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12 Easy Ways to Stop Bad Habits Immediately

April 13, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Do you have bad habits? If so, you’re not alone. Most (all?) of us are guilty of something of which we are not proud.

So, the question becomes, “if my behavior (thoughts, actions, etc.) makes me ashamed, angry, and guilt-ridden, why can’t I just stop?”

The answer, of course, is not a simple one. This is because the answer is stuck in limbo between the neverending interplay between conscious and subconscious.

It is important to understand three things:

How and why habits form
Things that trigger our bad habits
How to kick them to the curb.

Habit Formation

According to an article in Psychology Today, habit formation “is the process by which behavior, through regular repetition, because automatic or habitual.” In other words, habits are deeply entrenched within our brain’s neural pathways through what we repeatedly do – whether or not we are conscious of the fact. The more that the habit is repeated, the more the behavior becomes automatic.

“If you do not pour water on your plant, what will happen? It will slowly wither and die. Our habits will also wither and die away if we do not give them an opportunity to manifest. You need not fight to stop a habit. Just don’t give it the opportunity to repeat itself.” ~ Swami Satchidananda, The Yoga Sutras

Neuroscientists strongly believe that habit formation occurs in a 3-step pattern:

1. Reminder: The trigger that initiates the behavior.
2. Routine: The behavior itself – the actions we take.
3. Reward: The benefits (real or not) we gain from the habit.

Let’s illustrate a good habit using a daily exercise example:

1. Reminder: The gym clothes laid out the night before.
2. Routine: An hour cardio and weightlifting session.
3. Reward: Feeling better physically and mentally.

Here’s an example of a bad habit using alcohol:

1. Reminder: The bottle of wine atop the refrigerator.
2. Routine: Drinking to excess.
3. Reward: In the short-term, relaxation and fun – but it doesn’t last.

The ‘reward’ defines a bad habit –as the reward slowly becomes regret and dissatisfaction. Though dissatisfied, and due to the brain’s structural and chemical changes, the habit becomes more involuntary and destructive.

Stopping a Habit

(Sidenote: It must be mentioned that if you identify with more than one bad habit, try only working on one at a time. Psychologists have repeatedly demonstrated that ‘willpower’ is a depletable resource – our brain and body run out of energy exercising self-discipline.)

Here are twelve easy ways to stop bad habits

1. Label the habit

What is it that you no longer want to do? Whatever this behavior may be – procrastination, smoking, drinking, overeating, cursing, etc. – specify the habit you want to change. While identifying the habit may sound overly simplistic, it is nonetheless crucial.

These choices are so powerful because they rarely enter our conscious mind. Labeling is a way of directing your shining your energy and attention towards behavior that prefers to operate in the shadows.

2. Find the reward

Researchers explain that we get a reward or pleasure from our vices.

Do you smoke? What kind of reward do you get from smoking? Stress relief is probably smoking’s biggest draw. The act of smoking takes one’s mind off of that annoying coworker, for instance, and induces a sense of relaxation.

The problem with the ‘reward’ of smoking – and most unhealthy choices – is that such pleasures often do not last. Going a step further, our reward for bad habits often turns to regret; regret produces stress, and stress has a way of reinforcing bad habits like smoking!

3. Be Self-aware

Step three gets to the crux of the bad habit: its triggers. Identifying what triggers the bad habit – often a state of anxiety, fear, and stress – allows one to cut off the habitual impulse before it takes hold.

Going back to the smoking example, the body is more likely to crave nicotine’s relaxing effects when experiencing distress. When we’re able to observe our inner state – in this case, distress – we are much less likely to engage in defeating behaviors that result from these states.

4. Be Mindful

Charles R. Swindoll is credited with the saying, “Life is 10 percent what happens to you and 90 percent how you react to it.” This quote is most applicable concerning habits.

When approached with an attitude of mindfulness, quitting a bad habit can be seen as a journey, a difficult journey to be certain, but a journey nonetheless. So the reason is quite simple: we are our worst critics. Our attitude – and how we feel about our attitude – will ultimately determine whether or not we break our cycle of poor choices.

The point is this: do not try too hard. Relax and be self-aware. Practice calmness and embrace difficulty as a part of the process!

5. Break the habit pattern

Habits aren’t bad in and of themselves. You practice habits every day like getting up in the morning, brushing our teeth, showering, and combing your hair-all without thinking much about it. These familiar habits serve you, so you don’t need to think about each and everything you do. You take comfort from the routine. These habits may become bad for you, like overeating or drinking too much, because they damage your mind or body.

