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How to Do Meditation at Home : A Step by Step Guide for Beginners

June 16, 2018 by Power of Positivity

The health and spiritual benefits of meditation have been well documented, with reduced stress levels and a more positive outlook on life being among the key benefits. But for many beginners who are interested in starting meditation at home, the idea of sitting in silence for long periods of time can seem intimidating.

It is important to remember that every expert meditator was once a complete beginner. With a few easy steps, anyone can achieve a practice of meditation at home. If you have a desire to achieve the benefits of meditation, including a calmer mindset and a greater appreciation of the moment, follow the steps outlined below.

Steps to Meditation at Home

Find a Quiet Space

Before beginning your practice of meditation at home, it is important to find a quiet, serene space where you will not be disturbed while you meditate. This can be a spare room, a quiet corner of a bedroom or study, or even a spacious closet or extra bathroom. Any place where you have space to arrange a cushion and enjoy some silence will work for these purposes.

If you have a larger space to work with, consider adding some simple items that you find beautiful. These can include flowers, bamboo, or incense. Decorating your space can help customize your personal meditation corner.

Preparing to Meditate

Once you have found your dedicated space for meditation at home, place a flat cushion or pillow in the place where you will sit during your meditation. Choose comfortable clothing that is not too tight or restrictive for your meditation time.

Before beginning your meditation session, sit on the cushion or pillow with your back as straight as you can comfortably manage. Your legs should be loosely crossed in front of you. If this position is uncomfortable, you may extend your legs with the knees bent slightly. Rest your upturned hands atop your legs. You may wish to gently touch your thumb and middle finger together as you relax in your meditation pose.

Have a timer or cell phone alarm handy before beginning your meditation session. A 15 minute session is an excellent goal to aim for as a beginner, but even 5 or 10 minutes can have a substantial benefit. There are a number of free meditation apps that also offer timers, calming sounds, and spoken guidance.

Meditating

To begin meditating, gently close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply in through your nose. Exhale your breath slowly through your mouth, focusing on the sensation of the breath entering and exiting your body. Continue to breathe in this way, slowly in through the nose and out through the mouth. If it is more comfortable for you, you may inhale and exhale through your nose. The most important part is to breathe deeply, filling your lungs until you feel your diaphragm expand. The action of breathing deeply calms the nervous system and causes you to feel more relaxed.

Although at first you will likely be very distracted by thoughts, try to allow the thoughts to come and go without paying much attention to them. Focus as much as possible on the simple act of breathing in and out.

The trick to effective meditation is in allowing your mind to truly relax and let go of its grasp on the many thoughts that come and go. Don’t worry if you find yourself constantly distracted during your first attempts at meditation. Simply focus once more on the breath. When you have finished meditating, gently open your eyes and bring your awareness back to your surroundings. You should feel calm and focused. The benefits of meditation will continue to increase as you practice more.

The health and spiritual benefits of meditation have been consistently shown to be powerful and long-lasting. Meditation at home is a practice that has the power to calm your mind and nervous system. Long-term benefits of meditation include increased alertness, better sleep, and even improvements in memory and learning ability.

Final Thoughts on Meditation at Home

Although beginning to meditate may at first seem intimidating, in no time at all you will be enjoying a calmer mind and more relaxed attitude. Follow the steps above, be patient with yourself, and make meditation a part of your daily routine!

7 Red Flags That Reveal Someone Is Being Cheated On (Without Knowing It)

June 16, 2018 by Power of Positivity

The latest research shows the 22% of men and 14% of women have cheated on their significant others. The numbers grow even higher when considering “emotional cheating”–affairs in which people look outside their relationship to fulfill their emotional needs. Friendly feelings evolve into an emotional attachment and romantic attraction. 45% of men and 35% of women have emotionally cheated on their partners.

In our world it can be difficult to sustain human connection outside of technology. People can be lonely even when they’re in a relationship. Some people cheat because they want a self-esteem boost. Others like the thrill of getting away with an affair. Whatever the reason, there are always signs that your significant other is being unfaithful.

1. S/he is increasingly active online

10% of affairs begin on the internet. 40% of online flings turn physical. We all love connecting with others on social media. But a cheater can easily use an online account to strike up a flirty conversation with someone outside their relationship.

Over time, friendly messaging turns into a real life attachment. Unfortunately, it’s all too easy to hide an internet affair.

2. S/he has mysteriously become a workaholic

Staying late at work? Getting too excited over those boring business trips? Your partner might not be telling the whole truth. 36% of men and women have admitted to having an affair with a coworker.

The workplace has its own social ecosystem, separate from significant others. It’s a breeding ground for flirtations that can turn into something more serious.

3. S/he has cheated before

As the saying goes, old habits die hard. Former cheaters are 350% more likely to cheat again than people who have never cheated.

If you know that your current partner cheated on his/her former partner, proceed with caution. It can be hard to reform when you’ve gotten away with an affair once before.

