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

Psychologists Explain 6 Ways to Make Your Marriage Happier

Living happily ever after in a marriage isn’t always so simple and perpetually filled with happiness, as couples have to make an effort for their relationship to last for the long term. We all agree that in any relationship there will be some deal-breakers and compromises that need to be made. Nothing is ever perfect! Having said that, couples in a successful marriage know how to improve and tolerate, persuade and influence their better halves – a sure-fire recipe for a happier marriage.

Psychology Explains 6 Ways to Make Your Marriage Happier:

“Sensual pleasures have the fleeting brilliance of a comet; a happy marriage has the tranquility of a lovely sunset.” – Ann Landers

1. Use the right words and devices of persuasion carefully.

You’d like your husband to try out a new diet because you’re concerned about his health, but he’s not a fan of diets. You want your wife to take a vacation with her girlfriends because she’s too stressed at work and it’s affecting your home life, but she declines. So, how can you convince your spouse to do something they might not like to do? According to psychiatric nurse Allison Sweet-Grant via Redbook, you can try to change their mind by choosing the right words or devising subtle hints to elicit positive reactions.

Start by making small requests if they are resistant to make big changes. Persuade by hinting that certain people you know are doing the Keto diet successfully. Or make casual comments about this couple you know who take separate but enriching vacations.

These psychological tricks might seem manipulative. However, Grant said that if you want what’s best for your loved one or you know a change will be good for them, then convincing them to try something new isn’t a deception nor a manipulation.

2. Focus on positive thinking and positive things.

Many arguments between couples arise from differences in values, personality, lifestyle, and background. So, even if a wife tries hard year after year to change her husband, it might likely never happen.

A study from the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships showed that if your main focus in the marriage is in trying to change your spouse, then you could end up becoming dissatisfied and unhappy with each other. The better way is to focus on your partner’s positive traits and characteristics. Improve on these rather than trying to correct and change the behavior that annoys you.

According to psychologist Dr. Ted Houston, couples in a happy marriage know how to resolve conflicts and differences. More than that, however, their main focus is to perpetuate positivity in their relationship, as per Psychology Today.

3. Experience exciting things together.

Up for a date night? Ditch the pleasant and romantic candlelight dinners. Instead, do something adventurous and exciting. A study from 1993 followed couples for 10 weeks as they went on pleasant and exciting date nights. Couples who did novel and stimulating things together manifested more marital satisfaction compared to couples who shared activities that they’ve done many times before.

Spending time together won’t be enough, as you need to be engaged with each other to strengthen your bond. So, if you’ve been wining and dining to romantic music on most weekends, why not organize a trivia or game night with some of your friends, or register for a ballroom dancing class next time?

4. Dial down on the unrealistic expectations.

Everyone has expectations in relationships but those who feel that the best marriages should be magical, with elements of fairy tales, are doomed to be disillusioned. Bringing magic into a marriage is not solely about intense emotions, passion, and romance; it takes a lot of effort and work to keep that spark alive.

If you hold on to unrealistic expectations and use them as the basis for judging your partner’s actions, then you could be disappointed if he or she does not meet your standards. How often have you heard that unmet expectations cause problems in the marriage?

In long-term marriages, couples evolve from being lovers to comfortable companions, so it’s natural to lose that spark eventually. Your expectations from each other should not only be realistic but also flexible. Happiness will not be elusive if you acknowledge this in your relationship.

This isn’t to say, however, that you should not have expectations from each other since there’s no such thing as an unconditional love in a marriage. There are boundaries you’re expected to uphold. For instance, you can’t cheat on your partner over and over and expect forgiveness each time.

5. Make room for your own interests and pursuits.

When the relationship is new, couples only have eyes and time for each other. However, if your activities are centered on just the two of you after two years of marriage, then it’s no longer a healthy passion.

marriage

You need to make room for other things or people in your life, even if you’re married. It’s a good thing when couples find something to do together to connect. Even greater, however, is pursuing your own interests with other people. It’s for your own growth and development. In life, you never stop learning and discovering things about yourself. You won’t be able to do this if everything revolves around your spouse.

6. Always show appreciation and gratitude.

Showing gratitude is one of the most important elements of a happy marriage and it goes beyond saying “thank you” to your partner. You should specifically express your appreciation in words and deeds to affirm how you really feel. For instance, if you received a gift from your husband, you can also compliment him for being so thoughtful and generous.

A study from psychologists at the University of Georgia showed that couples who openly express and reciprocate their gratitude for each other have fewer arguments and higher marital satisfaction. Another study from experts at Berkeley stated that gratitude is a like a booster shot for long-lasting happy marriages.

