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

How To Use Oranges To Get Long, Lustrous Hair

Oranges are a little-known secret in the natural beauty toolkit. Since oranges are loaded with healthy vitamin C and folic acid, it’s no surprise that they contribute to your overall health. When you are searching for natural ways to enhance the beauty of your hair, you may be surprised to find that this delicious fruit can make your hair long and lustrous.

Oranges for hair can help to alleviate an oily scalp as well as lessen dandruff. They also promote the strength of hair and lessen hair loss. Sweet orange essential oil can be used along with the juice and ground peels of the orange fruit. Discover how many ways you can enhance the growth and appearance of your hair by using this miracle fruit.

How to use Oranges to get Long, Lustrous Hair

Eating the fruit enhances your overall health, which leads to the beauty of your skin and hair. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which fights against cancer, sun damage, and the hardening of the arteries. It is necessary for healthy cell functions throughout the body. It also promotes blood flow to the scalp, which makes hair grow and flourish. Along with encouraging hair growth, vitamin C also strengthens the hair and makes it less prone to breakage and hair loss.

Different parts of the fruit can be used for different applications. Here are some of the many ways to use
oranges for hair.

To Promote Shine and Natural Glow

Combine the juice of one orange with one teaspoon of honey and a little water. Apply this conditioner to your freshly washed hair. Allow the conditioner to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. When you rinse it out, you will be impressed by how soft and shiny it is.

To Alleviate Dandruff

Dandruff, or a flaky, dry scalp, is an uncomfortable and sometimes embarrassing condition. When you are searching for a remedy, consider using oranges.

Dry orange peels in the sun. When they are dry, put them in a blender to make a powder. Use this powder and water to make a paste. Apply this paste to your scalp and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. When you are finished, rinse with lukewarm water. You should find that your dandruff has been lessened. Your scalp will be soothed by the power of orange peels and you will not experience as much flakiness.

To Promote Shine and Health

This easy hair mask will encourage your hair to grow while lessening breakage. Chop up a whole orange, peel and all, and puree it in the blender. Apply this mask to your hair once a week and you’ll be impressed by its strength and shine. To maximize the benefits of this mask, wrap your hair in a warm, damp towel while it sits on your hair. This will encourage the mask to penetrate to the scalp.

Control an Oily Scalp

Fresh oranges are not the only ingredient for soft and shiny hair. You can also use sweet orange essential oil to control greasy hair and an oily scalp. To take advantage of the power of sweet orange essential oil, mix vinegar or lemon juice with a few drops of oil. This combination of powerful ingredients will make your hair soft and shiny and lessen the oil on your scalp. Leave the mixture on your hair for a few minutes to fully experience the benefits.

oranges

Brighten Hair

Orange juice can brighten hair naturally, much like lemon juice. Since orange juice is not as acidic, the effect is more subtle. Comb orange juice into your hair and sit in the sun. You will find a gradual highlighting effect that will look more natural than if you used lemon juice.

Final Thoughts

Using the power of oranges to enhance your hair is easy. Make fun and simple hair conditioners and masks using fresh orange, dried orange peel, and essential oils. Whichever method you choose, your hair will be soft, strong, and less oily. You will notice that dandruff has been lessened. You will also be less prone to hair loss and breakage. Share your fresh, new beauty secret with your friends.

7 Evening Habits That Will Make Tomorrow Morning Better

Developing positive evening habits is vital to your success in life and at work. It will help you gain the energy and motivation to face the challenges of the next day. We all know the importance of starting your day with positive thinking and a positive attitude, but know that it’s equally important to end the day with good evening habits so your next morning will be better.

Remember that your evening preparation will be the reason for your success the following day. Have you wondered why evening habits make tomorrow better? That’s because a great evening relaxes you, helps you unwind, and also recharges you so that when tomorrow comes you’re in the best physical, mental, and emotional state.

Here Are 7 Evening Habits That Will Make Tomorrow Morning Better

“Some people dream of success, while other people get up every morning and make it happen.” – Wayne Huizenga

1. Plan out what your next day should be like.

Before bedtime, make a list of things you have to do tomorrow. If possible, set the times for these activities so that you’ll have a clearer idea of your schedule in your head. Planning your day gives you a brief visual concept of what to expect the next day. It will also steer you from distractions that can hamper your productivity.

Listing down your goals the night before allows your subconscious to continuously work and generate ideas. A study from the Dominican University of California revealed that people who wrote down their goals daily were 43 percent more likely to accomplish them. People become their thoughts and if you train your mind to think of your goals even when you’re sleeping, you are maximizing your capacity to become a success.

2. Prepare your things for tomorrow.

What can quickly mess up your day? Ever notice that when you’re rushing and cramming in the morning, you feel more stressed and out of sync with yourself? You likely also tend to waste time making more mistakes than you need to.

To avoid this and save precious time, always prepare what you need for tomorrow. Set out the clothes you’ll wear, including your accessories or socks, or clean up and organize the contents of your purse. If you’re in the habit of packing lunch to work, prepare what you need in the kitchen too, so that it will be easier to cook in the morning.

