How to create meaningful connections while apart
3 ways to help you be your best self in your relationship
IDEAS.TED.COM Mar 3, 2020 / Daniella Balarezo Glenn Harvey “Resentment is a relationship killer,” says psychotherapist and couples counselor Susan Adler. If we want happier relationships, we need to drop the blame, own our mistakes, and act in ways that increase connection, not conflict. This post is part of TED’s “How to Be a Better Human” series, each of which contains a […]
Millie Bobby Brown Opens Up About the Media and Her Mental Health in a 16th Birthday Post
POPSURGAR.celebrity February 19, 2020by KARA KIA ← USE ARROW KEYS →Image Source: Getty / CHRIS DELMAS Millie Bobby Brown turns 16 today! While this is a milestone birthday for most, for Millie, it was an opportunity to open up about how the media has affected her mental health ever since she first starred as Eleven on Stranger Things. Millie was only 12 years young when she first appeared on the hit Netflix show. It’s no secret that child stardom is not the kindest to the mental health of young actors. For Millie’s 16th birthday, she shared a poignant post on Instagram. “There are moments I get frustrated from the inaccuracy, inappropriate comments, sexualization, and unnecessary insults that ultimately have resulted in pain and insecurity for me,” Millie wrote. “Not ever will I be defeated. I’ll continue doing what I love and spreading the message in order to make change. Let’s focus on what needs changing and I hope this video informs you on the things that go on behind the scenes of the headlines and flashing lights.” Millie’s statement was accompanied by a video montage. Set to the soundtrack of “Changes” by Justin Bieber, a series of screenshots featuring various critical media headlines appeared. “Stranger Things star leaves Twitter after cyberbullying,” “Millie Bobby Brown criticized for adult style,” and “When did Millie Bobby Brown go through the change??? (Menopause)” are just a few harsh headlines that the young actor has had to deal with. Keep reading […]
To The Teachers Of The World — This Is What Matters In The End — Guest Blogger One Mountain at a Time
As a virus spreads in our world and takes us into uncharted waters, shutting down schools and universities, we have to learn new coping mechanisms, new ways of thinking — and new ways of learning. Teachers across the world are learning what it means to remote teach. The stress was felt globally putting together last […] To The Teachers Of The World — This Is What Matters In The End — One Mountain at a Time
"#SoSC" Prompt for Week is "deep "
Thank you for stopping by today, times may be a bit crazy but we can pull thru anything together. We are one community and we can help others who need a hug. I’m sending my hugs to you. Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “deep.” Use it any way you’d like. Have fun! I love to […]
Friday Quote
I appreciate you stopping by today! Please keep your distance and wash, wash, wash your hands. We’ll get thru this together. Have a great weekend! Melinda
Shelter in Place, Social Distancing, Chronic Illness, No Problem
I started sheltering in place in 2013 when I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease. I spent three years on IV Therapy seven days a week and walked only to the bathroom and back. The years after IV Therapy was just as rough. I’ve been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, cognitive disfunction which includes lack of balance and Dementia. Dementia is the real […]
April is Sexual Assualt Awareness Month
April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Part of raising awareness around sexual assault is not only highlighting the work being done to bring it to an end, but also focusing on supporting the health and well-being of survivors. Especially during these weeks of uncertainty and isolation, we know that the pressure experienced by survivors of violence can significantly increase. Pain and […]
#Wordless Wednesday Playing with Color
Have a great day, I’m so glad you stopped by today. Melinda
10 tips for cultivating creativity in your kids — ideas.ted.com
Turns out, it’s less about “teaching” creativity to children — and more about creating a fertile environment in which their creativity will take root, grow and flourish. Researcher Mitch Resnick, director of the Lifelong Kindergarten Group at MIT, explains how we can do this. 10 tips for cultivating creativity in your kids — ideas.ted.com
Easy To Make Spiced Citrus Room Spray
Willow and Sage by Stampington Spiced Citrus Room Spray YOU WILL NEED 2 oz. witch hazel Glass spray bottle: 4 oz 14 drops orange essential oil 6 drops cinnamon essential oil 6 drops clove essential oil 4 drops ginger essential oil 2 oz. filter water TO MAKE Add the witch hazel to the spray bottle. Add the essential oils. Top […]
Easy To Make Your Own Essential Oils
Recipe from Willow and Sage by Stampington Making your own essential oil is easier than you think. Gather dried herbs and oil of choice. Dried herbs are better than fresh to prevent mold. Here are some single oils you can infuse along with their healing benefits. Calendula Oil–Use for any skin remedies, like in lotion or facial oil. Peppermint Oil–Wonderful for […]
Is Your Sleep Pressure High Enough Each Night When You Go to Bed for Sleep? —Guest Blogger Damon Ashworth Psychology
Although it may be difficult to sleep well with all that is going on around the world at the moment, good sleep is still possible. This article goes into one of the three things that you really need to sleep well on a regular basis. Is Your Sleep Pressure High Enough Each Night When You Go to Bed for Sleep? — Damon Ashworth Psychology
Friday Quote
I appreciate you stopping by today! Please keep your distance and wash, wash, wash your hands. We’ll get thru this together. Have a great weekend! Melinda
#Weekend Music Share ONE
Have a great weekend. Be Safe. M Welcome back to Weekend Music Share; the place where everyone can share their favourite music. Feel free to use the ‘Weekend Music Share‘ banner in your post, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
"#SoSC" Prompt for Week is "beside you"
