10 Reasons to Stop What You’re Doing and Love Yourself Right Now

April 11, 2016 by Power of Positivity

In today’s society, many of us are zooming about, trying to manage professional lives and care for our families, while juggling all of the other wild card events in life that are too long to mention. Sometimes, forgetting about it all and taking a few minutes to practice some self-care is simply the best choice you can make. Here’s why you need to love yourself right now:

10 Reasons to Stop What You’re Doing and Love Yourself Right Now

1. Because self-love is self-acceptance

Self-acceptance and self-forgiveness go hand in hand. When you accept yourself, you see yourself as an imperfect human being and you forgive yourself for past mistakes. This forgiveness allows you to make future mistakes without feeling like a failure.

You are not a failure. You should never feel that way. You may have made a poor choice in the past, but you have definitely learned from it in order to be where you are at this moment. Accept and love your imperfections. They are only a small part of who you are.

2. Stop what you’re doing and love yourself because you are different from everyone else and you are also just as valuable as every other person

No two people are alike; even identical twins have different tastes, thoughts, emotions and desires. That makes you a very special, valuable, and rare individual. You are like a yet-to-be-discovered gem that is more valuable than a diamond.

Likewise, no other human being on the planet is more or less valuable than you are. You do not think of yourself as more important than another person, no matter how much you love yourself. Loving yourself does not mean that you are full of pride and ego. Someone who loves him or herself would never belittle others to make themselves feel good.

3. Stop what you’re doing and love yourself because you have unique talents

There is something that you can do that no other person on this planet can do. That talent might be the way you love and support your loved ones, or it could be your incredible spicy lasagna recipe, but you alone are the person who could put so much of yourself into that handiwork.

4. Stop what you’re doing and love yourself because your mind is capable of incredible things

Right now, you should love the fact that you can do whatever you put your mind to doing. IF, for example, you set a goal to climb Mount Everest, and you are determined to make it happen, then there is literally nothing that can stop you from reaching your goal. Your mind can power you through pain, emotional hardship, grief, frustration, and fear.

5. Stop what you’re doing and love yourself because self-love attracts love

Loving yourself can assure that you will attract your ideal mate. Self-love opens your heart to the possibility of other-love. Once you have filled your own cup of self-love, you can give love to others without draining your own resources.

This doesn’t mean that you have to be perfect at self-love before you can find love. In fact, you can be a self-love work-in-progress, but start loving yourself now. The sooner you give to yourself, the sooner you can give whole-heartedly to your romantic partner.

6. Stop what you’re doing and love yourself because self-love means giving yourself excellent mental and physical self-care

Self-love means good hygiene, good health, feeding your body well, and moving your limbs joyfully. Self-love means protecting yourself from harm and dangerous situations. Self-love means preventing yourself from reaching emotional lows and from self-medicating with alcohol, food or other substances to feel better.

Self-love also protects you from harming others and may be a way for mental health care professionals to prevent violence. In a study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, researchers found that subjects with hidden low levels of self-esteem were more likely to become violent and hurt others.

7. Stop what you’re doing and love yourself because self-love connects you to the divine

When you love yourself, you feel a spiritual connection to your inner essence; your spark of life. Your appreciation and love for that spark that makes your heart beat, your consciousness dream, and your soul feel joy is also love for the Creator.

8. Stop what you’re doing and love yourself because choosing self-love means making excellent choices

Choosing self-love is not a selfish act. By making decisions that support your needs, you give yourself the gift of joy. Choosing the activities that bring you positive emotions over negative ones is not selfish, it is an act of self-love.

9. Stop what you’re doing and love yourself because self-love can make you more attractive

A person who radiates confidence is a person who loves him or herself. This confidence is what other people often describe as a person who exudes a sensual attractiveness. Self-confidence is sexy.

10. Stop what you’re doing and love yourself because self-love is a rejection of bad habits and victimization

Whether it’s nail-biting or over-indulging at the buffet, bad habits are a type of self-injury. We cause ourselves harm unintentionally when we do not love ourselves enough.

A study of 7th graders and self-love found that low self-regard contributes over time to victimization by peers. The researchers say “Poor self-concept may play a central role in a vicious cycle that perpetuates and solidifies a child’s status as a victim of peer abuse.” Children who felt little self-love were more likely to feel shunned by peers than when they are “self-protected” by healthy self-regard.