Both good habits and bad habits are similar because you can end up doing them without thinking about it. Stepping back and seeing a bad habit’s pattern in your life can help you break free of it. For instance, if you smoke a cigarette or two after dinner every evening, you can break the pattern and instead take a walk every evening after dinner.

This breaks your bad habit pattern, and you can establish a new habit pattern that will still give you a sense of a reward like feeling healthier-without harm.

6. Set new goals

It’s easy to get stuck in bad habit patterns. If you smoke after dinner and want to stop that, you begin to walk, which helps break the habit. But once you’ve broken the pattern, you can take it to the next level. Set goals to do more like walk two blocks instead of one or run around the block. Suddenly, you not only broke the habit pattern, but you’ve also established new goals to motivate you.

The goals should give you a sense of reward and pleasure, so you’ll don’t want to slip back into your old bad habits. These goals get you beyond your bad habit and bring change into your life.

7. Keep a diary

Writing down your daily struggles with a bad habit can help you break the habit. Keep track of what triggers the bad habit or when you’re tempted to do the bad habit. This will help you understand yourself better and give you the ability to stop the bad habit. Keep your notebook with you. Write down your temptations, your feelings as you did to resist the habit.

This will give you a sense of accomplishment, and you’ll feel stronger for not giving in to the bad habit. Go back and reread what you wrote each day. See the patterns, the little victories, and think about what you can do the next day to win the battle over your bad habit.

8. Exercise your self-control muscles

Studies found that regular practicing self-control can help you grow stronger at resisting a bad habit over time. The more refuse a bad habit, the more you’ll want to continue to stop the bad habit. Researchers used to think that if you tried too hard, you’d wear yourself out trying to change. But now they see that self-control can build over time. Little victories today will be bigger victories tomorrow. You have the capacity to beat your bad habits, don’t believe the lies that tell you that you can’t overcome them.

9. Replace a bad habit with other behavior

If you want to quit bad behavior, try to replace it with another one. Some people have found they could break their addiction by running or exercise. Having a systematic routine gave them the ability to break the urge for that addiction. Find something to do that you enjoy-take a class in the evenings if that’s when you’re tempted to overeat. Pursue things you’ve wanted to do but stopped because of your bad habit. Don’t let your bad habit control you. You control yourself, and you aren’t a victim. You’re strong, smart, and able to overcome your bad habits.

10. Get help from friends or family

A good supportive community is essential for overcoming bad habits. Having people around you who understand your battles and know how to help you will give you hope. Gather a close set of friends or family around you who will be able to stand with you, support you, and challenge you. It doesn’t need to be a large group-2, or 3 friends are fine. When you fall, these people can encourage you, help you back up and dust yourself off, and try again. Find like-minded friends with similar goals to yours. You can look for friends in clubs, church, school, or work.

11. Avoid the triggers

If going to the bar causes you to drink too much, stay away from the bar. Don’t put yourself in situations where you’re going to fail. That’s self-defeating and sure to make you give up. This is hard because sometimes bad habits are associated with social activities. You may need to find some new friends or a new place to hang out. Your old friends may not understand why you don’t want to get drunk with them every weekend.

Remember to take care of yourself first. Don’t feel pressured to please your old friends, even if they don’t understand. Be firm but kind, letting them know that you’re trying to change some things in your life and need a break. You must make your own life choices without worrying about what other people think about you.

12. If you fail, don’t panic

When you’re trying to break a bad habit, you may fail. Don’t worry. Failure isn’t the end of the story. Your bad habits took time to establish, so don’t be discouraged if it takes time to quit your bad habit. Two steps forward and three steps backward could be your experience at first. Don’t give up. Hang in there. As you get back up and try again, you will get stronger. You’ll begin to understand where you’re weak, and you’ll better understand your temptations.

Failing is often a great teacher because you learn what works and what doesn’t work. Stay in the fight; don’t let failure defeat you. Failing will make the victory sweeter when you’re free of your bad habit.

Other ideas for breaking bad habits

Fine yourself when you fail into a bad habit

Throw a dollar into a jar every time you bite your nails or pick pimples. It’s a tangible way to see your habits.

Baby changes

Start small. Make little changes, one at a time. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you won’t break your bad habits overnight.