Thank you for stopping by today, times may be a bit crazy but we can pull thru anything together. We are one community and we can help others who need a hug. I’m sending my hugs to you. Melinda Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “beside you.” Write about whatever is beside you when you read […]
#WATWB JOANN Stores are Handing Out Free Fabric Supplies at Curbside to Anyone Sewing Face Masks at Home
“…We hope to share the stories that show kindness, compassion, hope, overcoming challenges and in general, the impressive resilience of the human spirit. For every dark, negative story out there, there is a positive, heartwarming story that will add some light and lift the human spirit.” Belinda Witzenhausen Goodnewsnetwork.org By Andy Corbley – Mar 24, 2020 In a national emergency, some people’s initial […]
Easy To Make Calming Oil
Willow and Sage by Stampington This combination smells lovely and helps to soothe anxious feelings. You can keep one in your purse to have on hand throughout the day. YOU WILL NEED Carrier oil: fractionated coconut oil/grapeseed oil/jojoba oil Glass roller bottle 10-ml. 6 drops lavender essential oil 6 drops orange essential oil 6 drops patchouli essential oil 4 drops […]
Easy to make Soothing Bath Salts *Great for Chronic Pain
Willow and Sage by Stampington Great for people who suffer from chronic pain. For an additional benefit add apple cider vinegar to water when running the bath. You Will Need 4 cups Epsom salt 1/2 cup sea salt (optional) 25-30 drops of essential oils 3/4 cup baking soda Large Bowl Airtight containers To Make Mix the Epsom salt, sea salt, […]
Things You Can Do to Stay Mentally Healthy During Self-Isolation — Guest Blogger Damon Ashworth Psychology
With the COVID-19 pandemic, we are now being told that the most helpful thing we can do is stay at home and remain physically distant from others. Unless you are in an essential profession, this could be a time to slow down. To check in with those that you care most about. To chat for longer and to connect emotionally. To reflect on your life and rediscover what really matters to you. To hope and dream and plan for a better future. And to try things that you otherwise may not have had the chance or the time to do. Things You Can Do to Stay Mentally Healthy During Self-Isolation — Damon Ashworth Psychology
Yale's Popular Happiness Class Is Now Available Online for Free — Here's What It Entails
The course, taught by psychology professor Laurie Santos, focuses on understanding happiness in life By Eric Todisco March 24, 2020 10:55 AM Yale University has the perfect solution to keeping happiness alive amid the trying times of the coronavirus pandemic. The Connecticut-based Ivy League college is making its widely-popular “happiness” course available online for free via Coursera. According to Yale’s news site, the online […]
Using Essential Oils to Ease Headache Pain
Spring 2019 Willow & Sage by Stamptington Headaches fall into four categories-migraine, tension, sinus, or sugar and each category can be treated with essential oils to ease the pain. A migraine is often caused by insomnia, stress, anxiety, or hormonal changes, while a tension headache usually comes from stress or strain. A sinus headache occurs when the nasal passages […]
Easy To Make Citrus Salt Scrub
Willow and Sage by Stampington By Sarah Hauser You will need: YIELDS 12 oz. 1 cup fine sea salt 1/2 cup grapeseed oil Bowl 15-20 drops citrus essential oils Jar To Make: Mix together the sea salt and the grapeseed oil in a bowl or jar. Add essential oils, and mix well. Transfer to a jar for storing or gifting. […]
What is Hypocalcemia? My latest diaognosis
Earlier in the month I was diagnosed with persistent Hypocalcemia. The lack of calcium can cause many problems but the most troubling to me at this time is more Osteoporosis which I already have in my hip and heart complications, which I already have several heart issues. Like everyone my appointment was pushed out and we wait out the social […]
"#SoSC" Prompt for Week is "welcome"
Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “welcome.” Use it any way you’d like. Have fun! I welcome the wet noise of my two loving dogs on this gloomy Saturday. I welcome the rain for making the ground so moist and easy to pull weeds this morning. Welcome are the bulbs planted that are popping their heads up in the dirt. Welcome is the day, I’m alive, well physically and mentally. Welcome is the love of my husband who always knows what I need before I do. Welcome is you stopping by today and reading this post. I hope your day is filled with sunshine, even if it’s self-made. Melinda Join us for the fun and sharing good media stories. For more on the Stream of Consciousness Saturday, visit Linda Hill’s blog. Here’s the link:https://lindaghill.com Here are the rules for SoCS: Your post must be stream of consciousness writing, meaning no editing, (typos can be fixed) and minimal planning on what you’re going to write. Your post can be as long or as short as you want it to be. One sentence – one thousand words. Fact, fiction, poetry – it doesn’t matter. Just let the words carry you along until you’re ready to stop. There will be a prompt every week. I will post the prompt here on my blog on Friday, along with a reminder for you to join in. The prompt will be one random thing, […]
Sad news today, Kenny Rogers has passed away.
Kenny Rogers brought so many great songs which created many good memories for me. He will be missed. M
#Weekend Music Share Every Kind of People
I appreciate you and so glad to be a part of your day. Melinda
Friday Quote
I appreciate you stopping by today! I never take you for granted. Please keep your distance and wash, wash, wash your hands. We’ll get thru this together. Have a great weekend! Melinda
150 Sensory Learning Ideas — Special Education and Guest Blogger Inclusive Learning
Free, Simple Sensory Home Learning Activities There are many options for home learning packs and ideas for children who can access worksheets and online teaching resources. Sensory learners need sensory learning ideas. Preferably simple and free ones. This list of 150 (ish) ideas should give you some ideas to try at home, EYFS settings and […] 150 Sensory Learning Ideas — Special Education and Inclusive Learning
I need help connecting my blog to Facebook-can you offer some simple instructions?