These Things Happen When You Spend Two Hours In Silence Every Day

April 10, 2016 by Power of Positivity

In an increasingly noisy, overstressed, hectic world, we hardly get the benefits and pleasure of silence, even within our own minds. Before the modern world, we enjoyed natural sounds in our environment. We had the sounds of a flowing river or stream, the wind blowing in the trees, and the animals frolicking throughout the woods. However, we now hear the sounds of machinery, cars, and technology. Indeed, all these noisy contraptions take away from the necessity of silence. While silence is highly sought after and greatly revered, we don’t get nearly enough of it.

Science stresses the importance of silence for our brain health, hopefully encouraging you to seek a quiet place in nature whenever possible.

Here’s why silence is important for brain health:

“The quieter you become, the more you can hear. – Ram Dass

Silence helps your brain to regenerate cells

A 2013 study published in Brain, Structure and Function monitored mice under the effects of both silence and different types of noise. What they found shocked the scientists – they discovered that two hours of silence per day promoted cell growth in the hippocampus in the brain. This part of the brain controls memory, emotion, and learning.

Researcher Imke Kirste said: “We saw that silence is really helping the new generated cells to differentiate into neurons, and integrate into the system.”

So, science proves that silence can help to restore your brain literally. Does anyone feel a sudden inclination to go on a walk in nature, or is it just me?

Silence allows the brain to store and evaluate information

A 2001 study defined a “default mode” of brain function that showed that even during resting states, the brain actively stores and evaluates information.

Follow-up research found that the default mode allows us to engage in quiet self-reflection. In 2013, in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, Joseph Moran et al. wrote that the brain’s default mode network “is observed most closely during the psychological task of reflecting on one’s personalities and characteristics (self-reflection), rather than during self-recognition, thinking of the self-concept, or thinking about self-esteem, for example.”

When the brain rests, it can then internalize and evaluate information in “a conscious workspace,” said Moran and colleagues.

It seems quite obvious that the great overabundance of noise in society doesn’t allow our brain the quiet time they need to process information effectively. This might explain why so many people complain of feeling “scatterbrained,” or complain of brain fog.

Silence can get rid of stress and anxiety

Not surprisingly, the noise exposure can result in elevated stress levels in the body. Of course, that is bad news for our long-term health. The sound waves reach the brain as electrical signals via the ear. In turn, the body reacts to these signals even during periods of sleep. The amygdalae (located in the temporal lobes of the brain), associated with memory formation and emotion, becomes activated during periods of loud noise, which releases stress hormones into the body. If you live in a loud environment, you probably have elevated levels of cortisol in your body.

A study published in 2002 in Psychological Science (Vol. 13, No. 9) examined children’s brains after Munich’s airport got relocated. Gary W. Evans, a professor of human ecology at Cornell University, explained that children exposed to a certain noise eventually learn to ignore it since it triggers a stress response within the body. However, the noise caused the children to ignore annoying or loud stimuli and other stimuli they should be focusing on, such as speech.

“This study is among the strongest, probably the most definitive proof that noise – even at levels that do not produce any hearing damage – causes stress and is harmful to humans,” Evans says.

Silence allows us to think more clearly

Studies have found that noise negatively affects task performance at work and school. It can also cause decreased motivation and increased errors. They also concluded that children in households or classrooms near airplane flight paths, railways, or highways have lower reading scores and slower cognitive and language development.

However, when exposed to silence, the brain can restore itself and recover some of the cognitive skills that have been lost through excess noise.

We hope this article will encourage you to spend some silent time for at least five or ten minutes daily. Finding silence in our increasingly noisy world might prove difficult. Even better, going out into nature a few times a week can help considerably.

These Things Happen When You Try Sensory Deprivation

April 10, 2016 by Power of Positivity

If you’ve been looking for a new way to meditate, you’ll want to consider sensory deprivation. If you haven’t heard of it, just picture floating blissfully in a room filled with salt water. You have total darkness, devoid of sound. The water temperature perfectly matches your skin temperature. The setting tricks your mind into not being able to sense where your body ends and the water begins.

