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18 Things Men Do That Women Will Never Understand

March 25, 2023 by Sarah Barkley

While women can be understanding, there are some things they may never understand about men. These things remain a mystery, and there’s no way of telling if they’ll ever receive accurate answers. However, you can try to get it, and men can try to help others understand.

Women might get frustrated about some of the things men do, or they might only be confused. Either way, it can interfere with relationships despite how much you love one another. Everyone confuses the opposite sex somehow, so it’s not surprising that a female sometimes doesn’t understand her man.

Men aren’t alone in doing things people don’t understand. Women also do things people don’t understand, and you can read about it in a separate article.

Things Men Do That Women Don’t Understand

Men do things that women may never understand because their brain anatomy differs. Here are some of the more common things they do that confuse others:

1 – Men Avoid Conversations About Feelings

Many people know the stereotype that men don’t discuss feelings because it makes them appear weak. However, many people think a man who talks about emotions is more attractive than those who don’t. Despite how females want males to speak up, they don’t often do so.

Males often want to come up with a solution without discussing their feelings about the situation. On the other hand, females usually choose to talk about all the emotions regarding it.

It’s not that guys don’t have feelings, but they would rather keep their worries, fears, and other emotions to themselves. They’ll suggest solutions or sometimes handle the situation alone because they don’t see a reason to delve into emotions.

2 – Look for Things and Not See Them

Males tend to look for things, say they can’t find them, and then you’ll find them where they belong. You might even ask if they looked in a specific location, only to find it there yourself. They seem not to see things within their eyesight, and there’s no good reason.

3 – Men Often Forget About Details…or Don’t Care About Them as Much as Women

When someone tells men an exciting announcement or detail about their life, he won’t recall any details. Either he doesn’t ask, or he forgets before the conversation ends. These conversations might involve the birth of his friend’s baby, a wedding announcement, or other important life events.

They don’t seemingly forget to be rude, but it can be confusing why they don’t retain the information or inquire. However, it’s even more confusing when a man remembers other things that are much less exciting.

4 – Obsess Over Sports

Women don’t always understand why men get so excited about sports. They don’t understand the fun of attending sporting events, especially when the weather isn’t favorable. Females also don’t get why people watch sports for hours and become so emotional about it.

Men might become frustrated about missing a game or plan their weekend around one. They might also continue talking about it for days after it ends. Females don’t always understand this, but there are likely things women obsess over that others don’t understand.

5 – Men Seem to Like Adjusting Themselves in Public

Some males don’t mind adjusting their privates in public when they feel the need. Other people don’t always get it because they think it would be more appropriate to do it privately.

6 – Keep the Toilet Seat Up

Many people don’t understand why men won’t put the toilet seat down when they’re finished. Females could give many reasons a man should put it down, but they still don’t do it.

7 – Why Their Pee Ends Up in Places Other Than the Toilet

While on the bathroom topic, females also don’t understand why guys get pee everywhere. They seem to get it on the floor, toilet seat, or toilet bowl edge. It seems easy to aim and make it where it belongs, but it doesn’t always go as planned.

8 – Not Talking to Friends and Loved Ones Often

Females seem to be better about regularly talking to the people they care about. It might seem weird, but males don’t feel the need to interact as often. They assume their loved ones know they care anyway, even if they don’t reach out.

9 – Some Men Describe Their Exes as “Crazy”

Not all men do this, but enough of them do that other people wonder about it. They’ll describe their exes as being crazy without a valid explanation of the reason. It sometimes seems that every female from their past gets defined this way.

10 – Taking a Long Time to Respond to Text Messages

Males don’t always reply to messages right away. They’ll see it, interact with others on social media, and still not respond. Even when they do respond, it might be a short message that doesn’t involve much engagement.

Women sometimes take it personally, assuming the guy wouldn’t do this if they liked them. However, that’s not always the case, although it’s hard to say why they do it.

11 – Men Ask for a Phone Number and Then Never Call

You’ve likely wondered why a male asks for your phone number but never reaches out if you’ve experienced it. There can be many reasons for this, including that he’s:

afraid to call
worried about rejection
doesn’t know what to say
waits too long and then thinks it’s too late
changed his mind
doesn’t think you want him to call
prefers to text

If you want him to call you, consider being straightforward when you give him your number. Tell him that you’d like to talk on the phone because it’s easier to get to know someone that way than through text. It assures him you want him to call, and he won’t be as worried or afraid.

12 – Think That Being Nice Means a Woman Wants a Romantic Relationship

People often say they want a nice guy, and many take it literally. They think being nice to you will make you fall in love, and they don’t have to do anything more. However, there’s much more to relationships, and it can become confusing.

Other times, guys assume that being nice will get them what they want. They might think a female can’t or won’t turn them down if they’ve been nice. Males don’t always realize there’s much more to attraction, and kindness can also work for a friendship.

13 – Catcalling Women

Most women have experienced catcalling at some point in their lives. Men seem to think it’s flattering and could score them an attractive partner. However, it rarely works that way; females think it’s rude behavior.

14 – Think Their Drink Defines Their Masculinity

Everyone knows a male who won’t order specific drinks at the bar because he thinks they’re “girly”. The beverage might be delicious, but they won’t try it and make fun of other males who do. Females don’t understand the issue because they’ll order whatever they think sounds good.

