Depression is like a sludge that permeates the brain.
It burrows in and makes you feel out of touch,
With hollow eyes and a soul with no pain.
You pray for better days,
Only to feel like you are on a one-way train.
You’ve been here before and will feel it again.
Take medication, therapy, even meditate,
Only to feel trapped in time,
Feeling no gain.
Melinda
Many teenagers ask their parents for a dog, and it can be tough to decide as a family whether the time is right to add a canine companion. A dog can be a great way to teach your teenager to be more responsible, but a pet can also help with mental health. By getting a dog, your teen gets to experience the joy of owning and bonding with a true friend.
Image – free for commercial use
Pets can be especially beneficial for teens who are struggling with emotional or psychological issues. Many teenagers struggle with their mental health, so the idea of them being helped by owning a dog is worth investigating. For serious problems, professional therapy should be sought, but a dog can help with your teen’s self-care.
Your teenage years are a turbulent time. Teenagers often start to pull away from their families at this time, as they search for their own identities, separate from their parents. Caught between childhood and adulthood, many teens struggle to find their place in the world, leading to a sense of confusion.
Many young people lack the skills in coping that they need to deal with troublesome emotions. Sometimes teenagers are left to face these worries alone, but that doesn’t have to be the case. Young people with a pet tend to function better emotionally than those without. Pets give teens a sense of purpose and force them to interact, even at times when they might not feel much like socializing.
Teens who care for an animal build stronger social relationships. Caring for a dog can help teenagers to connect more to their community too. High levels of attachment to a pet can also help teenagers to feel more connected to others, feel more empathy, and have more self-confidence.
If you’re thinking about getting your teen a dog from somewhere like Lucky Labs, then you might want to consider these benefits.
A lot of teens aren’t naturally very affectionate, but a pet can help to turn that around. Animals will always demand (and get) attention. It’s much harder for a teenager to ignore an animal seeking attention and expressing their love. This can be very important for teens who aren’t feeling much affection from their peers or are feeling more distant from their parents.
Many young people don’t feel that adults understand them or what they’re going through. This means they’re likely to bottle up or push down their feelings instead of talking about them, which isn’t helping. A dog can be used as a listening ear, which is a great way to process and put into words any confusing thoughts and emotions that they might be having. After all, dogs are the best listeners.
There are few things as effective as petting an animal for soothing and calming a stressed-out mind. Playing with a dog increases levels of oxytocin, which is a hormone that reduces stress, and decreases cortisol, the stress hormone. Having a pet is good for your physical health too. Owning a pet is associated with a decrease in blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, which all reduce the risk of a heart attack.
Owning a dog can help young people to enhance their social skills, which is especially useful for teenagers with autism. Animals help young people to feel more assertive and increase their confidence when they interact with other people. Having a dog gives your teen something to talk about if they get stuck for conversation, and also acts as a way of getting people to engage with them in social situations.
Having a dog can also help you to meet new people and start conversations, something which teenagers can struggle to do. Many teens are caught up in social interactions online, whereas a dog is a great ice breaker for real-life social situations. People always want to stop and talk to a dog.
A dog is always there for you, even when things are at their hardest. People can come and go in life, but a dog is loyal and with you through every step. A dog can help to fight feelings of depression and anxiety as they provide companionship. Owning a dog can have a positive impact on a person’s self-esteem, as well as other psychological benefits such as lessening feelings of loneliness and helping someone to become less introverted.
Dogs are a great way to teach a teen to be more responsible and are also a good way of adding structure. The structure is helpful for teenagers who may be feeling adrift from their normal life. No matter how disconnected you feel, a dog will still need you to be up and ready to take it for a walk at least once a day. A dog can help to fight the urge to stay in all day when you feel down, which is an urge that teenagers can often fall victim to.
Spending time with a dog releases the hormone oxytocin, sometimes known as the love chemical. This hormone plays a part in bonding and trust, as well as reducing stress. This feeling of being bonded to your dog can be very beneficial to a young person who is suffering from PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
Dogs also help you to release endorphins. Just seeing a dog can trigger your brain into releasing these endorphins, which are natural anti-depressants. Even when you’re doing the jobs that are a less pleasant part of dog-owning, like cleaning up after them, you’ll feel more positive just by having the dog around.
Children who grow up in homes with dogs or other furry pets are less likely to develop common allergies. Children who are exposed to dogs and cats are a lot less likely to develop allergies such as dust, grass, ragweed, and pet allergies, and are at a lower risk of asthma. Allergies can make people become lethargic, apathetic, and struggle with insomnia. These problems make young people more vulnerable to mental health struggles, like depression.
Dogs can be very funny companions and are bound to make you laugh every day. Whether they’re being clumsy, adorable, or silly, your dog will cheer your teen up by making them laugh. Laughter is one of the best forms of stress relief.
Owning a dog can be very positive for people of all ages. If your teenager is begging you for a dog, it’s worth thinking about all the ways that they might benefit from dog ownership. Dogs are good for mental and physical health, as well as teaching your teenager to be more responsible and social. If you think your teenager is ready for the responsibility of owning an animal, the benefits could make the decision for you. Just remember that a dog is a big commitment, and you should be certain that your child is capable of providing the care that a dog will need. Agree in advance how much responsibility you as the parent will have, such as feeding and bathing. Choose a breed that suits your home and lifestyle, and prepare to see a real change in your teenager and the way they feel.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Moving is always stressful, there’s no way around that. Every step of the process, from selling your property to settling into your new home involves one anxiety or another, but the good news is that you can make it go more smoothly by stepping back and taking some time to plan things out.
As soon as you know that you’ll be moving house, you should start planning for moving day. If you’re moving somewhere that may present difficulties, then you need to plan ahead accordingly. For example, moving to a high-rise apartment will create challenges such as navigating the limited space in your new home.