4. S/he is an effortless liar

Some people lie so smoothly, they can convince you that anything is true. They seem completely unfazed when they get caught in a lie.

Pay attention to these signs. Even if the lies you catch are insignificant, your partner’s skillful fibbing indicates that they’re not afraid to look you in your eyes and tell an untruth. S/he likely does not feel guilty about lying and would not feel bad about having an affair.

5. His/her parents cheated

As a kid, your parents are your first template for how relationships should work. If one or both of your S.O.’s parents were constantly unfaithful, s/he may have absorbed that “lesson” at an early age.

New York City therapist Gilda Carle, Ph.D. describes this as “mirroring” the behavior of your first role models. It can be hard to break a cycle that was ever-present in your upbringing.

6. S/he is vulnerable

Maybe your partner just got fired or took a pay cut at work. Maybe they are self-conscious about their body, or frustrated about something else that’s going on in their life.

Periods of low self-esteem can lead to infidelity. When we’re feeling down, we want to be validated. We want to feel worthy. Often that quest for “validation” manifests in an affair.

Of course, your partner experiencing a rough patch does not necessarily mean you’re being cheated on. It’s important to attend to his/her emotional needs during a vulnerable time.

7. S/he is vigilant towards you

Suddenly your partner is very concerned with your schedule. S/he is always asking when exactly you’ll be home from work. In an act of projection, s/he might even start accusing you of unfaithfulness.

Your S.O. keeps tabs on you and is careful not to let you near their cell phone and/or personal computer. This is a red flag that your partner is hiding something.

None of these red flags are a 100% correct indicator that your partner is cheating on you. You should be certain before you make any accusations. But if the above issues persist, you might want to dig a little deeper. These days, it’s easier than ever to step out on your relationship. Apps allow people to hide incoming texts and calls. Websites facilitate secret romantic arrangements.

You deserve to be with someone you can trust. And once destroyed, that trust is difficult to rebuild. Unfortunately, infidelity infects romantic relationships of every type. Although you shouldn’t be paranoid, you should not assume it could never happen to you. Do your part to carry on an open, honest, and loving relationship with your partner. Don’t be shy about confronting them with your emotional needs. And remember, it is never your fault if you get cheated on.

Doctors Warn About What Happens to Your Ears When You Wear Headphones Too Long

June 14, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Headphones can be convenient, no question. They’re great for working out, relaxing – or signaling to that annoying co-worker that you’re unavailable. But headphones can also be unhealthy, even dangerous. Cosmetically, if you wear headphones too often, it can cause skin conditions such as acne.

More serious is the possibly damaging effect that headphones have on hearing. Studies show that listening to headphones too often at loud volumes can lead to permanent hearing loss.

Here, we will discuss some of the adverse effects of using headphones for too long. We’ll close by talking about what we can do to prevent these things from occurring.

Five Potential Problems if You Wear Headphones Too Long

1. Your Hearing Ability May Suffer

Wearing headphones or earbuds for too long or listening to music too loudly can damage your hearing. Consider that fully-throttled motorcycles and chainsaws generate approximately 100 decibels (units that measure the intensity of a sound), which can damage hearing in as little as 30 minutes.

Someone listening to music with earbuds, at just 70% of the maximum volume is getting about 85 decibels.

Called noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), hearing loss from headphones and earbuds is indeed a common thing.

Fortunately, NIHL is entirely preventable so long as preventative measures are taken. A good rule to follow is the 60/60 rule: listen to headphones at no more than 60% of the max volume for no more than sixty minutes at any time.

2. You May Get an Ear Infection

Rule numero uno: do not share headphones – ever. This is one of the easiest ways to transfer infection-causing bacteria. However, sharing headphones isn’t the only way to acquire an ear infection. Earplugs and headphones increase the temperature of the ear canal, which may induce skin abrasion and introduce harmful bacteria.

If you’re buying a pair of headphones from someone, ensure you disinfect them before wearing them. It is also a good idea to regularly clean your headphones, even if they’ve never been used by anyone else. This will keep the headphones and – most importantly – your ears clean.

3. Your Inattention May Be Dangerous

Many may love popping in the headphones while working out. The downside to doing this regularly is that you may pay less attention to your external environment – a good thing when you’re at the computer, a bad thing when someone is blaring their horn in a desperate attempt to get you to move!

To be safe (and courteous), consider pausing the music or turning it down if you wear headphones when you’re out on a bike ride or walk.

4. You Could Develop Vertigo

Vertigo is “a sensation of feeling off balance,” often accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. Described as “… an illusion of movement that is not there,” vertigo is a condition of the inner ear, which may surface from infections or diseases of the ear. As excessive headphone usage is tied to vertigo-causing conditions, misuse of headphones may indeed cause vertigo.

