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10 Brain Tricks That Give You Super Powers

January 20, 2016 by Power of Positivity

The human brain is the last, and greatest, scientific frontier. It is truly an internal cosmos that lies contained within our skulls. – Joel Davis, ‘Mapping the Mind: The Secrets of the Human Brain & How It Works’

Mr. Davis penned these prophetic words in 1997 – seven years after 41^st President George H. Bush declared 1990 “The year of the brain.” Davis’ work was the direct product of a massive amount of research and discovery that had taken place within that seven year span. Despite of the remarkable progress that was made within that timeframe, Davis knew that we had only begun to scratch the surface of this mysterious organ.

However, even he may not have predicted the astonishing advancement that has taken place thus far in the 21^st century. This 2014 quote by Michael Stryker – a renowned neuroscientist at the University of California, San Francisco – says it all:

“I feel really sorry for the people (neuroscientists) who retired five years ago. Neuroscience now is a completely different world from how it used to be.”

Indeed. Consider these fields of scientific discovery and it’s advancements in the last 10 years alone:

– Neurogenetics – doctors can now discover neurological and developmental abnormalities using a simple blood test. This includes testing of fetuses.

– Brain mapping – new advanced and detailed imaging of the brain’s structure.

– Neuroplasticity – the discovery that the human brain’s structure and function is pliable past childhood; most notably, that we can improve intelligence and recover from debilitating injury.

– Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – utilizing CBT to combat anxiety disorders, bulimia, stress, anger and psychosomatic illness.

– Neural implants – cutting-edge research that focuses on the implantation of prosthetic devices in the human brain. Progress has been made with paralytics and may one day help eliminate mental illness.

Many of these incredible advances were prompted by the successful completion of the Human Genome Project in 2003. Given the rapid pace at which these advances were made, many experts’ predictions read like a sci-fi novel: a cure for blindness, the ability to erase memories and Wi-Fi microchip implants.

Despite all of these cutting-edge advancements and futuristic plans, the brain is quite capable at producing some amazing things without them. Scientists have participated in many studies and experiments (some of them noted below) with the specific aim for demonstrating the power of the mind. And some of the results were mind-blowing.

This leads us to 10 ways that we’ve discovered that showcase some of our more interesting brain powers.

Here are 10 tricks that literally give your brain super powers:

1. Our brain can (legally) hallucinate

Well, this brain trick is technically called the Ganzfeld effect, and it works by playing a trick on the mind through reducing sensory input. Some people have reported hearing the voice of a deceased relative or seeing dancing horses. No kidding.

Here are the instructions (required items: a ping pong ball, a radio with headphones, and a red light):

– Tune the radio to a station with static and put on the headphones.

– Cut the ping pong ball in half and tape over each eye.

– Turn on the red light so it’s facing towards the eyes.

– Remain the position for at least a half hour.

2. Raising our eyebrows makes us more creative

According to a study published in the Creativity Research Journal, simply raising our eyebrows can induce creativity. This brain trick is achieved through the activation of our two types of attention – perceptual and conceptual.

Perceptual attention is the type that is responsible for our physical experiences, while conceptual attention relates to our mental processes. Since these two attention faculties are linked, they can be manipulated to produce some interesting effects. When the eyebrows are raised, this results in the stimulation of our perceptual attention. By default, this brain trick also stimulates our conceptual attention, which can result in creative connections that were not present before.

3. Music boosts our immune system

The fact that music reduces cortisol levels in the brain may not be too surprising. What is shocking is the extent to which our brain/body connection can take our favorite tunes and use them to heal our entire immune system.

Our bodies are inseparably linked to the chemical makeup of our brain. By reducing our stress levels, we effectually produce more antibodies to fight off disease and other ailments. Over time, this effect will strengthen as will the body’s ability to resist illness and disease-causing agents.

4. The Apple logo creates divergent thinking

Ever wonder why Steve Jobs created this hallmark of a symbol to represent his brand? Well, we’re not sure if he innately knew that the icon would cause us to “think differently,” but he succeeded regardless. Duke University published this fascinating study that was published in the Journal of Consumer Research.

When the subjects of the study were exposed to Apple’s iconic symbol, the result was an increase in creativity and ingenuity. We’ve now got a “cure” for the creative blues!

5. We’re most productive at the times of day we hate

Most of us have a time of day when we feel at our “peak.” We’re energized, alert and ready to tackle those mundane tasks. Well, here’s science again to tell us we’re wrong.

In a study conducted by the Department of Psychological Science at Albion College and the Department of Psychology at Michigan State University, researchers discovered that our “non-optimal” times are actually ideal for tasks that involve problem solving.