If you make these small adjustments, you avoid struggling every morning. Instead, you can channel your energy to other things that will make your day more productive.

3. Make your family a priority.

There’s nothing like winding down the day with your loved ones. Despite your busy day, you must keep and honor family rituals after dinnertime. (In other words, you set the work aside.) It’s emotionally beneficial to take advantage of this bonding time because, in a few short years, your kids will be out of your house. You can always have work to fall back on, but you can never bring back the time you should have spent with family.

So, read to your younger kids before tucking them to bed. For older kids, a private and personal time with mom or dad can strengthen the bonds of trust and togetherness.

4. Unplug when you’re winding down your day.

It’s easy to get stuck with screen time if you’re used to sleeping with a television in the bedroom or with gadgets by your bedside table. Apart from other negative health effects, habits of being addicted to devices promotes “randomness” that messes with your sleep.

Motivational speaker and trainer Brendon Burchard said that when you do random things when you should be winding down at night, your brain remains activated. You’re still using and draining energy that should have been reserved for rest. It might be challenging to keep electronics off in your bedroom, but realize that you do need a rest from these both mentally and physically.

5. Shift your mood to positive.

When you lie in bed at night, don’t think about what you’re supposed to do the next day, the deadlines you need to accomplish, or bills you have to pay. When your mind starts racing, it could be impossible to turn off and you’re likely not going to get a good sleep as a result.

A study from researchers at the Binghamton University in New York found links between poor quality sleep and nagging, repetitive thoughts. So, force yourself to think positive thoughts and shut down the negative ideas, at least when it’s time to rest.

You won’t be able to act on a problem at work anyway if it’s midnight and the rest of your co-workers are likely already snoozing. So, deal with the problem in the morning and at the proper place – at work. In the bedroom, welcome positive thoughts and moods.

6. End your day with gratitude.

Establish a routine where you end your day by expressing gratitude before you go to sleep. It might be for the most mundane things, such as having new bed sheets, or a meaningful event that took place earlier, such as getting recognized during a board meeting.

A study revealed that if you put more attention on the positive things that have happened to you, you’re likely to increase your life satisfaction, energy, and emotional health. It might be even better to share this gratitude with your family too. So, why not create habits of encouraging each other to discuss the best parts of your day during dinner?

habits

7. Do mental exercises in the dark.

When the lights are off, close your eyes and create stories in your head as you try to fall asleep. Use your imagination to daydream. If possible, heighten your senses with some instrumental music that’s great for bedtime.

Imagine visiting places and people you’d like to see. You can let your thoughts run wild, in this case, as imagination has no limitations. Olympians apparently use mental stimulation and visualization to prepare themselves for competition the next day.

Final Thoughts

When you follow a good bedtime routine, you’ll also have a splendid morning routine. Developing these habits will alleviate the unnecessary stress of a busy morning. You also avoid draining your physical energy or getting into tough encounters with people that could be otherwise avoided.

Scientists Explain What Makes Men and Women Parent Differently (And Why They’re Both Important)

“The best kind of parent you can be is to lead by example.” – Drew Barrymore

Parenting is a difficult job, and a lot of times it’s something that you learn as you go. Ultimately, different sets of parents always have different goals for what they want their children to achieve, which leads to significant differences in parenting worldwide. And after all, every child is different also and no mold fits everyone. However, is it true that there are differences between mothers and fathers as parents, too?

Science Explains How Men and Women Parent Differently

A number of studies conducted over the years suggest that mothers and fathers approach parenthood differently. According to a 2007 article by Glenys Conrade and Robert Ho, men normally see their fathers as the authoritative parent and mothers as the more permissive parent, whereas with women it was the other way around. Other research demonstrated that, even when it comes to raising adolescents, mothers and fathers definitely have very distinct parenting styles.

Another study by the UK’s Parenting Research Center showed that dads can spend a lot less time discussing real-life issues such as relationships, growing up, and schoolwork. This can make them seem isolated and detached from their children. The study also demonstrated that fathers are less likely to be confrontational with their children.

The way a couple deals with their children can be affected by many factors. Research has shown that if a partner feels that their significant other is critical of or non-responsive to their parenting efforts, they may not perform that well as a parent. This was a common response seen in fathers in particular. Researchers adamantly conveyed that their findings show how the role of the mother is more or less still dominant in society when it comes to raising children.

The Role of A Mother and A Father in A Society

The study by the Parenting Research Center seemed to confirm this suspicion – in 84% of the cases, the household rules were set by the mother. This makes them more confident in their interactions with children, but also more likely to suffer from depression, feelings of unfulfillment, and anxiety about their family’s future.

Conditions such as postpartum depression play a significant factor in this as well. Over 70% of women will experience postpartum depression – or “baby blues” – to at least some degree after giving birth. According to the study, this can be directly linked to the fact that mothers are expected to take on the brunt of parenting immediately after the birth of the child.