I set up my FaceBook account yesterday and my skills are at the most basic level. I went to the FAQ’s on WordPress and could not get connected. I have no doubt it’s user error. Since we’re social distancing, maybe some of you more advanced people can provide a more basic way for my to publish my blog on the […]
WPBlockTalk: A Free Online Event Focused on the Block Editor — The WordPress.com Blog
Join the WordPress community on April 2 for talks on the block editor, block development, and design in a world of blocks. WPBlockTalk: A Free Online Event Focused on the Block Editor — The WordPress.com Blog
Symptoms of Chronic Lyme
Lyme Symptoms Symptoms of Chronic Lyme may include: Musculoskeletal: joint pain or swelling or stiffness, muscle pain, shin splints, neck or back stiffness, migrating muscle pain or cramps, TMJ, neck creaks & cracks, tender soles. Reproductive: testicular pain/pelvic pain, menstrual irregularity, unexplained milk production (lactation), sexual dysfunction or loss of libido. Cardiac/Pulmonary: chest pain or rib soreness, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, pulse […]
Bill to Provide Service Dogs for Veterans with PTSD Passes House Unanimously
7 Feb 2020Military.com | By Dorothy Mills-Gregg A decade-long effort to have the Department of Veterans Affairs provide service dogs to veterans with mental health issues passed a major hurdle with House passage Wednesday. The Puppies Assisting Wounded Servicemembers, or PAWS for Veterans Therapy Act, would have the VA create a 5-year pilot to give grants to one or more organizations to train and provide service dogs to […]
Self-Care for Teens: a Boon for Mental Health
US News Raychelle Cassada Lohmann, ContributorFeb. 10, 2020 TEENS ARE GETTING TOO little sleep, not enough exercise and spending far too much time online. Research tells us so (if you need proof), and it’s also clear that when teens don’t take care of themselves, it can affect their mental health. (FUSE/GETTY IMAGES) That’s all the more reason parents should teach their […]
My Fibromyalgia Exercise Plan — Guest Blogger Spoonie Lifestyle
Disclosure: Bear in mind that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. Keep in mind that I link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your […] My Fibromyalgia Exercise Plan — Spoonie Lifestyle
Anxiety Management During Pandemic Days~ —Guest Blog
Many of us are experiencing emotional distress from the pandemic which can affect each of us in different ways, but often presents as increasing anxiety, worry, sleep disruption, feelings of helplessness, panic, and/or depression. The shrieking headlines don’t help do they? So what can we do to manage these feelings and feel stronger emotionally and […] Anxiety Management During Pandemic Days~ —
My nightly self-care routine
I started taking my self-care routine to the next level about a year ago by going to bed at 8:00 P.M. every night. I spend roughly an hour unwinding, clearing the noise in my head so when my husband comes to bed I’m ready to go to sleep. I turn on my salt lamp, get the diffuser going with some […]
Friday Quote
I appreciate you stopping by today! Please keep your hands washed and don’t overreact, get the facts on what the signs are which need testing. Another important point, don’t go to the hospital. Call your doctor and have your doctor coordinate your arrival to protect others. Have a great weekend! Melinda
What Is Coronavirus (COVID- 19)?
It’s impossible to talk about travel right now without addressing coronavirus. As the COVID-19 virus continues to spread, sharing accurate information is crucial to both help stem fear and arm ourselves and our loved ones with knowledge. For this reason, we have created a guide on coronavirus, informed by reliable sources like the CDC and World Health Organization. Stay safe […]
MIGRAINE DISEASES MAKES NATIONAL HEADLINES
March 3, 2020/ U.S. Pain Foundation Headache and migraine diseases captured attention nationally throughout February thanks to features on ABC’s Good Morning America, CBS’s Sunday Morning Show, and PBS’s NewsHour. Members of the INvisible Project were highlighted on all three stations. On Feb. 25, Dr. William B. Young, a headache specialist at Jefferson Headache Center and contributing writer for the INvisible Project, discussed the reality and […]
National Endometriosis Awareness Month: My Story — Guest Blogger Spoonie Lifestyle
My endometriosis diagnosis story in honor of National Endometriosis Month. National Endometriosis Awareness Month: My Story — Spoonie Lifestyle
What is Hypogammaglobulinemia?
I’ve recently been diagnosed with the immune disorder Hypogammaglobulinemia which requires the expertise of an Endocrinologist doctor. My doctor isn’t sure how I contracted since I don’t fit any of the noted categories. My thoughts are it’s either my Lithium which I’ve taken for over 35 years or a result of Lyme Diseases. Lyme may sound like a stretch or crazy but one of the first things my PA told me is since Lyme has no cure and the virus is live in your body you will get other illnesses over time. So far she has been right. I have Fibromyalgia and full-body arthritis. Lyme isn’t a stretch to me. We’ll see as more testing is done. Like Lyme infusion treatment is necessary, some require only one treatment and others require ongoing infusion treatment. Hearing this makes me think of the nine months I spent on IV Infusion Therapy for Lyme. I am remaining optimistic only one injection will be needed. I’ll keep you posted and I learn more from the additional testing and meeting the Endocrinologist. Melinda Overview Hypogammaglobulinemia is a problem with the immune system that prevents it from making enough antibodies called immunoglobulins. Antibodies are proteins that help your body recognize and fight off foreign invaders like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Without enough antibodies, you’re more likely to get infections. People with hypogammaglobulinemia can more easily catch pneumonia, meningitis, and other infections that a healthy immune system […]
Personal Bill of Rights
I have the right to ask for what I want. I have the right to say no to request or demands I cannot meet. I have the right to express all of my feelings, positive or negative. I have the right to change my mind. I have the right to make mistakes and not be perfect. I have to right […]
About Coronavirus and Lyme
published 3/4/20 About Coronavirus (Covid-19) and Lyme Many people with and without Lyme are fearful of Coronavirus also called Covid-19. In my Seattle Lyme practice, I am answering questions about what one should do to protect themselves and to boost their immune systems. Many wonder if immune dysregulation, caused by Lyme, increases their chances of acquiring the virus, having a […]
Friday Quote
I appreciate you stopping by today! I never take you for granted. Have a great weekend! Melinda
#Wordless Wednesday
Have a great day, I so glad you stopped by today. Melinda
International Women’s Day 2020 —Guest Blog
International Women’s Day is celebrated on the 8th March every year. http://www.internationalwomensday.com This years theme is #EachforEqual – in other words, raising awareness of a gender equal world, as well as celebrating women’s achievements around the world. ”Let’s all be each for equal”is something many women around the world challenge. Expressing their individuality, debating stereotypes […] International Women’s Day 2020 —
Does CBD Topical Pain Cream Work?