Other published studies have surfaced demonstrating that these non-optimal times are better for creativity and group-related work.

6. Studying music strengthens communication ability

Studying music is widely known for priming the creative juices, but communication skills? According to researchers, the answer is a definitive “Yes!”

More specifically, the practice of studying music strengthens the ability perceive the emotions of others. Musicians are also better at tuning out distractions such as background noise, making them ideal listeners as well. Finally, they’re much more adept at verbalizing their own thoughts and emotions.

7. Mint is a natural cognitive enhancer

With all of the previous discourse on enhancing cognitive ability through technology, medicine and the like, it’s refreshing to find some natural, healthy stuff to help sharpen our senses.

A study at Wheeling Jesuit University reveals that the smell of mint has some powerful mental benefits; among them are improved reasoning, judgment, attention span, memory and conceptualization.

Other studies have demonstrated mint’s positive effect on overall alertness and responsiveness as well.

8. One ear is better than the other (and vice-versa)

Remember that whole “left-brained” and “right-brained” thing? Someone told us at one time or another that logical people predominantly use their left hemisphere while the creative folks use their right. Well, this theory been pretty much debunked. Except for how we interpret sound, that is.

Our right ear is actually better at processing speech, while the left ear is more attuned to music and tone. We’re sure this will come in handy…somewhere. Maybe when the boss is chewing us out or some dreadful music comes on the radio.

9. Touching something makes us want it more

Now we know why retailers have display models for their products – it strengthens the desire to buy. Not only that, but we’re willing to pay more money for something that we’ve physically interacted with.

The reason is that touching or holding something unconsciously creates a sense of ownership. Interestingly, this mindset can even overrule our opinion on whether or not we like or dislike something.

10. Using hand gestures improves memory

Chalk one up for another brain-body connection. This brain trick involves the link between the learning and memory part of the brain and the use of hand gestures. As it happens, we’re more accurate at reciting information when our hands are in motion.

Research has shown that people who are required to remember a significant amount of information are more animated in their gestures. Such physical cues allow memories to surface easier while also naturally improving the effectiveness of their communication.

7 Things That Slow Down Your Metabolism

January 20, 2016 by Power of Positivity

It’s not much of a surprise when we discover that known “healthy” habits and behaviors are unhealthy. Many diet myths, health fads, and “slim wear” have been debunked or rendered useless – or at best, limited – at one time or another. This brings us to our metabolism – the chemical process humans use to obtain energy. The body’s ability to use fat as energy instead of storing it is what most people think of when we say “metabolism.”

A well-functioning metabolism is essential to our waistlines and hips, but it’s much more complex.

Metabolism involves all of the chemical reactions that take place within our cells to keep us alive. Without a healthy metabolism, our cellular bodies could not receive the necessary energy to sustain themselves. In short – we’d die. Fortunately, our bodies do not stop metabolizing unless we effectively stop breathing. Our metabolisms can, however, become unhealthy and damaged.

Metabolism plays a vital role in various parts of our lives. Not only does it impact how our cells use energy; but how well we sleep, our energy levels, our mood, and even plays a role in how well we digest food and absorb nutrients.

The impact of a slower metabolism

An unhealthy metabolism creates different types of physiological effects, such as:

Diabetes
Breathing problems
Lethargy
Cognitive decline
Unstable blood sugar levels
Organ failure

What causes an unhealthy metabolism? Well, a few different things. It’s quite important that we minimize our exposure to stress, as “stress hormones” such as cortisol and adrenaline counteract the healthy function of our metabolic systems.

So, before we get into the seven “healthy” habits that harm our metabolism, please remember to minimize stress levels and get regular exercise. These are probably the two best things we can practice for a healthy metabolism.

Here are 7 things that slow down your metabolism:

1. Conforming to a diet

More weight loss products and weight loss systems are on the market now than ever. Want to know why? Well, then follow the money, of course – $6.3 billion. That’s the amount that weight loss company reported making in 2015 alone. Americans climbing rate of obesity – combined with a serious market opportunity – means “Ca-Ching,” at least for these peddlers of the “latest, greatest” weight loss fad.

Despite of their proliferation, its best of abstain from a diet regimen altogether. The reason is that the majority of diets focus on entirely on restriction, not alteration. In other words, diets don’t teach us how to make subtle dietary changes (i.e. more protein, less carbs); they instead focus on eliminating – or severely reducing – food that provides fuel to our bodies. Low-carb diets are notorious for this practice. Instead, focus on making lifestyle changes for the long-term.