Such studies do not imply that one parent is doing more work than the other, or one parent is more concerned than the other in situations of parenting. Every family operates on its own set of rules. Every couple works out between themselves just how important every duty is and separates those duties accordingly. Despite the pronounced differences in parenting styles between moms and dads, they both have something different and valuable to bring to the table of their children’s lives.

The Father

Dads, on the one hand, are the ones who are normally tasked with bringing in the family income. This task is particularly emphasized right after the child is born – as maternity leave in most cases only extends to the one parent. In a nuclear family, fathers then project an image of stability. As the child grows, it is only natural that the father would be the more lenient parent. As a result, they may not be as close to their son or daughter as the mother. This easygoing nature establishes the father not just as an authoritative, bread-winner figure, but also as a friend. Fathers should want to be a parent children can always turn to.

parent

The Mother

On the other hand, mothers’ authoritative style of parenting is also very important. In our modern world, women still struggle to receive equal pay and equal rights to men. For this reason, every child should be taught to respect women and treat them equally. An ingrained respect for one’s mother is a great way to ensure this. Additionally, when a mother establishes herself as the home runner and the more authoritative parent, it will teach children positive thinking as well as the discipline they need to move forward successfully in life.

Final thoughts

Young parents can often struggle with parenting, especially when it comes to their first child. If you are in that situation, stay positive! Different things work best for different families. Above all, you and your partner should act as a team in your child’s eyes. Make sure that you do not encourage splitting behavior, which can be very damaging long-term. Also, think about your personal experiences with your own parents. Are there any pages you want to take out of the book of parenting? Any mistakes you want to avoid repeating? Finally, there is no guide on how to be a good parent. The good news is that we can learn as time goes on.

https://youtu.be/k99uas87S-M

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

10 Exceptional Benefits Of Apple Cider Vinegar For Glowing Skin

Apple cider vinegar is made from a mixture of sugar, yeast, and apples. Primarily, it is extracted from apples by crushing the apples. Crushing squeezes out the juice present in apples. To come up with apple cider vinegar, yeast and bacteria are added to the squeezed juice to allow it to ferment.

The sugars present in the juice are converted into alcohol. This alcohol is afterward turned into vinegar by the acetobacter. Most people know apple cider vinegar for its popularity in making salads and chutneys and for food preservation.

However, research shows that apple cider vinegar displays tremendous results when used for beauty purposes.

Apple cider vinegar for skin can do the following:

apple cider vinegar

Balance the skin’s PH

The skin has a naturally regulated PH balance. However, due to the frequent use of different beauty products, the skin’s natural PH balance is offset.

Measure a half cup of apple cider vinegar and dilute it with a half cup of water. Use the resulting solution to cleanse your skin using a clean cotton cloth. Leave the mixture on your skin for about 15 to 30 minutes.

Repeat the procedure for some days, and it will help you restore your skin’s natural PH balance.

Remedy aging skin

Apple cider vinegar for skin can eliminate dead skin cells causing aging. Bathing in apple vinegar for a couple of weeks can immensely help in getting rid of aging spots. Today, it is interesting that even the old grannies are moving mountains to look younger. No need for plastic surgeries anymore. Your remedy is cider vinegar.

Heal bruises and soothe sunburns

How many times have you visited your dermatologist asking for hydrocortisone cream (sunburn creams)? You can heal injuries and soothe sunburns using cider vinegar by following this procedure.

  • Take a certain amount of cider vinegar and mix it with an equal amount of water.
  • Use the solution to rinse the affected skin parts.

Remarkably, bruises and sunburns will be completely healed and soothed.

Detoxify your face

Our skins are usually exposed to numerous toxins which, if not removed, cause acne. However, apple vinegar has an acidic content which detoxes the skin. For it to work, dip a clean cloth in diluted apple vinegar, then wipe your face with it.

The acidity present in the vinegar helps to detoxify the skin. Also, beta-carotene present helps in preventing future skin damage.

Postpone wrinkles

The beta-carotene ensures that skin cells are protected and healthy, hence delaying the occurrence of lines. Also, the apple vinegar for skin detoxes the skin, thus keeping it healthy.

Most importantly, it leaves the surface with a radiant glow, making it look younger.

Prevent pimples and acne from appearing

Apple cider vinegar cleanses and heals the skin, thus restoring its normal PH levels.

This procedure will guide you.

  • Make a mixture of one part of apple vinegar with two portions filtered H2O.
  • Apply the concoction to your skin using cotton balls.
  • Use warm water and a mild cleanser to wash it off after 10 minutes.
  • Repeat this 3 to 4 times daily.

Tone the skin

Oily skins are not the best. Apple cider vinegar helps you get rid of oily skin by doing the following.

  • Mix half a cup of cider vinegar with filtered water.
  • Use cotton to apply the solution on your skin.
  • Use cool H2O to wash it off after 5-10 minutes.
  • For best results, repeat the procedure twice daily.

For sensitive skin, increase the amount of water to dilute the apple vinegar.

Diminish aging spots

Apple cider vinegar for skin gets rid of aging spots by you dabbing it directly onto the tender spots. The alcohol present acts as an antibacterial which fights off bacteria and other germs.