Other potential complications could occur if you’re moving to a new country. You will have to navigate different rules and regulations and make sure that you familiarize yourself with how buying/renting a house works in the new country, as well as the logistics of moving there.
Preparation also helps when it comes to packing. Rather than leaving everything to the last minute, it’s best to start packing when you have a moving date in mind. This also gives you an opportunity to sort through your belongings and decide what you need to keep or what can be thrown away. Moving is always a good time to clear out your things.
Pack up non-essential items first. You can store them in boxes in your home, but many people chose to use a self-storage service to get things out of the way. This also gives you a safe place to stash them and makes things easier on moving days.
The sooner you start packing, the quicker and less stressful the moving day will be. If you can have most things packed away before you make the move, then all you have to do is shift the furniture and a few things that you had to keep with you.
Moving to another home typically involves moving large objects, like furniture, from one place to another. While you may be able to fit some things in your car, your furniture will prove more tricky.
This is where hiring a local removalist comes in handy. Movers have a van capable of transporting plenty of large furniture, and they also have the skill to move it safely and efficiently. A mover can also pick up your things from storage services and makes a stressful house move far easier to cope with.
Once everything is in your new house, it’s tempted to crash there and then. However, you won’t be able to settle down and relax until you’re completely unpacked. Work room by room, starting with vital rooms and large items.
Once all the furniture is in place, you can clean up and work with your smaller items. You might not be able to get everything sorted out the day you move in, but it’s best to get at least a couple of rooms done as soon as possible.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, This is me.
Hey there! Here with a plan of finally living life to the fullest.
Learning to face toward God rather than the past
I have a story to tell. It may help others who have experienced similar situations. But first I have to go on this journey. A journey where I figure this out. How to navigate my story and to understand it. Understand why this is even my story. Why did I have to go through what I went through? Where was God during all of this? What does he want me to do with it? I don’t want to miss any cues as to what He has planned. Where will my story go?
Be sure to find out where the journey leads.
Melinda
I’m a bit under the weather so no Today in History but I wanted to send some sunshine so here’s a photo of my Wandering Purple Jew Ivy. It loves this hot weather and is thriving.
I hope you’ve had a great day and weekend. Be back tomorrow with Blogger Highlight.
Melinda
Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “make a note.” Do with it what you will. Have fun!
I have two thoughts that quickly come to mind. The first is “take a note”, reminds me of a time before computers in the office and the receptionist would write your caller information down on a pink piece of paper. That was the time for typewriters, which they taught in my high school.
The second it “take a note” reminds me of post-it notes, I had them everywhere in my office, purse, briefcase, and pockets. They mostly came in yellow then, long before vivid colored ones. In business, we relied on them like gold. I even have a few bookmark-size ones inside my desk.
The good ole days!
Melinda
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. I will post the prompt here on my blog every Friday, along with a reminder for you to join in. The prompt will be one random thing, but it will not be a particular subject. For instance, I will not say “Write about dogs”; the prompt will be more like, “Make your first sentence a question,” “Begin with the word ‘The,’” or will simply be a single word to get you started.
4. Ping back! It’s important, so that I and other people can come and read your post! For example, in your post you can write “This post is part of SoCS:” and then copy and paste the URL found in your address bar at the top of this post into yours. Your link will show up in my comments for everyone to see. The most recent pingbacks will be found at the top. NOTE: Pingbacks only work from WordPress sites. If you’re self-hosted or are participating from another host, such as Blogger, please leave a link to your post in the comments below.
5. Read at least one other person’s blog who has linked back their post. Even better, read all of them! If you’re the first person to link back, you can check back later or go to the previous week by following my category, “Stream of Consciousness Saturday,” which you’ll find below the “Like” button on my post.
6. Copy and paste the rules (if you’d like to) in your post. The more people who join in, the more new bloggers you’ll meet and the bigger your community will get!
7. As a suggestion, tag your post “SoCS” and/or “#SoCS” for more exposure and more views.
8. Have fun!
For more streams, rules, and tips for Stream of Consciousness Saturday, visit our host, Linda at:
Have a great weekend.
Melinda
According to a recent study, “we produce up to 50,000 thoughts a day and 70% to 80% of those are negative”. While this may not seem like a major issue (especially if everyone is doing this), negativity takes up more space in our lives than it deserves. After all, a negative mindset impacts our lives in more ways than one and often takes its toll on our mental well-being too.
With that in mind, here are some top tips that you can use to combat negative thinking.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Many of us have self-esteem problems at some point in our life and I’ve certainly had my share. This is a deeply personal post I wrote to show you how subtle it can be and how to recognize it in your own life. Stop in your tracks and speak up! If that means the end of a relationship, then so be it.
I’m giving examples of life with my ex-husband and partner of 13 years. We were only married for five years so you would think I would have realized/seen or done something different other than getting married.
I met my ex-husband when I was 27 years old, had lots of baggage, and just starting to grow my career. We moved in with each other after six months. RED FLAG.
Not long after he went on a guy’s trip, about a week later a woman called the house asking for him. Come to find out he and his friends had partied with these women, he apparently didn’t tell her he was involved. The next day we were scheduled to go see family, I’m still fuming but I go anyway. Pretending everything was fine to our friends.
About a year into our relationship I was given a trip to Jamaica by my boss. I booked the nicest room which happen to be the honeymoon suite. I didn’t say we were on our honeymoon just wanted the nicer suite. When he found out he went ballistic. Spent the evening flirting with another woman and ignoring me. I lay across the bed crying while he parties in the hot tub.
We were on vacation in the UK and I got my hair cut while in London. My hair was mid-length and I had it cut short. He wouldn’t talk to me for three days. WFT was wrong with me, why didn’t I pack up when we got home?