Final Thoughts

All marriages go through rough patches. While some end up in divorce, plenty of couples manage to remain happy together after the challenges and trials. By following these tips and putting effort into your marriage, you’ll reap the rewards of a successful marriage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lO-TMrAyth4

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7 Ways to Fix A Broken Relationship (That Most People Ignore)

Relationships are complicated. At first, they may start magically, but it never stays that way. If you want to know how to fix a broken relationship, here are some tips that can bring the spark back.

Here’s how to fix a broken relationship (that most people don’t think make a difference):

harmful

1. Let go of social media!

Three billion people are on social media. That means that when you talk negatively about your broken relationship on social media, up to 3 billion people can see it! Many people use social media to vent and express themselves, but that only allows people into their personal lives. It can also create quite the divide between you and your partner. Your partner may feel that your friends won’t like them anymore or that you are the enemy. It will make the fight even worse! Just stay away from social media to learn how to fix a broken relationship. Keep those conversations between you and your partner, and stick to sharing memes and pictures of your latest culinary accomplishment.

2. Get a makeover

Sometimes people let themselves go after a certain amount of time in a relationship. Increasing the spark is essential, so get a sexy makeover for a date night! Do it on a night when you know you and your partner have plans. Wear a sexy dress and heels, do your makeup, and don’t forget the sexy lingerie! It will allow you and your partner to connect like you did in the beginning. Be sure not to spend too much money to cause another fight if that’s an area of contention for you. You can do wonders with the things you have in your own closet!

3. Set healthy boundaries

There are things that you should never have to put up within a relationship. There are obvious things that will not be tolerated including:

  • physical abuse
  • sexual abuse
  • theft
  • emotional abuse
  • cheating

These are just a couple of extreme examples, and you should end any toxic relationship. You have your boundaries, and you need to set strong boundaries to avoid a relationship that makes you feel uncomfortable. Remember that your partner will have their own boundaries. While this is important, you also want to make a point to be reasonable in your expectations if you want to know how to fix a broken relationship.

4. Stay close together

Many people come to a point in their relationship where they have to decide between staying together or physically separating. If your relationship is important to you, it is extremely important to stay together physically. Long-distance relationships are almost always doomed. It can lead to boredom and loneliness. These things can lead to temptation and developing a life without your partner. If you want to know how to fix a broken relationship, come back together!

5. Be attentive to your partner

You never want your partner to feel neglected, so be sure to go out of your way to talk to them about what is going on in their lives. Make time for each other and truly listen. While this should go both ways, make a point to take the first steps. While talking to your partner, you can bring up things that you need from them. This can take a broken relationship to a loving relationship more quickly than anything.

6. Focus on yourself

Your relationship is the most important thing in your life, but there are other things that need attention, too. Make a point to work on your career, relationships with your friends and family, health, and other things. It’s desirable to see your partner bettering themselves, and it might even convince them to follow your example.

how to fix a broken relationship

7. Laugh

When you stop laughing in your relationship, that’s a very negative sign. Always make a point to joke around with your significant other and have a good time. If you want to know how to fix a broken relationship, just lighten up and watch a funny movie or start a food fight. Create private jokes and enjoy each other.

If you’re wondering how to fix a broken relationship, these are some tips that should help. If these don’t help, your relationship might be too far gone to be saved. Don’t forget that you always have the option to move on from a relationship, too.

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

6 Reasons Why Men Leave Women They Love

Relationships are, at times, unpredictable. The back and forth banter in a man’s mind greatly influences every decision concerning relationships. It is possible to be in an incredible relationship with a man who shows nothing but adoration for a woman only to wake up to the news that the man is no longer interested in the relationship. Before a majority of men arrive at such a decision, they will have considered every angle to the relationship, most likely without consulting anyone. This is why such decisions leave some women dumbstruck and with a myriad of questions about what could have gone wrong.

Only when a person probes into the issues affecting them does a man begin to open up and reveal what hurts their feelings. Some women laugh it off when a man begins to share their feelings of depression or hopelessness. This is probably because most of the time, men communicate by displaying anger but rarely get into the specifics of the particular issues that hurt their feelings. This article seeks to demystify why men leave women they love.

Here are 6 reasons why men leave women they love:

The Lack of Respect

Men find it incredibly challenging to build a life with a woman who shows little to no respect for them. In the contemporary society, many women misconstrue respect for a man for submission. Respect is not about the weaker or stronger sex and men wish women would understand this fact. Respect is crucial for any relationship to work. Partners should always show respect towards one another and appreciate each person’s uniqueness.

