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5 Relaxation Techniques That Calm Children Down Before Bed

August 23, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Have you always wondered if truly helpful relaxation techniques exist to calm kids before bedtime? Putting the kids to bed can be a nightmare for many parents. Some children resist bedtime so much that every night turns into a power struggle. As a result, both parents and children get poor quality sleep, which may impact a family’s health. But bedtimes need not be stressful, so following are some relaxation techniques that will help calm children down before it is time for bed.

Here Are 5 Relaxation Techniques to Calm Children Down Before Bed

“Any situation we don’t control can trigger anxiety and stress…” – Beth Block

1. Use bath time to kick off the relaxation routine

For children, warm baths might simply be a way to get cleaned, but you can make this daily routine count more. Use bath time as a bedtime tool. A soak in the tub can be very relaxing for any age, including children. Too often, parents tend to rush their kids to get out of the tub. A bath time can be the start of a good ritual and relaxation technique before going to bed.

It’s beneficial to let your children indulge in a bubble bath with essential oils like lavender or chamomile to help their body relax. Lavender works to calm the nervous system, as per a study in the journal Evidence-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Chamomile, on the other hand, has calming properties as well. It can reduce tension in the body so that your child can calm down and sleep better at night.

Just make sure that your child doesn’t turn that bedtime bath into a playful soiree because it might supercharge their energy. Make it clear to your child that this bath is a time for calm, and carefully supervise this routine.

2. Read a sleepy storybook in bed

Having a ritual where you read a storybook to your child out loud before bedtime creates a lasting memory of family time in your child’s mind. It can boost the child’s positive behavior and attention development, according to Dr. Alan Mendelsohn in the journal Pediatrics.

As a relaxation technique before bedtime, however, make sure to choose stories that have calming and light-hearted themes to help the child get a more pleasant sleep. If you have older kids, let them read a paragraph from the book.

Make your voice low and full, and emphasize on the inflections in the story to sound interesting to the child. A story that will trigger positive thinking can definitely make bedtime relaxing.

3. Listen to calming music

Try playing the same track of music at a specific time night after night before your child goes to bed. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a lullaby, as you can play any soft music to trigger the sleep routine. Preferably, play the songs after you have done your bedtime reading.

This is actually a clever trick, especially for older babies and toddlers because they will learn to associate the music with bedtime. It will also help create a bedtime habit that your child can practice even as a grown-up. It will condition his body for bedtime at a specific hour every night, thus he won’t likely have trouble sleeping.

4. Try breathing or meditation

Teach your child breathing or meditation techniques to do before going to sleep. This is not just a form of physical exercise. Meditation can also improve the condition of a child with an attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, according to a study in the World Journal of Psychiatry.

Let your child lie down with his back straight on the bed. Ask him to close his eyes and be aware of the sound of his breathing. Let him count to 20 as you breathe along. Expect some hesitation or giggles from your child in the beginning, but be patient about it and persist on this exercise. You will both get the hang of this ritual eventually.

After counting to 20, let your child stay quiet, still, and with his eyes closed. Ask him to raise his hand slowly and be aware of the soft sound of his movements. Let him repeat this process at least five to ten times. Then end the exercise by letting him count his breathing to 20 again, but backward.

Sometimes, this form of relaxation techniques will make children fall asleep even before they can finish counting.

5. Let them keep a bedtime journal

For older children, perhaps encouraging them to keep a bedtime journal might help calm down their body and mind when it’s time to sleep. They can write anything on their journal; any thoughts that are racing in their minds, or feelings that are causing them worries or anxieties. They could even draw on their bedtime journal and be as creative as possible.

Jotting down thoughts and feelings can clear your head. A child who cannot easily fall asleep might benefit from a writing exercise because a clearer head can signal the body to relax. Psychologists told The Guardian that writing exercises trigger positive thoughts and make the brain happy.

Final Thoughts

If your child still resists bedtimes despite these relaxation techniques, consider consulting a pediatrician. Your child might actually have a sleep disorder and early intervention will ease your concerns and correct the problems.

10 Signs It’s Time To Let Go Of The Past And Live Happily

August 23, 2018 by Power of Positivity

People come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime; it’s the same with situations in life, too. If there is one constant, it is change. But how do you know when it’s finally time to break from the past and move on living your happiest life?

To be our happiest, best self, we must be able to let go… let go of past hurts, past relationships that didn’t work, and most importantly, of the blame we put on ourselves in most every situation.

Here are 10 signs it is time to let go and live happily:

1) When fear of change or the unknown stops you from taking advantage of new opportunities.

When we are living in our fear-based mind, we resist change, even those opportunities that could propel us toward the happiness we seek. Let go of that fear and get out there!

2) You’ve lost the excitement for things that used to light you up.

Sometimes, when we are stuck in negative thinking patterns, we feel numb to all those things we used to love and enjoy doing.

3) When you talk the talk, but don’t walk the walk.

If you say you know what you want and need to do to achieve that life you dream of, but consistently find yourself not acting, or doing the opposite, this is a sure sign.

