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

8 Simple Exercises That Are Perfect For Relief From Lower Back Pain

Back pain arises as a result of physical injury, incorrect posture, and misalignments that are neglected, pulling muscles out of place. If you are one of the 65 million Americans reporting lower back pain and discomfort on a regular basis, it’s no wonder that we seek relief from this additional stress and strain.

Lower back pain treatment is solved in a number of ways, but not all of these options are accessible to everyone. For those experiencing mild to moderate pain on occasion, all that might be necessary is a simple pain management medication. Other options might be surgical relief or a chiropractic protocol for moderate to severe pain. If cost is an option and you find yourself in need of pain relief in between medical and chiropractic appointments, however, it might be beneficial to try some simple exercises at home to get the blood flowing and those vertebrae moving.

Doing these exercises regularly has proven to ease lower back pain and provide some relief from the stress that chronic pain can bring to your daily life. Practice these on a consistent basis, and you’ll be feeling better with each repetition.

Here are 8 exercises that will give you relief from lower back pain:

Good Posture Stretch 

Sit up straight in a chair, with spine extended fully from hips to the base of the skull. Bend your head down so that your chin touches your chest, or at least as close as you can get without straining. You should feel a stretch, but no pain. Hold the fully extended position with the chin touching the chest for 30 seconds, then release the head back up until you are looking straight ahead. Repeat at least three times to feel a loosening of the neck muscles, upper back, and mid back region.

Arm Circles 

Extend arms out fully to the side so that your arms are parallel to the ground. Perform a circle with the wrists while arms are fully extended, ten times forward, ten times back. Lower arms back down to your sides and repeat another full set forward and backward.

Ballerina Stretch 

Reach arms upward, clasping hands and fingers together over your head. Pull left arm to the right as you stretch over to the right, leaving arms fully extended overhead. Hold for five to ten seconds, then release and go over to the left side, pulling the right arm with your left. Hold on that side as well. As you leave the fully extended position, put both hands on top of your head as you fully extend “chicken wings” out to the side on either side of your face. Twist your spine one way, looking left, then right as you perform the twist with hands atop your head. Release your arms back down by your sides.

Wall Toe Touches 

This is a slow, deliberate stretch designed to relieve lower back pain if done correctly. Stand with your back against the wall. As you slowly bend forward, reaching your fingertips toward your toes, pull your navel to the spine and curl yourself into a C as much as possible until you are touching your toes. Stay in contact with your toes for as long as possible, arms fully extended, then slowly roll back up until you are in contact with the wall again. If you need assistance returning to a standing position, put your hands on your shins, then your upper thighs, to support you. Repeat five times slowly for best results.

Superman

Lie on your stomach on a firm surface. Slowly extend arms out as if you were Superman, then work to raise arms and upper body off the ground as much as possible, using the strength from your lower back and torso. Hold for 2-3 seconds, then return to the floor. Repeat ten times with upper body, then lift the legs and buttocks the same way, holding for 2-3 seconds and returning to the floor.

As a culminating move, and if you are strong enough, combine the lower body extension with the upper body extension, hold, and then return to the floor. Tightening that core will reduce lower back pain and strengthen your whole body from the inside out.

Cat Cow

Lower yourself to your hands and knees. Start by inhaling, releasing your belly toward the floor, and flexing your back so that its surface looks like a bowl. As you exhale, band your head toward the ground, arch your back like a cat, and fully extend your spine into what resembles a C curve. Combine breathing with the concave, convex motion of this exercise and you will increase the mobility of the vertebrae and loosen up the joints along the spine.

relax muscles

Down Dog

We can’t say enough about this yoga-inspired active stretch; it truly works all of the muscles in the neck, upper back, lower back, and legs. Lower yourself to a V position, with your hands and feet pushing away from the ground and your head in neutral position. Hold this position as long as possible, feeling the muscles in your back and along the backs of your legs lengthen and strengthen while your neck muscles rest in a neutral position, allowing for the release of additional tension. Drop down into child’s pose, a prone position where knees are bent and body is tucked in along the tops of legs while arms are extended forward away from the rest of the body. Relax in this position, taking deep breaths and deepening the stretch as you are able.

Proactive Stretching For A Healthier Life

Lower back pain doesn’t have to plague your life; combining conventional methods of lower back pain treatment with daily stretching and physical activity will allow you to remain mobile and active well into your golden years. Enjoy your newfound flexibility, youth and strength by renewing yourself with these exercises; when done regularly, they will turn back the clock and improve your health and vitality.