We went tubing down the river every year with a bunch of friends, one year I got separated from the group. No water, beer, or money. After six hours of floating alone, he never stopped to wait for me. I got heat exhaustion from the day and had to go to the hospital. Never said he was sorry. Then to top it off wants to drive three hours out of the way home to pick up something. I’m in excruciating pain but went along.
These are all things that happened before we were married. I didn’t see how he ran all over me and I let him. I don’t know what I was thinking, but did I think I deserved this behavior. Now he wasn’t always this way. He was magnetic, charming, outgoing, romantic, good looking.
We were scheduled to go out to dinner and he came home four hours late, drunk, and never called. When I asked why he did care enough to call he blew me off. I was fuming. I got in the truck to go to dinner and he lifted his hand towards me. That was it. I got out of the truck, went to bed, cried, and decided to file for divorce.
The thing is I didn’t realize how bad he treated me until I met my husband. It became clear that there are people who know how to treat people with love and respect.
Don’t be a mouse, speak up for yourself and get out of a relationship where you are not valued and equal.
Melinda
Sometimes your mind tricks you into eating more than your body needs and you end up eating more than you should have eaten, which later leads to consequences such as digestive discomfort, nausea, tiredness, and acidity. Why do we overeat at times, in spite of being aware that we need to stop at that point? […]
How to stop overeating? — Natural goodness
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, Living 50.
Welcome to my blog. In this new season of my life, over 50, empty nester, and grandparent, I decided to try sharing some of my life’s experiences, lessons that I’ve learned along the way, and hopefully some great content just for women my age. Old is a mindset and I am no where near “old” yet!!! I hope you will be encouraged, inspired, challenged and enjoy a laugh or two along the way.
Her posts are a joy to read. Check her out.
Melinda
Time for SoCs again, this week Linda’s propmt is : Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “—amble.” Add letters to the beginning of “-amble” to make another word or use it as is in your post. Enjoy!“
When I was 19 years old, a friend and I drove from Texas to California and then to Las Vegas. I’m still surprised my old car made it there and back but it was a trooper. We were counting our pennies on the trip and by the time we made it to Vegas I had only $21 to gamble with. This was my first time gambling so I started with nickel slots to help make the fund last. I didn’t win big but I spent an afternoon making memories on $21.
Flash forward to the last time I gambled, maybe five years ago. We stop at this casino that’s in a river boat on the way to Alabama. They have my favorite game, Wheel of Fortune. I’m not a big gambler, would rather buy something or save it than risk it but on this occasion, I have $200 for the night.
Now I get to gamble the dollar slots and I do the max bidding. Sometimes I leave up for the night and others even but whatever the number, I always have a great time wishing on a fortune.
Melinda
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. I will post the prompt here on my blog every Friday, along with a reminder for you to join in. The prompt will be one random thing, but it will not be a particular subject. For instance, I will not say “Write about dogs”; the prompt will be more like, “Make your first sentence a question,” “Begin with the word ‘The,’” or will simply be a single word to get you started.
4. Ping back! It’s important, so that I and other people can come and read your post! For example, in your post you can write “This post is part of SoCS:” and then copy and paste the URL found in your address bar at the top of this post into yours. Your link will show up in my comments for everyone to see. The most recent pingbacks will be found at the top. NOTE: Pingbacks only work from WordPress sites. If you’re self-hosted or are participating from another host, such as Blogger, please leave a link to your post in the comments below.
5. Read at least one other person’s blog who has linked back their post. Even better, read all of them! If you’re the first person to link back, you can check back later or go to the previous week by following my category, “Stream of Consciousness Saturday,” which you’ll find below the “Like” button on my post.
6. Copy and paste the rules (if you’d like to) in your post. The more people who join in, the more new bloggers you’ll meet and the bigger your community will get!
7. As a suggestion, tag your post “SoCS” and/or “#SoCS” for more exposure and more views.
8. Have fun!
For more streams, rules, and tips for Stream of Consciousness Saturday, visit our host, Linda at:
Have a great weekend.
Melinda
Grab a wireless speaker, and a cold beverage to join me in a water noodle fight!
I’m at the doctor’s today, will update you when I know more.
Melinda
I want to give a special thanks to Managing Editor Soraya Nair from Trigger Publishing for sending me an advanced copy of Talk by Rich Gough to review.
Publication date: 07/07/2022
ISBN: 9781913615703 32 pages
What’s that feeling in the pit of your stomach? Some kids don’t quite know what it is and why it’s there. So, they feel they must hide it away, which only makes them feel worse and worse…
But it doesn’t have to be this way. Author and primary school teacher Rich Gough makes a simple proposition in his debut book: Talk. Opening up about fears and anxieties can help kids feel relief, so long as they know you’re there to listen. This book will help you open up that first conversation.
This is a very different type of book for me, it’s a children’s picture book. I know many of you have children or grandchildren and this book could be very valuable in your conversations with them.
Talk is bringing the ability to talk down to a child’s level. It helps them put words to their feelings. The illustrations are outstanding and will keep your child engaged.
Rich takes his experience as a school teacher and translates his knowledge into wonderful conversations you can have with your children.
The book will help your child’s mental health, it gives them a way to not only talk to you but to others. This is the type of book I would love to of had as I struggled to understand so many feelings and my anger.
This is the first step in opening communication with your child and leaves the door open for many more conversations.
I would recommend this book to all parents, grandparents, caregivers, and teachers.
We have built a first-class resource of curated books produced and published in-house to create a unique collection of mental health recovery titles unrivaled in quality and selection. We work with experts, psychologists, doctors, and coaches to produce our books, but we also work with real people looking to share their stories to reach out to others and provide hope, understanding, and compassion. These brave authors also aim to raise awareness of mental health’s “human” face and its impact on everyday lives.