4) There is something that your heart tells you you want to do, but you resist it.

If there’s something you have always wanted to do, and your mind wanders frequently into daydreams about it, this is a definite sign you are ready to let go of the past and move on. Don’t let fear stop you in your tracks.

5) When you feel stuck in a rut, or as if you have settled for less than you want.

There may be no more obvious sign than this. When your life feels completely stuck in a rut, or the pangs of having settled for less than what you want and deserve plague you, it’s time to do some soul-searching and let go.

6) Your relationships feel lackluster, unfulfilling, or stale.

We are the sum of the people we surround ourselves with. Who surrounds you? Does your circle lift you up? Do they support, encourage, and have your back? Do they fan your flames, or do they douse your fire?

7) You spend more time daydreaming about how things “should” be, rather than making any progress and enjoying the here and now.

Much of our own suffering comes from the expectations of how we believe things “should” be, rather than accepting and working with things as they are. Look inside; is your soul searching for something you don’t have yet? If so, what’s stopping you from going after it?

8) You feel lost, confused, or unsure.

When even the simplest decisions and choices feel monumental, or confusion is the general rule of the day, this is a definite sign you are ready for a change and ready to move onto the next happier phase of your life.

9) You feel like a fake or a fraud.

This one is closely tied to 3 above. When you know what you need and want to do, but don’t – or worse, unconsciously sabotage yourself – you can begin to feel like a fraud or a phony.

10) You know in the deepest, darkest part of your heart what you truly desire, but are too scared to do anything about it, or even tell anyone.

We all have our own unique, specific calling in this lifetime. If your heart and soul is urging you to do something you’ve always wanted to do, but you find yourself in resistance and fear, perhaps that is exactly what you need to be doing to move forward into your happiest and best life.

We all know holding onto the past isn’t healthy, but it can still be hard to let go. If you recognize yourself in any of the above, you owe it to yourself to take a good hard look at what it is you truly desire. Are you living your best life? If not, why? Examine what is holding you back. Get curious; ask yourself questions about why you can’t seem to let go of past hurts. Often, the familiar discomfort or pain of what we know seems easier than the potential discomfort of the unknown.

You are meant to be brilliant and shine in this life. You have your own unique gifts and calling, and all the rest of us in the world are waiting to hear from you. If your soul is urging you, listen to it; it already knows what you need to do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1u8qaermPc

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

10 Supplements For Common Skin Conditions

August 23, 2018 by Power of Positivity

If you suffer from skin conditions, you are probably familiar with the feeling of “I’ve tried everything and nothing seems to work!” Most skincare products on the market are substandard. Additionally, many are produced with only one goal in mind: to make a profit.

Consider this: in terms of revenue, the skincare industry doubles the cosmetics business. In 2019, the skincare market will have grown by more than 20 billion dollars in just five years. Keep this in mind the next time you fork over 100 bucks for some magic “overnight acne clearing” serum.

Here’s a little secret that these money hogs won’t tell you: that so-called secret formula often consists of nothing more than a few natural ingredients mixed together. Okay, so it may be a bit more complicated than that, but it’s fair to say that people can either eliminate or prevent most skin conditions – and without paying an arm and a leg.

Here are the top 10 supplements for naturally treating common skin conditions!

Antioxidants from raw honey

Raw honey (none of that manufactured stuff!) can do a bit of everything. Containing antibacterial properties and a soothing texture, honey is perfect for reducing inflammation and healing cuts. Honey also pulls moisture into the skin, helping to “plump up” the thin layer around the eyes that tend to darken. Finally, honey contains alpha-hydroxy acid which helps exfoliate and moisturize the skin, making it the best natural anti-aging ingredient around!

Hydroxy acid from citrus

Like honey, citrus fruits contain hydroxy acid. Companies use hydroxy acid in their products for numerous reasons, including its firming effect on the skin. Lemon juice is commonly applied directly to the skin (i.e., “topically”) to help promote natural skin pigmentation. Topical application of citrus fruits, like lemon and grapefruit, is one option; another is to simply eat more citrus, which is packed with vitamin C – a powerful antioxidant that helps your skin look its best!

Vitamin A1 (Retinol)

Also known as retinol, Vitamin A1 is needed to hydrate and moisturize the skin. Vitamin A and its compounds are often referred to as “retinoids.” Multiple studies demonstrate the effectiveness of topical retinoids in treating acne and photo-aging (aging by sun exposure).

Excellent food sources of vitamin A include fortified dairy products, dark leafy greens, dark-colored fruits, and beef liver.

Bromelain and papain (from pineapple and papaya)

Bromelain and papain are enzymes that act very similarly to alpha hydroxy acids. Found in fruits like pineapple and papaya, these two enzymes work by stimulating the skin in addition to exfoliating away dead skin cells. The result is skin that appears younger and much healthier. Topically apply homemade pineapple or papaya juice to achieve the best results.

