Inspiration to your inbox

15 Weight Loss Makeovers That Will Help You Lose Weight

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

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

1. 211 pounds down and looking happier than ever.

Transformation 384 to 173 Total weight loss of 206 lbs.

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

My Mum’s incredible weight loss transformation

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

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

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

Weight loss transformation from r/interestingasfuck

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

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

exercise quote

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11. 151 pounds down in two years.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

10 Keys To Happiness, According To Science

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

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

10 Keys to Achieving Happiness, According to Science

 

1. Stop Pressuring Yourself to Achieve Money or Fame

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

2. What You Want Versus What You Have

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

3. It Can Be Genetically Determined

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

4. Reach Out to Others

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

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

5. Give Yourself Challenges

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

6. Be Thankful

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

7. Avoid Unhelpful People

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

8. Be Truthful

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

9. Exercise

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

happiness

10. Try to Smile

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

Final Thoughts

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

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

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

How To Practice Body Positivity Every Single Day

Learning to promote and practice body positivity is a difficult skill to acquire in today’s modern world. With so many external forces telling us how we should be, what we should look like, how we should dress, and how to have proper style, it’s easy to lose focus on oneself and seek approval from outside forces.

However, part of being a respectable person is having a positive self-image and imparting that positivity upon others. Maintaining a positive attitude, however, is not always that easy. Sometimes, we may wake up and look in the mirror feeling insecure and full of self-doubt. While we look for external sources to provide us with reassurance and gratification, the true answer to practicing positivity and removing negative thoughts comes from within.

The following is a list of guidelines and suggestions to practice body positivity:

Invest in Yourself

The first recommendation for practicing body positivity is to invest in yourself. To be comfortable in your own skin, be comfortable with being alone and do not rely on others for approval. Identify all of the things that you like about yourself and do not be hypocritical about your flaws because everybody has them. If you are truly struggling with your self-image, it may be helpful to spend time talking to a counselor to discuss your body image issues and to learn further strategies to respect and love yourself.

In addition to counseling, other ways to invest in yourself include treating yourself in ways that will help to project a positive self-image. This can include getting a new haircut, purchasing some new clothing, or buying some new accessories catered to your style. Try not to invest in a drastic makeover, overuse of makeup, and a complete wardrobe overhaul as you want a look that is manageable and that accentuates your favorite things about yourself. Another option could be to invest in classes that help maintain a positive self-image. Classes like yoga and pilates offered at community fitness centers can help you to look your best and to feel great about yourself.

exercise quote

Love Your Own Image

Another way to practice positive self-image is to take the time daily to appreciate yourself and surround yourself with positivity. Before you walk out the door everyday, look in the mirror, smile at yourself, and tell yourself that you look great to promote body positivity  You can also join social networking groups associated with positive body image. Some social networking groups have great reinforcement strategies such as daily quotes to inspire body positivity , inspirational images, or even podcasts, videocasts, and articles about feeling great about yourself.

Know that some days you will feel better about yourself than others, but don’t take the negative days to heart. We all have imperfections and setbacks, but it’s the way that we accept our flaws and embrace who we are that truly demonstrates a positive self-image.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Maintaining a healthy diet is another way to practice body positivity, but allow yourself some wiggle room. Make sure to eat a proper and balanced diet including proteins, carbohydrates, and even fats. When you eat things that are good for you, you will feel good, too. Do not get caught up in fad diets that will only leave your weight fluctuating up and down like a yo-yo. Eating a balanced diet and properly hydrating with water will promote a positive mindset, as you will feel better, sleep better, and your skin will naturally glow.

Barring any allergies or food sensitivities, you should try not to restrict yourself from having treats on occasion. Grabbing a mocha on Friday mornings or enjoying an extra piece of birthday cake at the office is not going to do drastic damage when the rest of the foods that you are putting into your body are nutritious and good for you. When you allow yourself to have rewards and don’t focus on every calorie, you will exude more self-confidence and indirectly let others know that it’s okay for them to do the same.

Exercise for Health, Not Weight Loss

Along with maintaining a healthy diet, exercise has an immediate impact on body positivity . Just like fad diets, do not force yourself into extreme or unhealthy exercise programs because advertisements or testimonials told you to do so. Find an exercise routine for you that is sustainable in the long run. Maybe you enjoy taking a hike every Saturday, maybe you have fallen in love with the zen mentality of yoga, maybe you really enjoy bodybuilding and packing on muscle.