Melinda
If you read my review of Delta 8 CBD products you know I’ve tried quite a few and found only two that I would buy again. Right now my front runner is Kind Oasis. Not only do they taste great, they actually work for me. Not all the products worked as stated.
I take 2 gummies when I start my nighttime routine and by bedtime an hour later, I’m relaxed and ready for bed. I have been able to stop taking sleeping pills because these keep me relaxed and able to go back to sleep after my late-night bathroom break.
I found this great article on the Kind Oasis blog that really breaks things down in terms you can understand. Not that you will remember all of this but you can always come back here to read again.
What are the different types of hemp products?
Progressing trends, evolving laws, and expanding R&D is leading more and more hemp derivatives to surface. Hemp has created a unique and dynamic market that is reaching users on a global scale. From edibles and beverages to skincare and hair products, to topicals and tinctures, smokables and self-care practices, plant products have carved out a niche across industries.
Let’s pause for a moment to clarify that increasing consumer demand for hemp-derived products is not limited to a singular demographic. The shift towards natural alternatives is present in a vast spectrum of users (even pets and grandparents!) that are seeking out wellness solutions for diverse goals.
With so many subsets on the horizon, how do we keep the ABC’s of hemp organized and understood?
Let’s break down the variations of this powerful plant, starting with the standard lineup, and simplifying the rookies on deck.
What is Full Spectrum CBD?
The most potent of the classic CBD trio, Full Spec utilizes the whole plant. Full Spec contains both CBD and all other cannabinoids – and trace amounts of THC (0.3% or less).
What is Broad Spectrum CBD?
Still offering extensive plant benefits, Broad Spec is comprised of CBD and various other cannabinoids. The difference: no THC.
What is CBD Isolate?
Like the name indicates, CBD Isolate is just CBD. No other cannabinoids, no THC.
What is Delta-8 (D8)?
A dominating trend in hemp, delta-8 THC is a naturally occurring cannabinoid and is mostly extracted from hemp-derived CBD. D8 is an isomer of delta-9 THC, where the only difference is the location of a double bond between two carbons. Users say this provides a milder effect.
What is Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC)?
This derives from the scientific process of hydrogenation and is procured from CBD. HHC can have THC-like effects, but less potent than D8.
What is (compliant) Delta-9 THC?
Compliant delta-9 THC comes from the hemp plant, not marijuana, and contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight. For example, let’s say our gummy weight is 3.5g. What is the math behind compliancy?
3.5g gummy = 3,500mg * .003% = 10.5mg THC.
What is THCO?
Unlike the other hemp players mentioned here, THCO does not occur naturally in a cannabis plant. Users say the effects of THCO are bolder than delta-8 and delta-9.
What is CBG?
CBG is obtained from the cannabis plant. CBG is on the rise as it is being seen to have many potential benefits for your mind and body. There is no THC in CBG.
What is CBN?
CBN is a product of THC oxidization. In addition, CBN is catching widespread popularity as a natural comfort aid.
We all have an endocannabinoid system, and the effects different cannabinoids have are bio-individual. A great rule of thumb is to continue doing your research and seek out consultation from a medical provider as research advances and more plant products hit the market.
Melinda
This was such a popular post I wanted to share it again for those who missed it.
If you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or just plain down in the dumps, mindfulness may be a good option for you. It is an ancient practice that has been shown to reduce stress and promote well-being.
Mindfulness is defined as purposely focusing one’s awareness on the present moment while calmly acknowledging and accepting one’s feelings, thoughts, and bodily sensations.
This should not be confused with meditation; mindfulness is merely a way to become more aware of yourself and your surroundings. By practicing mindfulness regularly, you will eventually find yourself carrying these habits into everyday activities such as cooking, listening to music, and even cleaning.
Without judgment simply means that you aren’t judging whether or not something is good or bad; you are merely observing what is there.
Accepting thoughts without judging them trains the brain not to react emotionally to thoughts that previously would have caused upset or distraction. This allows you to break free from automatic reactions that are no longer useful, freeing up previously used energy for unnecessary thought processes.
In addition, mindfulness helps you to learn how to get out of “mental traps” by giving you the distance between stimulus and response instead of the immediacy that has been ingrained in people from years of conditioning.
Photo by Diego Madrigal from Pexels
The practice of mindfulness encourages you to observe your thoughts and emotions as they present themselves without judgment and with a desire to improve. This differs from people’s method of ruminating or worrying because those two behaviors can become cyclical and lead to habitual patterns that cause stress, anxiety, and depression.
When practicing mindfulness, you are taking up your rightful position as an observer that has control over your brain function rather than being your brain function.
When you allow stressful thoughts and feelings to exist without judging them as good or bad, helpful or unhelpful, productive or unproductive, they tend to dissipate more easily on their own, so you can resume thinking about what’s most important right now.
Remember: These feelings might be uncomfortable, but they are there. Accept that you are feeling what you are feeling without trying to change it or push it away.
Even though mindfulness helps a person regulate their emotions better by creating more distance between stimulus and response, it is helpful not to ignore emotions that arise but rather to allow them to exist without necessarily reacting.
Being watchful of your surroundings can help you learn how best to respond in a given situation while taking into consideration any impulses that may accompany emotional responses. One way this might manifest itself is through a greater focus on rationality rather than emotionality when making decisions.
Photo by olia danilevich from Pexels
So as not to fall prey to gut instincts or instinctual urges from past conditioning, which have been proven over time by scientific research not always lead down the most optimal paths for positive outcomes.
It is important not to let thoughts turn into action without first evaluating their consequences carefully. The goal should be to empower oneself by changing behaviors that don’t align with core values while turning down the volume on less helpful impulsivity.