At first, it might seem intimidating to close yourself in from the outside world and experience being alone with nothing but your thoughts and your own heartbeat. But, after a few minutes, your body and mind will acclimate to the sensory deprivation tank. You will slip away into a state of non-being. It’s a feeling you might not have been able to reach during “normal” meditation due to outside stimuli.

These Things Happen When You Try Sensory Deprivation

Consider this 1997 analysis of 1,000 descriptions of sensory deprivation. According to the participants, over 90% found the experience deeply relaxing. But what exactly makes this relaxing, and what happens during sensory deprivation?

Dr. John C. Lilly, a researcher and neurophysiologist working for the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in the 1950s found a few answers throughout his studies of the brain/mind and the origins of consciousness. He developed the flotation tank to block out external stimulation from the mind and measure the effects of this isolation on the brain.

Flotation therapy originated about a half-century ago. But people have begun to flock to these places because of an increasing interest in mindfulness and sensory deprivation. In addition to the relaxation of total silence and darkness, the Epsom salt packs even more benefits. According to the Epsom Salt Council, applying the salt to the skin can help you to maintain adequate magnesium levels since Epsom salt is high in magnesium, improve heart rate and blood circulation, lower blood pressure, relieve stress, improve nerve function, flushes toxins from the body, and much more.

As far as sensory deprivation goes, many studies prove the benefits of immersing yourself in total silence for a short period of time. Our overstressed and overly loud world wreaks havoc on our bodies and minds. We still haven’t learned to adjust to modern living in our evolution fully. So, with that in mind, the benefits of sensory deprivation don’t seem all that surprising.

Flotation therapy works because the brain doesn’t have to worry about processing visual stimuli. The brain starts to create its own without external stimuli, which can spark creativity and enhance cognitive function. In 2000, one study found that volunteers’ visual cortexes were far more active after just an hour of sensory deprivation.

Another Study on Flotation Tanks

Another study involving forty university students proved the theory of higher creativity after a flotation experience, as their standardized test scores increased with just an hour of sensory deprivation.

Also, flotation tank therapy could help you acquire new skills in a shorter amount of time and boost memory. Research shows that during resting states, the brain continuously goes over newly learned skills and compartmentalizes these ideas for long-term use.

Probably most importantly, flotation tank therapy can relieve stress and anxiety, positively affecting blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels and reducing the amount of ‘brain fog’ people commonly experience. In the early 1980s, several psychologists at the Medical College of Ohio performed experiments that analyzed the physiological responses to Restricted Environmental Stimulation Therapy, or REST. Looking at many flotation sessions, the researchers found that blood pressure and stress-related hormones dropped. Moreover, the benefits lasted long after the participant’s flotation experience. In 2005, a meta-analysis further confirmed that flotation reduced stress more effectively than other popular methods such as relaxation exercises, biofeedback, or relaxing on the couch.

After seeing positive results from these studies, researchers wanted to see whether flotation could help patients with stress-related disorders. Flotation tank therapy was used as the primary treatment for disorders such as hypertension, headaches, insomnia, and rheumatoid arthritis; these studies showed positive effects in small sample sizes. Those suffering from severe chronic pain benefited from weekly REST sessions as well: their pain levels decreased, their sleep improved dramatically, and they reported feeling more vibrant and less anxious.

Final Thoughts on Trying Sensory Deprivation

If you’d like to see how sensory deprivation can benefit you, watch this video of first-timers experiencing it for themselves!

15 Things Introverts Do Best

April 10, 2016 by Kristen Lawrence

Do you count yourself among the introverts of the world?

According to a 1998 National Representative Sample by the Myers-Briggs organization, 50% of the population identifies as introverts. That means you have likely met an introvert at some point in your life, and though they make up a considerable portion of the population, we live in a highly extroverted world. In business, politics, or social gatherings, extroverts tend to take center stage, while introverts prefer to work behind the scenes.

Introverts are highly misunderstood; they might come across as rude, stand-offish, aloof, or just unfriendly in our society. However, introverts draw their energy from within rather than from other people. They require a lot of time alone to recharge, and most people take that as a sign that they don’t want to be bothered and aren’t interested in connecting with others. Introverts love people, but they can get quickly drained from excitement and feel more comfortable in their own company.

