Page 987

Scientists Explain What Happens To Your Body When You Drink Coffee Every Day

October 13, 2017 by Power of Positivity

“Coffee helps me maintain my ‘”never killed anyone streak.'” – Anonymous

Not only does coffee keep a lot of us sane, but it contains so many health benefits that we question why you wouldn’t want to drink it if you don’t already. Of course, it tastes better with a few teaspoons of sugar and cream, but sadly, the benefits come from straight up black, pure coffee. Sugar and cream don’t hurt every now and then, though.

Before we tell you about what happens when you drink coffee every morning when you wake up, we should mention that if you buy coffee, try to buy organic, fair trade when possible. Also, go for pure coffee without added, artificial flavors, as this will lessen the health benefits you get from drinking it.

So, why is your morning java good for you, you ask? Well, get ready to feel even better about your caffeine addiction when you find out why!

Here’s what happens when you drink coffee every day:

1. It increases your metabolism.

This is probably the number one reason why people drink the stuff, anyway. There’s nothing quite like getting out of bed groggy and unprepared for the work or school day ahead and then downing a cup of joe and suddenly feeling like an Energizer bunny. While the energy doesn’t last long, it can certainly help us start our day on the right note. Plus, who’s to say you can’t have a refill or two in the afternoon?

Studies have even found that coffee helps increase your metabolism after a workout! A study published in the Journal of Applied Physiology discovered that endurance athletes who had a cup of coffee following exercise had a 66 percent increase in muscle glycogen, which helps the body replace energy quickly after a hard workout.

2. Coffee increases brain health.

Where should we start with all the brain benefits? Well, some studies have found that drinking 3-5 cups of coffee per day can decrease the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia by as much as 65% in middle-aged men and women. Other studies have found that a daily cup of joe can decrease the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease by as much as 32-60%.

Also, drinking coffee can inhibit a type of nucleoside in the brain known as adenosine. Adenosine decreases the firing of neurons and the release of beneficial neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine within the brain. Because caffeine blocks adenosine, it, therefore, increases the “feel-good” chemicals within the brain.

Finally, other studies have found that coffee increases cognitive performance, mood, reaction time, memory, and alertness.

3. It makes you feel good!

A groundbreaking study performed by researchers at the Harvard Public School of Health found that adult men and women who drank two to four cups of caffeinated coffee each day had a 50% lower risk of suicide compared to those who drank decaf coffee or no coffee at all.

In addition, coffee contains many antioxidants and beneficial nutrients such as Vitamins B1, B2, B3, and B5, as well as potassium and manganese.

All the nutrients and comfort you get from drinking a few cups of coffee a day will help you feel happier overall!

4. You have a reduced risk of skin cancer.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that older adults who consumed four or more cups of coffee per day had a 20% lower risk of developing malignant melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer in the U.S. Researchers believe that coffee helps to reduce the risk of developing skin cancer because of the many antioxidants and phytochemicals in America’s favorite drink.

5. You also decrease your risk of liver cancer.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the world and the third leading cause of cancer deaths. HCC makes up about 90 percent of all liver disease reported.

Just one cup of joe per day may decrease the risk of HCC by 20 percent; two cups by 35 percent, and four or more cups by 50 percent. (The FDA recommends no more than 400 milligrams of coffee daily – or four cups.)

Dr. Peter Hayes, a medical professor at the University of Edinburgh, says, “We have shown coffee reduces cirrhosis and also liver cancer. Coffee has also been reported to reduce the risk of death from many other causes. (In moderation), coffee can be a wonderful, natural medicine.”

6. Coffee helps reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes.

According to a study led by researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health, people who had one more cup of java per day than their normal amount over the course of four years had an 11% lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes compared with those who drank the same amount of coffee as normal. What’s more, the study discovered that those who decreased their coffee consumption by more than one cup per day increased their risk of Type 2 diabetes by 17%.

Now that you’re armed with all this knowledge about the benefits of coffee, we hope you will continue enjoying this delicious, medicinal drink, or get on the bandwagon and start indulging!

Share this Image On Your Site

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

REFERENCES:
CHEN, Y., M.D. (2015, AUGUST 01). LIVER CANCER – HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA. RETRIEVED JUNE 1, 2017, FROM HTTPS://MEDLINEPLUS.GOV/ENCY/ARTICLE/000280.HTM
CICALESE, L., MD, FACS. (2017, MAY 03). HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA. RETRIEVED JUNE 1, 2017, FROM HTTP://EMEDICINE.MEDSCAPE.COM/ARTICLE/197319-OVERVIEW
KENNEDY, O. J., RODERICK, P., BUCHANAN, R., FALLOWFIELD, J. A., HAYES, P. C., & PARKES, J. (2017). COFFEE, INCLUDING CAFFEINATED AND DECAFFEINATED COFFEE, AND THE RISK OF HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND DOSE–RESPONSE META-ANALYSIS. BMJ OPEN, 7(5). DOI:10.1136/BMJOPEN-2016-013739
SHELDRICK, G. (2017, MAY 25). DRINKING JUST ONE COFFEE A DAY COULD HELP BEAT CANCER: CAFFEINE SLASHES RISK. RETRIEVED JUNE 1, 2017, FROM HTTP://WWW.EXPRESS.CO.UK/LIFE-STYLE/HEALTH/808832/COFFEE-PROTECTS-LIVER-CANCER-CAFFEINE-HCC-HEALTH-BENEFITS
http://jap.physiology.org/content/85/3/883
https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/press-releases/increasing-daily-coffee-intake-may-reduce-type-2-diabetes-risk/
https://academic.oup.com/jnci/
http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.3109/15622975.2013.795243#.VmhziPkrLIU
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20182054
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/192731
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1356551
http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1467-3010.2007.00665.x/full

10 Conversation Starters For Introverts

October 13, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Introvert: (psychology) a person who tends to shrink from social contacts and to become preoccupied with their own thoughts. – vocabulary.com

While introverts draw their energy from internal sources, this doesn’t mean they all have a deep loathing for people. In fact, many of them do enjoy the company of (certain) people. But what makes an introvert truly different from an extrovert is that they have a limited amount of energy to spend on socializing. On the other hand, an extrovert can spend hours at a party and not feel tired in the slightest, feeling energized and excited by the crowd. He might even try to get his introverted friends to stay at the party longer. But his attempts will likely be in vain.

Many introverts are not inherently shy. They just have a smaller tolerance for being around groups of people too often or for extended periods of time. They don’t feel anxious around people, but generally enjoy their own company more than the company of others. However, for the shy introvert, feelings of anxiety arise when others talk to them, making even small talk all the more torturous.