Practicing mindfulness can help to reduce poor decision-making (such as excessive “night owl” behavior that stops the body from getting enough sleep) and increase emotional regulation when tempted with harmful or unhealthy impulses such as drugs, alcohol, and excessive buying.
Mindfulness is a great way to maintain control over your life and make sure temporary feelings and emotions do not rule you in response to external stimuli.
Training the brain to be present in the present moment instead of thinking about the past or worrying about the future allows for a fuller life experience free from excessive stress, anxiety, and negative emotions.
Mindfulness not only helps you become more aware, but it also provides an opportunity for gratitude and appreciation when you take time to enjoy everyday experiences.
In this way, mindfulness may affect higher-order brain functions such as emotional regulation and empathy through changes in daily thought patterns that influence a person’s interactions with others.
Photo by Quang Nguyen Vinh from Pexels
Mindfulness allows you to make a shift from autopilot mode to manual control of your life. You can let go of unnecessary stress and anxiety while feeling calmer, more centered, and grounded in who you are as an individual rather than being swept away by uncontrolled thoughts and feelings that cloud your judgment or lead to reactionary behavior.
By practicing mindfulness, you can take back the reins of your mind so that you may direct them toward activities that feel fulfilling and purposeful instead of engaging in unproductive psychological loops that cause regret.
This brings you back into the moment where mindfulness becomes easier because your mind is calmer and quieter than before. Although it is normal for emotions like anger to arise occasionally (and sometimes often), reacting impulsively generally does not lead people toward healthy long-term outcomes.
By practicing mindfulness regularly for fifteen minutes each day, people can train themselves through daily self-monitoring to become more conscious of what they’re feeling at any given moment.
This may be challenging at first because it requires you to turn off autopilot mode and be conscious of every choice you make instead of just letting life happen. However, it will become easier to be aware of your thoughts and feelings throughout the day with time.
Photo by cottonbro from Pexels
You will notice that once you begin practicing mindfulness on a regular basis, you will feel calmer throughout the day by simply observing what’s going on around you without reacting emotionally.
You’ll find yourself more grounded at the moment instead of feeling stressed out about things left unresolved in the past or hazy uncertainties floating around in the future. You may even begin to see that some of your previously unproductive thought patterns are associated with certain people, places, or events that you had assumed were beyond your control.
Being mindful isn’t something that you are born knowing how to do or not know how to do; it’s about practicing these three steps until they become second nature.
Mindfulness has various benefits for both physical and mental health.
Studies have shown that it can reduce blood pressure, improve immune function, reduce anxiety and depression symptoms, enhance emotional processing after a stressful event occurs, increase focus on tasks at hand rather than worrying about past experiences or future concerns.
Mindfulness practices help individuals reduce their emotional reactivity to unpleasant life experiences and allows them to live in the present moment instead of stewing about things that have already happened or are likely to happen in the future.
A study conducted with college students showed that practicing mindfulness led to better academic performance by increasing focus on coursework rather than worrying about grades or other external pressures that students may feel will determine how smart they are compared to others.
Mindfulness is important for healthy individuals because they can use it as a coping mechanism in times of anxiety, stress, and sadness when they feel out of control.
Although mindfulness has these physical health benefits, it is important for people without any mental health problems to understand what types of situations would make them better candidates for mindfulness practices.
Those with mental health disorders or even normal individuals in high-stress situations may benefit the most from mindfulness exercises to help them cope with these intense life pressures.
Photo by Marcus Aurelius from Pexels
Although there are many benefits of mindfulness meditation, it is not necessary to practice this technique if a person does not feel like they need strategies to alleviate stress in their lives. For example, if someone’s job was not stressful but chose to practice mindfulness techniques anyway, that person would likely experience no benefits.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Melinda
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, A Visual Journey.
I am just another human being that enjoys taking pictures of everything. I look at photography as a very special way to capture a moment in time, a memory, a feeling or illusion.
I am also a beginner animator and video editor. Who doesn’t like comics and cartoons? I love learning new things, experimenting and sharing my work.
Relax while enjoying some special moments I captured
or some homemade animation to make you smile.
Relax! Let your eyes wander and quiet your mind with some visual therapy. A picture is always more than you can see. You will also find my own illustrations, animations and sometimes short stories. You never know what you will find so make sure to come back.
Be sure to check out her great photographs and artwork.
Melinda
The first thing that comes to my mind is a product, small flatbreads. We make flatbreads with a variety of ingredients on a regular basis but I’ve learned to love them by themselves, just heated in the toaster oven. I’ve been on a weight loss journey for the past couple of months, doing it the right way this time. No diet just cutting meals in half and cutting out snacking. The flatbreads are only 100 calories so I get to eat two of them with some peanut butter which is very filling but not too many calories. I’m not counting every calorie to the letter just keeping tabs to try to stay under 1500 calories. I’ve lost 14 pounds with this method but have trouble reaching 15 pounds. My goal is another 10 pounds. I have made the eating changes needed now I have to continue to keep up the good habits.
Another product I have to mention is my computer, I would have a hard time living without it. Boy, how it’s changed our lives. That and cell phones. I remember my first cell phone was a bag phone that weighed about five pounds. The receiver was huge and the battery didn’t last long. Little did I know at the time how far technology would take phones and that texting would be an option.
Speaking of produce, that is one thing I eat a lot of especially strawberries and blueberries. Every day for lunch I have yogurt and fruit, usually one of the above, and when in the season I add Mangos. I love many types of fruit and veggies. If fact I have been eating tomatoes every week for over a month now. Our homegrown cherry tomatoes have been producing and the larger ones are turning red. I love fresh tomatoes with salt and pepper. I’m not crazy about cauliflower unless it’s raw. I also don’t like the smell of cabbage cooking and can’t eat it and won’t eat Polk salad.
