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Oranges For Skin: 11 Effective Homemade Face Masks For Girls Who Want Glowing Skin

August 25, 2018 by Power of Positivity

When it comes to skincare, your local farmer’s market has all you need to create homemade non-toxic face masks that will replenish moisture, sluff away dead skin cells and brighten your skin. You will need a few simple natural ingredients such as oranges, yogurt and honey. As you read on, you will learn 11 different ways you can combine various natural ingredients with oranges for skin that is healthy and glowing.

11 Ways to Use Oranges for Skin Health

Orange and Banana is an amazing combination that will leave your skin supple and glowing. It also fights oily skin. Ingredients for this mask are:

1 ripe banana
1 teaspoon honey
1 orange

Mash a banana and mix it with the honey. Add a few drops of fresh orange juice. Apply this to your face and leave it for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Oranges and green tea leaves are a natural way to exfoliate. All you will need is:

1 tablespoon orange pulp
1/2 a teaspoon crushed green tea leaves

Mix these together and apply. Use your fingers to gently massage the mixture in circular motions. Leave it for 20 minutes before rinsing it off.

Orange peel powder and turmeric combine together to make a magical face mask that will help prevent acne and even out skin tone. For this mask you will need:

1 tablespoon orange peel powder
a pinch of turmeric
1 tablespoon honey

Combine everything and apply the mix to your face. Allow this to dry. Afterward, wet your fingers with water and gently massage this mask off. If the turmeric leaves a yellow residue, wash with a gentle face wash.

Oranges and coconut make an amazing face mask that hydrates and brightens skin. All you will need is:

1 tablespoon orange pulp
1 teaspoon coconut oil

Mix these together and apply the mixture to your face. Leave it for 30 minutes to soak into your skin. Remove it with a soft cloth.

Oranges and yogurt may sound like breakfast, but these healthy ingredients also moisturize and brighten skin.

2 teaspoons orange peel powder
1 teaspoon honey
1 teaspoon yogurt

Mix these together and apply to your face. Leave it for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Oatmeal and orange peel powder can be combined with water to make an exfoliating face mask. For this you need:

1 teaspoon oatmeal
2 teaspoons orange peel powder
water or rose water

Combine the oatmeal and o.p.p. with enough water to form a paste. Apply this to your skin and massage in circular patterns. Allow it to sit for 20 minutes. Rinse with warm water.

Orange and lime face masks can help oily skin and acne. You will need:

2 teaspoons orange peel powder
a few drops fresh lime juice
1 tablespoon sandalwood powder
1 tablespoon fullers earth

Combine these ingredients to form a paste and apply to your face. Allow the mask to sit for 30 minutes then rinse with warm water.

An orange and tomato mask will even skin tone, heal acne and help control oil. For this mask you need:

1/2 a tomato mashed
1 tablespoon orange peel powder
1 tablespoon rosewater

Mix these together and apply to your skin. Leave it for 10 minutes. Rinse with cool water.

Milk and orange peel powder can be combined with coconut oil to create a mask that will leave your skin silky smooth. For this mask you need:

1 teaspoon milk
1 teaspoon coconut oil
2 tablespoons orange peel powder

Blend these ingredients and apply to your skin. Leave the mask for 20 minutes then rinse with warm water.

Aloe and orange combined with lemon juice create a mask that gives you beautifully soft and brilliant skin. For this mask use:

2 tablespoons aloe vera gel
2-3 drops of fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons orange peel powder

Mix the aloe with the o.p.p. Add a few drops of lemon juice to form a thick paste. Apply this and allow it to dry. Rinse with cool water.

Rose water and orange peel powder work together with multani mitti to make a mask that will deep cleanse your skin and clear whiteheads. For this mask you need:

1 tablespoon orange peel powder
1 tablespoon multani mitti
enough rose water to form a paste

Mix the dry ingredients then gradually add the water until you get a paste. Apply this to your skin until it is almost dry. Rinse with warm water.

With the powerful dose of citric acid and vitamin C provided by oranges, your skin will be soft and glowing when you use any of these natural masks.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yG-G9_LOkLA

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

Feeling Bloated And Constipated? You Need To Eat These High Fiber Foods

August 25, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Bloating and Constipation, What Are They?

