9 Reasons Being Alone Is Good For You

November 9, 2015 by Power of Positivity

It seems as if we spend so much time filling our days with activities that finding downtime and time to be alone is fleeting.

Some people feel guilty when they are alone. On the other hand, some don’t like being alone. Still, others think being alone is the same as being lonely. But being alone is necessary for our personal growth and development.

Being alone and being lonely are two different things. Being alone is something we do to fuel our soul and energize our life while being lonely is living a life that disconnects us from others. One fosters personal growth, and the other keeps us stuck.

We’re so busy scheduling our days that finding time to be alone can be a struggle. And it’s not just adults that need alone time. It’s our children too. A study authored by expert Reed W. Larson showed, “Adolescents … who spent an intermediate amount of their time alone were better adjusted than those who spent little or a great deal of time alone.”

Any activity you can do with others, you can do alone. We are so used to inviting friends and families on our outings that we rarely allow ourselves to do things ourselves. Be spontaneous, and the next time there is a desire to go to the movies, out to dinner, or even do some shopping, opt to do it alone.

It might seem odd at first, and that’s okay. Suppose we allow ourselves to observe and process what is happening without judgment. In that case, we will gain a critical perspective and some valuable information to help us understand our needs and wants.

There is a movement in the world highlighting the importance of slowing down and enjoying the moment. There is no better way to slow down and become more mindful of the world around you than spend some time alone.

9 Reasons Being Alone is Good For Your Soul

Are you not convinced? There are plenty of reasons why spending time alone is good for us. First, it forces us to slow down and become more observant. Here are a few more.

1. It clears the mind.

There is a lot of chatter in our lives. The media, our colleagues, friends, and family all contribute to how we form our opinions by expressing theirs. When we take the time to be alone, we can clear our minds of all the noise and allow our inner voice to become apparent.

2. It fosters creativity.

Creativity happens when our mind is free to explore and wander. There aren’t competing thoughts and agendas when we are alone, which allows our minds the freedom to take a journey based on true inspiration.

3. It builds confidence.

Confidence is hard to build with so many outside influences. Being alone allows us to develop our authentic voice based on our values. This voice becomes more assertive and steadfast when we are firmly planted in what matters most to us, not those around us.

4. It encourages independence.

Being comfortable thinking and acting independently of our support network is the key to living our best life. When we spend time alone, we can dream and create goals that allow us to evolve independently of others.

5. It clarifies perceptions.

The perceptions we have come to life based on our experiences and emotions at the moment. When we take the time to remove ourselves from experience and spend time alone processing the events free from the feeling and influence, we gain clarity around the judgments we initially made.

6. It diminishes stress and anxiety.

Stress and anxiety occur because of outside expectations. The importance of those expectations becomes less urgent if we can put some perspective on them, which happens when we spend time alone.

7. It establishes priorities.

It’s vital that we continually assess what’s important to us. The best way to get to know ourselves and what matters most is to spend time alone. Without the competing priorities of everyone around us, we can get honest with ourselves and our true passions.

8. It boosts productivity.

When we’re alone and able to get clear on our dreams, goals, and priorities, excitement bubbles. That excitement is the motivation that propels us into specific actions to support those goals and priorities. It makes us eager to work and gives us the energy to do the things that keep our big plan.

9. It strengthens relationships.

Believe it or not, spending time alone supports and strengthens the relationships with the people most matter to us. When we have the time to understand and value ourselves, we can better understand and respect others.

7 Activities When It’s Time For Being Alone

1. Meditate

It provides the perfect opportunity to go within when you have some downtime. Meditation creates a pathway from the little self to the Infinite, where you can honestly know yourself. Various cultures and religions have practiced meditation for millennia to realize their true nature. Although the ultimate goal of meditation is enlightenment or freedom from the cycle of birth and death, you can also enjoy other benefits.

Just a few of the reasons to meditate include:

Lowering heart rate and blood pressure
Reducing stress, anxiety, and depression
Fostering patience and kindness
Being mindful
Eliminating negative emotions
Gaining insight and perspective on your life
Enhancing love and compassion for yourself and others
Improving sleep quality

2. Go For Walks in Nature

Being alone also lets you reconnect with nature while enjoying your own company. Living in a busy city can make you feel out of touch with the rhythms of life. However, being immersed in the natural world reminds you that you’re a small part of a larger picture. We tend to forget that we’re fragments of consciousness in the daily life’s hustle and bustle.