A man cannot feel loved or develop trust in a woman who continually disrespects him. Men often need to feel like their opinion matters. Additionally, they need to feel like the woman they love always has their back. The effect of ingrained respect in a relationship is two-fold. A highly respectful woman inspires a man to take greater risks knowing that he can achieve anything while still enhancing the commitment and tenderness the man has towards a woman.

If a man allows himself to be vulnerable and loves a woman, then he is aware that the woman will see his weaknesses. It is essential for a woman to show that she accepts the man with all his shortcomings, as the lack of respect is one of the reasons why men leave women they love.

Inability to Handle Emotion

Relationships evoke a lot of emotion. It is possible for such emotions to overwhelm a woman to the point that it affects the stability of a relationship. Some men are not equipped to handle high-level emotions and typically become distant due to the intensity of emotions. In contrast, some men can handle such situations. Mature men show a sense of calmness and often avoid unraveling when emotions run high. Maturity in a man instills stability in a relationship.

However, there are instances when even mature men are pushed beyond their limits and end up becoming distant. It is essential for couples to learn how to communicate more effectively to avoid emotions overpowering every disagreement or discussion. Therefore, an emotionally charged relationship is a potential cause of conflict and is one of the reasons why men leave women they love.

Feelings of Inadequacy

Feelings of inadequacy usually go hand-in-hand with the lack of respect. If a woman is overly aggressive and always wants to fix things in the relationship, then a man could feel pressured into thinking he is not good enough. Additionally, overly demanding women, and those who get into the habit of telling a man to try harder (e.g., during intimate moments), can make a man feel trampled on. Men find that the only way to handle such pressure is to run. Men who are always under pressure at home usually feel like they are never good enough and could easily block their hearts and minds. Subsequently, the man completely avoids facing his fears of inadequacy.

Some women drive their men to an abyss of inadequacy by forcing their partners to live above their means and by having too many expectations. For example, if a woman insists on getting a $1000 necklace even when her partner cannot afford it at the moment, then it is hardly surprising when the man begins to look for a way out. It is like cornering a terrified cat. The cat eventually finds a way out even if it means hurting the attacker on the way out.

A Sense of Competition

If a man always seems like he is competing for control in the relationship, then it only seems prudent to leave. A majority of men prefer a relationship where both partners complement one another as opposed to one controlling the other. Men prefer working together and not competing with their partners.

Physical Rejection

A majority of men often feel unloved if intimacy is left on the backburner in a relationship. If a woman consistently makes excuses not to be intimate with a man, then the man begins to feel dejected and likens the woman to a glorified roommate. The man could start getting misconstrued ideas about a woman’s priorities. Some women dress well for work or night-outs with their girls but fail to put in any effort around their men. This sends the message that the man means nothing in the relationship.

why men leave women they love

Some women also fall into the habit of diverting their full attention to their children and neglecting their men. Eventually, a man begins to feel sexually and emotionally rejected, and this might be the tipping point in the man’s mind. These are some of the significant reasons why men leave women they love.

A Sense of Loss of Freedom

A relationship characterized by a high number of negative interactions as opposed to positive ones easily dissuades a man from staying in a relationship, and it is likely that the man will seek a form of release or a way out. Healthy and emotionally intimate relationships invoke devotion and commitment in a man while negative interactions stifle a man’s sense of freedom. The man could feel like he cannot be genuine to himself in a bid to avoid arguments.

Great relationships allow partners to be their genuine selves without any fear of judgment. If a man feels like he has to be a different person around his partner, then this is enough to make him leave. A relationship that makes a man feel stifled shows a man that he will only receive negativity as the woman tries to “fix” what is wrong with him. The issues discussed here are the common reasons why men leave women they love.

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10 Delicious Whole Food Recipes You Can Make On A Budget

Are you one of those people who skips making food at home because it’s simply cheaper to buy fast food? You know that eating at home and preparing your dishes from raw ingredients is best for your health. It is also a creative way of spending time at home. (And isn’t it great to see your own creation turn into a delicious meal?)

Well, where there is desire, there is a way. You can use the cheap whole food recipes given here to save yourself money and make healthy choices for yourself and your family. Additionally, these recipes will help you prepare your own whole food meals in a matter of minutes.

