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12 Life Lessons Learned From B.B. King

Throughout his life, B.B. King released over 50 albums and was considered the “king of the blues” for more than six decades. He influenced countless musicians with his staccato guitar-picking style and smooth, yet powerful voice, and though he passed away just yesterday, his legacy will never be forgotten.

He won 15 GRAMMY Awards® throughout his career as a blues musician and made an everlasting mark on the music industry, as well as the lives of people he touched through his songs. We can learn valuable lessons from all those who have come before us, including the legendary B.B. King.

Here are some of his most memorable quotes and lessons he taught us:

relationship

1. “The beautiful thing about learning is nobody can take it away from you.”

He learned the fundamentals of blues from his cousin, Bukka White, and once he mastered the art of blues, he put his own unique spin on blues music. He taught us that it’s important to learn from others, but also to stay true to your heart and express what you’ve learned in your own special way.

2. “We all have idols. Play like anyone you care about, but try to be yourself while you’re doing it.”

Yet again, he showed us that you can share a talent with many others in the world, but to honor yourself and never stray from what feels right in your own heart. Never sacrifice your individuality for fortune or fame – those come as a byproduct of simply being yourself.

3. “I don’t think it’s meant for man to know everything at once.”

4. “Growing up, I was taught that a man has to defend his family. When the wolf is trying to get in, you gotta stand in the doorway. He has to get through you first before he gets into the house to get your family. I’m one of those guys who wants to be in that door.”

A very poignant quote from the blues icon himself, he showed us that above all, we must protect those we love, and stand by them no matter what comes knocking at the door.

5. While he didn’t say this directly, he taught us to never give up and never get complacent even when we’ve reached our goals. He remained on tour well into his 80s, showing us that when you truly love something and feel it deep within your bones, it becomes a part of you that you can’t ever give up.

6. Any time that people think enough of you to put up something that’s everlasting is only going to make you feel good.”

7. “I don’t think anybody steals anything; all of us borrow.”

He knew that all of us come to Earth with nothing, and leave with nothing. Therefore, we all share the resources we have during our time here; even if it’s not a popular viewpoint, he expressed it openly and honestly anyway, making him even more memorable as a blues artist.

8. “I never wanted to be like other blues singers. I might like hearing them play, but I’ve never wanted to be anyone other than myself. There are a few people I’ve wished I could play like, but when I tried, it didn’t work.”

9. “If there was no ladies, I wouldn’t wanna be on the planet. Ladies, friends, and music – without those three, I wouldn’t wanna be here.”

10. “I never use that word – retire.”

11. “There are so many sounds I still want to make, so many things I haven’t yet done.”

He showed us to never let your excitement and desire for life fade away; always find something to stay passionate about, and do things that make you feel thankful and honored to be here.

12. “You only live but once, and when your died your done, so let the good times roll.”

Though he may not have written these lyrics, he certainly lived them and showed us to take life by the horns and give our best effort at each new sunrise. He truly appreciated every day he spent on Earth, and we will always remember him for his contagious smiles, positive attitude, and willingness to live each day like it was his last.

5 Exercises to Relieve Sciatica Pain

The sciatic nerve is the largest single nerve in the human body; traveling downwards from both sides of the lower spine, through the buttocks to the back of the thigh and continuing down to the foot. This nerve is single-handedly responsible for connecting the spinal cord to the leg and foot muscles. Sciatica results when inflammation strikes this nerve.

Given the length and function of the sciatic nerve, it is quite possible to experience sciatic pain (sciatica) at some point in your life. Unfortunately, this pain is often both excruciating and debilitating when it strikes.

Common symptoms of sciatica:

– Constant pain on one side of the buttock or leg.

– Sharp, severe pain in one leg – making it difficult to stand or walk.

– Foot pain or pain in the toes.

– Discomfort worsens when standing or sitting, while dissipating when laying down or walking.

– Pain is sharp and searing, not dull.

– Pain originates in the lower back or buttock and travels downwards.

– A “pins-and-needles” or prickling sensation down the leg.

In many cases, this pain can be resolved with some simple exercises over a short period of time. However, when experiencing severe and/or persistent pain – generally over a week – it is always best to seek medical advice.

