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8 Warning Signs of Anemia

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“One of the dilemmas with anemia is that the symptoms are pretty ubiquitous: tiredness, weakness, some difficulty in thinking clearly. They’re all kind of vague.” – Dr. Allen Nissenson

Not many people know the warning signs of anemia, despite the fact that iron-deficiency anemia is one of the most common forms of the subtle and quiet disease. Your body needs iron, and it is essential to the making of healthy red blood cells. Without iron, your body has trouble making the blood cells – which means that loss of blood from a cut or a woman’s menstrual cycle can cause complications.

Not to mention, being anemic in and of itself, even without blood loss, can cause trouble in one’s day-to-day lives. “Bleeding is one of the most prominent causes of iron deficiency, because when you bleed you lose red blood cells that contain iron,” says professor of medicine Dr. Allen Nissenson.

Therefore, knowing the signs of anemia can put everyone ahead of the curve and make sure that getting the proper diagnosis and treatment early on will prevent any complications.

Here Are Eight Warning Signs Of Anemia

Watch for these red flags and seek a doctor’s help right away.

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1. Fatigue

According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, “The most common symptom of all types of anemia is fatigue (tiredness). Fatigue occurs because your body doesn’t have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen to its many parts.”

A lot of people feel fatigue for a number of reasons: stress, sickness, other illnesses. But the fatigue that people who are anemic feel is much different than the fatigue one might feel after a restless night’s sleep. People who are anemic often report feeling exhausted 24/7. If the tired, sluggish feeling is affecting your quality of life, anemia might be the culprit, and a doctor’s visit is in order.

2. Pale membranes

The mucous membranes over your eyes are a great indicator of whether or not someone is suffering from anemia. To locate it, look for the waterline that’s above your lower lash line. This is an area that’s full of veins, and should be pumping healthy blood through them. If the waterline beneath your lower lashes looks extremely pale, this could be a sign you’re not getting enough blood – thus, anemia.

3. Trouble catching your breath

“Most people with anemia are comfortable sitting still. However, they often feel dyspnea during physical activity because the blood cannot deliver the increased oxygen the body requires. Thus, they breathe rapidly and deeply in a reflex effort to try to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood,” says Associate Professor of Medicine and Director Noah Lechtzin, MD, MHS.

Therefore, if a short climb up the stairs winds you, or if you feel like you just can’t catch your breath after a brief exercise, this is a sign that your body isn’t getting the oxygen that it needs through healthy red blood cells. Along with this, dizziness and feeling light-headed are also signs that your body isn’t getting enough oxygen through your blood cells.

4. Anxiety

If you already suffer from an anxiety disorder, it may be hard to pinpoint exactly whether or not this applies to you. However, if you’ve recently developed anxiety symptoms such as a racing heart, anemia may be the culprit. The reason being, is that your blood is pumping harder and faster, trying to get more oxygen. The feeling that results is one of a racing heart – anxious feelings with no anxious thoughts.

5. Going numb

Your body needs to ration where the blood goes, and the organs are the most important parts of your body. So, in a shortage of healthy blood to use, your body may start using the blood that goes to your arms, hands, legs and feet in order to keep a strong supply of blood in other parts of your body. This means that you’re likely to experience some numbness in your extremities.

6. Headaches

Everyone gets headaches every once in a while, so a headache by itself doesn’t often point to anemia. However, if other symptoms on the list are checked off, and you’re also experiencing frequent headaches without any relief from pain relievers, you might want to visit your doctor and get tested for anemia. Headaches, coupled with other symptoms, can be a sign that your body isn’t getting enough oxygen and blood in the places it needs to go.

7. Heavy or irregular periods

In women, anemia can be caused by uterine fibroids, which are located inside of the uterine cavity. These fibroids are often the cause of extremely painful, heavy periods. Women who have noticed an irregularity in their periods, as well as heavier than usual bleeding and painful cramps, should talk to their doctor. The culprit just may be iron-deficient anemia.

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8. Trouble concentrating

Some people refer to this as ‘brain fog’, because it may feel like there’s a veil of fog cast over all of your thoughts. Not only this, but people who feel like they have sudden trouble keeping their thoughts straight, concentrating, and remembering things may experience this because “Low iron levels can have an impact on work performance, judgment and the ability to focus,” says registered dietitian and certified diabetes educator, Maria Ricupero.

Final thoughts…

Without knowing the reason, many of these symptoms can be troubling, or simply brushed off as something else. Anemia affects hundreds of thousands of people, and is more common that one might think. Once all the signs are there, the rest is up to you – getting yourself to a doctor if you suspect that you might be suffering from anemia will ensure that you get the proper tests and the right diagnosis, so you can get back on the track of good health.

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved
References:
http://www.nytimes.com/ref/health/healthguide/esn-anemia-expert.html?mcubz=1
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/ida/signs
http://www.msdmanuals.com/home/lung-and-airway-disorders/symptoms-of-lung-disorders/shortness-of-breath
https://beta.theglobeandmail.com/life/health-and-fitness/health-advisor/tired-headaches-iron-deficiency-could-be-to-blame/article23424063/?ref=http://www.theglobeandmail.com&

Easy Ways To Soothe An Upset Stomach Naturally

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Upset stomachs are often just a fact of life. The way we treat them, however, can vary. Instead of immediately seeking medication to treat your upset stomach, try looking into some natural, home remedies. Some medications can simply make an upset stomach worse, have side-effects, or merely mask the symptoms without addressing the root cause.