If your stomach is bloated, it expands and you feel full. Bloating may occur for a number of reasons, but constipation is the most common one. Constipation is the feeling that you get when you go to the toilet, and you are unable to comfortably empty your bowels. Other symptoms include loss of appetite and stomach pains.

How You Can Deal With Bloating and Constipation

Luckily, the condition can be remedied, and you can go back to having healthy bowel movements. If you want to get rid of the pain associated with constipation, you need to eat fiber rich foods.

In case you don’t know where to start, try the following highest fiber foods:

1. Berries

If you want something sweet and fiber rich, go for strawberries, raspberries, blackberries or kiwi. Eating any of the mentioned fruits can provide you with adequate fiber; in fact, research shows that one kiwi has more than 2 g of fiber; a cup of fresh strawberries contains 3 g; blackberries 7.6 g; and raspberries 8 g. Therefore, the next time you want to make pancakes for breakfast, add some berries to the mix for a healthy start to the day.

2. Beans

Whether its baked, lima, garbanzo, kidney, or pinto beans, each cup contains more than 10 g of fiber. These are some of the highest fiber foods on the list. The amazing thing about beans and black-eyed peas is that they have both soluble and insoluble fibers to keep the food in motion during digestion.

3. Artichoke

When talking about the highest fiber foods, artichoke is among them – a medium serving of boiled artichoke contains more than 10 g of fiber. This vegetable may look thorny and inedible, but it’s actually quite sweet when you boil it or roast it. Therefore, the next time you go the grocery store, pick up some artichokes and try cooking them; you can try a few online recipes to see which one works for you.

4. Sweet Potatoes

Another yummy and delicious vegetable that will help you cope with constipation is sweet potatoes. One medium baked sweet potato contains approximately 3.8 g of fiber, while a regular baked one has around 3 g of fiber. An important point to remember when dealing with these foods is that you should never peel them because the majority of nutrients are found on the skin.

5. Popcorn

This one is a bit tricky because movie theater popcorn is not the same as air-popped popcorn. The former has more calories and is more likely to cause constipation due to the high fat content, while the latter is the fiber rich one. Three cups of air-popped popcorn offer 3.5 g of fiber and few calories.

6. Nuts And Seeds

The three most effective nuts for dealing with constipation are pecans, almonds, and walnuts. An ounce of walnuts has 1.9 g of fiber; the same amount of pecans contain 2.7 g; almonds have the highest with 3.5 g. In case you are allergic to nuts, you can go for seeds. You can’t mention highest fiber foods without talking about pumpkin seeds – one ounce contains 5 g of fiber. Whether you go for nuts or seeds, remember to consume them dry roasted or raw instead of roasting them in oil because the fat can worsen your constipation.

7. Pears, Plums, and Apples

This is another group that belongs to the highest fiber foods list. One apple or one pear contains more than 5 g of fiber, while a cup of dried plums or prunes has 12 g. Before consumption, don’t peel off the skin of these fruits because most nutrients are found there.

8. Whole Grain Bread

Bread made of pure grain has at least 3 g of fiber per slice. Usually, such loaves are labelled whole grain on the cover. An alternative is the diet bread, which has more than 3 g. If the bread package doesn’t say whole grain, don’t expect it to be one of the fiber rich foods. Varieties such as seven-grain and multigrain breads are only made from special flour and not nutritious grains.

Conclusion

The above list contains 8 highest fiber foods for your choosing. Just remember to stick to eating these foods if you want the positive health changes to be permanent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yG-G9_LOkLA

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

5 Delicious Ways To Turn An Avocado Into A Healthy Dessert

August 25, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Over the past few years, the avocado has really had its time in the sun. Not only are they delicious, but they are also packed with minerals and vitamins. They have about 20 vital vitamins, including vitamins K, C, E, B5, B6, and potassium. It is a little-known fact that avocados contain more potassium than bananas.

While many may think the avocado is part of the vegetable family, it is actually categorized as a fruit distinguishable by its pit. The phantom fruit is one of the most versatile ingredients for many a delicious dish. There are a ton of avocado recipes out there, including some really healthy dessert options.

Here are 5 delicious avocado dessert recipes:

Avo-Smoothies

Any smoothie is a fantastic alternative to its sugary sister, the milkshake. By adding simple ingredients such as vanilla extract or almond milk, you are still able to achieve the same sweet taste that your tummy may be craving after a meal, but with far fewer calories.