15 – Use Silly Nicknames with Their Friends

Nicknames are great, but men often call their friends by names that don’t make sense. They even use these nicknames publicly without ever wondering how they sound or what it implies.

The silly names often don’t align with the person’s full name or anything related to them. Other times, they’ll call their friends by something regarding what their friend likes, but it would be better to use something else. It doesn’t always make sense to females, leaving them confused.

16 – Men Love Turning Everything into a Competition

It often seems like men want to make everything into a competition. Regular daily activities become a chance to compete against everyone around them. They don’t even need a prize for the competition because they only want to see if they can succeed.

Their competitions sometimes don’t make sense or matter at all, but they think it’s fun and want to do it anyway. This behavior is mostly harmless, although it can be confusing about why they do it.

17 – Swear They Drive Better Than Women

Men tend to think they’re better drivers than anyone else around them, especially women. However, most insurance companies have higher rates for young men because they’re more likely to be in an accident. Despite this information, they’ll still swear they can drive better than you.

18 – Behave Like They’re Dying When They’re Sick

Most people have heard that guys don’t always handle illness well. They seem sicker than a woman with the same sickness and act like they’re dying. Many women joke about this experience or get annoyed when their man can’t handle being sick.

Final Thoughts on Things Men Do That Women Will Never Understand

We all do things that confuse others because everyone is different. However, men often do things that women can’t understand. Females want to understand males, but it’s harder than it seems because the mindset differs.

It’s okay that males do confusing things because women do it too. You can only work to understand one another as you communicate and delve deeper. It’s okay that men think differently; it doesn’t mean anything is wrong with them or their thought processes.

12 Signs a Woman Likes You (But Is Afraid to Say It)

March 24, 2023 by Power of Positivity

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if finding out if a woman likes you would be as easy as it was in school? You could slip them a note, and they would check “yes” or “no.” If you were desperate, you could grab a flower from the field and tear off a petal, and chant with each one, “she loves me, she loves me not.”

As an adult, finding out if there’s an attraction between you and a lady often requires a bit more detective work. The good news is you won’t have to be as thorough as Perry Mason or Matlock, as she will give you plenty of subtle clues that show her attraction to you.

NOTE: These behaviors indicate general behaviors you would see in a female. We acknowledge that men, too, can be shy about expressing themselves when they like someone. However, they display different behaviors, as covered in a separate article.

Twelve Signs a Woman Likes You

Body language is an essential form of communication, and it’s the one thing you need to observe regarding women. A woman can tell you a lot without ever opening her mouth. If you want to know if that attractive woman who makes your heart skip a beat is into you, look for these signs.

1. A Woman Who Likes You Finds Excuses to Be Close to You

Women can be very manipulative when it comes to getting their men. They may find every excuse possible to be close to you. If she finds out you’re going with your friends to a concert, don’t be surprised if she doesn’t show up. If your chance encounters seem commonplace, you can bet that it was orchestrated as an attempt to be close to you.

2. She’s Always Staring

You’re in a crowded room, but you can’t help but notice her eyes are fixated on you. She sees you, and she wants to be close to you. However, she may not be as bold as to talk to you yet so she will stare at you.

A woman wants to see your muscles and overall physique and get a look at those manly hands and stylish haircut too. You intoxicate her, and she fears if she looks away, she will miss something you do or say.

3. A Woman Who Likes You Will Laugh at Your Jokes

Maybe you tell some good jokes, and sometimes your remarks aren’t funny. Interestingly, she laughs at all your wisecracks. She finds most things you say to be funny, which is one way to show there’s an attraction. She’s hanging on every word you speak and thinks you’re hilarious.

4. She’s Playful and Touchy Feely with You

If she thinks you’re attractive, she won’t be able to keep her hands off you. Now, if you’re not together as a couple, she will find more subtle ways to touch you. For instance, she may walk past you and accidentally brush into you in a crowded room.

While it’s not the kind of touch she craves, it’s certainly enough to get her “fix,” as she wants to be close to you and your attractive body. A woman who has it bad for you might even play footsie under the table to see if you respond to her advances.

5. A Woman Who Likes You Is in a Good Mood When You’re Near

If you’ve watched rom-coms, you know how women turn on the charm when a love interest is near. It’s like flipping a switch on their mood, as they seem to light up when the person they want to be with enters the room. Have you noticed these behaviors from a woman you think is special?

If someone is into you, she can’t help but feel overwhelmed by your attractive nature, and you have the power over her to elevate her mood.

6. She Plays the Damsel in Distress

Another classic move by a woman smitten is to play the damsel in distress. Since the dawn, ladies have viewed men as the knight in shining armor coming to save the day. Teens drop their books or bags in school when a potential suitor is close.

In real life, it won’t be schoolbooks, but she might drop something so that you step in to help. She wants some attention, help, and for you to notice her. So don’t be surprised if she doesn’t orchestrate some clever ruse that requires your attention.

7. A Woman Who Likes You Might Be a Big Bundle of Nerves

Does she get tongue-tied when you’re around? Did you know that tongue-tied is an actual medical condition often used as a metaphor? According to the Queensland Health Hospital and Health Service, when a baby is tongue-tied, it must be fixed, or it will impact their speech.

