Category: Maintenance

Book Review: Simple Happiness – 52 Easy Ways to Lighten Up by Jim Ryan

Maintenance / Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body

Simple Happiness – Spreading Joy One Day at a Time

“Simple Happiness” by Jim Ryan serves as a beacon of light for those lost in the complexities of life, yearning to reclaim the simplicity of joy. Each of the 52 ways to elevate your mood and perspective is a testament to the belief that happiness isn’t as elusive as it seems—it’s merely a few thoughtful changes away.

Ryan’s methodology is grounded in the day-to-day; it illuminates the overlooked corridors of comfort within our reach. From the power of a smile to the underestimated art of listening, his examples resonate deeply, often masked as mundane interactions. This book breaks down happiness into manageable pieces—bite-sized wisdom for the soul, digestible weekly or daily.

The section of compassion, beautifully illustrated through Ryan’s unreciprocated greeting to his neighbor, touched me personally. It’s a poignant reminder that compassion isn’t about what we expect, but accepting others as they are. Such offerings of goodwill ripple outwards and, ultimately, reflect the very essence of what it means to be human.

May this book find a place on your shelf—from the optimist seeking affirmation to the pessimist looking for a spark. Ryan’s personable and practical advice transcends the boundaries of age, culture, and status. I believe families, professionals, and students alike can benefit from these 52 simple yet profoundly effective stratagems.

With a style that’s both conversational and convincing, “Simple Happiness” becomes more than a read—it’s an experience. I recommend savoring each section to digest the accompanying wisdom fully. Jim Ryan has not only captured the essence of joy but also wrapped it in the warmth of everyday life.

In today’s fast-paced world, Ryan’s book is an essential tool in fostering an environment of positivity and contentment. To those willing to invest a few minutes each day or week, “Simple Happiness” offers hopeful clarity in return. Reading this book could very well be the gentle nudge your happiness has been waiting for.

Get your copy of Jim’s book here.

Natural Remedies for Migraine Relief: A Guide for Sufferers

Blog / Healing / Maintenance / Strong Body

Play Audio of this Article: Natural Remedies for Migraine Relief

Migraine pain is one of the worst experiences that one can go through. This neurological condition causes intense, throbbing headaches that can be debilitating. If you suffer from migraines, you know how it can ruin your day-to-day activities and can make you feel helpless. Pain medication can help relieve symptoms, but natural remedies can be helpful as well. So, in this article, we’ll discuss the best natural remedies for migraine relief, including some best practices that can help reduce the frequency of migraines.

Magnesium: Increasing magnesium intake has been found to be effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of migraines. This mineral helps relax the muscles and nerves and can prevent migraines. You can increase your magnesium intake by eating foods such as nuts, leafy greens, and dark chocolate. Taking supplements may also be necessary.

Recommendations: Life Extension Neuro-mag Magnesium L-threonate

Ginger: Ginger is an anti-inflammatory herb that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for pain relief. It has a calming effect on the body, which can help reduce the frequency of migraines. Consuming fresh ginger or taking ginger supplements can provide relief from migraines.

Recommendations: Ginger Root Extract Powder – Herbal Extract

Essential Oils: Essential oils such as peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus have a calming effect that can help relieve pain and promote relaxation. Applying diluted essential oils to your temples or inhaling them through diffusers can be helpful. However, always dilute them before applying them to the skin.

Recommendations:

MAJESTIC PURE Peppermint Essential Oil

Majestic Pure Lavender USDA Organic Essential Oil

MAJESTIC PURE Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Carrier oil: All essential oils need to be used with a carrier oil to dilute them. 4-Piece Carrier Oil Variety Pack Gift Set – Essential Oil Mixing

Yoga and Meditation: Practicing yoga and meditation regularly can help reduce stress, a significant trigger for migraines. These practices can help increase blood and oxygen flow throughout the body, providing pain relief and relaxation to the muscles and nerves.

Exercise: Regular exercise can also help reduce stress and relieve migraines. It helps regulate blood flow in the body, which can help prevent symptoms from developing. Choose low-impact exercises like walking or cycling, which can be helpful in providing relaxation and pain relief.

Migraines can be prevented and managed with natural remedies. Incorporating these remedies into your daily routine can help reduce the frequency of migraines and provide relief from the pain. However, it is essential to note that natural remedies may not suit everyone. If you’re experiencing migraines regularly, you must speak with your doctor before trying any natural remedies. Additionally, making some lifestyle changes like regularly sleeping and eating a balanced diet can help prevent migraines. Remember to try different remedies until you find what works best for you. So, give these remedies a try, and you may find that your migraines become more manageable!

How to Meditate – for Beginners

Healing / Maintenance / Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body / Therapeutic

If you’ve ever wondered how to meditate but weren’t sure where to start, then this blog post is for you. Meditation is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries to relax both your mind and body. It can also help to improve your emotional well-being and mental clarity.

Good News!

The good news is that anyone can learn how to meditate, regardless of experience or background. All it takes is a few simple steps and soon enough you’ll be on your way to reaping the many benefits that meditation has to offer.

Step One

The first step is to find a comfortable spot where you won’t be disturbed. This could be anywhere from your bedroom floor to a park bench. Once you’ve selected your spot, sit in a comfortable position with your legs crossed and your back straight.

Step Two

The second step is to close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Take deep breaths through the nose and slow exhales through the mouth. Feel each breath as it enters and leaves your body, letting any distracting thoughts drift away.

