites in the urine, making it an inhospitable environment to the various bacteria which cause your infections. This may not cure existing infections if they’re severe enough, but it will limit growth to prevent worsening of your condition or the development of additional infections in the future.

Cranberry juice

Cranberry juice contains a number of substances associated with recovery from and prevention of UTIs. While it’s easiest to simply drink cranberry juice regularly, you could also consider finding these compounds in supplement forms such as cranberry extract or or d-mannose, a type of sugar found in cranberries.

Cranberry extracts in particular are believed to act to prevent the adherence of bacteria to the urinary tract, while d-mannose has shown efficiency in studies in both preventing and treating bladder infection.

Probiotics

Bolstering your immune system through the addition of probiotics to your diet via foods or supplements can quickly eradicate minor UTIs, improve your resistance to future infections, and ease symptoms while you wait for other treatments to work.

Hygiene

For mild cases of bladder infection stemming from bacteria travelling through the urethra, simply improving hygiene often allows your body to resolve the infection on its own. Notable hygiene issues associated with UTIs of all sorts include wiping back to front and failure to urinate after sexual activity. General cleanliness and special attention to these areas will minimize the amount of bacteria which can travel through your urethra and start infections.

Garlic extract

The antimicrobial properties of garlic make it a useful supplement in the treatment and prevention of any number of infections, including blocking the growth of the bacteria associated with UTIs. In addition to this direct benefit in managing the root cause of a UTI, garlic extract is noted for its value in treating inflammation, which means it can serve to reduce the pain associated with your infection while you wait for it to resolve.

Antibiotics

When all else fails—or if you don’t mind a trip to the doctor right away—antibiotics will always serve as an effective treatment for bladder infections. Of course, this comes with its own set of limitations; chronic use of antibiotics offers its own set of problems, from incompatibility with other medications to growing resistance. Your doctor may prescribe a general antibiotic based on preference and specifics of your infection, or take a culture and recommend an antibiotic with a more specific aim.

Antibiotics serve to eliminate the current infection, but won’t serve to prevent recurrence, which means the other treatments discussed should be considered as a long-term solution. Patients who experience one infection of the urinary tract are far more likely to experience additional infections if they aren’t careful.

Parting thoughts

While any given bladder infection is a single infection which can be treated with antibiotics or resolve on its own given time, it’s often best to consider it a chronic problem; without ongoing maintenance of your urinary tract, it’s likely you’ll see recurring UTIs for years to come. Make sure you know the symptoms and know the best ways to prevent recurrence. It’s worth a bit more fluids and a few more trips to the bathroom each day.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dDn84WupgBA

Researchers Explain Why Volunteering Is The Best Kept Secret to Good Mental Health

October 27, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Volunteering is the best secret to good mental health. Essentially, doing good for others does good for you. It’s not often talked about, but it’s one of the best ways to improve your psychological well-being.

Things you do that make a positive impact on the world are typically done as acts of selflessness. This means you rarely expect anything in return, and expecting such a thing rather defeats the purpose, anyway. But that doesn’t mean that volunteering doesn’t come with its share of benefits for the kind volunteers!

7 Reasons Why Volunteering Is The Best Kept Secret To Good Mental Health

“Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.” – Unknown

1. Volunteering makes you feel happier

Many of us are familiar with the joyful feeling we get from doing a random act of kindness. As a matter of fact, the act of helping others, even in any small way, can promote happiness overall. Imagine what it’s like for people who volunteer regularly!

Studies have shown results that prove helping others can actually light up reward centers in the brain. And they’re not just any reward centers – they’re the ones associated with things like intimacy and food. This means that the brain gets a totally natural high from volunteering and providing assistance to others!

There is one slight caveat to this great way to promote positive thinking. A job where kindness and caring for others is required cannot produce the same results. Examples of this are in healthcare fields and similar aid work.

This means if you are seeking happiness from helping others, your best bet is to volunteer! Choose to put your effort into work that you personally find important and meaningful. The feeling you get from helping these causes and people in those situations will be phenomenal! No wonder volunteering is the best secret to good mental health!

2. It leads to more oxytocin production

Those who volunteer regularly reportedly actually produce higher oxytocin levels. These spikes are characteristic in these individuals, according to a study in the Hormones and Behavior journal.

Oxytocin is a neurotransmitter responsible for the regulation of social interaction.
As such, volunteering can make you better at social interaction and help ease anxiety that some experience with that kind of pressure.
It might even have positive effects on those with more serious social anxiety, though this requires further research.
This boost in the neurotransmitter is great for mental health, as having a healthy amount of social activity in one’s life can make you feel happier overall.
People with depression would do well to take time out occasionally to try and participate in a social event.

Oxytocin is also known for its ability to abate stress levels, which we’ll discuss more in our next point. For now, it’s clear enough to see that the spike in levels of the neurotransmitter does wonders for mental health!

3. It helps with stress management

When you’re stressed, distracting yourself from your problems for a while can help calm you down. That’s why volunteering works so well. You’re pushing your own worries aside temporarily in order to pour time into making an improvement in someone else’s life.

Even if all you’re doing is having a conversation with someone else, or interacting with a pet, you’re still building a meaningful connection with another individual. You are giving them your attention and engaging in social activities, which takes your mind off of stress.

According to a study by Rodlescia Sneed and Sheldon Cohen, published in the Psychology and Aging Journal, there might be a physical reason behind this benefit. Apparently, volunteering is capable of lowering blood pressure.

The study found that those who practice volunteering activities for around 200 hours a year are likely to have lower blood pressure. (Some other studies have placed this number at around 100 hours, too.) This means volunteering is not only the best secret to good mental health – it’s a secret to some aspects of physical health, too!

4. It can provide a sense of purpose

Sometimes, this big world can make you feel like you’re not doing enough. You can feel small, or like your actions don’t matter. You might feel like you’re going nowhere in life, or that there’s no point because you’re just one person – what can you do, anyway?