Natural remedies are more cost-efficient while being easier on your stomach and more likely to address the cause of the upset. So, whether you’re constipated, nauseous, or simply have an upset stomach, check out these home remedies to make your stomach feel better.

Here Are 6 Effective Home Remedies To Help Soothe An Upset Stomach

“Everything we need to “cure” ourselves from sickness and disease has already been given to us. And it was all put here long before we arrived.” – Troy Sawyer

1. Carrot and Mint Juice

If you’ve got a flu, carrot and mint juice can help soothe your upset stomach. The carrots will provide all the nourishment you need, while the peppermint will soothe your stomach. Soften the carrots in boiling water with one teaspoon of dried peppermint. Then, blend the mix together and enjoy! If the peppermint isn’t enough to help settle your stomach, try to add a pinch of ground ginger.

2. Rice tea

If you’ve got an upset stomach or are experiencing diarrhea, some rice tea should help settle your stomach. All you have to do is boil half a cup of rice in six cups of water for around 15 minutes. Then, simply strain out the rice from the water. You can add honey or sugar if you’re not keen on the flavor of simple rice water. Make sure to drink your “tea” while it’s still warm for the best effect in settling your stomach!

3. Burnt toast

This one might be a little strange, but it’s a tried and true method of settling an upset stomach! Toast is already an excellent way to help an unsettled stomach, so if you can’t handle the burnt taste, toast will already help you. According to Live Strong, “The carbon in the charred bread absorbs impurities and toxins, and it acts like a filter to prevent some compounds and microorganisms from passing through the mucus membrane of the gut.” Try adding some jelly to help it go down for a better taste.

4. Apple cider vinegar

Most people already know the real joys of apple cider vinegar when it comes to getting rid of unwanted pests in the home, as well as getting rid of a particularly sore throat. But it’s also good for the upset stomach. Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a cup of warm water and a tablespoon of honey. Drinking this mixture will help ease cramping and gas and soothe indigestion.

5. Go for Yogurt

According to author Lauren Brown West-Rosenthal, Yogurt “that is labeled as having “active cultures” increase the number of good bacteria in your gut. This will help with digestion and get rid of that bloated, uncomfortable feeling in your stomach that makes you feel like you can’t even get up off the coach.”

Probiotics in yogurt make it an excellent choice for soothing an upset stomach. Yogurt can help ease digestive issues and give your immune system a boost if you’re sick with the stomach flu. However, make sure you’re not choosing sugary yogurt with added flavors for best results. Non-fat, plain yogurt is the best choice for settling an upset stomach.

6. Heat packs

Ladies know all about the magic of heat to help ease monthly cramps. As it turns out, heat can also be extremely helpful when it comes to settling an upset stomach. Place a hot water bottle or heating pad over your stomach. This will help increase blood flow which can sometimes alleviate the upset in your stomach altogether. If not, it will at least help soothe the pain that you feel associated with your upset stomach. Heating pads can be made at home with an old sock or pillowcase and some rice. Simply tie off the fabric after filling it with rice, place it into the microwave, and let it heat up for about 10 to 15 seconds.

take care of yourself quote

There you have it! Easy and natural ways to soothe the woes of an upset stomach. This is perfect for those of us who would like natural, home remedies to soothe an upset stomach without relying on medication, or simply can’t afford a trip to the doctor. These are also great for parents of children who prefer natural remedies as opposed to medication to deal with the many flus and sicknesses that come with childhood.

References:
http://www.rd.com/health/conditions/9-natural-upset-stomach-remedies/1/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/554851-burnt-toast-tea-for-vomiting/
http://www.eatthis.com/stomach-ache-cures

Researchers Explain How Your Gut Bacteria Causes Anxiety, According to Science

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Anxiety is a big problem.

Researchers estimate that over 40 million adults in the United States suffer from an anxiety disorder. This number is equivalent to 18 out of every 100 Americans. In just over 20 years, anxiety disorders have increased by over 67 percent.

Per the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), anxiety disorders “are the most common mental illness in the United States.” Sadly, only about 37 percent of those with an anxiety disorder receive proper treatment.

“Previous research has demonstrated that some manipulation of the balance of bacteria in the gut can impact anxiety-like behaviors, but this study is the first that links that balance to (the brain.)” ~ Abigail Miller

What is an “anxiety disorder”?

“Anxiety disorder” is an umbrella term comprised of one of the following conditions: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder (PD) Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), Specific Phobias, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Besides the harmful impact on a person’s life, anxiety (which often accompanies depression) costs the U.S. economy (e.g., health care costs and insurance hikes) over $40 billion a year.

What does the gut have to do with anxiety?

It’s a common misconception that all mental health disorders stem from chemical imbalances within the brain. Certainly, neurochemical activity in the brain plays a significant role in many – but not all – cases of mental illness.

An article published by Harvard Medical School (HMS), titled “The gut-brain connection,” explains this delicate relationship. Here are highlights of the HMS article:

– The gut can send signals to the brain, and the brain to the gut.

– Stomach or intestinal distress can interfere with gut-brain and brain-gut neuronal transmission (“signaling”).

– However, if signal interference is severe, stomach or intestinal stress can “be the cause or the product” of anxiety, depression, or stress.