The idea of exercise is that you get your body moving and that you are actually having fun doing it. As you find exercises that you enjoy, it is important not exercise with the mentality of drastically dropping weight or aiming for a complete body transformation. The benefits of exercise will come with time as long as you dedicate yourself to doing it. Furthermore, you’ll be more likely to stick to your exercise program when your goals are realistic, attainable, and fun to do.

Compliment, Don’t Criticize Others

A final recommendation for being body positive is to compliment, and not to criticize others. A person who truly possesses a positive self-image knows how sensitive criticism can be for others and will never try to put others down. Try to make an effort to offer a compliment to someone on a daily basis both in person and on social media. Studies have shown that social media has a direct influence on body positivity What’s more, the active use of words that encourage body positivity can change the brain.

Also, do not allow some of the exaggerated, photo-shopped, and hyperbolic representations of body image in the media, advertisements, and Hollywood inform the way that you should perceive yourself and others. Elect to treat yourself and others with kindness and respect, and your upbeat demeanor will inspire others to have a similar mindset.

Attaining a positive self-image and body positivity requires more inward efforts to treat yourself right and truly value yourself despite any flaws. Making efforts toward having more body positiivity  can eliminate depression and low self esteem. Taking the time to invest in yourself and to create and sustain a mentality of positive self-image will help you look your best and exude confidence. Similarly, you will inspire others to have respect for themselves and treat others with the respect that they deserve.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klnkeaa3pZw

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

10 Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss

We’re all looking for extra help with staying fit and trimming. Unfortunately, most of us have fallen for “quick fixes” that have the opposite effect. That’s why fitness enthusiasts and trainers in the know have turned to a whole-and-healthy-foods approach that incorporates superfoods like apple cider vinegar for weight loss.

It’s great to lose weight with apple cider vinegar because it helps you burn fat, feel full and energized, and lower your blood sugar naturally! Not only can you jumpstart your weight loss with apple cider vinegar, but it can also help you keep off the pounds.

Check out these ten awesome advantages of apple cider vinegar for weight loss:

apple cider vinegar

1. Torch More Fat

A study fed a group of lab rats the same high-fat diet but gave some apple cider vinegar (ACV) daily. The rats who got the ACV weighed less and had less abdominal fat than those that didn’t take the ACV! The study suggests that weight loss with apple cider vinegar is possible because it helps the body burn fat more effectively.

2. Eat Less, Naturally

Another great benefit of ACV is that it’s a natural appetite suppressant. Acetic acid helps you feel full by preventing your blood sugar from spiking so you don’t get that “hangry” feeling. Speaking of blood sugar…

3. Keep Blood Sugar in Check

If you’re diabetic, have pre-diabetes, or have metabolic syndrome, you know how important it is to keep your blood sugar levels steady and maintain insulin production. Apple cider vinegar can improve insulin sensitivity, making it easier for your body to burn fat and lose weight.

4. Lower Blood Pressure and Triglycerides

That acetic acid is coming back to save the day again! A human study found that people who took a daily dose of ACV lowered their triglycerides and systolic blood pressure. We all want to lose weight and look great, but these are two internal health markers that come along with healthy body weight.

5. Get a Healthy Gut

Raw apple cider vinegar has something called “the mother,” which is chock full of probiotics or “good bacteria.” It’s the stuff that helps our digestive system hum along. You can lose weight with apple cider vinegar because the body processes food better and can absorb more of the nutrients you eat!

6. Fire Up Your Metabolism

Part of the reason for weight loss with apple cider vinegar is because it helps you metabolize food better. An enzyme called AMPK is linked with better fat-burning and more lower absorption of sugars and fats. It also helps you maintain the proper alkaline balance, which supports a healthy metabolism.

7. Digest Food Better

That sour flavor is a dead giveaway that ACV is a fermented food. Learn to love it! Fermented foods help balance your colon and keep your #2’s on point by supporting healthy digestion.

8. Be Less…Puffy

You generally have less bloating when digesting your food like a champ, as you do with a daily ACV regimen. No food babies here!

9. Block Carbs

Say what now?! You heard us right. ACV can help your body convert carbs to glucose (a.k.a. energy) more efficiently, blocking the absorption of those carbs as sugars (a.k.a. fat).

10. Get an Energy Boost

Sometimes when you’re starting to work out more and eat less, you have a dip in your energy levels while your body adjusts to the new routine. Mixing some ACV into a glass of water can give you a healthy energy boost. As a result, you can power through to your weight loss goals!

From head to toe, inside and out, ACV is a natural way to manage your weight and feel good. Apple cider vinegar is safe and healthy for most people, but if you have acid reflux or heartburn issues, you should use caution and talk to your doctor first.