Be kind to yourself

Okay, life is hard. Breaking a bad habit is for your good, but don’t get down on yourself if you don’t change right away. Give yourself some room and enjoy the process of breaking your bad habit.

Bad habits to break

So, what are some bad habits that you might need to break? Here’s a list of common bad habits.

Swearing
Picking your nose
Pulling your hair out
Biting your fingernails
Eating fast food
Watching too much television
Drinking too much alcohol
Emotional shopping
Overspending
Bullying
Gambling
Skin pricking
Eating too fast
Chewing with your mouth open
Saying yes to everything
Slouching
Anger
Overeating
Lying
Exaggerating
Gossiping
Thumb sucking
Picking your teeth

Final Thoughts on Breaking Bad Habits–Once and for All!

Of course, some bad habits are life-threatening, while others are more socially annoying. Don’t wait. Change your life-threatening habits right away for your health’s sake. If you can’t seem to be able to break a life-threatening bad habit, consider getting professional help from a counselor or therapist who can help you break free from the life-threatening bad habits that are harming you. There are also programs available that help people walk through a step-by-step break free from bad habits that dominate their lives.

But bad habits don’t need to be life-threatening for you to decide to change them. It’s always good to find ways to improve yourself, and if getting rid of a bad habit can do that, it’s worth the effort. Find a way to break the bad habit that works best for you. Stay in the fight, and don’t give up if your strategies don’t work. Try another strategy. It may be the one that works. Take your time, and remember that change takes time. Don’t be discouraged if you have bad habits. Everyone has them. We’re all trying to be better people, and breaking bad habits is just one way to become your best self.

8 Exercises That Melt Fat All Over Your Body

April 12, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Right now, it seems that HIIT workouts have hit a peak in popularity, and for good reason. Aside from the time saved on the actual workout, HIIT workouts burn fat quickly and have plenty of health benefits. Studies have shown that HIIT workouts can improve metabolism, cardiovascular health, endurance, and markers for type 2 diabetes, as well as reduce overall body fat. Some studies have even found that people can show improvement in as little as two weeks. Of course, a workout that produces these kinds of results won’t prove easy – but it will definitely be worth it!

Today, we bring you a “body furnace” workout that will have you dripping in sweat and burning up calories before you know it.

Here’s are 8 great exercises that can melt fat all over your body:

1. Squat Jumps

For this exercise, you won’t need any dumbbells. Simply stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and arms at your sides or on your hips. Then, lower your body down into a squat, but make sure you keep your torso upright and buttocks sticking out behind you. When you get to the bottom of the squat, jump up as high as you can, and then lower your body back down into a squat. Do this for 3 sets of 60 second reps.

2. Crunches

No HIIT workout would be complete without working your abs! This one is super simple. Just lie flat on your back with your hands flat beside you or behind your head. Bring your torso up while simultaneously raising your legs to perform the crunch. Make sure you don’t pull on your head or neck. Hold the position for 2-3 seconds and then release. Do 3 sets of 40 second reps.

3. Jackknife to Melt the Fat

This exercise for your abs is basically a crunch except that your arms and legs are straight out behind and in front of you. Lie flat on your back with your arms and legs outstretched. Then, bring your arms and torso up while simultaneously raising your legs. You can bend your knees slightly, but try to keep them as straight as possible. Touch your hands to your feet, and then release. Do this exercise for 3 sets of 30 seconds.

4. Squat With Lateral Leg Raise

Alright, enough with the abs; now back to legs! For this, you can choose to use dumbbells or just your body weight. If you use dumbbells, hold them above your shoulders and bring your body into a squat position. Squeeze your glutes and hamstrings, and when you’re almost standing again, lift your right leg to your size while still squeezing your glutes and core. Hold your leg up for a couple seconds, and then lower it down again. Repeat on each side for 3 sets of 30 seconds.

5. Glute Bridge

This exercise is also really simple. All you need to do is lie flat on your back with your knees bent and heels on the floor. Keep your arms out beside you or behind your head. Squeeze your glutes and lift your hips off the ground until your knees, hips and shoulders are parallel to the floor. Hold this for 2-3 seconds, then release. Once again, do 3 sets of 30 seconds.

6. Donkey Kicks

Get down on all fours with your hands under your shoulders and knees under your hips. Squeeze your glutes and kick one leg backwards and upwards with your knee bent, squeezing at the top of the exercise for 2-3 seconds. Return this leg slowly into starting position. Repeat for the other side, and do 3 sets of 45 seconds this time.