Our “Second brain” and the connection to anxiety

If you thought our brain and body was complex before, wait until you read this!

Did you know that over 90 percent of serotonin – the neurochemical responsible for a stable mood – is produced in the gut?

The gut also has a network of neurons –specialized cells responsible for transmitting nerve impulses. This complex network allows the gut to interact with the central nervous system (CNS) – namely, the brain – and vice-versa.

Most interactions take place along the gut-brain axis. Scientists have taken it upon themselves to call this communication center the “gut-brain” axis.

The gut-brain axis and mental health

Our gastrointestinal (GI) tract is home to billions of healthy bacteria called gut flora. In fact, this bacterial community normalizes many functions within the gut, including digestion, vitamin and mineral synthesis and absorption, and the inflammatory response.

The gut-brain axis is the focal point of many mental and physical health studies.

What scientists have discovered about your gut and anxiety

Indeed, scientists today are keenly aware of the gut-brain connection. However, researchers have recently found that gut bacteria significantly impacts mental health.

For example, researchers at the University of Cork (Ireland) made a groundbreaking discovery. Gene regulators, which encode proteins, play a fundamental role in anxiety illnesses. Furthermore, they are impacted by bacterial levels in the gut.

What does this mean for my anxiety?

To avoid turning this article into something you’d read in some neuroscience textbook, here is the study’s “CliffsNotes”:

– The study is one in a growing body of research that links gut bacteria and mental health.

– One gene regulator, called the microRNA (miRNA), caused high anxiety in mice lacking the proper gut bacteria.

– Injecting miRNA into mice eased previous anxiety symptoms.

– Findings suggest that a healthy balance of gut bacteria is necessary for appropriate regulation of miRNA.

– As a result, miRNA may directly affect anxiety levels in humans.

– The study could lead to the manufacture of treatments that target the gut more specifically than the brain.

Treatment implications

The University of Cork study is the first of its kind to associate microbial balance within the gut to specific areas of the brain.

Dr. Gerald Clark, the lead author of the study, explains:

“This (study) is important because these miRNAs may affect (processes) fundamental to the central nervous system and in brain regions, such as the amygdala and prefrontal cortex (PFC).”

The amygdala (um-ig-duh-luh) is a primitive, tiny walnut-shaped area of the brain thought to be responsible for emotions. The PFC is our brain’s “executive region,” responsible for several important functions (planning, decision-making, social behavior, etc.)

Should scientists successfully replicate these findings, it could make a world of difference for people suffering from anxiety. So if there’s even a chance of better treating such a widespread and life-changing mental disorder, God Speed.

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

Why You Should Put A Lemon Next to Your Bed Every Night, According to Science

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It’s quite amazing how many uses there are for foods – especially fruits and vegetables – besides eating them. The uses for lemon are no exception. (Citrus fruits are probably the most cited of all foods regarding alternative uses.) Whether it’s part of a cleaning solution, homemade beauty product, or toothpaste, lemon is one of the most versatile fruits out there.

In this article, we’re going to discuss the benefits of placing a lemon next to your bed. We’ll also talk about how to cut your lemon so you can get the best use out of it.

Let’s get started!

First, lemons pack an incredible amount of nutrients; this gives the fruit its wonderful health benefits. Combine the high concentration of nutrients with the benefits of aromatherapy, and it’s a no-brainer!

Here are some health benefits of placing a lemon next to your bed:

lemon

1. Better breathing

Lemon is loaded with antioxidants and anti-bacterial properties. These properties may help explain why the fruit appears to help people breathe easier.

Individuals with asthma or who are stricken with a cold may find that keeping a lemon next to the bed opens up their lung pathways. While much of the scientific evidence on this effect is anecdotal, it makes sense from an elemental standpoint.

2. Improving air quality

All you probably know, lemon gives off a powerful aroma, so the area around your bed is probably going to smell a bit more pleasant.

What many people don’t know is that lemon may indeed improve air quality. This characteristic is attributed to the lemon’s detoxification properties.

3. Pain relief

Midwives and obstetricians sometimes use essential oils for pain relief during childbirth. Furthermore, the University of Maryland Medical Center, citing one study, states “pregnant women felt less anxiety and fear, had a stronger sense of well-being, and had less need for pain medications during delivery.”

Additional studies found that people with cancer, headaches, and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) require fewer pain medications when using aromatherapy.

4. Stress relief

Aromatherapists have labeled lemon as a “stress-buster” (well, not those exact words) for thousands of years – and for a good reason.

Lemons are known to aid in serotonin production. Serotonin is the brain’s “happy” chemical; in fact, most prescription anti-depressants target serotonin receptors. Additionally, serotonin is responsible for regulating anxiety and mood – and it may help in this regard.

5. Reducing blood pressure

Lemon balm, an essential oil, is known for increasing blood circulation and lowering blood pressure. While a natural lemon is not an essential oil, it makes sense that some of the effects would carry over.

As with better breathing and improved air quality, much of the science on this is anecdotal and requires more study. However, given how we’re inundated with BP prescription drugs, it certainly doesn’t hurt to give this a try.

6. Repelling insects

Insects – especially ants and mosquitoes – hate the smell.

While the passage specifically mentions peels, an open lemon exposes the pests to citrus which is the primary objective.

How to Cut a Lemon

If you’re a chef or cook, you can probably skip this rudimentary “lemon-cutting” lesson! Anyways, for the rest of us, here’s how to cut a “standing” correctly.