Vitamin K

Certain nutrients are critical to treating skin conditions and promoting skin health. One such nutrient is vitamin K, which is thought to treat irritated skin, dark circles, pigment discoloration, rosacea, and spider veins. Excellent food sources of vitamin K include collard greens, kale, leafy vegetables, and mustard seeds.

Ascorbic Acid (from guava)

The delicious guava fruit contains a whopping 120 milligrams of ascorbic acid, or vitamin C, which is more than double the recommended daily value set by the FDA. Vitamin C helps constrict the pores, giving the skin a firmer look and feel. Per the University of Oregon’s Linus Pauling Institute, vitamin C helps synthesize collagen, promote cellular health, and reducing skin damage caused by the sun’s UV rays.

Lycopene (from tomatoes)

Lycopene is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that helps safeguard the skin from toxins such as environmental pollution. Look no further than a plump red tomato for a good dose of the stuff. Besides giving the tomato its beautiful red hue, lycopene helps protect the skin from UV radiation, fight acne breakouts, and reduce redness and swelling. You can consume tomatoes for the lycopene; you don’t have to apply it to your skin.

Water

While technically not a supplement, water is critical to treating skin conditions. Dry skin is often the result of a person not drinking enough H²O. Per the Mayo Clinic, men require about 15.5 cups of water daily, and women about 11.5 cups.

You may need a higher water intake if you:

live in a humid environment
are pregnant or breastfeeding
engage in intense exercise
have a high temperature or fever

Copper

Some claim that copper peptide is the most effective skin regeneration element around. Peptides from copper help regenerate and rejuvenate the skin, stimulate collagen and elastin production, and eliminate free radicals. Multiple studies confirm copper’s skin-softening and tissue-building properties.

Good sources of copper include avocados, beans and legumes, mushrooms, nuts, oysters, and seeds.

Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA), otherwise known as the “anti-aging miracle”, is perhaps the most potent natural skin supplement anywhere.

Topical application of ALA thickens the skin membranes, resulting in firmer and healthier skin. ALA also reduces swelling and puffiness of the face, resulting in a much more youthful appearance. Finally, ALA helps regulate the production of nitric oxide, which controls blood flow to the skin.

https://youtu.be/yKn7Oq8hNVk

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

10 Unique Ways To Eat Banana For Weight Loss

August 23, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Are you trying to lose weight? Most of us have been on and off the weight loss bandwagon a few times or more. To lose weight and keep it off, it is essential to follow a diet that is natural and easy to stick to. Choose healthy foods. Bananas are a healthy option that help enhance weight loss. Experts explain how they regulate blood sugar, digestive health, and satiation. These amazing benefits work together to optimize your weight loss results.

So, how do they work? They are rich in fiber and vitamins and are low in calories. They also help with muscle spasms that often accompany exercise. Plus, they expand in your stomach to increase fullness. You’re probably wondering how you can get started. Incorporate them into your meal routine in 10 unique ways.

10 Ways to Eat a Banana for Weight Loss

This superfood is a fantastic and delicious addition to any meal. They keep you feeling good and your weight will decrease as well. Make sure to combine them with other healthy foods and exercise for the best results.

1. Overnight Oats

Do you have a busy morning schedule that allows zero time for a meal? Overnight oats are an easy way to prep a delicious and portable breakfast. Add one whole ripe banana to your oats for even more flavor. All you need is one sliced fruit, a few drops of honey, a cup of almond milk, and a half cup of rolled oats. Mix all these ingredients together in a sealable mason jar. Leave it in your fridge overnight. In the morning, you’ll have a fresh breakfast that’s ready to go!

2. Pancakes

Ok, so let’s say you have time for a fully prepared meal in the morning. Banana pancakes are a healthier alternative to standard pancake mixes. They are simple and don’t contain all those unhealthy additives. Combine 1 large fruit with 2 eggs in your blender. Add one-eighth of a teaspoon of baking powder for fluffiness. Blend until the mixture is smooth. After that, just spread it on to your skillet and cook it like regular flapjacks!

3. Chocolate Fruit Bites

Are you a chocolate fiend? This dessert recipe is for you. Make a chocolate sauce with 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil and 1 and a half tablespoon of cacao powder. Make sure it’s unsweetened. Cut your ripe fruit into 1-inch slices. Afterward, simply stick a toothpick into each banana slice and dip them in your chocolate mixture. You also have the option to roll them in your favorite chopped nuts.

4. Smoothies

Smoothies are a great snack or breakfast option. You may use frozen or fresh bananas for this recipe. However, fresh ones are easier to blend. Chop two medium-ripe fruits into 1 to 2-inch slices. Add them to your blender with almond milk and your favorite healthy sweetener. Blend the mixture until it is totally smooth. You can even add your favorite protein powder to the mix. Doing so will give it a thicker consistency.

5. Granola Cereal

Granola cereal is full of fiber and easy to prepare. Make your favorite healthy cereal even healthier by topping it with some of this freshly chopped tropical fruit.