7. Swimmers–Reduce Fat All Over the Body

This is a great whole body workout! Lie flat on your tummy with your arms and legs outstretched. Keep your palms facing down and a few inches above the ground. Then, reach both legs off the ground and bring your torso up slightly. You’re mimicking a swimming motion. Lift your alternate arm and leg into the air, and squeeze all the muscles in your body. Repeat on the other side and do 3 sets of 30 seconds.

8. Plank Rotations–Decrease Gut Fat

This is a hard exercise, so if you’re a beginner, you might want to modify it by coming down on your knees. To begin, start off in a push-up position. Then, tighten your abs and shift your weight onto your right arm. Lift your left arm and rotate it until it’s pointing straight up. Hold for 2-3 seconds. Slowly come back to starting position and switch to the other side. Do this for 3 sets of 20 seconds per side.

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

Sources:
https://transformfitspo.com/cardio-furnace-rapid-workout-melt-full-body-fat-get-ready-insane-results/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2991639/
https://www.sciencenews.org/blog/scicurious/high-intensity-interval-training-has-great-gains-%E2%80%94-and-pain

8 Behaviors That Reveal Someone Was Raised By Depressed Parents

April 12, 2018 by Power of Positivity

According to The National Council on the Developing Child Working Paper on Maternal Depression, upwards of 20 percent of mothers suffer from feeling depressed at some time during their lives – and often when their children are still of a young age.

But depression doesn’t just affect women…

Though females are twice as likely to develop the condition. The American Psychological Association (APA) estimates that 9 percent of men in the United States have daily feelings of depression or anxiety.

Why are these numbers important?

Frankly speaking, children – particularly when they are younger – depend on continuous interaction from adults. Here’s Dr. Masgrove: “For young children, healthy development depends on the daily, consistent and responsive interactions with a primary caregiver.” It is worth mentioning at this point that up to one-third of fathers with working wives are regular caretakers.

Parents who battle untreated depression are less willing, or able to, say, help their kids with homework, remember a doctor’s appointment, or read them a bedtime story. In short, the quality of caregiving suffers – and the child’s development is often adversely affected.

Dr. Ann Masgrove, a developmental scientist and faculty member at the University of Arizona, specializes in family studies and human development. One wonders if this career choice was born out of what she herself experienced as a child. Indeed, Masgrove’s narrative is saddening and tragic…

“When I think back to my mother when I was a child, I don’t have a single memory of her smiling. She suffered from chronic, lifelong depression, and it affected me and my four siblings every day.” ~ Dr. Ann Masgrove: “How my mother’s depression shaped my whole life.”

“We quickly learned that we couldn’t depend on (my mother) for emotional or physical support,” Masgrove says. “At 7, I became my family’s caretaker.”

Transitioning to adulthood can be a difficult task, as well. Here we will focus on the possible effects of parental and maternal depression once a person reaches adulthood and beyond.

Here are 8 adult behaviors of someone who had depressed parents:

1. Disciplinary Problems

Most kids who have severe disciplinary problems are often experiencing some dysfunction in the home. Sadly, if the situation (i.e., a parent’s depression or poor caregiving) is not rectified, the odds of any behavioral and disciplinary troubles carrying on into adulthood increase considerably.

2. Social Difficulties

Per the World Health Organization (WHO), children with depressed parents are more likely to experience social problems: “The most compelling evidence for the impact of attachment status on the child is with respect to peer relations.”

The WHO report concludes that these social difficulties “have been shown to be related to behavioral problems, including disruptiveness, aggression, and delinquency, especially in boys.”

3. Withdrawal and Isolation

When a kid is worried about what’s wrong with mommy or daddy, the child may very well disengage from their external environment. This is a big problem because young kids require outside stimulation for healthy brain development. Sometimes, this relative lack of interest in the outside world extends to their peers.

In short, social withdrawal or isolation is one of the most damaging things to a child’s development.

4. Anxiety and Depression

Studies show that children of depressed parents are up to three times more likely to develop depression and anxiety than kids of non-depressed parents.

According to Healthline, scientists “believe that as many as 40 percent of those with depression can track it to a genetic link.” Environmental factors, according to the research, account for 60 percent.