Also, it washes away the dead skin cells which appear on the skin as aging spots. Once washed away, the skin is left young, healthy and radiant.

If you experience irritation, dilute the cider vinegar with water before using it.

apple cider vinegar

Soothe blade bumps

Painful red bumps caused by shaving can be healed using cider vinegar.

  • Apply a layer of honey on the bumps for softening.
  • After 10 minutes, wash it off and apply apple cider vinegar using a cotton cloth.
  • Leave the clumps to dry.

Remove cellulite

Cellulite is the mass of subcutaneous fat occurring slightly below the skin. Apple cider vinegar for skin contains minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. These minerals stimulate the elimination and circulation of excess body fluids.

It removes cellulite by;

  • Make a mixture of a part of cider vinegar with two parts of water.
  • Add honey to the mix. Dab the resulting solution onto the affected area and leave it for about 30 minutes. Afterward, rinse off with warm H2O.
  • Repeat twice daily till you get the desired outcome.

20 Foods That Put Your Metabolism Into Fat Burning Mode

What are the best ways to jump start your metabolism? Consider this thought:

“…a new study published (in) JAMA (Journal of the American Medical Association) …found that people who cut back on added sugar, refined grains, and highly processed foods while concentrating on eating plenty of vegetables and whole foods – without worrying about counting calories or limiting portion sizes – lost significant amount of weight over the course of a year.” – Ahahad O’Connor (source)

Reread the above quote if you must. “Calorie counting” diets have taken a lashing through the years – and rightfully so. The study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association may just help put the final nail in the coffin.

JAMA’s research simply reconfirms what most of us intuitively understand: the quality of the food we eat is far more important than the quantity. The study also reconfirms the utter worthlessness (and dangers) of sugar – again, and of processed foods – again. Let’s not forget about those refined grains – a process that involves the removal of any essential nutrition within whole grains.

But what may not be expected is that the researchers, faculty members at the Stanford University School of Medicine, found “no significant difference” in weight loss between a healthy low-fat and healthy low-carbohydrate diet over a 12-month period.

What does this all mean? Merely this: incorporating more healthy fruits, vegetables, and whole foods will probably improve your metabolism significantly. More importantly – you needn’t count every single calorie. (Within reason, folks!)

Moreover, adding fat-burning foods to your diet will further hasten your efforts toward weight loss! Speaking of fat-burning foods, here are 20 of the best!

20 Foods to Boost Your Metabolism

metabolism boosters

Artichokes

While not quite as well-known for its weight loss properties as some other foods on this list, artichokes have a lot to offer. First, they’re rich in dietary fiber which helps promote feelings of fullness (“satiety”). Second, they help control blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

Avocados

Long gone are the days when people thought all fat was “bad fat.” Avocados are a legit fat-burning food, thanks to their loads of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.

Bananas

Bananas are delicious – this we all know. But they’re also packed with healthy fiber and are very low in calories. Moreover, the natural sugars found in bananas are just fine to eat.

Berries

Speaking of natural sugars, berries are another excellent choice if you want to improve your metabolism. Blueberries are a favorite because of their high fiber and antioxidant properties.

Brown Rice

Brown rice is a savior for those of us who love our rice. Unlike its white counterpart, the brown stuff regulates blood sugar and helps to burn fat.

Chia Seeds

Ch-ch-ch-chia! (Sorry about that; couldn’t help it.)

Anyways, chia seeds are a nutritional powerhouse – and a potent fat burning food. Chia seeds contain a water-soluble fiber that helps suppress appetite. They’re also rich in omega fatty acids.

Chili Peppers

Capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers, has been found in multiple studies to burn fat and accelerate weight loss. Many (most?) of these studies have found that chili peppers, when consumed regularly, help a person maintain a healthy weight.

Eggs

One medium egg contains a whopping seven grams of protein – and only 75 calories! Studies show that the body burns more fat digesting eggs than other breakfast foods, like cereal. How’s that for a metabolism boost?

Grapefruit

In a study published by researchers at the Scripps Clinic, individuals who consumed grapefruit were found to lose weight without any alterations to their regular diet.

Grape nuts

Grape nuts are a very healthy cereal option. They are loaded with fiber, whole grains, minerals, and a decent amount of protein at over 3.5 grams per cup.

Green Tea

Clinical studies indicate that green tea helps to promote health of your metabolism. The phytonutrient EGCG, which is plentiful in green tea, helps you feel full.

Greek Yogurt

The Greek variety of yogurt is, by far, the healthiest and most conducive to weight loss. Greek yogurt contains nearly 17 grams of protein per cup and is flush with gut-healthy probiotics.

Hemp Seeds

Like chia seeds, hemp seeds are rich in fiber, high in protein, and contain a good amount of omega fatty acids.

Kale

Kale is one of the healthiest superfoods around. It’s loaded with fiber and low in calories. Brimming with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, kale also contains a decent amount of protein.