When you volunteer, you learn the magic that comes with helping others and being selfless.
You’ll learn the impact you can have on someone with what seems, to you, like minimal effort.
You’ll learn that putting smiles on the faces of others is making a positive difference.
This can provide you with a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.
Purpose is what motivates and drives many people. If you have a better sense of purpose from volunteering, it can do wonders for your mental health.

5. It decreases the risk of depression

If you’re in a slump, consider volunteering. Not only is it a good distraction, but it can also combat certain destructive habits. This mainly applies to negative thinking and being self-critical to an extreme, transforming these into methods for positive thinking instead.

Helping others can open the mind to seeing that anything is possible. It can, therefore, provide motivation and inspiration to those who feel they are losing hope or feeling sad. If they are capable of making such a change in someone’s life, who’s to say they can’t do so for themselves?

In addition, seeing the hardships that others face can provide you with a sense of the bigger picture of the world. It can take your eyes off yourself and view your struggles in the grand scheme of things. Of course, misery is not a competition, and your feelings are valid. But sometimes, seeing what others go through can make you feel less alone or put your own issues into perspective.

Does this apply to those who already have been diagnosed with a depressive disorder? More research is needed. Still, people who have depression know how annoying it is to hear that all they need is some positive thinking to get over what they experience.

Depression is a complicated condition that has yet to be fully understood. But volunteering and helping others may help manage the symptoms experienced by those with depressive disorders. So if you’re looking for a natural way to combat these symptoms, it’s worth a shot!

6. Volunteering provides better cognitive and brain function

Volunteering helps your brain to work better. When we say volunteering is the best secret to good mental health, it’s because it can directly improve your overall brain function. When your brain is healthy, it can better produce the correct hormones for mood regulation and other similar processes.

Researchers with Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health carried out a study that proved this point. The study revealed that adults who spent time volunteering with a youth mentoring program wound up with a visible improvement in cognitive ability.

As a matter of fact, magnetic resonance imaging determined that some regions of the test subjects’ brains – especially key spots that boost cognitive skill – made obvious gains. These areas were mainly ones involved with organization in daily life. There were even changes in the way that the activation patterns in the brain worked.

These results were so prominent that they showed a complete standstill in decreasing function previously present for those with degenerative conditions. For some, volunteering even completely reversed those effects. So it’s really no surprise that volunteering is fantastic for overall mental health!

7. Altruism can be performed everywhere

It’s not just volunteering. Altruistic acts, in general, are known for their positive effects on one’s wellbeing.

Altruism refers to the act of putting the needs of others before your own needs. This can come in many shapes and forms. Because there are so many different ways you can be altruistic, it’s easy to help boost your mental health with small acts of kindness.

So while we certainly urge you to volunteer to help others and yourself, there may be some times when this isn’t possible. You might be ill, feel too exhausted, or have other commitments that week. So here are some other ways you can be altruistic in the meantime:

Make coffee or tea for a friend, family member, or colleague.
Give up a seat on public transportation to someone who needs it.
Mentor someone who needs assistance.
Be there for someone in their time of need.
Donate money or items to an organization you believe in.

Altruism is free, and it makes you feel great. And when you’re not free to volunteer, there are plenty of easy ways to do it without draining yourself out. This is one of the reasons altruism is a great way to improve your mental health while having a positive impact on the world!

Final Thoughts On Why Volunteering Is The Best Kept Secret To Good Mental Health

For now, volunteering is the best secret to good mental health – but don’t let it stay that way! The power found in being compassionate and kind speaks for itself. If you’ve been feeling down or struggling with issues in your personal life, focusing on others might just give you the kick you need.

Get involved in local animal shelters and rescue organizations. Help out at a care home or orphanage. Work at a soup kitchen. Participate in environmental efforts. Raise money for a charity. The possibilities are endless!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CU2LlJxEdJ4

3 Behaviors That Make You Have Less Money (And How to Avoid Them)

October 27, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Is having less money a constant struggle for you? Do you find it hard to save despite how much you earn at work? You might be embracing habits and behaviors that reduce money instead of growing it. You might be earning good money but your attitude towards your finances might need some fine-tuning if you find that you’re not spending it on (or setting it aside for) worthwhile things.

According to a study at George Washington University’s TIAA Institute and the Global Financial Literacy Excellence Center, most people don’t have a firm grasp of their financial health. Some 1,043 adults were asked to answer 28 questions in a survey but only 49 percent of these questions were correctly answered. Less than 20 percent also got fewer than seven correct answers, which amounts to less than 25 percent.

To be financially healthy is not just about having a lot of money in your bank. It’s also about having positive habits with money. Here are some behaviors that you may be surprised to learn are actually affecting your financial wellness.

3 Behaviors That Make You Have Less Money (And How To Avoid Them)

“Living on less than you make is a matter of controlling yourself, not a matter of math.” – Dave Ramsey

1. You don’t have a positive perspective when it comes to money

Having money to afford nice things is, well, a nice way to live. But if your motivation for having money is mostly because you want to maintain the status quo and make your life fulfilling, then you could easily fall into a trap.

If you lost all that money today, how much of your life would change? The truth is, only a few things should be different in your life whether you have more than enough or lack money.

Do you remember what it was like when you got your first paycheck? You were likely excited to spend it all on the things you wanted. But then you quickly realized you had very little money left once you paid your bills, rent, and loans.

Now, apply this situation to the way you handle your finances every month. Do you always get the surprise of your life whenever you open your credit card bills and realize you’ve spent more than you anticipated? You thought you would have enough to spend because you earn well, but you realize you already spent it on credit. This is the kind of perspective that ruins the financial health of most people.