6. Chocolate Peanut Butter Nice Cream

This is a wonderful dessert substitution. It even adds a banana for weight loss. This recipe is great if you’re vegan or lactose intolerant. Simply slice up 2 frozen fruits and add them to your blender. Follow up by mixing in cacao powder and almond milk. Finish your nice cream with a dollop of natural peanut butter. Blend until you find the right consistency and enjoy this sweet treat!

7. Sushi

Don’t worry, you won’t be adding these sweet fruits to a fish recipe anytime soon. This is a dessert sushi. If you want a trendy way to eat a banana for weight loss, this is it. Dip one in your favorite melted dark chocolate and nut butter mixture. Roll it over some yummy chopped nuts. Finish your recipe by slicing your fruit into 1-inch pieces.

8. Bread

Bread is not usually associated with weight loss, so make it the healthy way! This banana bread recipe is lower in fat than most dessert breads. Add some mixed nuts to enhance the protein content as well.

9. Nut Butter Dip

This classic snack is straight out of your childhood. Plus, it’s simple. Cut your fruit into 1 to 2-inch slices. You can plate your fruit with a side of peanut or other nut butter for dipping. Eat this as a quick and healthy snack option that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

10. Yogurt

Yogurt is another snack staple. Although, it’s important to stick to healthy Greek yogurt. Top it with this sweet fruit to get those extra nutrients in for the day.

Final Thoughts

Use banana for weight loss in these delicious recipes. These tropical fruits contain several essential vitamins and nutrients that keep your body in shape and functioning properly. Experts say they are one of the best diet foods. This is vital if you’re trying to lose weight. Bananas can be added to your favorite snacks, breakfasts, and desserts. Use it in trendy recipes as well. It will keep you healthy and happy.

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

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

10 Early Signs of Tonsillitis (And How to Get Rid of It)

August 23, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Tonsillitis, though commonly a child’s ailment, affects people of all ages. The condition is characterized by an inflammation of the tonsils located at the back of the throat. It develops because of a bacterial infection or virus. While there are ways to positively treat the symptoms of tonsillitis, including a surgical procedure for recurring conditions, the best remedy is always prevention.

Here Are 10 Early Signs of Tonsillitis and How to Get Rid of The Symptoms:

“The throat also represents the creative flow in the body. This is where we express our creativity, and when our creativity is stifled and frustrated, we often have throat problems. Tonsillitis and thyroid problems are just frustrated creativity, resulting from not being able to do what you want to do.” – Louise Hay

1. Inflammation and swelling of the throat

Inflamed and swollen tonsils can be uncomfortable and might make swallowing food or drinks difficult. The inflammation usually causes the throat to appear red and feel tender. The lump on the throat can be bothersome as well, as it’s not just the tonsils that are swollen. Even the lymph nodes, the neck, and the area under the chin could be sensitive and tender. Drinking warm tea with raw honey can relieve the inflammation and swelling.

2. Pain in the throat

It’s common to feel pain when the tonsils are inflamed and swollen since the glands are irritated and stretched. The only way to relieve the pain is to relieve the inflammation. Gargle water with dissolved salt for best relief from this condition, as per the National Institutes of Health. But it’s also best to consult a doctor for an antibiotic treatment regimen.

3. Difficulty in breathing or talking

Aside from making eating hard, you could have problems breathing properly when you have a developing tonsillitis. Because your glands are swollen, it can block the airways in your throat so it’s also an effort to talk. You might want to use a vaporizer or humidifier in your room to help clear the airways.

4. Change in your voice

Because of what’s happening inside your throat, your voice might slightly change and become muffled, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. You might also experience a difficulty in opening your mouth. If gargling with salt and water won’t help, you could take lozenges containing benzocaine to relieve your throat.

5. Ear pain with a headache

The pain of tonsillitis might spread over the ear as the nerves on the back of the throat become inflamed. If the pain impacts the ears, it can cross over to the head as well. You could take over-the-counter painkillers to clear your headache and provide temporary positive relief. However, if the root of the problem isn’t addressed, which are your tonsils, the headache can recur.

6. Bad Breath

Developing tonsillitis might cause bad breath because of the increasing bacteria inside your mouth. Since you won’t have the appetite to eat when it’s too painful to swallow, your stomach might produce chemicals that can cause bad breath as well.

The tonsil stones that form at the back of your throat can leave your mouth smelling bad – and brushing your teeth won’t help remove the odor. According to dentist Thomas P. Connelly via Huffington Post, the tonsil stones have to be removed with an irrigator at the dentist’s clinic. To prevent the stones from forming, it’s a good idea to gargle with a mouthwash twice a day. Otherwise, a doctor might recommend removing the tonsils altogether as a final resort.

7. Presence of white coating

If you open your mouth wide and notice white spots around your tonsils, this is a sure indication of a bacterial infection. This is also a sign that your condition might be contagious, so be sure to cover when you cough or sneeze. If possible, limit your contact with other people or wear a mask when you do have to come face to face with people.