Introverts may not be the life of the party, but there are certain things they do better than their extroverted counterparts. We don’t wish to stereotype or rank a whole group of people higher than another but showcase introverts’ strengths and what we can learn from them.

Here are 15 things introverts do best:

1. Listening intently during a conversation.

Introverts care about what other people say (at least, when they talk about brilliant, exciting topics), so they tune into the conversation with every ounce of their being. They don’t just hear what you say – they ask questions to gain understanding, look you in the eye, and make sure you’ve finished what you have to say before responding. They talk less than they listen, but this is why they make such great people have deep conversations with.

2. Being highly in touch with their feelings.

Introverts are very intuitive people and have a knack for being highly aware of their emotions. They might cancel plans if they feel too tired or not up for socializing. But to them, that means they are listening to their inner voice. They don’t apologize for their feelings; they go along with it.

3. Easily picking up on the emotions of others.

In addition to knowing exactly how they feel at all times, introverts can read anyone like an open book. They have an uncanny ability to feel what others think and to empathize with them.

4. Taking time for themselves.

Introverts take a day or two out of each week to recharge, pamper themselves, and truly make themselves feel like the king or queen they are. They don’t apologize for prioritizing self-care and self-love because they know this is essential for thriving in today’s hectic world.

5. Learning to cultivate a healthy relationship with themselves.

Introverts gain their energy from being alone, which gives them plenty of time to know themselves inside and out. They might struggle at times with self-esteem, but at the end of the day, they know that their relationship with themselves is of utmost importance and try to have a healthy one.

6. Making friends with any animal.

Introverts naturally gravitate towards non-human animals, most likely for two reasons: 1) They don’t talk, which eliminates the most challenging component of a relationship with humans. 2) They are cuddly and fuzzy (well, most of them that humans would interact with, anyway), so introverts see this as comforting and healing.

7. Engaging in deep conversation.

If you want small talk, you’d better forget about connecting with an introvert. While introverts can fake the small talk, this isn’t their area of expertise. These people thrive on connecting with people much more profoundly, which means you will never get bored around an introvert.

8. Thinking before they speak.

Introverts mull over what they want to say before speaking and listen to the other person in its entirety before they even begin to formulate a response. This is why some people think introverts are not as good at talking as extroverts since it takes them much longer to gather their thoughts. However, this means they make sure they say the right thing before letting the words leave their lips.

9. Realizing the power of spending time in nature.

Introverts love nature – it provides time for quiet reflection, away from the noise and chaos of modern living. They don’t have to think about talking to people, going to a crowded party, or asking them to step outside their comfort zone. They can be for a while, and they realize its importance.

10. Not being afraid to get creative.

Introverts are naturally creative people. They connect with the arts, reading, innovation, and anything else that requires imagination. While some lean more toward the scientific side of life, they also play an essential role in society.

11. Going within for answers.

Introverts don’t look outside themselves for answers to life’s questions because they know the only place they can indeed find what they need is inside their own heart.

12. Knowing when they do and don’t want to socialize.

Since introverts are highly connected to themselves and their emotions, they have gotten used to the cues their mind and body give them when it’s time to leave a party early or when they don’t feel like going out.

13. Leaving a party early if they feel like it.

As we said, introverts are experts at politely excusing themselves from social events. After a few hours of socializing, it’s about time for some Netflix and ice cream.

14. Using the weekend to recharge.

Unlike extroverts, who probably pack their weekends full of social activities, introverts use this time to recharge themselves for the week ahead. This way, they can feel rejuvenated for the work or school week.

15. Knowing how to pace themselves.

If introverts go out for something one day, they will probably give themselves a couple of days to recharge before going out again. This doesn’t mean they’re antisocial – it just means they require more time alone than they do with others.

How to Tell If You’re an Introvert, Extrovert, or Ambivert

Do you know which personality type you have? Introverts get their energy from being alone, extroverts derive happiness from being with others, and ambiverts are a mix of the two. Below, we’ll go over a few traits of each personality type, and you can decide which one describes you best.