Melinda
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. I will post the prompt here on my blog every Friday, along with a reminder for you to join in. The prompt will be one random thing, but it will not be a particular subject. For instance, I will not say “Write about dogs”; the prompt will be more like, “Make your first sentence a question,” “Begin with the word ‘The,’” or will simply be a single word to get you started.
4. Ping back! It’s important, so that I and other people can come and read your post! For example, in your post you can write “This post is part of SoCS:” and then copy and paste the URL found in your address bar at the top of this post into yours. Your link will show up in my comments for everyone to see. The most recent pingbacks will be found at the top. NOTE: Pingbacks only work from WordPress sites. If you’re self-hosted or are participating from another host, such as Blogger, please leave a link to your post in the comments below.
5. Read at least one other person’s blog who has linked back their post. Even better, read all of them! If you’re the first person to link back, you can check back later or go to the previous week by following my category, “Stream of Consciousness Saturday,” which you’ll find below the “Like” button on my post.
6. Copy and paste the rules (if you’d like to) in your post. The more people who join in, the more new bloggers you’ll meet and the bigger your community will get!
7. As a suggestion, tag your post “SoCS” and/or “#SoCS” for more exposure and more views.
8. Have fun!
For more streams, rules, and tips for Stream of Consciousness Saturday, visit our host, Linda at:
Have a great weekend.
Melinda
Alcohol can be incredibly addictive and many people find themselves struggling with managing how much they drink. Alcohol abuse and alcoholism are generally the two terms that are used to describe someone who suffers from drinking too much.
Every time you drink, you damage your body a little bit more. One of the better-known symptoms of alcohol abuse is damage to the liver. However, there is a lot of other damage that can be caused too. High blood pressure, stroke, and a range of cancers can come as part of an alcohol-destroyed body. There is hope though. Once you stop drinking, your body can begin to heal itself and your risk of suffering from these illnesses begins to reduce.
As an addict, you may not think twice about getting into your car and going for a drive while you are drunk. This is dangerous and illegal. If you end up with some drivers license suspensions because of your drinking, it might be a good time to have a look at how alcohol is affecting your life. You might need to ask yourself if you have a problem with the amount that you are drinking if you think you are in some sort of legal trouble.
Alcohol is known for lowering inhibitions so it is not surprising that someone who abuses alcohol may suffer from increased levels of violence towards themselves and others. When it comes to domestic violence, drinking is one of the main causes of violent outbursts, with 55% of incidents involving alcohol. These outbursts can result in you spending some time in prison and the pain of a loved one. Some of these incidents can result in the death of a loved one.
We know that drinking can affect your body physically but it can also affect you mentally. When you abuse alcohol, you run the risk of becoming addicted. Drinking alcohol affects the neural pathways and can make it difficult to remember things. It is this effect on your body that can cause other issues such as violence and poor decision-making.
Every time you drink, you run the risk of developing various issues. However, these issues all add up and can cause a lifetime of pain. There is the physical pain of the diseases, the mental pain of the mental health issues, and the pain that you can cause others. Over time, these issues can destroy your relationships, give you a lot of legal issues, and can result in a shorter lifespan.
All in all, you can see that drinking too much can have a negative impact on your life. So, before you go reaching for that bottle to help you cool off at the end of a hard day, ask yourself if it is worth it. If you feel that you are having issues, there are many organisations that help you manage your behavior and help get you back on the right track.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Bella Grace Field Guide by Stampington
Melinda
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, Natural Goodness.
Healthy living| Wellbeing| Parenting
I enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience about living a healthy life naturally, raising self-reliant and happy kids, and tips to care for your overall wellbeing by managing stress, choosing a healthy lifestyle, and embracing life.
I am an expert in food safety, and also have experience working in a research laboratory and the education sector. I find happiness in enjoying the little things in life, learning from my experiences, using life experiences positively, exploring my capabilities, and spending time with family.
I started my blog when I found people being extremely curious about healthy living and taking care of kids, during the pandemic, as all of us have gone through different kinds of stress and learned a lot of life lessons during this period. I hope to spread goodness and positivity with my blog and help you live healthy and happy.
Please visit Rancy’s blog to see what’s going on in her world.
Melinda
It’s been a while since I’ve posted an update on my health and wanted to get you up to date. A lot is happening in my life right now and hopefully, I’ll have more answers at the end of the month when I see a new Rheumatologist.
I had a follow-up meeting with my Immunologist last month and discovered that insurance will not pay for Antibody Infusion Treatments until you’ve been on antibiotics four times in a year. You have to be sick first. I understand insurance companies have to make money and are not a charity. I did have an ear infection so he put me on an antibiotic. There’s no reason to see him again until I get sick. There’s one doctor down.
I’m in the approval process for my prescription Ingrezza for my Tardive Dyskinesia. It’s $7,500 a month so the approval process takes a little longer. I’m blessed with good insurance who is covering 100% of the cost.
Tardive Dyskinesia is a serious side effect of taking anti-psychotic medication. I’ve taken them for close to 30 years so I’ve been very lucky to not get TD before now. Not only is TD hard to deal with it also means that I can no longer antipsychotic medications which have been essential for my Bipolar Disorder.
My TD is in the mouth, so my tongue is constantly pushing on my teeth, rolling across my teeth and gums. It’s very painful, my gums are raw, my jaw hurts, and my head hurts.
The most common side effects of Ingrezza are sleepiness and a fall hazard. The more serious side effects I’ll worry about if they show up. I hope to start the medication next week.
As I mentioned, I’m seeing a new Rheumatologist at the end of the month. It culminated from having swollen salivary glands. This can point to an autoimmune disorder, possibly Lupus. Although I don’t have the classic butterfly rash, I do have many of the symptoms. I’m not going in with a diagnosis because I have many other issues going on with my legs that are progressively getting worse. My hips and shoulders have become so painful that I can only sleep for 2-3 hours before I wake up and have to turn over. Then I’m awake and have to start the process all over.