Walking in the woods and hearing the wildlife or rushing streams helps you feel grounded. Seeing this natural beauty and wonder around you fosters a deeper appreciation for life. Studies show that people who spend at least 2 hours per week in nature have lower stress, a calmer nervous system, and improved mood. They also tend to have better self-esteem and overall health.

As long as you feel safe, exploring nature alone allows you to leave the world’s stresses behind. You don’t have to worry about keeping up a conversation or tending to others’ needs for once. At the moment, it’s just you and nature, and there’s nothing more beautiful than that.

3. Harness Your Creativity With Coloring

Studies have shown that adult coloring books can help people destress while providing a creative outlet. It gets you out of your head and focuses entirely on the activity. Unlike other modern recreation such as video games or online chatting, coloring evokes peace and relaxation.

It’s also not as stimulating as being on a smartphone, which most people use to stave boredom or anxiety. However, next time you need to let off some steam, bring out the colors and create a masterpiece instead. Being alone doesn’t mean feeling lonely, as long as you fill the time with activities you enjoy. Plus, coloring allows you to feel like a kid again and leave the worries of adulthood behind for a bit.

4. Being Alone Offers Time To Reflect

We tend to lose sight of our true selves throughout our lives since we’re so busy with responsibilities. At some point, we begin to feel lost and unsatisfied with this whole human experience. Where can we turn to for insight and direction? Luckily, you have a portable paradise waiting inside you. Being alone allows you to go within and tune back into your true nature.

We come into this world as nothing but love and peace, but the outer world makes us forget ourselves. Being alone doesn’t mean you don’t care about others, but you need this time to recharge and rediscover yourself. So, don’t feel guilty about turning off your phone and just decompressing from the demands of life. We only have so much energy to give, and leaving some for yourself is vital.

5. Practice Self-Care

Other activities you can enjoy while being alone include taking a warm bath, stretching, burning incense, or anything else that makes you feel relaxed. We all have a routine for self-care, and it looks different for everyone. No matter what you choose, research shows that taking time for yourself boosts mental and physical well-being.

Some other ideas for self-care include:

aromatherapy
regular exercise
at-home spa days
taking a nap
making a healthy meal
breathing exercises
practicing gratitude
walking in nature
journaling
yoga

6. Cook a Delicious Meal

Another way to be alone is to make the most of being isolated by whipping up your favorite dish. Just because you don’t have others to cook for doesn’t mean you should skimp on dinner. Go ahead and make that steak you’ve been craving or the pasta dish you saw on Instagram the other day. You deserve it! A warm, hearty meal will lift your spirits and make you feel accomplished simultaneously.

7. Read Your Favorite Book

If you need an escape from adulting for a while, why not read that book you’ve had on your nightstand? Perhaps you haven’t had time to crack it open with adult responsibilities, but a day off work provides the perfect opportunity.

You know the joys of being alone if you’re a bookworm since you finally get some peace. There’s no one reminding you of deadlines or demanding something from you. You can be for a while and immerse yourself in a fantasy world beyond your wildest imagination.

As a child, many of us looked forward to curling up with our favorite book after a long school day. Maybe we should bring back that pastime and turn off Netflix for an evening or two in our adult years.

Final Thoughts on the Importance of Being Alone

There are two camps of people when it comes to being alone: those who love it and those who can’t stand it. Typically, extroverts despise alone time, while introverts can’t get enough of it. No matter your personality, everyone can benefit from solitude every so often. The world demands so much of us nowadays that we can quickly lose our connection with ourselves.

Being alone allows you to re-establish that connection through meditation, yoga, nature walks, or other activities. So, put your phone on silent and leave the world behind on your next day off. It’s all about you, so make the most of it!

5 Leaders We Should All Follow

November 9, 2015 by Power of Positivity

Leadership is one of those traits that everyone wants to have. After all, it’s straightforward to follow. Not to mention, it’s much more comfortable knowing that we have a “place” in the hierarchy. These leaders assured some safety by stepping outside of the box and moving the needle toward better human rights.