Traits of an Introvert

Enjoys having a few close friends. Studies confirm that introverts are happiest around a small group of friends. They prefer deep bonds with people over superficial relationships and will take time getting to know someone before diving into a friendship. They’re cautious with who they call a friend, but they want someone they can trust and connect with on a deep level.
Prefers being home over going out. Introverts are homebodies most of the time, according to research. They like low-key environments without a lot of excitement and stimulation. At home, they can read a book, draw, write, or whatever other activity tickles their fancy. When they’re out in public, however, their friends may choose a loud, noisy environment that quickly annoys them. Introverts will hang out with friends occasionally, but they still prefer the solitude and peace of home.
Thinks before they act. Introverts deliberate about a decision for a while before acting on it. Instead of jumping headfirst into something, they want to pour over the details and double-check what they’re doing. They’re known for being observant and mindful of their choices, preferring to wait before making their move.
Loves spending time alone. If you haven’t guessed yet, introverts jump for joy at the next chance to spend time by themselves. When they have a few days off work, you can catch them relaxing at home instead of hitting the bars and clubs. They thrive off low-key activities where they can recharge their batteries and take a break from the chaos.
Avoids large crowds and noisy environments when possible. Introverts steer clear of domains that don’t resonate with their spirit. They enjoy quiet places like bookstores, coffee shops, or nature rather than malls and clubs. They don’t have a problem hanging out with friends at a bar occasionally – they need a few days to recharge afterward.
Prefers to listen rather than talk. If introverts are known for anything, it’s their ability to listen and understand someone on a deep level. They like when others talk about themselves since it takes the pressure off and allows them to listen. Introverts usually are more empathetic than extroverts and enjoy getting to know others on an intimate level.
Processes feelings internally rather than talking about them. Introverts also aren’t keen on revealing their deepest, darkest secrets and innermost feelings. They tend to have powerful emotions, so they don’t want to feel vulnerable, even with close friends. So, don’t get offended if your introvert best friend needs time to herself; she’s probably just working through something and needs some space.

Traits of an Extrovert

Extroverts don’t like being alone. Unlike introverts, extroverts can’t stand being by themselves. Since they get energy from other people, they need frequent social engagement to feel happy. As people with high energy, they feel their best when they can converse, laugh, and share ideas with others.
They’re more likely to talk about their problems aloud. Whereas introverts internally process emotions, extroverts often have no problem sharing theirs. They usually have no filter and are known for being straightforward, honest people. Since they like to talk more than listen, it’s easy to spot an extrovert in a crowd.
Extroverts are known for being friendly and outgoing. You can also tell an extrovert apart from an introvert since they’re more approachable. Their charismatic, friendly demeanor gives them a certain magnetism that people feel drawn to. It’s probably their cheerfulness that makes them attractive to others more than anything else.
They’re sometimes impulsive and “leap before they look.” Extroverts usually make decisions on the fly and are known for their spontaneity. They go by their emotions, so they will follow that gut instinct without hesitation if it feels right.
Extroverts love group activities. This personality type enjoys group outings instead of going places alone. Frankly, they need someone to chat with while doing errands as they tend to get bored by themselves. We don’t blame them!

Traits of an Ambivert

Enjoys others but also needs solitude. Ambiverts can act outgoing in a crowd but tend to lose energy after a while. They may need several days to recharge following a night out, just like an introvert.
Can act outgoing in the right setting. Since ambiverts are chameleons, they can switch their personality depending on the environment. If they’re around introverts, they will act more withdrawn and low-key. Around extroverts, they’ll appear more outgoing and friendly.
Can work in teams or independently. An ambivert can work just as well alone or with others in a work or school setting. They’re comfortable taking on assignments alone, but they don’t mind sharing the burden with a team.
Processes feelings both internally and aloud. Ambiverts don’t hide their feelings from others, especially close friends or family. However, they take time to process how they feel internally before sharing it with anyone else.

Final Thoughts on the Strengths of Introverts

Every personality type brings something to the table, whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in the middle. Most people fall somewhere on this spectrum, and very few people are true introverts or extroverts. However, if you lean more toward introversion, you have certain strengths specific to your personality.