So, when a lady is tongue-tied, it’s not from a physical abnormality, but your charming nature overtakes her and can hardly speak. You send her nerves into a tailspin, and her words become jumbled.

8. She Completely Ignores You

While some women get overjoyed when they see someone they like, some use different tactics. Some ladies may seem like they despise you even though you’ve never done a thing to them. However, you must remember there’s a fine line between love/hate.

Some ladies feel very uncomfortable showing genuine emotions, so they play coy. Acting like they don’t like you is easier for some than putting their feelings on display and being vulnerable. Denying the attraction may work for a while, but it only works briefly. Their true feelings can only be stifled for so long.

9. She Seems to Know a lot About You

She seems to know a lot about you when you talk to her. You feel like she’s a fan because she’s done her homework. She knows more about you than some close friends. You’re wondering whether you should be impressed or weary that a woman is doing so much research.

Thankfully, it’s usually a positive thing to happen. Since the internet makes research so easy, she’s just trying to find out about you because she cares. A toxic narcissist wouldn’t typically go this far as it would take away time from doing things for themselves.

10. A Woman Who Likes You Connects on Your Social Media Pages

You might get a friend request from her, or she may start liking all your social media posts. If she’s following you on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and other pages, it’s undeniable that she’s attracted to you. She fears you will post something without her knowing, so she’s linked to all your channels.

Additionally, she’s eager to see pictures you post of your attractive nature, as she’s all eyes. She’s got it bad, and if she starts slipping into your DMs, it’s obvious how she feels.

11. She Reciprocates Your Advances

You’ve got an attraction to her, but you may want to see if she feels the same way. One way you can know for sure is to make subtle advances to see if this woman will reciprocate. If she returns the sentiment, it’s a sure sign she wants to be with you too.

One of the easiest ways to see if there’s something there is to ask her out on a date. Does she immediately say yes to you, or must she think it over a bit? You have your answer if she’s eager to go anywhere with you. She’s reciprocating that there’s some attraction between you two.

12. She Smiles and Plays with Her Hair

She wants to appear attractive in your eyes, so she will make little flirtatious gestures to get your attention. Things like smiling, playing with her hair, or even rubbing her neck are open invitations to respond. Any woman looking at you when making such advances has an ulterior motive.

A study by the University of Kansas found that humans often have difficulty distinguishing if someone is flirting with them. You might notice the cues if you pay close attention.

The study states that 80 percent of the participants found flirting hard to see, as it’s not always so straightforward. The issue is that the person doing the flirtatious behavior doesn’t want to feel embarrassed if the feelings aren’t returned, so they’re afraid and may not be as open as they like. Some people have mastered the art and have no issues, but others may use subtle gestures that may be challenging to identify.

Final Thoughts on Seeing All the Clues That a Woman Likes You

It’s not always easy to tell if someone likes you, but if you start watching her advances, how she talks to you, or how she acts when you’re in the room, you can tell a lot about her attraction.

It’s often the case that people get so caught up in work and daily stressors that they often don’t see the signs that are right in front of their faces. If you want an attractive woman by your side, you need to open yourself up and pay close attention to her actions.

15 Mantras to Help Shy People Open Up

March 24, 2023 by Sarah Barkley

Being shy can make it hard to open up to people, but positive mantras can help. Using mantras can encourage you to be yourself and get to know people, allowing you to do things you wouldn’t have otherwise.

You might be timid and quiet, making it hard to get out of your shell when you’re shy. These mantras can make you feel better about attending parties, social gatherings, or public events. They can also help you open up to people at work, school, or anywhere else.

It helps if you write the mantras down to keep them nearby when you need a boost. It’ll help you remember to use them when your shyness takes over.

How to Use Mantras for Shy People

Mantras can highlight your positive qualities and help you replace negative self-talk. Experts indicate that they can help you feel more confident, stronger, and capable of communicating. Another study shows that it increases compassion toward yourself and others, making it easier to open up.

When choosing mantras, make sure they resonate within you. Repeat them anytime you need encouragement to be yourself in social settings. They can give you a boost of confidence and allow you to make the most of your experience.

The most common way to use mantras is to repeat them aloud. However, it’s not the only way.

Shy People Can Feel More Confident With Mantras

Finding the way that’s comfortable for you is essential to making it a habit. Some of the other ways you can use them are:

writing them down
typing them
recording yourself saying them

It’s also important to consider when you’ll use the mantras. Using them first thing in the morning can help you embrace positivity from the beginning of your day. You can also use them throughout the day for a continual confidence boost.

Saying them before bed is beneficial because it helps you release negative feelings about opening up. It also increases your chances of waking up with a positive mindset. Do it whenever it works best for you, and stick to a routine for the best results.

Writing Mantras

Once you become comfortable using these positive mantras, you can write your own. Writing them helps you make mantras specific to your situation. It’ll help you focus your mindset and let go of your fear.

If you write them, you’ll want to ensure they’re written in the first person and present tense. They should be emotionally charged and focus on positive qualities.

The mantras also shouldn’t be a far stretch from your current situation. You can adjust as you develop, but make sure the phrases are attainable or believable.