First, grab a small plate or cutting board.

Second, hold it lengthwise (top-down) in your non-cutting hand.

Third, cut about three-quarters of the way down the center. Rotate the fruit ninty degrees and repeat. (Please be careful not to cut yourself.)

If it doesn’t stand (which it probably won’t), cut off enough of the opposite end so that it stays flat.

Researchers Explain 5 Reasons to Have Your Parents Watch Your Kids More Often

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“There is a link between providing (grandchild) care and reducing stress; and we know the relationship between stress and higher risk of dying.”  ~ Dr. Ronan Factora, Geriatric Medicine specialist at the Cleveland Clinic

Do grandchildren love their grandparents? Absolutely!

Did you know that having them watch your kids benefits the health of both? In fact, according to a study published in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior, “grandparents who watch their grandchildren live significantly longer lives.”

Researchers used a meta-analysis of 20 years worth of data from The Berlin Aging Study, one of the largest studies of older adults aged 7o to 100 years. The team discovered that “Grandparents who provided some form of care to their grandchildren” had a 37 percent lower risk of passing away.

Let’s use a typical 70-year old healthy grandmother to demonstrate the study’s potential significance. Per the literature, having your lovely mother watch your little darlings may add a decade-plus to her life while improving her overall health.

Amazing.

Health researchers believe this effect may be due to the documented health benefits of grandparent-grandchild relationships.

Here are a few such benefits:

1. Sharpens their cognitive skills 

Brain health is especially important for older adults.

Australian researchers studied 120 grandmothers. They found that those who spent at least one day per week watching their grandchildren scored higher on memory and other cognitive tests.

“Interaction with other people could cause stimulation of certain nerve pathways that are beneficial to our brain,” says Sharon Brangman, a member of the Health and Aging Foundations at the American Geriatrics Society.

Dr. Brangman notes that stress affects brain health and function, and grandparents who spend a little extra time with their grandkids may benefit from reduced stress. This, in turn, results in higher cognitive function.

2. Lowers risk of depression

According to researchers at Boston University, a healthy grandparent-grandchild relationship may reduce the risk of depression for both grandparent and child.

In the study of 376 grandparents and 340 grandchildren, emotional bonds and mutual sharing of experiences helped contribute to positive psychological effects, including fewer symptoms of depression.

3. Strengthens the immune system 

Geriatricians state that intimate touch between a grandparent and grandchild “gives a sense of calmness, peacefulness, and security if you’re under stress.” Mental well-being significantly reduces stress levels and contributes to strengthening and maintaining immune system health and function.

Dr. Christine Arthur, an internist at Orange Coast Memorial Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California, cites another physiological response:

“When people are exposed to more touch, they often have a decrease in inflammatory cells and an increase in white blood cells, the fighter cells.”

Touch between grandparent and grandchild may also reduce pain and lower blood pressure.

4. Boosts physical activity 

In a 2011 American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) report, nearly 60 percent of grandparents reported participating in physical activities with their grandchildren. Respondents cited engaging in gardening, exercising, and even playing sports with their grandkids!

Dr. Arthur states that grandparents who are actively engaged in the lives of their grandchildren possess more reason to get up, get dressed, walk somewhere and be physically active.

“One of the biggest things I tell older adults is never to stop moving, even if it’s a small activity.”

5. A renewed sense of purpose

Unfortunately, aging may steal some older adults’ zest for life. They’re more likely to be sedentary and tired mentally and physically. Isolation from family and friends may compound the issue. This is particularly the case if the grandparent has a physical handicap limiting their ability to get out and about.

This is one reason their grandchildren (and you!) need to visit them once in a while. “Grandchildren counteract social isolation and loneliness. They give (the grandparent) a sense of belonging and responsibility,” says Dr. Walter Nieri, a geriatrician in Sun City, Arizona.

Anyone who’s fortunate enough to have a loving grandparent in their life can tell you just how much they value this relationship. Grandparents truly have a special place in many people’s hearts.

And another thing: the grandchildren benefit just as much as the grandparent! Grandparents are not only loving, but they’re also full of knowledge and wisdom.

So, if you have a grandparent in your life, take a day out of your week to visit them. If nothing else, give them a call. They’d love to see or hear from you and your kids!

5 Depression Management Tricks That Make You Happy Again

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If you struggle to manage your depression symptoms, the feelings you have are not your fault. In many cases, the issue is not with the diagnosis–it’s with the treatment. So together, we will look at the primary causes of this mental illness and also review some self-care strategies shared by others who successfully manage their symptoms.

But first, you should also know that you are not alone in feeling depressed. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) advises that over 264 million people around the globe also battle this silent illness.

What Causes Depression?

An article published by Harvard Medical School explains that many factors can underly depression.  At its core is a chemical imbalance. But the tricky part is determining which chemicals could be too high or too low.

Additionally, many other things can cause depression, including these, according to the same Harvard article:

  • Medical conditions that negatively impact the brain: Heart disease, stroke, cancer, lupus, and nutritional deficiencies may cause you to feel depressed.
  • Stressful events: Physical or emotional threats cause your fight-or-flight response to kick in, spiking your cortisol levels.
  • Emotional trauma: Early loss of a parent, sexual abuse, childhood trauma
  • Genetics: Your genes are the blueprint to your body, passed down to you by your parents. You might be more vulnerable to some mental illnesses if a parent also has one.