2. Hydrating on just water

Don’t get it twisted…hydration is critical. However, the whole “drink eight full glasses of water each and every day” advice is misleading. Allow us to explain.

The body is a complex system that relies upon a steady stream of healthy vitamins, nutrients and other elements. Unfortunately, overhydrating has led to the misbelief that the gallons of water we’ve ingested have supplied what we need (thank the weight loss experts). As healthy as water is, it is not always the best source of hydration for us.

Instead, seek to get a bit of variety. For example, mix some O.J. with water and add a dash of sea salt to get some much-needed electrolytes. If it’s only water, mix in a lime or a lemon.

3. Over-restricting sodium intake

Yes, it is important to keep an eye on our sodium intake. The American Heart Association recommends 1,500 mg, which may still be high. However, sodium plays a key role in maintaining our metabolic rate, lowering stress hormones, and aiding digestion.

A better approach is to limit salt intake via processed foods, which are unhealthy for various reasons. Most of us overeat salt as a direct result of processed foods. Instead, make eating wholesome and non-processed foods a part of your lifestyle.

4. Overeating raw vegetables

As with the previous two unhealthy practices, this must be read carefully. We’re talking only about raw veggies here. Simply lightly steaming vegetables most of the time will render this a non-factor.

Vegetables are an essential source of vitamins and nutrients. They’re also deficient in calories and sodium; most contain no fat. But raw vegetables contain a high amount of cellulose – a fiber that is actually used in making paper and paperboard! Our digestive systems are not meant to handle large quantities of this compound, which can also lead to various digestive problems, creating a slow metabolism.

5. Too much cardio

Part of this is a societal trend. We seem to place more emphasis on sweating all over the elliptical machine or a treadmill as opposed to practicing various exercises.

The truth is there are some health benefits available in other types of exercise that aren’t available in cardio. Besides, High-intensity interval training (HIIT) can give us most of the benefits of an hour-long run without all the added stress hormones.

Muscle-building is also great for achieving upper and core body strength, boosting our moods, improving brain function, etc. The cool thing is that is that it can be a variety, too: weightlifting, bodyweight training, and yoga are all considered muscle-building exercises.

Also, consider mixing in a bike ride, nature walk or hike. This allows us to get in a cardio fix while giving the body a bit of a break so we don’t slow down our metabolism.

6. Overloading on fiber

Fiber is an important nutrient for our bodies, especially in the digestive system. However, too much fiber contains elements that can prevent the absorption of essential nutrients, thus slowing down your metabolism.

Also, eating too much fiber when having digestive problems can create even more complications. This occurs when there is too much gut flora – microorganisms (i.e., bacteria) that result in digestive problems such as gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhea and even dangerous weight loss. When we ingest too much fiber, it feeds this gut flora and further complicates the issue, creating a slow metabolism.

Mass General doctors say short workouts can increase your metabolic health.

7. Eating too much “muscle meat”

Muscle meat is the stuff that many weight trainers trying to add muscle eat a lot of – chicken breast, chicken wings, beef patties, etc. Side note: if these meats are farmed from quality sources, such as grass-fed cows and locally-bred chickens, that’s a much healthier option.

The problem with ingesting too much of this “muscle meat” is not a recipe for a balanced protein intake. Instead, try making some tasty sauce, soup or stew containing a variety of vegetables containing critical amino acids – something these meats generally lack.

Science Explains How Much Water Your Body Needs To Lose Weight

January 20, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Water is an important element for so many different reasons. Let’s start with us: we’re made up of about 50-75% water, depending on body composition. Water is responsible for many different body functions – regulating body temperature, helping lose weight, carrying oxygen and nutrients to the cells, dissolving minerals and nutrients, aiding digestion, protecting body organs and tissues, and lubricating joints, among others.

Oh, and it increases metabolism. Just in case you wanted to know if aqua can help you lose some stubborn pounds – the answer is a resounding “YES!”

According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, drinking 17 ounces of water increases metabolic rate by 30% in healthy men and women. The maximum effect was reached 30-40 minutes after the subjects drank.

Let’s look at another study that highlights water’s weight loss properties. Researchers from the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom conducted a 12-week experiment in which 84 obese adults received basic weight loss advice and were assigned to one of two groups. The first group was instructed to drink about sixteen ounces of water half an hour before their meals, while the second group had to imagine their stomachs full before each meal. At its conclusion, the experiment revealed that the first group lost three pounds more than the second.