No matter what kind of introvert you are, you probably struggle with conversation topics nonetheless. You probably have so much going on inside your mind that you simply don’t have the energy to engage with others, or maybe, you just really don’t like talking to people and would rather stick with the conversation between you and your mind.
Sadly, we can’t escape the reality that talking is part of human life, and we must interact with humans at some point. I mean, even the most introverted among us might find a human we actually like talking to, which would make conversation totally worth it!

Here are 15 ways for introverts to start up a conversation:

So, if you find yourself struggling with conversation at parties or other social engagements, maybe these icebreakers could help you out a bit.

1. Ask about someone’s job, family, or anything that gets the other person talking.

Since introverts generally don’t like being in the spotlight, ask the other person questions about themselves at any opportunity. This way, you won’t have to spend so much energy thinking of what to say and you can instead do what most introverts do best: listen.

Plus, this is a pretty general question, and will help with small talk until the conversation hopefully takes a turn for the “heavier” topics us introverts would much rather discuss.

2. Talk about travel.

Most people love traveling to far away lands and experiencing new sights, food, and cultures. This bonds people all over the world, because humans used to be nomadic creatures, after all. It’s still in our DNA to have a desire to get up and move, see new things, and have a different viewpoint in life. So, if you can bring up a few of your most recent travels, it’s likely the other person will have stories to tell of their own, too.

3. Anything food-related.

Humans LOVE food, if you haven’t noticed already. We spend hours thinking about what we want to eat next, or reading cookbooks to find a recipe worth making. Our lives revolve around satisfying our hunger, and everyone’s inner foodie quickly comes out when you bring up the topic. Food bonds people, too, so don’t hesitate to mention your favorite restaurant or the latest cake you made.

4. Ask what music someone likes.

Yet another common interest among people is music. I mean, have you ever met someone who said they didn’t like music? I sure haven’t, and if I ever do in the future, I’ll most definitely ask what planet they’re from. With that said, music is another neutral topic to start up a conversation with, and you might just find a buddy to go to concerts with, too.

5. Movies/books/other media.

So, you probably get the idea by now – basically, ask other people what they like. “What’s your favorite book/movie/magazine/TV show/etc?” Even if the person doesn’t read, he or she probably watches movies or TV shows. Either Game of Thrones or Orange Is The New Black is sure to get people talking, and if not those, there are literally thousands of other shows and movies to choose from.

6. “What do you like to do in your free time?”

Hobbies can get people talking for hours, because everyone does something in their off time, even if they don’t have much of it. You can also find common interests this way that could lead to a friendship, perhaps.

7. Show them a funny video or meme online.

If you get to talking about social media, you can always resort to your phone to sort of do the talking for you. It takes the attention off yourself, and gives you a break from thinking of conversation topics for a while. Plus, who doesn’t like to laugh?

8. Talk about current events.

This is another “safe” topic for the most part, and there’s always something going on in the world to talk about.

9. Ask where they’re from.

People love to talk about their hometown most of the time, but if they hated where they grew up, it might segue into other topics, such as travel, where they moved to after college, or what city they like best. You can talk about your hometown, too, and maybe include some interesting or funny stories about your stomping grounds.

10. Pets, or just cute animals in general.

Even if you don’t have pets, talking about animals (especially cute, fuzzy ones), is a surefire way to get people talking. Most of us have a soft spot for animals, and what makes them even more awesome is that there are so many different types of creatures to have a conversation about!

11. “What’s the craziest/scariest/most awesome thing you’ve ever done?”

Again, this takes the spotlight off of you for a bit and also allows you to get to know the other person a little deeper. People love talking about life experiences, especially those where they conquered a fear or did something most people haven’t, such as skydiving or base jumping.

12. Tell a joke.

Okay, so maybe you aren’t a stand-up comedian, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make people laugh. Jokes always break the ice, because people love to laugh and have a good time. Take one from the Internet if you have to, because no one knows if you made up the joke yourself or stole it from someone (they’ll be so busy laughing at your hilarious jokes that they won’t even question where it came from anyway). 😉

13. Favorite quotes.

This one could make for some stimulating conversation, because usually, two people don’t share the same favorite quotes, which means you can learn some new ones and also teach someone else at the same time. This could also lead to other conversation topics, such as favorite books/movies/etc.

14. Cool places to hang out in town.

Even if the person isn’t from your town, you could tell them of some interesting places to visit while they’re there, and possibly even show them around if you’re up for it.

15. Interesting things you’ve done recently.

Maybe you tried a new dish you’ve never had before, or swam with dolphins on a recent vacation. Whatever the case, think about what you’ve done lately and tell the other person about it – maybe they had some similar experiences and can keep the conversation flowing about it.

So, there you have it, a nice list of conversation topics when you feel stuck at a party and can’t think of what to say next. Of course, you’ll want to look over this before socializing so you don’t have to research it while at the party, because that would definitely make for a long, awkward silence, or them moving on to another conversation. (Which we’re sure some of you wouldn’t mind, but the point is to sustain a conversation with someone, remember?)

It might feel awkward or uncomfortable talking to people sometimes, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it with a little guidance and topics at the ready to talk about. Think of the bright side: you might just make a new lifelong friend by bringing up some of these conversation starters the next time you go out!

Let us know if any of these topics work for you at your next social event!

Sources:
http://www.lovepanky.com/flirting-flings/get-flirty/text-conversation-starters
https://www.forbes.com/sites/christinapark/2015/03/30/an-introverts-guide-to-small-talk-eight-painless-tips/2/#7f9ac9e9346b
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-introverts-corner/201101/chitchat-101-guide-introverts

8 Signs That Predict Your Relationship Is About To End

October 13, 2017 by Power of Positivity

A lot of people can tell when their relationship is over. There are plenty of tell-tale signs that predict that a relationship that had once been fulfilling for both partners is now not working for one or both. This usually means that the relationship is ready to end. There usually comes one specific point where people realize that their relationship is as good as over.

This doesn’t always have to be a bad thing. If you stayed in every single relationship you’d ever been in, you wouldn’t be able to find the one tailor-made person just for you. Sometimes, people become better friends once the relationship has ended.

Expert in divorce prediction and author of What Makes Love Last John Gottman, Ph.D., says, “People disengage when a relationship is about to end.” Therefore, knowing the signs that signify it’s time to move on can make the transition from being in a relationship less manageable.

Here Are Eight Signs Your Relationship Is About To End

“Relationships survive on trust, and if that is broken at any point, it’s pretty much the end of the relationship. Besides, inability to communicate leads to problems.” – Yuvraj Singh

1. Your most significant source of stress is your partner

For most people, being around their significant other is a way to relieve stress. However, there may come a time when the thought of hanging out with them or going home to them only adds to the focus of the rest of your day. This is a sign that the relationship has run its course. Feeling stressed or obligated to spend time with your partner only hurts you. When the relationship ends, you’ll find that you’re much happier and able to move on.