A Healthy Versus Unhealthy Perspective on Money

Someone with a healthy financial perspective knows that they shouldn’t be spending beyond what they earn. These are the individuals who also know their numbers very well so they can keep their spending in check. These are the very people who, despite their wealth, still keep working and pushing themselves instead of growing complacent about how much they earn. It is not just money that drives their life.

It’s easy for people to lose their perspective about money, especially if they regularly earn a substantial amount. But do you ever notice how millionaires or billionaires enjoy their wealth? They have more than enough to live every day in luxury. They can enjoy their life as if they’re in on a constant holiday if they want to, but that’s not what they do.

Instead, they keep working and improving their business or company. Yes, they might take some vacations, yet they do not make that their lifestyle. Instead of thinking they can vacation for the rest of their life since they are super rich, they’re on the grind most days.

These multi-million business leaders have the right perspective about money. They maintain a balance in their earning and spending. Even if you earn in the high digits, you can still feel an imbalance and your life may still be incomplete if you consume more than you earn. Unfortunately, for most people, having a surplus of money feels like a license to spend with abandon.

So, how do you fix this perspective on money?

Keep track of your daily spending.
Know how much money you have left after paying off your obligations and living expenses.
Divide any surplus money to make it last for 30 days. Whatever you’ve got, that is your daily spending for the next month.
Every time you go out to dine, shop, or enjoy a leisure weekend, keep this amount in mind to keep a balanced perspective on your money.
If you’re about to buy a pair of shoes, think of how much its price would eat up your daily budget. If you indulge in the purchase, how much would you have leftover? Would you be spending into next week or next month? If so, put the item back on the shelf.

2. You have an unhealthy attachment to what money can buy

How often do you dine out or buy an expensive latte? It might not seem harmful if you look at buying a Starbucks Grande as a reward. If you feel that you deserve to give yourself this treat after a long and challenging day at work, then the indulgence might not seem like a bad thing.

It might seem like a worthy expense if you dine at a fancy restaurant with your friends every weekend. You need to unwind at the end of the week and you feel you also deserve these simple pleasures in life. So, what better way to celebrate a tough work week than to try out the latest food craze with your group, right?

However, if you add up how much a daily Starbucks latte or a weekly dining splurge is costing you, you could be shocked to learn how it’s really affecting your financial wellness. This is not to say that you shouldn’t indulge. However, you might be manifesting addictive behavior if you place too much value on getting these pleasures. If your perspective is that you “need” to get a daily Starbucks fix, this could be an unhealthy attachment.

Now, these addictive behaviors do not have the same serious effects as an actual addiction or substance abuse problem but it might be causing your finances to spiral out of control. Assistant professor of psychology at San Francisco State University, Ryan T. Howell, Ph.D. says that at least 10 percent of adults have a compulsive buying or spending disorder. It’s how shopaholics end up with piling bills.

Points on Balanced Spending

The one trait common among compulsive spenders is that they feel better after rewarding themselves. They also think that their indulgences are good for their wellbeing. If you find yourself regularly spending beyond your means to “reward” yourself, keep these points in mind:

Experts say that it isn’t wrong to allow yourself the pleasure of enjoying what you earn. However, as you enjoy your money, you should also balance it out by controlling your spending.
Pay attention to your numbers and your credit card bills even if you feel good about having money.
Be realistic about your spending habits and regularly review your daily budget so your expenses don’t exceed the money you make.
Before paying for something, always ask yourself if you really need this item or service.

If you make it a habit to evaluate your budget and daily spending, you will likely find a way to curb your addictive personality and unhealthy attachments to money.

3. You refuse to deal with your compulsive buying disorder

Oniomania or compulsive buying disorder (CBD) is an actual psychological condition. Experts have been looking into this disorder for years and have found that its rate is actually increasing every year.

When left unchecked and uncontrolled, CBD may be linked to mood and anxiety disorders, impulse control and eating disorders, as well as certain substance abuse problems. According to World Psychiatry, this condition has no standard treatment but some experts have tried to use psychotropic medication for their patients in the form of antidepressants. Others have also tried cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

However, the study also stated that medicating alone will not solve the problem. If a person has been diagnosed as a compulsive spender, the first step to curing this disorder is to actually acknowledge that he or she has a problem managing money.

Hiding your purchases from your spouse
Buying too many things you don’t really need
Spending a big chunk of your income on these items
Expecting these purchases to improve your life or give a false sense of security
Experiencing conflicts in your relationship due to the way you spend your money

Realize, however, that acknowledging you may have a problem with handling your money is not a sign of weakness. Admitting your mistake humanizes you in a way that can be humbling. It can teach you about being financially mature, too.

Four Steps to Curbing a Compulsive Spending Disorder

Refuse to Use Credit Cards

To be proactive about managing your finances, you might have to cancel your credit cards and stop issuing checks until you get your funds back on track. Cards and checks are tools that can fuel compulsive spending disorder. Credit cards, especially, make the freedom to buy things easier but the burden of paying off a debt a lot harder. So, you have to learn to let go of your dependency on this tool.

Consider Therapy

If your problems with money are still going haywire despite cutting your credit cards, then you might have to submit yourself to therapy and a treatment plan with a professional. You will recognize this need if your buying experience brings more negative than positive feelings in the long run.

As with recognizing you might have problems handling money, acknowledging that you may need a therapist doesn’t make you weak either. It takes a strong person to subject themselves to the process of therapy, as it’s never easy to examine what could be wrong with you to push you to spend unwisely.

Find a Support Group

If a therapist is not enough, you might also have to undergo a 12-step program, such as Debtors Anonymous. Or, you could look into a group on Facebook or message boards where you can discuss your difficulties. It should be helpful and therapeutic to open up to a support group that understands what you’re really going through.

Work with Collection Agencies

Also, try contacting a collection or consumer agency instead of avoiding these companies. Some of these agencies might offer credit counseling and debt management programs for free to help you get your finances back on track.