10 Delicious And Easy Whole Food Recipes

whole foods market

Greek Roasted Fish

For this traditional Greek recipe, you will need:

  • 5 small potatoes, cut into wedges
  • 1 sliced onion
  • 2 chopped garlic cloves
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp dried or fresh oregano
  • 1/2 lemon, cut in wedges
  • 2 large tomatoes, cut into wedges
  • 2 skinless fish fillets
  • Roughly chopped parsley to taste

Heat your oven to 350-390 degrees Fahrenheit. Tip the onion, garlic, oregano, potatoes, and olive oil into a roasting tin. Season them, and mix well. Roast for 15 minutes, turn over the ingredients, and roast for another 15 minutes. Add the tomatoes and lemon. Bake for another 10 minutes. Add the fish fillets, and cook for another 10 minutes. Take out the dish, and sprinkle with parsley.

Spinach and Sweet Potato Breakfast Hash

Ingredients:

  • 2 sweet potatoes, cut and peeled into small cubes
  • 1 large bag of spinach
  • 1 egg
  • Salt and pepper

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place a baking sheet, and lightly spray with a cooking spray. Place the cubes on it. Bake until the fork goes through them. Turn the cubes once while cooking.

Meanwhile, use a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat to wilt the spinach until it becomes soft. Place the sweet potatoes in a dish, and add the spinach on top. Crack an egg into a pan over a cooking spray. Once it’s done, place on top of the spinach and potatoes. Add salt and pepper, and serve.

Almond Butter Bar

To make this whole food recipe, heat one cup of almond butter and 3/4 cup of honey in a saucepan on low heat. Stir until it melts, and remove from heat. Pour it over three cups of oats. Stir well. Pour and press into a baking pan, and bake for 15 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

Avocado Smoothe

Smoothies are the peak of whole food dishes. To make an avocado smoothie, blend one cubed avocado, two chopped bananas, and 400 ml (four ounces) of milk in a blender. Mix until all ingredients are creamed, and drink up.

whole food

Lentil Ratatouille

The famous French recipe has a cheap whole food version you can make at home. For this one, you will need these ingredients:

  • 1 cup of dry lentils
  • 1 small cubed eggplant
  • 2 cans of diced tomatoes
  • 2 large chopped onions
  • 1 sliced and chopped sweet pepper
  • 2 summer squash
  • 1/2 cup of water
  • A pinch of black pepper

In a slow cooker, combine lentils, eggplant, and tomatoes. Add the onions, sweet pepper, water, black pepper, and summer squash. Cover, and cook on low heat for 8 to 9 hours or high heat for 4 hours.

Black Bean Soup

Combine 10 ounces of rinsed and drained beans and 8 cups of water in a large pot. Boil. Reduce the heat. Simmer for 10 minutes. Cover, and let it stand for an hour. Drain the beans. Transfer the beans to the slow cooker. Put in 1 chopped onion, 1 jalapeno pepper (if you want), 3 minced cloves of garlic, 6 cups of vegetable broth, 1 tbsp of chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. After it is done, mash the beans coarsely with a potato masher. Add 1/2 cup chopped cilantro, a couple of lime slices, and top off with sour cream.

Mexican Cauliflower With Rice

Pulse 4 cups of cauliflower florets in a blender. Heat 3 tablespoons of oil into a skillet on medium-high heat. Add 1/2 cup of onion and 1 jalapeno pepper that are both finely chopped. Stir until the ingredients are soft. Add 1/4 cup of crushed tomatoes, the blended cauliflower florets, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 tsp cumin. Cook for 5 more minutes or until the cauliflower is soft. Add cilantro when done, and serve with lime wedges.

Tomato Soup

Put 2 pounds of chopped tomatoes, 1 carton of vegetable stock, 2 cups of chopped vegetables of choice, 1 can of tomato paste, 1 tsp of sugar, and 1/4 tsp of salt into a pot. Cook on low heat, and serve hot.

Whole Wheat Couscous

Bring 2/3 cup of water to a boil. Add 1/2 cup of whole wheat couscous, and stir until the water is absorbed completely. Fluff with a fork, and season to taste.

Grilled Asparagus

Preheat the grill. Put 1 bunch of asparagus into 1 tbsp of olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp of ground pepper. After seasoning, grill the asparagus for 5 to 10 minutes.

Easy Recipes

Cooking has never been easier with these whole food recipes. Whole food eating is healthier for you, and a tight budget should not be a reason to consent to less. Dig in with these recipes, and create unique meals each day.

10 Evidence Based Health Benefits of Coconut Oil For Skin

Coconut oil is a fantastic superfood that works wonders inside and outside our bodies.