8. Flu

Influenza or flu might trigger complications in your tonsils because of your weakened immune system. If you have the flu, give yourself a complete bed rest so that your body can recover faster and you won’t have to deal with the complications. Drink plenty of fluids and take your flu medication as prescribed as well to speed up your recovery.

9. Cold sores

Cold sores, also known as herpes simplex virus, cause blisters and bumps around your mouth and lips. If this is not treated properly, it could lead to tonsillitis because of the presence of the bacteria around your mouth area.

10. Strep throat infection

Developing a strep throat infection can also lead to tonsillitis. If you are experiencing pain and discomfort in your throat along with fever and body pain, get yourself tested. If needed, take the treatment for Streptococcus bacteria so that it won’t progress to tonsillitis.

Best Treatment Course

In general, treating tonsillitis involves positive thinking and an antibiotic regimen, pain management, and fluid replacement therapy. In severe cases, hospitalization might be warranted especially if your condition affects the way your body functions and disrupts your activities. Tonsillitis that becomes chronic might have to be removed through a surgery called a tonsillectomy. Please always consult your wellness advocate before starting any new regimen.

https://youtu.be/KKB0jThAfnQ

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

5 Questions to Ask Yourself If You Think You Want Your Ex Back

August 23, 2018 by Power of Positivity

A few months after breaking up with your partner, you find yourself with a ton of questions, wondering if you’ve made the right choice. You have this yearning to reunite with your ex and that’s a normal feeling. According to The Journal of Social Psychology, at least one-half to two-thirds of ex-couples experience wanting to rekindle their relationship. But before you do decide to take your ex back into your life, here are some important questions you have to ask yourself.

Here Are 5 Questions to Ask Yourself If You Think You Want Your Ex Back

“Don’t forget to fall in love with yourself first.” – Carrie Bradshaw

1. What did not work in your relationship?

Examining why you broke up might immediately answer your questions of whether you should get back together with your ex or not. If it’s a reason that you both can rationally discuss, work out, and find solutions to this time around, then getting back together might be worth a second try.

Obviously, you had problems in your relationship so you called it quits. But you need to figure out if this problem will rear its ugly head again when you reconcile. Otherwise, the same old patterns will crop up.

If the cause of your breakup was due to major differences in your personalities, values, and beliefs, figure out how much you’re willing to compromise and accept. Sometimes, differences in a relationship can be a great thing, if it complements both partners. However, if the differences cause clashes and tension, then it might not be wise to proceed with the reconciliation.

2. How much have you grown up after the breakup?

Relationships bring out the best and worst in people. You need to ask yourself if you have grown up and improved since the breakup. If you don’t believe you experienced growth and if you’ve observed the same things in your partner, then it might not be a good idea to get back together at all. Jumping back into each other’s arms when you’ve not evolved will only cause the same problems to return.

3. Are your reasons for getting back together sensible?

Some people who reconcile with their ex do it for the wrong reasons. One of the worst things you can do is to get back together so that you no longer have to feel the pain, sadness, and rejection. You believe that accepting your ex back in your life will also bring back the positive feelings. But if you have not discussed the real issues or if you have not agreed to settle your differences, then there’s a big chance this positivity won’t last.

Getting back together if you still harbor resentment towards your ex won’t also be sensible. Your issues in the relationship will still be there. Think of relationships as if you’re building a house. Would you lay down the old and used bricks as your foundation?

Figure out what will make this second try different than the first. So, ask yourself these questions – what are the real reasons you want your ex back? Do these reasons matter more than why you broke up in the first place? If that’s a yes, then go ahead and give it another try.

4. How much are you willing to make this relationship work?

If you are leaning toward reconciling with your ex, how much do you want this to work? As it is, maintaining love and respect in a relationship is hard work. Mending a renewed but once broken relationship is even harder.

Will you be on the same page as your partner? Will you pour the same efforts to protect and value what you have? If you’re serious about getting back together, what will you do to prevent old issues and habits from returning? And if old habits that annoy you indeed come to the surface, are you prepared to deal with all that again? If you don’t feel good about these things, then it might be a sign you shouldn’t get back with your ex.

In some cases, you need to have a healthy dose of realism. Understand that giving the relationship another shot will not be a breeze. Some of the little issues you had in the past might still trigger and tick you off, even if you’re faced with new and different challenges. At this point, getting a therapist to guide and intervene might be helpful so that you can properly communicate with each other if you’re serious about renewing your relationship.

5. Have you forgiven each other and acknowledged your mistakes?

Apart from recognizing what went wrong in your relationship, ask yourself if you have truly forgiven each other and if you have acknowledged your own mistakes. Forgiving and owning up to your part of the problem is vital to moving on and starting a new chapter of your life together.

A study found in the Journal of Family Psychology revealed that when forgiveness is absent in a relationship that has experienced a conflict, then it is likely that this conflict will never be resolved. A lack of forgiveness between couples can strip the relationship of its positive, interpersonal ways of handling problems.