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

Researchers Reveal 10 Reasons You Should Drink Black Coffee Every Day

Caffeine is one of the most popular stimulants in the United States. Many people begin every day with a mean cup of joe. Some people love the taste while others love the effects. Regardless, there are always questions surrounding the health benefits of java. For example, is coffee for weight loss effective? Here are 10 health reasons you should drink black coffee every day.

1. Cleansing your system 

You’ve probably heard people say that coffee is a natural diuretic. This means that it can increases the rate at which you’ll urinate. While cleanses should always be used with caution, coffee can help clean out your system. Through our digestive and urinary systems, our bodies are able to release viruses and other harmful bacteria. Coffee helps to increase the rate at which these processes function. You can now rest assured that those frequent bathroom breaks from black coffee are not so bad after all.

2. Aiding in weight loss 

Weight loss has become somewhat of an obsession in our current society. Question marks often linger around the question of coffee for weight loss. The reality isn’t as simple as many may hope. It has been shown that a cup of joe can increase our metabolic rate which can result in the burning of fat. Our bodies get used to this pretty quickly and the effects stop after a while. However, that cup of caffeine can also act as a powerful hunger suppressant that has the possibility of resulting in less of an appetite.

3. Decreased risk of Alzheimers Disease and Dementia 

Alzheimers Disease (AD) and Dementia are both associated with memory loss, especially in older age. It is well-known and documented that caffeine provides a quick stimulation to the body’s central nervous system. Many people are curious about the long-term effect of coffee on cognitive functioning. Previous studies have shown it to have a positive effective against a decline in cognitive ability. In a CAIDE study, drinking 3-5 cups of joe per day was correlated with a decreased risk in both Dementia and AD. More specifics about this telling study can be found here.

4. Helps against depression

Depression is a serious condition that affects countless people in the United States. While expert attention should always be sought, there are daily routines that have been shown to be beneficial. Drinking a cup of java is one of these. One study suggests that drinking more than a few cups a day or more can lead to a decreased risk for depression.

5. Protecting against Parkinson’s Disease 

Parkinson’s is perhaps one of the most frightening neurodegenerative diseases. It may sound too good to be true, but a moderate amount of caffeine taken on a daily basis may have a protective effect against this awful disease. This prospective relationship between moderate caffeine intake and protection against Parkinson’s was primarily observed amongst female participants. More studies are currently underway to learn more about this potential connection. At this point, it seems that a cup of joe every morning can only help protect against Parkinson’s.

6. Related to eight of our genes 

While this isn’t directly related to making you healthy, it is incredibly interesting. Scientists have identified a total of eight genes that relate to our consumption of this wonderful java juice. Two of these genes were previously identified. This discovery can help lead to more answers concerning the way in which caffeine effects each individual differently.

7. Provides important nutrients 

While drinking that warm cup of joe in the morning, you’re probably not thinking of all the wonderful nutrients that are being absorbed. To be sure, black java is very rich in antioxidants and also helps with inflammation. In terms of specific nutrients, that cup every morning can bring you Vitamin B5, B2, B3, magnesium, potassium and manganese.

coffee

8. Increases cognitive functioning 

While that morning cup of java won’t turn you into an Einstein, there are some definite cognitive benefits. Roughly 40 minutes after consumption, the caffeine enters the brain and raises the amount of the norepinephrine and dopamine transmitters. This helps neurons to fire faster and can enhance your mood, energy and memory.

9. Reduction of type 2 diabetes 

Type 2 Diabetes is a condition affecting millions of Americans today. Fortunately, that morning habit of caffeine consumption may be contributing to a lower risk of this form of Diabetes. The Harvard School of Public Health(HSPH) conducted a study to discover what changes are made. Participants who increased the amount of joe they drank by more than one cup a day experienced an 11% lower risk for type 2 diabetes over a four-year period. This was in contrast to participants who made no changes in their consumption.

10. It makes us feel good 

One of the simplest health benefits of that java is making you feel good. Caffeine helps us to tap into many reward systems engrained in our brain. That feeling you get after taking a sip isn’t insignificant. However, this is also the reason that caffeine is so addictive.