More than 1,500 studies indicate that it is truly a natural miracle potion. Now that medical research recognizes the immense benefits of saturated fats such as those found in this oil, more people are turning to this priceless treasure for a wide range of benefits. It is steadily gaining popularity as a staple in cooking, health, and beauty regimens.

Boost your savings and your health by using coconut oil for your skin instead of expensive synthetic ingredients. Not only is this oil significantly more cost-effective, it is more effective in penetrating your skin due to its lower molecular weight and how it bonds with proteins. Beauty enthusiasts and health professionals constantly discover new uses and advantages of coconut oil for the skin. So here are a few.

Here are the top ten ways to use coconut oil for skin:

coconut oil

Body Butter

Add coconut oil to other skin-loving ingredients such as shea butter, jojoba oil, and your favorite essential oils. Apply generously after bathing. The saturated fats in these oils help slow down moisture loss through the skin and give the skin an even, smooth, and healthy tone.

Deodorant

Say goodbye to toxic store-bought deodorants and replace them with this miracle oil. Make your own non-irritating deodorant with just a few health-promoting ingredients.

Facial Scrub

Combine oil with sugar to exfoliate and moisturize your skin. This can be used all over your body, too.

Detox Bath

Add ¼ cup of oil, ¼ cup of Epsom salts, and a few drops of essential oils to a hot bath for a quick detoxing bath. Exercise caution as the tub may be slippery.

Body Oil

To treat extremely dry skin, use this oil instead of chemical-laden body lotions. Lightly coat problem areas like the feet, knees, and elbows.

Cuticle Oil

Home manicures can be a breeze now. Rub the oil into your cuticles to protect against germs and loosen cuticles.

Shaving Gel

This oil wears yet another hat: shaving gel. It offers moisture and protection against razor burn and ingrown hairs. Simply apply to skin, shave, and dry for silky smoothness.

Sunscreen

Coconut oil provides minimal sunblock protection, roughly SPF 4. However, it is quite effective in soothing and rehydrating sunburnt skin.

Skin Disorders

This oil contains lauric and caprylic fatty acids, which reduce internal and external inflammation. It also contains many antioxidants that augment its healing properties for the skin. It is antimicrobial, so it can balance out fungi that cause many skin problems. With great success, this oil has consistently been used to treat burns, dandruff, dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

Cold Sores

A dab of oil will help accelerate healing and reduce pain and scarring. The antimicrobial and disinfectant properties of caprylic, lauric, and capric acids help protect against infections, too.

Diaper Rash

No one is too young to experience the benefits of coconut oil for the skin. Apply a tablespoon over the diaper area to protect against or soothe diaper rash.

Insect Repellent

Keep chemicals and bugs at bay by making your repellent. Combine one cup of oil with forty to fifty drops of insect-hating oils like clove, mint, lemongrass, and citronella. You will need to apply more often, but your skin will be nourished and not assaulted by toxic ingredients.

Night Cream

You can use this versatile oil as a stand-alone night treatment or add a little to your favorite face cream. It will boost your skin’s ability to repair itself as you sleep and help maintain hydration.

coconut oil

While you can safely apply coconut oil directly onto your skin or as a carrier for your favorite essential oils and blends for skin care, you can also boost your overall health by including it in your daily diet. Organic, extra virgin oil lends a subtle tropical flavor to foods, has a high melt point, and provides the benefits you expect. Avoid refined oil; bleaching, overheating, and chemical processes alter the chemical makeup and strip away the healing power of the oil.

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. It needs and deserves the best of care. Coconut oil for skin virtually replaces a cabinet of “must-have” synthetic products that expose your pores to unhealthy chemicals. This incredible ingredient is your at-home dermatologist for a plethora of skin treatments. Amaze your skin for a fraction of the cost of unnatural remedies with coconut oil.

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Researchers Reveal How Meat Filled With Cancer and Other Disease Is Still Sold to Consumers

Researchers are very clear on the topic of meat and cancer. Many types of meat, especially red meat, are linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer. Of course, you may think that you’re safe if you don’t eat that particular product too often but still consume processed meat, such as bacon, ham, sausages, and so on. Well, we’ve got some bad news – those aren’t too good for you either. In fact, the WHO has a list of very clear statistics on their website about the carcinogenic qualities of both red and processed meat.

With those frightening statistics coming out about commonly sold meats, many more customers are turning to local butchers and farmers’ markets to find out the healthier cuts. But even that hasn’t turned out to be safe. An experienced butcher has confessed that he has seen his colleagues cut out cancerous portions of meat, yet still sold the healthier-looking part to unwitting customers.