2. You’re not in it for the long haul

When you picture your life in a few years, do you imagine your partner by your side? And if you do, does it bring you joy or dread? If the answer is the latter, you’re probably ready for the relationship to run its course.

Dr. John Gottman says, “When the we-ness is lost, partners often describe their history to emphasize how it affected them individually, rather than as a couple. They prioritize getting what they want and ignore their partner’s needs.”

It can be a scary experience to realize that the person you’re with isn’t the person you want to be with forever, but once the truth comes out, it’ll be better for everyone involved and cause a lot less resentment.

3. You’re not talking as much as you used to … and you’re okay with it

If you go a few days without talking to your significant other, not even a phone call or a text, and it doesn’t bother you one bit, it’s probably a sign that you’re not as invested as you once were. Going a day without talking can be expected, but most people in a relationship want to at least check in on their partners. If you’re not feeling that desire, you probably need to talk with your partner about whether or not they’re feeling the same way. If they are, it’s probably best to call it quits while you’re ahead.

4. You’re happier alone

Introverts may often feel happy when alone, but even introverts enjoy spending time with their significant others. If you find that the minute you’re alone, you feel euphoria or relief, it’s probably a sign that you’re not enjoying your partner’s attention and presence as much as you used to.

Certified health coach Isadora Baum states, “If you’re not seeing each other as often, by choice, or are even avoiding each other, it could mean you’ve lost interest and should end things. If you’re happy in your partnership, you probably want to be around your S.O. as much as possible. If you aren’t feeling it, it’s time to break up.”

You don’t want to be around them, and they deserve someone who does.

5. You think about breaking up

If you have anxiety about breaking up because you don’t want to, it’s probably not a sign your relationship is doomed. However, if you find that ending the relationship seriously crosses your mind, that’s a sign that it’s probably time to let go. A relationship you want to be in forever is one where you don’t even entertain the notion of letting them go.

6. Your partner threatens to break up with you

This is usually a last-ditch effort to win or end an argument. Suppose your partner uses this as a tool in a dispute over something insignificant. In that case, it’s a sign that they’re not as invested in the relationship as you are – and that they’re using it as leverage, holding themselves hostage to keep you in line.

As relationship coach Kira Asatryan states, “Having a constant, nagging feeling that he’s about to leave is a sign of relationship instability. But if you no longer believe he cares, you’ll be trapped waiting, anticipating the minor incident that blows it all up. Is that any way to live?”

No, it’s not – it’s not healthy, and it’s best that you go ahead and call their bluff and end the relationship.

7. You’re convenient for them

A sign that your relationship might as well be over is when you realize that your significant other only have you around because you’re there. That isn’t fun and doesn’t build a long-lasting relationship. You deserve someone who wants you for you, not because you’re a convenient emotional or physical comfort source.

8. They’re controlling

A relationship should be two people coming together to form a partnership. However, sometimes we are overrun by our significant others’ influential personalities. When they start to control what we do, who we see, and what we’re allowed to enjoy, it’s probably time to end the relationship. If you wake up one morning and don’t recognize yourself, it’s time to get out and figure out who you are again.

Ending a relationship can be tricky, especially when you think back to all of the good times. There comes the point where those good times don’t outweigh the bad. Ending a relationship can be anything from freeing yourself from a controlling situation or simply transitioning from lovers back to friends. Relationships should be enjoyable, and completing them can be the best way to make them that way for many people.

6 Ways to Repair Your Relationship

How can you repair the rift and move on?

1. Actively Listen and Communicate Compassionately.

Sometimes, you need to get back to the basics when trying to heal your relationship. We all have a deep longing to feel seen and heard, but communication takes effort from both partners. Throughout the whirlwind of daily life, things can get lost in translation at times, and resentment begins to set in. When this happens, it’s crucial to slow down and make time for one another.

Perhaps a simple misunderstanding led to unresolved issues that have been swept under the rug. Maybe you’ve needed this talk for a while now. So, set aside an evening where you’re both free and lay everything out on the table. Put down your phone, turn off the TV, and tune into one another’s thoughts and feelings.

Research shows that active listening improves relationships by strengthening trust and breaking down barriers. Every relationship requires a safe environment where both people can feel comfortable expressing themselves. Giving the gift of active listening to your partner could help reestablish trust and reignite the flames in the relationship.

You can show your partner you’re listening in the following ways:

Turn toward your partner and look them in the eyes when they’re speaking.
Listen to understand, not to reply.
Ask them to clarify what they mean to show you’re engaged in the conversation.
Show empathy and compassion.
Avoid getting defensive if they accuse you of something. Instead, remain open about what they have to say, and apologize if necessary. Ask how you can improve moving forward.

2. Spend a Day Together Doing Something Fun.

Perhaps you two need to put your issues aside for the time being and enjoy each other’s company. Plan a movie date, go for a walk in the park, or even plan a weekend getaway if you’re feeling up to it. Throughout life, it’s easy to drift apart from the people we’re closest with due to the strain of modern living. We’re all busy with jobs, chores, families, and other responsibilities so that relationships can become distant.

However, that doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel if you truly love each other. Sometimes, you need a day full of laughter and relaxation to remember the special connection. Allow the stresses of adulting to melt away for the time being, and focus on enjoying your partner. You both deserve it!

3. Remember What You Love About Them.

Something about your partner drew you in enough to call them your boyfriend, girlfriend, or spouse. In the beginning, you only focused on their positive qualities during the honeymoon phase and ignored their flaws. So, what happened? Throughout a relationship, the excitement begins to fade, and you start seeing your partner in a different light. They’re not the perfect human you once imagined them as in your mind; they have weaknesses just like everyone else.

However, that doesn’t mean they’re not worthy of your love and affection. We all have issues we need to work on, but we can build each other up while remembering our strengths. Apply this tidbit of advice to your relationship, and watch it blossom back to life.

If you focus on what you love about your partner, you will have a more satisfying, deeper bond. They’ll feel more appreciated and will return this positive energy tenfold.

4. Practice Empathy.

Maybe you’ve both been so busy that you haven’t made time to connect. Perhaps your partner seems distant or uninterested in the relationship, but it’s because they’re stressed to the max about work.

Work takes up so much of our lives and energy that it can easily drive a wedge between partners. When this happens, and you feel like you’ve taken a backseat, your natural reaction is resentment, anger, and perhaps sadness.

You want to feel important to your partner, and that’s understandable. However, just because they can’t give you their full attention doesn’t mean they don’t love and care about you. Try talking with them and expressing your feelings, and remember to put yourself in their shoes. If you approach problems with empathy and compassion, you can deal with anything together.