Incorporating half a standard-sized avocado into your smoothie will not only taste great but will also give your drink a creamy, fatty texture that is ideal for mimicking a real milkshake. To preserve the other half of your superfruit, add some lemon juice to its zip-locked bag before returning it to the refrigerator.

Avo-Ice Cream

Its creamy texture definitely screams for ice cream, and any homemade ice cream done well is hands down the best tasting. Before starting the actual ice cream making process, blend the avocados with a food processor while blending ¾ of a cup of granulated sugar, 1 cup of sour cream, ½ a cup of heavy cream, one tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Blend this mixture until it has become entirely smooth.

This mixture makes a great ice cream that is not only refreshing but is also healthy too! Studies have shown that avocados may help weight loss. They do this by creating the illusion that you are full for more extended periods of time.

Avo-Banana Bread

There’s no better morning snack than a few slices of warm banana bread with some buttery spread. Incorporating an avocado or two in with your favorite banana bread recipe will only increase its ability to stay moist for a more extended period of time. The taste is still very much banana driven if that may be one of your concerns. All that you might have to get over is a slightly greenish tinge that the banana bread takes on.

Break Out the Cheesecake

If you’re obsessed with avocado recipes, then you will definitely want to try incorporating it into your cheesecake. If you know the amount of time and effort that goes into making a regular cheesecake, then you also know that the cost of the ingredients for one can get pretty pricey. Typically, a New York cheesecake calls for almost 2 pounds of cream cheese.

A ripe Hass avocado is naturally creamy and rich in texture, which is why making an avo-lime cheesecake is easily achieved with just 4 of the large-sized fruits. It’s a great treat that is bound to delight your taste buds on a warm summer night.

Avo-Brownies

The fan favorite when it comes to avocado recipes has got to be brownies. We all love a hot-gooey brownie after a great meal. Whether it’s topped with ice cream or hot chocolate fudge, there’s no going wrong with a brownie.
By just adding in 1 or 2 ripened avocados to your favorite brownie recipe, you not only get to indulge in a highly sought-after desert, but you also greatly benefit from the superfruit at the same time.

Not only are avocados delicious, but they are also super easy to add to your everyday foods so that you may benefit from their valuable vitamins and minerals. In addition to the 20 vital vitamins they hold, they have also been known to contain traces of magnesium, iron, and zinc.

Magnesium plays a crucial part in regulating the body’s blood pressure and keeping the heart’s rhythm steady. If you are health conscious and also happen to have a sweet tooth, avocados are a no-brainer when it comes to upholding certain diet restraints while still enjoying life.

How To Eat Sprouts For Weight Loss, According To These Dieticians

August 24, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Exercise and healthy eating habits are two well-known factors in losing weight. Although people are aware that exercise is an effective method for losing weight, they may not know the best exercise for getting the desirable results. The same concept applies to eating habits – people understand they should eat healthy but are not aware of what healthy means. Plant-based foods, like sprouts, are shown to have health benefits, while significantly contributing to weight loss.

Sprouts should be a staple food for those interested in a diet that promotes weight loss. A staple food is one you eat regularly and in significant qualities. Traditional staples of cultures throughout history are rice, beans, and wheat, all of which you can sprout. The process of sprouting these plant-based foods is to soak them in water, rehydrating them and germinating the seeds to grow.

Beans are the most common and easiest sprouts to grow. Some examples of beans that you can find (or grow!) easily are red beans, chickpeas, and lentils. These foods are high in nutrients such as fiber, B-vitamins and digestive enzymes and are low in calories.

Here’s how to eat sprouts for weight loss:

Low Calorie Dieting

Many people are told to eat low calories, again, without the understanding of how. They end up reducing calories by eating less, yet the foods they eat are also low in nutrients and keep them feeling hungry. After a while, hunger pangs outweigh the motivation to reduce calories, and people end up binge eating. Suffering through calorie restrictions can compromise the efforts of weight loss.

Beans are generally high in fiber, resulting in satiation. They are also known as a resistant starch, making them different from other carbohydrates such as processed bread, crackers, and pasta. Fiber helps with regularity as well, flushing the body of unnecessary components. Sprouting beans fortifies them with vital enzymes that aid in digestion. These foods are also low in calories and high in nutrients, which leaves people feeling fuller and even providing more energy throughout the day.