5. You’re Exposed to Radiation

If you’re using a wireless (“Bluetooth”) headset, you are exposing your body to radiation. While research is inconclusive regarding these low-frequency radiations on bodily health, the idea that we’re possibly subjecting our bodies to harmful radiation is troubling. In a 2018 study, the World Health Organization (WHO) found that radiofrequency (RF) radiation produces biological effects that mirror carcinogens in male rats. These findings have led to subsequent studies on what effects, if any, RF radiation has on humans.

Final Thoughts: Headphone Safety

The general consensus among the health community is that headphone and earbud use is probably safe with the proper precautions. Here are a few ideas to make your listening experience as safe as possible:

Always buy and wear new, out-of-the-box headphones. (Do not buy them secondhand.)
Listen at less than 80 percent maximum volume for no more than 90 minutes at a time.
When using earbuds, ensure that the plastic components fit snugly.
Do not force earbuds into the ear canal.
Wear noise-cancelling headphones.
Do not listen to music at loud volumes while walking or driving.
Seek medical care if you experience dizziness or trouble maintaining balance.

5 Healthy Recipes to Lose Weight Fast

June 14, 2018 by Power of Positivity

When it comes to weight loss, it’s probably fair to say that most people focus on what NOT to eat. But unless your diet is made up of food that helps you lose weight fast, you’re going to have a hard time shedding those pounds and keeping them off. With this pearl of wisdom in mind, we found some healthy recipes will help you torch some of that unwanted fat.

Here are 5 Healthy Recipes to Help You Lose Weight Fast

1. 3-ingredient salmon

How it burns fat to lose weight fast : Omega-3s are critical to metabolic health. While they may not directly make you lose weight, their various health properties indirectly stimulate the fat-burning process. Salmon is perhaps the best source of omega-3s of all foods.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound of fresh salmon

– 1 cup of freshly-squeezed lemon juice

– 2 teaspoons (tsp) of Italian seasoning

– salt and pepper (for taste)

Instructions:

– Place salmon in a shallow pan and add the lemon juice.

– Coat each piece of salmon thoroughly with the juice.

– Marinate the salmon for an hour in the refrigerator.

– Preheat the oven to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

– Lay the salmon onto a lined baking sheet or pan.

– Coat each piece of fish with Italian seasoning.

– Bake for about 10 minutes and serve.

2. Baked Veggie Omelet

How it burns fat to lose weight fast : Eggs are excellent sources of amino acids and protein. The former works to maximize the benefits of the latter, which results in extra calorie-burning. In other words, you start to lose weight.

Ingredients:

– 1 chopped onion (small)

– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

– ½ teaspoon salt

– 3 tablespoons tomato sauce

– 4 egg whites

– 2 eggs

– Nonstick cooking spray

– 2 tablespoons butter

– 1 cup of sliced zucchini, mushrooms, and bell pepper strips

– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

– ¼ cup shredded low-fat mozzarella cheese

– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

– Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

– Coat a large baking pan with cooking spray.

– Melt butter over a light heat in a large skillet. Add the veggies, basil, and onion. Cook 5 to 7 minutes while stirring. Add the pepper and salt. Remove from the heat and set aside.

-Whisk the egg whites, eggs, water, and salt. Pour eggs into the baking pan. Bake for 6-7 minutes.

– Combine cheeses in a small bowl.

– Cut eggs into 6-inch squares and place onto a plate. Add veggie, basil and onion and top with cheese. Makes 5-6 servings.

3. Chicken Farrotto

How it burns fat to lose weight fast : Just 3 three ounces of protein contains nearly 40 percent the recommended daily requirement for protein. Protein is critical to keep us energized and the metabolism going. It may just be the best nutrient for weight loss, period!

Ingredients:

– A boneless chicken breast

– 1 Tbsp chopped parsley

– 1 cup diced yellow squash

– ½ cup dry farro

– 1 Tbsp grated Parmesan cheese

– ¼ cup sliced red onion

– 2 Tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

– Add 1 Tbsp of olive into pan. Sear chicken and add salt and pepper to taste.

– With the remaining oil, saute the onion and squash; combine farro and stir.

– Add the water and bring to a boil. After boiling, reduce heat and cover the pan. Cook for 15-20 minutes. Stir in diced chicken, cheese, and parsley.

– Serve!

4. “Homemade” Soup and Asparagus

How it burns fat to lose weight fast: Aside from chicken, this dish features kale and asparagus – both superfoods. Both foods also promote feelings of satiety, or fullness. This means we’ll eat less and still feel full. Quinoa is packed with protein and fiber; it also stabilizes blood sugar and speeds up the metabolism.

Ingredients:

– One 3-ounce chicken breast

– 1 cup of vegetable soup

– 1 cup chopped kale

– 8 small asparagus spears

– 1/8 tsp freshly diced ginger

– 2 tsp dry quinoa

– 2 tsp soy sauce

Instructions:

– Preheat oven to 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

– In a medium-size saucepan, combine the kale, soup, and quinoa; bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.