5. Have Friendships Outside the Relationship.

Your partner shouldn’t be the only person in your life because one human can’t possibly give you everything you need. Both partners should cultivate friendships and visit family when possible since you need a break from each other sometimes. Plus, it’s normal to have strong social ties to a greater community since it offers a sense of belonging and support.

Taking one or two days per month to visit friends or family will take the pressure off the relationship. It also allows you room to grow and expand your horizons a bit. While your SO enjoys a guy’s night out, you can hang out with the girls, or vice versa.

6. Lower Your Expectations.

This might seem like a strange piece of advice, but hear us out. We often put our partners on a pedestal and expect the world of them, but they can only do so much. They’re not perfect, so having unrealistic expectations will only set you up for disappointment. If you’ve been demanding a lot of your partner lately, try to feel gratitude for what they already do for the relationship. They probably have many beautiful qualities that you overlook when you’re in a rough patch.

This doesn’t mean you should accept someone who doesn’t treat you well, of course.

Final Thoughts on the Signs of a Rocky Relationship

All relationships will inevitably encounter problems in life, but it’s how you respond to them that truly counts. Sure, some people should split up due to compatibility issues, but it’s possible to salvage a broken relationship. If you truly love one another and value the relationship, you will do whatever it takes to save it. Sometimes, communication and making time for one another can mend the wounds and provide a fresh start.

5 Signs You Have A Low Red Blood Cell Count

October 13, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Red blood cells (RBCs) are round, flat cells that serve an essential function: carrying fresh oxygen throughout the body.

Hemoglobin (‘he-moe-glow-bin’), the protein found inside RBCs, enables the cells to transport oxygen. RBCs also remove carbon dioxide from the body; carrying CO2 to the lungs for exhalation.

RBCs are produced inside bone marrow. The cells typically live for around 120 days before dying.

Chronic and Acute Anemia

Anemia is a condition that is caused by a decrease in the production of either RBCs or hemoglobin. The symptoms of anemia, which we will discuss shortly, are caused by loss of blood, the destruction of RBCs, or the abnormality of hemoglobin in the blood.

Two general kinds of anemia exist: long-term (chronic) or short-term (acute).

The physiology of individuals suffering from chronic anemia may adapt to low oxygen levels, which can make the condition difficult to detect without proper blood tests.

In the case of acute anemia, people often experience a quick escalation of symptoms, even with relatively mild changes in the body’s hemoglobin levels.

Hemoglobin

Hemoglobin, besides enabling RBCs to transport oxygen, also plays an essential role in maintaining the cell’s shape. Naturally, RBCs are round with narrowed and small centers, sort of like a doughnut without a hole.

When the structure of RBCs hemoglobin is abnormal, the cell cannot properly carry oxygen to cells. Also, RBCs ability to flow through blood vessels may be affected.

5 Signs of A Low Red Blood Cell Count

As mentioned, the type of anemia one suffers from may lead to different symptoms.

That said, low RBC count almost always diminishes the capability to deliver oxygen throughout the body. Unsurprisingly, the five primary signs are related to low oxygen levels.

1. Fatigue

Tiredness is the most common symptom of low RBC count. The lack of hemoglobin in the blood – which disrupts the normal functioning of organs – is what causes this sign.

2. Weakness

When organs and essential systems within the body do not receive an adequate blood supply, this inevitably causes the individual to feel weak. Routine activities may prove difficult to get out of bed, walk around, etc.

3. Irregular heartbeat

When we don’t have enough hemoglobin-carrying RBCs, the heart must work harder to transfer blood within the body – as there just isn’t enough of it. This extra activity can take its toll, leading to conditions such as irregular heartbeat – also referred to as an arrhythmia (‘uh- or palpitations.

4. Shortness of breath

Difficulty breathing stems from both the heart and lungs not receiving enough hemoglobin. Both organs require a steady supply of blood to operate correctly. Shortness of breath is often worse during periods of physical exertion.

5. Miscellaneous symptoms

To illustrate the wide-ranging symptoms of anemia, consider this response to the question “What is it like to have iron-deficiency anemia?” posted on Quora. An anonymous user replied:

“Tiring, very tiring [Respondent’s emphasis]… I had awful stamina…(Before treatment) I used to get very out of breath, dizzy, and (have) black spots in my vision. Breathing even without exercise was difficult, and it seemed like I could never get enough air in. My chest also hurt … My parents and friends even said on multiple occasions that my heart was beating rather hard and fast.”

“Awful stamina,” black spots in vision, chest pain, and dizziness are symptoms mentioned in the response above. Indeed, as there exist over 400 types of anemia (reportedly), symptoms may vary widely.

Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention

Anemia is the most common blood condition in the U.S, affecting around 3.5 million Americans.

As for the causes of anemia, WebMD cites three primary reasons:

Blood loss.
Limited or malfunctioning red blood cell production.
The destruction of red blood cells.

Diagnosing anemia requires a physical exam and certain tests.

Tests include:

Complete Blood Count (CBC).
Examination “to determine the size and shape of (red) blood cells.”

Treatment includes:

Iron supplements (for iron-deficiency anemia.)
Other dietary supplements (e.g., B-12, folic acid.)
Prescription medication.
Eliminating certain prescription medications that may be complicating the condition.
Oxygen administration.
Intravenous (I.V.) fluids.
Antibiotics
Blood transfusions (serious cases.)
Bone marrow transplant (serious cases.)
Surgery

As always, prevention is the best medicine. The Mayo Clinic recommends “a diet that includes a variety of vitamins and nutrients, including iron, beef and other meats, beans, lentils, iron-fortified cereals, dark green leafy vegetables, and dried fruit.”

It is also essential to reduce stress, which interferes with the production of hydrochloric acid.

8 Things In Your Home to Throw Away Immediately For Better Health

October 13, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Commercial cleaning products can trigger lung conditions, yet most people overlook this common cause.

“Cleaning products are not required to publish a list of ingredients on the bottle, even if they trigger skin rashes, asthma or are linked to cancer.” – Dr. Joseph Mercola

According to Dr. Joseph Mercola, “Household cleaning supplies are one of several products that may increase your exposure to toxins. In the pursuit of cleanliness and sparkling chrome, you may inadvertently increase exposure to indoor air pollution, inhalation risks, and contact absorption.”

Most people don’t think about their household cleaning supplies in terms of whether or not they’re healthy for you. Sure, many people know that they should not ingest cleaning supplies , or given to small children or pets. But a lot of people are unaware that the common household products that we use every day to keep our home clean are actually quite dangerous.

After all, we use those cleaning products under the assumption that they will actually make our homes safer. To most people, a clean house is a healthy house. While that may be true in some ways, in others, an overly clean house can mean that the people doing the cleaning are at risk for serious health issues.

The Organic Consumer Association states that, “In 2000, cleaning products were responsible for nearly 10% of all toxic exposures reported to U.S. Poison Control Centers, accounting for 206,636 calls.” Household cleaning products have chemicals in them that can lead to serious lung disease.