Energy and Digestion

B-vitamins are a plentiful nutrient in beans. These vitamins provide a sustainable source of energy throughout the day. Energy is especially useful for those who are exercising regularly to lose weight. The enzymes contained in sprouts aid in digestion while burning calories from exercise.

Other Benefits Contributing to Weight Loss

Sprouted beans are full of protein, which helps burn fat and build muscle. Chlorophyll is another component of sprouted plants, promoting oxygen in the blood. Other minerals occurring in these foods also help to purify the blood. Healthy blood fuels muscles and organs in the body. The characteristics of the particular vitamins and minerals present can also help lower cholesterol and boost the immune system. A healthy immune system protects the body against infection and illness.

Preparation and Recipes

Bean sprouts are not only nutritious and great for weight loss, but they can be easily grown at home. When soaked in water overnight and rinsed for a period of 2-3 days, these rehydrated beans will then begin to sprout a small white tail. At this point, the sprouts are ready for consumption, carrying a plethora of weight loss elements.

Once the plants have sprouted, The same recipes used with regular beans can also be used as sprouts recipes. For example, when making chili, sprouted beans can be added with or in place of black, red, or kidney beans. Other sprouts recipes include 3-bean salads or as a topping for regular green salads.

The weight loss trends of the day can be costly and difficult to source. Finding the right protein powder mentioned in that self-help book can be a hassle, especially if there are no health food stores nearby. However, dry beans are available at any local grocery store and for an affordable price. Dry beans are easily stored in a kitchen cupboard. Sprouting may seem arduous at first, but creating consistent habits will make the process easy and straightforward in the long run.

A combination of exercise and diet is ideal for weight loss. Research from blogs and articles similar to this one are important to help understand these terms and how to properly incorporate them into your weight loss journey. The most effective way to achieve optimal weight loss results is to integrate physical activity and healthy foods into an overall lifestyle.

12 Beauty Benefits Of Coconut Oil You Won’t Believe

August 24, 2018 by Chris Butler

Coconut oil, also known as cocos Nucifera Linn., has quickly gained popularity within the last five years. You might have heard about how people use coconut oil for skin care and to lose stubborn body fat. Labeled as a superfood and touted as a miracle cure, this delightfully fragrant and sumptuous oil is versatile and oh-so useful, particularly regarding health and beauty.

Coconut Oil for Skin and Hair

Softens Chapped Lips

Chapped lips aren’t just unsightly; they can also be painful. Use virgin cocos Nucifera oil in lieu of commercial lip balm for soft and healthy lips all year round. Simply put the oil in a small container for a quick and cost-effective way to moisturize and nourish your lips. You can also blend it with other oils to create your luxurious lip balm for pennies on the dollar.

Soothes Eczema

Anyone who’s ever dealt with eczema knows just how awful it can be. If you’re suffering from the redness and painful itching that this condition brings, try applying some coconut oil to combat dryness and irritation. It’s a natural and hypoallergenic way to ease an eczema flare-up.

Prevents Cracked Cuticles and Hang Nails

This wonder oil is a great way to moisturize yourself from head to toe, including your cuticles. Moisturizing your cuticles regularly improves the look of your nails and hands and helps prevent those pesky hang nails.

It Helps With Wrinkles and Crow’s Feet

Wrinkles are an annoying yet inevitable part of the aging process. Like most things, wrinkles are best dealt with through preventative measures. Applying cocos nucifera oil regularly to the face can do wonders for your skin’s look and feel, helping you maintain that healthy and youthful glow for years to come.

Supplements Psoriasis Treatments

While it is not an adequate alternative, this sumptuous superfood is an excellent supplementary treatment for individuals suffering from psoriasis. It is deeply moisturizing, affordable, and has no adverse reactions when combined with other medications. If you suffer from psoriasis, you should still speak to your doctor before integrating anything into your treatment plan.

Soothes Sun Burn

Most people know that aloe vera helps relieve the pain that comes with sunburn. But did you know that coconut oil can also be used to help soothe a sunburn? If your sunburn is particularly painful and/or is accompanied by blistering, consult your doctor before trying any natural or home remedies.