Step Three

Finally, allow yourself to relax and let go. Don’t focus on anything but instead stay open and spacious, allowing yourself to just be present in the moment.

Now that you know the basics of how to meditate, it’s time to start reaping its many benefits! With regular practice, you’ll soon start to notice positive changes in your physical and mental health. From improved focus to reduced stress levels, you’ll be amazed at the effects meditation can have on your wellbeing.

This Post is for you:

Why We Meditate

Power of Music on Mood and Health

Eat This for Brain Function

Join us Socially:

Twitter

My Favorite Meditation:

Why We Meditate

Healing / Maintenance / Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body / Therapeutic

Meditation is a practice of mindfulness that involves focusing the mind on the present moment while letting go of all thoughts and worries. This ancient practice has been used for centuries to help people find inner peace and balance. In today’s fast-paced world, it can be even more beneficial, as it helps us to take a break from our busy lives and reconnect with ourselves and our environment. Let’s dive into why we meditate.

Why Meditation is Good for You

The benefits of meditation on both mind and body are numerous. When we take the time to meditate, it can help us to cultivate a heightened sense of focus and concentration, as well as reduce stress levels. Our emotional wellbeing and mental clarity will also improve from regular practice.

At a physical level, meditation can have a positive impact on our bodies. It can lower blood pressure, improve immune function, and even reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. In addition, meditation can help to enhance our physical performance by increasing stamina and improving breathing techniques.

Overall, the benefits of meditation are vast and diverse. If you’re looking for a way to relax your mind and body, it’s worth giving this ancient practice a try. From improved focus to reduced stress levels, you’ll be amazed at the effects meditation can have on your well-being.

Check out these posts:

How to Meditate – for Beginners

Power of Music on Mood and Health

Eat This for Brain Function

Join us Socially:

Twitter

My Favorite Meditation:

Forgive For Your Health

Healing / Maintenance / Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body

A couple years ago I was injured in an accident. Very soon afterward I called my mother. Her advice: “Forgive the other driver or you will never heal.” It turns out my mother was right (So not shocked there.), and here is the info that backs her up.

The upshot: Forgive and Heal

Holding a grudge, refusing to let go of bad feelings, constantly thinking about and seeking revenge for real or perceived harms exacts a tremendous toll, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. On the other hand, when we release the baggage of negativity and forgive others, we’re set free from that toxicity. Feelings of hurt, helplessness and anger naturally dissipate – whether or not the person forgiven forgives in turn or even knows they’ve been forgiven. Research published in the journal Aging & Mental Health found that forgiveness has a protective factor in health and well-being. In particular, said the authors, self-forgiveness among older women was protective for depression, when the reported feeling unforgiven by others.

Read the full article here.

Walk Yourself Into Shape

Healing / Maintenance / Strong Body

How much walking does it take to see health benefits? Studies suggest 150 minute per week to drop your chances of death and heart disease by 20%.

Working out regularly can extend your life, ward off heart disease and various cancers, rebuild the muscle and bone strength lost with age, and reduce levels of anxiety and depression.

Perhaps best of all, you can start to get all those benefits just by deciding to regularly go for a walk.

 

Read all about it here.

Gut Health for Under $20? Sign Me Up!

Healing / Maintenance / Strong Body

Ran across this little gem in my RSS feed this morning. Here is the skinny.

  1. Green leafy veggies (kale, spinach, etc.) for a prebiotic boost.
  2. Cruciferous veggies (broccoli, cabbage and whatnot) feed the good bacteria in your gut.
  3.  Sweet potatoes, more prebiotics.
  4. Coconut milk, increases intestinal permeability.
  5. Berries, improves gut microbiome and adds fiber.
  6. Flax seeds for fiber, Omega-3, and it aids digestion. Chia is a good substitute.
  7. Walnuts, fiber packed they actual alter gut microbial community. In a good way.

Read all about it here.

Intermittent Fasting for Women

Healing / Maintenance / Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body

Intermittent fasting has a whole host of good things. While you deny your body of food, it heals and rebuilds (autophagy), it burns fat for weight loss, and it improves glucose tolerance. However, this article reveals that these benefits may not be as robust and in some cases reversed in women during childbearing years.

Studies show that intermittent fasting for women within childbearing years actually have disturbed sleep patterns, loss of lean muscle mass instead of fat during training, stimulation of the Sympatheic Nervous System (fight or flight response), resistance to autophagy, reduces glucose tolerance, weight gain, and infertility. Not cool. Maybe wait on the intermittent fasting until Menopause.

As it stands right now, I’d be inclined to agree that pre-menopausal (and perhaps peri-menopausal) women are more likely to have poor—or at least different—experiences with intermittent fasting (at least as a weight loss tool).

New Buzz Word: Inflammation, What Is It?

Healing / Maintenance / Strong Body

Everyone’s talking about inflammation and how bad it is……. but, do you know what it is, really? Here is a great article about it and how your diet can help reduce it. 

 

In broad terms, inflammation is the body’s immune system’s response to a stimulus.This can be in response to common injuries such as burning your finger, or falling off of a bicycle, after which you feel the affected area become red, warm, and puffy- this is a localized response to injury, characterized by ‘increased blood flow, capillary dilation, leucocyte infiltration, and production of chemical mediators.’In short, an inflammatory response means the innate (non-specific) immune system is ‘fighting against something that may turn out to be harmful.’

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