Final Thoughts Of Behaviors That Make You Have Less Money

It might seem challenging at first to overcome problems and behaviors that lessen money. But the more you ignore these, the longer it will take for you to get out of this rut.

Have a positive mindset, develop patience, and practice diligence. These will help you become more consistent in managing your finances. With determination, you can succeed in getting out debt.

Scientists Explain Connection Between Sugar and Cancer Growth

October 27, 2018 by Power of Positivity

People who are health conscious and positive thinking likely do not consume sugar to excess. Unfortunately, even small amounts of those sneaky sugar molecules can be connected to cancer growth in our bodies. With an eye on prevention, scientists are discovering more about how and why sugar affects cancer cell growth and what we can do to distance ourselves even further from sugar’s unhealthy effects.

Sugar is a carbohydrate molecule, often associated with sweet treats, but it can be found in natural fruits as well. Our bodies use carbohydrates as fuel, and sugar can be a complex or simple carbohydrate molecule. Complex carbohydrates exist in starches like pasta and potatoes. They are basically a bunch of sugar molecules strung together. The difference is that whereas complex carbohydrate foods contain healthy fiber, vitamins, and minerals, simple carbohydrates like white sugar and high fructose corn syrup have none of those nutritional benefits.

Do we need sugar to survive? Not exactly. As long as we have carbohydrates in our diet, we can avoid sugar. However, with the wide variety of foods containing naturally occurring sugars, like lactose and fructose for example, we would eliminate a lot of tasty and nutritional items by avoiding all dietary sugars.

Sugar is an acidic molecule

Acidity is a happy place for cancer and disease in the body, so no wonder an acidic molecule like sugar is connected to cancer growth. The more sugar we consume, the more acidic our bodies are. The more acidic our bodies are, the more likely disease will spread because it is being kept in its favorite climate. It’s like any existing cancer cells in your body get to go on an all-inclusive vacation at the beach in Fiji and multiply like bunnies whenever you have lots of sugar in your diet.

Dr. Otto Warburg first associated cancer with an acidic environment back in 1931, and he won a Nobel prize in Physiology or Medicine for his research. The causality of his discovery has been debated and researched ever since. Needless to say, avoiding sugar and its acidity is beneficial for our bodies, period. If cancer hates alkalinity, so much the better if we decrease acidic sugar in our diet.

Feeding the cancer cell

As a positive person, you likely eat healthy, vegan, and nutritionally packed food to provide you with the sustenance you need for your day. But what if your meal was accidentally feeding cancerous growth inside your body? Scientists explain that your balance of carbohydrates from sugars, both natural and added, might need to be changed.

Sugar, as a carbohydrate, breaks down for use as fuel for your cells. However, it also feeds cancer cells. Fat tissue stores excess sugar. Clearly, we don’t want to store food for cancer cells that want to grow and multiply. We want to eliminate any sugars stores in the fats of our bodies so that disease and cancer do not get an all-they-can-eat buffet.

Scientists Explain What Happens To Your Body When You Quit Sugar For 10 Days

Sugar stimulates cancer growth

Fermentation of sugar does not require oxygen, which is ideal for cancer cells. It helps them reproduce and multiply faster than if they did not have sugar. The scientists studying sugar’s effect on cancer growth found that sugar, just like in human children, causes hyperactivity for the reproduction and spreading of cancer cells. In other words, it dials it up to high speed and allows cancer to proliferate in the body.

Researchers in the scientific journal Nature Communications found that the Warburg effect creates a vicious cycle through activation of early cellular growth pathways, like a roadmap for genes to build on. This later leads to enhanced fermentation of sugar and a lack of oxygen in the cellular environment, which stimulates increased growth of tumors.

Sugar changes cellular functions

Further research in the Journal of General Virology examined sugar’s role in the growth of cervical cancers. Some of those who are affected by HPV (human papilloma virus) have an increased risk for developing cervical cancer. However, only some of the 200 genetic variants of HPV are associated with a higher risk of cancer growth.

These Canadian researchers found two different cellular mechanisms that are affected by sugar, which causes HPV to prompt cells to become cancerous and grow. The first connection between sugar and cancer growth is in the preference for the genetic expression of a process in the cell that enhances cellular growth under anaerobic or hypoxic conditions. The second connection between sugar and cancer is that it enhances the ability of cervical cancer cells to multiply due to changes in cell signaling.

Simply put, sugar makes it easier for a normal cell to mutate, which allows the mutated or cancerous cell to use sugar for energy even without oxygen. Sugar also affects the rate of cancer cell proliferation, causing it to multiply and spread faster.

Weighing the sweet against the risk

A diet high in sugar can lead to other health problems, for example, obesity. The Body Mass Index (BMI) measures weight-to-body-height proportions for both men and women. A higher weight density or BMI associates with a higher sugar intake in general. Scientists in the journal Cancer Epidemiology found that a higher BMI also associates, among other factors, with a higher risk for colon cancer.

As the body processes excess sugar in the bloodstream, a high glycemic index (GI) causes the pancreas to release insulin. Triglycerides are also formed to store excess sugars. High GI, insulin, and triglycerides are all associated with diets high in sugars and with a higher risk of colon cancer. Not surprisingly, exercise may help lower the risk of colon cancer. The researchers say that if the individual is sedentary, the risk for colon cancer is higher than if they are active.

One possible explanation for this is that exercise causes the body to burn some of the available sugar so that there is less of this acidic molecule in the bloodstream. Using up sugar during exercise also means that your body excretes less sugar as waste. As a result, less sugar reaches the colon.

What can we do to manage our sugar and cancer risk?

The Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine gives us some basic recommendations about sugar in the diet, especially when there is a low fiber content, also called a higher glycemic index. Whole, unprocessed, vegan foods are preferable for the diet of a positive thinking person. Whenever possible, choose these over cooked, processed, or packaged foods.