Prevents Athlete’s Foot

About ten years ago, a study concluded that virgin coconut oil effectively cured candida. Since then, the superfood has been widely accepted as an anti-fungal, leading some people to use it as a home remedy for tinea pedis, the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. Several personal reports demonstrated positive results.

Straightens and Smoothes Hair

This luscious oil isn’t just for the skin. Deeply moisturizing and nourishing, it can also be used on the hair as a conditioner and anti-frizz serum. Massage into your hair and wash as usual for smoother, more manageable locks.

Strengthens and Detangles Hair

On top of serving as an excellent deep conditioner and serum, cocos Nucifera oil also helps detangle hair without commercial products. One study even found that regular use can strengthen hair.

Other Unbelievable Benefits

Whitens Teeth and Improves Oral Health

With the recent popularity of this magnificent oil, you have probably already heard of the concept of “oil pulling.” In case you didn’t already know, oil pulling is a practice that uses coconut oil to cleanse the mouth, detoxify the body and gently whiten the teeth. This cleansing method originated in ancient India and has been used for centuries to keep one’s teeth bright and healthy. Any cold-pressed vegetable oil can be used in this process, but coconut works especially well because of its antimicrobial properties.

Aids Wound Healing

Out of antibiotic ointment? You can use this fragrant oil for natural first aid. It goes without saying that deep or serious wounds require medical attention, but if you have a small wound or scab, cocos Nucifera oil will help your wound heal faster. A scientific study suggests that coconut oil has mild antibacterial properties.

An Effective Personal Lubricant

Just as cocos Nucifera oil treats hair, skin, and nails dryness, it also treats the vaginal dryness that comes along with menopause. You could use the oil as an alternative to a commercial lubricant during intercourse, but keep in mind that oil-based lubricants can damage condoms and dental dams.

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

What Kind Of Man You Are Going To Marry According To Your Zodiac Sign

August 24, 2018 by Power of Positivity

What kind of man will you marry? Each day, more research is proving that power that exists behind zodiac signs. The way that the stars align at our births can unveil everything from who we should befriend to the job we should hold.

According to a recent study by the National Science Foundation, nearly two-thirds of Millennials believe that astrology is an important science, and The Atlantic states that several neuroscientists are making solid connections between your birth month and potential disorders and challenges you may face.

With research further proving the validity of zodiac signs, it only seems natural to consider what the stars say about our relationships. Read on to discover what kind of man you should marry according to your zodiac sign. Those who are already planning the wedding may visit a bridal shop that offers a wide variety of Wedding dresses in Bethesda, MD to find their dream wedding gown.

NOTE: If you are wondering what woman you should marry, please see the separate article addressing this topic.

The zodiac sign dates below will guide you to your ideal zodiac sign love match.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Aries are true and honest people who prefer their freedom. You are most compatible with other fire signs, like Sagittarius, who understands your unpredictable behavior and who will share your love of adventure. You may also benefit from an affectionate, sociable Gemini; he will share your sense of adventure yet keep you at peace.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Ever-practical yet romantic and devoted, you crave a dedicated and down-to-earth man. Fellow earth signs like Virgo and Capricorn or Water signs like Scorpio and Cancer may be the best matches for you. Pisces may be a particularly ideal match, as he will balance your need for beauty with his creativity and talent.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

As a Gemini, you need a man with a strong intellect who charms you while listening to your problems. Your adventurous side could benefit from a playful Aries or fun-loving Leo, though the strongest connection is usually another Gemini or a rational, adoring Aquarius.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Cancers desire both attention and affection; you will marry a man who can offer you both. A family-oriented and gentle Taurus, a practical and loving Capricorn, or a detail-oriented Virgo may be the best match to provide an anchor in your love life.

Leo (July 23-August 22)

As a strong and dominant sign, you need to marry a man who accepts a subordinate role. Find another Leo and you will form a beautiful power couple together. A loving and warm Aries will keep your love life passionate, or a playful Gemini could guarantee endless fun for your entire marriage.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

Virgo is a zodiac sign that needs a grounded and ambitious partner. You’re happiest with a motivated man who has a sense of direction. Trustworthy Cancer or smart, reliable Capricorn lead to strong connections, though passionate Scorpio or Pisces would be fun.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

As a social and outgoing Libra, you need a husband who will continue to expand your social circles and keep life fun. Another Libra is a realistic and exciting match. You could also marry a Gemini with whom you would form a trusting bond, or a Leo who would keep your love life passionate.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