5. Poor Emotional Intelligence

The poor emotional intelligence (EI) of adults with depressed parents is likely attributable to one of two things: (1) infrequent caregiver interaction that stunts emotional development, or (2) withdrawal from peers, which is essential to this type of intelligence.

Self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management, the four components of EI, are far more important to success than IQ or educational attainment.

6. Underachievement or Overachievement

Here’s Dr. Masgrove: “I was a perfectionist, an overachiever, always trying to get my mother to notice me, always longing for her acceptance, love, and attention that just never came my way.” Masgrove’s personality carried on into adulthood.

On the opposite side of overachievers are those kids-turned-adults who have, most unfortunately, deeply entrenched cognitive, psychological, and/or social troubles.

7. Physical Health Problems

According to a World Health Organization (WHO) review study, a fair amount of evidence exists that shows a link between the quality of psychosocial care – measured by the caregiver’s affection, openness, and warmth – and a person’s nutrition and growth status.

Depression often leads to inadequate caregiving, which may ultimately negatively impact a person’s physical health.

8. Loss of Direction

Per the WHO report, “Infant temperament, particularly infant difficultness, has been found to be associated with the caregiver-child interaction,” adding “Mothers report feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of caring for a vulnerable child.”

Feelings of overwhelm (e.g., anxiety) unquestionably have strong environmental roots – and it’s something with which we all must contend. However, one’s outlook on life is also shaped by their caregivers; and an inability to manage (and see past) life’s obstacles carries a real risk of leaving someone adrift.

Researchers Explain What Your Eye Color Says About Your Personality

April 11, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Do you know the factors that influence eye color? Surely, most of us simply answer “genetics,” and this is partially true. Partially.

Per the University of Delaware, “Eye color is not an example of a simple genetic trait. (Instead), eye color (is caused) by the variation of several different genes and the interaction between them … this makes it possible (for example) for two blue-eyed parents to have brown-eyed children.”

(It’s worth noting here that we’re NOT referring to the whites of the eyes, but the color of the iris. The former, of course, is at times a clear indicator of one’s state of health.)

While humans have successfully decrypted the human genome, these “interactions” are numerous – with many being inexplicable. Consider the title of this article. What in the heck could eye color say about your health and personality? Well, if the studies mentioned here are valid, they can reveal quite a bit.

Here are five things that your eye color may show about your health and personality!

Light eyes: You’re Competitive

In a 336-person study, Australian researchers surveyed people of white European descent with the aim of measuring personality traits. The assessment included statements like “I make people feel at ease, “I see myself as someone who is considerate and kind to almost everyone,” as well as one’s association with words such as friendliness, generosity, and empathy.

Analysis of the research found that people with lighter eyes (for example, blue and light green) are viewed as more competitive and less agreeable.

Light eyes: You’re Less Likely to Develop Vitiligo

Vitiligo is an autoimmune disease in which certain areas of the skin lose pigment cells. Symptoms and signs of vitiligo include patchy or depigmented areas of the skin that cover the body, including the hair, retina, and mucous membranes.

In a study undertaken by scientists from the University of Colorado School of Medicine, researchers found that just 27 percent of the nearly 3,000 people diagnosed with vitiligo had blue or grey eyes. A link also exists between vitiligo and other diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, lupus, and thyroid disease.

RELATED: WHAT YOUR EYE SHAPE REVEALS ABOUT YOUR PERSONALITY

Dark eyes: You Drink Less

“People with light irises drink more, that’s an undeniable conclusion of this study,” says Christopher Quinn, an ophthalmologist and board member of the American Optometric Association. But, how and why?

The study that Dr. Quinn speaks of is a Georgia State University survey of 12,000 men and women in which the researchers state they found “a real relation between eye color and alcohol consumption.”

Scientists note that the relationship between eye color and propensity for alcohol usage possibly stems from “greater sensitivity to alcohol (and some medications in dark-eyed individuals” and the connections between the limbic (emotional and arousal) centers of the brain and eye color.

Dark eyes: You’re More Trustworthy

In a study published in the journal PLOS ONE, participants asked 238 volunteers to rate the trustworthiness of a person based on eye color. “Eye color had a significant effect,” the authors note, but stating that they were a bit less certain whether additional facial features – the chin, jaw, brow, etc. – influenced the results.

As such, the researchers concluded with “…it was not brown eye color per se that caused the stronger perception of trustworthiness but rather the facial features associated with brown eyes.” Facial features such as larger eyes, bigger mouths, and broader chins also correlate with trustworthiness, according to the authors.