Kefir

Low-fat kefir contains high amounts of calcium and probiotics, which helps to maintain gut health. A healthy gut optimizes any effort to lose weight.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a fantastic weight loss food. It’s high in fiber, water density, and protein. Add a sliced banana or a handful of berries for a fat-burning breakfast that’s hard to beat.

metabolism

Quinoa

Quinoa is the rare grain that is both loaded with fiber and protein. It also provides all the essential amino acids for added benefits in boosting your metabolism.

Salmon

Fatty fish are outstanding for weight loss. Rich in omega-3s and high-quality protein, salmon can help burn fat, build muscle, and suppress appetite.

Seaweed

Seaweed may be just the thing to prevent iodine deficiency – a condition that affects around two billion people globally. If you’re determined to maximize your weight loss, include seaweed to help keep your thyroid humming.

Walnuts

Per a study published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, walnuts may help with “restraint in the face of (less healthy) foods.” Researchers believe that the nutrients in walnuts act on the right insula, a brain region associated with appetite and impulse control.

11 Simple Stretches For Osteoporosis That Heal Brittle Bones

Over 75 million people in the world suffer from osteoporosis, or brittle bones. It’s a very common condition among women over 40 and it’s difficult to diagnose unless you break a bone due to a minor injury. It can occur in only some areas of the body, or over bigger parts of the body. It can also sometimes cause chronic pain if fractures of the spine occur.

Fractures caused by osteoporosis can significantly impact your life and should be a cause of concern if you are at risk of osteoporosis. Sometimes, fractures can lead to the need for long-term care, or even increase the risk of death. Furthermore, a lack of calcium and vitamin D are also serious risk factors when it comes to osteoporosis.

There may be a solution though. Researchers have discovered that some yoga poses, when performed daily, can positively increase bone density rel=”nofollow” and therefore reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, yoga is fantastic for other mobility-affecting conditions, such as joint hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Of course, the best option is to go to a yoga teacher and ask them about the best poses for your condition. However, with some training videos on YouTube and illustrated guides, you can also learn these poses at home! It’s a cost-effective and fun way to reduce your risk of osteoporosis. Here are some yoga poses recommended by science for increased bone strength.

Here Are 11 Simple Stretches for Osteoporosis That Heal Brittle Bones

1. The downward dog

This is one of the most popular yoga poses out there. To perform the downward dog, plant your hands on the ground and lift up your pelvis, strengthening your back and keeping it straight so that your body forms the shape of a V. This pose is great for adding some strength to your spine and preventing fractures of the back.

2. The salabhasana

Also known as the locust, this pose is performed by lifting your head off the ground, with your arms stretched back, and lifting your legs from the pelvis at the same time while lying on your belly. This is a wonderful pose to increase your core strength and the develop the muscles in your back.

3. The straight-leg twist

Another one for the back, the straight-leg twist is a popular solution for anyone struggling with lower back or hip pain. Lie down on your back, with your palms against the floor. Slowly raise your legs, making sure to keep your knees as straight as possible, and then rotate your torso, bringing your feet towards the floor. Alternate sides of this position for the best results.

4. The bridge

Begin on your back, with your legs bent at the knees and your palms and feet against the floor. Slowly lift your pelvis off the ground until your whole torso is in line with your knees. Stay like that for a few seconds and then relax, trying it again. This is wonderful for strengthening your arms and shoulders, as well as increasing your general core strength.

5. Vriksasana

This is more commonly known as the tree pose and is again one of the most common yoga poses. It’s wonderful for the weaker tendons and bones in your body, like your ankles and wrists. Start standing up, with your feet planted on the ground. Raise your right leg and bend at the knee, placing your foot against your other leg. Raise your hands above your head and join them at your palms.

6. The revolved triangle

This pose is very useful for sciatica sufferers, as they are at a greater risk of osteoporosis. It’s also great for relieving lower back pain. Stand up, with your feet apart and your arms parallel to the floor. Rotate your torso and touch one palm to the floor next to your front leg, while your other arm extends upwards. Switch sides for maximum efficiency.

7. The extended triangle

This is very similar to the revolved triangle, only the arm on your front leg rests on your ankle rather than the floor and your hip is slightly extended forward. This pose is really useful for weak joints and tense muscles, known to relieve tension almost straightaway. As with the revolved triangle, make sure to switch sides.

8. The reclining hand-to-big-toe

Also called the Supta Pandagusthasana, this position has two variations, however, the one we’ll describe here is better for yoga beginners. Lie down on the floor, looking up, with your hands by your sides. Raise one of your legs, keeping the knee extended. With your hand, place a rubber band on the sole of the foot, pressing down as hard as you can. Make sure to switch legs as well. This position ensures correct pelvis alignment and relieves lower back pain.

bones

9. The warrior pose

Start with your feet on the floor, arms by your side. Step forward with one foot and lean down, extending your back foot until the knee is completely taut. Raise your hands at shoulder level parallel to the floor with the palms up. Then switch the leading leg. This exercise is great for painful hips and a misaligned pelvis as a result of osteoporosis.

10. The bent-knee twist

This is a slightly more advanced pose that people who are not very flexible might find difficult. Start sitting up, with your back straight, arms by your side. Bend your left leg at the knee and put your right leg over it, twisting your torso to the right. Hook your arms through the right leg and hold your hands together. Switch sides after a few seconds.