These make it difficult for doctors to pinpoint the exact cause of those chemical or hormonal fluctuations. They also note that the wide array of underlying causes means that treatment looks very different for every patient they treat.

Sometimes, constructing a treatment plan that works specifically for you boils down to finding what makes you feel better.

depressionFive Ways to Treat Your Depression Symptoms

Is there a better way to overcome those “lows” that you feel from day to day? Here are the tips that Quora members share when they need to boost their moods. Please note: These are anecdotal accounts by online forum users. You should always check with a doctor for a diagnosis before treating yourself.

1. Dance 

That’s right. Shake a leg. Boogie. Do the twist. You get the idea. Here’s what one young man had to say about how dancing helped him:

“If ever in the life you danced like a drunk, you will come to know that dance is the best mental exercise.” And this young man may be onto something.

An article published in Psych Central confirms that dance can be an excellent tool for managing those familiar, uncomfortable symptoms. The paper notes that dancing might help boost both of the following chemical reactions in your body:

  • Endorphins, which increase feelings of pleasure and help you manage stress.
  • Dopamine, which sends messages to the “reward center” of your brain.

The author, Abigail Keyes, M.A., explains why dancing can help you feel happier:

“Aerobic exercise elevates levels of both dopamine (the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward) and euphoria-inducing endorphins.”

The author notes that as you master those new moves, you will also feel optimistic about the strides you make. The feeling of pride in mastery of technique also helps to stimulate dopamine. Thus, you will feel encouraged to continue.

2. Do a workout

Once again, a Quora user has great insight into overcoming depressed feelings: 

“Workout (is) the best way to release anger. The more angry you are, (the greater) will be your workout. And once you are done with you workout your anger will be gone and you will be more relaxed. If you talk about depression, it will motivate (you) to (go) workout.”

Like dance, aerobic exercise benefits the brain in several ways.

First, exercise stimulates the heart, which in turn releases more blood. Blood flow is an important element of cognitive health because it delivers oxygen to your brain cells.

Second, exercise releases endorphins which are potent anti-stress hormones. Third, exercise (especially of the aerobic variety) enhances neurogenesis – or the growth of new brain cells.

Dr. Michel Craig Miller, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, agrees! In a 2021 article, he says:

“For some people, it [exercise] works as well as antidepressants, although exercise alone isn’t enough for someone with severe depression.”

rising early3. Travel

Travel can be a bit difficult due to time constraints. One way around this limitation is to rethink what it is to “travel.” We needn’t take a flight to somewhere, book an expensive hotel, or arrange transport. Simply getting away from it all is good enough.

“The other way to get rid of (depression) is to travel alone. Plan a trip to any hill station ( a town in the low mountains of the Indian subcontinent) … When you come back from the trip you will find your mind healthy.”

You probably don’t live in India as this young man does, but you get the idea. There’s a beautiful and peaceful place not too far from you. Will you go?

Researchers find that travel, in and of itself, does not impact depression, specifically. However, an assistant professor of psychology at New York University’s Department of Psychology says that exploring new environments studied how new activities help to stimulate the brain. She concluded the following:

“Our results suggest that people feel happier when they have more variety in their daily routines—when they go to novel places and have a wider array of experiences.”

And an abstract published in Nature notes that “daily variability in physical location was associated with increased positive affect in humans.”

These sound promising. So if traveling to a new place helps uplift you, then you could at least give it a try.

4. Lifestyle Changes 

A former competitive runner offers these tips on Quora:

  • “Vitamin therapy in which large doses of vitamin B is ingested regularly under the supervision of a doctor.”
  • “Fairly vigorous exercise has been shown to release the same neurotransmitters as antidepressant medications.”
  • “Reducing sugar intake and eating less processed foods including gluten.”
  • “Meditation and deep breathing exercises.”

Finally, this Quora user shared another piece of valuable advice:

“Claims of depression cures are often used to see products that may be useless or only work for those who believe (because) a television personality or celebrity doctor says so.”

Remember earlier how we advised you to check with your physician before you treat your symptoms? The same advice goes for listening to influencers or on-air personalities. Your family doctor knows your medical needs best and will serve as your best resource.

5. Ask Yourself: What makes YOU feel happy again?

Once again, please understand that depression is a neurochemical imbalance that requires patience, diligence, and possibly medical intervention to overcome.

It’s a tough illness to deal with at times, and many people do so in their own way.

But perhaps happiness can be found in some other places, as well.

The warm-hearted answer from the same young man mentioned prior deserves some page space! Here are, once again, some of his suggestions:

  • “Find a room alone and a mirror. Stand in the of the mirror, (stick) your tongue out and start jumping. Your mood will be light soon.”
  • “The other way (is) to hangout with (friends). These are the ways that will help you with the depression.”

Gotta love the enthusiasm! And if you cracked a smile reading his answer, we’re heading in the right direction. But his light-hearted comments appear to be on the right track. Science does concur that laughter is, indeed, a good medicine because it boosts serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.

depressionFinal Thoughts on Learning to Manage Your Depression

Managing the symptoms of depression can be an ongoing, lifelong challenge for some people.  No two people experience this mental illness in the same way, so crafting a self-care plan to treat those symptoms takes effort. You will learn through trying these strategies which work best for you!