Healthful Benefits of Drinking Water to Help Lose Weight

Water is life, and clean water is health. – Audrey Hepburn

This is much-welcomed news to those who have the desire to lose a few pounds (dang near everyone), but we should be drinking an adequate amount of water – from six to ten cups daily – regardless. Before we delve further into the relationship between water intake and weight loss, let’s briefly list H₂O’s other health benefits:

Helps keep us alert
Prevents headaches
Boosts cognitive abilities
Protects our heart

If you are indeed among the multitudes that is seeking to lose a few pounds, proper hydration needs to be a key factor. Aside from nourishing the body before, during and after any physical activity, we should be tracking our water intake throughout the day. This is very important, as the proper amount of water consumption can assure our metabolism is operating at capacity while suppressing the desire to overeat.

We will provide the formula for calculating optimal water intake and a basic numerical breakdown to serve as a quick reference point.

Please note: it’s unnecessary to be exacting in your water intake. Be as accurate as possible within reason. Although, if you feel better busting out the water beaker, feel free! Measuring cups could be beneficial, however.

First, here are the formula steps and a quick explanation on why you need this much water to lose weight effectively:

Step 1: Get your weight

Obviously, it’s important to have an accurate number depicting weight in determining optimal water consumption. This is necessary since, as the pounds or kilograms increase, water intake will increase accordingly.

If the numbers on the scale show a decimal, round down if it is a .4 or lower; round up if it is a .5 or higher. If using an analog scale, get the most accurate reading possible

(Example: 200.4 pounds = 200 pounds. 200.5 is rounded to 201, etc.)

Step 2: Divide your weight in half

If this number includes a decimal, round up. The resulting number is our required water intake in ounces.

(Example: 201 pounds/ 2= 100.5, which is rounded to 101 ounces.)

Step 3: Determine the activity level

The level we physically exert ourselves directly correlates with our water intake. As we exercise or perform anything strenuous, our bodies will naturally expel water, which must be compensated for.

For every thirty minutes of exercise, add sixteen ounces.

Step 4: Calculate water intake

Simply add the numbers derived in steps 2 and 3.

Here’s an example of what the resulting calculation should look like:

Weight: 201 pounds
201/2 = 101 ounces (rounded)
30 minutes of exercise daily = 16 ounces
101 ounces + 16 ounces = 117 ounces (or about 10 12-ounce glasses of water)

Here’s how much water your body needs to lose weight:

Weight Intake # of 12-ounce servings

80 lbs. 40 oz. 3

90 lbs. 45 oz. 4

100 lbs. 50 oz. 4

110 lbs. 55 oz. 5

120 lbs. 60 oz. 5

130 lbs. 65 lbs. 5-6

140 lbs. 70 oz. 6

150 lbs. 75 oz. 6

160 lbs. 80 oz. 7

170 lbs. 85 oz. 7

180 lbs. 90 oz. 8

190 lbs. 95 oz. 8

200 lbs. 100 oz. 8-9

210 lbs. 105 oz. 9

220 lbs. 110 oz. 9

230 lbs. 115 oz. 10

240 lbs. 120 oz. 10

250 lbs. 125 oz. 10-11

Final Thoughts on Drinking Water to Lose Weight

Here are a couple of helpful pointers to help achieve our water intake:

1. Drink two 8-ounce cups of water before every meal. This adds up to 48 ounces.

2. When getting up in the morning and before going to bed, drink one 16-ounce glass to get another 32 ounces.

(Side note: if getting up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom is a concern, drink this additional serving in the morning instead.)

In simply following these two tips, we’ll get 80 ounces of our water intake. This should make it much simpler to reach our daily goal!

These TWO Ingredients Can Eliminate Earwax and Ear Infections

January 20, 2016 by Kristen Lawrence

Earwax is bothersome, and ear infections can be a painful experience and one that you would hope to eliminate from your future health concerns.

Fortunately, some people have had great success with a home remedy with only two natural, safe ingredients that can help reduce the likelihood of ear infections and also remove ear wax buildup.

You most likely already have these two ingredients in your home, so there is no need to go out and buy anything. You’ll probably find these two products in your bathroom and kitchen. Here’s a simple home remedy with only two ingredients that can eliminate earwax buildup and prevent ear infections.

These Two Ingredients Can Eliminate Earwax and Ear Infections

Mix equal parts of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol together for our ear health recipe. Start with a small amount, about a teaspoon of each. Mix them in a small bowl or measuring cup. You can make a more considerable amount and store it for next time, but try it first to see how it works for you.