Fifteen Mantras to Help Shy People Open Up

Positive mantras can help change your life for the better. They can help in many situations, encouraging shy people to open up and come out of their shells. These phrases can help increase your confidence and allow you to enjoy social interaction.

1 – I am at ease when I’m around others.

Shy people don’t always have an easy time being around others, especially if they don’t know them well. This mantra can help you feel more comfortable if you feel that way. It’ll encourage you to relax and feel at ease, helping you make friends and embrace positive relationships.

2 – I am capable of socializing.

You might feel like you’re awkward in social situations or that you can’t hold a conversation. However, you’ll get better every time you do it, so it’s best to get out there. Use this mantra to reaffirm that you can enjoy the company of others without a problem.

3 – I am confident in who I am.

You’ll become more self-assured when you tell yourself that you’re confident. It’ll help you feel better about yourself and stop questioning who you are. Plus, it can help you open up to others and make meaningful conversations.

4 – I am embracing my comfort zone to enjoy social situations.

You can enjoy socializing by staying within your comfort zone. It allows you to connect with people in a natural and authentic way. Use this mantra to remind yourself that you can be yourself and still meet new people.

Staying within your comfort zone can be empowering. You can cultivate meaningful relationships and find joy in the simple moments of life without compromising who you are. Each time you honor your comfort zone, you can better understand yourself and what brings you happiness.

5 – I release the fear that people won’t agree with me because it’s a learning opportunity.

You’ll meet people who disagree with you, and it’s okay. It doesn’t mean you can’t get along with them or that you can’t open up to people. Everyone has differing opinions, and you can learn how to socialize with anyone. This phrase gives you the courage to communicate with people who disagree.

Mantras can remind you to speak up and share your opinion without fear of judgment. Debate and conversation can help you learn and might ease your anxiety about the next interaction.

6 – I spend time with supportive people.

One way to ease shyness is to reaffirm that the people you spend time with are supportive. If you go to a gathering with friends or family, trust that you have them there for moral support. You might encounter people you don’t know, but the supportive people who got you there can help you feel more comfortable.

7 – I release thoughts that interfere with who I want to be.

If you want to be a social person, but your shyness interferes, this mantra can help you. Your thoughts might make you question yourself and hold you back from interacting. Repeating this phrase can help you release those thoughts and embrace the social life you want.

When you experience negative self-talk, it radiates from you, giving off a negative vibe. When you can let go of those thoughts, it encourages you to interact and helps you radiate positivity. Other people will be drawn to you, allowing you to see the good in yourself.

8 – I am getting better at socializing.

Each time you spend socializing improves your skills. Before you know it, you’ll feel confident and comfortable in your ability to interact with others. Whenever your confidence wavers, repeat this mantra to help you remember that you grow each time you get out there.

9 – I am practicing self-love and giving myself grace.

If you’re shy, you likely feel uncomfortable in social situations. It can cause you to fumble over your words, withhold your opinion, or do anything else you wish you didn’t do.

Rather than beating yourself up over these things, you can use mantras to help you feel better. Practicing self-love and giving yourself grace reaffirms that it’s okay when you don’t react perfectly. People like you and enjoy your company, and you’re more than worthy of forming relationships.

10 – I am excited about socialization opportunities.

Rather than dreading opportunities to interact with others, use this mantra to get excited. When you look forward to the experience, you’re more likely to feel confident in your abilities. You’ll feel more comfortable opening up and getting to know others.

11 – I am courageous as I interact with others.

Reaffirm your courage as you get ready to socialize with others. Using this mantra as you get ready can make you feel confident and encourage you to open up. It can help you experience a positive social life and get to know great people who improve your life.

12 – I accept myself for who I am, and others will, too.

When you accept yourself, others will love you, too. Self-acceptance leads to confidence and’ll shine through for everyone to see. Being sure of yourself is one of the best ways to attract positive people into your life. Repeat this mantra before encountering others, so it’s fresh in your mind.

13 – I deserve to have friends who care about me.

You can’t make friends if you don’t open up to people. This phrase reaffirms that you’re deserving of healthy and fulfilling relationships. It’ll encourage you to talk to others and get to know the people around you.

14 – I want to make myself proud, so I’m doing things that scare me.

You won’t be proud of your life if you never do anything that scares you. If you’re shy, make it a point to get out and socialize. It prevents you from missing out on opportunities and experiences, allowing you to live a life you don’t regret.

Push yourself to take risks and do things that intimidate you. You’ll be glad you did it because it can help you live in the present and enjoy interacting with others.

15 – I am more than enough.

If you ever feel like you’re not good enough to open up to those around you, it’s time to use this mantra. You’re more than good enough and worthy of making friends and enjoying your time with others. People like spending time with you; you shouldn’t be afraid to let loose and be yourself.

Final Thoughts on Mantras to Help Shy People Open Up

Repeating positive phrases can ease your fears and help you be yourself around others. However, be patient when using mantras because they might not work immediately. Your brain often takes a while to recognize them as the truth.

Once you make it a habit will help you get out there and open up to people. You’ll feel more confident in your abilities and begin looking forward to social interaction.