The less processed a food is, the less nutritional value it loses. Thus, the less environmental impact it has. It is also less likely that simple sugars have been added through processing. Sources of carbohydrates that are multi-grain are preferred over whole grain. Furthermore, whole grains trump bleached flour when it comes to protecting your health. Fiber helps offset some of the negative effects of sugar on cancer growth.

How to Fight Cancer With Nutrition: 7 Foods to Never Ignore

Think about changing some of your foods to reduce the total amount of simple carbohydrates. (These are often found in crackers, white bread, cookies, cereal, candy, and sweetened beverages). Opting for lettuce wraps over any kind of bread gives you a positive impact. It will reduce your dietary sugar intake.

Sugar and the evolution of the human diet

Early humans didn’t eat a lot of starch or sugar in their diets. They moved around the land looking for what was edible. Some root vegetables would have been available to early humans as forms of starch and carbohydrates. However, much of what we consume as carbohydrates today are very recent additions to our diet. Sliced bread wasn’t widely available until the 1930s and people have been around this planet for ten thousand years.

15 Natural Ways To Control Blood Sugar With Home Remedies

Global agriculture and shipping sweet fruits and starchy vegetables year-round is also a recent human development. Although no one complains about getting bananas year-round, the evolving early human would not have had access to them unless he happened to live near a climate where they grow. Even then, he would only be able to eat them during the correct time of year. We take for granted that dried fruits are available to us as often as we like. In reality, these convenient sweet foods have increased our sugar consumption. We eat far more sugar than a natural human living off the land would.

As a positive role model for others, you choose to reduce both added and natural sugars in your diet. Knowing that this kind of diet reduces your risk of cancer is a huge payoff. Your health and wellness professional can help you design a low-sugar nutritional program. Look for a diet that suits your individual health benefits, while managing any illness, pain or disease.

Note: Always consult your wellness advocate before starting any new regimen.

Researchers Reveal 5 Ways To Form A New Habit And Transform Your Life

October 27, 2018 by Power of Positivity

The way you live your life is essentially the direct result of the habits you have created. These habits impact how you live in both positive and negative ways.

When you want to improve and transform your life, it makes sense to kick the bad habits and form new ones. Experts, however, learned in a study published in the European Journal of Social Psychology that it takes at least 66 days to build a new habit.

Factors like your behavior, your expectations, and your motivation to faithfully stick to your routines can affect how these new habits come about. But while it might be a challenging thing to do, countless people have successfully developed new habits to make their life better. And if they can do it, then so can you.

Here Are 5 Ways Researchers Reveal To Form A New Habit And Transform Your Life

“Breaking old habits and forming new ones always takes time, but it is worth it in the end.” – Joyce Meyer

1. It’s okay to have big dreams, but it’s better to have small goals.

A study in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology showed that motivation and discipline can come from abstract thinking. The study further stated that, in many ways, people who dream big based on these abstract thoughts develop a higher sense of power and purpose.

So, these people become quite determined to build new habits because of the idea that their big dreams may bring the most satisfactory results. However, too often in life, the motivation to do big things are eclipsed by the challenges and realities of day-to-day activities.

It also takes time for big dreams to make a dramatic impact. Sometimes, it is easy to lose sight of the motivation to create and sustain the new habit when you can’t see concrete results to your goals.

To make big dreams become a reality – and thus impact the way you form new habits – it is better, therefore, to build them with smaller goals. When you put these small goals together, they will form part of the bigger picture – your bigger dreams. But of course, what’s easier to cross off your list and mark as “completed”? It’s always the smaller goals.

2. Create a new chain of behavior from your old routines.

For good habits that stick, experts from the Journal of Psychology, Health & Medicine said that it would be better to create new habits based on your old routines or experiences. Instead of making a complete change, which you might eventually resist or do away with, why not try to create a new link to your old ways and see how that will work to improve your life?

For instance, you do not really have to become the next Martha Stewart if your goal is to make cleanliness a habit. Now, this kind of goal takes a lot of willpower and you might not have the energy to stick to the habit of making your home clean, cozy and inviting after a few challenging weeks. But if you want to make your house spotless every day, how do you do it?

Experts suggest following the if-then principle, as per the Harvard Business Review. It’s a simple process that entails giving yourself conditions. For instance, IF you’ve changed into your house clothes when you arrive home from work, then you can start cleaning the kitchen. Or, if you’re taking a shower in the morning, then you might as well clean the bathroom before you start your day. As with the first tip above, reach small, doable goals that expand from the routines you’re already used to.

In relation to adding new things to your routines, experts say that your cortisol levels are higher in the morning. The cortisol hormone impacts fast learning and better memory. So, if you’re thinking of modifying your routines, consider the ones you do in the morning to elicit a more positive outcome of creating and sticking to a habit to transform your life.

3. Trim down your options to uncomplicate your life.

Everyone knows that Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg limits his wardrobe choices to just two types of clothes: basic gray shirts and jeans. For someone with billions of dollars, Zuckerberg made a conscious choice to trim down his clothing options.

He told reporters the very simple reason why. He didn’t want to waste his time and energy in making decisions on what to wear when there are bigger choices he has to make for his company. There’s a science behind this behavior, as expounded in a study on the American Psychological Association. Experts related it to self-control and long-term discipline.

So, to create new habits that can bring a good change, you must recognize areas in your life that you consider tedious or repetitious. Try to trim down the options in these areas, so you don’t have to be bogged down by the choices.

For instance, if you want to make a habit of eating healthy, the most logical thing to do is to cut down on your junk food choices. Stop buying snacks and high-calorie food. Better yet, pack the same healthy meals for work every day so you don’t have to waste your lunch hour by making a choice on what to eat.