The muscles in my legs are either having spasms or tied in knots making it hard to sleep or walk. I wake up and can hardly walk because they are so tight. This appointment was made three months ago, so I’ve been keeping a log of all the symptoms by area of the body. This will help when I see the doctor.
I’m now four times vaccinated and still taking all the same precautions. Since Covid started I’ve only talked with one person without a mask and they were several feet away. I hope you’ve taken your vaccinations and staying safe.
I hope you are healthy and happy.
Melinda
Karen Horney: “Stress is often a result of the tension between what is and what you believe should be. It’s called the “tyranny of the shoulds,” which dictates how we think, act, and feel. These “should” beliefs—are referred to as Icebergs… Stress is often a result of the tension between what is and what you […]
A Discussion of Self-Hatred — DocTalk
I want to send a special thanks to Marketing & Ecommerce Executive Laura Sebright at Tigger Publishing for sending me Life After Care From Lost Cause to MBE by Mark Edwards.
Mark Edwards spent the majority of his childhood in foster and then in a children’s home. Following this, he was sectioned under the Mental Health Care Act and admitted to a local mental institution.
Mark is now a Vicor in Newcastle upon Tyne and is a volunteer Ambulance First Responder. He’s a Police Chaplin to Northumbria Police and has previously as a lifeboat crew member. In 2010 he received an MBE for his service to the public. Mark is now happily married with four children and one grandchild.
Life After Care follows Mark’s journey with anxiety, panic attacks, and depression, and we learn about the enduring impact his childhood had on his mental health. His diary entries bring to life the thoughts and feelings of Mark, as a teenager, struggling to understand how he came to be placed in care, and how to deal with his adolescent feelings of loss and love.
On the verge of breakdown, Mark tried to take his own life and he was sectioned under the Mental Health Act. We follow his journey from local authority care to the wards of a crumbling Victorian psychiatric asylum, and beyond into life on the streets…This is a heartfelt, true story of how a troubled young man managed to turn his life around. From being imprisoned in the care system and mislabel
Wow! Heartbreaking and Inspiring. I have a traumatic background and can say that Mark’s life was far beyond traumatic it was pure hell on earth.
From an early age, Mark and his brother were shuffled from foster home to foster home never finding a family to take them in. After staying with one family for two years they were given hope that they had a forever home only to be taken away and sent to a children’s home. Mark spent his early adolescent years grappling with his panic attacks, depression, and anger. After years of neglect, his repressed emotions caused him to lash out and be deemed unmanageable. He spent the last few months before his 16th birthday living with his sister. Now turning 16, he ages out of the system and is left to sink or swim.
Mark is living with his sister and her husband on his 18th birthday. He has a job but spends his off time drinking and drowning in his traumatic memories. One day during a fight with his sister, Mark goes into a blinding rage and picks up a knife, pointing it at his sister. He scares her but himself even more. Mark sinks to his darkest level yet and takes a razor blade to both of his wrists in an effort to end his pain. He second-guesses himself and goes for help.
His sister is forced to have Mark sent to a Psychiatric Hospital for his own safety.
Fast forward, Mark is a respected member of the community, a volunteer, and a man of God. He went from the darkest depths of mankind to chart away forward for himself. He was awarded an MBE by none other than Prince Charles himself.
This book is for anyone who is dealing with a family member with a traumatic background, or dark depression. Mark’s diaries speak volumes about the obstacles he has overcome and his mindset.
I highly recommend this book. It would also be great to give to a troubled teen, they may read it.
We have built a first-class resource of curated books produced and published in-house to create a unique collection of mental health recovery titles unrivaled in quality and selection. We work with experts, psychologists, doctors, and coaches to produce our books, but we also work with real people looking to share their stories to reach out to others and provide hope, understanding, and compassion. These brave authors also aim to raise awareness of mental health’s “human” face and its impact on everyday lives.
Melinda
It’s been a year since I wrote Fibromyalgia Thoughts #7, I had no idea how well I had been managing. Until today, when I wasn’t managing at all. A wave came over me after breakfast just as I was going outside to water the plants, and the life drained out of me. I had to go back to bed even though I had a good night’s sleep, maybe the best sleep I’ve had in days.
The temperature here has already reached 100 degrees and the humidity is high. We’ve touched on several record-breaking days already and it’s not even July. July and August are usually the hottest months in Texas, but we are having average temps in June. The heat is exhausting.
I go out to water most days by 9:00 am but today I was delayed by an hour since I laid down. Boy, what a difference an hour makes. It’s not that I was feeling so much better but knew that if I could muster the energy it would be much easier to water now than wait or ask my husband for help. He’s always glad to help, but it’s my passion, my flowers, and my sanctuary. I thought if I could just get out there I would somehow feel better. NOT.
I’ve been battling many symptoms that have progressed over the past year, I don’t know if they are all Fibro since other things are going on with my health. I think telling myself it’s something else has somehow allowed me to keep pushing on.
I see a new Rheumatologist at the end of the month and I hope to have some answers. I’ve been keeping detailed notes of each symptom by body area and tracking the progression. I can only sleep for 2-3 hours at a time before the pain wakes me, I have to roll over and wait for sleep to come again. It’s very tiring.
The other morning the muscles in my legs were so tight I could hardly walk, I lay in bed thinking how am I going to do this. I took my muscle spasm medication and moved to the chair. I realized today that the limp from my hip is more pronounced, that’s from my Brusitis. I am late on my steroid injections and can tell.
I know this afternoon will include a nap, which I give myself grace. I’ve beat myself up for too many years for not being the best wife or granddaughter or best self. In fact, the best self I can be is to take care of my health, do what I can, be honest about what’s going on, and take the pass when I have to.