While this may be shocking to some, it may not be completely surprising news. For years, the FDA has been trying to exercise stricter control over the meat that enters the food chain. However, as demand keeps growing every year, manufacturers are struggling to cope and are having to resort to desperate measures to save their businesses. Recent studies have shown varying percentages of all sorts of things in meat that aren’t beef, pork, chicken or lamb, – including dog meat, horse meat, and human DNA (most likely from saliva or other bodily fluids from meat processing factories).

However, if you’re feeling desperate at this bleak picture, think positively. There are a few different things you can do to ensure that you’re healthy and enjoying your favorite food at the same time.

Here Are Some Things to Do to Ensure Your Favorite Food Is Healthy for You

“Processed meats fall into the same category that cigarette smoking does with lung cancer. In other words, it’s an item that causes cancer at some point in the future if you consume high amounts.” – Dr. Alok Khorana

1. Raise Your Own Food

First, the only way to ensure that any produce is fresh and risk-free is to produce it yourself. If you see something grow in front of you and nurture it, then you know for a fact what goes near it. You know how to get rid of anything that might be a problem. However, that approach is increasingly less common. Additionally, with meat, it requires much more effort.

2. Check the Meat You Purchase

Second, always double- and triple-check the meat that you buy. Whether it’s from your local butcher or the supermarket, there’s nothing easier than doing a quick check to see if everything looks normal. A healthy cut should look the part, with no discolored sections, no odd growths. Also, there should be no reluctance on the part of the grocer to show where the meat has come from. Any self-respecting meat merchant needs to be open about the true source of their products; otherwise, you may be looking at something suspicious.

3. Eat Less Meat

Third, you can try to include less meat in your diet. It doesn’t mean that you should stop altogether – even though that would, admittedly, be your healthiest option. Simply reduce the amounts that you consume on a week-to-week basis. Try looking into replacement proteins such as seitan and tofu. While they might not look appetizing, once cooked they can sometimes rival the flavor of your favorite meats!

4. Cut Meat from Your Diet

Last but not least, cut out animal products altogether. After going on a vegan diet, many people note various health benefits related to the increase of fiber and vegetable protein in their diet. Many might believe that animal products are an invaluable source of protein; however, that’s not the case. In fact, a lot of people who choose to go vegan report almost immediate health benefits as a result. Organizations such as The Vegan Society of America and PETA have many helpful tips on their website if you decide to cut out all animal products from your diet.meat

Final thoughts

The American Institute for Cancer Research has issued some helpful tips on balancing your diet to remain healthy and reduce your cancer risk at the same time. Processed and red meat might be an indispensable part of your day-to-day life. Before consuming them, however, it’s important to consider just how pure and healthy those meats are.

Confessions from butchers may indicate that meats they sell simply are not pure. With disease rife among some populations of cattle, it’s never been more important to be careful. But remember positive thinking – it’s not impossible to include healthy meat in your diet.

Be aware of what diseased meat looks like and know the people that you’re buying it from. Many times, the healthiest variety is bought from farmers and producers that you know personally, and you know the conditions in their farms.

And if you’re feeling like making a lifestyle change – why not go vegan instead? Not only will you be helping fight climate change, but also you’ll be able to definitively say where your food has come from. Either way – staying healthy is the main thing, so find a diet and approach that works for you. Then stick to it!

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Scientists Explain Why Running Isn’t That Great For You (And What To Do Instead)

Now, before you runners get things all “twisted,” please understand that the writer isn’t saying that running isn’t beneficial – under the right conditions. Indeed, running can be healthy, and most certainly for the cardiovascular system. But running probably isn’t the best form of physical activity; in fact, Harvard Medical School doesn’t even list running in the top five.

To clarify a bit more: when we say running, we mean running; not jogging. Here is a breakdown of both by:

  • Pace: Jogging is defined as going six miles per hour (MPH), max. Running is anything over above that benchmark.
  • Muscle activity: The faster the pace, the less time your legs spend impacting the ground. Look at sprinters (sprinting is an excellent workout by the way.) Most sprinters have lean, athletic builds. Contrast the sprinter physique with that of marathon runners, who often have a very slender build.
  • Oxygen consumption: Running has jogging beat in this category. More intense exercise requires the body to spend more time and expend more energy “recovering” depleted oxygen reserves. As a result, the body burns more calories post-workout (also known as the “after-burn” effect.)