10 Ways to Beat Negativity in Under 5 Minutes

March 24, 2023 by Lakeisha Ethans

Negativity can have a range of effects on an individual, including psychological and physical effects. For example, negative thoughts can lead to increased stress and anxiety, depression, and decreased self-esteem and motivation. Even physical health problems, such as heart disease and a weakened immune system, can be caused by negativity.

Negativity can also impact social relationships and interactions, making it harder to connect and communicate with others. In addition, it can lead to a negative spiral, where negative thoughts and emotions lead to more negative thoughts and feelings. Eventually, this creates a cycle that is hard to break out of. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the effects of negativity.

It would be great if negativity could go away in a second. But that’s not how it works, unfortunately. Still, quite a few techniques can help you manage negative thoughts in as little as five minutes. Of course, these are not long-term solutions, but they sure work if you are in a pinch.

You will also need to work to reduce negativity through more complex methods that help you make a lasting change. But you should keep a few of these tricks in mind when things get a bit out of hand, and you need a quick fix.

10 Ways to Beat Negativity in Under Five Minutes

1. Use Breathing Techniques

Breathing techniques refer to various methods to regulate the breath to promote relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being. They are quick, easy, and a great way to beat negativity in a few minutes. There are many different techniques, but one stands out. It has more variations, but they all revolve around the same concept.

You need to count how many seconds you inhale, hold your breath, and exhale. Box breathing involves breathing in for a count of four, holding the breath for a count of four, and breathing out for a count of four. The 4-7-8 technique involves breathing in for a count of four, holding the breath for seven, and exhaling for a count of eight. You must repeat the sequence for both methods until you feel you’ve released the negativity.

2. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude is the practice of focusing on what we are thankful for. It has been shown to impact our mental and emotional well-being positively and can help reduce feelings of negativity. Practicing gratitude can be as simple as taking a few minutes each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for.

This can include loved ones, good health, a comfortable home, or a fulfilling job. It can also include small things we might take for granted, like a warm meal or a sunny day. Practicing gratitude can shift your focus from negative thoughts to positive ones.

3. Be Active

Being active physically can be an effective way to beat negativity. It can release endorphins, chemicals known as “feel-good” hormones in the brain. They can help improve mood, reduce stress, and promote well-being. Regular physical activity can also help improve sleep, positively impacting mood and reducing feelings of fatigue and irritability.

There are many different forms of physical activity to choose from. Finding something you enjoy and can make part of your daily routine is essential. Physical activity does not have to be intense to be beneficial. Even a simple walk around the block can help to improve mood and reduce feelings of negativity.

4. Do Guided Meditation

Guided meditation involves following along with a recorded voice or a live guide as they lead you through the meditation process. It can effectively beat negativity by promoting relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety, and improving overall well-being. In addition, guided meditation can help to focus the mind and reduce distracting thoughts.

This can be particularly helpful for individuals who find it challenging to meditate independently. Some people even find that listening to music while they meditate can help them release negative thoughts. So guided meditation can be beneficial for everyone. But it may take some experimentation to find the type of meditation that works best for you.

5. Connect With Loved Ones

Having strong social connections and a sense of belonging can provide emotional support and a sense of safety. This can help to reduce feelings of stress, loneliness, and depression. And the best is that you are just a few clicks away from your support system because of technology. Even a text or a short phone call can make all the difference in your day.

Sharing your thoughts and feelings with someone you trust can help release pent-up emotions and reduce negativity. The people who love you can help you in more ways than just a text. Sure, that works in a pinch. But for a lasting change, you must stay as connected to them as possible.

6. Write Your Thoughts and Goals Down

Writing down your thoughts and goals can be an effective way to beat negativity by helping to clarify your thoughts. It can also help you create a sense of purpose and increase feelings of control and empowerment. You can also understand and process things better when you write them down.

It can help to identify patterns of negative thinking and emotional triggers, which can help address them. But it’s also essential to set goals when you feel negativity is taking over. It can provide a sense of purpose and direction, which can help to reduce feelings of aimlessness and uncertainty. Writing down your goals can also help make them more concrete and tangible, increasing the likelihood of achieving them.

7. Practice Mindfulness to block out negativity

Mindfulness is a practice that helps individuals focus on the present moment and become more aware of their thoughts and emotions. This can reduce negative thoughts and emotions by providing a new perspective and allowing for better management. Practicing mindfulness can be done through various techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and body scanning.

These practices can help you become more aware of your thoughts and emotions and can also help you learn how to manage them more effectively. Practicing mindfulness can help you develop a more positive outlook and improve your overall well-being. And none of these techniques are hard to do. For example, body scanning involves tapping into your body’s feelings and needs. And this scan can be done in just a couple of minutes.

8. Use Positive Affirmations

Positive affirmations are short, positive statements repeated to oneself to change negative thoughts or beliefs. They can be used to promote self-confidence, self-esteem, and motivation. By repeating positive affirmations, you can train your mind to think more positively, which can help you overcome negative thinking patterns.

It’s essential to use specific, personal affirmations and ensure they’re in the present tense. It’s also essential to ensure that affirmations align with your values and beliefs. Reading or reciting affirmations daily, especially in the morning, can help to establish them as part of your routine and make them more effective.