Dark eyes: You Have Healthier Eyes

Per a study published in Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, people with light-colored eyes may be up to twice as likely to develop macular degeneration than people with eyes of a darker shade. Macular degeneration is a condition which may result in blurred or no vision in the center of the visual field.

The reason, says ophthalmologists, is that darker irises block U.V. light more effectively than lighter ones. U.V. light is, of course, a significant risk factor for the development of several eye-related conditions, including progressively worse vision while aging.

Sources:
http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0053285
http://blog.hecht-kontaktlinsen.de/wpcontent/uploads/2015/07/eyecoloralcohol.pdf
https://udel.edu/~mcdonald/mytheyecolor.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/vitiligo/symptoms-causes/syc-20355912
https://www.rd.com/health/conditions/eye-color-health-and-personality/

5 Easy Ways to Relieve Thyroid Problems Naturally

April 11, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Thyroid problems can wreak havoc on one’s overall wellness. If you seek information to try to reverse the harm, rest assured you are not alone.

“An estimated 20 million Americans have some form of thyroid disease. Up to 60 percent (are) unaware of their condition. Women are five to eight times more likely than men to have thyroid problems. One woman in eight will develop a thyroid disorder during her lifetime.” ~ American Thyroid Association

For such a small gland, the thyroid gland immensely impacts our health. So consider just some of the things that the thyroid hormone affects:

cholesterol levels
heart rate
body weight
energy levels and mood
muscle contraction and relaxation
skin and hair texture
bowel function
fertility
menstrual regularity
memory

Thyroid Conditions

Given its broad scope of responsibilities, it’s hardly a surprise that many things can go awry when the thyroid isn’t properly functioning. A thyroid problem is directly related to hormone production – conditions known as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Hypothyroidism is the name given to an underactive thyroid. Low thyroid hormone levels define this disorder of the endocrine system. Hypothyroidism can cause numerous symptoms, including constipation, fatigue, depression, and weight gain.

The overproduction of thyroid hormones characterizes hyperthyroidism. An overactive thyroid can significantly accelerate the body’s metabolic functions. Symptoms of hyperthyroidism include irregular heartbeat, nervousness and irritability, heart palpitations, and sudden weight loss.

The causes of thyroid disorders include the following:

autoimmune deficiency
consuming too many soy-based foods
high estrogen levels or low progesterone levels\
nutritional deficiencies, including iodine, selenium, tyrosine, and zinc
toxic levels of mercury

Natural Thyroid Treatments

The problems with thyroid-related treatments mimic those of other medical disorders in that they’re costly, have numerous side effects, and are often ineffective. Then, of course, there’s the more significant issue of being on medication for the rest of your life and the long-term implications of such.

As mentioned, nutritional deficiencies are often a cause of thyroid troubles. On that note, it is crucial to ensure adequate intake of the above nutrients: iodine, selenium, tyrosine, and zinc.

Of the four nutrients, iodine deficiency is far and away the most common deficiency associated with thyroid troubles. Iodine enters the body through iodine-rich foods, including iodized salt, eggs, fish, sea vegetables, raw and unpasteurized dairy products, and certain whole-grain foods. If you ruminate over possibly not having enough vitamins and minerals in your diet, a good supplement will do fine (preferably all-natural or organic.)

Here are some other natural treatments that may ease some of your thyroid troubles:

1. Ashwagandha

As with most natural treatments, this Ayurvedic herb isn’t studied or talked about much in traditional medicine. However, some herbalists and other naturopaths (and some medical doctors) state that ashwagandha appears to directly affect the thyroid hormones ‘T3′ and ‘T4′.

“Ashwagandha is my favorite choice for supporting the thyroid when stress is also a concern,” says Natasha Turner, naturopath and author of The Supercharged Hormone Diet. She recommends taking between 750 to 1000 milligrams (mg) daily.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains lauric acid, caprylic acid, and capric acid – all medium-chain fatty acids that increase energy and promote a healthy metabolism. Several studies have shown that merely adding a tablespoon of coconut oil to your diet can accelerate fat loss.

The oil of coconut is quite versatile. In fact, it can be used as cooking oil or as an additive. Many people who swear by coconut oil also add a tablespoon to their favorite smoothie.