It’s nice to hear that a cup of joe can do more than just wake you up in the morning. There are several health benefits associated with this daily routine. However, it is important to read into each study conducted to ensure the best understanding of the results. Furthermore, a medical professional should be consulted before greatly enhancing your daily intake of caffeine.

Reasons to drink coffee everyday

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Powerful Tips To Change Self Criticism Into Self appreciation

“Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” – Carl Gustav Jung

Expressing disapproval for a person or a thing comes naturally to most. While criticism in moderation can help to identify a fault or problem that is worth examining, it can also become a slippery slope of negativity with unintended consequences. Self criticism may allow us to learn from our mistakes, but it can also paralyze us with doubts and fears.

In today’s complex and fast-paced society, insisting on total control or seeking perfection are high-water marks that are rarely, if ever, achievable. Learning to limit unhealthy self criticism of ourselves can improve our mental and physical state. As the old adage states, “We are own worst critics.”

Steps You Can Take To Turn Criticism Into Self Appreciation

1. Do To Others As You Would Have Them Do To You

While it may seem counter-intuitive at first glance, understanding how to curtail criticism towards others is a solid first step in improving your own state of mind. Learning to criticize those around us less often helps to prevent the tendency of expecting too much from others. The immediately limits negative interactions that cause avoidable stress in our day-to-day lives.

Becoming less critical of others provides us with a path to follow when we turn our attention inwards. It takes practice to learn self-appreciation and the discipline required to change how we view others is transferable to how we view ourselves.

help quote

2. Become The Change Outwardly That You Want To See Within

The people that interact with you will learn how to treat you partially based on how you treat yourself. Expressing critical thoughts about yourself in front of others can influence their opinion of you in a negative way. It can also encourage them to become over-critical.

This can be even more devastating in front of children. This can lead to less appreciation for you in everyone’s eyes. Learning to avoid verbal criticism in front of others teaches us to keep our doubts and fears in check while fostering a healthier mindset.

3. Learn To Recognize Who You Truly Are

No matter where you go, there you are. Self-doubt and expecting too much from yourself can lead to serious depression. Become more realistic about what you can expect from yourself. Only then will you be able to set realistic goals that are obtainable.

Remember to stay in the present. Dwelling in the past not only prevents you from moving forward, it can fuel doubts about your present position. Continuously looking towards the future can also be detrimental in developing self-appreciation, especially when unexpecting obstacles turn up. Focusing on yourself at this moment can fend off the depression that often develops from self criticism.

4. Learn To Appreciate The Good… And The Not So Good

Your inner critic will remain silent if everything goes according to plan. Unfortunately, this rarely happens in our day-to-day lives. Learning to appreciate our efforts can go a long way towards realizing that often an outcome can be good enough. Flipping the script on your inner critic is a wonderful way to appreciate yourself.

Finding a way to pull some good out of a bad situation will also produce results. Everyone fails, and everyone makes mistakes. Place yourself in a loved one’s position, and become more constructive. There are silver linings that avoid criticism.

5. Accept Compliments From Others

When we become over-critical about ourselves we tend to shy away from compliments. At a time when we need to hear them the most, we tend to turn a deaf ear on the appreciation that others express towards us. It becomes very difficult to accept positive accolades when we feel so negative about ourselves.

 

Practice accepting these positive statements even if you feel they are undeserved. A simple “thank you” can help to eliminate the criticism that prevents us from being appreciative of ourselves and our situations.

6. Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help

Understanding ourselves can help to limit the damage caused by our inner critic. There are times though that all of the work we put in is simply not enough. That, in itself, can make matters worse.

If you find yourself struggling with your self-critic, don’t be afraid to reach out for professional help. Talking with someone who is equipped for the conversation can produce real results. Healthy and wholesome practices may overcome stubborn self-doubts and fears.

Some Final Thoughts…

Recognizing an over-critical mentality is a big step towards a more positive lifestyle. Taking the time to understand ourselves allows us to put into practice habits that can break the negative cycle. Learning to appreciate yourself allows you to work free from limitations and creates a healthier you!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mGLfi4MUwCw

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

5 Beliefs That Keep You From Finding Your Soulmate

Millions of people around the world are searching for their soulmate and hoping to find that one person that will make them feel whole. Are you one of them? And have you tried many things to no avail? Does internet dating, clubbing, speed dating, bar hopping, and being set up by your friends always end with the same loneliness at the end of the night? You are not alone.

In the modern world, there are many ways for people to find love. But finding love isn’t just about where to go or meet up with people. Sometimes people may have limiting mindsets or beliefs that keep them from connecting with that one special person that they may share their lives with. Let’s explore five common limiting beliefs that prevent people from finding their soulmates.

“There’s No One Good Left To Love”

Many people feel that everyone “good” out there has already been taken and that there’s no one left for them to love. And when you feel like there is no one “good” available anymore then you start to judge everyone you meet as “bad”. How can you let yourself open up to love if everyone you come across is immediately judged as bad?

This mindset can easily happen to people who have had their heart broken in the past. After your trust has been betrayed, it is important to not become jaded and let it ruin your future. While there actually are plenty of bad people out there that can hurt you, don’t forget that there are just as many if not more good people that are worth loving and sharing your life with.

When you start to overcome the bad experiences that have left you scarred, then it will be easier to move forward in the quest of finding your soulmate.

“They Will Change For Me Once We’re Together”

This is a common limiting belief that both sexes frequently struggle with. It also frequently leads to people getting into bad relationships and starting unhealthy patterns.

The bottom line? When you meet and start to date someone, ask yourself if you could live with them the exact way they are without them changing a single thing about themselves. If the answer is no, then you need to consider that this person is probably not the one you’re meant to be with.

Most of the time, you just can’t change who somebody is no matter how much you love them. If people want to change anything about their lives and who they are, then that is a decision they usually need to make for themselves. And if you find yourself wanting to change everything about your partner, then they are probably not your soulmate.

“I Need To Find Someone My Parents Will Approve Of”

When it comes to finding your soulmate, you may be inclined to settle for someone that pleases your parents instead of pleasing yourself. Unfortunately, a lot of people make this mistake and ultimately end up marrying someone that they never truley loved but whom their parents adored.

And maybe it isn’t your parents you are looking to please. Maybe you are trying to find someone that your church or religion approves of. Maybe you’re trying to find someone that fits in with your group of friends.

But how can this person be your soulmate if you aren’t the one choosing them? It is important for you to date based off of your own preferences and not the preferences of your loved ones.

“I Need To Settle Down Before The Age Of 30!”

This belief has caused many people to marry someone completely wrong for them just so they wouldn’t be single by a certain age. But you can’t rush love.

Contrary to the messages that we receive from the world around us, it’s okay to be single. And there are plenty of happy singles who are well into their 30’s, 40’s, 50’s, and older. If you find your soulmate and are happy with them at a young age, then that is perfect. But don’t jump into spending the rest of your life with the wrong person just so you don’t have to be alone.

It is worth it to develop the belief that it’s better to be single by the time you reach whatever age than it is to be trapped with someone who is totally wrong for you.

soulmate

“I Don’t Mind A Few Red Flags”

Stop right there.

Some things are red flags for a reason. Maybe you absolutely can’t be with someone who smokes or maybe you are allergic to cats and can’t be with someone who has them. Could the red flags you’re ignoring even point to signs of abuse?

This belief causes people to get stuck in bad relationships over and over again. Why get yourself stuck in something bad if you have an inkling that this person isn’t right for you? Don’t ignore red flags when they come alone. And foster the belief that you are worth being with someone without major red flags.

Don’t let limiting beliefs keep you from discovering your soulmate

Whatever limiting belief is holding you back, it is okay to admit you have a problem and find a way to try and move on. After all, finding love is a beautiful thing so why hold yourself back?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGPrRQYZ-ms

Living A Beautiful Life: Start Doing These 5 Things Daily

Everyone wants to live a beautiful life away from the great struggles and difficulties that can arise. The art of living well is fantastic because of how you have so much freedom in how you choose to do this. You want to live your life full of awesome people and unforgettable memories that will stick with you for the rest of your life.

Even life’s everyday struggles and puzzles can be made beautiful if you take the time to start living a happier life.

Five Daily Things to Live a Beautiful Life

what makes us beautiful1. Express Your Gratitude Every Day

The technology of today helps many people to live a beautiful life more than what the kings of the past lived. You have access to more luxuries and comforts than ever before. Unfortunately, not everyone expresses gratitude for these things, and they struggle because they can’t see the beauty around them.

Create a List

One of the things that you could do is to create a list of the things that you’re most grateful for. They might include:

  • My family
  • Pets
  • My job
  • The food in my refrigerator
  • Technology

gratitude quote

Training Your Mind

The great thing about expressing gratitude daily is its accumulative effect, and you slowly train your mind to be more positive than negative.

2. What Does the Good Life Mean to You?

An old saying says a beginner philosopher will ask, “What’s the meaning of life?” However, a more prudent philosopher will ask, “How can I make my life meaningful?” The truth is that the answer to living a beautiful life will be different for everyone. You might even ask yourself what has kept you locked in a cycle of continual unhappiness. It could be fear of rejection, failure, or making the wrong decisions. Once you have identified what will make your life more meaningful, go out and do this because it will lead you to have a happier and healthier life.

3. Give the Gift of Love

Love is one of those things that help to make life worthwhile. As Mother Teresa once said, “If you want a good friend, be a good friend.” While this might not always necessarily mean that you will get a good friend, it does mean that you will feel more love.

Why Giving Love Matters

Almost everyone in the world will tell you how they feel underappreciated. You can make your life more meaningful and beautiful by giving love to everyone in the form of tolerance, kindness, generosity, and acceptance. You never know what someone else is going through, and it could even be the thing that saves their life.

4. Forgiveness

Having a beautiful life means that you let go of the bitterness and resentment that you might feel toward other people. Maybe you have every right to feel angry toward that person because of how they stole $1,000 from you or they wronged you in some other malicious way. Forgiveness doesn’t mean you let others off the hook, but it lets you off the hook, which is why it matters so much. Hanging onto bitterness or anger is a lot like hanging onto a coal to hurt the other person. Unfortunately, it tends to have the opposite effect on you. You only hurt yourself in the meantime.

5. See Things from New Perspectives

During the hard times, you might have difficulty seeing what you’re going through as a gift of life. However, seeing the struggle as a chance to learn something will increase your chances of living a beautiful life. This change will make the hard times feel better and allow you to turn things around into a better situation.

In fact, this fresh perspective may make it easier to learn new things. Taking things from different angles gives you a great chance of learning something new from a different perspective. You might even breeze through your struggles more easily because of how it gives you another level of insight that you can use like medicine.

Ultimately, a beautiful life is your responsibility to have a good life every day. You should never leave the ship’s steering wheel unmanned because you’re in charge of whether you will feel happy or not. It can also help to understand the things within your control and the things outside of your control. When you take this into consideration, you don’t let the things outside of your control cause you as much harm because you understand how your reaction to it is vital. You want to be more flexible in your thinking patterns to have room to change, improve, and grow as a human.

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

10 Hidden Signs You May Be Being Cheated On By Your Partner

Being cheated on is tough. Cheating is one of the top reasons that relationships end. It is a betrayal and can be extremely hard to get past (but not impossible). It can also be hard to repair the feelings of the person who is being cheated on. Finding out a partner has been unfaithful comes as a shock that many people aren’t prepared for and their emotions can run wild.

Dealing with these emotions all at once can be very hard to handle, but sometimes our partners unknowingly give us subtle signs in advance that they are stepping out on the relationship. If you can learn to recognize these signs, it can help you to process the feelings more effectively rather than all at once.

Below are ten not-so-obvious signs you are being cheated on:

1. Your partner is being more secretive than usual.

Maybe your partner is planning a surprise party in your honor, but intuition will prevail in a situation like this. If your partner is suddenly hiding their phone, deleting messages, or not being honest about where they’ve been, this is a good sign that you are being cheated on.

2. Your partner doesn’t argue with you anymore.

It’s nice to think that your partner is suddenly always on your side, but if you’re usually involved in a normal level of relationship “tiffs”, this would be rare. They may have stopped arguing with you because they have another relationship they are committing themselves to.

3. Your partner doesn’t say “I love you” anymore.

It’s possible that they may just be forgetting to say it, but probably not. If your partner is suddenly not saying those three magic words anymore, it can be a sign that the flames are dying out of the relationship and also that there may be someone else.

4. Your partner has unexplained absences.

If cheating is going on, your partner may start coming home from work late, going in early, or going in on days off. They may tell you they will be in one place, but are actually somewhere else. This is one of the signs you are being cheated on.

5. Your partner begins dressing nicer or wearing nicer perfume/cologne.

This is especially true if your partner doesn’t usually do these things for you. They may be trying to impress someone else who has caught their eye. Unless there is a good reason for the change in style, this is a good indicator you are being cheated on.

6. Everything you do seems to annoy your partner.

One of the signs that you are being cheated on is that suddenly you and your partner just can’t seem to get along. It may seem that everything you do gets on their nerves and you feel like you are walking on eggshells around them.

7. Your partner’s usually predictable behavior suddenly changes.toxic relationship quote

If your partner is the type of person that does everything the same way all the time, or has a certain routine and then they suddenly change up out of nowhere, this is one of the signs that you are being cheated on. Maybe they are suddenly listening to new music, getting coffee from a new place, or anything else out of the ordinary. It may be nothing or it could be a new person in their life.

 

8. Your partner suddenly has new “gifts” that they wouldn’t usually buy for themselves.

Your husband suddenly has new cuff links. Or your wife is suddenly wearing a new charm bracelet. This isn’t so bad, but what is suspicious is that they didn’t tell you about it. You may have stumbled across it in some random sock drawer as if they were hiding it. This can be a sign that your partner is cheating.

9. Your partner starts criticizing everything about you and/or starts putting you down.

They used to be the most supportive person in the world, but now they think that you are a failure at everything. You can’t seem to do anything right in their eyes. Even the most well-thought out intentions seem to displease them. If this happens, there is a possibility that your partner is cheating on you.

10. Your partner suddenly starts talking differently.

This can happen if your partner has new friends, new co-workers, or new clients that they spend time with. However, if they don’t have any new people in their life (that you know of), they are spending time with someone who is influencing their lingo. This is a good sign that your partner is cheating.

Pay Attention to the Signs

Signs that your partner is cheating isn’t always as obvious as finding lipstick on their collar. Some people get good at hiding their infidelity. Despite this, there are usually inconspicuous clues that your partner is cheating, like the clues provided above. Use these to figure out what’s going in in your relationship and to prepare yourself before the cheating gets dropped on you like a bomb.

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

References:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/it-s-man-s-and-woman-s-world/201603/the-real-reasons-why-people-cheat
(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

7 Inspiring Books That Will Change Your Life

Let’s face it, changing your life around can be a difficult process. However, if you realize the nature of change it can be helpful for you to make the needed adjustments in your life. First of all, you will definitely have to do things differently. If you desire change, please be aware that it might mean stepping out of your comfort zone, as noted repeatedly by motivational speaker Anthony Robbins.

It’s also important to note that any change, whether it is organizational or personal, can actually be extremely painful. Indeed, sometimes we get used to things that are even bad for us. Once we have to change these bad habits, it can be a daunting process. However, it is for our benefit that we do so. How do we attain this needed change? One way is through books that can inspire us and coach us. Here are seven possible examples.

7 Inspiring Books That Will Change Your Life

The Art Of Happiness by the Dalai Lama

The Dalai Lama has always been an individual who has emphasized personal reflection and meditation when you’re on a journey to find true fulfillment and happiness. His Holiness the Dalai Lama believes that you can find complete and total purpose. Indeed, there are ways to be more inspiring and more positive. With that purpose, he believes you will find clarity, vision, and focus. In doing that, he believes you will be laying the foundation to empower you to embark on the correct path and journey to changing your life for the better.

inspiring

The Magic of Thinking Big by David J. Schwartz

Simply put, Dr. Schwartz believes creating change in your life will only occur if you change your attitude and your thinking. You have to prepare your mind and align your thinking to the journey of your own personal change. That is the key to the message of this book. Dr. Schwartz says the only thing that is stopping you from moving mountains is yourself. Train yourself to use the right words. If you believe you can move mountains, you can if you do; if you don’t believe you can move a mountain then you cannot. Belief triggers the power to accomplish great things.

The Greatest Salesman In The World by Og Mandino

Although this little book has been around since 1968, it still has much wisdom we can glean from. First of all, have you ever wondered what attributes truly successful people have? This inspiring book does a great job of educating you on that. Another reason why it can be added to the list of inspiring books would be because it teaches you all about the power of positive thinking. There is no question the book has great tactics and strategies for those who want to change themselves for the better.

Everything Happens For A Reason: And Other Lies I’ve Loved by Kate Bowler

As a professor at Duke Divinity School, Kate Bowler literally thought life was her oyster. Of course, this was until she was diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer at the age of 35. To say she was blindsided and shocked by these developments would definitely be an understatement. However, this book takes a heartbreaking and real look at the process of receiving a cancer diagnosis and how one goes through treating it. The book, above all else, is real. There is no questioning the fact it is full of grace, beauty, grief, and lots of wisdom. Bowler elaborate on the many coping skills she has learned from this gut-wrenching process.

Awaken The Giant Within by Anthony Robbins

In this work, Anthony Robbins details how everyone has the power immediately to control how they think, how they feel, and what they should do. In short, anything they want to do and anything they desire in their life, they have the power to achieve it. Anthony Robbins believes that this power is available in every moment of the day and it is something that with practice we can harness for our own better good. He believes it is all about changing your perception of yourself.

Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff by Richard Carlson

Richard Carlson believes that when you are able to manage the small stuff in your life, you will realize true happiness. The reason for this is that it is usually the small stuff that creates the most pain in your life. This is why Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff is a very supportive and inspiring book that is full of a lot of practical tips on living a more joyful and peaceful life. Indeed, this book has been inspiring and delightful to literally millions of people for decades now.

Switch: How To Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip and Dan Heath

This is a great book for those who know they need to make changes in their lives, but they are not sure how to go about doing it effectively. However, in this inspiring back chip and Dan share some tips on how you can create and continue positive change in your life. First of all, they educate people that they should not worry about the middle part of a project. Rather, they should just simply focus on having a strong beginning and a strong ending and that will get the ball rolling.

Conclusion

All of these inspiring books are very effective at giving you the pointers you need to improve your life. However, these aren’t the only inspiring works out there. Talk to others in order to get their recommendations and you will definitely find the right book for your motivational needs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=apVYj7spM1I

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

15 Weight Loss Makeovers That Will Help You Lose Weight

To lose weight, it takes time, patience, dedication, and extreme willpower. No one said it would come easily, but the end result (as well as the strength and health gained along the way) will always be worth it. You can always lose weight fast with weight loss fads, but to have lasting results, plain old diet and exercise are the way to go. If you want to lose extra weight but don’t have the motivation, we hope these photos of people who have lost extra weight will inspire you.

Here are 15 weight loss makeovers that will inspire you to lose extra weight:

1. 211 pounds down and looking happier than ever.

Transformation 384 to 173 Total weight loss of 206 lbs.

2. This goes to show you that age can’t stop you if you want to lose extra weight.

My Mum’s incredible weight loss transformation

3. Wow, can you tell these are the same people? This couple definitely knows how to lose weight as a team!

This couple’s incredible weight loss transformation from r/pics

4. Watch this woman literally shrink before your eyes! If you want to lose weight, this is the ultimate motivation.

Weight loss transformation from r/interestingasfuck

5. These twins lost a combined 143 pounds. If you want to know how to lose weight, they can definitely give you pointers.

Twin weight loss transformation M/18/6’1″ [240 > 175 = 65lbs] (left) M/18/6’1″ [260 > 182 = 78lbs] (right) from r/progresspics

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6. 90 pounds down and confidence gained. What a transformation!

F/27/5’7” [235lbs>145lbs=90lbs] Weight Loss Transformation from r/progresspics

7. From 444 to 190 pounds, this woman worked hard to become her best self.

(F, 30, 5’10”, 444 > 190) I need to get serious about losing the rest in 2016 from r/progresspics

8. Same woman in both pics, just 130 pounds lighter in the second.

Female/21/5’5 (255 lbs > 125 lbs = 130 lbs loss) I hit my ultimate weight goal this week. Doing a size 2 happy dance!

9. It’s hard to believe this is the same person! There’s no way to lose weight fast; just work hard and you’ll reach your goals!

F/38/5’7″ [408 > 188 = 220] (25 Months, Varied) Found a TRUE Before Pic, Face Gains, Mission Goal Weight in 2018 from r/progresspics

10. 100 pounds down in 17 months – talk about an inspiration!

F/58/5’6 [283lbs>183lbs=100lbs] (17months) Same jacket after 20-40-60-80-100 pounds lost. Thanks CICO and walking! Celebrating 100 by joining gym. from r/progresspics

11. 151 pounds down in two years.

F/27/5’0” [304lbs > 153lbs = 151lbs] (2 Years) For each pound that I lose, I capture a Pokémon! I have finally caught the entire First Generation. Now to start on Gen 2! from r/progresspics

Also, this woman knows how to have fun AND lose weight at the same time!