After mixing these two ingredients, use a clean eyedropper to put about half of the mixture into one ear while you tilt your head to the side. Keep your head tilted and allow the mixture to sit in your ear for one minute. After a minute, tilt your head over the sink to enable the solution to drip out.

Repeat the process with the other half of the healthy ear mixture in your other ear, and again allow it to sit in your ear for one minute. Then tilt your head and drain it out.

Audiologist Dr. Robert L. Martin says that alcohol can dry out the ear, which can cause the skin to crack and bleed. This treatment should be used for those who need to dry out an ear exposed to moisture, not those in a dry environment.

Dr. Martin suggests this treatment twice a day for four days when you know that your ears have been exposed to moisture, for example, after swimming. The ear health remedy can be used twice a week for several months if you have chronically moist ears or are exposed to high humidity.

Earwax prevention

This prevention tool is highly recommended for those who frequently suffer from swimmer’s ear problems or sinus infections that can spread to the ear. The remedy should be used before issues occur, not on an already infected ear.

Conditions that make ear infections more likely include:

Higher outside temperatures
Higher humidity
Exposure to moisture for long periods

Swimmers, those who often get water in their ears during showers or baths, and people who live in hot, humid climates are more likely to develop infections. These warm, moist environments are breeding grounds for fungi and bacteria.

As much as possible, keep your ears dry inside by wearing earplugs when swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving. Avoid tilting your head to let the shower water run into your ear. If water does get into your ear, dry the outer ear with a towel, tilt your head to allow the water to drain out, and carefully use a cotton swab to absorb additional moisture.

Symptoms of an ear infection

Both bacteria and fungus can live in a moist ear. Either of these microbes can be responsible for the pain of an earache and infection. If these symptoms are present, see a medical professional rather than using the vinegar and alcohol treatment. Again, the two-ingredient remedy is meant to prevent ear problems, not treat them. Signs of ear infection include:

Itching
Pain
Tenderness
Hearing loss
A plugged ear feeling
A feeling of the ear having fluid in it

Earwax problems

A buildup of wax inside the ear should not happen naturally because the ear is naturally self-cleaning. To clean the ear, we push earwax into the ear canal with a cotton swab rather than removing it. Symptoms of an earwax buildup are similar to those of infection and include the following:

Dizziness
Ringing in the ear
Itching
Drainage
Decreased hearing
A feeling of a plugged ear
Itchiness
Pain

Healthy ears

Dr. Martin says that the natural ear is self-cleaning, so we should never wash inside the ear canal with soap or water. He says that ear wax is not something you can dissolve with water anyway, so cleaning with water will not be effective.

The symptoms of an ear infection and earwax buildup are similar, so don’t diagnose yourself. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is probably too late for the ear problem prevention recipe.

Protect your hearing and consult with an audiologist or otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) at the first sign of a problem.

Conventional medicine may need to provide a cure before you can use vinegar and alcohol on your ears. To prevent future ear health problems, earplugs can be used for swimmers to keep the ear canal dry.

Besides Removing Earwax, Try These 8 Other Ways to Improve Ear Health

Now that you have one solution to try, what else might help improve your ear health?

1. Wear earplugs when exposed to loud sounds.

According to a report by the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), about 24% of adults aged 20-69 suffer from some degree of noise-induced hearing loss. Those who had on-the-job exposure to loud noise had a higher likelihood of developing audiometric notches. These notches appear in the ears due to prolonged exposure to loud sounds. The report found that loud sounds in the workplace increased the likelihood of “noise” notches in the ears by 2X.

Loud sounds may include chainsaws, lawnmowers, and other types of heavy machinery. Music at clubs and concerts can also induce hearing loss over time. To prevent this, invest in quality earplugs, such as musicians’ earplugs, when exposed to noisy environments. These earplugs have filters that allow a person to hear conversations but reduce dangerous sound levels. If you work in a factory or other industrial site, your company will probably provide or recommend special industrial earplugs.

2. Turn your volume down when using headphones.

According to the World Health Organization, over 1 billion people worldwide risk noise-induced hearing loss from booming music and other recreational sounds. When listening to music on personal audio devices, avoid using earbuds next to the eardrum. Instead, wear headphones that fit over the ears to reduce your noise exposure. Also, the WHO recommends keeping the volume level below 85 decibels for safe listening.

For safe listening at concerts and other venues, they also set these guidelines for implementation:

a maximum average sound level of 100 decibels;
live monitoring and recording of sound levels using calibrated equipment by designated staff;
optimizing venue acoustics and sound systems to ensure enjoyable sound quality and safe listening;
making personal hearing protection available to audiences, including instructions on use;
access to quiet zones for people to rest their ears and decrease the risk of hearing damage; and
provision of training and information to staff.