Finally, remember that your primary care doctor is your partner in your health. Check in for their professional advice before you start self-treatment to ensure the correct diagnosis. You got this!

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

5 Things to Never Tell A Special Needs Parent

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Parenting is already a stressful and tiring endeavor. Caring for a special needs child, as one mother puts it, “takes things to another level of fatigue.” She cites an ever-present tiredness of both body and mind; juggling doctor’s visits and paying bills, and always having to “navigate” things that some parents take for granted, such as the bureaucracy that is the public school system.

Many of these mothers and fathers also work, have other children, and also face the myriad responsibilities of life. Whenever and wherever they may find some reprieve is most welcome.

Including in day-to-day interactions.

Most of us will never have a full understanding of what it’s like to care for someone with special needs. Something that all of us can do is monitor what we say to those caregivers.

With that said, here are five things to never say to a special needs parent; followed by a few ideas of what to say instead!

5 Things to Never Say To A Special Needs Parent

In 2014–15, the number of children and youth ages 3–21 receiving special education services was 6.6 million, or 13 percent of all public school students. Among children and youth receiving special education services, 35 percent had specific learning disabilities. ~ The National Center for Education Statistics

1. (Insert religious comment here)

A “God bless” is nice, but we should watch what we say about God and their child.

Too often, many of these comments resemble comments like “God gave you this special kid,” “God will give you the strength,” or “God won’t give you more than you can handle.”

These are all nice and well-meaning words, but please consider the following:

– We don’t know the person’s religious or spiritual beliefs, if any.

– Parents may interpret such comments as pity, which isn’t desirable.

– The odds are that they’ve already contemplated the “why?” of their situation, including anything related to God.

– If the parent desires spiritual counsel, they’ll make their request known.

2. “She looks normal.”

Again, a well-intended statement, but nonetheless unwise.

One mother, a diversity and inclusion advocate, was told: “She doesn’t look like she has special needs.” Such a statement is interpreted as ignorant at best, and utterly disrespectful at worst.

18.5% of American children under the age of 18 are considered Special Needs Children. Each child falls into one of four categories of special needs: behavioral/emotional, developmental, physical, and sensory impaired.

Most special needs children do not display any physical abnormality. Regardless, it’s inappropriate to mention anything related to the child’s appearance.

3. “He should be able to…” 

This phrase should be spoken by one of two people: the parent and the child’s doctor or therapist.

Most special needs involve a cognitive deficit. The human brain, as we all know, is an incredibly complex organ. In fact, neuroscientists are often perplexed about its function or lack thereof.

One mother of a child with sensory processing disorder (SPD), a condition wherein “the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses,” shares her experience:

“I wish people, especially other parents, would stop assuming my son is just having a tantrum … or that I don’t care about his appearance. Something as basic as having his head touched feels like torture to him, so his hair often goes unbrushed.”

In short, unless we’re an expert on a particular disability, we aren’t in any position to articulate what the child should or shouldn’t do.

4. “I’m sorry.”

“I would instantly go into Mama bear protective mode.” says one mother of a child with Down syndrome.

You may be noticing a trend at this point. All of these comments, while seemingly thoughtful, are not received well by the child’s parents.

The words “I’m sorry,” in most circumstances, is said with sympathy and kindness. However, the tonality of this phrase, when directed towards a special needs parent, is generally one of pity.

As mentioned, special needs parents do not want pity.

The parent is intimately familiar with their circumstances. Most parents, after a period of time, accept their situation – and do what they can to make the best of it.

5. “He’s so smart.” 

Assuming that a disability limits the child’s “intelligence,” however one may define the word, is to assume incorrectly. (Why would we assume in the first place?)

Complimenting a parent on a child’s intelligence is a very nice gesture … under most conditions. But again, this is not a typical situation. The fact is that special needs children are in the minority, and thus many words and behaviors from the majority are not phrased correctly.

What to say instead

Special needs parents face many challenges, and many parents do appreciate the encouragement. Here are a few ideas.

– “Is he enjoying school?”

– “What is her favorite subject?”

– “Is there something that I can do to help?”

– “I’d like to know more about the condition. May I ask you?”

– “How is your child progressing?”

Any type of question that demonstrates compassion, respect, and interest is generally well-received by special needs parents! 

Sources
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/m-lin/special-needs-parenting_b_1314348.html
http://www.masters-in-special-education.com/special-needs/
http://www.webmd.com/children/sensory-processing-disorder
https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator_cgg.asp
https://www.rd.com/advice/parenting/special-needs-parent

11 Signs You’re About to Experience A Breakthrough

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Are you on the verge of a breakthrough that could change your life?

“For a seed to achieve its greatest expression, it must come completely undone. The shell cracks, its insides come out and everything changes. To someone who doesn’t understand growth, it would look like complete destruction.” ~ Cynthia Occelli

Expanding upon the quote above from a wise woman, cracks in our souls and hearts allow light in. Without being broken first, we would have no idea how to feel joy, because we would have never experienced anything else. In life, it takes experiencing duality to really appreciate the good things on this Earth and within our hearts.

You may have gotten to a point where you no longer feel content with yourself, your surroundings, or your own beliefs. You feel something burning deep within your soul. But you can’t quite put your finger on it. You have a deep longing to understand life on a bigger scale, and move beyond just trying to survive. In other words, you want meaning, feeling, and purpose instead of all the materialism, greed, violence, and other forms of dis-ease we currently experience.