I’ll keep you posted on my Rheumatologist appointment. I work hard to not over-research my symptoms and go in with a layman’s diagnosis. I’ve taken very precise notes and the symptoms will hopefully lead to answers or in the right direction.
Melinda
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, Hens Blooms.
Finding Inspiration in the Gifts of Life
“I believe in God, love and life! Married to my friend, mentor and rock. We have been blessed with two beautiful girls. My personal journey provides opportunities for me to empower individuals to lead better lives. I have had a real desire to work with people for a long time and have always been fascinated with human behaviour and understanding how the mind works.
I love the following quote by H. Jackson Brown, Jr. “Remember that children, marriages and flower gardens reflect the kind of care they get”
I love this quote and it’s so true. Be sure to check out Hens Blooms.
Melinda
After trying and finding relief in Delta 8 CBD gummies as opposed to CDB oil, I’ve been on a mission to try several brands in an effort to find my go-to brand or brands. I’ve tried seven so far and have found two that I like and Kind Oasis is my go-to brand, for now, I’m no longer shopping around.
This post may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission, they don’t cost you more and help fund my coffee habit.
Citrus Splash 30mg per gummy
I love them! Melts like light jello and has no aftertaste. A hint of citrus flavor.
The 30mg is the way to go if you are looking for the full Delta 8 effect. This one is very relaxing, it helped me go back to sleep and ease my mind from wondering. I didn’t take sleeping pills for two weeks. These help me get to a state of harmony. These are my favorite so far!
Tri-flavor 25mg per gummy
I dislike them, they are too hard and have bad artificial flavor after taste.
I dislike these all the way around. I did not feel the same relaxing effect as the other 25mg gummy. They weren’t the least expensive either.
Watermelon 25mg gummy
Taste horrible! The initial sugar-coated taste was promising but the strong after taste is not worth buying for. I didn’t take enough to say if they worked because I could not eat anymore.
Pomegranate 25mg gummy
These are by far the worst! They are hard to chew and taste bad. To make it worse, I felt no effect of the Delta 8. I would not spend my money on this one. I made the mistake of buying two of these since they were on sale, shame on me!
Tangerine 30mg gummy
These have a soft jelly-like consistency and taste good with no after-taste. Green Garden Gold knows how to make a gummy! They’re vegan and work! I take one when I start my nightly routine and after 15-20 minutes I start to feel that relaxing feeling come over me. I don’t have a care in the world and my stress is lifted. These are a keeper and I will buy them again for sure.
Strawberry 10mg gummy
The Delta 8 Tangerine gummies were great but these Delta 9’s are terrible. The worst I’ve tasted in fact they made me gag. I threw $100 worth of product in the trash.
Citrus 25mg gummy
I found these listed on a Top 10 list of Forbes and thought I would try them. They are a harder jello-like consistency but the taste is to be desired. They aren’t horrible but I don’t like the aftertaste. I don’t understand why it’s so hard to make a great-tasting gummy.
Have you tried Delta 8 gummies? I would love to hear your feedback!
Melinda
Bella Grace Field Guide by Stampington
Melinda
Work situations are difficult to navigate sometimes. Anxiety sets in and you may feel as if you are sinking. Thankfully there are ways to ease your stress. From breathing techniques to yoga, and more, there are ways to help reduce your stress.
Sometimes the problems with work are borne out of social activities in the workplace. In order to be comfortable with your co-workers, try to expand your comfort zone. Consciously try to create small talk with people you meet throughout the day: at lunch, in the elevator, or in the coffee corner. Try to initiate short conversations. Such behavior will teach others that you are an accessible person and can be talked to. Remember that it is not so important to say the right thing, it is more important to be present. People are usually more comfortable with who they know.
Those who suffer from social anxiety may have difficulty talking to their supervisor. Any communication with your manager may be difficult for you. You may have difficulty with the simplest questions, it is common for people with social anxiety to try to get away with asking and finding out with the manager the information they need. Unfortunately, avoiding a conversation with the manager can impair your functioning and the manner in which the task is fulfilled: you will find yourself working long hours in a way that will ultimately not be to the satisfaction of your superiors.
If you feel uncomfortable in meetings – try to get to the meeting a quarter of an hour earlier so you can meet others when they arrive. Most people who suffer from social anxiety and shyness come to meetings late so that they do not have to socialize with others. But this behavior only makes you feel more isolated and stressed. During meetings, try to remember that others must also feel uncomfortable and have difficulty speaking. Quite a lot of people actually have difficulty expressing their opinions. If you take the initiative and speak first, it will reassure the rest and they will appreciate and respect you for it. Try to replace the negative thought with a more accurate, or more helpful thought: “I’m usually good enough in meetings.” Even if this mental exercise feels strange and strange to you, over time it will reduce your insecurity in work meetings. You will soon start to make a shift and feel more confident.
Workplaces usually hold social events that you are expected to attend. Company trips, zoom parties, joint video photography, farewell party, and conferences. The human resources department works hard to connect the employees and for most of them, a fun day is really fun. For people with social anxiety, these events can be particularly difficult – they expose their social shame – their difficulty in feeling comfortable.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, Hope Whispers.
Welcome to Hope Whispers. My name is Sarah and this is the place where I wrestle with life, looking at what it means to live with mental illness and chronic physical illness. Endeavouring to hold onto hope in spite of life’s challenges. Here I write about faith and suffering, joy and loss, recovery and relapse. Join me as I look to build a meaningful life with Depression, Anxiety and ME/CFS whilst being in Eating Disorder recovery. Trying to seek out the golden moments to be found even on the darkest days.
Be sure to check out Sarah’s site.
Melinda
lookingforthelight.blog 