3. Exercise frequently.

Exercise benefits every part of your mind and body, including the ears. During a workout, blood flow to the ear increases. This helps the tiny hair cells in the inner ear translate sound into signals, which get transmitted to your brain. Since the hairs don’t regrow, it can lead to permanent hearing loss if the hair cells get damaged. So, in addition to keeping the volume down on your earphones, it’s also essential to engage in regular exercise. This will improve your hearing since you’ll have increased blood flow and, therefore, oxygen to keep the ears working optimally.

Also, the increased blood flow will keep blood pressure down, a primary driver of hearing loss.

4. Manage stress levels.

According to a 2018 study, otologic symptoms such as dizziness and tinnitus have been linked to emotional stress. Prolonged stress can therefore make tinnitus worse. Researchers believe tinnitus acts as a warning sign when reacting to an external stressor. Your body then goes into fight-or-flight mode, a survival instinct that increases adrenaline and cortisol in the body.

Experts believe that when the blood flow travels into your inner ear, it can lead to tinnitus symptoms.

5. Get regular checkups.

When you go for a doctor’s visit, ask him or her to perform a hearing screening just in case. Hearing loss doesn’t happen immediately, so many people can go years without noticing the difference. That’s why it’s essential to have annual hearing screenings so that doctors can alert you to the warning signs of early hearing loss. Additionally, consider asking about ear care services, such as Ear Wax Removal Sutton Coldfield, to ensure your ears are in optimal condition.

Untreated hearing loss reduces the quality of life and can even cause depression, dementia, and heart disease.

6. Stop smoking.

According to research from the University of Manchester in the UK, smoking increases the risk of hearing loss by 28%. The risk for hearing loss was even more pronounced in those who smoked more often. Experts believe smoking contributes to hearing loss because of chemicals in cigarettes that constrict blood vessels. This prevents oxygen from traveling to your inner ear and keeps hair cells in the cochlea functioning correctly. In addition, nicotine can disrupt neurotransmitters in the auditory nerve, causing them to mishear sounds.

7. Take medications only as needed.

Certain medications, such as aspirin, NSAIDs, or acetaminophen, can sometimes result in hearing loss. Make sure to take these medications when needed, and avoid taking them daily for prolonged periods.

8. Wear hearing aids if necessary.

If you’ve been prescribed hearing aids to help with hearing loss, it’s vital to wear them during waking hours. The hearing aids work by amplifying sound and converting it to a digital signal, which travels into the ear. Then, it makes its way into the brain’s auditory region, which processes it into audible sound. Untreated hearing loss can cause this part of the brain to shrink from lack of use, making hearing nearly impossible.

Hearing aids improve your health in other ways as well. A 2019 study examined the positive effects of hearing aids in participants’ first three years of wearing them. In people with newly-diagnosed hearing loss, hearing aids reduced dementia risk, fall-related injuries, and anxiety or depression by 18, 13, and 11 percentage points, respectively.

Final Thoughts on Preventing Earwax and Ear Infections

Luckily, preventing earwax and ear infections requires only two ingredients that you probably already have at home. A mixture of white vinegar and rubbing alcohol can help remove moisture from the ears, especially after swimming. Using this treatment twice per day for four days reduces the risk of developing infections or earwax buildup.

Of course, the ears clean themselves naturally, so you should only use the treatment after swimming or for sinus infections. Other ways to keep the ears healthy include regular checkups, exercising, managing stress, and keeping the volume down on audio devices. In addition, make sure to avoid smoking or taking aspirin frequently, as both have been linked to hearing loss.

What You Need To Know About The Planetary Alignment on January 20th

January 20, 2016 by Power of Positivity

For the first time in a decade, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will be in planetary alignment beginning tomorrow, January. They will remain this way through February 20.

The best part is they will be visible to the naked eye!

According to Dr. Alan Duffy, a research fellow at Swinburne University in Melbourne, Australia, people in the Northern Hemisphere can view this phenomenon by 6:30 AM Eastern Daylight Time. He said to look toward the south sometime before sunrise for the best viewing experience.

Dr. Duffy said this alignment is a “quirk of the universe,” as they have different yearly cycles. As rare as this planetary alignment is, you certainly won’t want to miss it!

Dr. Tanya Hill, a senior curator at the Melbourne Planetarium, explained that another planetary alignment would occur in August. But it won’t occur again until October 2018. Unfortunately, distant Uranus, Pluto, and Neptune won’t appear to us in the sky, at least without a telescope. However, if you have a keen eye, you might spot Uranus close to the horizon.