It’s important to know which cleaning products cause what problems. Thus, you can avoid them for more healthy and organic, chemical-free options. In addition, if you need expert help to clean your commercial space, check out the commercial cleaning services in Sandalfoot Cove, Florida. They have the best cleaners to assist your needs.

Here Are Some Common Household Products That Can Expose You To Diseases

Bleach

Many people know that bleach isn’t something to mess around with, but people continue to take the risk when it comes to using it for a clean house. “Bleach is one of the ingredients with links to lung disease, nervous system disorders, burns, and chemically induced pneumonia; mixing bleach with other cleaners may produce deadly gas,” adds Dr. Mercola.

Bleach may be excellent for disinfecting the problem areas of your home. However, studies prove that regularly breathing in bleach can actually increase people’s risk of developing COPD – chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Dr. Orianne Dumas (Ph.D.) from INSERM states, “We found that nurses who use disinfectants to clean surfaces on a regular basis – at least once a week – had a 22% increased risk of developing COPD. Earlier studies have found a link between asthma and exposure to cleaning products and disinfectants at home, such as bleach and sprays, so it is important to investigate this further.”

This is something you usually hear about in long-term smokers. You can mix a natural alternative to bleach with simply water, lemon juice, and hydrogen peroxide. This can help reduce the number of chemicals that one breathes in while using bleach.

Ammonia

According to this study, “Inhalation of highly hydrosoluble toxicants, like ammonia, can be associated with chronic lung diseases, which have been partially characterized.” Ammonia can be found in many common glass cleaners. It’s a common ingredient due to the nature of the chemical, in that it dries clear and doesn’t often leave streaks on the glass. Ammonia doesn’t have the same long-game that some of the other cleaning products have.

Those that get health issues from ammonia are going to feel it almost immediately. People who notice a reaction often have asthma or other lung problems. Strangely enough, a better alternative for window cleaning that has ammonia is actually … vodka! You can also use toothpaste for things like polishing silver, which is another ammonia based cleaner.

Chlorine

Most people don’t realize how much exposure they get to chlorine through their cleaning products. Chlorine is in toilet bowl cleaners, laundry whiteners, and products that can remove mildews. The problem with chlorine is that people can absorb the chemicals by breathing it in, as well as through their skin.

While the health effects of chlorine are relatively minor in comparison, they can be long-lasting. Chlorine can seriously disrupt one’s thyroid function. The healthy alternatives for chlorine are a mile long: baking soda and vinegar work well for toilet bowls and mildew, while vinegar and borax powder whiten clothes.

Sodium hydroxide

This is a chemical present in drain openers. Everyone deals with clogged sinks and drains now and then, and the easiest way through that problem is to get a chemical that eats right through the clog. Sodium hydroxide is extremely, extremely corrosive, which is why it can clear out clogged drains.

When it gets on the skin, sodium hydroxide can cause severe burns. And when someone breathes it in through the nose or mouth, it can cause discomfort, sore throats, or lung problems. Baking soda and vinegar down the drain is a healthier alternative to using a normal drain cleaner, and a mechanical snake tool can help get out nasty clogs.

Final thoughts

Most of us trust our household cleaners to keep our home safe – and many do! But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t be wary of the chemicals that come in even the most common of household cleaners. You should examine even the most mainstream and popular cleaning products for chemicals that can cause health risks. The health risks that come with using household cleaners with dangerous chemicals may not always be immediate. However, they can be long-term and chronic if you don’t take proper precautions. Alternative cleaning solutions with natural ingredients and non-harmful chemicals can keep households safe and people healthy.

7 Signs You’re Emotionally Drained By Your Partner

October 13, 2017 by Power of Positivity

No one wants to consider that their partner might feel drained of their emotional well-being. After all, relationships should be a source of emotional wealth and happiness.

But unfortunately, “People we love can sometimes drain us the most. Our mates may not be trying to do this, but life’s demands add up,” adds psychiatrist, intuitive healer, and author Judith Orloff MD. This feeling happens because relationships don’t always work out the way we had envisioned.

Do you find that you’re not feeling quite like yourself after spending time with your significant other? This drained feeling may be a sign that something’s amiss. Your relationship could entirely consume you without even knowing it. Being too wrapped up in your significant other can make it hard to examine whether or not the relationship is a healthy one. There are some tell-tale signs that your partner is a significant drain on your emotional energy, and that something has to give.

“If your relationship is one sided and one person is doing all the giving, don’t be surprised when the other gets emotionally drained and gives up.” – Unknown

Here Are 7 Signs You’re Being Emotionally Drained By Your Partner

1. You can’t stop thinking about your partner

This isn’t the same as that honeymoon stage, where all you want to do is spend time with your significant other. Instead, when you’re unable to function, and these thoughts consume you every waking moment is when the situation gets dire. You may wonder where they are or what they’re doing. Indeed, the answer you know causes you distress and an inability to think about anything else.

While this isn’t necessarily your partner’s fault, it may be a sign that you’re subconsciously unable to trust them.

2. You feel tired all the time

Using up too much emotion uses up our energies. This fatigue isn’t like the one you feel at the end of a hard day because that “kind of exhaustion can be remedied with a couple of nights’ worth of decent sleep,” says art director and herbalist-in-training Catherine Winter.

Giving too much to one person can leave us feeling drained and exhausted, especially when we’re not getting enough back.

Being with your partner shouldn’t leave you feeling like you’ve got all of the energy sucked. When you feel like that, you’re being emotionally drained. It could either be because of them, or you don’t know when to stop giving.

3. You’re eager to spend time alone

A lot of people understand that feeling of enjoying spending time by themselves. However, you may be facing an emotionally draining partner when you feel a sense of relief, euphoria, and excitement knowing that you will be spending some time away from them.

Relationship expert April Masini says, “If you’re all that excited to have a weekend alone, consider that the reason for your joy is that they’re draining you when they’re around. You should be happy to have a break, but not that happy.”

If you’re not missing your partner when they’re gone, it might be a sign you don’t want them around as much as you thought.

4. Your partner does not give you an emotional boost

One of the earliest signs of being in an emotionally draining relationship is whether or not you feel emotionally lifted when your partner is around. “Healthy relationships are supportive. Those in them don’t always agree on plans or next steps, but they hear each other out respectfully,” says psychotherapist and author Abby Rodman.

Therefore, if you feel happy, relaxed, and eager to spend time together, it’s a sign that your partner is doing their job emotionally. On the other hand, if you’re going through the motions and don’t feel much different than tired, this can mean that your partner is more draining than they are uplifting.