One example of this is in the modern workplace. At work, we are told that it’s necessary to adhere to policy and take any issues that we have to the “higher-ups.”

This is fine if we wish to take our “place” at work and keep a low profile. However, that doesn’t mean that we can’t embody the traits of great leaders – either in our personal and professional lives.

Let’s take a look at some of the great leaders that have distinguished themselves from others in history. In reading about them, may it inspire us to emulate their boldness and character – even in the face of difficulties.

“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” – John Quincy Adams.

Here are five leaders we should all strive to emulate:

1. Abraham Lincoln (Decisiveness)

“I walk slowly, but I never walk backward.”

In the United States history, perhaps no other leader has effectively united its citizens with more character and decisiveness than the 16th President. The Civil War, which lasted over four years, is the only war in U.S. history that involved deadly infighting amongst its citizens. In the end, the tragic war had claimed the lives of over 600,000.

The war tormented Lincoln, who already routinely fought melancholy and depression throughout his life. He not only had to deal with the tragic deaths of his citizens, but he also had to manage the unrelenting, inhospitable vitriol that was spewed his way by Congress and some Americans.

Through it all, Lincoln stayed the course and, as a result, the abhorrent act of slavery was abolished. The 16th President united an entire nation, even when the odds against him were enough to crush the will of even the most resilient men. Lincoln delivered perhaps the most critical speech in the history of the United States at Gettysburg; in part stating:

“…we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain – that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom – and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

2. Nelson Mandela (Courage)

“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”

Nelson Mandela’s legacy embodies that of courage and resilience. He was about 30 years of age when the government of South Africa began the apartheid – literally, the “apart-hood” – between white and non-white citizens. Apartheid encompassed policies that forced the non-white population to live in pre-designated areas, use separate public facilities, and limit their interaction with the majority white population.

Mandela was instrumental in orchestrating the revolutionary movement against apartheid. As a result of his efforts, he was ultimately convicted of conspiracy against the government and sentenced to life in prison. Mandela had served 27 years of his sentence until an international campaign against his incarceration pressured the South African government to release him.

Eventually, Mandela became the first black president of South Africa. Mandela worked diligently to abolish apartheid. He successfully implemented a new Constitution that effectively united an entire nation through his tenure. His commitment to human rights serves as an inspiration to leaders to this day.

3. King Leonidas I (Strength)

“They say that the barbarian has come near and is coming on while we are wasting time. Truth, soon we shall either kill the barbarians, or else we are bound to be killed ourselves.”

During Leonidas, I, the Greek King of Sparta, the Persian King Xerxes had made it an utmost priority to conquer the lands of Greece. Xerxes had effectively pillaged and murdered innocent men, women, and children in his conquest with little resistance. That is until the Persian King turned his attention towards the Great King Leonidas’ modest city of Sparta.

Xerxes wasn’t aware of the strength and resilience of the Great King and his fellow warriors. Certainly outnumbered multiple times over, Leonidas resisted all attempts by the Persians to “lay down all arms.” Knowing Leonidas’ ferocious and tactical fighting ability and his fellow Spartan army, Xerxes attempted to appease Leonidas, promising to make him his second command if Leonidas surrendered. Knowing full-well that this appeasement would lead to the slavery of his people, Leonidas vehemently rejected Xerxes’ proposals, even until his death at the infamous battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC.

The bravery of King Leonidas and his fellow countrymen in the face of insurmountable odds continues to be an inspiration to freedom-loving people all over the world.

4. Mother Theresa (Love)

“Every time you smile at someone, it is an action of love, a gift to that person, a beautiful thing.”

There is perhaps no other person in history who dedicated themselves to the poor and disenfranchised than Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Born in 1910 to a prominent family, Mother Teresa first devoted herself to education, serving as a teacher in India – promising to touch the lives of fragile, young children.

Witnessing the suffering of her fellow countrymen, Mother Teresa devoted her life to serving everyone in tragic circumstances, especially the poor. Inspired by her faith and calling, Mother Teresa took on a life of poverty as a Catholic Nun while continued her teaching – both in and out of the classroom. She sustained her efforts to transform the lives of Indian children through unshakable commitment, generosity, and kindness.