– Place chicken into oven and cook for 20-30 minutes or until thoroughly cooked.

– Steam the asparagus and mix with ginger and soy.

– Add chicken to soup, quinoa, and kale.

– Place chicken onto a plate and serve with asparagus as a side dish!

5. Zingy Tofu and Quinoa

How it burns fat to lose weight fast: We’ve already talked about quinoa in all it’s fat-burning glory. Tofu, while a bit more subtle, is still a major boost to any weight loss plan. Why? Well, a mere half-cup of the stuff contains just 94 calories yet is packed with protein, calcium, and iron! The lime juice includes a hefty dose of antioxidants as well!

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked quinoa

– 1 tsp cilantro

– 2 tsp lime juice

– 2 ounces cubed tofu

– 3 Tbsp red pepper, diced

– 2 Tbsp sliced avocado

– 3 Tbsp green pepper, diced

Instructions:

Combine all of the ingredients into a bowl and hand-mix.

https://youtu.be/yG-G9_LOkLA

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

Sources:
https://draxe.com/fat-burning-foods/
https://www.everydayhealth.com/weight/omega-3-fatty-acids-weight-loss-aids.aspx
https://www.fitnessmagazine.com/recipes/quick-recipes/dinner/7-fat-fighting-dinners/?page=5
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/eggs-weight-loss-food
https://www.womenshealthmag.com/weight-loss/a20052572/healthy-dinner-recipes-0/

15 Quotes About Life to Never Forget

June 14, 2018 by Power of Positivity

When it feels like life wants to take you down, where do you turn? Some people turn up the music and tune out their surroundings. Others hit the gym and sweat out the stress. Maybe others enjoy reading quotes about life to help them remember that everyone is in the same boat. That’s what we’re bringing you today – some quotes about life that can hopefully keep you afloat when you feel like you’re drowning. We hope they bring some positive energy into your life.

Here are 15 quotes about life to never forget:

“You can’t calm the storm, so stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass.” – Timber Hawkeye

“Getting knocked down in life is a given. Getting up and moving forward is a choice.” – Zig Ziglar

The less you respond to negativity, the more peaceful your life becomes.

Take life day by day and be grateful for the little things. Don’t get stressed over what you can’t control.

We cannot start over, but we can create a new beginning.

You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress, simultaneously.

“The hardest walk is walking alone, but it’s also the walk that makes you the strongest.” – Unknown

“Sometimes you need to take a break from everyone and spend time alone to experience, appreciate, and love yourself.” – Robert Tew

“People know your name, not your story. They’ve heard what you’ve done, but not what you’ve been through. So take their opinions of you with a grain of salt. In the end, it’s not what others think, it’s what you think about yourself that counts. Sometimes you have to do exactly what’s best for you and your life, not what’s best for everyone else.” – Unknown

“A negative mind will never give you a positive life.”

11. “I am in competition with no one. I run my own race. I’ve no desire to play the game of being better than anyone, in any way, shape or form. I just aim to improve, to be better than I was before. That’s me and I’m free.”

“Ships don’t sink because of the water around them; ships sink because of the water that gets in them. Don’t let what’s happening around you get inside you and weigh you down.”

“We’re so busy watching out for what’s just ahead of us that we don’t take time to enjoy where we are.” – Calvin & Hobbes

“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” – Albert Einstein

15. The older I get, the more I realize no one has any idea what they are doing and everyone is just pretending.

Final thoughts

No matter how resilient we are, all of us fall down at some point. Everyone uses something different to help them keep moving, but we hope these quotes about life brought some joy and motivation into your day. Always remember that you are closer to happiness than you think, if you just remain grateful for what you have and choose to keep a glass half-full perspective.

Did these quotes about life give you a different perspective or maybe bring some positive thinking back into your life? Let us know in the comments!

5 Deficiencies That Cause Numbness and Tingling

June 14, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Have you ever experienced a case of ‘pins and needles’ or a subtle yet persistent sensation of numbness and tingling? If so, you might be more familiar with peripheral neuropathy than you think. While the term might sound technical and intimidating, it simply refers to the conditions affecting our peripheral nerves, which can lead to the unusual sensations we just mentioned. This article aims to provide a straightforward understanding of peripheral neuropathy, focusing mainly on how it contributes to numbness and tingling. Here, you’ll find a digestible explanation that de-mystifies this medical term, ultimately shedding light on what could be causing these sensations in your body.

Let’s talk a little bit more about peripheral neuropathy. Understanding the signs that reveal this condition, a common reason paraesthesia, the scientific word for numbness and tingling, is helpful. Then we will discuss the nutritional deficiencies that may cause this discomfort.