5. Your partner asks too much

This may not be your partner’s fault entirely, but rather how much you can emotionally handle. As Salama Marine, psychologist and online dating expert, explains, “It’s not about your partner’s behavior, but more about how you feel about it. Everybody has their limit.”

If you feel like your partner is asking more than you know that you can give when it comes to emotional support, it’s probably a sign that you don’t have enough in you. This can mean that you’re emotionally drained while your partner is emotionally starved. It can be a sign of incompatible partnership rather than deliberate malicious behavior by either partner.

6. You walk on eggshells

Suppose you ever hold your tongue in a conversation rather than share your opinion or let your partner win an argument because you would rather keep your feelings private than risk upsetting them. In that case, this is a red flag to an emotionally draining relationship. That feeling of walking on eggshells won’t just disappear if you ignore it long enough.

“A healthy, non-abusive relationship is built on support, admiration, empathy, balance, and personal responsibility. These elements add to a love built on a respectful mutuality,” adds Rodman.

Therefore, if your partner can’t handle your emotions the way you to handle theirs, it’s an imbalance in the relationship. In fact, that imbalance can cause an emotional drain.

7. Your partner does not meet your needs

You’re doing everything to meet your partner’s emotional needs But you often push aside your own needs–a definite sign of emotional drain. You’ll want to reconsider the relationship if it seems extremely one-sided, and you can’t get them to communicate. It isn’t fair for either partner if they aren’t getting the emotional support they need.

Final thoughts on an emotionally drained partner

Relationships are all about partnership, communication, and compromise. Emotionally draining relationships don’t always have a specific finger to point when it comes to who’s to blame. It can be two partners with incompatible emotional scales and needs or one partner needing more emotional support than their significant other can provide.

Reaching out for a support network for both partners can help balance the emotional labor and keep the relationship balanced and healthy. Other times, the relationship is simply incompatible, and both partners are better off without each other. Whatever the choice, knowing the signs of emotional drain can help both partners make the right decision.

What Causes Chronic Inflammation (And How to Avoid It)

October 11, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Inflammation is a red flag to a variety of diseases, illnesses, and ailments that plague people from all walks of life. Inflammation is the response of a healthy body to cellular damage or a threat to the body. This means that when our bodies are struggling with inflammation, it’s a warning sign of something else. Inflammation isn’t the cause of illnesses or disease; rather, it is our body’s way of telling us that something is wrong or trying to fight back against what is harming it.

Chronic inflammation “occurs when your immune system gets set permanently to “on.” As a result, it constantly releases a flood of damaging chemicals that could sicken your cells. It’s like a forest fire that never goes out,” says naturopathic physician and nutritionist Kellyann Petrucci, ND.

The best way to figure out how to avoid chronic inflammation is to figure out what causes it, and how to avoid the causes of inflammation as best as possible.

Three Major Causes Of Chronic Inflammation And How To Avoid Them

“Lower your body’s burden of toxic chemicals, and you’ll turn down the flame another notch.” – Dr. Kellyann Petrucci

Candida

Candida Albicans are parasites that live inside of our intestinal tract. While the thought of parasites living inside of us seems a little terrifying, these little parasites often hang out with bacteria, creating a balance inside of our bodies. However, imbalance within one’s digestive tract can cause an overgrowth of Candida. When the Candida get out of control, they tend to tear through the intestinal walls and get places in our bodies that they shouldn’t – which, of course, causes our bodies to perceive them as a threat, which causes inflammation correctly.

Candida tends to become overgrown in our bodies when we aren’t getting enough beneficial, healthy bacteria. The best way to avoid an overgrowth of Candida, and thus inflammation, is to ensure you’re keeping your body in balance. Avoiding alcohol can help stop killing off the beneficial bacteria, and avoiding sugars can stop feeding the Candida.

Dr. Carolyn Dean MD ND states, “I have found that reducing sugar intake is one of the most important ways to control hypoglycemia, diabetes, and intestinal yeast.” Other foods that mess with the Candida and bacteria balance in your gut are GMOs, foods covered in pesticides, and refined foods that form acid.

Dr. Amy Myers adds, “I also recommend eliminating all fermented foods. That’s because, while it’s common knowledge that these help to feed the good bacteria, most people don’t realize that bad bacteria feed off of these as well.”

Free Radicals

Free radicals happen naturally in our body. Like many things happening within our bodies, they’re generally good. Free radicals are like particles that move around inside a cell, destroying and burning up anything they come in contact with. Our everyday functions create them, and their role in our body is to ensure that our weakest cells are eliminated so our bodies can make new, healthy cells. Like a feedback loop, inflammation causes our bodies to make free radicals, which cause damage to the cells and cause even more inflammation.

“Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that are missing an electron. This missing electron makes the free radical unstable. They long to be stable again and go crazy inside the body searching for a spare electron to grab on to. As they bounce around your body, they damage surrounding cells. The spare electron is usually stolen from another molecule. That molecule then steals from another. This creates a chain reaction of free radical damage,” explains Dr. Rebecca Gillaspy

A diet change can help reduce the number of free radicals and inflammation in the body. Diets that include food that is high in antioxidants, such as vegetables and certain grains, as well as food that is high in vitamin E and vitamin C. Nuts and seeds can be a great source of vitamin E, and citrus fruits, spinach, and strawberries are a great source of vitamin C. Lowering the number of free radicals in your body can help lower the amount of inflammation.

Nutrient Deficiencies

The British Journal of Nutrition’s study mentions, “There is a substantial amount of evidence to suggest that many foods, nutrients and non-nutrient food components modulate inflammation both acutely and chronically.”

Nutrient deficiency can be a source of inflammation since your body isn’t getting the nutrients it needs. Too much of things your body doesn’t need and too little of what it does can cause your body to flare up in inflammation as a defense. Vitamin D deficiency is known to cause depression, a weakened immune system, autoimmune disease, and inflammation. Vitamin B deficiencies can both cause or be caused by inflammation as well.

Along with changing your diet to get enough vitamin D and vitamin B, taking extra D and B vitamins daily can help boost your immune system and get your vitamin deficiency back on track. Once the vitamin deficiency is under control, the inflammation will also become reduced, leading to relief in those suffering from chronic inflammation due to a lack of important vitamins.

Final thoughts…

Our bodies are pretty delicate mechanisms, but they’re also quite hardy at the same time. Inflammation is our body’s way of telling us that something is wrong, and listening to it is the best way to stop chronic inflammation.

“Inflammation occurs naturally in your body. But when it goes wrong or goes on too long, it can trigger disease processes. However, you can focus on lifestyle choices that reduce your risk of chronic inflammation — the kind that leads to disease,” says Paul DiCorleto, PhD.

Therefore, removing unhealthy foods, adding foods that are good for our bodies, and ensuring that our bodies are getting enough of the vitamins they need will keep inflammation low, and ensure that our bodies only exhibit it when needed.