Citing a personal breakthrough in her faith, Mother Teresa continued her humanitarian efforts, venturing into the slums of Calcutta – saying that she wished to do nothing more than “serve the unwanted, the unloved, the uncared for.” She ultimately established care facilities – leper colonies, nursing homes, and health clinics – that continue to serve the sick and needy to this day.

5. Mahatma Gandhi (Peace)

“First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win.”

Born into a country in turmoil, Mahatma Gandhi was unwavering. He understood that peace, not war, is the best solution to a problem.

Despite an occupying force that was brutally violent and suppressive in their methods, Gandhi was a fabulous and welcoming presence. He was a man that fought with a gentle, loving disposition without ever waving from his principles.

Gandhi pledged to “never harm a single soul” and encouraged his people to do the same. Instead, this great man encouraged civil disobedience through means of peace. More specifically, Gandhi encouraged demonstrations and the boycott of foreign aid provided by the occupying force.

Eventually, the British left India, and Gandhi became the “Father of the Nation.” Perhaps more importantly, Gandhi inspired other leaders to use peace and love in their opposition instead of violence.

5 Habits That Make People Unhappy (And How to Avoid Having Them)

November 8, 2015 by Power of Positivity

If you are unhappy, you might be looking for some ideas to help improve your habits.

Happiness is something that we all strive to attain. We can accept that (a) life is short, and (b) unhappiness makes our lives difficult. As is common knowledge, our habits significantly impact the quality of life we live; specifically, these habits directly impact our happiness (or lack thereof). To make a clear distinction, there is a remarkable difference between clinical depression and chronic unhappiness. Depression is a chemical imbalance in the brain, while unhappiness is a disposition that we often acquire through how we choose to live our lives. Similar to depression. However, unhappiness can be diagnosed and treated.

Here are five habits that make people unhappy, all of which can be avoided.

Do you engage in these behaviors?

“I am determined to be cheerful and happy in whatever situation I may find myself. For I have learned that the greater part of our misery or unhappiness is determined not by our circumstance but by our disposition.” – Martha Washington, wife of 1^st U.S. President George Washington

1. Chronic Complaining

Happy and successful people do not complain much. Conversely, it seems that chronic complainers always have something negative to say, even when those around them are happy! The bottom line: we all have different circumstances that we are given in this lifetime, but in the end, these circumstances are ours – fair or unfair, wanted or unwanted. Instead, seek solutions to problems instead of complaining, leading nowhere.

2. Negative addictions

Most things are good in moderation – food, a drink or two, entertainment. When these things take center stage in our lives, it becomes a problem. Unfortunately, many good people have met their end through addictive habits, primarily through dependence on alcohol and drugs. A great preventative measure and remedy to these addictions? Finding and living our passions to the greatest extent possible (see #8).

3. Regretting the past

Regret is not only useless, but it can also be incredibly harmful. Research continues to show that repetitive, negative thoughts about decisions made in the past in often a precursor to chronic stress and depression. You have four coping methods to deal with regret: (1) learn from mistakes but don’t dwell, (2) if nothing can be changed about the situation to let it go, make sure too much blame is not being undertaken, and(4) reframing the situation more positively.

4. Worrying about the future

We only have so much say in what our future holds. This tip is not meant to disempower (quite the opposite); instead, it states simple truth. What we can do is to live in the present while fully exercising our God-given abilities and talents, enabling and empowering us to live a happier existence. There’s that phrase again: living in the present. Face difficulties as they arise and let them go. Enjoy the beautiful things in life and experience them fully, be present.

5. Being driven by fear

Yes, fear can be an enabler to unhappiness. However, to fully understand this, we must go back to being present again. Quite simply, we can’t allow fear of the unknown (and the unavoidable) to cripple our quality of life. Fear is a negative thought process that is often on autopilot.

Remember: We are not our negative thoughts. We are not fear, worry, anxiety, or any other negative thought process.

Once aware of these habits, you can keep them at bay by following the tips mentioned above.

Join the discussion: What negative habits do you try to avoid?

5 Breathing Exercises That Relax You Immediately

November 8, 2015 by Power of Positivity

It might seem obvious to say that breathing is important. It is the only way to supply our bodies with the oxygen necessary for survival, and it aids in the process of removing toxins from our body to keep us healthy.