Limiting your choices is a matter of self-control and discipline, which helps you in forming new habits. In this case, you’re making the positive move to improve your health, which will obviously impact your physical and mental well-being.

4. Visualize but don’t fantasize about the process to build a new habit.

Visualization helps when you want to motivate yourself to create and sustain a new habit or goal. Experts say there’s a right and a wrong way to do this process. Some people make the mistake of turning the things they visualize into a fantasy. As a result, they are not able to sustain the habit that should have ushered a change in their life. Apparently, those that fantasize lose sight of why they want the transformation in the first place.

A case in point is the study published in the Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin. Experts from the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) looked into two different groups of participants who were learning French. One group visualized themselves as learning and studying the language by practicing in class every day, while the other group visualized – or more like fantasized – they were on a trip to Paris and were speaking to the locals.

The study stated that the first group of participants who focused on the process of what they wanted to achieve showed more consistent results in mastering French. They were more motivated and also less anxious about going through the process. It seemed that this type of visualizing prepared them well, thus they were able to create and sustain a new habit of using a foreign language.

5. Don’t give up on the habit if you slip up.

It’s easy to quit doing something when you don’t see any positive results or when you slip up and start questioning if it’s really worth the effort. Psychologists describe this behavior as the What-The-Hell effect. It’s when you set a goal but then don’t reach it, so you let go of any self-control you have left because you feel you have failed anyway.

But what many do not understand is that forming new habits can be a challenging and fragile process. So, if you start thinking that it would better to ditch the habit because it’s not changing your life, sit down and take a good look at what’s really going on.

Focus on creating long-term goals instead of short-term goals in order to sustain the new habit. A good example would be the long-term goals of those who are part of Alcoholics Anonymous. They focus on how far they have come to achieve soberness by counting their non-drinking days. The principle behind this may also work when forming new good habits.

Final Thoughts On Ways To Form A New Habit And Transform Your Life

Experts say that a positive change in your life can happen if you keep doing the same routines over and over until they become your habits. While it might feel like forming a new habit is kind of a hassle, it usually takes less than 10 minutes to do something consistently every day.

The actual challenge is how to stick to these routines. For this, you need to find the purpose of what you’re doing. When you know the purpose, then you also learn why doing something over and over until it becomes a habit is beneficial to you. Then your life will change because of it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BrQHK272XcE

7 Secrets to Never Keep From Your Partner

October 27, 2018 by Power of Positivity

First, let us define the word “secret” in a relationship setting, as it is used in this article. A secret is information that would be of concern to one’s partner that is intentionally withheld for any reason. It is essential to understand that the rationale for keeping a secret doesn’t matter here. As we will see, sometimes secrets are kept for benevolent purposes, but this still involves the withholding of information, which is a big no-no in a relationship.

Second, we must consider relationship duration and status to appropriately understand the complexity of keeping secrets and the resultant effects. In this regard, the act of keeping secrets applies to those in mature and committed relationships. (Read: no “casual” dating; no short-term dating, defined as anything less than six months to one year.)

Who is Playing Secret?

“Are gay people more likely to keep relationship secrets than heterosexuals?” This was the question underpinning the first published study about keeping secrets for one’s partner. Besides answering this question, psychologist Beth Easterling and her colleagues at East Carolina University uncovered some fascinating stuff about partners and secret-keeping. The study was published in the Journal of GLBT Family Studies.

Regarding her initial question, Dr. Easterling did indeed find that gay people are more likely to keep secrets from their partners than heterosexuals. Easterling cites dealing with a lifetime of prejudice and discrimination as the motivating force. In a society that is still largely ignorant about the nature of sexual orientation, many gay individuals have spent much of theirs a secret. Apparently, having to conceal one’s sexual orientation can manifest into other areas.

As part of her research, Easterling gathered comprehensive comparative data from heterosexual couples. According to the study, 60 percent of 431 participants reported ever keeping a secret in a non-platonic relationship. Twenty-five percent stated that they were currently keeping a secret from their partner. These percentages are slightly higher for African-Americans, females, and married folks when compared with Caucasians, males, and dating partners.

Then there’s the big two: why do we keep secrets? What kinds of secrets do we keep?

Why do we keep secrets?

“Many of my clients tell me they keep secrets from their partner because they think telling the truth will make things worse. Or they believe that their significant other simply couldn’t handle the truth…” – Terry Gaspard, Licensed Clinical Social Worker

It comes as no surprise that people in relationships keep secrets for a multitude of reasons. More women keep secrets out of fear of damaging the relationship or hurting their partner. More married people are motivated to keep a secret if they feel its disclosure would cause their partner to lose faith in them.

Regarding the last, researchers state that shame and fear of disapproval are two keys driving forces behind why many people choose to keep a secret from their committed partners. As honesty and trust are highly valued in relationships from a cultural perspective, the person maintaining a secret may feel pressure to keep up the façade. Relatedly, secret keepers may rationalize their behavior by telling themselves that omitting information is not the same as outright deception.

What kinds of secrets do people keep?

As you can imagine, there are numerous answers to this question, as well. Pretty much anything and everything has been kept a secret from an unsuspecting partner. While it’s difficult to ascertain the most commonly kept secrets, we can do a bit of research. Here are what a few studies have to say:

In a 2014 study, a law firm in the U.K. found that one in every five Brits was “keeping a major secret in their marriage.” Of this group, 25 percent report keeping a secret that would probably end their marriage; including pornography addiction, infidelity, money troubles, and contact with a former lover.
In a survey conducted by Forbes, 20 percent of spouses report keeping financial secrets. Among the offenses: a secret bank account or credit card and spending more than $500 without telling their partner.
According to a study by researchers at Columbia Business School at Columbia University, “extra-relational thoughts” came in as the top secret in a survey of 1,200 Americans.