For instance, introverts tend to listen better than extroverts, getting to know people on a deep level. They’re also highly empathetic and have remarkable intuition, which helps guide them through life. Introverts take their time making decisions, preferring to move slowly and steadily so no detail gets overlooked. This makes them valuable in the workplace since they can make sound decisions for their team or company. Introverts have a quiet, humble power about them that is hard to deny once you get to know them.

This 5 Minute Massage You Can Do Yourself Relieves Stress And Anxiety

April 10, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Do you experiency stress and anxiety? Perhaps a massage could help you return to a place of calm and peace.

“You can pay me in back massages. That’s my kind of currency, and you’re in arrears.” – The article writer’s brother to his wife

Hopefully, this quote (which is true) got a few chuckles from our audience. We all may not agree on everything, but pretty much everyone agrees that massages are awesome. By the way, the brother’s wife often demands repayment in back massages as well.

On a more serious note, and from a wellness perspective, it is interesting that we are witness to a dramatic shift in modern medicine to more holistic approaches. This is particularly true with acupressure (not acupuncture, the use of needles to relieve pain), a practice that was developed over 50 centuries ago in Asia.

These techniques we’ll show here include many such acupressure techniques and are both effective and practical. The practices described are not only great for relieving emotional distress, but helps to relieve pain and tension, strengthen the immune system, and improve blood circulation.

Different types of holistic therapy, including massages, have even been reported to help one with past emotional traumas. For those seeking to improve their libido, massages are helpful in enhancing their sex drive.

Massages not only feel tremendous, but they’re useful in reducing stress – both in body and in mind. The techniques we’re going to discuss here are intended to help relieve stress and anxiety, two emotions that nearly everyone is familiar with. However, other techniques are also described that help alleviate a number of different ailments. This helps to segue into the next point of these exercises – to connect both body and mind.

The History of Massage for Anxiety and Other Concerns

Chinese practitioners, in addition to a number of others, believe in an inseparable mind and body connection. While the five techniques described have “different” purposes (affected areas of the body), the cumulative result is a notable improvement in mood, including the alleviation of stress, anxiety, tension and a host of other psychological and physical benefits.

In other words, when performing these exercises, try to focus more on overall well-being of body and mind rather than relief of “separate” ailments.

It is our sincere hope that the technique is useful and practical in our reader’s everyday lives.

Instructionally, to “apply pressure” indicates the use of fingers, thumb, palms, knuckles and sides of the hand. Ensure that when you apply pressure you are firm., but not so firm that you inflict pain.

When practicing the techniques described, apply pressure to noted areas over a three minute interval unless otherwise noted.

This 5 Minute Massage You Can Do Yourself Relieves Stress, Anxiety, and a Host of Other Health Issues

Technique 1 (for relief of nausea):

Locate the point of the arm three finger-lengths up from the forearm beginning at the wrist. In this spot, apply a firm amount of pressure by rotating the tip of the thumb for about 2 to 3 minutes.

Technique 2 (for relief of both stress and tension):

The next are is located in the webbed area of the hand, between the thumb and index finger. Using the opposite hand’s thumb and index finger, apply firm pressure on both sides of the webbing for about 2 to 3 minutes while deep breathing.

Technique 3 (for improved energy and alleviation of exhaustion):

In the shoulder well, also known as the trapezius area, apply firm pressure by “pinching” the area halfway between the shoulder and base of the neck. In Chinese medicine, it is believed that massaging this area help to improve Qi (energy) flow. Perform the motion for about 2 minutes and switch to the other side.

Technique 4 (for increased blood flow and relaxation):

In an area located approximately two finger-widths above where the arms meet the chest (around the rotator cuff area), apply firm pressure. This will help to increase blood flow and invoke feelings of relaxation.

Step 5 (for relief of insomnia, stiffness, and exhaustion):

The final area is located one finger-width below the base of the skull on either side of the spine. The best practice for applying firm pressure in this area is to wrap the fingers around the back of the skull and use the thumbs to apply pressure. Stimulate this area while taking deep breaths and closing the eyes. The massaging at this location is said to help with relieving exhaustion, stiffness and insomnia.

6 Reasons To Eat Chocolate Every Day

April 9, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Most people love to eat chocolate. Simply thinking about the number of different products that include chocolate as an ingredient is quite astonishing. These products exist because people appreciate the addition of chocolate flavoring wherever they can find it.