9. Go Outside to release negativity

This is potentially the easiest thing you can do if you want to beat negativity. And, given how effective it is, not many people know about the benefits that the sun and fresh air can bring to the table. So, if you’re feeling negative and it’s affecting your mood, go outside. Taking a walk or spending time outdoors can be a great way to improve your mood and reduce feelings of negativity.

Being in nature positively impacts mental health and can help reduce stress, improve mood, and boost self-esteem. Additionally, exposure to sunlight can increase the production of vitamin D, which is essential for overall physical and mental well-being. So, going outside can be a great way to clear your mind, get some fresh air, and improve your mood.

And it can be done in less than five minutes; however, the more time you spend outside, the better you’ll feel. If you can spend this time somewhere quiet and surrounded by nature, that’s even better.

10. Make a Kind Gesture

Being kind to people is something you should do regardless of how much negativity you are dealing with. You should do it because you care about helping others and improving the world. But sometimes, even the most altruistic acts can end up benefitting you.

Performing a kind gesture for someone else will positively impact the person receiving the kindness. But it will usually also positively affect the person performing the gesture. This is because acts of kindness can release endorphins, a chemical in the brain that create feelings of happiness and well-being.

Helping others can shift focus away from negative thoughts and feelings and give a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Some kind gestures, like volunteering, require a little more time. But helping a neighbor carry some bags or simply holding the door open for someone only takes a minute.

Final Thoughts on Some Ways to Beat Negativity in Under Five Minutes

It’s okay to have negative thoughts and feelings. Most people struggle with them daily because, let’s face it, life can be pretty bleak sometimes. But it’s essential to find ways to manage them healthily and productively. And there are several simple and effective ways to beat negativity in under five minutes.

You can choose from various activities depending on where you are and your needs. Some people prefer being more active and exercising in those few minutes. Others will want to go outside and soak in the sun. Or maybe they’ll want to write their thoughts down and find a goal to pursue to keep them occupied.

There is something for everybody, and most of these can be done anywhere, at any time. But, as negative thinking shouldn’t be taken lightly, you should also focus on dealing with them more thoroughly. These tips can be incorporated into your daily routine to help maintain a positive mindset.

5 Reasons Why Smart People Don’t Waste Their Time on Jealousy

March 23, 2023 by Kristen Lawrence

Jealousy, also called the “green-eyed monster,” corrupts the soul and creates turmoil in daily life. For a good reason, they call envy a monster because it eats away at people until it eventually drives them mad. Nothing positive ever comes from jealousy, yet many people have difficulties overcoming this emotion.

The most trivial things can cause envy to rear its ugly head, such as a friend receiving more likes or comments on Facebook. Or, you might feel jealous when a coworker gets more compliments on her outfit than you do. Envy can also happen in relationships if you think your partner is more attractive and fear someone else will catch their eye.

Jealousy often stems from insecurity since humans naturally compare themselves to see how they stack up against the competition. Most people subconsciously want to outdo others in some manner and care deeply about how people perceive them. Therefore, it’s important to “keep up with the Joneses” so they don’t get left behind.

However, jealousy will only leave you feeling bitter and disillusioned when you realize the futility of it all. Owning the world means nothing if you lose your soul in the process, anyway. If you’ve been feeling jealous of someone lately, this advice will encourage you to release destructive emotions.

5 Reasons Why Smart People Avoid Jealousy

1. Jealousy creates discord in relationships.

Whether it’s a platonic or romantic relationship, jealousy drives a wedge between people. It can break up even the strongest relationships because it’s insidious and damaging to the soul. Envy creates unnecessary competition between people who never feel satisfied because they constantly need to prove themselves.

If their friend gets a raise, they must earn a promotion or look for a higher-paying job. When they notice a friend buying a new house, they suddenly feel like shopping for real estate to “win” the unspoken competition.

In a romantic relationship, an insecure partner might go out of their way to make their partner jealous by flirting with other people. But in the end, no one wins these silly games except the inflated ego, endlessly looking for new ways to feed its insatiable appetite for power.

So, insightful people avoid all this mental suffering by simply not giving in to jealousy. They try to create healthy relationships with others based on cooperation instead of competition.

2. It only makes you feel worse.

As with all negative emotions, jealousy only darkens the mind and blackens the soul. It might feel cathartic to give in to envy instead of ignoring it, but the high won’t last forever. Eventually, allowing emotions to cloud your judgment will backfire, creating more stress in your life.

You might make rash decisions, like buying expensive things to outshine a friend or colleague. Not to mention, your mental and emotional state will become imbalanced, making it difficult to think about anything else.

Insightful people don’t waste time on jealousy because they know it’s the thief of joy.

3. They look within for fulfillment.

Intelligent people also don’t entertain the idea of jealousy because they realize happiness comes from within. No material item, relationship, or anything outside themselves could make them feel complete. Therefore, they see no point in keeping up with others’ greed and vanity.

People often envy others because they have low self-esteem and need validation to enhance their worth. But insightful people know that sweet words of affirmation can never compare with the bliss felt within the soul.

Jealousy causes people to have a flawed idea of themselves and believe they’ll never be good enough. However, the wisest souls understand the temporary nature of the world and don’t get caught in the comparison trap.