The Dangers of Prolonged, Intensive Exercise

“Strenuous exercise is thought to put additional stress on the cardiovascular system. Marathon running has … been associated with sudden death in several instances.” – Alice G. Walton

shin splintsWhile running once or twice a week to shed a few pounds won’t hurt, years of very intense exercise is potentially debilitating, even deadly. Dr. Peter Schnohr, a cardiologist and leading researcher who led the over 5000-person, 12-year Copenhagen City Heart Study, found that joggers had a 358% lower chance of death than non-joggers. Interestingly, high-intensity runners had the same rate of death as people who performed little to no exercise.

The people with the lowest death rate? Light joggers.

Dr. Schnohr, noting that light jogging falls into the “vigorous” exercise category, warns that strenuous jogging poses “health risks, especially to the cardiovascular system” when performed over the long term.

What to Do for Exercise Instead of Running

“If your goal is to decrease risk of death and improve life expectancy, jogging a few times a week at a moderate pace is a good strategy. Anything more [such as running] is not just unnecessary, it may be harmful.” – Peter Schnohr, MD (source)

So, what are some alternatives to running?

Here are five:

1. Aerobic exercise:

Moderate types of aerobic exercise – e.g., biking, brisk walking, and jogging – are excellent for promoting heart health, burning calories, and boosting mood. A simple rule to remember: if you’re unable to talk to someone while doing cardio, you’re most likely pushing too hard. Besides possibly damaging your heart, you may also cause real problems for your bones, joints, and muscles.

Try getting at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise four days per week.

2. Resistance training:

Strength training with free weights, weight machines, resistance bands, and body-resistance exercises can help burn belly fat and create lean muscle mass. Studies show that a combination of aerobic exercise and strength training may lower bad cholesterol levels as well.

Try mixing in two nonconsecutive days of resistance training per week.

3. Circuit training:

Circuit training involves a variety of strength training exercises with little or no rest between sets. While this type of exercise will surely get your heart pumping, most circuit training programs and techniques call for just a few minutes per cycle.

While circuit training is classified as a resistance type of exercise, you may also incorporate some cardio as well. Every other week, do circuits in place of either aerobic or resistance training.

running

4. Rowing:

For those of us who hate the idea of a stationary bike or treadmill, a rowing machine is a great option. Rowing machines provide an excellent upper-body workout, including the lat muscles in the lower back. Rowing also works on the leg’s calve muscles, quadriceps, and hamstrings.

This exercise can be done as either a complimentary exercise or standalone workout.

5. Yoga:

Yoga is the ultimate flexibility and durability workout. Moderate to advanced yoga will also give you one heck of an upper body workout. Authentic “guru-inspired” yoga brings benefits to both mind and body. For this reason, make sure to do your research before signing up for anything.

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The Amazing Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar For Treating Acne

Acne can be one of the most annoying and embarrassing things to have to deal with. It can put you in a bad mood, or even a panic if you had a special event planned. While there are plenty of lifestyle changes you can make in order to prevent breakouts from happening, it seems like there’s always the one that still slips through to ruin your day.

Apple cider vinegar can help treat your acne after its already made an appearance. It helps the breakout heal faster while also helping to eliminate scars in the process. This can be especially helpful if your acne is particularly stubborn and you get frequent breakouts. This article will cover some reasons you should consider using apple cider vinegar (ACV), as well as things to make sure you’re aware of to help make the process go as smooth as possible.

Should You Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne?

Using apple cider vinegar for acne can be a great idea, and there are many ways to incorporate it into your beauty routine. One reason you should consider using ACV is that it has antibacterial properties.

Acne is caused when there is a build-up of dirt, oil, or other particles in the pores of your skin. This can become infected and result in the pus that some people enjoy squeezing out of their pimples. This is actually a bad idea because not only can it spread the bacteria, but it will also keep your acne from healing quickly. The lactic acid in apple cider vinegar helps prevent this by destroying the bacteria that causes your breakout. It also helps reduce scarring for most people.

Tips for Using Apple Cider Vinegar for Acne

There are basically two different ways to use ACV for its acne-reducing benefits. You can either drink it in the morning or you can make a paste or scrub out of it and apply it directly to the affected area. The drink can be very bitter tasting by itself, so many people opt to mix it into something. For example, you could make a lemonade or smoothie drink and use apple cider vinegar as one of the ingredients.

The easiest way to topically apply the apple cider vinegar is as a toner. Mix two tablespoons into two cups of water. You can also add a teaspoon of aloe vera gel to provide further anti-inflammatory benefits. Then, simply spray this mixture on your face for the full effect.