Make sure to get ACV “with the mother” for the best benefits. You can find it at most grocery stores and health food stores. You can reach your weight loss goal with apple cider vinegar by taking just 1-2 tablespoons a day. Here are some tips on how to work ACV into your diet:

  • Mix 1/2 or 1 tablespoon of ACV into a glass of cold water with a little honey about 15 minutes before each meal.
  • Swap out balsamic or red wine vinegar for apple cider vinegar in salad dressing.
  • Try taking your ACV in this hot drink.
  • If you decide to drink your ACV, try to use a straw to protect your teeth.

Apple cider vinegar for weight loss

Final Thought on Apple Cider Vinegar and Weight Loss

If you want to boost your efforts to take control of your health and lose weight, give ACV a try. It is worth a try, even if you are a skeptic.

So here is our question to you. How will you achieve weight loss with apple cider vinegar? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!

Experts Explain 5 Ways to Cope With Loneliness And Depression

Loneliness and depression are feelings far too many of us are intimately familiar with. As the world becomes more and more uncertain, people are beginning to feel more isolated and alone than ever before. Personal and professional problems alike can contribute to this, and sometimes it seems like there’s no way out.

There’s a way out, though, and it starts with a few small steps you can take to help yourself overcome loneliness and your depression. These five simple techniques backed by expert opinion will give you some insight into how to beat depression.

1. Reach Out

When you’re feeling isolated, it could stem from the fact that you’re, well, isolated. To fix this, try reaching out to friends and family. It doesn’t have to be for anything in particular; just have a talk.

Research suggests that human interaction isn’t just good for your mental health, but crucial. You’d be surprised at just how much having lunch with someone or even just talking on the phone can help to boost your mood.

2. Embrace the Silence

On the opposite end of the spectrum, try to make peace with yourself and being by yourself. This can be especially helpful if your solitude is more emotional than physical, but it works just as well no matter where your loneliness stems from.

Many of us believe that we need other people to find personal fulfillment, but this is a dangerous mindset to have. Each of us is a complete person on their own and relying too heavily on others can lead to many problems. Sometimes it can be necessary to remind ourselves of our own worth and remember that we can be happy all on our own.

3. Make Small Changes

Not everything has to be dramatic. The fact is, most change is gradual, so it’s unrealistic to expect your loneliness and depression to just vanish overnight because you want it to. Major change is the culmination of a lot of minor change, so start small and work your way up.

If you’re used to being inside all the time, try taking a walk every so often or sitting outside and enjoying the weather. If you’ve got a poor diet, try to promise yourself you’ll make a good meal once a week or so. Little things like this add up over time, and you’ll really start to notice the impact they have on your mood, your confidence, and your overall health.

4. Start a Hobby

One of the symptoms of depression is a disinterest in things that previously brought you joy. If this is the case for you, try to fill that void with something new. Trying new hobbies or activities can be tough, but it’s worth the effort to regain some of the passion for life you may have lost.

Being able to do something constructive with your free time rather than simply wallow in the loneliness and depression can improve your mental health significantly. Whether it’s learning a skill, returning to something you once loved, or trying a new activity, it can all help to improve your mood. It can also be a good way to meet new people if you feel you’re lacking friends.

5. Make Friends

Speaking of friends, a good way to break out of the depression rut is to try and make some. Loneliness and depression thrive with isolation, and the worst possible thing for either of these problems is feeling like you have no one to reach out to. If this is where you’re at, or even if your current social circle is somewhat lacking, it might be worth it to try and meet some new people.

Loneliness and depression

It can be tough to get yourself out there and try to make friends, especially as an adult. One way to try and overcome the awkwardness and apprehension could be in a class setting, which also gives you a chance to get out of the house and learn. Like-minded individuals have a better chance of understanding and sympathizing with your struggles, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there and find some new people to talk to.

Final Thoughts

It can be tough trying to figure out how to beat depression and overcome loneliness, but it is possible. The road to recovery isn’t easy by any stretch, but remembering simple techniques like these five can help to pave the way and make things just a bit easier.