If you feel yourself about to go through a big transformation in life, listen to your gut, because your world might just turn upside-down right before you (in a good way, of course). Read on to see if you can relate to any of these “symptoms.”

11 Signs You May Be on the Verge of a Breakthrough

Do you see these signs of a breakthrough in your life?

1. You feel out of touch with this current reality.

None of the things happening on this planet make much sense to you anymore. In fact, you might feel disassociated and apathetic about the whole thing, and don’t know where to turn or what to think anymore. You might feel strangely like a spectator just watching the world pass you by without having the urge to participate. Don’t worry; this is entirely normal if you’re about to experience a breakthrough.

All this means is that you have recognized the many flaws in our lives and don’t want to take part in it anymore. Of course, the next step down the line is figuring out how you can still be in this world without being “of” it. That will come in time, but don’t ignore your gut feelings for now.

2. You want to give your body healthier foods.

You no longer wish to participate in the vicious cycle of eating junk food, getting sick, going to the doctor, and just getting sicker in the end. You’ve realized that this is just a mass corporate scheme to control others and line people’s pockets rather than take care of the people. You want no part in what should be a criminal act, and wish instead to avoid all the madness of “sickcare” and instead use medicine from the Earth to facilitate real health. After all, Hippocrates said it best: “Let thy food be thy medicine.” 

You have decided to thoroughly embrace this idea and take your health back into your own hands. You realize that you only get one body in this life, so it only makes sense to treat it like a temple!

3. You feel a sense of sadness and despair.

Many people think of an awakening or shift as an immediate removal of all the mental and physical weight we carry around with us daily. However, quite the opposite occurs: we must go through a period of releasing that weight rather than just dropping it all at once, because we have to actually allow ourselves to feel in the first place. Many of us have been repressing and bottling up emotions, or masking them with various substances. When you begin to have a breakthrough, you have to get through all of those heavy emotions by releasing them. Then, you’ll start to see the light at the end of the tunnel.

If you’ve started feeling more heavy emotions lately, you might be experiencing a personal breakthrough.

4. You have a deep desire to be alone.

Though you might love people, you simply don’t want to spend too much time around them. You want to spend all your time and energy trying to heal yourself from deep karmic wounds and get to know the “real” you, the one that’s been buried under society’s conditioning for so long. Being alone doesn’t have to mean loneliness; it actually can allow you to make a friend – yourself. Spending a lot of time in crowds just drains your energy, and you really don’t miss being around people all that much. Getting to know your soul is a very gradual, time-consuming process that requires solitude and deep introspection, and you welcome this opportunity with open arms.

alone

5. The walls between you and everything else seem to break down.

You may also start to feel a sense of Oneness with others even though you aren’t around them as much. You’ve started to see beyond the veil and know that we’re all connected at our core, though society likes to divide us so that some people can continue to control us. However, you see through this evil endeavor and know that the only way we can unite, is to come together in love and compassion for one another, and truly learn to love ourselves as well. You know that we all came from the same source, so there is no “us” and “them,” no “you” and “I.” There is only we, and all beings are beautifully connected in this intricate web of energy.

6. You no longer want to identify with your Ego.

Our egos love to label us, put us in boxes, make us fear rejection, cause us to compete and take more than what we need, and keep us locked in a cage. Our ego serves only to keep us alive and give us an identity, but many of us have abused our egos. We identify too much with them, allowing them to overtake our lives and ultimately destroy our planet. 

You only want to embody love, and have realized how much your ego weighs on your soul. To gain true freedom, you wish to go beyond the ego and find your soul, and this is a huge sign of a breakthrough.

7. You’ve become painfully aware of the fleeting nature of life.

You may feel as though time is moving faster, and you’re going nowhere. You feel yourself slowing down despite the world spinning faster around you, and paying more attention to your surroundings. As a result, you start to find bliss in appreciating the small things, and staying locked into the present moment. You’ve realized true peace in remaining the in now, and not worrying your mind with the doubts of the past and future.

You know that your life won’t last forever, so you’ve vowed to make yours count rather than waste it on things that don’t really matter.

8. You have a new desire for discipline and simplicity.

You don’t want to live your life on autopilot. Instead, you want to become the master of yourself, and transform into the best version of yourself. To do this, you know you must maintain a semblance of order and structure in your life. You no longer desire bad foods, alcohol, or spending hours in front of the TV droning out. You’d rather use your time working on your health, becoming aware of yourself and learning to appreciate simply being alive.

You might even take on the art of minimalism so that you can shed all of the physical clutter in your life and make it easier to clear out the mental chatter, too.

9. You no longer accept the scripted life you’ve led.

You’ve no interest in most of the mundane chores and responsibilities of daily life. You know we came here for much more than paying taxes and bills. Of course, working ourselves to death doing things that don’t really benefit our planet at all. You know that we create our own realities. Indeed, you will anything into existence if we just believe and work hard at achieving our goals. You don’t want to spend the next 40+ years of your life working toward someone else’s dreams; you want to make your own come to life.

10. For a breakthrough, you must realize that you have to free yourself.

Unfortunately, no one will come in on a white horse and remove your chains for you. You must do it for yourself, and figure out how you can attain freedom in your own way. Everyone must fight for freedom, as ludicrous as that sounds, so you no longer will accept being bound by any of society’s rules and conditioning. You live your life as you see fit, and don’t care if it doesn’t fit the mold of modern living.