So, there you have it. Proof that the reasons for keeping secrets from your partner are as various as they are perplexing. Perhaps we should rephrase the question another way: what kinds of secrets shouldn’t you keep from your partner? Let’s get after it.

Secrets you shouldn’t keep

“(You) don’t have to share every minute detail about your life with your (partner); however, there are certain secrets you just can’t keep.”

We can go back and forth as to whether keeping secrets is ever okay. Some say it is, and some say it isn’t. But most people will agree that these are the seven secrets that you should never keep from your partner:

1. Negative emotions towards your partner

If you’re lugging around anger or resentment towards your partner, you need to nip it in the bud like yesterday. Whether you realize it or not, you are probably displaying negativity towards him or her. Regardless of what they’ve done, they deserve transparency. Get whatever it is off your mind. Talk about it with your partner if you need to, and take things from there.

2. Financial problems

Listen, we all know that times are tough. Wages haven’t kept up with prices and, regardless of what the latest job report says, many people are working jobs that don’t pay nearly enough. All of that aside, you need to be transparent about any financial skeletons. Credit or debt issues, cuts in pay, bankruptcies, liens – all of that is going to come to the surface eventually. Just get it all on the table and figure it out. They’ll love you anyway (even if they’re mad as hell at first.)

3. Infidelity

Okay, so…yeah. There is no way of soft-balling the issue, so we won’t try. Infidelity is a big deal in the context of a loving relationship. Be that as it may, it does absolutely no good to try and “swallow” your guilt or whatever destructive emotion you’re feeling. When you do this, you’re not fair to yourself or your partner. You’ll merely end up in a miserable mental state, and they’ll become increasingly suspicious. The relationship may or may not end, but you owe them the truth.

4. Substance abuse problems

Here is another significant “personal problem” that your partner – if they truly love you – will be all too eager to help solve. Most people who “hide” their addiction and substance abuse problems do so out of embarrassment and shame – and such feelings are understandable. It’s critical to know, however, that substance abuse and addiction issues have less to do with personal weakness, and more to do with genetics and environmental factors. With honest, the support from your partner, and a resolute attitude, you can overcome substance abuse.

5. Health conditions

If you suffer from serious mental or physical health problems, you must absolutely inform your significant other (ideally, before they become your partner.) Health problems, whether they influence your state of mind or your body, are to be fully disclosed. The odds are that, at some point, your partner will need to care for you or seek the assistance of someone who can. Telling your partner about any serious health condition is both morally and rationally justifiable.

6. Criminal record

If there’s something in your past that will affect your partner’s life, you owe it to them to tell the truth. Before you do, please understand that it’s okay to be ashamed of something you’ve done. This shows that you care about your behavior, and that you are (hopefully) making an effort to change. There is no need for you to revisit and regret the past, but there is a need for you to own up to something when it influences someone else’s life. So, own up – and move on.

7. Family problems

Okay, so we’re not talking about the in-laws (it’s okay to be quiet here!) but problems with your immediate family. For example, if you and a sibling are not on speaking terms, it is befitting to tell your partner. If your dad is bringing a mistress to the family gathering, whisper in your partner’s ear. You can bet that your partner’s family has a fair bit of “dysfunction” too! Explain the serious stuff and laugh about the rest.

Final Thoughts

You’ve probably heard the saying, “The coverup is always worse than the crime.” Perhaps the person who coined it did so after failing to keep a secret from their partner. Joking aside, keep the following in mind before trying to keep a secret from your partner:

Honesty and trustworthiness are two of the most critical elements of a successful relationship.
The past does not define who you are or what you will become.
Your partner’s capacity for love and compassion are probably much greater than you think.
It is never too late to change.
No matter what happens, the sun will come up tomorrow.

Remember to love – and to love often…

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auBxkWh6Q_s

15 Natural Ways Women Can Relieve Vaginal Yeast Infections

October 27, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Ever go to the bathroom and suddenly smell, a cheesy, fishy, or bread-like aroma after you wipe? This can signal a yeast colony has moved into your nether regions. Yeast infection symptoms can make you uncomfortable, embarrassed, and the infection can pose a major health risk to your reproductive system and urinary tract. Luckily, treatments are easy, natural, and you can do so in the comfort of your home for most cases.

What is a Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Candida is a fungus that lives inside your body and causes infections. Like most flora in our bodies, we want a balance between the good, the bad, and those falling in the middle. Candida serves our bodies as a food source, but it can multiply. This fungus is also responsible for other infections, so some of the remedies on this list might also help thrush, athlete’s foot, diaper rash, and jock itch.

Lactobacillus acidophilus, a powerful probiotic, feeds off the natural candida in our bodies. If you don’t have a healthy amount of probiotics in your diet, you risk the development of a yeast infection.

The majority of women who’ve had a yeast infection can self-diagnosis their condition and begin a treatment of choice immediately. For the lucky few who’ve never suffered from one, here are the most common yeast infection symptoms:
• Rash
• Fishy, yeasty, or cheesy odor
• Redness
• Soreness
• Swelling
• Burning sensation when you pee or have sex
• Severe itching around and inside your vagina

Your discharge might also appear different. It often takes on a thick, cheesy appearance. However, discharge can vary greatly due to hormones, or you might see no changes at all.

When You Should See Your Doctor

While natural remedies are often our go to method, sometimes they aren’t enough. Other cases, such as pregnancy and nursing mothers, should always consult their doctors before attempting any treatments.

See a doctor:

• If you’ve never had a yeast infection
• You’re pregnant
• You’re nursing
• Your yeast infection symptoms worsen
• Your symptoms don’t improve in 7-14 days

15 Natural Treatments for a Vaginal Yeast Infection

The good news is most natural treatments take household ingredients you probably already have on hand, essential oils in your cabinet, or you can easily find the ingredients in a grocery store or online.