It has been scientifically proven that breathing goes far beyond being a relaxation tool, and can affect the brain, the heart and the digestive and immune systems. While these reasons are critical to our physical well-being, breathing also plays an important role in our mental well-being.

Of course, it’s good to know that modern science supports something that the ancient practice of pranayama, or “control of breath,” has been espousing for thousands of years.

To utilize our breath to reap the benefits, it should be done with intention and purpose. There are varying ways of practicing controlled breath, but the basic components are:

1. Through the nose inhale deeply to a count of five focusing on the expansion of the abdomen.
2. Hold the breath for a time.
3. Completely exhale through the mouth. The exhalation should be longer in duration than the inhalation.

Controlled breathing takes practice, and we now know that our practice will pay off in more ways than we originally thought. The beauty of practicing controlled breath is it can be done anywhere and anytime.

The best time to bring a focus on our breath is when we are tense or feeling anxious. The physical signs of these emotions can help remind us of the importance of the breath and help us return to a calm state.

5 Breathing Exercises That Will Help You Relax Immediately:

1. Sama Vritti Pranayama (Equal Breathing)

Find a comfortable position and close your eyes and take notice of the rhythm of your natural respiration. Once you are completely at ease, inhale slowly to a count of four and then exhale to a count of four. The goal of this technique is to match the inhale count with the exhale count. It is fine to play with the count as long as the inhale and exhale are equal. Continue breathing for several minutes.

2. Adham Pranayama (Abdominal Breathing)

When you are in a comfortable seated or lying position, place one hand on the chest and the other on the abdomen. The goal of this breath is to inflate your diaphragm and not your chest. Take a deep breath in through the nose to the count of four, hold for two counts and then exhale to the count of six. Continue this cycle for ten minutes each day.

3. Nadi Shodhan Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing)

Sit comfortably with good posture ensuring the shoulders are relaxed. Place your left hand on the knee with the palm facing up, take the right index finger and place it on the left nostril and the right thumb on the right nostril. The index finger will be used to close the left nostril, and the right thumb will be used to close the right nostril.

Press your thumb on the right nostril while gently exhaling through the left nostril. At the conclusion of the exhalation, breathe in through the left nostril and then press the left nostril closed while removing the right thumb and opening up the right nostril.

Breathe out through the right nostril and then inhale, alternating to the left side again. Complete nine rounds of breathing, alternately between the left and right nostrils.

4. Sheetali Pranayama (Cooling Breathing)

This breath helps to reduce body temperature, which is beneficial when trying to relax. Begin in a comfortable seated position. Start by rolling the tongue and breathing in through the tongue to cool the breath. Inhale to a count of four and then exhale through the nose to a count of six. Continue the breath for five minutes. As you continue to develop the breath you can increase the counts of inhalation and exhalation.

5. Bhastrika Pranayama (Bellows Breath)

Find a comfortable sitting position. Close the right nostril with your right thumb with proper posture and relaxed muscles. Your right elbow should be at the same level of the right shoulder. Close your eyes and inhale and exhale through the left nostril. Start slowly, then increase the pace, mimicking the bellows. Do this 20-25 times and then release the right nostril. Take a long deep breath and retain it for as long as possible and then slowly exhale. Repeat on the right side.

When someone gives us the advice to take break for some fresh air, it seems so simple. And it can be. Commit to ten minutes a day, whether you need to relax or not, and watch the positive effects unfold. Learning to breathe to serve our bodies and our minds takes only a few minutes a day and will deliver benefits over a lifetime.

6 Signs You’ve Found the One

November 8, 2015 by Power of Positivity

Fleeting relationships can be here one day and gone the next, but there’s nothing quite like being intertwined with someone who leaves an everlasting imprint on your soul. Everyone wants to find the one. The one that will make them happy for the rest of their lives. Many people chase after it. But how can you tell which relationships will truly make a soulful impact in your life? And is there only ONE life mate for you out there?

Many people believe that we don’t choose our partners and that destiny puts us together. Whether that’s true or not, it’s important to know if the person you’re in a relationship with truly has the potential to warm your heart forever. To gain a clearer vision when seeking “the one”, these ten things should not go unnoticed:

6 Signs You’ve Found “The One”

1. They support your aspirations

Support from your significant other is vital. So the one who loves you forever should be able to provide this at all times, in all situations. They will help uplift you, stay aware of your emotions, and help pick you up when you’re feeling down.