11. The deep relaxation pose

Lie down on your back, with palms up to the ceiling. Keep your feet spread apart, your hips relaxed, and your knees extended. Take a deep breath and close your eyes, feeling your tension slip away. Try not to fall asleep. This position relaxes all the pain in your body and your mind, too.

Final thoughts

“Today osteoporosis affects more than 75 million people in the United States, Europe, and Japan and causes more than 2.3 million fractures in the USA and Europe alone.” – Gro Harlem Brundtland

If you’re at risk for osteoporosis, remember positive thinking – you can definitely help yourself with these relaxing yoga poses, and do something fun in the meantime, too!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHeI3Y_CfMo

How I Cured My Acne With Apple Cider Vinegar In Just 1 Week

Acne breaks out your face and can be very embarrassing sometimes. The blemishes caused by acne can stay on your face for a couple of months and even years. If you have ever had acne, then you must be familiar with how annoying the situation is. The condition subjects you to live with scars on your face for a long time. You could have applied various treatment methods and resources such as medicated creams, drugstore cleansers and dangerous prescription pills all in vain.

I have a very close friend who suffered the effects caused by acne since her puberty through high school and even college. She had tried all the methodologies and applications she had heard, or read of, but there was not even a single one that helped her to remedy her skin. She lived a stressful life. She had also started developing low self-esteem. Luckily, her mother read about the use of apple cider that produces vinegar to cure acne. The mom revealed the hint to her, and since she had suffered enough, she decided to try anything that could free her from acne. She tried it and it, indeed, worked. I decided to find out how apple cider vinegar works, and the following are hints to help you achieve your goal of treating acne.

How apple cider vinegar cured my acne in 1 week:

1. Buy your apple cider vinegar

When you go out to purchase an apple cider vinegar, ensure that it is unfiltered, organic, unpasteurized and it contains the ‘mother.’ The Mother is the brown strand that floats in the vinegar and is beneficial for your health.

2. Put a small portion of apple cider vinegar into a glass container

The amount of apple cider vinegar that you should use depends on the size of toner you need to prepare. However, I recommend that you start by making smaller portions of about a teaspoon. You should then increase the amount with time as you get used to it.

3. Use distilled or filtered water to dilute the apple cider vinegar for acne

Your skin sensitivity will determine the amount of water you should use to dilute the substance. Consider diluting it in the ratio of one portion of the content to about two or three equal parts of water. If your skin is sensitive, then you should add some more water to have a more diluted material. Depending on your skin type, you may have to make a couple of toners before you get the one that fits your skin the best.

4. Pour a little of the fully prepared substance onto a clean cotton pad for application

Treatment starts by cleansing your face. Ensure that you do not apply anything else on your face before your toner is dry. After it dries, you are free to use your preferred lotion or cream. Repeat this procedure twice a day until you achieve your goal. You may also consider using your toner every time you wash your face.

The toner may not work for everyone, but it has shown positive results for many people who had used almost all other approaches to cure acne without getting anything positive. As it is with every treatment method, this natural and organic substance requires care and responsiveness for it to deliver the expected impact.

apple cider vinegar

Based on the information on WebMD, the alcohol contained in apple cider is turned into vinegar by bacteria and yeast during fermentation. Vinegar helps in fighting bacteria that causes acne. According to Healthline, apple cider vinegar has citric, succinic, lactic and acetic acid. These acids have been proven to have the ability to kill P. acnes that are scientifically known as Propionibacterium acnes. This bacteria is the primary cause of acne in humans.

Home remedies for treating acne

Additionally, the acids defend your body against acne scars through reduction of inflammation while smoothing out the pigmentation and texture of your skin. In many cases, acne leaves deep dark or red tones on your skin after healing. It may affect part of your face or the entirety of it. Apple cider vinegar for acne cures any acne since it attacks the primary cause of the illness. The substance has a strong smell that may not be pleasant for you, so prepare yourself for it in advance.

50 Easy Ways to Flush A Bloated Stomach

A bloated stomach can be one of the worst feelings in the world. That stuffed feeling around your stomach can make you feel so uncomfortable and unattractive. Bloating, which is common to everyone, happens for a number of reasons. But we have good news! It’s easy to flush the belly boat by eating the right foods, avoiding certain ingredients, and making a few lifestyle changes. Here are some ways to follow to achieve a positive result against bloating:

Here Are 50 Easy Ways to Flush A Bloated Stomach

“It feels like your belly is a glass constantly full of water, and if you try to put anything else in the glass, it will overflow.” – Grace Shockey

1. Almonds

Snack on unsalted almonds in the afternoons to aid digestion, as well as give you an energy boost.

2. Asparagus

Eating asparagus, which is rich in fiber, helps regulate your gut bacteria.

3. Avocado

This fruit contains monounsaturated fats that make you feel full without the stomach bulge.

4. Bananas

These fruits are rich in fiber and potassium. Munch on bananas after meals, or add to your cereals and pancakes, or make a smoothie.