Many women have found these treatments to be effective. Plus, they feel better using homeopathic, herbal, and natural remedies over conventional methods that expose them to antibiotics and further increase their resistance. In modern times, this is a large reason why women will seek alternative treatments because when antibiotic treatments become necessary, they want them to work.

Some stubborn infections might still require a conventional treatment. Medications can days before you actually feel the results and your yeast infection symptoms disappear. You can still use remedies alongside most conventional methods to relieve your symptoms immediately.

1. Yoghurt Dipped Tampon Suppository

Harvard Health states women might see relief by using a vaginal probiotic suppository.

This suppository method might be a good option for women who regularly use tampons. If you don’t, you should consider choosing a natural or organic brand to reduce irritation to your already sensitive vagina. You will also need a variety without an applicator.

DIY Vaginal Suppository

You will need:
• Tampon, no applicator
• Organic plain yoghurt, unsweetened, unflavored
Instructions:
1. Saturate the tampon in yoghurt
2. Insert tampon
3. Leave it for one hour
4. Repeat as needed or every 3 hours

If you’re also using an OTC suppository treatment, you’ll want to choose another method from the list.

2. Eat More Yoghurt

Women have used yoghurt to treat yeast infection symptoms for centuries. Numerous studies support its effectiveness too. Unlike other treatments, this method is completely safe for pregnant women who tolerate dairy (use a dairy free brand if you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or a vegetarian). Organic Greek yoghurt that is unflavored and unsweetened will be your best bet, but it must contain live cultures of lactobacillus acidophilus.

Eating a yoghurt a day can help support your good flora and keep the bad bacteria and fungus at bay.

3. Take a Probiotic Supplement or Premade Suppository
You can purchase probiotic supplements and suppositories nearly anywhere these days, but they’re not regulated by any single agency aside from USDA Certified Organic brands. Try to choose those over non-organic labels so that you know you’re buying the real deal. Make sure they contain active lactobacillus acidophilus cultures.

4. Organic Coconut Oil

A study performed on children found that coconut oil is effective at treating candida due to its antifungal properties. This can be helpful for treating the outside of the vagina, and you simply apply it directly to the affected area.

5. Tea Tree Essential Oil

Using the DIY suppository method, you can further increase its effectiveness by adding a few drops of tea tree essential oil to the yoghurt. Tea tree oil has multiple healing benefits, including antifungal. You can also use this method with coconut oil or jojoba oil and apply it as an ointment to the outside of your vagina.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Soak

Draw a lukewarm bath and add ½ cup of this remedy to your water. Soak for at least 20 minutes and repeat as necessary to ease symptoms. Apple cider vinegar does counteract harmful bacteria, but don’t confuse a soak with a douche. Douches flush out your vaginal canal and take away the good with the bad. Soaking allows your good bacteria to remain.

If you’re sensitive to the smell of vinegar, you can add your favorite essential oils and dried herbs to reduce the odor. The good news is you won’t smell like vinegar even if you don’t scent your water.

7. Eat Garlic

Garlic kills candida according to laboratory tests. Adding more of this healing herb might shorten the lifespan of your infection. Some women will chew a whole clove daily, but you might also prefer an odorless supplement. The upside is garlic has many health benefits.

Don’t apply garlic paste, cloves, or essential oil to your vaginal region. Studies reported burns as a side effect with topical treatments.

8. Vitamin C

Whether you eat vitamin C rich foods or take a supplement, many women swear by this for treating yeast and other infections. However, like garlic, you should avoid topical applications because of burn concerns.

Foods Rich in Vitamin C

• Red and Green Bell Peppers
• Kale
• Papaya
• Strawberries
• Broccoli
• Kiwi
• Mango
• Pineapple
• Oranges

9. Oil of Oregano Essential Oil

A 2001 study says you’ll require oil of oregano (Origanum vulgare) to treat a yeast infection. You won’t apply it to your vagina, but you can use it during aromatherapy sessions, as an inhalant, or you can apply it to your skin away from your vagina using a carrier oil, like coconut oil.

10. Aloe Vera Gel

Break open an Aloe Vera leaf and apply the gel directly to the affected area. A 2007 study found it reduced fungal activity. You might consider using a prepackaged gel, but you should be sure it’s organic and pure. Another option is to purchase leaves in the produce section of your grocery or natural foods store.

11. Drink Cranberry Juice

Cranberries have antioxidants, a large amount of vitamins, and antifungal properties. In natural medicine, women use it as both a treatment and preventive measure against yeast and urinary tract infections. Juts be sure to choose 100% cranberry juice, organic if possible, and avoid cocktails and blends. You can also eat whole, unsweetened cranberries too.

13. Green Tea

Tea, including green varieties, offer you immune support. The cooled tea bags double as a safe remedy for easing your symptoms too. Drink as much green tea as you like, but avoid sweetening it. Use the cooled or chilled tea bags as needed, and you can safely apply them directly to your vaginal area.

14. Peppermint Essential Oil

Well-diluted peppermint essential oil can alleviate your symptoms while its antifungal properties take care of the yeast. You can make a homemade rinse or add essential oil to your bath water. Don’t apply directly with a carrier oil as you might cause inflammation.

15. Epsom Salt Soak

Much like the apple cider vinegar remedy, you can use Epsom salts instead to ease your yeast infection symptoms and kill off fungus. Add 2 cups of the salts to your warm bath water. You can also use this with apple cider vinegar or your favorite essential oils, including peppermint, oil of oregano, and tea tree oil.

Final Thoughts on Yeast Infection Treatments

Yeast infections are common. Many of the remedies here derived from folk medicine. Some have scientific studies backing their effectiveness with promising results. Most of all, they’re natural options that pose little to no health risk.

Women can take precautions to lower their chances of another infection, but they’re not foolproof. Should an infection occur again, you can try one or more of the treatments. If your symptoms don’t clear up after seven to fourteen days, you should consult your doctor.

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