4. Jealousy makes people ungrateful for what they have.

When you live in a scarcity mindset, you never feel satisfied, even if you own the world. Therefore, it only makes sense to question the source of jealousy and understand its flawed nature. If envy never goes away no matter how many material items you have, why even acknowledge the feeling? The only antidote to jealousy involves practicing gratitude for friends, family, your job, and personal possessions.

Studies show that expressing gratitude can improve mental health and rewire the brain! Instead of feeling envious, you’ll focus on creating positive emotions like happiness and love. Remember, what we give our attention to expands, so it makes sense to avoid negative experiences or feelings. That doesn’t mean you should suppress emotions but transmute them into something productive.

5. It destroys your personality over time.

People might know you as a cheerful, encouraging person who always tries to make others smile. However, envy can easily change your optimistic persona into someone your friends don’t recognize. Much like the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, you may act like a different person when jealousy strikes.

Most envious people end up alone because they cannot control their emotions and end up hurting others. Therefore, intelligent people avoid jealousy because they value their mental health and personal relationships. Negative feelings like envy create density and heaviness in the soul, whereas positive emotions make you feel light and liberated.

Intelligent people note the difference in their energy when they experience various emotions and try to avoid those that bring them down.

Final Thoughts on Why Intelligent People Reject Jealousy

Most people feel jealous of someone during their lives and don’t think anything of it. However, this emotion can add significant tension and stress to life if you allow it to fester. A passing moment of envy won’t cause much harm, but repeated instances of jealousy can have dangerous consequences. It can destroy friendships, corrupt the mind and soul, and lead to feelings of inadequacy after a while.

Envy also makes you forget about all the blessings in your life and encourages a scarcity mindset. Smart people reject jealousy and embrace gratitude to avoid these painful outcomes. They know that abundance lies in the soul, not the material world, so they look within to find ultimate fulfillment.

10 Exercises to Heal Back and Neck Pain

March 22, 2023 by Sarah Barkley

Neck and back pain can happen to anyone, and it often occurs at the most inopportune time. When it happens to you, you can do exercises to help alleviate the pain and find comfort.

You might wake up with back or neck pain, or it might set in toward the end of your day. Sometimes it’ll seem like it never goes away, making it hard to pinpoint the cause. When you experience back and neck pain, stretching and strengthening exercises can make a difference.

Consider doing dynamic stretches before your exercises and static stretches afterward. It’ll help ease the pain and prevent injury.

Six Frequent Causes of Neck and Back Pain

Your neck and spine contain bony vertebrae with flexible cartilage discs in between that work as shock absorbers. You also have nerves inside your spinal cord and various ligaments and muscles that support your neck and head.

When any of these areas gets injured, it can cause pain. Acute neck pain often heals on its own and goes away within a couple of weeks, but some conditions require treatment. If your injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, an injury lawyer can help you seek compensation.

The average adult head weighs between 10 and 12 pounds when it’s in an upright position. However, looking down at a device (like your phone) can increase the load your head places on your neck by 60 pounds. It’s often called “text neck” since many feel pressure from looking down at their phones.

Some common causes of back and neck pain include:

muscle strain from poor posture, overuse, or awkward sleep positions
injury from sports, falls, or accidents
wear and tear from aging
herniated disc
osteoporosis causing weak or brittle bones
arthritis

Stretching and doing strengthening exercises to ease pain can be uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t cause more pain. If it does, stop immediately and consult a healthcare professional. They can suggest other exercises you can try, or they’ll help diagnose the cause of your pain.

Warming Up with Dynamic Stretching Exercises

Dynamic stretches help prepare your muscles, ligaments, and joints for performing exercises. Choose a couple of these before exercising and do each for 30 seconds to one minute.

Neck Roll

The neck roll stretches your neck and upper back. Here’s how to do it:

Face forward and tilt your neck to the right until you feel the muscle pull.
Hold it for a couple of seconds and roll your head counterclockwise.
Once you reach your left shoulder, hold the position for a couple more seconds.
Continue the counterclockwise rotation until you’re back to the starting position.
Repeat the stretch but roll your head clockwise this time.
Do it two to three times.

Shoulder Roll

The shoulder roll is good for stretching your upper back and shoulders. Here’s how to do it:

Stand up straight and let your arms relax at your sides.
Lift your shoulders toward your ears and squeeze your shoulder blades together.
In a circular motion, roll your shoulders backward.
Complete five rotations backward.
Roll your shoulders forward in a circular motion another five times.
Repeat each direction until your shoulders, back, and neck loosen.

Overhead Arm Reach

The overhead arm reach helps stretch your shoulders and upper back, preparing your body for exercises. Here’s how to do it:

Sit down, face forward, and put your feet flat on the floor.
Lift your right arm above your head.
Reach to the left while bending your torso until you feel the pull of the stretch.
Return to the original position and repeat the movement five times.
Switch to your left arm and do the same thing another five times.

Note: After you master this gentle stretch, you can turn it into a full body stretch, like in this video:

Chair Rotation

The chair rotation stretch can help loosen up your upper, mid, and lower back. Here’s how to do it:

Sit sideways with your right side resting against the back of the chair.
Without moving your legs, rotate your torso to the right as you reach for the back of the chair, pushing further until your muscles loosen.
Hold the position for ten seconds, and repeat on each side three times.