Seven Primary Symptoms of Paraesthesia

The symptoms of paresthesia can vary, ranging from mildly uncomfortable to severe, and each symptom comes with its unique set of characteristics:

Aching or Burning Pain: This type of discomfort may be constant or intermittent. It can manifest as a dull, heavy ache or a sharp, burning sensation. This pain is often a result of nerve irritation or damage in the affected area.
Sensations of a Part of the Body “Falling Asleep”: This sensation is usually temporary and is often described as a limb or body part feeling heavy, unresponsive, or difficult to move. It commonly occurs when pressure has been applied to a particular body part for an extended period, temporarily restricting blood flow. Thus, it impacts nerve function.
Pins and Needles: This symptom feels like tiny pinpricks on the skin and is usually due to temporary nerve compression.
Numbness: This involves a loss of sensation in the affected area. The area can feel dead or frozen. You might also experience difficulty perceiving temperature, pain, or other sensations. This symptom can be quite disconcerting and is typically due to disrupted nerve function in a specific area.
Tingling: This sensation can be likened to a feeling of “crawling skin” or a mild, constant prickling sensation. This is usually a result of increased or irregular nerve activity in the affected area.
Skin that feels hot or cold: In cases of paresthesia, your skin may feel unusually hot or cold. This is because the nerves communicating temperature to your brain may be impacted, causing your brain to misinterpret the signals.
Stabbing Pain (Chronic Paresthesia): Chronic paresthesia can result in severe stabbing pain that comes and goes. This type of pain can be quite debilitating and is often a sign of long-term or permanent nerve damage.

Understanding these symptoms in more detail can help you better navigate and manage paresthesia, and seeking medical advice when these symptoms persist is always recommended.

Now let’s talk about some nutrient deficiencies that may cause one or more of the above symptoms – primarily, numbness and tingling.

5 Deficiencies that Cause Numbness and Tingling

“Peripheral neuropathy may occur as a result of malnutrition, of which there are many causes including poor nutrition caused by unbalanced diet and alcoholism.” – The Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy

1. Calcium:

The body does not produce calcium, so we must obtain it via food and supplements. Calcium is critical for our health and well-being. Besides keeping the bones healthy and protected, calcium supports heart, blood, and muscle health. We lose amounts of this mineral through sweat, urine, and feces. And wouldn’t you know it, numbness and tingling are two of the most commonly reported symptoms of low calcium.

How to fix it:

Dairy products – for example, cheese, milk, and yogurt – are outstanding sources of calcium. However, plenty of other non-dairy foods are rich in the mineral. Soymilk, fortified cereals, bottled water, and breads are all good sources. You can also find plenty of quality calcium supplements on the market.

2. Magnesium:

Magnesium is involved in over 300 chemical reactions of the body, including the heart’s functions, muscles, and even hormones. As magnesium deficiency is known to disrupt nerve function, a shortage of the nutrient can lead to symptoms such as tingling and numbness.

How to fix it:

NIH estimates that only 48 percent of Americans get enough “Mg” in their diets. Good dietary sources of magnesium include cooked spinach, legumes, and pumpkin seeds. Supplements do suffice, though it is recommended not to take more than 350 non-dietary milligrams of magnesium daily. It is also worth mentioning that excess alcohol, caffeine, and soda speed up the loss of magnesium through kidney excretion.

3. Vitamin D:

Not getting enough vitamin D disrupts our body’s absorption of dietary calcium. Calcium, of course, is essential to bone health. These problems may also spread to areas of the extremities, including the muscles, which may take on a feeling of numbness or tingling. Vitamin D deficiencies may also produce symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, weight loss, and constipation.

How to fix it:

Sunshine is the best source of vitamin D. Cereals, milk, and soy products are good dietary forms of D. Supplements should be a last resort, however, as even minimal exposure to the sun combined with a well-balanced diet should do the trick.

4. Vitamin B12:

B-12 deficiency can produce symptoms such as depression, delusions, and memory loss. Physically, low B-12 levels can cause numbness and tingling, along with jaundice, joint pain, and a shortage of breath. B-12 is necessary for many functions, including the production of DNA, nerves, and cells.

How to fix it:

B-12 deficiency arises from one of two things: nutritional habits or an inability to absorb the nutrient. Further, plants do not produce the vitamin, putting vegetarians and vegans at risk. Regardless, the solution depends on the degree of severity. Mild deficiencies may be corrected with a simple multivitamin; serious deficiencies may require high-dose B12 tablets or other treatments.

5. Vitamin E:

As a potent antioxidant, vitamin E safeguards body tissue from free radicals. Aside from cellular protection, or perhaps because of it, “E” is known for its anti-aging properties. Vitamin E helps protects the nervous system. When the body has a low amount of usable E, we may experience numbness or tingling sensations in the hands, feet, and toes.

How to fix it:

Good sources of vitamin E includes broccoli, kiwi, mangoes, nuts and seeds (especially sunflower), tomatoes, and vegetable-based oils. Vitamin E supplements are generally regarded as safe. If you are pregnant, seek the advice of your doctor. High levels of vitamin E may pose a threat to the health of an unborn baby.