Jupiter and Venus will appear most vividly in the sky. However, Mars should be fairly easy to spot with its bright red glow.

Some tips for seeing the planetary alignment are to go out of the city where the horizon is clear and avoid any place with trees or buildings obstructing your view. Also, hold your arm up straight from the horizon to the moon, and the planets should fall along that line. If you don’t see the planetary alignment the first time, try going out on a less cloudy night if possible.

Another interesting thing to note is that the planets will appear in a different order than they do from the sun. Starting from the eastern horizon, Mercury and Venus will appear first, then Saturn, then Mars, and finally, Jupiter.

At first, Mercury will be hard to spot since it will sit very low near the horizon. But in February, it will rise higher in the sky, making it easier to view.

While you will have to wake up quite early to enjoy the planetary alignment, this rare event in our beautiful sky will make you grateful to have rolled out of bed an hour or two earlier than usual!

12 Telling Signs Someone Is Attracted to You

January 19, 2016 by Power of Positivity

Are you reading these signs of attraction correctly? When you’re interested in someone romantically, you’ve probably been watching them closely for signs that they are attracted to you.

Flirting can be fun. But usually, you are hoping that the object of your attraction will notice your efforts and they will return your interest. If you’ve been putting your best foot forward and making obvious moves. But if your potential romantic partner is less obvious, you may wonder if they are interested in you.

Reading the signs of attraction can be complicated. In a study of nonverbal attraction cues in opposite-sex couples, researchers found that signals can have multiple meanings, which is on purpose. For example, when it comes to signs of attraction from a woman, laughter can send a playful message, or its meaning can be modified by another body language. Researchers say that laughter from a woman, together with its accompanying body postures and movements, can mean anything from sexual solicitation to aversion, depending on which and how many different signals are used.

In the same study, men seem to communicate interest in women during laughter with only a few body language signals, such as body orientation and dominant postures. There are not so many subconscious signs of male attraction — men tend to be more straightforward in their flirtation. Unless they are shy, if they are attracted to you, they will make sure that you know.

Here are 6 signs that will tell you whether that man or woman you’ve had your eye on is also attracted to you.

SIGNS OF ATTRACTION: 12 TELLING SIGNS SOMEONE IS ATTRACTED TO YOU

SIX SIGNS THAT A WOMAN IS ATTRACTED TO YOU

As mentioned, when it comes to women, generally speaking, the signs of attraction may be a little more subtle. Rather than direct, obvious body movements, they may show telltale signs in smaller ways. Here are a few of the most common signs of attraction from a woman.

1. SUSTAINED EYE CONTACT

Have you exchanged some long, smoldering glances? That is a good sign that she’s attracted to you. Maybe you turned your head toward her and caught her watching you, only to see her quickly turn away in embarrassment? Another very positive sign of attraction.

Maybe you had a conversation over the file cabinet, and neither looked at the file drawers? That is another good sign. Direct, sustained eye contact of more than ten seconds is a sign that she is attracted to you. Her eyes may briefly break away from your gaze to check out your body as you talk, which is also a good sign.

2. TOUCHING

When a woman is interested in you, she will find a way to touch you often. It could be a sign of attraction if she briefly touches your shoulders or your knee as you sit near each other. If you find that her touch lingers longer than might be normal or that she finds excuses to touch you when most people wouldn’t, she may send you some nonverbal cues that she is attracted to you.

3. LAUGHING

Giggling, especially with eye contact and touching, are good signs that a woman is attracted to you. Laughter is a great way to break the ice and get you in a happy, positive, and receptive mood. It means she notices your interest in her. If a woman doesn’t find something funny, she’s not likely to laugh, so if you say something that you don’t think was necessarily very funny and get a big response, that may hint that she is interested or flirting with you.

4. HIGHER VOCAL TONE

Women tend to use a higher vocal pitch when interested in a potential romantic partner. Their voices get higher in acoustical tone, not in volume when they find an attractive mate. By changing the pitch of her voice, a woman is signaling her feminine traits to the object of her affection. This could be a telltale sign for some people, particularly if you notice that her voice is higher than her normal pitch.

5. TOUCHING HER FACE

She might push her hair back behind her ear, showing you some skin on her neck. This is a gesture of trust and also one that may indicate interest in you. She might cover her mouth when she laughs or put her hand up to her mouth when she is quiet. These hand gestures may just be out of nerves, but they could also be good signs that she is attracted to you.