Of all people, the one person who touches your soul will know your vulnerabilities, and much like the ancient art of Kintsugi, that person will help fill your cracks and make you stronger than ever before.

2. The One sparks passion in you

When someone inspires you to bring out your best self and create from your heart, there’s a good chance they could be a soul mate. This person will not suppress or distract you from your inner desires but rather act as a catalyst to help you propel into the life you’ve always dreamed of.

You and your soul mate have the potential to become the best versions of yourselves, giving way to growth that you’ve only imagined. They know the importance of seeing you fully live (not just exist) as your best self and will take the positive steps necessary to help you see your passion come to life.

3. You communicate comfortably with The One

You can be confident that you may have found the one when your words towards each other are kind and loving (more often than not). Of course, you’ll have your ups and downs, but if kind communication is consistent, you have a winning formula. You also know that you can tell your partner ANYTHING without being judged or criticized.

Likewise, you can be honest and expect understanding and love. If you feel like you cannot be open and honest, even during a moment of “human error”, that’s a sign of someone who may not match your energy.

4. They truly appreciate your affection

In the right relationship, it’s important to make all the non-physical connections, such as comfortable communication, similar interests, etc. But there’s no denying the powerful energy produced when you physically connect with that special person. Just a single touch can send chills through your body. They want to give and receive these things consistently.

Your soul mate will NOT simply “get what they want and be done with you.”

But rather enjoy every moment of passion with you – every step leading up to it and every step leading down from it.

5. The One (always) think you’re irresistible

The person who makes you blush, no matter what time of day or year, is surely a soul mate in the making. A soul mate type of relationship looks past imperfections, messy hair, wrinkles, and little behaviors that may be considered “less than savory” by others.

Even when you don’t necessarily see your radiance, your soul mate will. Your special someone doesn’t need to see you in your best dress to be enamored by your beauty.

6. They are trustworthy and loyal

With life’s negative temptations, it’s no wonder why breakups and divorce rates are at an all-time high. It can be hard to stay confident that “The One” can be trusted. But trust is a must, and finding your soul mate requires you to open up to an even higher level of trust.

These high levels of trust may seem high-risk for you. But you can be assured that your soul mate will not abuse the freedoms of your relationship. Indeed, they will show an equal level of trust and openness without trying to “keep up” with your level of effort.

The one you know is right will also be willing to remain by your side, even when you aren’t in a “season of harvest.” When you finally connect with the right person, a union goes far beyond any superficial situation.

Add to the discussion: What signs have you seen that led you to find “the one”?

10 Things To Never Do When You’re Angry

November 7, 2015 by Power of Positivity

“When angry, count to ten before you speak; if very angry, a hundred,” ~ Thomas Jefferson

When we are angry, more than our mood is affected. It can influence our decisions, our actions and our ability to do simple things. It’s probably obvious that we don’t want anger to be the driving force behind our choices, yet that’s what we tend to do. What’s more, our anger doesn’t just impact us, it impacts everyone around us, creating a ripple effect.

We have three choices when it comes to dealing with our anger. We can:

Hide it
Express it
Let it go

And while we’re working through our anger, it’s important to approach it the right way. That means stepping back from some of our daily routines and rethinking our approach.

10 Things You Should Never Do When You’re Angry

1. Hide it.

Hiding our anger is often encouraged and is certainly easier than dealing with it. The evidence, however, says that hiding anger can affect our health. Studies show that holding on to anger can increase the risk of heart disease and impact our overall health. Just because hiding it is bad, doesn’t mean you should put your anger on display. Instead of reacting in the moment, find a way to work through your anger respectfully and thoughtfully.

2. Go to sleep while you’re still angry.

To be thoughtful in our response to a heated situation, we may think “sleeping on it” is a good strategy. Well, it seems the age-old advice of “never going to be angry” is what’s best. Going to sleep with the feelings of anger burning strong will only reinforce those feelings making them even more pronounced in the morning.

3. Go for a drive.

Choose to travel on foot and stay out of the car whenever possible. When we are angry, our ability to focus and concentrate is diminished, which could lead to poor judgment on the roadways. The plus side of walking is that any form of physical exercise is a good approach to dealing with anger.