References:
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-24782/10-signs-you-have-chronic-inflammation.html
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/wc/dr-amy-myers
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2014/10/why-you-should-pay-attention-to-chronic-inflammation/
http://study.com/academy/lesson/inflammation-oxidative-stress-free-radical-damage-to-health.html

5 Behaviors That Show Someone Is Flirting With You, According to Science

October 11, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Is someone flirting with you?

Studying human behavior is a complicated endeavor. It’s tricky because, well, we’re complex.

Many scientists consider the human brain “the most complex structure in the known universe.” Containing billions of cells and an immeasurable number of connections, there’s a reason why it’s taken some of history’s most brilliant minds hundreds of years to explain anything about the 3-pound organ.

We now know that the mind-body connection is a real thing. The interactivity between brain, mind, and body cannot be separated more than a computer’s mouse, keyboard, or monitor. We couldn’t function.

Body Language and Flirting: An Undeniable Connection

What about body language? More specifically, what about nonverbal communication? You’ve probably heard the old axiom “93% of all communication is nonverbal.”

Given what we’ve covered so far about the brain, do you see a potential problem with this number? Trying to measure the immeasurable is pointless. More critically, these percentages are meaningless!

What is essential to understand – and say with certainty – is that most human communication is non-verbal. The Nonverbal Group, an independent academic and research group that focuses on nonverbal communication, says that non-verbal communication, including body language, is the most crucial aspect of communication.

What’s this got to do with flirting? Everything.

If you want to know whether or not someone is attracted to you, understanding the nuances of human behavior – or at least recognizing that they exist – is invaluable.

Here’s an example: a sweet guy or gal often walks by your desk and smiles at you. Does this mean they are attracted? Maybe, or maybe they are just a nice person.

We must investigate. Further, we must understand how the brain and body work together; hence, the quick sociology lesson above!

How many times have you wondered if someone is flirting with you? You catch them looking at you out of the corner of your eye, or they seem to stay close when you’re at a social gathering. Was it just you, or were they subtly trying to get your attention?

It’s common to second guess yourself when it comes to a potential suitor, but if you know what to expect, it’s easy to spot when someone is interested. The last thing you want to do is make a move and find out they’re not interested. So, you need to know how to tell if someone is flirting with you.

Eight Scientific Signs of Flirting

Everyone needs a little help for love and attraction, but did you think science might give you the assistance you need? How many times have you got the courage to make a move on someone, and you fell flat on your face?

Thankfully, there’s a scientific way to tell if someone is into you that can give you the assurance you need. It can help you prevent the sting of rejection or avoid someone with whom you don’t reciprocate their feelings. Here are eight ways to tell if someone is flirting with you, and it’s science.

1. Blushing

Blushing happens quite often for some folks, but there’s science behind this reaction, according to ABC News. When you blush, you’re activating your sympathetic nervous system. There are many reasons why your face can turn red, but anxiety is likely the underlying cause.

Have you ever experienced extreme anxiety, and your face turns red and is hot to the touch? It’s because of the surge of adrenaline that’s released. If someone is embarrassed or feeling the pangs of anxiety, it causes their heart rate to increase. As the heat rises, it causes the blood vessels to dilate, which helps send more oxygen and blood flow to the body.

The facial veins are very susceptible to extra adrenaline. These veins are more vulnerable than others in your body, so you don’t blush all over. When it comes to flirting, it’s only natural for a person to feel a burst of anxiety when experiencing strong feelings.

They can’t help but blush because if they’re trying to get the nerve to come to talk to you or to ask you out, their anxiety is in overdrive. This surge of adrenaline causes the discoloration on their face, and it can indicate that someone is into you. You should note that it can also be caused by makeup, rosacea, social anxiety, and high blood pressure.

2. Feet Placement

The direction of the feet can also be very indicative if someone is flirtatious. Oddly enough, this is something that a person does without even thinking about it. Consequently, their feet will point in your direction if they’re into you.

According to The Telegraph, it’s a subconscious compass that guides them in the direction they desire. Notice your behaviors towards something you want. If you’re in the presence of an attractive person, notice how your feet point.

The next time you want to see if someone is looking in your direction, check their feet. You don’t want to find that their feet are facing toward the door. Sadly, this means they have little to no interest in you.

3. Staring

Staring can be done for many reasons, but they can’t take their eyes off you when someone is into you. It’s also not uncommon for someone to stare if they think your outfit is too loud or your hair is in an odd style, but they will quickly move on to something else. Another interesting fact is that if someone is staring at you because they’re interested, their pupils will dilate.

The next time you catch someone who can’t take their eyes off you, look closely at their pupils. Are their pupils larger and dilated? People who will gaze at you and don’t break their eye contact certainly like what they see.

However, if their eye contact is broken and pupils aren’t dilated, then you need to wait till you see other signs to make a move.

4. Body Language

If a person stands directly in front of you and has their arms crossed, looking at the ground, they’re probably not sending you any flirtatious vibes. You want to see someone with their legs and arms uncrossed, and when they lift their head to look at you, they smile.

According to the National Library of Medicine, when someone wants to engage with you, they will uncross their arms and legs. So, if someone is flirting, their body language will show that they’re open and receptive. If you notice them bring their head up when you look at them and give you a grin, they’re definitely flirting.

5. Rummaging Through Purses or Pockets

You already know that your nerves are in overdrive when you’re strongly attracted to someone. It can cause your face to turn red, but you will also fidget. A woman may go through her purse many times as it’s something to distract and help with her anxiety.

A man may play with his car keys, jingle something in his pockets, or rub his head repeatedly. The difference would be if the woman held her bag close to her, clinching it. That would show closed-off behavior.

When someone is attracted to another person, they don’t want anything to stand in the way, so they will find something to fidget with it to ease their angst. Holding the purse constantly sends a different message than rummaging through it.

6. Voice Tone

Another interesting fact is that a person’s voice is likely to lower when they’re attracted to someone. A woman’s voice may become huskier and more profound as it shows she delves into her loving, sultry, and more passionate side. Men don’t usually experience a drop in their voice, but the same hormones cause their voices to become a higher pitch and softer.

It’s fascinating what this surge of hormones running through your body does to you, but it’s beneficial in determining if someone is into you or not.

7. Mirroring

When someone’s flirting with you, they might mirror your body positions. Why would someone do this? Well, it’s a subconscious thing, and they’re not trying to copy you, but they want to establish rapport.

The suitor may be using it as a test to see if you pick up on their advances. You can also see if someone likes you back before asking them out. It’s very similar to the positioning of the feet and the subconscious cues they show, as there’s something unique about all these extra hormones surging that make you do crazy things.