As a mysterious and eccentric Scorpio, you may find that another Scorpio is your best love match. You want to ensure you don’t find a guy who is too forward and flirtatious. An Earth sign like a focused Virgo or a reliable Taurus could be the best connection for you.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

You don’t want a man who will pressure you into settling down before you are ready. Avoid grounded signs like Cancer or Virgo in favor of someone more spontaneous. By marrying a fun-loving Gemini, a sincere Aries, or an adventurous Aquarius, you will be sure to have an exciting marriage.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

Capricorn is a zodiac sign that needs a partner who understands the value of hard work. You will likely choose a man who is a little older than you. Earth and Water signs like Taurus, Cancer, or Virgo will offer you the strength and security you crave.

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

Aquarius is a zodiac sign that appreciates the space to be your own person while still offering a sense of adventure. A Gemini will listen to and discuss your grandiose ideas while a Leo man would offer you an explosive and passionate love life.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

You need a realistic but loyal lover. A grounded Virgo or a Taurus can keep you in reality, while a fellow Pisces will keep you feeling a strong and eternal bond. A Capricorn or Scorpio will bring out your rationality in different ways while keeping life passionate.

Zodiac sign dates can determine the powerful love connection you find with your other half. This compatizbility chart can help you learn more about your perfect match.

5 Things You Need to Do During A Spiritual Awakening

August 24, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Spiritual awakening doesn’t happen by itself. If you’re waiting for the magic moment to occur when your cup of experience is full enough to overflow with enlightenment, you might be waiting a long time.

If we want to develop spiritually, we need to work toward that goal with purpose and intention, but how? Every person’s spiritual path is unique, but there are many commonalities. If you feel like you aren’t making progress, use these spiritual awakening tips to get back on track.

Here are daily habits that will help you during a spiritual awakening:

Awakening is Part of Everyday Life

There is a common belief that spiritual awakening happens in far off corners of the world or on top of mysterious mountain peaks. Some people believe you have to hide from the world or go on a three year trek to find yourself. While it can help to remove the distractions of life, unless you become a monk, you’ll have to return to the world. When you do, you might find that your realization doesn’t fit with the way you must live.

For those of us that can’t so easily shrug off our responsibilities, we must incorporate our spiritual practice into our lives. That means setting aside a part of every day to incorporate spirituality into your life. In a Goalcast article, the Dalai Lama expressed the importance of daily practice. If establishing a consistent practice means getting up an hour early to meditate, pray or whatever practice is important to you, do it, and be consistent.

Connect With Nature

One of the greatest spiritual awakening tips is to spend time in nature. You can take this literally by hiking trails or seeing natural wonders, but there are mundane ways to reconnect with nature that are equally powerful. Spending a little time gardening or running in your neighborhood can remind you of your connection with the world. A Japanese study shows how spending time in nature has many beneficial psychological effects. Our body, our mind and our spirit are all connected. One cannot be in harmony while the others are out of balance.

Putting it to Work and Helping Others

What is the point in working toward spiritual awakening if it doesn’t affect the world around us for the better? Make helping others a part of your daily practice. You don’t have to go to a soup kitchen every day, although volunteering is an excellent way to put your spiritual practice into action. Affirming and simply being there for the people in your life is just as important, if not more so, than saving the world. Your daily interactions with the people in your life are your greatest opportunities to put your spiritual growth into practice.

Learning and Codifying Spiritual Development Goals

To facilitate your spiritual awakening, you should set clear goals and approach learning in a rigorous, systematic way. Constantly look for guidance, and set time aside each day to study your teacher’s words, even if it’s only for 20 minutes. An article in Psychology Today shows how spacing out your study with short intervals can help you master material more quickly.

If you want to get grounded in meditation, make it a goal to meditate every day at the same time of day. Make it a goal to read a certain number of books each month or year. When you meet your goals, extend them. Like a bodybuilder who wants to constantly add weight to his exercises, keeping yourself under stress will force you to grow spiritually.

Hold Yourself Accountable and Confront Your Shortcomings

At the end of every day, before you go to sleep, review your day and hold yourself accountable. Review your practices and your interactions with the people in your life and ask yourself if you acted in a way that is consistent with your spiritual goals. Identify the ways that you fell short and, with determination, consciously decide to improve.