I have been trying CBD products over the past two years but have not used topicals, not sure why but this week changed everything. I didn’t use the Redeem brand even though I did buy their Spray CBD. I had used several samples of topical CBD and that is not enough to know if relief can be found. I have […]
NATYLLE – DISCOVER THE ORGANIC BEAUTY PRODUCTS WITH CARE FROM GREECE — Guest Blogger Limitless Travelling With K
We live in an era when organic, biological products are highly valued. We are trying to buy organic vegetables and fruits, prefer organic supermarkets with bioproducts and increasingly enjoy bio-positive restaurants! And that’s AWESOME! After all, we are what we eat! I remember my childhood when I was sent to my grandmother in the village. […] NATYLLE – DISCOVER THE ORGANIC BEAUTY PRODUCTS WITH CARE FROM GREECE — Limitless Travelling With K
#WATWB After Decade of Historic Growth, Wind Power is Now the Most-Used Renewable Energy Source in US
By Good News Network – Feb 27, 2020 For the first time in U.S. history, the amount of electric power generated from wind in 2019 exceeded the amount sourced from hydroelectric. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s newly-released Electric Power Monthly, the exciting milestone means that wind is now the top renewable source of electricity generation in the country—a position previously held by […]
Friday Quote
I appreciate you stopping by today! I never take you for granted. Have a great weekend! M ” Each of us is born with a box of matches inside of us but we can’t strike them all by ourselves.” Laura Esquivel, Like Water For Chocolate
7 Years After My Diagnosis — Guest Blogger Lyme Light Fight
This week marks the 7 year anniversary of my diagnosis with Lyme Disease. Before that I lived with (or rather, slowly succumbed to) this debilitating disease for 5 years. After my diagnosis, it took another 3 years of treatment before I was finally Lyme-free. Then I relapsed a year later, but beat it again after […] 7 Years After My Diagnosis — Lyme Light Fight
Lyme Progress #9 Don’t Inspect–What To Expect
Update February 27, 2020 Warm weather is right around the corner, I know some of us are experiencing freezing weather but Spring is around the corner. The south will start to feel great outdoor weather in a matter of weeks. Lyme has left made my life hell, I don’t want you or anyone you love to go thru the same […]
Seven herbal medicines can kill Lyme disease bacteria in test tube
News LymeDisease.org 21FEB2020 Researchers have determined that seven herbal medicines are highly active in test tubes against B. burgdorferi, the bacteriathat causes Lyme disease, compared to the control antibiotics, doxycycline and cefuroxime. Published in the journalFrontiers in Medicine, the laboratory study was funded by the Bay Area Lyme Foundation and supported in part by The Steven & Alexandra Cohen Foundation. Researchers at Johns Hopkins […]
The Tick Expert on the Go
I found this app today and it sounds like a great resource, or the best resource we have to date. Please check it out. Melinda By: Bieneke Bron, Maria del Pilar Fernandez, Pallavi Kache, University of Wisconsin – Madison & Columbia University04 June 2019 According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number of people getting diseases transmitted by ticks, mosquitoes and fleas has tripled in recent years. Milder winters and warmer springs and falls are making matters worse by expanding the ticks’ range to new areas. Ticks are small but mighty adversaries. They represent a real threat to humans since they carry several infectious diseases, including the bacteria that causes typhus and Lyme disease (or Lyme borreliosis), which can be chronic and debilitating. These tick-borne diseases should be a serious concern if you live in a high-risk area, work with animals or spend a lot of time in nature, so you need to plan accordingly. If you might encounter ticks for any reason, then you should download “The Tick App” as your expert on the go. Since ticks are often found in rural or less populated areas, you may have trouble looking up information on the internet due to limited connectivity. With the app, you’ll have information readily available to understand tick prevention options, potential areas where you may encounter ticks, and most importantly, ways to remove ticks after exposure. Users in the Northeast and Midwest can use the […]
Friday Quote
Touched by Suicide
Twenty-eight years ago my father killed himself, I was twenty-eight years old. It’s strange that my father has been dead as long as he was alive in my life. I’ve written about his suicide many times over the years but this year feels different. It’s hard to put into words but I’ll share what words come to mind. I knew […]
A Mother Finds Her Chronic Pain Tribe
What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You Posted on January 11, 2020 by Jennifer Potter There was a time in my life when I was genuinely lonely. I reverently refer to it as my “whitewashed life” because for the outsider looking in, my actions gave the appearance of being pleasantly put together, all nice and clean. But the reality was that […]