5. Broccoli

Eating half a cup of broccoli can reduce the bloat. Make sure to steam or cook it first as some people can develop gas from eating this veggie raw.

6. Brown rice

Compared to white rice, brown rice is easier to digest.

7. Caffeine

Drinking coffee stimulates the muscles in your colon. If you have constipation, a cup of Joe after a big breakfast can help relieve this stomach problem.

8. Cucumbers

This crunchy vegetable flushes down excess water in the body.

9. Fruits with high water content

Watermelon, honeydew, and cantaloupe can flush out the sodium that causes belly bloat. It also improves blood flow and brings your body energy.

10. Fruits with skin

Apples, pears, or any fruit with skin are fibrous and thus beneficial to the digestive system.

11. Ginger

Ginger is popularly used in Eastern medicine for many purposes, including relief for digestive issues. Add fresh ginger to your salads, smoothies, juices, and stir-fry meals.

12. Lemon water

Lemon works as a diuretic and reduces water retention.

13. Lettuce

This green, leafy vegetable has many nutrients. It’s also full of fiber that fills up your stomach without the bloat.

14. Oatmeal

Have a healthy breakfast full of fibrous oatmeal, but make sure that your bowl isn’t filled with sugar.

15. Papaya

This exotic fruit has enzymes that help the digestive tract and relieves the feeling of heaviness around the belly.

16. Peppermint tea

Drinking peppermint tea helps relax the muscles in the stomach, thus you get instant relief from bloating, gas, and cramps.

17. Potassium-rich foods

Spinach, mangoes, and tomatoes are loaded with potassium that can banish a bloated stomach and offset your sodium intake.

18. Probiotics

Yogurt, kimchi, miso, kefir, sauerkraut, and pickles are loaded with good bacteria called probiotics that regulates the gut and helps with digestion, so you avoid a belly bloat, as per the Cleveland Clinic.

19. Quinoa

This food relieves menstrual cramps and reduces bloating because it contains potassium and magnesium.

20. Salmon

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon reduces stomach inflammation.

21. Water

Constipation causes a bloated stomach but if you keep yourself properly hydrated with water, you can avoid this problem. Drinking a glass of water 30 minutes before a meal also helps with weight loss, as per a study in the research journal Obesity.

22. Avoid alcohol

One glass of wine is fine but too much alcohol can dehydrate your body so you feel puffier and bloated.

23. Avoid gum

Chewing gum leads to more air in your gastrointestinal tract that can cause your stomach to expand.

24. Avoid processed meat

These foods are packed with salt that makes digestion difficult.

25. Avoid protein bars

This food contains soy protein by-products that cause belly bloat.

26. Avoid Seltzers

Though not as bad as sodas, the bubbles in seltzers make your belly expand.

27. Avoid starchy food

Eating baked potatoes, pasta, and other starchy foods during dinner can lead to water retention that will make you feel bloated in the morning.

28. Avoid sugar-free treats

Anything “sugar-free” might sound healthier – but these foods have maltitol, sorbitol, and xylitol that can cause digestive problems.

29. Ditch straws

Ditch the straws in your drink to prevent excess air from getting trapped in your digestive tract.

30. Less salt

Sodium is one of the most common causes of stomach bloating. Eating salty foods brings excess fluids in your body that leads to the swelling of your ankles, feet, and stomach, according to Heart Failure Matters Org.

31. Fewer sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners make digestion harder and lead to diarrhea or excess gas.

32. Limit bread

This food has high sodium content but many people don’t know it.

33. Limit dairy

Milk and cheese can lead to major bloating issues, especially if your body has a harder time breaking down lactose. Experts say that 75 percent of the world’s population is lactose intolerant.

34. Limit frozen meals

While convenient, frozen meals are preserved with too much sodium, which is bad for digestion, among other issues.

35. Limit gassy veggies and beans

Cabbage, Brussels spout, and beans are known to cause constipation. Limit your intake of these foods when you’re feeling bloated.

36. Limit heavy sauces

Sauces might add flavor to your food but they’re often high in salt. Use spices instead to lend flavor to your dishes.

37. Skip fried foods

Anything fried makes digestion harder, so you end up feeling bloated.

38. Skip gluten-free products

Gluten-free foods are still processed and have low fiber content, so these can be harder to break down in the stomach.

gluten

39. Belly stretches

Before getting up in the morning, do belly stretches by lying on your back and pulling your knees toward your tummy. This soothes your stomach and prevents bloating.

40. Control antibiotic intake

Antibiotics can change the patterns in your gut, so you feel uncomfortable. Ask your doctor for an alternative if gas and bloating due to antibiotics make you uncomfortable.

41. Eat an early dinner

Enjoy your dinners earlier to give your stomach more time to digest your food before you go to sleep. That way, you shouldn’t feel bloated in the morning.

42. Increase calcium

Take more calcium and calcium supplements during the peak of your menstrual cycle to prevent stomach bloating.

43. Low-sodium recipes

Switch to low-sodium recipes when you’re preparing dishes, especially ones that call for canned soups.