Another way to use ACV is to mix two tablespoons with three tablespoons of baking soda. This will make a paste that you can apply. Leave it on for twenty minutes and then wash it off.

Things to be Aware of

If you are applying ACV directly to your skin for acne treatment, then there are a few things you need to be aware of. First, you should definitely do a patch test on a smaller area of skin. You can apply it to your hand or inner elbow to make sure you aren’t allergic. The last thing you want during an acne breakout is an additional allergic rash.

Another thing you need to watch out for is that you aren’t putting it on any broken skin. This could lead to additional health problems and only end up making things worse.

apple cider vinegar

Lastly, you will need to make sure you always dilute your vinegar. The strong acids contained in ACV applied directly to your face can cause damage that may be painful. Try to mix with equal parts water or more in order to get a great product that will help your acne.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many benefits to using ACV as a way to treat your acne. It can help clear up breakouts by using one of the methods described, and the lactic acid it contains can have a chemical peeling effect to reduce acne scars. Overall, this is a great and natural product to try at home.

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

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11 Surprising Ways to Use Long Pepper

When you are looking for an exciting new addition to your spice cabinet, you may find long pepper, a spice native to India. While it is often confused with the chili pepper family, it is closely related to the plant that produces black pepper. In Indian grocery stores, long pepper is easily available and is called “pippali.”

The flavor of the long pepper is more complex than that of the black pepper. Spice experts have compared the taste to popular Indian spice blends like garam masala. The pepper has a longer finish on the palate, and the flavor reminds some people of tobacco.

This beneficial ingredient lesser-known in the United States. Still, you should not overlook its culinary and health applications. Here are ten fantastic ways to use the long pepper in cooking as well as for your health.

11 Amazing Ways to Use Long Pepper

1. This Special Pepper Fights Cancer

The active ingredient in this pepper, piperlongumine or PL, has been shown to fight against many different types of cancers. Prostate, lung, and breast cancers are among those affected. Long pepper benefits are exciting for people with cancer and other chronic illnesses.

2. This Amazing Pepper is a Traditional Medicine

In India, this pepper is important in Ayurvedic medicine. Scientific studies are beginning to show long pepper benefits in a serious light.

3. Use it in Curry Dishes

This delicious pepper is a perfect ingredient for use in curry dishes. It is especially good with red meat curry dishes, such as those in Indonesian and Thai cuisine. It is also great with savory vegetables. When you use this pepper in your curry, you will achieve an authentic flavor that isn’t possible with supermarket blends.

4. This Pepper Encourages Weight Loss

Along with its other fantastic qualities, long pepper benefits a healthy body while helping with weight loss. It helps the body to burn fat and metabolize food.

5. Spice Up your Love Life

This pepper is also a traditional aphrodisiac in Indian culture. Its properties are listed in the Kama Sutra. Consuming this pepper may bring you happiness in the bedroom as well as in the kitchen.

6. Use it to Fight Diabetes

While this pepper isn’t a cure-all, it has documented benefits for diabetics. It helps to regulate blood glucose and to encourage insulin production.

7. Good for Stomach Ailments

While too much long pepper may cause stomach upset, using it in moderation may help with many types of digestive ailments. Diarrhea, constipation, and even infectious digestive diseases like cholera may be eased with this pepper.

8. Make Delicious Tea

Combine one-half tablespoon of this pepper with cardamom seeds, six cinnamon sticks, and four slices of fresh ginger. Simmer these ingredients in two quarts of water for thirty minutes. Strain the tea and add milk and honey to taste. This preparation is the famous “yogi tea.” It is an easy way to incorporate the benefits of this pepper in your daily diet.

long pepper

9. Traditionally Used for Allergies

In Ayurvedic medicine, this pepper is used to help with springtime allergies. It can help with sniffling, sneezing, and mucus production. Spicy foods in general are good for congestion and sinus problems.

10. Substitute for Black Pepper

You can use long pepper anywhere you would normally use black pepper. It provides a special flavor that will stand out in your everyday dishes. Unlike black pepper, it is tricky to grind. Try using a mortar and pestle, food processor, or microplane grater. You will find success with any of these methods.

11. Good for Menstrual Problems

This pepper is also great for menstrual problems such as cramps. Drink the “yogi tea” whenever you are having difficulties.

Final Thoughts

While this spice may be obscure, it has a host of exciting benefits for the entire body. Medical studies are beginning to show that this pepper has clear and documented uses for diabetes, weight loss, cancer, seasonal allergies, and menstrual difficulties. Add this incredible superfood to your diet and reap the benefits of this traditional Indian ingredient.

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