PEDIATRIC PAIN WARRIOR PROGRAM REVEALS NEW VIDEO; POINTS FOR PAIN GAME SCHEDULED FOR FEB. 20
February 2, 2020/ U.S. Pain Foundation/ The Pediatric Pain Warrior Programis dedicated to helping kids with pain and their families feel less alone and empowered to take charge of their care. One of the ways it does this is through weekend retreats, the most recent of which was held this fall in Illinois. Approximately 75 kids with pain and their loved ones—more than […]
Friday Quote
Have a great weekend! M
#Wordless Wednesday My Gramps
My gramps died eight years ago today and I’m heartbroken still today. Melinda
Last Birthday Song
Every year after I left home my grandparents would get on the phone together and sing Happy Birthday to me. It became a much-loved family tradition. Eight years ago today my gramps died, before he slipped into a coma he sang his last words, Happy Birthday to my brother. It was a great gift to leave him. Eight years ago […]
HEARING ON MEDICAL CANNABIS IMPORTANT PROGRESS; TAKE ACTION TO ASK FOR SECOND HEARING
January 31, 2020/ U.S. Pain Foundation/ 0 Comments On Jan. 15, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on discrepancies between state and federal medical cannabis policy and federal roadblocks to clinical research. Many felt the conversation was long overdue. “I honestly never dreamed I would see, in my lifetime, such progress and discussion on the need for […]
Male Survivor Big Changes Coming
Since its founding 25 years ago, MaleSurvivor has played a leadership role in advocating for male survivors who have experienced sex abuse in any context, either as children or adults. Here’s a quick update:We’re planning our next major conference for 2021. It will mirror our groundbreaking series of biennial conferences that were available in years past. These events featured programs designed […]
Why the death of Kobe Bryant hits us so hard — and how to cope
We may not have known Kobe Bryant personally, but the grief some of us feel over his death is still very real. NBC NEWS NOW Jan. 28, 2020, 5:18 PM CST By Nicole Spector It’s November, 1996, and I’m 13 years old. My father and I are sitting court-side at the Los Angeles Forum as the Lakers take position. “Keep an […]
“#SoSC” Prompt for Week is “pack”
Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “(un)pack.” Use “pack” or its opposite in your post. Have fun! It didn’t take long to decide what direction to go with this post, unpacking. I started blogging in 2005 when my granny was very ill and I was able to unpack my fears of being a good caregiver with generous followers. Over time I opened up about my abusive background and mental health challenges, unpacking each delicate piece as my heart allowed. People embraced me, understood me and many were in the same place as me. By the time I started talking about my abusive background, it was to unpack the memories in hopes of helping others, I had already worked through the trauma with years of therapy. Unpacking my struggle with mental health is ongoing in there is no cure for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar 1. I haven’t written much lately since I’ve been stable for the past year. One topic I never expected to unpack was Lyme diseases, it took years of unknowns, misdiagnosis and quite frankly giving up at the time. But I have to say unpacking my experience with Lyme is the best move I’ve ever made. I made it my mission to educate everyone who would listen about Lyme and how common it was. I spent years, writing every week about my treatments or health updates. One of the horrible things about Lyme diseases is you get […]
#Weekend Music Share Every Kind of People
I appreciate you and so glad to be a part of your day. Melinda
Perfection is hard on our mental health — Guest Blogger Shedding Light on Mental Health
As hard as I try to hold myself to high standards, I’ve discovered I’m not a machine. I still look in the mirror and find a human being looking back at me, with all of my flaws, faults and positives as well. Sometimes I expect so much from myself, when I make a mistake or […] Perfection is hard on our mental health — Shedding Light on Mental Health
Friday Quote
Have a great weekend! M
2020 Migraine World Summit — Guest Blogger UndeniablySara
Save the date! The 9-day online Migraine World Summit will premiere from March 18 – 26, 2020. Get your free ticket now! 2020 Migraine World Summit — UndeniablySara
Homemade Makeup Remover
Willow and Sage by Stampington By Amy Knight You Will Need Carrier oil Dark Cloth To Use Dampen face with warm water. Apply small amount of oil to your hands and rub it all over your face, focusing on areas with heavy makeup. Rinse with water and wipe off your face with a dark cloth. Note You can use any carrier oil for this method. Certain oils work better for each skin type. Grapseeed or jojoba oil work great for once-prone skin, while sweet almond oil, sunflower oil, or olive oil work great for normal skin. Play around with the carrier oil to see which works best for you.