6. TURNING TOWARD YOU WITH HER LEGS

Facing you is a good sign, but that could be a courteous way of giving you attention when talking. If her legs and feet are all turned toward you, especially in combination with some of the above signals, it is a good sign that she is attracted to you. This signal is one to look for in a group setting. If there are several people, but she is facing toward you or only talking to you, this can signify attraction.

SIX SIGNS THAT A MAN IS ATTRACTED TO YOU:

Again, the signs of male attraction tend to be more apparent, as most societies encourage men to speak their minds and make the first move. But if you are dealing with a shy guy or maybe just one who wants to be respectful, here are some more subconscious signs of male attraction.

1. GROOMING

Does he straighten his tie, smooth his hair, or buttons his coat when you appear? Then it’s a good sign that he is attracted to you. Before you came into view, he checked for food in his teeth, popped a breath mint, and applied a splash of cologne. Especially if a guy does not typically put extra care into his appearance, this can be a telling sign of attraction.

2. ATTRACTING ATTENTION

The term ‘peacocking’ describes how men display their attraction to someone. This is a showy behavior that is designed to attract your attention. They are saying “look at me” with their behavior.

The behavior could be anything from wearing showy clothing, like a brightly colored tie, to challenging other men to physical contests, like arm wrestling. Just like a male bird tries to make a show for the female, you can tell he is attracted to you if he makes these showy gestures with you around.

3. STANDING STRAIGHTER

He slouched until you showed up. Then he sat up straight or stood a little taller when you came around. He probably pushed his chest out and sucked in his gut too. These body posture adjustments to look more attractive are a good sign.

4. FIDGETING

He can’t sit still when you’re around. If he touches his watch repeatedly or buttons and unbuttons his jacket or brushes his hair away from his face repeatedly, it’s a good sign that he’s attracted to you.

5. FLEXING

You notice his arms bend, he balls his hands into fists, and he appears to be tightening his chest and arm muscles for you. He’s putting on a display of his best masculine traits to attract your approval.

6. OPEN FACIAL EXPRESSIONS

Raised eyebrows, open lips, wide eyes, and smiling are all open facial expressions. Combine these with sustained eye contact and his eyes checking out your body. That is a sure sign that he is attracted to you.

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Here are 10 tricks that literally give your brain super powers:

1. Our brain can (legally) hallucinate

2. Raising our eyebrows makes us more creative

3. Music boosts our immune system

4. The Apple logo creates divergent thinking

5. We’re most productive at the times of day we hate

6. Studying music strengthens communication ability

7. Mint is a natural cognitive enhancer

8. One ear is better than the other (and vice-versa)

9. Touching something makes us want it more

10. Using hand gestures improves memory

The impact of a slower metabolism

Here are 7 things that slow down your metabolism:

1. Conforming to a diet

2. Hydrating on just water

3. Over-restricting sodium intake

4. Overeating raw vegetables

5. Too much cardio

6. Overloading on fiber

7. Eating too much “muscle meat”

Healthful Benefits of Drinking Water to Help Lose Weight

First, here are the formula steps and a quick explanation on why you need this much water to lose weight effectively:

Step 1: Get your weight

Step 2: Divide your weight in half

Step 3: Determine the activity level

Step 4: Calculate water intake

Here’s how much water your body needs to lose weight:

Final Thoughts on Drinking Water to Lose Weight

These Two Ingredients Can Eliminate Earwax and Ear Infections

Earwax prevention

Symptoms of an ear infection

Earwax problems

Healthy ears

Besides Removing Earwax, Try These 8 Other Ways to Improve Ear Health

1. Wear earplugs when exposed to loud sounds.

2. Turn your volume down when using headphones.

3. Exercise frequently.

4. Manage stress levels.

5. Get regular checkups.

6. Stop smoking.

7. Take medications only as needed.

8. Wear hearing aids if necessary.

Final Thoughts on Preventing Earwax and Ear Infections

SIGNS OF ATTRACTION: 12 TELLING SIGNS SOMEONE IS ATTRACTED TO YOU

SIX SIGNS THAT A WOMAN IS ATTRACTED TO YOU

1. SUSTAINED EYE CONTACT

2. TOUCHING

3. LAUGHING

4. HIGHER VOCAL TONE

5. TOUCHING HER FACE

6. TURNING TOWARD YOU WITH HER LEGS

SIX SIGNS THAT A MAN IS ATTRACTED TO YOU:

1. GROOMING

2. ATTRACTING ATTENTION

3. STANDING STRAIGHTER

4. FIDGETING

5. FLEXING

6. OPEN FACIAL EXPRESSIONS

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