It’s not about punishing yourself; that is the ego puffing itself up. It’s about using your failures to grow toward spiritual awakening. Start a journal and keep track of the ways that you fall short and how you intend to improve.

It’s a Life-long Journey

Working toward spiritual awakening is a life-long pursuit that has no end. Even if you believe in a state of ultimate realization, you must still apply that realization. You must still live your life.

No one ever said that working toward your spiritual improvement would be easy. There are many challenges along the way. Be ambitious with yourself in your goals, but compassionate to yourself about your shortcomings. If you’re ever feeling a little lost, use these spiritual awakening tips to get back on track. Above all, remember that this is a process of love and discovery and never obligation.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Om1lmhaBngA

5 Things People Get Wrong About People With Autism

August 24, 2018 by Power of Positivity

For all the “awareness” campaigns flooding our social media, there’s still an astonishing amount of well-intended but incorrect or even harmful misinformation circulating about the experience and behaviors of autism. Are autistic people a code to be de-mystified? Are our behaviors strange and irrational? How can we connect with you?

There should be a brief definition of terms, before we begin: “allistic” means anyone who isn’t autistic, while “neurotypical” means anyone without a psychological condition or personality disorder; anyone who isn’t “neurodivergent.”

And finally, as you’ve probably noticed already, this article will use identity-first language. This decision was made for a complex but very important reason: this is the phrasing recommended by ASAN and the Autism Women’s Network, which, unlike Autism Speaks, are autistic-led organizations. Individuals have their own preferences about what manner they should be referred to, but as in any community, defining umbrella terms is a complicated and ongoing discussion.

Here are 5 things people get wrong about autism:

Misconception 1: Autistic people are trapped inside their minds.

Note that we didn’t say “autistic children.” It’s critical that we acknowledge the existence and work of autistic adults.

The misunderstood behavior in this case is autistic communication. Perhaps a person is nonverbal and communicates through grunts and sounds, physical gestures, or text. Perhaps a person avoids eye contact when speaking. Every day, we’re bombarded with stories about the miraculous healing of people like this, “unable to connect,” who finally “broke free of their body.”

This misconception comes from the idea that because autistic communication is different, autism must hold people back, or “trap” them away from their true (neurotypical) expression. This is far from the case and, in fact, there are many examples of autistic people who suffer when forced into neurotypical modes of communication and thrive when alternative communication is enabled. Carly Fleischmann’s parents believed her completely unable to connect with the world around her—until she was given the chance to type. Fleischmann grew up to start her own talkshow, still nonverbal, but heard.

More often than not, all autistic people are “trapped” in is the societal standards by which they’re expected to operate.

Misconception 2: Autistic behaviors are resistant and disobedient.

A child who covers their ears during class is “making a scene.” An adult who still won’t eat vegetables with certain textures “needs to grow up.” A student who won’t follow instructions is “resistant.” …Right?

The truth is that, while autistic people can struggle to learn societal standards of manners and socialization, there are real reasons for what they do.

Sometimes it can be as simple as explaining “why.” Compliance for the sake of compliance can be a challenge—one of the perhaps more virtuous behaviors of autism!

Sometimes, it can be helpful to ask “why.” Would a different classroom seating arrangement help them deal with noise? Would a different preparation help them eat vegetables? Human behaviors happen for a reason, and autistic behaviors are no exception.

Misconception 3: Quiet hands and bodies are self-controlled, well-regulated bodies.

It can be so painfully easy to want this. Maybe you’re a parent, and want for your child the same behaviors that signal a mind and body at peace to you.

In truth, many self-stimulatory behaviors (or “stims”) serve a self-soothing purpose. Being allowed to stim can improve focus, reduce stress, and help cognitive and executive function, and giving it up can be traumatic. When you see someone rocking, humming, flapping, or doing other non-harmful behaviors, know that the behavior doesn’t need to be trained away for them to be happy and successful.

Sometimes, stimming can be an important kind of communication! With time and patience, you can learn their language, just like they’re working to learn yours.

Misconception 4: They’re just “behaviors.”

Both through sensory differences and unique perspectives, autistic people experience the world differently. What would be an unreasonable tantrum for a neurotypical teenager, for example, can be a reasonable reaction to a shopping mall that is, to an autistic teenager, as loud and bustling as a death metal concert.