“After about 20 years of marriage, I’m finally starting to scratch the surface of what women want. And I think the answer lies somewhere between conversation and chocolate.” – Mel Gibson, American Actor, Producer, and Multi-Award-Winning Performer

While not bringing along anything of particular insight into this article, Gibson’s quote is no less truthful (or funny). Contrary to popular opinion, chocolate isn’t necessarily unhealthy. Certainly, some candy bars and other chocolate products are laden with sugar and are not a beneficial addition to any diet. That being the case, some specific types of chocolate – especially of the dark variety – do have health benefits that are worth considering.

In fact, the health benefits of consuming chocolate are quite extraordinary. One particular study discovered a link between consuming chocolate and reducing anxiety. Another study discovered that dark chocolate consumption resulted in a decreased appetite; another, a reduction in depressive symptoms. These discoveries alone would be enough for anyone to add a bit of chocolate into their daily diets. However, the benefits of eating chocolate extend beyond these studies.

Here are 6 reasons that we should all have a piece of chocolate everyday:

1. Chocolate enhances your brainpower

Additionally, “math power” and other brain functions are improved by consuming chocolate. According to a study by the U.K’s Northumbria University, subjects that ate chocolate and then waited 90 minutes tested for enhanced mathematical and cognitive aptitude. Experts believe this is due to the antioxidant flavanol, something that’s been shown to expand blood vessels and increase blood flow to the brain.

To achieve such results, it is best to eat chocolates that are dark and bitter, such as baking chocolate and cocoa powder. As a measurement reference, approximately 6 grams of cocoa powder or a 4-ounce chocolate bar with 70 percent cocoa will usually suffice in helping to boost brainpower.

2. Chocolate soothes the gut

Subjects that were tested for high levels of stress hormones were put on a dark chocolate regimen for an indefinite amount of time. However, after just two weeks, samples taken from the patients showed a marked decrease in hormonal levels in the gut related to stress. Particularly, metabolic bacteria in the gut became more active and produced additional healthy bacteria that were then made available to the body. Scientists believe that flavanol and other healthy polyphenols contributed to this noteworthy discovery, which showed chocolate’s positive gut health benefits.

3. Chocolate boosts metabolism

In a more interesting finding, chocolate was discovered to aid in the enhancement of metabolic function. Subjects that ate approximately 10 tablespoons of cocoa powder daily showed a remarkable decrease in insulin levels, followed by a period of weight loss. Flavanol prebiotics are thought to help prevent leaky gut, reduce inflammation, and stimulate metabolic function – three healthy outcomes that are generally indicative of weight loss.

4. Chocolate improves skin health

In one study, women who drank a high-flavanol cocoa drink every day for three months showed a marked increase in blood flow to the epidermis. The results: skin density increased by 16 percent, thickness by 11 percent, moisture by 13 percent, and dryness was reduced by 42 percent! The potent antioxidant and flavanol properties of chocolate are thought to be the primary reasons why skin rejuvenates at such a fast rate.

5. Chocolate increases blood circulation

Scientists tracked the effects of chocolate on cardiovascular health for a period of 10 years, and what they discovered was something of a phenomenon. It is estimated that those who ate chocolate once or twice a week have a 33 percent lower chance of developing heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions. Scientists believe that the powerful antioxidant properties of chocolate enable a type of blood clot barrier that helps in preserving heart health. Once again, it is important to eat the healthier varieties of chocolate: cocoa or dark chocolate that is low in sugar and fat, and high in flavonoids.

6. Chocolate reduces bad cholesterol

People that eat around 3 ounces of dark or high-flavanol chocolate everyday have a more normalized ratio of “good” (HDL) to “bad” (LDL) cholesterol. Admittedly, scientists aren’t quite certain why this is, but it is believed that flavonoids play a particularly important role.

In a supplementary study, scientists discovered that dark chocolate helps elderly people with enhanced cognitive function and increased feelings of serenity. As a conclusion, scientists believe that chocolate’s positive effects on cholesterol levels, thinking capacity and feelings of serenity may be a promising solution, both short- and long-term in care of the elderly.

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10 Reasons to Stop What You’re Doing and Love Yourself Right Now