Here are some exercises that you can try to relieve sciatica.

#1. Knee to chest stretch

Starting position: Lie down face-up on a mat or carpet, knees bent, feet straight and hip-width apart. Chin slightly tucked.

Support: Place a small cushion under the head.

Motion: Move the knee up and grasp with interlocked fingers. Slowly bring the knee towards your chest, stopping at the point of discomfort. Hold the position for 20-30 seconds with deep, controlled breathing.

Repeat motion three times with each leg.

Pointers:

-Ignore the natural tendency to tense up chest, neck or shoulders. This often happens when and if pain surfaces.

-Keep the upper body relaxed throughout the exercise.

#2. Sciatica stretch

sciatica stretch

Starting position: Lie down face-up on a mat or carpet knees bent, feet straight and hip-width apart. Chin slightly tucked.

Support: Place a small cushion under the head.

Motion: Bend one knee up to the chest and hold hamstring with both hands just below the knee. Slowly straighten the knee and bring your foot towards your abdominal area, stopping at the point of discomfort. Hold the position for 20-30 seconds with deep, controlled breathing. Bend the knee and return to the starting position.

Repeat motion three times with each leg.

Pointers:

– Don’t place any more pressure on your lower back than necessary for the stretch.

– Make sure to stop if any pain, tingling or numbness is felt.

#3. Seated hip stretch

Starting position: Sit in a chair or on the floor. If sitting on the floor, cross one leg over with the other leg straight. If sitting on a chair, simply cross one leg over the other with the ankle area supported by the opposite knee.

Support: Use a small cushion in either position if more comfortable.

Motion: Sitting on the floor, cross the right leg over the straightened left leg and hug the right knee with your left arm while keeping your back straight. Stop at the point of discomfort. Hold for 30 seconds while breathing deeply.

Sitting in a chair, gently lean forward until the stretch is felt. Stop at the point of discomfort. Hold for 30 seconds while breathing deeply.

Repeat on the opposite side, if desired.

Pointers:

– Keep the back straight if performing the exercise on the floor. If sitting on a chair, you will lean forward to perform the stretch.

– Stop if any pain, tingling or numbness is felt.

#4. Piriformis stretch

Starting position: Lie down face-up on a mat or carpet with both feet flat on the floor, knees bent.

Support: Place a small cushion under the head if more comfortable.

Motion: Rest your left or right angle over the opposite knee, grasp the opposite leg just below the knee and pull the thigh towards your chest. Stop at the point of sciatica discomfort and hold the position for 30 seconds, breathing deeply.

Repeat stretch on other leg.

Pointers:

– Remember to keep both feet relaxed as possible.

– Keep neck and back flat on the ground while performing the exercise.

– Stop if any pain, tingling or numbness is felt.

#5. Back extensions

Starting position: On a carpet or mat, lie down on your stomach while using your elbows for support. Lengthen your back, shoulders and neck.

Support: Mat or blanket may be used if more comfortable.

Motion: Keeping your body lengthened, arch your back by pushing down on your upper arms or hands. A stretch should be felt in your stomach muscles if performed correctly. Stop at the point of discomfort and hold the position for 10-15 seconds while breathing deeply.

Repeat the stretch up to 10 times, if comfortable.

Pointers:

– Keep your hips flat on the ground.

– The neck should remain straight throughout the exercise.

– Do not push past the point of discomfort.

The above exercises should provide some measure of relief from sciatic pain if performed correctly and on a regular basis. It is notable that these are beneficial exercises for general back pain as well. Further, the exercises are terrific for keeping the body healthy and enhancing or maintaining flexibility.

signs of sciatica

Final Thoughts on Coping with Sciatica

Remember: If your sciatica pain persists or worsens, please seek medical advice. These exercises are not meant to substitute necessary medical care for severe and/or chronic back pain.

3 Ways to Turn Your Home Into Your Sanctuary

“There is a reverence for the simple, quiet pleasures of living well and beautifully at home. Home is where we return for fulfillment and wholeness.” ~ Alexandra Stoddard

Everyone deserves a space where they can feel emotionally safe and secure. Space where the chaos of the world is checked at the door and upon entering, the soul is fed with calm and positive energy. And what better place for this space to reside then in your home?

When creating a sanctuary, you should walk into the room and immediately feel lighter as if all the stresses and worry of your day has been lifted.

Here are 3 ways to turn your home into your sanctuary.

1 – Aromatherapy

“Odors have a power of persuasion stronger than that of words, appearances, emotions, or will.” ~ Patrick Süskind,

Have you ever entered a space and felt the energy change? Energy surrounds us and even though we might not always be aware of it, it can influence our mood, our work, and even our health.

There is a reason ancient cultures use incense made from a varying bouquet of aromatic plants as a form of worship and healing. They used it because it is believed to heal and chase away negative energy.

Well, it turns out what our ancient relatives believed is true. Studies show that essential oils and aromatherapy can positively affect depression, anxiety, and other mood-related ailments not to mention a host of physical symptoms.

Do These Things

  • Create a citrus-based room spray.
  • Place lavender filled sachets on a bookshelf, in drawers and closets.
  • Make a bowl of potpourri for the room.
  • Burn essential oil-based candles or use a diffuser.

Aromatherapy will not only fill your home with pleasant scents, but it can also create the sanctuary you need to recharge. Add the many health benefits associated with essential oils and specific plant combinations and it’s a wonder it isn’t more commonly used.

2 – Reduce Clutter

“Be content with what you have, rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” – Lao Tzu

Everybody’s definition of clutter is different. Two people walking into a room might see a different picture, one might appreciate the well-decorated space while the other might see clutter and too much stuff. The important thing to remember about reducing clutter is that it looks different for everyone.

What we surround ourselves with is often an indication of what is going on in our life. We tend to hold onto things for a sense of comfort and security. The problem is we often become a slave to our stuff.

Think back to a time when you cleaned your office or desk, how did it make you feel? Most people tend to feel a sense of calm and order. It feels good! De-cluttering your space can:

  1. Reduce stress
  2. Make your surroundings more attractive
  3. Save you money
  4. Generate feelings of peace and tranquility

When clearing a space, start small. Choose a corner, a shelf, or a drawer and begin there. Don’t allow the process of reducing clutter bring on overwhelming feelings.

Do These Things

  • Set a timer and eliminate clutter for at least five minutes a day.
  • Give away one item per day.
  • If you haven’t used it in a year, let it go.
  • Make a home for everything and it put it back after using it.

Remember, once a room is “de-cluttered,” chances are some habits will need to be changed. After all, the clutter didn’t happen by itself.

3 – Go Green at Home

“Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson

From plants to recycling to bringing the sounds of nature indoors, going green in your space will help you create the sanctuary you crave.

There are numerous health benefits associated with being outside more and inside less. In a recent study, there is a link between exposure to nature with better energy levels and an increased perception of well-being.

However, most people spend the majority of their day inside, so it only makes sense to bring Mother Nature in so we feel alive and at peace.

Earth-toned colors, materials made out of woods and stone, and sounds from nature will help keep your relationship with the outdoors intact even in the midst of a hectic schedule.

Do These Things

  • Use natural light as much as possible.
  • Create the sound of water with a tabletop water feature
  • Add plants around the space.
  • Paint a wall using a calming color.

Creating a home that is yours and harmoniously functions while bringing you joy and peace is important to your overall wellbeing. Protect this space and keep it free from unnecessary angst and stress. Doing so will provide your soul with the necessary fuel to feed your creativity and curiosity while maintaining an enthusiasm for life.

7 Reasons Why Crying Means You’re Strong

Crying is often seen as a sign of weakness, particularly among men who learn (unfairly!) to suppress their emotions and “toughen up.”

However, recent research suggests that crying is a healthy and beneficial way to deal with difficult emotions and can be a sign of strength rather than weakness. Crying is a natural physiological response that helps to release pent-up emotions, reduce stress and improve mental well-being. It is a way for the body to regulate and process emotions and can lead to a sense of catharsis and relief.

Crying can also be a sign of resilience and strength. It takes courage and vulnerability to be open and express emotions, particularly in a society that often stigmatizes emotional vulnerability. Crying can also be a way to connect with others and build relationships, as it signals a willingness to be honest and authentic. By allowing oneself to cry and experience emotions, individuals can better cope with difficult situations and build resilience over time. In short, crying can be a powerful tool for emotional regulation and a sign of strength rather than weakness.

“Crying is all right in its way while it lasts. But you have to stop sooner or later, and then you still have to decide what to do.” – C.S. Lewis

Crying is our emotional connection with the world. This simple act is often seen as a weakness when it demonstrates our strength in us. It allows us to celebrate the positive and helps us to let go of the negative things in our lives.

There are three types of tears:

  • Continuous tears keep the surface around the eye moist to protect against infection.
  • Reflex tears flow when something irritates the eye area.
  • Emotional tears have a different chemical makeup and can be a natural painkiller.

Regardless of the type of tears you are shedding, crying is a natural reaction of our body and one that promotes a healthier mind.

Here are seven reasons why it is perfectly okay to cry:

benefits of crying

1. Tears help you let go and move on.

Pretending everything is okay doesn’t solve anything; it leads to a wealth of pent-up emotions. A good cry is a great way to release the need to hold onto something no longer service. Carrying around emotional baggage can affect your mental health, so cry and let it out.

2. Tears have numerous health benefits.

Crying releases toxins and kills bacteria. It is our body’s natural defense against all those pesky germs in familiar public places. Our body is designed to protect us and will take necessary measures to prevent bacteria from getting in. It also works to eliminate foreign elements, so remember that next time you try to stop the tears.

3. Tears help release high levels of stress.

Crying “is believed to release stress hormones or toxins from the body,” says Lauren Bylsma, a Ph.D. professor at the University of Pittsburgh. Crying is a function of the parasympathetic nervous system responsible for relaxation. When you cry, you are likely releasing stress as your body relaxes. That is why a good cry feels so good.

4. Tears help process grief and loss.

“To weep is to make less the depth of grief.” – William Shakespeare

Losing someone or something important is tragic. It is a feeling that engulfs you to the point that the only relief happens through tears and a good hug from a close friend.

We often hold back our tears to make it easy for others, but that is not our best approach. Don’t pretend to be strong to make others feel more comfortable.

Instead, focus on what you need to get through that moment. Crying can be comforting, and your tears become your best friend as you work through your loss.

5. Tears help someone who is depressed feel better.

cry

Crying is scientifically proven to make you feel better. Crying will rarely make you feel worse than what prompted you to cry in the first place. It is a release of pent-up energy and emotions.

Crying helps to regulate the highs and lows of emotional extremes. Tears are essential in helping to get out of moments of intense feeling without injury. Crying, especially when feeling down, shouldn’t embarrass you. Instead, it says you are learning to manage your mental health.

6. Tears are a sign of strength.

Crying is a sign of strength, regardless of what society says. It takes strength to show vulnerability. So stop worrying about what others think and cry if you want to.

“There is a sacredness in tears. They are not the mark of weakness, but of power. They speak more eloquently than ten thousand tongues. They are the messengers of overwhelming grief, of deep contrition, and of unspeakable love.” ~ Washington Irving

7. Tears help you feel when you don’t know how you feel.

Have you ever cried because you didn’t know what to do or how to feel? Sometimes life gets to be too much. It’s hard to stay composed when the next step isn’t clear, and the thought of figuring it out is a bit overwhelming.

A good cry might be the ticket. It releases stress, makes us feel better, and can help foster creative thinking. After feeling the release crying brings, it’s common to experience more energy and new ideas about tackling the challenges we face.

We already mention that tears can make acquaintances feel uncomfortable, but by not crying, you can suppress your feelings to a point where you might not be able to recognize them in the future.

crying

Final Thoughts on Crying Being a Sign of Strength

Crying is not a sign of weakness but rather a sign of strength and resilience. It is a natural and healthy way to process and regulate emotions and can lead to a sense of catharsis and relief. By allowing oneself to be vulnerable and express emotions, individuals can build deeper connections with others and develop greater emotional intelligence. It takes courage to cry, and it is essential to recognize that doing so is not a sign of failure but rather a sign of strength. So next time you feel the urge to cry, don’t hold back – embrace it as a powerful tool for emotional regulation and a sign of your inner strength.

So cry freely and with pride, knowing you are doing what is right and natural to promote your physical and mental well-being.

10 Rituals That Will Change Your Next Meal

On a very basic level, we eat because we are hungry, and our bodies require fuel to live. But a meal is much more than that, it connects us to our heritage, it grows our relationships and it can even comfort us in our time of need. Eating is a privilege many take for granted when it should be a ritual that fosters connectedness.

Many of our food interactions happen because of triggers and feelings that go unnoticed. These triggers establish bad eating habits like eating on the go and snacking when you aren’t hungry. Increasing your awareness of your triggers and feeling in relation to food can help create better-eating habits.

There has been a lot of talk lately about eating mindfully. There is growing research that says our attitudes and practices around mealtime rituals are as important as what it is we put in our mouths. But what does mindful eating really mean?

Mindful eating is a Buddhist practice designed to create a connection with the intention of being present at mealtime. When you are eating mindfully, there is no right or wrong way to eat because you are basing your meals on physical cues, not emotional ones.

When you make the switch from eating mindlessly and out of habit to eating mindfully and with intention, you will create a healthier and happier relationship with food.

Practicing mindful eating can help solve eating issues by increasing awareness of your patterns. It will help you break your bad habits around food while creating healthier ones.

Some additional benefits of being mindful around eating are:

  • You become more aware of your body and its needs
  • It improves digestion and reduces overeating
  • It changes the way you think and how you manage your emotions

Being aware of eating habits and your mealtime rituals will ease the struggle with food and create meaningful and positive experiences worth remembering.

Here are 10 rituals that will completely change your next meal.

Stop Multitasking

You can’t truly appreciate the food on your plate, and the other people present at your meal if you are checking email, texting or watching television. Make mealtime dedicated to the meal and the people you are breaking bread with.

Eat at The Table

We are an “on-the-go” society. There is a lot of eating in the car, at our desks and standing at the counter going on these days. When you make it a habit to eat at a table while sitting down, you are making your food choices a priority. Plus, it can help minimize snacking and mindless over-eating.

Chew Your Food

This may sound like an obvious thing but how many times have you inhaled a meal due to time constraints? If someone were to ask you how it tasted, you probably wouldn’t know how to respond.

Take the time to chew your food. Taste it and appreciate it, be aware of how eating this food is making you feel.

Use Your Senses

As you eat the beautifully prepared food on your plate, use all of your senses. Appreciate the appearance, take in the smell, identify the spices used in the dish, and find the different textures on the plate.

Talk about these things with your mealtime companions. When you spend time truly appreciating your food using all of your senses, you are more connected with your food and your companions.

Choose Quality Foods

There is a time when quantity matters but when it comes to food, it’s quality that should be the focus. Our perception of portion sizes is way out of whack thanks to restaurants trying to win over new customers. When you choose quality foods, your body is getting the nutrition it needs.

Spend Time Preparing Your Food

Nothing makes a meal time better than preparing it with people you care about. Make preparing dinner together a ritual and your mealtime will be happier as a result.

Foster a relaxing and fun environment in the kitchen, use fresh ingredients that fill the room with intoxicating scents and take your time to enjoy each other and the experience.

Express Gratitude

Nothing is more meaningful than expressing gratitude and doing so with intention. Be grateful for the beautiful food, the engaging conversation, and the ability to come together. Being grateful is the greatest gift to mealtime you can give.

These rituals might be simple, but their ability to transform your next meal is great. Take the time to learn what makes you feel good and what makes you feel more connected to your food and those around you.

There is no doubt that with practice and focus, over time you will see huge benefits by being more present in the process of preparing and celebrating food.

What are your mealtime rituals that make your meals better? Share in the comments below:

10 Ways to Hush the Negative Voice Within

Your inner voice can determine how you view life. Your self ­talk is responsible for your dreams and your greatest partner in achieving your goals. How you approach life will determine how happy that life is. Thus positive self-talk begets success while negative talk triggers roadblocks.

It’s true.

According to the Mayo Clinic, “Positive thinking doesn’t mean that you keep your head in the sand and ignore life’s less pleasant situations. Positive thinking just means that you approach the unpleasantness in a more positive and productive way.”

So how do we hush the negative voice within? Psychologist Antonis Hatzigeorgiadis, who conducted a study with colleagues at the University of Thessaly, found, “Instructional self-­talk” works best. Motivational speak can help you succeed. Telling yourself “I can do it” will psych you up and keep you on the right track.

Here are 10 strategies that help quiet a negative inner critic:

1 – Name It

Giving your negative thoughts a name, can help you talk to them. This might sound silly but when you humanize your behaviors you can expect human­ type responses.

For instance, if you doubt whether you will get the promotion, talk to your doubts as you would a friend. “George, that’s enough. I know I am qualified, I work hard, and the interview went great. Stop worrying so much and be encouraging while I wait to hear.”

Negative thoughts can be overwhelming. Naming your thoughts gives them less power over you and helps to put the thoughts into perspective.

2 – Change Your Focus

When your negative voice appears, sometimes the best approach is to silence it by changing your focus on to something good. The good will replace the negative and your anxiety and stress levels will decrease.

Taking a few minutes away from something that is creating self­-doubt, can help keep it from spiraling out of control.

3 – Stop Blaming and Start Claiming

A common initial reaction to negativity is to start placing blame. Blaming just fosters the negative voice inside yourself. Claiming responsibility and putting everything into perspective will help quiet the negative voices and put you on a path to creative problem­solving.

4 – Be Patient

Patience can be a struggle when everyone seems to want things yesterday. When you are impatient, you make harsh judgments, rash decisions and give the negative voices room to grow.

Learning to react from a place of calm and contemplation will help create a patient environment for thoughtful action and positive thinking.

5 – Question It

There is no better way to hush the negative voice than by challenging it ­ and you do that with questions. Question it until you get it under control. Use questions like:

So what? Does it really matter and even so, it doesn’t mean it’s true? Who cares? Do I really care about this? Will I care about this in a month? Why not? Why not me and why not now?

And the best question of all time: what’s the worst that can happen? Keep asking questions until the negative voice gives up.

6 – Stop Predicting and Start Anticipating

Many times our negative voice comes by way of predicting results. In order to protect us from disappointment, we often predict the worst-case scenario.

Instead of predicting, start anticipating the results you want to see happen. When negativity creeps in by way of a prediction, change it to a thought of anticipation.

7 – Take Risks

It seems counter­productive to take a risk when trying to counter your negative voice. Risk is scary, right? You might think that by taking a risk, you are opening yourself up to all sorts of negative self­ talk, but the opposite is true.

By taking risks, you are opening your creative mind and realize mistakes will happen along the way. When you take risks, you anticipate challenges. It’s that anticipation that will help silence the negative voices because you are already prepared for whatever it plans to say.

8 – Develop a Ritual

Some people benefit by developing a ritual to handle negative self­speak and you can too. It can include breathing, an affirmation, or even looking out a window. When you hear the voice in your head saying something negative, stop and acknowledge it. Then proceed with whatever ritual speaks to you. The more you practice your ritual, the more habitual it will become.

9 – Set a Timer

When trying to hush the negative voices, most people try just to ignore them. Doing that doesn’t address the issue. Let the voices speak.

Take some time and allow the negative conversation to happen but set a timer. That’s right, time them. Give the negative voices ten minutes to make their argument and when the timer goes off, it’s time to let them go. They said their peace and now it’s time to move.

10  – Practice Gratitude

Negativity and positivity can’t reside in the same space. So what better way to quiet the negative self­ talk than by focusing on the good in your life. Start recalling the things you are grateful for on a particular day. Doing this will help you find the silver­lining in the situation.

Quieting the voices in our head can be challenging at first. With some of these strategies and a little practice, you will be better equipped to challenge them and move on to thoughts that will serve you.

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