Exercises to Heal Back and Neck Pain

Exercises for back and neck pain can help strengthen the muscles and reduce and prevent pain. Some require simple equipment, but you don’t need anything for others. Choose a couple to start with to see what you like best, switching it up sometimes to try them all.

1 – Cat-Cow Yoga Pose

This exercise can help heal the pain in your back and neck. Here’s how to do it:

Get on all fours with your palms beneath your shoulders and knees under your hips.
Inhale and tuck your pelvis as you round your back, pulling your navel toward your spine.
Lower your head until your neck relaxes.
Hold the position for three to five seconds before exhaling and returning to the original.
Look up toward the ceiling (or sky), letting your back sink to the floor.
Hold that position for another three to five seconds before returning to the start position.
Repeat the process five times.

2 – Reverse Dumbbell Fly

The reverse dumbbell fly requires two lightweight dumbbells. It helps strengthen your upper back and shoulders while healing and preventing pain. Here’s how you do it:

Hold two dumbbells with your arms hanging straight down.
Hinge your waist at a 45-degree angle.
Without moving your neck, raise your arms out and up.
When you can’t lift any higher, squeeze your shoulders together.
Do this for three sets of eight to twelve reps.

3 – Rowing Exercises (2 variations)

A row can help reduce pain in your upper back. It requires a resistance band or dumbbell. Here’s how to do it:

Using a Resistance Band

Attach the resistance band to a stable surface or pole before grabbing each handle and extending your arms.
Bend your elbows and keep them close to your body as you pull the handles straight back.
Do this for two to three sets of eight to 12 reps.

Using a Dumbbell

Hold the dumbbell in your right hand and extend your left arm to brace yourself on a wall or other sturdy surface.

With the dumbbell hanging down, hinge your waist 45 degrees.
Keep your neck in place and pull the dumbbell straight up, bending your elbow.
Repeat for two or three sets of eight or 12 reps.

4 – Neck Flexion and Extension (Forward and Backward Exercises)

This exercise is simple and can help heal neck pain. One of the best parts is that you can do it anywhere you are. Here’s how to do it:

Flex your chin toward your chest until you feel stretching in the back of your neck.
Hold it for five to 10 seconds before returning to the original position.
Extend your head backward, raising your chin toward the ceiling until you feel stretching in the front of your neck.
Hold this position for another five to 10 seconds before returning to the original.
Repeat each direction two to four times.

5 – Knee to Chest

This exercise is good for your lower back. Here’s how to do these exercises:

Lie on the floor, face up.
Bend your left knee and pull your leg up to your chest.
Hold it for five seconds before releasing it and alternating legs.
Alternate until you’ve done it three times each.

6 – Lat Pulldown

The lat pulldown can strengthen and alleviate pain in your upper back and shoulders. Here’s how to do it:

Place a resistance band on a stable surface with space beneath for sitting, kneeling, or standing.
Reach up with both arms and pull the resistance band down until your arms are parallel to the floor.
Hold it for at least three seconds before releasing the resistance
Do three sets of lat pulldowns, with eight to twelve reps in each.

7 – Face Pull Exercises

The face pull exercise is good for your upper back and requires a resistance band. Here’s how to do it:

Secure a resistance band to a stable surface higher than eye level.
Using an overhand grip, grab each handle and pull toward your face.
As you pull the resistance band, flare your upper arms out and squeeze your shoulders together.
After holding for a few seconds, repeat the exercise for three sets of twelve reps.

8 – Superman

These exercises can help alleviate pain in your mid to lower back. Here’s how to do it:

Lie on your stomach and extend your arms straight out above your head.
Raise your legs and arms simultaneously without moving your neck.
Focus on using your back muscles and glutes while lifting.
Hold it for a few seconds, return to the starting position, and repeat for three sets of ten reps.

9 – Lateral Neck Flexion (Side-to-Side Bends)

This exercise can help ease pain in your back and neck while strengthening your muscles. Here’s how to do it:

Bring your ear toward your shoulder, and bend your head to the right.
When you feel the stretching in your neck, hold this position for five to 10 seconds.
Repeat the stretch on the opposite side.
Do these two to four times in each direction.

10 – Wall Angel Exercises

The wall angel strengthens your neck and upper back, helping heal and prevent pain. Here’s how you do it:

Stand against the wall with your back flat and your feet out slightly.
Place our arms out next to you, making a “T” shape against the wall.
Bend your elbows and move your arms 90 degrees until your hands are next to your head.
Move your arms as if you were making a snow angel, keeping your back and arms flat against the wall.
Repeat the wall angel exercise for three sets of 10 reps.

Post-Workout Static Stretches

Static stretches are best after a workout because you hold the position for a while. The prolonged static stretching can temporarily reduce your muscular strength, endurance, reaction time, and exercise performance. Doing it after your exercises can also help restore and maintain flexibility and range of motion.

Final Thoughts on Exercises to Heal Back and Neck Pain

Back and neck pain can be hard to live with, but many exercises can help alleviate the discomfort. Try a few each day, and switch them up until you try them all. Finding the ones that work best for you can motivate you to do them regularly, and you’ll feel good while doing them.

Talk to a healthcare provider if these exercises don’t help your pain. You should also contact your doctor if you experience pain after an injury or have other symptoms. Getting help will improve your life and well-being.

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