12. 125 pounds lost and looking like a totally new person.

F/27/5’4 [250 > 125 = 125 lost] Goal weight achieved! from r/progresspics

13. From obese to bodybuilding. Sometimes you don’t just lose weight; you gain a whole new passion in life.

F/27/5’4″ [260lbs > 130lbs = 130lbs] (2 years) from obesity to bodybuilding from r/progresspics

14. This woman definitely knows how to keep herself motivated to lose weight!

F/30/5’9” [320lbs > 165lbs = 154lbs ] (2 years) 20lbs left to go, keeping myself motivated by focusing on how far I have come from r/progresspics

15. We couldn’t leave the guys out! Remember, you CAN lose weight if you stay positive, work hard, and pace yourself.

M/37/5’6″ [334lbs > 193lbs = 141lbs] (16 months) Trying to remember I’m more than a number on the scale. from r/progresspics

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

10 Keys To Happiness, According To Science

Everyone wants to achieve happiness in his or her life. Happiness can be elusive, especially when we rely on external forces to make us happy. Everyone has difficult circumstances in their lives, but these happiness tips can help us create a spirit of joy in our own lives.

Scientists and researchers have compiled these 10 happiness tips to help you make the best of your own life, no matter your circumstances. Keep them in mind as you react to life’s stresses and joys.

10 Keys to Achieving Happiness, According to Science

 

1. Stop Pressuring Yourself to Achieve Money or Fame

Money may make life easier, but it won’t make you happy on its own. Neither will status or fame. Linda Esposito, LCSW, says “The concept of “everyone” does not exist when it comes to experiencing joy.” Everyone needs to find their own measures that will make them happy, and no one can tell you what your life “should” be before you can be satisfied with your life.

2. What You Want Versus What You Have

People who are more satisfied with what they have are happier overall. A University of Northern British Columbia study in the 1980s found that people who aspired to have more money, friends, career success, and health than others were less happy. Being content with what they had was linked to a higher level of satisfaction.

3. It Can Be Genetically Determined

Psychologist David Lykken says that our “set point” of how happy we are is determined by genes, but whether we can overcome this depends on training and experience. Even with a low “set point,” a person can encourage themselves to be happy with the power of positive thinking.

4. Reach Out to Others

Contributing positively to another person’s life can make us happy. When we give time and money to a cause, we are bolstering our own chances at a happy life. Feeling useful is a great way to be happy.

The number of personal connections we have is also associated with happiness. Christine Carter from the University of California at Berkeley says that both the quantity and quality of someone’s social connections positively affects their well-being.

5. Give Yourself Challenges

People who stimulate their minds regularly are happier. Psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi states that performing creative or artistic activities, as well as learning new skills, is related to a better outlook on life.

6. Be Thankful

Practice an “attitude of gratitude” to make yourself happy. When we think about the things we already have in life and count our blessings, we can boost our mood naturally. Think about your family, your children, your job, and the good experiences you have had in life.

7. Avoid Unhelpful People

As much as possible, try to avoid engaging with narcissistic or toxic people. If you do have to deal with them, try to separate yourself from their manipulation as much as you can. Don’t let yourself be dragged into their drama. Letting go of unhelpful relationships can greatly improve your life.

8. Be Truthful

Robert Feldman, a psychologist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, wrote The Liar in Your Life. He states that 60 percent of people can’t get through a 10-minute conversation without lying. When you are truthful, your conscience is clear and you don’t have to deal with the consequences of stretching the truth.

9. Exercise

Harvard study states that people with higher well-being are more likely to be physically active. People who are happier exercise more, which in turn boosts their mood. Getting into the trap of believing that exercise is too difficult means that people are less likely to exercise. Exercise can only have positive impacts on the mind.

happiness

10. Try to Smile

Sometimes putting on a happy face really is the best way to cheer yourself up. Studies show that smiling on its own decreases anxiety, even in stressful situations. Unhappy people may feel like being told to smile when they are upset is counterproductive, but it really can help.

Final Thoughts

When we look within for happiness, we are much more likely to achieve it. Only you yourself can choose to be happy. Stop relying on other people to make you happy, and instead cultivate a spirit of thankfulness in yourself.

Being thankful for life’s blessings will bring you joy. These happiness tips will lead you toward a more peaceful and fulfilled existence.

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

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