Seeing this as irrational behavior, and not a rational reaction, delegitimizes this individual’s needs (and teaches them their needs aren’t legitimate). Instead, know society can adapt.

Misconception 5: Autism stands in the way of love.

Some worry that autistic individuals will never feel loved or connected. But if anything it’s society, not autism, that’s isolating! The way to love an autistic person is not to force every indication of neurodivergence out. Some of us will grow up to speak more, hug more, make eye contact more, and some of us won’t, but none of that means we can’t feel or express love.

Autism is a way of being. Understanding its traits is a crucial part of understanding us.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQMK_4Nxdeg

10 Things That Happen When You Meet Your Soulmate

August 24, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Everyone wants to find their soulmate and fall in love. It’s a fact. Building relationships is human nature, and falling in love is something that people simply can’t help. Why would a person even want to prevent falling in love? It’s incredible, it can make you happier, and it can increase your self-confidence.

But what happens when you meet your soulmate? There are several changes you will undergo when you find that special someone. Your life won’t stay the same. You’ll have to make adjustments to meet the needs of your loved one. Love can last forever, and your body will have to go through changes to prepare. Below you will find 10 changes that happen when you finally meet your soul mate.

Here’s what happens when you meet your soulmate:

1 – Your Outlook Changes

You will no longer view the world the same way. You will start to notice things you have never noticed before, and you will find joy in things that you previously did not. You’ll be more optimistic, outgoing, and loving. Even a person that was truly happy prior to meeting their soulmate will experience a previously unseen happiness.

2 – It’s Not Just About Intimacy

According to NBCNews, you will begin to notice that your relationship isn’t all about being intimate. The relationship between your new soulmate may begin with a lot of time in the bedroom, but when you are truly in love, you will enjoy doing anything with your partner.

3 – You Will Become Vulnerable

This one isn’t always a good thing; however, it is nice to know that someone else has control of your emotions sometimes. Your partner’s feelings will become your feelings. This opens you up to vulnerabilities that you didn’t even know existed. These types of things happen when you meet your soulmate because you become more open to them.

4 – You Will Become Less Obsessive

According to Mary Lynn, the co-director of the Loyola Sexual Wellness Clinic, love lowers serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is responsible for many elements that make someone obsessive-compulsive.

5 – Your Brain Undergoes Changes

It isn’t only the serotonin levels that change in the brain. So in the brain, what happens when you meet your soulmate? A variety of feel-good chemicals are released in the brain, including dopamine, adrenaline, and norepinephrine. These chemicals create a range of physical reactions.

6 – You Will Smile More Often

You will not be able to stop smiling. This doesn’t only apply to times when you are with your soulmate. You will be smiling everywhere you go. You will be thinking about your special someone all the time, resulting in a constant smile gracing your lips.

7 – Productivity Will Increase

You want to make your soulmate happy, so what happens when you meet your soulmate? You become more productive. Productivity can increase because you want to let your partner know that you are good at something. You want to be a provider, and you want to be able to show your partner that you can become one.

8 – You Will Go Through 3 Stages

No one falls in love right away. Love happens in stages. These three stages are lust, attraction, and attachment. When you first meet someone, you will feel lust. If you truly click, you will feel attraction. Finally, you will become attached to this person. It can be hard to know if you are falling in love with someone; however, there are some surefire signs to look out for.

9 – You Will Become An Addict

Don’t worry, you won’t begin doing hard drugs when you fall in love. You will become addicted to your partner. A study confirmed that social attachment fires the same points of the brain that addictive substances do. There are plenty of examples of people truly becoming addicted to each other.

10 – Your Problem Solving Skills Will Increase

When you are in love, you become more intuitive. Not only will you be able to intuit what your partner will do, think, and want, you will be able to solve more complex problems in other areas of your life. This is mainly because you will have someone to help you. You always have a second opinion that is ready to help you in any way they can. You’ll have a lot to thank your partner for once you find them.

Final Thoughts on Learning What Happens When You Meet Your Soulmate

Love is truly a magical feeling. It makes sense that it would affect you in so many ways. Love can have bizarre effects on the body, resulting in deep, profound changes to how we behave and think. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Now that you know what happens when you meet your soulmate, you can prepare for these changes and enjoy them to the greatest potential.

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