Another study by experts at UC Berkeley stated that people who don’t take responsibility for their actions are the ones who aren’t willing to change their behavior or make compromises. That should be a red flag when you want to get back with an ex.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on these questions before getting back with your ex will prevent you from making another mistake or wasting each other’s time. If it’s a bad idea to get back together, then it might be because the universe is clearing the path for you to meet somebody new. Remember, positive thinking is what you need right now to get through this confusing phase of your life.

https://youtu.be/B1u8qaermPc

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

10 Heartbreaking Reasons Why Men Leave Women They Love

August 23, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Love is like a flower: sweet, beautiful, and sometimes very colorful! Love is also like a flower in that it requires frequent pruning and watering for it to grow. Therefore, without the necessary ingredients, love may wilt and fade altogether.

It is an understatement to say life can be hard for a woman who has been left by her spouse. Hopefully this is something you have not (and will never) experience. It can feel like the end of the world. The partner who did not do the leaving may have so many questions, and no answers. Trust me when I say it is the hardest time of a woman’s life.

Have you ever been loved so much by someone that it never crossed your mind that they may someday abandon you? Well, even though love is real, sometimes emotions change. Sometimes things just happen.

Here’s my story: All my life, I have loved just one man. And he loved me too. He loved me so much that I was sure our love would last forever. However, we dated for only three years when things started going south. I pondered and wondered where I had gone wrong. I tried asking him, but he only said he wanted to pursue further studies. I felt shocked stupid by his response. But there was nothing I could do about it.

Well, if you have experienced something similar and are left wondering why, here are some reasons why men leave women they love.

Why men leave women they love:

Dissatisfaction in the bedroom

As women, we have to accept that our men love intimacy. But it is funny that a man will never tell you to your face that he wants intimacy. But if he grows tired from asking for it, he may just walk away. Research shows that men express their love for their women through intercourse. Denying him intimacy is equal to denying him a chance to show you his love. Also, frequent denial lowers their self-esteem. This is because you make your man feel undesirable. I mean, who does not like being desired?

So, if a man does not get intimacy from you or if he is not getting enough from you, my dear sister, he may begin considering thoughts about leaving you. This might sound harsh, but it is important to know the facts of how men tend to think and operate. If he is not being satisfied intimately in a relationships, he will likely move on to find a woman who will satisfy him.

Cheating

In most cases, dissatisfaction leads to unfaithfulness. Roughly 70% of men who cheat tend to leave the women they love shortly afterward. Not all men can give their love and affection to two different women at the same time. So, they tend to leave the woman they once loved for the one they have grown intimate towards. In all honesty, they may have mistaken this new romance for love.

Some say that men cheat because women allow them to. That if a woman does not treat her man right, another woman will. Although this might seem completely unfair, sadly, in many cases this turns out to be true. Sometimes men seek an outside relationship if they feel their current partner no longer gives him the love, care, and affection he desires.

Lack of intimacy

Over the years, you have likely read articles emphasizing men’s love for intimacy. However, it has never been indicated that men crave affection. Intimacy involves bonding with your spouse through kissing, hugging, cuddling, and sharing your innermost feelings and thoughts. When you wake up in the morning and kiss your man, that is being intimate.

Wait a minute, have you sent your man a simple text during lunchtime asking him how he is doing? Do you call him frequently to tell him you love him? If you have done this in the past, are you still doing it or have you stopped?

Women tend to feel comfortable and sometimes take intimacy for granted once they get into a relationship. They forget that love requires day-to-day actions. You have to work on it to keep the fire burning. Lack of intimacy is one of the reasons why men leave women they love.

Boredom

Men love women who add joy to their lives, not someone who is always angry and does not enjoy anything. Boredom is one of the reasons why men leave women they love. Men want women who are open to new ideas that add zest to a relationship. Let’s face it, some people are boring to be with. Decide that you won’t be boring and that you will do what it takes to keep that deep connection alive.

Fear of losing freedom

Ladies, although men crave times of intimacy, they also want their freedom. Do not hinder him from watching a football match with his friends. You should know that men highly value their boy time. A man may end up leaving the woman he loves if fears that he will lose the freedom to do the things he loves.

Loss of attraction

Men love with their eyes. Sometimes women neglect taking care of themselves. If you forget to dress well and make your hair, this action may be driving him away. A man loves it when he sees his woman making an effort to be beautiful for him.

Loss of attraction is one of the heartbreaking reasons why men leave women they love.

Trying to fix him

This is an important item on the list. Men hate being made into something they are not. When you try making him into what he is not, he will leave you the minute he notices. And even if he stays, he may grow resentful or bitter that you do not accept him for who he is. We all want to be loved and a huge part of love is acceptance. So, do not try to take control of your man’s life in that way. Respect each other for differences, even weak points, because that makes you both who you are.

Lack of emotional bonding

A man who loves his woman shows his vulnerability to her. He shares with her all his fears, weaknesses, and failures. This is not easy for any man, because they like to be strong. So when a woman is hard to approach, it becomes very difficult to bond emotionally.