8. Expressive Behaviors

Expressive behavior is a vast field that can encompass many things, and there are both discreet and untactful ways of using them. When someone engages in flirtatious body language, they may add in suggestive behaviors to let you know they’re interested. This means they’re taking their body language one step further and exposing parts of themselves to you in a subtle manner.

For instance, women often like to show off their vulnerabilities through their necks or arms. It’s also an odd coincidence that this is where most ladies put their perfume. When a person tilts their head, it exposes their pheromones.

A pheromone is simply a chemical that you produce that profoundly affects another person as it changes their behavior. These behavior-altering agents are potent. Have you ever seen a lady take her hair down, toss it around, or play with her locks?

The female is trying to get attention, and their pheromones are in overdrive. A man may take his shirt off to expose his muscles, as their chest is often a sign of pride. You may also notice a guy lifting the sleeve of his arm to display his muscles.

When a person wants you to notice them, and they’ve taken their flirting to the next level, there will be little suggestive behaviors that prove their interest. Unlike some of the other methods listed, this one is hard to deny.

Five Types of Flirting

Here are the five types of flirting (and some potential signs someone is flirting with you)

1. Physical

As the name suggests, physical flirting is all about contact. It’s also the flirting most popular among women. According to Jeffrey Hall, the study’s lead author, they’re the kind most likely to go alone to a bar or club to find a possible mate.

Potential signs: Touching/rubbing the arm, sitting or standing close in proximity, leaning in during a conversation.

2. Playful

Playful flirts see the act of flirting as something of a game, as harmless fun. They throw caution to the wind and just display interest – and often to multiple people. Men and women use playful flirting at about the same rate. Extroverts, understandably, are more comfortable with this “go with the flow” type of approach.

Potential signs: Physical touch, inattentiveness, darting in/out of the conversation.

3. Polite

Polite flirting entails a mix of compliments, niceties, and standoffish behavior. Introverts dominate this group, while it ranks fourth of five among extroverts. Polite teasers also ensure the use of proper manners and decorum. Unless you happen to stoke a polite flirt’s interests or share the polite flirting traits, it’ll probably be an uneventful meetup!

Potential signs: Shyness followed by sudden attentiveness, various social niceties, moving closer as the conversation progresses, and increasing openness in body and conversation.

4. Sincere

Sincere flirts ‘Strongly Agree’ with the statement, “Showing sincere interest is the best way to let someone know you are interested in them.” They take a more low-key approach to flirting than physical and playful teases and are a bit more outgoing in their process than the polite type. If they like you, you’ll know; if they don’t, you’ll know.

Potential signs: Strong eye contact, active listening, sudden playfulness.

5. Traditional

Traditional flirts are the most likely to agree with the statement “Men should make the first move.”

If you’re going on a first date with a traditionalist, you’re probably not going to a hip bar or club. As with the sincere type, traditional flirts believe firmly in getting to know someone and getting to the point.

Potential signs: Serious attitude, good eye contact, “accidental touching,” respect for boundaries

Final Thoughts on Knowing the Signs Someone is Flirting

When you have a crush on someone, it’s normal for you to experience butterflies in your stomach. Your heart will race, and your face will blush. Your body gives subtle clues to let you know that you’re falling hard. When two people start a relationship, many fascinating chemical reactions occur with your hormones and throughout your central nervous system.

Oddly enough, these reactions also occur when two people are trying to make a connection with one another. Isn’t your body fascinating? The little things that happen when someone flirts can be backed by science. Now, armed with knowledge, you will know if someone is interested and whether or not you should make the next move.

In keeping with the theme of the introduction, we’re going to throw some science at you. Scientific evidence, while not infallible, is certainly more trustworthy than the “Oh my…Did you see that?!? She SMILED at me, bro! I’m making my move!”

“Good luck, man!” (You’ll need it.)

Researchers from the University of Kansas found five main types of flirting: physical, playful, polite, sincere, and traditional. Interestingly, there were no significant gender differences in any five types. Women, however, did score higher on all styles besides playful.

Your intuition, understanding of human behavior, and flirting methods – yes, flirting (!) – may help someone find the person of their dreams.

10 Signs Your Partner Is Treating You Like You Truly Deserve

October 11, 2017 by Power of Positivity

Let’s hope your partner is treating you better than you deserve, and at a minimum, they show all of these 10 signs in your relationship.

Here are signs they’re treating you how you deserve:

1. Your partner’s friends know you’re a package deal

Before you met, you each had friends and being included in get-togethers with their friends can be a testing time. Ideally, your partner will make sure that their friends get to meet you in a happy, stress-free atmosphere. Starting things off on the right foot with loved ones means your partner is treating you like you deserve.

2. You are included in future plans

Tomorrow definitely includes you in your partner’s mind, and they show it by involving you in the planning of both little and big daily future events.

3. Trust goes both ways

Your partner demonstrates that they trust you when they are treating you like you deserve. You are able to demonstrate that you trust them as well by not checking up on their actions.

4. Strong communication skills

You feel informed about how your partner feels, their short-term and long-term plans, their special moments that happened in the day and anything else you might want to know.

5. Rarely argues with you

Cooperation is the spirit of working together so both parties feel supported in their needs. If your partner is treating you like you deserve then they are allowing you to express your needs and making sure that they work to meet you at least halfway, rather than explain why they can’t budge.

6. They uplift you rather than bring you down

Everyone hates nagging or criticizing but we are all guilty of doing it anyway. If your partner is treating you like you deserve, rather than nag that you aren’t doing something their way, they accept that your way of doing things is just fine. In fact, they had never noticed how efficiently you fold a t-shirt and they vow to start doing it your way from now on.

7. Your partner shares

Sharing feelings, their favorite stories, and even their stuff is what your partner does well when they are treating you like you deserve. Sharing is caring, after all.

8. They don’t play favorites

Researchers studying fairness found that equal love, care and support to all members of the family without favoritism and equal treatment were important to how people define fairness in their close relationships.

In partnerships, the researchers say “fairness includes morality and standard of the inner state, also it involves decision making. It includes being equal regardless of socioeconomic status, respect each other and recognizing the rights of individual.” Both men and women in the study agreed that fairness is getting what you deserve and also giving equal consideration to others.

9. Your partner apologizes

Research on forgiveness found that relationship closeness was a predictor of the frequency of apologies. In the study, women were more likely than men to demand an apology. Researchers found that the partner who focused on repairing the relationship versus avoiding blame was more likely to apologize to attempt to regain trust. Apologies seemed to help with forgiveness and how much empathy was used impacted the effectiveness of the apologies. The study also found that the ‘victim’ who wanted an apology wanted to feel assured that the wrongful behavior will not occur again in the future.

10. Loves even the parts of you that you don’t like

Your partner is accepting of the parts of your personality that even you are not so fond of. Those things that you’re working to improve are accepted with love by a partner who treats you like you deserve.

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

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!