11. You want to spend more time in nature.

You can’t think of any place you’d rather be, honestly. We yearn for beautiful places and the natural world because we ARE part of it; we come from it, we breathe it, we bleed it, and we need it. Without nature, we would not survive. We will all return to the dirt in which we came eventually, so it makes no sense to separate ourselves from it for our entire existence on this Earth. You feel drawn to its solitude and wish to be wrapped in the arms of the sunlight. You want to come back in harmony with nature, because to breakthrough the walls we’ve built to divide us, we have to come out of them and return to our true home – our own backyards.

5 Warning Signs You’re Neglecting Your Body

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Neglecting your body right now…today…can lead to long-term consequences.

“It is health that is real wealth and not pieces of gold and silver.” – Mahatma Gandhi

Your body is the only one you’re going to have – so it seems like the most sense to treat it right, doesn’t it? Unfortunately, many of us are often so busy with work, family, and other obligations that our long-term health can start to take a backseat. Thankfully, our bodies can talk to us – even if we’re not always listening.

“We all spend our lives hoping to be a better person than yesterday. To set a good example. To be kind and honest. But being kind and generous with your life and your energy serves no one when your body is silently suffering from lack of sleep and proper nourishment,” says holistic health coach Amber Chalus.

When our bodies start to show signs of distress, it’s important that we take the time out to listen to what they need and to make changes in our lifestyle. Neglecting your body is one way to make sure that both your physical and mental health will start to suffer. Making sure you know the signs of a neglected body means that you’ll be able to make the changes that it needs right away, rather than letting it get put off more and more.

Here Are 5 Warning Signs You’re Neglecting Your Body

self-neglect

1. Low body temperature

As most people know, a healthy body temperature is about 97.8 degrees, with about a one-degree margin on the higher side. Anything above 99.4 degrees is usually considered a fever, which is what most people know to look out for. However, a body temperature lover that 97.8 degrees is an indication that your body is seriously lacking some energy.

A low body temperature is a sign of both slow metabolic and thyroid function. Dr. David Jernigan says, “A low body temperature creates a happy home for viruses and chronic infections, and is a sign of degeneration and gradual cellular death.”

Therefore, if your temperature is consistently 1 to 2 degrees below the norm, it’s best to seek out a doctor and get your thyroid and metabolism checked out.

2. Suffering from chronic fatigue

If you’re feeling constantly tired, worn out, or like you just can’t get enough energy, your body is definitely trying to tell you something. Dieting can cause issues when it comes to being able to feel completely well-rested and ready to go. A diet that is low in carbohydrates means that your body isn’t getting enough energy that it needs for your day-to-day nutritional needs. It can also be a sign of poor blood sugar. Making sure your body is getting the right food and the right amount is more important than sticking to a crash or fad diet.

3. Experiencing insomnia or poor sleep quality

Do you ever have trouble falling asleep? Perhaps you find yourself staring at the ceiling well into the night, despite the fact that you’re so bone tired you could fall over if you tried to stand up. This is a sign of insomnia, and it means that your body is all out of fuel – and stress is the only thing keeping you going! Along with insomnia, having trouble staying asleep is another cry for help from your body. Talking to your doctor, or setting consistent bedtimes, is the best way to even out your sleeping patterns.

Like Dr. Neil B. Kavey mentions, “… consider the toll insomnia takes on your life, the effect it has on your family, your ability to work at a high level, and to socialize with others. The consequences are so enormous that it’s important to do something about it.”

4. Suffering from poor digestion

While nobody really wants to talk about what happens to our food after we’ve already eaten it, keeping an eye on how well your body is digesting that food can let you know when your body is having trouble. If you’re feeling constantly bloated, or your food is shooting right through you, this means that you’re having issues with your digestion. If your body can’t break down and use the nutrients you put in it, you may want to think about changing what you put in your body!

5. Inability to lose weight

If your weight fluctuates constantly, but you find it extremely difficult to lose the weight you’ve put on, your body is probably trying to tell you something! Dieting isn’t an exact science, but with all of the crazy fad and crash diets that have been pushed through the years, you may be trying to diet in a way that’s unhealthy and neglectful to your body’s real needs.

Dr. Peter LePort says, “If you haven’t been able to lose weight and you can’t understand why, you need to determine whether there’s a medical condition underlying your weight problem…”

Your body isn’t going to lose weight when you stop giving it the nutrients it needs. Rather, it’s going to hold onto the weight that you already have, because your body is trying to protect you. If you don’t give your body enough nutrients, it’s going to think that you’re not getting enough food! Make sure your body is getting exactly enough of what it needs, instead of not enough.

Your body knows what it needs, and it will always tell you exactly what that is! Sometimes, we just don’t know the language that our body is speaking! Thankfully, doctors and nutritionists are well versed in what it means when our bodies start acting haywire. Neglecting your body should not be an option. So iff something doesn’t seem right, or if any of these things seem to be happening to you, keep in contact with your doctor. You must immediately figure out the right way to fix them for a happy, healthier body.

https://youtu.be/7BNGVmwxoHI

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved
References:
http://www.amberchalus.com/blog/2016/04/26/body-neglect/
http://drsircus.com/light-heat/low-body-temperature-symptoms-causes-treat/
http://www.webmd.com/diet/obesity/features/why-arent-you-losing-weight#1
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