When this happens, a man just might leave a woman he loves.

Lack of respect and appreciation

Love begins with mutual respect and attraction. Unfortunately, some women tend to disrespect their men by calling them abusive names or even badmouthing them. When this happens, a man feels disrespected and has no reason to remain.

Also, some women do not appreciate what their men do for them and are always comparing them with other men. Lack of appreciation is one of the reasons why men leave women they love because it lowers a man’s self-esteem, which drives him away.

Emotional co-dependence

Some women use phrases such as, “Without you, I would die,” or, “I could never love another man,” to try to keep their men from leaving them. It becomes very dangerous if your joy depends on your man being in your life.

Closing Thoughts

Naturally, you’ll want to do what you can to make your man happy. You should be someone that he can rely on emotionally. You need to respect and appreciate him. But remember that, above all, you are a strong and worthy woman. You deserve love and respect. Even if a relationship does not continue the way you hope, or ends sooner than you would like, you can make it through this. You can come out stronger than before.

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

Essential Nutrients For Moms Who Just Went Through A C Section

August 23, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Going through a pregnancy can be difficult for some moms. It is an emotional process that can be physically draining before you even get to the delivery and post-partum experience. The tiny baby at the end eases the pain, but it’s still important to make sure mom is taken care of throughout the pregnancy and delivery process.

This article is going to focus on some of the ways you can use nutrition to ease the transition through the post-partum phase. These tips are important for every mom, but those who just had a c section need to pay special attention to their bodies as that procedure is considered a major surgery.

Here are essential nutrients for moms who recently had a c section:

Protein

Protein is essential because it is one of the main building blocks of your cells. It can help the healing process run more smoothly and provide you with increased protection against infection. Adequate protein intake can also help you keep your energy levels up, which will be especially important during c section recovery.

There are many ways to get protein, even if you follow a plant-based diet. New moms are trying to care for themselves, plus a new baby, and are doing so on very little sleep. This means that simple and easy sources are best. Try having some hummus on hand to use with crackers or vegetables.

Zinc

Zinc is going to be a key driving force when it comes to your body repairing itself from having a c section. It’s a great nutrient that can also boost your immune system and reduce the amount of inflammation at your surgical incision site. Less inflammation will also lead to decreased pain levels.

One great source to use in order to boost your zinc intake would be pumpkin seeds. These can be tossed on a salad or into a smoothie for a great snack during the day. You can also incorporate more beans or lentils into a soup or stew for added nutrition.

Vitamins

Vitamins and minerals are great at any time, but certain ones become especially important during a c section recovery. You specifically want to think about vitamins A, C, and E.

Vitamin C is going to boost your absorption of iron, which will be discussed later. It will also help as your body tries to heal itself. You can find it in many citrus fruits, like oranges.

Vitamin A and E are also great for skin repairs and shortening the healing time from your c section. Try eating some fresh carrots or broccoli for a strong dose of vitamin A, and check out some sunflower seeds and hazelnuts for vitamin E.

Increased Calories

The healing process after a c section burns through a fair amount of energy in order to accomplish every step that needs to be done. This means that you will need additional calories from a nutrient-rich source in order to keep up. If you don’t, then you will likely begin to feel tired and you could put yourself at a higher risk for infection.

New moms also need a caloric increase if they are breastfeeding. Your body burns extra calories in order to produce enough milk to feed the baby. Plan to add a few extra healthy snacks and plenty of water throughout the day in order to keep your milk supply stable.

Iron

Often, there is a higher amount of blood loss through a major surgery like a c section versus that of a vaginal delivery. Iron is going to be a great addition to your diet because it will help your body produce more red blood cells to recover the amount that was depleted during delivery.

Iron is found in foods like dark leafy greens, tofu, beans and lentils. You will need to make sure you maintain adequate vitamin C intake to help your body absorb the iron. You may also need to increase your fiber intake if you take an iron supplement, as they can be very constipating.

Healthy Fats

Healthy fats can be found in things like walnuts and flaxseeds. They are going to help minimize the amount of inflammation in your body after delivery. In addition, they can help you increase your caloric intake in a healthy way.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article showed you some of the great ways to increase your nutrition after having a c section. It may seem like a lot, but try to take things one step at a time. Remember to drink plenty of water and add in some small healthy snacks throughout your day in order to get started.

https://youtu.be/Gn9EGLdxAiw

12 Health Benefits of Sprouts (That You Didn’t Know)

August 23, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Sprouts are one of the most nutritious foods you can consume and one of the best superfoods. Sprouts are made by soaking seeds of various plants until small white shoots germinate from them. These sprouts can then be consumed with different meals for additional nutrition and freshness of taste.

Sprouting naturally reduces the anti-nutrients in raw legumes, beans, grains, nuts, and seeds. Sprouted seeds can be cooked at a much faster pace than raw seeds. Along with the easiness of preparation, sprouted seeds contain so many benefits that it is unreasonable not to make them part of any diet. Here are the twelve sprouts benefits that you may not know about.