It’s also important to remember that professional help is always an option if you or a loved one are struggling with loneliness and depression. There’s no shame in needing the assistance, especially when any of these techniques can be integrated into professional treatment with little issue.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CU2LlJxEdJ4

REFERENCES:
HTTPS://WWW.NYTIMES.COM/2017/06/12/WELL/LIVE/HAVING-FRIENDS-IS-GOOD-FOR-YOU.HTML
HTTPS://WWW.WEBMD.COM/DEPRESSION/GUIDE/DEPRESSION-SYMPTOMS-AND-TYPES
HTTPS://WWW.HELPGUIDE.ORG/ARTICLES/RELATIONSHIPS-COMMUNICATION/MAKING-GOOD-FRIENDS.HTM

10 Things That Aren’t True About Introverts (That Most People Believe)

Since there are more extroverts than introverts in the world, us introverts often feel misunderstood and alone. “The problem is that labeling someone as an introvert is a very shallow assessment,” composer and filmmaker Carl King wrote. He thinks introversion goes a lot deeper than most people think.

King wrote a list of common myths about introverts after discovering a book called The Introvert Advantage: How to Thrive in an Extrovert World by Marti Laney, Psy.D. “It felt like someone had written an encyclopedia entry on a rare race of people to which I belong. Not only had it explained many of my eccentricities, it helped me to redefine my entire life in a new and productive context.”

Carl pointed out a portion of Laney’s book that talks about how introverts and extroverts’ brains are simply wired differently. “If the science behind the book is correct, it turns out that introverts are people who are oversensitive to dopamine, so too much external stimulation overdoses and exhausts them. Conversely, extroverts can’t get enough dopamine, and they require adrenaline for their brains to create it. Extroverts also have a shorter pathway and less blood-flow to the brain. The messages of an extrovert’s nervous system mostly bypass the Broca’s area in the frontal lobe, which is where a large portion of contemplation takes place.”

The book states that only 25% of the population is an introvert. “There are even fewer that are as extreme as I am. This leads to a lot of misunderstandings.”

With that said, we hope these myths about introverts can be cleared up with the following list written by Carl King. We know that it might be difficult to stay positive as an introvert living in an extroverted world, but just remember: you’re not alone! 25% of the population (or more) is right there with you.

Here are 10 myths about introverts that most people believe:

1. They don’t like to talk.

Introverts actually love to talk! They just prefer not to talk about mundane, everyday subjects that often come up in small talk. If you start any type of intellectual conversation, you can rest assured that the introvert will happily chime in (and probably won’t stop talking).

2. All introverts are shy.

While some introverts CAN be shy, not all of them are. Most just like to keep to themselves until they have a reason to talk. Introverts can be just as friendly as extroverts, but they like to conserve energy and not carry on conversations when they don’t have to.

introvert

Introverts are not rude; that’s just society’s perception based on untrue facts. Like we said before, introverts only talk when necessary, which doesn’t make them rude or unfriendly; it just means they don’t want to talk every second. Introverts don’t really care about fitting in; they just wish people would take more time to understand them and leave them in peace.

4. Introverts don’t like people.

Introverts are just like everyone else; they like select people that they have allowed into their lives who have proven themselves loyal friends or family. They have a different way of interacting with the world than extroverts, so their reserved nature might make them seem antisocial, but they do enjoy having rich, meaningful friendships.

5. They hate going out in public.

Introverts enjoy quieter places and activities most of the time. They can go out to any place, of course, but they don’t like staying too long. Once they’ve had their fill, they like to go home and soak in a hot bath or curl up in bed with a good book.

6. Introverts never like being around people.

Introverts need more alone time than extroverts, but they do enjoy being around people, just in smaller doses.

7. They are strange.

Isn’t everyone strange in their own way? Introverts don’t like being put in a box; they simply have a personality trait that makes them who they are, and they don’t like being judged for that.

8. Introverts are self-centered.

It might seem that way since they keep to themselves a lot, but that doesn’t make them arrogant jerks. It just means they need more time to process life in their own heads.

9. Introverts don’t know how to have fun.

Introverts have fun in a different way than extroverts typically do, but that doesn’t mean they’re boring. It just means they have their own definition of fun.

10. They can morph into extroverts.

They can act a little more extroverted at parties, but they will never become a true extrovert and wouldn’t want to anyway.

Remember: if you ever feel isolated and lonely as an introvert, try to implement positive thinking. Focus on your strengths and the things that make you so unique. Introverts have plenty of positive characteristics such as the ability to contemplate decisions before acting, excellent listening skills, and innate creative skills.

Being born as an introvert simply means you derive your energy from within rather than from the outside world; it doesn’t make you weird or unlikable. We sincerely hope these myths about introverts can clear the air and show you facts about introverts instead.

Which of these myths can you relate to most? Share with us in the comments!

https://youtu.be/YHAZ6q-WbnE

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