Final Thought: The essential nature of proper nutrition to stop numbness and tingling

The unfortunate fact is that far too many people are nutrient-deficient. This exists even though most of us are fortunate enough to live in an environment that provides an abundance of relatively inexpensive options for getting proper nutrition. Not only does a well-balanced diet help us feel better, but it can also can effectively fight off many of the conditions that plague us, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.

In many ways, numbness and tingling sensations manifest poor health. Subsequently, poor health is too often the result of bad dietary choices and lack of physical activity. Indeed, improving upon these two lifestyle factors can make all the difference!

100 Positive Things to Say to Your Child

June 14, 2018 by Power of Positivity

What words qualify as positive when directed towards a child? Obviously, words that are encouraging, supportive, and heartfelt are part of the equation, as are statements that instill a sense of determination, individualism, and self-esteem.

It is also important to keep in mind that what a parent doesn’t say is almost as important as what they do say. Words that are perceived as domineering, mindless, or authoritarian only serve to distance the child. At the other end of the spectrum is the parent who heaps unabashed (undeserved?) flattery onto their child, something that is both counterproductive and potentially damaging.

It is the opinion of experts that positive words to a child take on more meaning when they have the following characteristics:

Saying the child’s name first, as this gets their attention!
Speaking at the right volume and not speaking “over” the child.
Using regular eye contact.

With this in mind, here are 100 (!) positive things to say to your child:

You are cared for and loved.
I will always be here when you need me.
I’m grateful for you.
You are important.
Your words matter to me.
You should be so proud of yourself.
I know you will do great things.
Follow your heart.
The world needs you.
Always be kind, no matter what.
Always try hard.
Don’t give up.
You are enough.
You are beautiful inside and out.
Always help those who need it.
Everything good and positive comes back.
You are doing so good!
What you say matters.
You can always try again.
It’s just a mistake, and that means you can learn from it.
Be respectful.
That is really brave!
Always say “Please” and “Thank you.”
It’s okay to feel sad.
Do something kind everyday.
I feel that way sometimes too.
I’ll always love you.
I’ll stop what I’m doing if you need me.
Pay attention when someone else is talking.
There’s something to learn in everything.
I admire that.
You are awesome!
Always try to be curious.
What you’re feeling is normal.
Work towards solving problems.

“Words can inspire. And words can destroy. Choose yours well.” – Robin Sharma

Don’t think too much.
Go play!
Have fun!
Make a difference today.
I love your creativity.
Let’s try it your way.
You make me so happy.
Give me a hug.
Give me a kiss.
Being with you is fun!
Tell me all about it.
I love how you tell stories.
I appreciate your honesty.
Reading is a powerful thing.
It’s okay to say no.
I’ll always try to understand.
Tell me about your day.
What are you learning in school?
You look so nice today!
You make my life better.
Just be yourself.
Don’t be afraid.
Time will pass and you’ll feel better.
Enjoy the moment.
Learning is so powerful.
Love everyone.
Our family is better with you.
You have so much to offer.
Believe in yourself and your abilities.
You are a good boy/girl.
You are important to me.
Always be truthful.

“Be mindful when it comes to your words. A string of some that don’t mean much to you, may stick with someone else for a lifetime.” – Rachel Wolchin

It’s never to late to make a change.
Tomorrow can always be better than today.
Time goes fast, so use it well.
Put your mind to good use.
When an adult speaks, listen carefully.
It’s not too late to change your mind.
Start what you finish.
There’s pride in giving your best shot.
You don’t always have to win.
You can learn from everything, good or bad.
Knowledge is power.
Treat every other kid with respect.
Stand up to bullying.
Don’t always follow the crowd.
Put this money away for another time.
Don’t worry, be happy.
Let your mind settle down.
Think before you act.
If you mess up, be honest about it.
Good things come to people who work for it.
When someone asks for help, give it.
Give your best effort in everything you do.
Money is not the most important thing.
Pay attention to how you are acting.
Be smart with your words.
Never try to hurt someone on purpose.
Be generous and thankful.
Sleep is important for being happy.
You can do it!
Believe in yourself, even when no one else does.
Problems can be solved with the right effort.
The world needs good people.
I LOVE YOU!

5 Signs Your Soul Mate Will Never Leave You

June 14, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Whether or not you believe in soul mates, you have to admit that a long-lasting relationship is something everyone dreams of. In fact, in today’s busy world of dating apps and flirting culture, it’s so hard to find a partner who is in it for the long run. But believe it or not they do exist – and you may have just found your soul mate. It’s not about what stage you’re at in your relationship, or whether you’re married or just living together. There are partners who will be committed to you forever.