44. Meditation

This mindful exercise can calm the nerves and muscles, as well as alleviate stomach issues, according to a study in the JAMA Internal Medicine journal.

45. Morning exercises

A 20-minute physical routine in the morning can facilitate the movement in your digestive system.

46. Practice yoga

Yoga alleviates bloating and facilitates fat-burning faster.

47. Eat smaller portions

Eat your food in smaller portions and chew slowly to give your brain plenty of time to process that you’re satiated. This also prevents your body from needing to digest too much food.

48. Snack smart

A cup of yogurt with fruits between breakfast and lunch will curb binge eating, keep your weight ideal, and reduce the bloating.

49. Transfer canned foods

If you love snacking on canned fruits and veggies, transfer these into a different container and run under cold water for a few minutes before eating to remove the extra sodium content.

50. Tummy massages

Giving your abdomen a good massage can stimulate movement in your digestive tract and get rid of stomach gas.

Final thoughts

bloating

While a belly bloat isn’t something to be ashamed of because it is pretty common, experts suggest losing some weight to flatten the belly and rid yourself of the discomfort of a bulging stomach. Apart from positive thinking, doing regular exercises for the abs can also make your stomach muscles firmer and stronger.

Women Who Want Glowing Skin Should Drink Orange Juice: Here Is Why

Cosmetics are meant to make one appear beautiful. However, most times, these skin improving products end up having a destructive effect on the user. A study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) revealed that men experienced reproductive complications between 197o and 1993. These problems were as a result of overuse of cosmetic products that were made from harmful chemicals. This issue of skin problems has been left unaddressed for too long while the manufacturers continue destroying the end users of their products. The situation can be reversed only when women turn back to the use of natural beauty products that have no side effects.

One of the most underrated cosmetic products that is naturally available is oranges for skin. The benefits of using orange for skin products are almost inexhaustible, and women should wholeheartedly accept their use as it will significantly improve their looks.

The following are some of these benefits that the use of orange juice as a beauty product brings:

1. Source of nutrients

Oranges are a rich source of ascorbic acid, and one serving is enough to fulfill the body’s requirements for Vitamin C. Therefore, if you are looking to improve your skin, taking the juice will bring the additional advantage of improving your general health. In addition to Vitamin C, the juice is also a rich reserve of minerals such as magnesium, potassium, and folic acid.

Folic acid greatly helps the body’s vital organs, such as the spinal cord, perform effectively. Taking oranges regularly has also been found to help manage weight loss. The health benefits of taking the juice are almost endless, and women who use it frequently are set to have a significant health improvement.

2. Minimizes skin pore size

The skin has pores that excrete waste from the body. At times, these pores can expand, and this makes a face appear oily. Application of orange juice can solve this problem. The juice causes the shrinking of pores, and the result is a smoother skin that is highly radiant. To get the best results, it is advisable to apply the juice, then wash it off with clean water after about three minutes. The large pores will be sealed in a short time, and your face will be left shining without having applied any commercial cosmetic product.

3. Eliminates acne

Nobody likes to have acne on their face. Many people with frequent acne try to establish a smoother skin with artificial beauty products. Unknowingly, the cosmetics end up causing the development of more acne, and if healing occurs, large marks are left. The solution to these problems lies with the use of natural orange juice. The juice contains citric acid. This acid is beneficial in removing the dead skin without leaving marks on the face. To gain the best results, it is advisable to apply the juice regularly. Your face will brighten like never before.

4. Effective bleaching without side effects

The other most commonly used beauty product is bleaching agents. Mainly, these products are used by people who want to have a lighter skin tone than their present one. Although the cosmetics are useful in giving the desired result, the after use effects can be adverse. Some people develop cancerous complications as a result of the application of these cosmetic bleaching products.

An alternative way of having a lighter tone without the risk of developing complication is applying a mixture of orange juice and milk. The curd mixture should be applied and then washed off after twenty minutes. Your skin will be bleached slowly without experiencing any after use effects, and you are free from contracting skin related cancerous complications.

5. Aging remedy

As one gets old, one of the first organs to change its appearance is the skin. However, oranges have been found to maintain young, vibrant skin that is free from wrinkles resulting from old age. This is because orange juice is rich in Vitamin C that is necessary for the production of collagen. Collagen is the chemical that is responsible for keeping the skin moist and free from wrinkles.

orange

6. Body and skin detoxification

Toxic chemicals in the body result in pale skin. Therefore, there’s a need to continually expel the toxins for maintenance of radiant skin that is moist at all times. Oranges have been found to be an effective detoxifier that discharge all the harmful chemicals that give your skin an unattractive appeal.

7. Scrubbing

The skin peelings of orange are also helpful. They can be used to make scrub powder when dried that removes dead skin from the face. When mixed with hot water, these peelings form a spray that is useful in keeping the skin glowing at most times.

The benefits of using oranges for skin are immense, and the entire body will also benefit in the long run. Therefore, it’s advisable to turn to the use of natural skin care products, as their advantages are incomparable to the adverse effects brought about by the artificial cosmetics.

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