#Wordless Wednesday Pray for China
Please keep the healthcare workers in your mind, they give their lives to help those fighting this nasty virus. Melinda
#Wordless Wednesday Pray for Australia
Please keep Australia and New Zealand in your thoughts and prayers. Have a great day, I’m so glad you stopped by today. Melinda
9 Strategies To Prevent Falls In Seniors — Guest Blogger WHO’S CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER
As a home health nurse, I have done a lot of education on fall prevention. Falls can cause serious injury and even death to Senior citizens. According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and The most common cause of non-fatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. There […] 9 Strategies To Prevent Falls In Seniors — WHO’S CARING FOR THE CAREGIVER
FDA Approves Two New Medications to Treat Acute Migraine Attacks — Guest Blogger Chicago Headache Center & Research Institute
In the last six weeks two new oral medications have become available for the acute treatment of migraine. Reyvow (lasmitidan) was approved by the Food and Drug Aministration (FDA) October 11, 2019, but it has only recently been made available to prescribe. Ubrelvy (ubrogepant) was approved by FDA December 23, 2019, and is also now […] FDA Approves Two New Medications to Treat Acute Migraine Attacks — Chicago Headache Center & Research Institute
Medicare and Medicaid will cover Acupunture for Chronic Low Back Pain
Dear U.S. Pain Foundation volunteers, We are pleased to share that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will cover acupuncture for chronic low back pain (CLBP). The news comes following a series of open comment periods offered by CMS on the topic. We alerted our volunteers to the second comment period earlier this summer, and many of you took the time to respond. The second open comment period saw an impressive 644 submitted comments, most of them patients. (You can read U.S. Pain Foundation’s submitted comments here.) Why this mattersAs an organization, we support public and private payer coverage of acupuncture for people living with all diseases, injuries, and conditions that cause chronic pain. This decision validates the advocacy work of many of us in the pain community, who have been urging CMS to cover more nonpharmacological therapies for chronic pain. While this one modality may not help everyone with chronic low back pain, it’s important that patients have the opportunity to try it. It’s also important because Medicare coverage standards help inform private insurance policy. Who is eligibleCMS defines chronic low back pain as lasting 12 weeks or longer, and as being nonspecific, in that it has no identifiable systemic cause, is not associated with surgery, and is not associated with pregnancy. Under this new decision, up to 12 visits in 90 days are covered for Medicare beneficiaries who meet the criteria. An additional eight sessions will be […]
Flowly: Relaxation Training and 30 Day Trial
Dear pain warriors,Increased stress, anxiety, and trouble sleeping are common for people living with chronic pain. Unfortunately, stress, anxiety, and poor sleep can make pain worse, and vice versa. It’s a vicious cycle.That’s why we are delighted to share a new tool for managing anxiety, stress, and sleep, and by association, managing pain: Flowly: Relaxation Training. Flowly is an iPhone app that combines biofeedback and virtual reality (VR) using either just your phone or a bluetooth sensor. From the comfort of your home, Flowly lets you see how your heart rate and breathing change as you engage in VR. By being able to see your heart rate and breathing, you can learn to make changes in your body to reduce anxiety, reduce pain, and in some cases, even increase sleep and focus. In case studies, Flowly helped reduce pain an average of 46 percent after each session. It is currently partnering with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) on an upcoming clinical trial.One-month, risk-free trialFlowly understands how important it is to be able to try a therapy option before investing money in it. Here’s how their one-month, risk-free trial works: download the Flowly app and sign up for the monthly or annual subscription. Flowly will automatically send you a kit, including one VR headset and heart rate sensor (the cost of the kit is included in your subscription).If you wish to discontinue Flowly, just send back the kit before the end of the first month, and […]
“#SoSC” Prompt for Week is “choices”
Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “choices.” Base your post on the subject of making small, uneventful choices. Enjoy! We make so many choices in a day, it’s like we’re on auto pilot sometimes. Today I received a new pair of boots, I was wearing, admiring them, thinking what a great purchase I made. The doorbell rings, it’s a delivery, I step out and the storm door catches the front of my boot and make a three inch long scratch. There was a time when I would have gotten very angry, but as I age little choices are easier to make. A scratch on a boot is no big deal in the scheme of things and will probably get a few more as I wear them. I can just look at them as already worn in instead of shiny and new. Melinda Join us for the fun and sharing good media stories. For more on the Stream of Consciousness Saturday, visit Linda Hill’s blog. Here’s the link:https://lindaghill.com Here are the rules for SoCS: Your post must be stream of consciousness writing, meaning no editing, (typos can be fixed) and minimal planning on what you’re going to write. Your post can be as long or as short as you want it to be. One sentence – one thousand words. Fact, fiction, poetry – it doesn’t matter. Just let the words carry you along until you’re ready to stop. There […]
#Weekend Music Share
I’m so glad you stopped by today. I appreciate you and so glad to be a part of your day. Melinda
#WATWB Teacher Moved to Tears By Students Pooling Money to Replace His Stolen Shoes
By Good News Network – Jan 31, 2020 A group of middle schoolers from Bellevue, Nebraska is being praised across social media after they rallied together to surprise their teacher with a new pair of shoes. Earlier this month, Logan Fontenelle Middle School teacher Trey Payne was heartbroken to discover that his favorite pair of sneakers had been stolen out of his classroom. Since the shoes were also rather expensive, Payne’s students were particularly upset over the theft. The students then pooled their money in order to surprise their teacher with a brand new pair of replacement shoes—and Payne could hardly contain his emotions. In a video which has since been shared thousands of times across social media, Payne can be seen opening the shoebox and then promptly bursting into tears. “It’s more than a pair of shoes, it’s about doing things to build everyone up around you,” said Payne. “I try to show my kids this and I think the lesson has sunk in for many, in turn, reaffirming my purpose and my ideals.” (WATCH the tear-jerking video below) “We are the World” Blogfest” aims to spread the message of light, hope and love in today’s world. We are challenging all participants to share the positive side of humanity. This month’s co-hosts, Sylvia McGrath, Lizbeth Hartz, Shilpa Garg, Mary Giese, and Belinda Witzenhausen welcome participants and encourage all to join in during future months. #WATWB comes on the last Friday of every month. Click HERE for more information. You are always welcome […]
Friday Quote
” IF WE HAVE A PULSE, WE HAVE A PURPOSE.” Unknown
Can A Spine Stimulator Stop Chronic Pain?