3. Probiotics

Probiotics may help thyroid troubles by healing the gut. Products such as kefir, kimchi, kombucha, organic yogurt, sauerkraut, and others also contain their fair share of quality ‘Probs.’

Mechanically, probiotics promote a healthy balance of microflora bacteria in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. A well-balanced microbiome helps to absorb nutrients, heal leaky gut syndrome, heal inflammation, and suppress adverse autoimmune reactions.

4. Seaweed

Quality seaweed is a beautiful source of iodine, the most common nutrient deficiency for people with thyroid problems. Quality and freshness are paramount when choosing a seaweed product.

Kelp, kombu, nori, and wakame are all seaweeds that are relatively easy to find. Dry varieties of seaweed can be found in local health food stores. Common recipes include seaweed added to fish cakes, tuna fish, and soups.

5. Try a Shoulder Stand

Okay, we won’t try explaining this one for health reasons. Here’s Andrew Weil, M.D., explaining why it may help:

“…a shoulder stand (can) help by increasing circulation to the thyroid (this isn’t a good idea if you’re pregnant, menstruating, or have glaucoma and should be done with caution if you have high blood pressure or sinus problems).”

Before you engage in this athletic move, we advise seeking medical advice from your doctor, especially if you have additional health concerns. Another piece of advice: make sure to stretch, and if you feel pain at any time, immediately discontinue the pose.

Science Explains What Happens to Your Body When You Cuddle Every Day

April 10, 2018 by Power of Positivity

Do you like to cuddle? Do you embrace the comfort of snuggling up against your love? Well, there may be some scientific reasoning behind these lovey-dovey feelings.

Our sense of touch is the very first sense that we develop. After just eight weeks in the womb, a 2.5-centimeter long embryo already has a highly developed sense of touch. Towards the end of life, our sense of touch is the last sense to diminish.

As it turns out, physical manifestations of touch are vital to psychological well-being. Katherine Harmon, an award-winning writer and journalist for Scientific American, wrote in 2010:

“…researchers have been discovering how emphasizing skin-to-skin contact between baby and parent can be a boon to both, and how consistent emotional engagement with infants can speed their development and recognition of self.”

Harmon notes, tragically, that babies who are deprived of touch and emotional engagement “are at a higher risk for behavioral, emotional, and social problems as they grow up.” These problems, Harmon states, could remain with a person throughout their life.

From Babies to the Bedroom…

Harmon’s research is mentioned for this reason: to demonstrate the incredible physical and psychological influence of human touch. We are biologically hardwired to receive touch and, as Harmon explains, the lack thereof can manifest into serious problems.

Which brings us to cuddling. Cuddling, as we all know, is the act of holding someone close as a way of showing love or affection. It is also one of the most intimately effective forms of touch. (Cuddling is also a common practice among members of the same sex – and the benefits are just as tangible.)

Here are a few of the things that science says happens to your body when you cuddle:

“Although poets and authors have tried to describe love, in the world of neuroscience, researchers have found that the naturally occurring hormone oxytocin and love are intimately related.” ~ Psychology Today

You Feel Happier

Cuddling stimulates release of the brain chemical oxytocin, one of the brain’s “feel-good” hormones. Some people also refer to oxytocin as the “love hormone,” as it creates strong feelings of relaxation, stability, and trust. Additionally, oxytocin also appears to reduce stress responses, including anxiety. It also positively influences bonding behavior.

Oxytocin also produces many physical and psychological effects. In females, oxytocin plays essential roles in reproductive functions, including breastfeeding, giving birth, and sexual activity.

You Feel More Connected

According to Dr. Fran Walfish, a renowned child, couple, and family psychotherapist in Beverly Hills, California, cuddling is a powerful way to bring two people close together:

“The most obvious benefit to cuddling is getting close to your partner in the physical sense. There is also the release of dopamine which is an excitatory hormone that increases sexual desire.”

Cuddling also enhances the bond between parents and babies. Science points to the release of neuropeptides as the reason for this effect.

You Communicate Better

As we all know, non-verbal communication is just as powerful as the verbal kind. We all want to be understood, and communication is the underpinning of empathy and understanding.

Sarah Watson, a licensed marriage counselor, says “Cuddling is such a great way for couples to connect! (It) helps us bond, and can lower anxiety, depression and blood pressure. I recommend cuddling to increase intimacy with your partner.”