These special loved ones never make you second-guess their intentions, nor do they feel the need for your constant reassurance. They’re just there, and their comforting presence brightens up your every day. Is your partner really your soul mate? Will they stay with you forever? Here are some signs that can assure you to believe the answer is a definite, resounding “yes”.

Here Are 5 Signs Your Soul Mate Will Never Leave You

“I believe everyone has a soul mate [and] that they can spend the rest of their life together.” – Ryan Lochte

1. They don’t shy away from confrontation.

Maybe having confrontations in the first place sounds counterintuitive to a good relationship; however, you want to hold on to a partner who is comfortable with finding the best resolution to your fights. It’s never pleasant when you’re actually having the fight; however, it’s all about how you recover from a disagreement that speaks volumes.

A true soul mate won’t hold grudges, nor will they hold anything you’ve said in anger against you in the future. They’ll try to talk through your concerns and theirs, and they won’t give up on trying to find a resolution that works for everyone. They’re dedicated to making things better and to keeping you around – and that should be your number one sign that they’re in it for the long run. If someone tries to run away at the first sign of difficulty, you’re probably better off letting them go, because they won’t last long with you anyway.

2. They make your problems their own and help you solve them.

Are you having problems at work? With your friends? With your mother? Even if you try and get through them on your own, a good partner will see those problems as their own as well. They will support you and offer you to help in any way they can. Even if they can’t help, they’ll do everything they can to be there for you. True soul mates share every part of their lives, not just the nice parts. If they’re your soul mate, they’ll help you stay positive through the hard times and encourage you to engage in positive thinking as much as you can. They’ll also live out your grief and help you through it so that you both emerge stronger.

3. They’re happy at your success.

Being a true soul mate isn’t just about being there for the hard times – it’s about reveling in the happy moments too and partaking in the joy with you. A devoted partner won’t allow jealousy to stand in the way of their happiness for you. If you get a promotion, or get really good news, or even win the lottery – a true loved one will be overjoyed for you, as if those things were happening to themselves. Many times, we’re envious of the successes of others. However, when it comes to soul mates, they accept that your success is a shared one – and they’re nothing but happy for you.

4. They don’t try to run away from home, or from you.

It’s a bit hard when you live together with someone and you feel like you’re joined at the hip. Many couples can develop cabin fever very easily, which could be a sign that they weren’t meant to be. Your soul mate will be happy to spend time with you and won’t feel forced to do so. Of course, we’re not talking about them being overbearing – that would just be frustrating. But if they’re the kind of person you can talk to from the moment you wake up to the moment you go to bed and not get bored, then hold on to them. Those are a rare breed. Such open communication is a sign of true affection, devotion, and commitment to spending a lifetime together.

5. They understand sacrifice and compromise perfectly.

A soul mate will always put you first, even before themselves. They will know what you need, and they will go to the ends of the earth to provide it. Your dreams will be their dreams; your aspirations will be theirs. If you find someone who’s ready to walk every step of the long path of life with you, that’s a sure sign they’re ready for strong, consistent commitment. They aren’t going to skip out on anything that makes you happy just to satisfy one of their own needs.

Final thoughts

All the above are sure signs that you’ve found the elusive “one.” At the same time, love and commitment aren’t a one-sided process. You can’t expect to thrive on the other person’s affection and not give any back. A positive, healthy relationship requires just as much of you as it does of the other person. Give as much as you take, love as much as you are loved, and treat the other the same way you want to be treated. That way you’re showing that you are also ready for a committed, serious relationship. You are indicating that this person is your soul mate. They will be looking for those same signs in you, so don’t disappoint them or let them get away.

25 Foods to Eat to Lose Weight in Stomach

June 14, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Everyone’s looking for the right foods to eat to lose weight in stomach. Belly fat is common to everyone, including people with flat abs. Some belly fat is actually good for your body because it protects the organs inside your stomach.

If you’re rounder in the waist, however, experts say you might elevate your health risks. Deciding to trim down those “flabs” would be great for your well-being.

The good news is there are foods to eat to lose weight in stomach faster, along with physical activity and a few lifestyle changes.

Here Are 25 Foods to Eat to Lose Weight in Stomach

“Weight loss doesn’t begin in the gym with a dumb bell; it starts in your head with a decision.” ?Toni Sorenson

Note: Always consult your wellness advocate before starting any new regimen.

1. Whole Milk

If you’re looking for foods to eat to lose weight in stomach, a glass of whole milk is packed with nutrients and will keep your stomach full for hours. It’s better than drinking skimmed milk, which actually has less nutritional value.

2. Almonds

These. are rich in omega-3 and have low calories. Eat at least half a cup before your workout or if you’re craving a snack.

3. Avocados

An avocado contains healthy fats. Mash a batch to spread on your sandwich instead of using butter. Use avocado for your salads, too.

4. Beans

Beans are very effective for weight loss, as it’s a rich source of protein and fiber. Eating a cup and a half a day will keep you satiated and full.