12 Health Benefits of Sprouts

Aids Digestion

The precise reason that all beans and legumes benefit from sprouting before cooking is that, in their raw form, beans, and legumes contain anti-nutrients and phytic acid that can block the absorption of minerals and vitamins. When sprouted, seeds release their living enzymes that boost the metabolic processes in your body and improve digestion. Dietary fiber found in the shoots of the seeds regulates digestion and keeps things moving within the gastrointestinal tract.

Aids Weight Loss

Sprouts are a nutrient-dense food that also has insignificant amounts of calories. With them, you get all the nutrients you need without the calorie bulk from eating too much food. The fiber in the germinated seeds keeps you satiated longer after a meal. The fiber decreases the ghrelin levels produced — the hormone that stimulates you to eat more.

Boosts Immunity

Germinated seeds contain high amounts of Vitamins C, A, and many others. Vitamin C fights infections and diseases, contributing to a more robust immune system. Vitamin A is a potent antioxidant that prevents cell damage from free radicals.

Stronger Eyesight

The Vitamin A inside sprouts is essential for improving vision and eye health. Eyesight and vision quality highly depend on the amounts of vitamin A in the eye. The antioxidant properties of the vitamin protect the cells inside the eyes from the effects of free radicals.

Supports Heart Health

Germinated seeds are a legitimate source of omega-3 fatty acids. This compound boosts the good cholesterol in the blood and reduces bad cholesterol levels that are responsible for major problems in the cardiovascular system. Omega-3 may also reduce inflammation in the whole body. This naturally decreases stress on the cardiovascular system. The potassium levels in the germinated seeds reduce blood pressure.

Maintains PH Balance

The PH balance in the body is essential for maintaining a healthy environment for cells to function properly. The foods that are a part of the modern diet tend to create an acidic medium in the body. This brings about most of the health conditions found today. Alkalizing the body means bringing the much-needed balance, so the cells can begin functioning optimally. Germinated seeds are highly alkalizing to the body. Eating them in their raw form ensures that this alkalizing quality is maintained and passed onto your body.

Maintains Youthfulness

Germinated seeds are a powerhouse of many antioxidant compounds. The main reasons that cells must renew constantly is because of the environmental damage caused to them by free radicals from the environment, poor diet, and stress. These free radicals can also influence the DNA inside the cells. Antioxidants counteract the activity of free radicals. Eating more germinated seeds means maintaining the youth of individual cells and the whole organism as a result.

Beautifies Hair

Your hair is one of your most important attributes. The vitamin A found in a sprout stimulates the hair follicles to grow stronger hair strands faster. The zinc inside sprout shoots stimulates the production of sebum — the natural oil the scalp produces to keep hair hydrated and strong.

Improves the Condition of Skin

The antioxidants in germinated seeds counteract the aging effects of free radicals. Vitamin C inside them stimulates the production of collagen — the main glue that holds connective tissue cells tightly together. Silica inside germinated seeds regenerates the connective tissues and removes toxins from the body, revealing bright and glowing skin.

Protects The Body From Disease

The oxygen found inside germinated seeds protects the organism against various bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Abnormal cell growth also ceased in the presence of oxygen. Diseases like cancer resulting from abnormalities in cell growth are positively influenced.

Increases Nutrients

If you suffer from any nutrient deficiencies or a multitude of them, germinating seeds is an excellent practice to get your full array of vitamins and minerals without isolated supplementation.

Boosts Metabolism

The wide array of enzymes in germinated seeds seriously boosts metabolic activity. The high amounts of protein in the food also boost the performance of chemical processes within the body. This leads to increased skin regeneration, bone density, and muscle growth.

Final Thoughts on Trying Sprouts for Better Health

A sprout is a multi-functional food that can be added to any dish and is a great all-in-one supplement to boost the regeneration of your entire body. Germinating seeds is easy to do at home. But please ensure you adhere to the guidelines of clean sprouting to get the best results from this fantastic superfood dish.

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

Here are 10 signs it is time to let go and live happily:

1) When fear of change or the unknown stops you from taking advantage of new opportunities.

2) You’ve lost the excitement for things that used to light you up.

3) When you talk the talk, but don’t walk the walk.

4) There is something that your heart tells you you want to do, but you resist it.

5) When you feel stuck in a rut, or as if you have settled for less than you want.

6) Your relationships feel lackluster, unfulfilling, or stale.

7) You spend more time daydreaming about how things “should” be, rather than making any progress and enjoying the here and now.

8) You feel lost, confused, or unsure.

9) You feel like a fake or a fraud.

10) You know in the deepest, darkest part of your heart what you truly desire, but are too scared to do anything about it, or even tell anyone.

Antioxidants from raw honey

Hydroxy acid from citrus

Vitamin A1 (Retinol)

Bromelain and papain (from pineapple and papaya)

Vitamin K

Ascorbic Acid (from guava)

Lycopene (from tomatoes)

Water

Copper

ALA

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!