You Feel Better Rested

In a study published by the Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry in Munich, Germany, researchers found that activation of parts of the brain’s HPA axis helps promote restfulness. More specifically, the actions of neuropeptides in the HPA axis regulate healthy sleep-wake behaviors.

Any couple that loves to cuddle can undoubtedly attest to the study’s findings. In fact, this biological response associated with cuddling may help explain why restful sleep is more difficult for couples when one is away from home.

Cuddling Tips

Samantha Hess, owner of ‘Cuddle Up To Me’ and self-proclaimed cuddle expert, gives some practical advice. While ‘cuddle advice’ may sound silly, Hess’ professional tips can make the experience more enjoyable while helping safeguard your physical health.

1. Be creative: Believe it or not, there are up to 58 (!) different cuddling positions. Do a bit of research and find what positions are most personally enjoyable and relaxing for you and your cuddle buddy!

2. Listen to your body: While the benefits of cuddling are very real, it doesn’t do any good if your body is in pain. Resting on your side too often, for example, can cause inflammation of the shoulder; too much pressure on your back can lead to back pain, etcetera. So don’t stay in the same position for too long and make sure to change things up!

3. Start slow: Not everyone is comfortable with cuddling up to someone else. Hess recommends starting with simpler positions – while reading, or laying back-to-back or side-by-side. These subtler cuddle spots may help warm you both up.

Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/275795.php
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/love-and-gratitude/201310/oxytocin-the-love-and-trust-hormone-can-be-deceptive
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0167011503001186
https://www.scienceofpeople.com/the-power-and-science-of-cuddling/
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/infant-touch/#

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Habit Formation

Neuroscientists strongly believe that habit formation occurs in a 3-step pattern:

Let’s illustrate a good habit using a daily exercise example:

Here’s an example of a bad habit using alcohol:

Stopping a Habit

Here are twelve easy ways to stop bad habits

1. Label the habit

2. Find the reward

3. Be Self-aware

4. Be Mindful

5. Break the habit pattern

6. Set new goals

7. Keep a diary

8. Exercise your self-control muscles

9. Replace a bad habit with other behavior

10. Get help from friends or family

11. Avoid the triggers

12. If you fail, don’t panic

Other ideas for breaking bad habits

Fine yourself when you fail into a bad habit

Baby changes

Be kind to yourself

Bad habits to break

Final Thoughts on Breaking Bad Habits–Once and for All!

Here’s are 8 great exercises that can melt fat all over your body:

1. Squat Jumps

2. Crunches

3. Jackknife to Melt the Fat

4. Squat With Lateral Leg Raise

5. Glute Bridge

6. Donkey Kicks

7. Swimmers–Reduce Fat All Over the Body

8. Plank Rotations–Decrease Gut Fat

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

Sources: https://transformfitspo.com/cardio-furnace-rapid-workout-melt-full-body-fat-get-ready-insane-results/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2991639/ https://www.sciencenews.org/blog/scicurious/high-intensity-interval-training-has-great-gains-%E2%80%94-and-pain

Why are these numbers important?

Here are 8 adult behaviors of someone who had depressed parents:

1. Disciplinary Problems

2. Social Difficulties

3. Withdrawal and Isolation

4. Anxiety and Depression

5. Poor Emotional Intelligence

6. Underachievement or Overachievement

7. Physical Health Problems

8. Loss of Direction

Here are five things that your eye color may show about your health and personality!

Light eyes: You’re Competitive

Light eyes: You’re Less Likely to Develop Vitiligo

Dark eyes: You Drink Less

Dark eyes: You’re More Trustworthy

Dark eyes: You Have Healthier Eyes

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

Thyroid Conditions

The causes of thyroid disorders include the following:

Natural Thyroid Treatments

Here are some other natural treatments that may ease some of your thyroid troubles:

1. Ashwagandha

2. Coconut Oil

3. Probiotics

4. Seaweed

5. Try a Shoulder Stand

Here are a few of the things that science says happens to your body when you cuddle:

You Feel Happier

You Feel More Connected

You Communicate Better

You Feel Better Rested

Cuddling Tips

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Stay Connected With

Us

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!

Sources:
https://transformfitspo.com/cardio-furnace-rapid-workout-melt-full-body-fat-get-ready-insane-results/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2991639/
https://www.sciencenews.org/blog/scicurious/high-intensity-interval-training-has-great-gains-%E2%80%94-and-pain

Rise and Shine On!
Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist