10 Simple Ways to Supercharge Your Immune System

November 20, 2014 by Power of Positivity

As the weather changes, people tend to get sick more often. Many people by default turn to flu shots and take artificial precautions against getting sick. However, you don’t always have to rely on things outside of yourself. You’re not completely defenseless against harsh conditions that bring along colds and the flu. The tips below will help you boost your immune system. Use these measures to prevent and combat the common cold, flu, and allergies the natural way.

10 Natural Ways to Boost Your Immune System and Eliminate Sickness:

1. Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a balanced diet with adequate carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats keep the immune system running well and helps ward off sickness. As Hippocrates said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” Many people rely on over-the-counter medicines to keep them healthy through the winter months, but eating a diet rich in fiber and whole foods can be much more effective in preventing illnesses. According to Dr. Mercola, “most people, including many physicians, do not realize that 80 percent of your immune system is located in your digestive system, making a healthy gut a major focal point if you want to maintain optimal health.

Remember, a robust immune system is your number one defense system against ALL disease.” By eating healthy, you can throw away the antibiotics and boost your immune system naturally.

2. Get Plenty of Rest

The body is an incredible machine that helps you accomplish goals, digest your food, and do your job each day. With everything the body does for you, it needs time to rejuvenate and rest to get ready for the next day.

Your cells actually repair themselves and regenerate during sleep, which is why getting at least seven hours of sleep a night is vital to keeping your immune system healthy. Getting adequate sleep helps your immune system fight off illnesses because your body produces hormones while you sleep, such as melatonin, serotonin, growth hormones, and prolactin, all of which your body needs sufficient amounts of to function properly. Sleep heals, so make sure you’re getting enough each night to support a healthy immune system.

3. Exercise

Exercise provides a bevy of benefits, such as regulating hormones, balancing brain chemistry, controlling appetite, and promoting a better night’s sleep, but did you know it also can help you fight off colds? Studies show that exercising at least thirty minutes a day for five days each week can boost your immune system tremendously and keep colds at bay. If it’s too cold for you to workout outdoors, you could do at-home workouts or go to a nearby gym.

Working out might at first seem like a chore, but staying active can help prevent colds and cases of flu and keep you feeling great throughout the colder months of the year.

4. Get Plenty of Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps prevent colds and allergies and help your body heal if you already have a cold. Vitamin C helps repair and regenerate tissues, helps support a healthy immune system, and acts as a natural antioxidant. The best way to get Vitamin C in your diet is by eating plenty of oranges, tomatoes, red and green peppers, cantaloupe, broccoli, and red cabbage. Drinking just one 8 ounce cup of orange juice a day can help boost your immune system tremendously and combat the common cold.

5. Drink Water, Water, and More Water

Most people don’t drink near enough water each day, which can be detrimental to maintaining good health. Doctors recommend drinking at least eight 8-oz glasses a day for most adults, because water helps your body perform many necessary functions, including cleaning out toxins, providing oxygen to your blood, circulating white blood cells and nutrients to the tissues in your body, aiding in digestion, and keeping your brain chemistry balanced. Since our bodies are made up of anywhere between 50-75% water, we need to keep hydrated to keep all of our body’s functions performing optimally.

Natural Remedies for Colds/Flus:

6. Drink Herbal Tea

One of the most common ways to treat the common cold and flu is to drink hot herbal tea. The heat is soothing on a sore throat, and the herbs in the tea can help your body get rid of the virus faster. The herbs and roots most effective at fighting off colds and touches of flu are thyme, licorice root, Echinacea root, elderberry, and St. John’s wort. When looking for herbal tea, try to find some that include these herbs, or take a separate supplement if you need to.

7. Oil of Oregano

Oregano contains a slew of essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber, folate, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and Vitamin B6. Oregano provides many benefits to the body, such as antioxidants to support a healthy immune system, anti-inflammatory properties, and is useful for treating upper respiratory infections. To use the oil, simply put a couple of drops in a pot of steaming water and inhale the steam, or put a few drops in an 8-ounce glass of water. Only do this once a day though, as it is very strong. Pregnant women are advised not to use oil of oregano.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar

Drinking a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar each day helps to create an alkaline environment in the body, which keeps your immune system functioning properly and allows the body to fight off colds easier. If the vinegar is too strong by itself, add it to a glass of water or tea. You can use it as a preventative practice. Or, use it at the first sign of illness and repeat until symptoms subside.

9. Neti Pot

A neti pot is widely used to treat colds and is a very effective way to clear the nasal passages. A neti pot looks like a cross between a teapot and a genie’s magic lamp. It uses a mixture of water and saline to clear the nasal passages.

To use it, simply warm some water and add it to the neti pot. Next, mix in a pre-packed saline solution or a teaspoon of salt for every two cups of water used. Shake the pot gently to mix the solution. Next, lean your head forward and to the side over a sink. Insert the spout of the neti pot in one nostril, allowing the liquid to come out your other nostril. Repeat these steps for the other nostril. Then, blow your nose.

You should instantly feel your sinuses clear up, and you can do this each day for as long as your symptoms persist.

10. Eat Foods Rich in Zinc

Finally, zinc plays an important role in immune system health and restoring and repairing cells. Many people are deficient in this vital mineral, but you can easily obtain it through certain foods. Legumes, green beans, Brussels sprouts, corn, berries, and dates contain a fair amount of zinc per serving. And, the added fiber is beneficial to maintaining health as well. Zinc blocks viruses from gaining full access to our cells. Plus, it keeps the immune system balanced. You can also take a zinc tablet as well to get the required amount in your diet.

Your Turn…Do You Have Any Immune System Boosts?

Do you have any more tips on preventing the flu or the common cold or natural ways to boost your immune system? We would love it if you could add it in the discussion below!

21 Things to Stop Doing to Yourself (That You May Not Even Be Aware Of)

November 20, 2014 by Power of Positivity

Stop beating yourself up so much and indulging in these other self-defeating actions.

“We can never obtain peace in the outer world until we make peace with ourselves.” – The Dalai Lama

Without any doubt, our lives can be hectic and stressful. The above quote from the Dalai Lama is a tribute to the fact that despite the many difficulties that we face in both our internal and worlds, real peace comes from within. There is neither any person nor circumstance that can disrupt your inner contentment and peace in this world unless you let it.

In order to create this sense of inner peace, there are certain actions and behaviors that must be avoided. While initially difficult or maybe even unknown to your conscious thought process, these practices eventually become habitual. When these practices become routine, your own peace is routine as a consequence.

Here are 21 actions and behaviors to stop that are crucial to your world of inner peace.

1. Stop feeling sorry for yourself.

We are all faced with difficult circumstances, trials, and tribulations in this life. However, feeling sorry for your past or present is a tremendous waste of energy and is a terrible habit. Instead, focus on your goals and the actions needed to attain them. Don’t be a bully, especially to yourself!

2. Stop feeling sorry for others, too.

Feeling sorry for someone else, while certainly natural, is counterproductive. This is because it’s actually negative energy disguised as sympathy. Instead, create positive energy by praying for them, showing true compassion or doing something productive that will better their situation.

3. Stop trying to buy love and happiness.

You can’t buy love and happiness for yourself or anyone else. History is full of people who have tried (and failed) to use money and possessions for this purpose. On the other hand, living minimally and appreciating what you do have can create a sense of love and appreciation.

4. Stop spending time with negative and critical people.

This is a key point, so please read carefully. Energy from others is conducive, just as energy from a power source is. Human beings derive our essence and disposition through either positive or negative energy Instead of feeling an obligation to spend your time with negative people, disburse this time through being positive around them. You’ll notice a positive difference, even if it’s not immediate.

5. Stop every kind of lie.

This includes “white lies,” those alterations of the truth that you think don’t hurt anyone else. Here’s the thing: it still hurts you. The vast majority of us are guilty of this (admittedly, so is the author of this article). We can never realize a true sense of peace without living honestly all of the time, even when it’s difficult.

6. Stop procrastinating.

According to a study done at the University of Colorado, the tendency to procrastinate impulsively is linked to genetic factors and evolution. However, studies also show that procrastination is a habit that can be reversed through repetitive action. The key is to create small, manageable steps for each task and to consciously manage your time. In other words, stop your brain’s autopilot and control the cockpit.

7. Stop running from your problems.

Immediate action is the antidote to anxiety and worry. This includes anything from your finances to fitness. Stop overanalyzing and, as Nike famously quotes “Just Do It.”

8. Stop denying what makes you happy.

We all fear disappointment and failure. The key is to remember that this life is fleeting and temporary, so you might as well embrace your dreams. Cue Steve Jobs: “Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.”

Well said. Now, go pursue the career, family, or education you’ve always wanted.

9. Stop being what other people expect you to be.

“Be yourself.” Certainly, an oft-used adage that we have heard over and over…but are we living it? Social pressure, such as that encountered in social and work settings, often alters our true nature…which alters our peace. Don’t allow it.

10. Stop living in the past and/or the future.

Being present is such a powerful and peaceful way to live. Whatever situation is in front of you, deal with it. Forget about the problems that lie behind or in front of you. Focus your mind and heart on being in the present moment.

11. Stop negative habits.

Our lives are a culmination of our habits – both positive and negative. Everything from cracking your knuckles and biting your fingernails, to driving to the gym and doing the laundry, is a habit. Consciously assess these habits and change those that need changing.

12. Stop holding onto past relationships.

This can be a hard one, especially if it involves the loss of someone that we loved. But we can’t truly embrace the great relationships waiting for us if we are reliving those that have since gone. We must move on while remaining open to those that come into our lives.

13. Stop rejecting love because of past hurt.

Just as we can’t truly embrace great relationships when holding onto addiction to a failed relationship, we can’t truly embrace great love when holding onto love that has since faded. This includes continuously thinking about those that have hurt us and perhaps betrayed our love and trust.

14. Stop holding onto negative beliefs about money.

Believe it or not, negative beliefs from people around us (including family and friends) are what hold us back from attracting money. A great source for information about this is the “Law of Attraction” (or LOA), a widely-embraced school of thought derived from Abraham Hicks. Money will not solve all or your problems, nor is it evil – it is our belief about money that makes it so.

15. Stop believing the negative labels – from others and yourself.

Some of us have a tendency to label people by characteristics that they show consistently. Likewise, we also label ourselves. Remember: the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Labels are, in no way, indications of a person’s true character.

16. Stop accepting your circumstances if they are hurting you.

It doesn’t matter what the circumstance is that’s currently causing harm…it doesn’t have to be that way. While it may indeed take some emotional strength and resilience to escape the situation, doing so will restore us. Get out of the hurtful situation…immediately.

17. Stop following the crowd – take the path that is right for you.

We see crowd-following almost from the time we’re able to perceive the world. Kids follow other kids at school, do the same things and get into the same trouble. Adults follow a particular group of people, hoping to be accepted and appreciated. Part of this is genetic and part is the environment, but this fact remains: in being ourselves, we create our own path…

18. Stop trying to be a people pleaser.

Some people have the innate tendency to make people laugh, bring people together, or be the center of people’s attention – this is different… this is natural. However, going against the grain of our being and forcing ourselves to please people is not. This is another area where we need to be ourselves and not what others expect (or what we think they expect) of us.

19. Stop focusing on what you do not want.

Most of what we focus on is manifested in our lives. No, this doesn’t mean by focusing on money itself will magically produce money! However, focusing on the work needed to create money will indeed create it. Likewise, focusing on what makes us unsatisfied manifests itself in our disposition and how we approach the world. Focusing on what makes us happy, and disregarding the things that do not will ultimately produce success and fulfillment.

20. Stop perfectionism.

We could write a book on this topic, but suffice to say that perfectionism is not a virtue. Perfection is a myth…there is no such thing but in creation itself (and there are even arguments against that). However, there is excellence – doing the best we can do in everything. Excellence is what we should strive to achieve.

21. Stop being idle.

Idleness is damaging because it gives us too much time to think. We continuously replay our thoughts on what we should do…and nothing gets done. Next time this happens, don’t think so much…just take action.

Join the conversation in the comments, or join us on Facebook to discuss.

9 Ways to Naturally Prevent Depression

November 19, 2014 by Power of Positivity

Dealing with depression and low moods can sometimes seem insurmountable, but you may be able to take some simple steps to naturally improve your mood. The way we feel is intricately tied to both our actions and our bodies. By improving factors such as sleep, exercise, and diet, you can improve your mood and help to prevent depression.

Please note that a doctor or professional psychologist is the best person to advise you about your health, particularly if you are suffering from serious depression. These tips, however, should help most everyone to boost their mood and find some extra happiness.

If you’re going through hell, keep going. – Winston Churchill

9 Ways to Naturally Prevent Depression:

1. Sleep Well Every Night

Sleep affects everything we do. It not only gives us energy for the day but is tied to the chemicals in our body. Multiple studies prove that disturbed sleep or reduced sleep results in impaired function and mood. In the short term, a lack of sleep can create stress, irritability, and short-temperedness. Difficulty sleeping has also been linked to long-term psychiatric and psychological problems. According to a study published in Biological Psychiatry, between 15% and 20% of people diagnosed with insomnia go on to develop major depression. This means that getting a solid 7-9 hours of sleep every night is extremely important to your mental health and emotional well-being.

It’s important to establish a regular cycle of sleeping, which is linked to something called circadian rhythms in the body. You can sleep better when you go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day, and this will help your body to produce more regular amounts of melatonin and serotonin, two important mood regulators. For more tips to help you find more restful sleep, check out our article on getting peaceful sleep no matter how stressed you are.

2. Surround Yourself with Positive Outlets Throughout the Day

Surrounding yourself with positivity will go a long way towards improving your mood. When we spend a lot of time focusing on our worries and stress, our mood is bound to go down. It’s important to dedicate some time every day to being around things we enjoy, that makes us happy. There are many ways to do this. Spend time with people who make you smile and who help you to look on the bright side of life. Visit your favorite places, or include pictures of them around your working and living space. Give yourself some time to enjoy your favorite habits.

You can even surround your social media activity with positivity. You can follow profiles and pages that regularly post positive information, such as the Power of Positivity page.

3. Stay Active and Exercise

Exercise is strongly linked to mood. In an article for the American Psychological Association, James Blumenthal, a clinical psychologist at Duke University, stated, “There’s good epidemiological data to suggest that active people are less depressed than inactive people.” Exercise helps to relieve stress and anxiety in both the short and long term and in multiple studies has been linked to improved long-term mood and reduced risk for psychological problems. Exercise will also help to give you energy and stay focused. Particularly if you are working at a desk all day, it’s important to take some time for exercise. If you make exercise a regular part of your schedule, you’re likely to notice a positive change in mood.

4. Follow Your Passions

One of the best things you can do to make yourself happy is to follow your passions. Whether it’s a career or a hobby, give yourself the time and freedom to engage in it. Doing something that you care about will be extremely rewarding and will help you to feel happier and more fulfilled.

Engaging in a passion will fill your life with time spent doing something you enjoy and feel positive about doing. If you don’t know what you’re passionate about, take some time to try some new things. Look for classes in art, dancing, cooking, playing an instrument, martial arts, or anything else that sparks your interest.

Learning something new is also a great way to create excitement and boost your mood.

5. Get at Least 15 Minutes of Sunshine per Day

Sunshine is important to provide you with vitamin D. Recent studies link vitamin D deficiency with depression. Getting outside for at least 15 minutes every day will deliver some important vitamin D to your body. If you’re inside working for most of the day, take a short break to go for a walk outside. If you can take more time to exercise or relax outside, that’s even better. Spending time outside will also help you to feel more energetic and refocused.

If you live in an area without a lot of sunshine or have a difficult working schedule, you can try taking a supplement to get some extra vitamin D.

6. Help Others

A number of surveys have shown that helping others results in feeling happier and more positive. This is the most effective when getting personally involved, rather than simply giving money. Try volunteering for a cause that matters to you, whether it’s a non-profit organization or simply an activity that helps other people. You may also be able to do something to help your friends or family. Simply lending a hand or giving a compliment can make both you and the others around you feel happier.

7. Eat Enough of the Right Fats

Omega-3 fatty acids have long been known to be important for heart health, but they may also be important for emotional health and mood disorders. A number of recent studies have suggested that omega-3s may help to treat a number of disorders, including depression, postpartum depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. This is because omega-3s are important to the central nervous system and help to transmit signals to the brain, and they may function as antidepressants.

Omega-3 fatty acids can be found naturally in salmon, sardines, herring, mackerel, anchovies, flax, and hazelnuts. You can also take in omega-3s through supplements such as fish oil, krill oils, and flaxseed (also known as linseed) oil.

8. Smile More Often

Sometimes showing outward signs of happiness will help you to feel genuinely happier. Expressions are linked to actual mood, and research has shown that smiling frequently can result in a lower heart rate and less stress. If you make a habit of smiling, you may find that you’re feeling happier and don’t have to make an effort to smile anymore.

9. Replace Negative Thoughts

Often, negative thoughts creep into our minds before we can stop them. Negative emotions such as anger and sadness are natural and often automatic. However, becoming aware of them and working to replace them with positive thoughts can greatly enhance your mood. Sometimes you need to let yourself feel a negative emotion; allow yourself to become aware of it and process it. That way, you can work towards resolving its cause and feel happier in the long-term.

For small annoyances and unfounded negative thoughts, you can replace negative feelings with positive ones. If you notice something negative about yourself, someone else, or about a situation, take a second to focus on something positive instead.

Final Thoughts on How to Prevent Depression

This may feel forced at first, but eventually, you’ll get in the habit of thinking more positively. This can make you feel happier every day.

5 Simple Ways to Overcome Seasonal Depression

November 18, 2014 by Power of Positivity

As winter weather approaches, there comes an inclination to stay inside, watch movies, bake, prepare for holidays, and do all the cozy things people love to do. This time of year usually means spending more time with family and friends, but also overshadows the fact that 1 in 6 people suffer from seasonal affective disorder (also known as seasonal depression.)

The good news is that even if you live in the coldest corners of the globe, you can combat seasonal depression with these 5 simple tips.

5 Simple Ways to Overcome Seasonal Depression

1 – Take Vitamin D Tablets

Many doctors believe that the lack of Vitamin D not only helps contribute to seasonal depression but can actually make it worse.

Vitamin D naturally occurs in sunlight, but in the winter months, people typically spend less time outdoors. Therefore, taking a Vitamin D supplement can be crucial to keeping a positive mood. You can also get Vitamin D in certain foods, such as portabella mushrooms. Just by eating 100g of these types of mushrooms, you will get 74% of the recommended daily value of Vitamin D.

Make sure to stock up on some supplements before the winter months hit so you can keep your spirits high even on the coldest days.

2 – Spend Time in Nature

Just because the sun goes into hiding, doesn’t mean your happiness has to!

Even if it’s cold outside, the sun still shines every day, which means you can still get out to enjoy the beauty and positive energy of nature. Spending just thirty minutes a day outdoors has been proven to boost people’s moods and give them a sense of calm and peace. Nature keeps us grounded and even heals our minds and bodies. Even if you have to bundle up with three jackets and a couple of leg warmers, you will still benefit greatly from a short walk in nature.

As tempting as it may be, don’t go into hibernation in the winter. Keep doing outdoor activities you enjoy, such as walking, biking, skating, hiking, or running. There’s nothing like getting back to nature to disconnect from the social realm and reconnect with the Earth and everything around you.

3 – Practice Daily Affirmations

Your mind is very powerful, and your thoughts can determine what type of day, week, or even year you will have. By instilling positive thoughts into your mind, you will soon start believing them. By believing them, you will then become your thoughts, which become your reality. A good day starts with good thoughts. So, next time you feel depressed, just write down one of your favorite positive quotes, and stick it on your mirror or somewhere you will see it easily.

You can even keep a daily positive affirmations journal and/or have some quiet meditation time each day where you remind yourself of these positive thoughts. Most people forget about their own healing power when looking for a remedy for seasonal depression. Don’t discount your own ability to heal yourself; people do it every day through the power of positive thoughts, and you can easily start your own practice of using daily affirmations to keep a positive mindset throughout winter.

To start, just wake up with the thought that your day will be amazing, and that you are an amazing person. Once you tell yourself this enough, you will start to believe it and then be it! Repeat these affirmations in the mirror, with one hand on your heart and the other on your throat.

Everyone should develop some sort of positive habit such as affirmations – our own thoughts can truly be the best medicine.

4 – Get Social

Many people suffering from seasonal depression don’t spend enough time with family or friends and isolate themselves from the outside world. While it might be hard to battle the voice in your head telling you to stay inside and forget about everyone else, spending a little time with others each day can help fight off depression.

We are social creatures, after all, and function best when we spend some quality time with others each day. Try to get people together to do something you love, such as ice skating, crafts, shopping, or something else interactive and fun. Having a group of people over to bake holiday treats or watch Christmas movies is another good idea because you can still stay cozy at home while enjoying the company of others.

As much as you might want to stay huddled up in bed with coffee and Netflix, try thinking of ways to include others in activities that you enjoy as well. Just because the sun isn’t shining as much, doesn’t mean your inner light can’t shine! Others will also appreciate your efforts to organize a fun time that brings people together.

5 – Do Volunteer Work

The best gifts, especially the ones during the holidays, aren’t always the ones you get, but the ones you give. The winter months are a great time to volunteer for a local soup kitchen or homeless shelter. During the colder months, more people need a place to stay to shield themselves from harsh conditions in the winter. Giving back to the community not only makes others happy but will make you happy as well because you’re adding value to others’ lives. Giving back to the community also puts an emphasis on helping others first.

Many people suffering from seasonal depression can feel trapped in their own minds, and volunteering can take the attention off of your thoughts for a while and onto something else that brings a sense of purpose. Volunteering may open up some new doors for your career as well. Seeing how many people are happy because of your actions might even inspire you to start your own non-profit business.

Final Thoughts on Conquering Seasonal Depression

No matter what happens as a result of you choosing to volunteer your time for people in need, you will, at the very least, feel better than you did just sitting around the house. A key to keeping your spirits up in the cold winter months is staying active and doing things you enjoy. You could even start volunteering regularly after work, which will give you the opportunity to stay social and make new friends.

Join in the discussion:

These are just some of the ways to combat seasonal depression during the winter. Add to the value by sharing your own positive ways to overcome seasonal depression. Shine ON!

5 Natural Ways To Calm Your Mind

November 17, 2014 by Jeremy Bennett

Mind feel cloudy?

It’s fairly easy to allow the mind to run on autopilot every waking second. It’s also fairly easy to concentrate on all the negativity in the world. All we have to do is watch the evening news, read the newspaper, or open up our favorite news media app. But what most people do not realize is this type of negativity is actually draining us of vital energy and impacting our moods in a very real way.

What is the solution to this?

Resting the mind and concentrating on the good in the universe is key to attracting more positivity in our lives.

“All that you are is the result of what you have thought.” – Buddha

Here are 5 natural ways to calm your mind:

1. Look at something out of curiosity

Next time you feel stressed out, pause for a few minutes and pick up something around you. Let’s say it’s your TV remote. Analyze every single centimeter of that remote. Look at all the different colors, notice how it feels in your hand, and feel the texture of all the buttons. Turn the remote around and take notice of every corner, every shape, and then feel the weight of the remote in your hands.

How does this calm your mind? When you look at something out of curiosity all your attention goes on that one particular thing. And when your attention becomes focused, your mind cannot think about the stressful thoughts that cause you to feel stressed. Like magic, your mind relaxes and in return relaxes your body.

2. Listen

You may be surprised as to how many sounds your ears actually hear, but because your focus is elsewhere, you are not aware of the multitude of them. Right now stop reading this article for ten seconds and just listen to all the sounds around you……

You will notice many different sounds that you probably did not notice before. You may hear the humming of your ceiling fan, the birds chirping out on your front lawn, or the traffic outside your house. When you take notice of one sound, devote your attention to it. Then another sound will arise – devote all your attention to that sound, and so on.

When you give your full attention to the sounds around you the mind becomes present. It becomes aware. And when you are present and aware the mind becomes relaxed because it is no longer thinking. You will then start to notice that all these individual sounds were, up until this very point, background noise that you didn’t pay any attention to. But when you pay attention to these sounds each and every sound can be a portal that you can use to achieve stillness.

3. Breathe

Just breathe. Stop whatever you are doing for a few seconds and simply take ten long, slow breaths. Use your belly (diaphragm) to breathe rather than your chest. This is actually the way we are meant to breathe. According to Harvard Medical School, shallow breathing from the chest makes you feel short of breath which can lead to anxiety. If we breathe deeply from the diaphragm the body and mind start to relax.

Concentrate on your belly moving outwards as you breathe in and moving inwards as you breathe out. An easy way to make sure this is happening is to simply put your hand on your belly and feel it move outwards and inwards. Breathe slowly and concentrate on the sound you are making as you breathe. Pay full attention to this process and notice how you soon will feel more relaxed, still, and clear.

4. Feel gratitude

So much of the time stress originates from dwelling on the feeling of not having as much as your neighbor has, not being in the physical shape that you want to be in, or not feeling enough appreciation or love. In other words, it’s paying attention to what you don’t have as opposed to what you do have. It’s time to take things into perspective and start to give thanks for what you have. Maybe you don’t have as much financial freedom as you would like, but maybe you do have your health. Be thankful for that. Maybe you don’t feel enough appreciation from your spouse but maybe you do from your kids. Be thankful for that. No matter what situations we are going through we always have something to be thankful for.

When we start to feel appreciation for the things we currently have in our life, our mood starts to change and we actually start to attract more things to be thankful for. You cannot be thankful and complain at the same time. Always choose to be thankful.

5. Meditate

We have thousands and thousands of thoughts that occupy our minds every single day. Just like our muscles need rest, our minds do too. Meditation does not have to be mysterious. Meditation simply means that you are no longer thinking and are completely absorbed in the present moment. Go to a quiet place and sit in a comfortable chair. Make sure there are no distractions around you and simply start to breathe slowly, in through your nose and out through your mouth. Breathe with your diaphragm and not your chest as we talked about in step number 3.

As you begin to relax, bring your attention to your feet. You’ll start to feel them in some capacity; maybe a little tingle, a little warmth, or coolness. Allow yourself to be engulfed in this feeling. When you are registering how a particular body part feels, your focus will not allow you to simultaneously think about something else.

Afterward, move to your legs until you feel your legs in some capacity. Move upward throughout your whole body, one body part at a time. This is a wonderful meditation that not only rests your mind but also rests your body.

You have the ability to greatly reduce stress and anxiety. Resting your mind is one of the most important steps you can take in attracting a healthy life.

Add to the discussion:

How do you rest your mind when it feels too busy? Share your favorite techniques in the discussion below!

4 Beliefs You Must Have to Attract True Love

November 17, 2014 by Kristen Butler

Does true love really exist? And if so, what common beliefs do individuals have to create such a beautiful, harmonic union?

Today, the divorce rate is rising, with nearly one divorce for every marriage. Many people are getting married without a solid, inner foundation. The only ideas about marriage are based on what we’ve witnessed growing up. For many of us, it wasn’t the fairy tale scene – so we wander around looking for the love of our life instead of diving in and being it.

Most people think all they need to do is follow their hearts to find true love, and the rest will follow. But who you are before you fall in love is essential. You must have key beliefs to attract true love into your life.

Here are 4 Beliefs You Must Have to Attract True Love:

1. Believe you are worthy of unconditional love

The relationships you create are mirrors of who you are. It’s the law of attraction at work. Therefore, relationships are only as strong as the beliefs you have about yourself. You will receive it when you believe you are worthy of unconditional love.

Loving yourself fully, even with your imperfections, is very important. If you don’t love yourself fully, how can you expect someone else to? When you come to love yourself unconditionally, believe in your own worthiness, and remain open to receiving it from others, you will!

2. Believe in yourself

Treat yourself the way you want someone else to treat you. Most of us are harsh on ourselves and our own abilities. Believing in ourselves and being our best friend attracts a lover who will compliment us, not complete us. Looking for someone to fill the gaps may bring a temporary lover, but not a lasting one. You are whole, exactly as you are. When you believe in yourself and care about your needs, your lover will also. You will no longer stand for being treated harshly, and you will no longer attract it either.

Just remember, treat yourself the way you would want your lover to treat you. Think kind thoughts; say kind, loving words; do thoughtful things. If you would get offended if a friend or lover would say it, then don’t say it to yourself!

3. Believe in finding the right partner

Sometimes, people can be bad at knowing what they want (or need) in a relationship. Most of the time, society says to let romance be the guide. Instead of shining the flashlight outward, staggering around blankly looking for “the one,” shine it inward. Look for the qualities you want in another in yourself. Find the common denominator if you’ve had past relationship problems, possibly even a cycle of them. Then, look within you and find the darkness that needs the light.

The cycles we encounter in relationships are less about the other person and more about ourselves. They are guiding us towards a lesson we must go within and learn. For example, if you feel ignored or neglected in a relationship, you may abandon yourself at some level. Go within and find out (listening to your intuition) how you can show up more for yourself, too.

When you believe you can find the right partner, and exhibit the same characteristics you seek, you will be closer to true love.

4. Believe that relationships can last

It’s important to believe in the value of a relationship and the potential happiness and lifelong fulfillment it can bring into your life, regardless of the statistics.

Most of us have witnessed divorce, either within our own family or of relatives or friends. Although these relationships had nothing to do with us, they subconsciously created a validation that relationships don’t last. Perhaps even that divorce is inevitable.

It’s easy to be negative and doubtful about relationships – breakups and dysfunctional marriages are everywhere. But it takes strength and a fresh perspective to believe in happily ever afters again.

Of course, every relationship has its difficult times. That’s life. The struggles help us learn and grow. But, to believe in the ability to have a caring, supportive, loving partner that can be there for us unconditionally is important. In fact, it’s vital for us to believe and align ourselves with the truth of that reality to be able to attract it and live it.

That’s the magic of life, to believe in the good and strive to create the best possible life. Inner work will always transform our outer world. Most of the work to have a lifelong love is done before you ever even meet that person.

By applying these four major belief systems to your life, you will absolutely shift your focus and attraction to the lover you desire.

If you’re already in a relationship, these four beliefs can also absolutely help transform it. In fact, by implementing these beliefs, you might even fall in love all over again. All in all, healthy, lifelong relationships are good for each individual’s mental, physical, and spiritual wellbeing.

Add to the discussion:

How have you used positive belief systems about yourself to help attract the love of your life?

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Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!

10 Simple Ways to Supercharge Your Immune System

10 Natural Ways to Boost Your Immune System and Eliminate Sickness:

1. Eat a Healthy Diet

2. Get Plenty of Rest

3. Exercise

4. Get Plenty of Vitamin C

5. Drink Water, Water, and More Water

6. Drink Herbal Tea

7. Oil of Oregano

8. Apple Cider Vinegar

9. Neti Pot

10. Eat Foods Rich in Zinc

Your Turn…Do You Have Any Immune System Boosts?

Here are 21 actions and behaviors to stop that are crucial to your world of inner peace.

1. Stop feeling sorry for yourself.

2. Stop feeling sorry for others, too.

3. Stop trying to buy love and happiness.

4. Stop spending time with negative and critical people.

5. Stop every kind of lie.

6. Stop procrastinating.

7. Stop running from your problems.

8. Stop denying what makes you happy.

9. Stop being what other people expect you to be.

10. Stop living in the past and/or the future.

11. Stop negative habits.

12. Stop holding onto past relationships.

13. Stop rejecting love because of past hurt.

14. Stop holding onto negative beliefs about money.

15. Stop believing the negative labels – from others and yourself.

16. Stop accepting your circumstances if they are hurting you.

17. Stop following the crowd – take the path that is right for you.

18. Stop trying to be a people pleaser.

19. Stop focusing on what you do not want.

20. Stop perfectionism.

21. Stop being idle.

9 Ways to Naturally Prevent Depression:

1. Sleep Well Every Night

2. Surround Yourself with Positive Outlets Throughout the Day

3. Stay Active and Exercise

4. Follow Your Passions

5. Get at Least 15 Minutes of Sunshine per Day

6. Help Others

7. Eat Enough of the Right Fats

8. Smile More Often

9. Replace Negative Thoughts

Final Thoughts on How to Prevent Depression

5 Simple Ways to Overcome Seasonal Depression

1 – Take Vitamin D Tablets

2 – Spend Time in Nature

3 – Practice Daily Affirmations

4 – Get Social

5 – Do Volunteer Work

Final Thoughts on Conquering Seasonal Depression

These are just some of the ways to combat seasonal depression during the winter. Add to the value by sharing your own positive ways to overcome seasonal depression. Shine ON!

Here are 5 natural ways to calm your mind:

1. Look at something out of curiosity

2. Listen

3. Breathe

4. Feel gratitude

5. Meditate

Add to the discussion:

Here are 4 Beliefs You Must Have to Attract True Love:

1. Believe you are worthy of unconditional love

2. Believe in yourself

3. Believe in finding the right partner

4. Believe that relationships can last

Add to the discussion:

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Rise and Shine On! Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist

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Us

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!

Rise and Shine On!
Master Your Day with the Ultimate Positive Morning Guide + Checklist