5. Broccoli

This is another effective belly fat-burning food. It has phytonutrients that increase metabolism and immunity and decrease inflammation and toxins.

6. Cauliflower

This vegetable helps your body burn calories faster instead of digesting it into fat.

7. Chilled potatoes

When a potato has been cooked, and allowed to chill, it has resistant starch content, which means that it passes through the intestines without getting digested into fat. After cooking the potatoes, flavor the dish with pepper, yogurt, and mustard, and keep in the fridge for 24 hours before eating.

8. Clear soup

This can be made from chicken broth, or with vegetable, or mushroom. It helps lessen your body’s caloric intake. Enjoy it before eating your main meal.

9. Coconut oil

This form of oil has belly fat-fighting properties that are good for the cholesterol and digestion.

10. Cottage cheese

Cottage cheese has casein protein, which keeps the stomach grumblings at bay. If you eat this with whole grain crackers a few hours before you sleep, you’ll be less tempted at the thought of a midnight snack.

11. Eggs

Contrary to popular belief due to widespread concern about cholesterol, eggs have been proven to be an effective weight loss food.

12. Fish

Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and protein, which increase your metabolism. In other words, you burn fat faster and gain less weight.

13. Green tea

A drink of green tea gives your body a metabolic boost and it’s a strong antioxidant.

14. Jicama

This Mexican root vegetable has loads of fiber that absorbs blood sugar. It’s also rich in minerals like magnesium and manganese that aids in digestion.

15. Kimchi

A Korean staple food, Kimchi is rich in probiotics. It’s made of fermented cabbage, scallion, and radish, and seasoned with spicy peppers, shrimp paste, and koji powder. You can easily find Kimchi at Asian stores.

16. Kiwi

Along with other citrus fruits like orange, lemon, and grapefruit, kiwi are fiber-rich, flavorful and sweet. You can prepare these in many ways — to give salads a kick, to eat as desserts, or to blend as a smoothie.

17. Leafy greens

Speaking of salads, think of adding kale, spinach, and bok choy. They contain natural chemicals that benefit your gut.

18. Mushrooms

They are rich in vitamin D. Researchers say that a diet full of vitamin D may help with abdominal obesity.

19. Oatmeal

While oatmeal is fiber-rich, it also has whole-grain carbohydrates that stop the hunger pangs. Choose the unflavored kind that does not contain sugar.

20. Oysters

These are rich in zinc, which levels of the leptin that regulates your body’s appetite.

21. Peanut butter

Peanut butter has high levels of amino acids that break down into phenylalanine. It’s a hormone that curbs appetite and burns fat.

22. Plums

Compounds found in this fruit limit the fats your cells absorb during digestion.

23. Pumpkin seeds

A serving or two of these can easily fill up your body’s daily magnesium requirements. Magnesium is the secret to shaving off that muffin top.

24. Spicy chili peppers

This exciting food contains a compound called capsaicin. It has an effective fat-burning property that also helps the stomach feel fuller after a meal.

25. Yogurt

You probably know that yogurt has probiotics, which has been known to help with weight loss. It fills the stomach with gut bacteria that helps with digestion – therefore, becoming one of the best foods to eat to lose weight in stomach.

Why You’re Likely Not Losing Weight in Your Stomach

Sometimes, however, eating the right food and doing exercises aren’t enough to trim a wider waistline. According to experts, you could have a harder time losing weight around the belly if you experience the following:

Do you run on the treadmill or participate in Zumba classes?

A cardio workout might help burn the calories but a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) program is more effective in turning your fat into muscles, especially around the waist and hips. Start lifting weights to tone your body muscles.

Are you stressed or depressed?

Researchers in Holland learned that stress and depression raise your cortisol levels. You develop unhealthy eating habits when you’re feeling bad emotionally, which triggers the buildup of visceral fat on your stomach. Adapting a positive mindset benefits your body mentally and physically. You might need to make an effort to let go of toxic elements and start the habit of positive thinking.

Are you sleeping enough?

According to health experts, not getting enough sleep raises the body’s leptin level and lowers the ghrelin level, so you tend to eat high-sugar and high-calorie foods to sustain your energy. Start embracing good sleeping habits. Train your body to follow a sleep schedule. Importantly, keep your room orderly and minimize the digital stuff in the bedroom to make it conducive to sleep.

Do you like diet soda?

This drink is still filled with sugar despite the “diet” label. A few studies have proven that the artificial sugar in diet drinks actually causes more weight gain in the belly. Start drinking more water instead of diet drinks. If you must have juice, stick with real fruits and not canned drinks.

Final thoughts

Losing weight might not be a quick process but if you commit to the right foods to eat to lose weight in stomach, along with following healthy habits and regular physical activities, you will see the fruits of your hard work soon enough.

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

Do you run on the treadmill or participate in Zumba classes?

Are you stressed or depressed?

Are you sleeping enough?

Do you like diet soda?

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!