4. Shout it from the rooftops.

We all need to vent from time to time, but it might not have a positive effect. “Venting may make you feel different at the moment, but the change in an emotional state doesn’t necessarily feel better; it may just feel less bad,” says University of Arkansas psychology professor Jeffrey Lohr. Venting may make us feel better, but it isn’t addressing the problem. Don’t call, text, or discuss your relationship problems with any third party.

5. Keep arguing.

When angry, it’s hard to present our side of the story with rational and thoughtful points. We often result in saying things we’ll regret down the road. Listen and then allow yourself to take leave of the argument to process the event. Leaving the argument doesn’t mean it’s over. It’s important that we prepare ourselves to revisit it with the right intentions and in a better frame of mind.

6. Air your grievances on social media.

When we post our arguments on social media, we can’t take them back. Just like arguing in the heat of the moment can lead to regret, so can posting on Facebook. Yes, you can delete it, but once it’s out there, it’s out there.

7. Email the person you’re angry at.

You can’t take back an email sent like posting on social media. While writing and journaling are great ways of dealing and processing anger, sending those thoughts are a bad idea. Write the email and then delete or save it. Whatever we do, we shouldn’t send it. We can always revisit the email once our emotions are under control.

8. Resort to drugs and/or alcohol.

Alcohol is a depressant, and adding a depressant to a depressing mood is a recipe for disaster. Alcohol impedes our judgment and lowers the natural restraint mechanisms that prevent us from doing dumb things. This state of mind can lead to doing and saying things returning to haunt us.

9. Dwell on it.

When we dwell on something that makes us angry, it can spiral out of control. Overthinking the situation can lead to blowing it out of proportion and creating more points of contention. Instead of dwelling on the situation, try having a direct and respectful conversation with the person involved.

10. Reach for food.

Emotional eating is never good. When we are in a crisis, we aren’t usually reaching for carrot sticks. Instead, we find ourselves reaching for foods that bring us comfort. Eating poorly during an emotional state can lead to a compromised immune system. Eating mindfully is never more important than when we are dealing with anger.

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9 Reasons Being Alone is Good For Your Soul

1. It clears the mind.

2. It fosters creativity.

3. It builds confidence.

4. It encourages independence.

5. It clarifies perceptions.

6. It diminishes stress and anxiety.

7. It establishes priorities.

8. It boosts productivity.

9. It strengthens relationships.

7 Activities When It’s Time For Being Alone

1. Meditate

2. Go For Walks in Nature

3. Harness Your Creativity With Coloring

4. Being Alone Offers Time To Reflect

5. Practice Self-Care

6. Cook a Delicious Meal

7. Read Your Favorite Book

Final Thoughts on the Importance of Being Alone

Here are five leaders we should all strive to emulate:

1. Abraham Lincoln (Decisiveness)

2. Nelson Mandela (Courage)

3. King Leonidas I (Strength)

4. Mother Theresa (Love)

5. Mahatma Gandhi (Peace)

Here are five habits that make people unhappy, all of which can be avoided.

1. Chronic Complaining

2. Negative addictions

3. Regretting the past

4. Worrying about the future

5. Being driven by fear

5 Breathing Exercises That Will Help You Relax Immediately:

1. Sama Vritti Pranayama (Equal Breathing)

2. Adham Pranayama (Abdominal Breathing)

3. Nadi Shodhan Pranayama (Alternate Nostril Breathing)

4. Sheetali Pranayama (Cooling Breathing)

5. Bhastrika Pranayama (Bellows Breath)

6 Signs You’ve Found “The One”

1. They support your aspirations

2. The One sparks passion in you

3. You communicate comfortably with The One

4. They truly appreciate your affection

5. The One (always) think you’re irresistible

6. They are trustworthy and loyal

10 Things You Should Never Do When You’re Angry

1. Hide it.

2. Go to sleep while you’re still angry.

3. Go for a drive.

4. Shout it from the rooftops.

5. Keep arguing.

6. Air your grievances on social media.

7. Email the person you’re angry at.

8. Resort to drugs and/or alcohol.

9. Dwell on it.

10. Reach for food.

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