After working with a Pain Management doctor for six months he’s determined I’m a good candidate for a Spine Stimulator. It works by leads placed in your mid-back attached to the implanted stimulation device, the stimulation disrupts the pain signals to the brain thus relieving the pain. I had my psychological evaluation yesterday and now waiting for insurance approval. My […]
#Weekend Music Share
I’m so glad you stopped by today. I appreciate you and so glad to be a part of your day. Melinda
“#SoSC” Prompt for Week is “last call”
Your prompt for #JusJoJan and Stream of Consciousness Saturday is: “last call.” Talk about the enterprise (sales or service) conducted by the last phone call you received from a business you’re not associated with (i.e. your workplace), or talk about that phone conversation itself. Have fun! There was a time when “last call” was a total bummer and often meant an end to a fun night of drinking. After 15 years of sobriety and not being in a bar at that hour the prompt “last call” didn’t get any reaction. There is a famous sale at Neiman Marcus called Last Call and you know about even if you don’t shop there. It’s a great time to pick through all the high end goods looking for that can’t pass up buy. I find myself looking for the diamond in the rough at below cost prices. Like most retail it’s not really a “last call’ it’s more of a siren to pull shoppers in. Have a great weekend. Thanks for reading, I appreciate you. Melinda Join us for the fun and sharing good media stories. For more on the Stream of Consciousness Saturday, visit Linda Hill’s blog. Here’s the link:https://lindaghill.com Here are the rules for SoCS: Your post must be stream of consciousness writing, meaning no editing, (typos can be fixed) and minimal planning on what you’re going to write. Your post can be as long or as short as you want it […]
Friday Quote
Here’s the truth about CBD, from a cannabis researcher
IDEAS.TED.COM Sep 23, 2019 / Jeffrey Chen, MD iStock Is CBD a cure-all — or snake oil? Jeffrey Chen, executive director of the UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, explains the science behind the cannabis product. CBD gummies. CBD shots in your latte. CBD dog biscuits. From spas to drug stores, supermarkets to cafes, wherever you go in the US today, you’re likely to see products infused with CBD. There are cosmetics, vape pens, pills and, of course, the extract itself; there are even CBD-containing sexual lubricants for women which aim to reduce pelvic pain or enhance sensation. CBD has been hailed by some users as having cured their pain, anxiety, insomnia, depression or seizures, and it’s been touted by advertisers as a supplement that can treat all of the above and combat aging and chronic disease. As Executive Director of the UCLA Cannabis Research Initiative, I’m dedicated to unearthing the scientific truth — the good and the bad — behind cannabis and CBD. My interest was sparked in 2014 when I was a medical student at UCLA, and I discovered a parent successfully treating her child’s severe epilepsy with CBD. I was surprised and intrigued. Despite California legalizing medical cannabis in 1996, we weren’t taught anything about cannabis or CBD in med school. I did research and found other families and children like Charlotte Figi reporting success with CBD, and I knew it was something that needed to be investigated. I established Cannabis Research Initiative in the fall of 2017, and today […]
There’s an art to happy memories — you can make more by experiencing more “first”s
IDEAS.TED.COM Jan 14, 2020 / Meik Wiking Jared Oriel Studies show we’re better at remembering the novel and the new, so let’s use this tendency to add to our storehouse of memorable and meaningful moments, says happiness expert Meik Wiking. Ask any older person to recall some of their memories, and there’s a good chance they will tell you stories from when they were between the ages of 15 and 30. This is known as the reminiscence effect, or reminiscence bump. Memory research is sometimes conducted by using cue words. If I say the word “dog,” what memory comes to mind? Or “book’? Or “grapefruit’? It’s best to use words that are not related to a certain period in life. For instance, the phrase “driver’s license” is more likely to prompt memories from when you were a specific age than the word “lamp.” In studies, when participants were shown a series of cue words and asked about the memories they associate with those words and how old they were at the time of the memory, their responses will typically produce a curve with a characteristic shape, the reminiscence bump. The recency effect — a final upward flip of the curve — can usually be seen, too. For example, when asked what memory comes to mind when cued with the word “book,” what people have read recently may pop up more easily than what they read 10 years ago. You can also see the reminiscence […]
#Wordless Wednesday
Have a great day, I so glad you stopped by today. Melinda
Mens Healing new video “Beyond Survival: Hope and Healing on Kilimanjaro”
Dear friends,“Beyond Survival: Hope and Healing on Kilimanjaro” is the 11th addition to the MenHealing library of videos that feature the healing journeys of male survivors. This 22-minute video chronicles the incredible journey of Weekend Of Recovery Alumnus Jordan Masciangelo’s successful climb to the 19,341 foot summit of Africa’s Mt. Kilimanjaro In January 2019 This Expedition Climb project was a labor of […]
Looking For The Light is Texas Ambassador for U.S. Pain Foundation
U.S. Pain Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with chronic conditions that cause pain. HERE ARE SOME OF THE PROGRAMS WE OFFER: Awareness & Advocacy Programs INvisible Project Advocacy Program Pain Awareness Month Points For Pain Medical Cannabis Program Support & Empowerment Programs Pain Connection Pain Ambassador Network Pediatric Pain Warriors Share Your Story […]
Looking For The Light is a proud member of the Chronic Illness Bloggers Network
Looking For The Light is a proud member of the Chronic Illness Bloggers Network. I joined six months ago and want to remind others who may be interested in joining or utilizing the resources they have available. If you suffer from a Chronic Illness and want more information or to join, you can find us at http://www.chronicillnessbloggers.com.
Dealing with the realities of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease
A Publication of the American Counseling Association DOWNLOAD By Bethany Bray Licensed professional counselor (LPC) Ruth Drew oversees the Alzheimer’s Association’s 24-hour helpline, which offers support to those facing the challenges of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, including families and caregivers. The fact that the helpline receives more than 300,000 calls each year hints at the heart-wrenching issues that accompany a dementia diagnosis, not just for the individual but for the person’s entire support system. “We receive a wide range of questions, from someone worried about the warning signs of cognitive decline or dealing with a new diagnosis, to an adult son whose mother didn’t recognize him for the first time, or a wife wondering how to get her husband with Alzheimer’s to take a bath. Whatever the reason for the call, we meet callers where they are and endeavor to provide the information, resources and emotional support they need,” says Drew, director of information and support services at the Chicago-based nonprofit. Professional counselors are a good fit to help not only individuals with dementia and Alzheimer’s, but also those in their care networks, Drew says. Whether counseling individuals, couples or even children, the far-reaching implications of dementia mean that practitioners of any specialization may hear clients talk about the stressors and overwhelming emotions that can accompany the diagnosis. “People diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and other dementia diseases are going through profound life changes — coping with the realities of an incurable disease […]
Hope For Depression Research Foundation, Inspired by the Hope in all of us
I found out about this exciting group from a fragrance advertisement for Hope, Hope Sport, and Hope Night, all available at Bergdorf Goodman.com. All net profits support Hope For Depression Research Foundation. Learn more at HOPEFORDEPRESSION.ORG Please check out their site, it’s packed full of information and resources. Melinda Our Mission The mission of the Hope for Depression Research Foundation (HDRF) is to fund cutting-edge, scientific research into the origins, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of depression and its related mood and other emotional disorders – bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, post-traumatic stress syndrome, anxiety disorder and suicide. In 2010, HDRF launched its Depression Task Force (DTF) – an outstanding collaboration of seven leading scientists, at the frontiers of brain science, from different research institutions across the U.S. and Canada. These scientists have developed an unprecedented research plan that integrates the most advanced knowledge in genetics, epigenetics, molecular biology, electrophysiology, and brain imaging. To accelerate breakthrough research, they share ongoing results, in real time, at a centralized data bank, the HDRF Data Center. HDRF was founded in April 2006 by Audrey Gruss in memory of her mother, Hope, who suffered from clinical depression. Every dollar raised goes directly to research. Founder’s Message My mother Hope suffered from depression for most of her late adult life. My sisters, father and I witnessed decades of misdiagnosis, trials of medication, troublesome side effects and the psychic pain and life-sapping loss of energy that is a mark […]
The Block Editor is Now Supported on the WordPress Native Apps — The WordPress.com Blog
The block editor allows for a smoother drafting experience – now possible on any screen size. The Block Editor is Now Supported on the WordPress Native Apps — The WordPress.com Blog
When college students post about depression on Facebook
Jan 07,2020 Jeff Grabmeier Ohio State News grabmeier.1@osu.edu Study suggests friends don’t encourage them to seek help When college students post about feelings of depression on Facebook, their friends are unlikely to encourage them to seek help, a small study suggests. In fact, in this study, none of the 33 participating students said their friends told them they should reach out to a mental health professional to discuss their problems. Instead, most friends simply sent supportive or motivating messages.Scottye CashBut that may not be good enough for people who are truly depressed – as some of the people in this study probably were, said Scottye Cash, lead author of the study and professor of social work at The Ohio State University. “It makes me concerned that none of the Facebook friends of students in this study were proactive in helping their friend get help,” Cash said. “We need to figure out why.” The research, published online recently in the journal JMIR Research Protocols, is part of a larger online study of health outcomes of 287 students at four universities in the Midwest and West. This study included the 33 students in the larger study who reported that they had “reached out on Facebook for help when depressed.” The students reported what type of post they made and how their friends responded. They also completed a measure of depression. Results showed that nearly half of the participants reported symptoms consistent with moderate or severe […]
How you can use the power of celebration to make new habits stick
IDEAS.TED.COM Jan 6, 2020 / BJ Fogg Krystal Quiles It doesn’t take 21 days to wire in a habit, says psychologist BJ Fogg. Sometimes, all you need is a shot of positive feeling and emotion, a dose of celebration. Celebrating is a great way to reinforce small changes — and pave the way for big successes. Psychologist BJ Fogg is the founder and director of the Behavior Design Lab at Stanford University — he’s coached over 40,000 people in his behavior change methods and influenced countless more. His Tiny Habits method states that a new behavior happens when three elements come together: motivation, ability and a prompt. If we really want to make lasting changes in our lives, Fogg believes we need to break them down into specific, easy behaviors (what he calls Tiny Habits), and find ways to trigger and reward them. Taking 30 seconds or less, a Tiny Habit is fast, simple and will grow For example, instead of having “get in shape” as a vague and intimidating goal, do two push-ups every time you make your morning coffee — that’s your Tiny Habit. After a while, you can increase the number of push-ups and expand into different exercises. In working with thousands of people, Fogg has found one thing really helps fledgling habits to stick: Celebrating them. Here, he explains how the power of celebration can wire new behaviors into our lives — and make us feel great in the process. Linda had […]
#Weekend Music Share
I’m so glad you stopped by today. I appreciate you and so glad to be a part of your day. Melinda
“#SoSC” Prompt for Week is “movie title”
Your prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is: “movie title.” Take the title of the last movie you watched (just the title, not the premise of the movie), and base your post on that . It’s been years since I’ve watched a new movie, I like to keep watching my funny ones over and over. Not much on movie theaters these days or remembering the ones I want to see by the time they come around to rent. My husband and I have the same sense of humor and find Caddy Shack an all time favorite, now how am I going to write a post from that movie title. This may take a minute. Turns out it was much easier than first thought. We’ve had new windows installed on the house and new siding where there is wood vs. brick. It has been a head pounding adventure of me the the paw puppies, trying to get my older dog from escaping from the fence is a daily game. I had him by the tail on day when a work came to me defense. The work here has been going on for three weeks and out back and side yards are loaded with material, left overs, tools, pretty much any size ladder available on the market. When I take the dogs outside I do see a resemblance to the Caddy’s shack in the movie because our back yard has everything but a sofa […]
#Wordless Wednesday
Have a great day, I wish you could see the smile on my face! Thanks for stopping by today. Melinda
