It’s the weekend!!!!!!
I’m glad you joined me for another edition of Weekend Music Share this week.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share, the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the Weekend Music Share banner in your post, and use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
It took me years to set limits on myself, especially when I was single. In 2017 I opened my now closed X account and the numbers of hours spent waisting time, I can’t get back. My phone and computer were like an appendege. I’m proud of myself for realizing it was affecting my mental health and my sleeping issues.
Changing habits is hard to do, it doesn’t happen overnight. My change started several years ago by focusing on sleeping habits to reduce anxiety. I go to bed an hour before bedtime, in that hour the goal is to unwind, clearing my head is necessary to falling asleep. Self-care helps the process, like an ultrusonic diffuser with calming essential oils, using a roller ball of essential oil on your pulse points, and indulging in hand & body cream. The room is dark, no electronics and a bit cooler.
What has made the biggest difference is cutting the time spent watching news in half and not spending time on the computer after 6:00PM, it sounds crazy yet my brain wakes up and it’s hard to wind down. When I hear my husband coming to bed I’m normally rested and ready to sleep. One key is being consistant with the time spent before bedtime.
A blessing and curse happened in January, all of my personal information was released is a large data breach, I’m now exposed for the rest of my life for identity theft. I had to change every password, get new credit cards, add second step authorizations and I decided to close all social accounts. The last step the easiest.
All changes require determination, commitment, and consistency.
Melinda
One would think that freezing weather would cause ticks to hibernate or die, but you would have to think again. States that stay below freezing for most of the winter will not have a high risk but it is not impossible. Keep this in mind when raking the leaves and snow close to the ground.
The key is to know ticks are active and how to prevent tick bites. It’s easy to fend off these beasts by making a few changes. If you are walking in high grass, or have tree limbs brushing the trail, even dead leaves can be a host for ticks. Before you head out, spray exposed areas with DEET* making sure to spray the foot to above your ankles.
Put pant legs in socks so the tick can’t climb in. Wear a hikers hat with a trail that covers the back of the neck. No more falling off a tree limb right down the back of your shirt. They look for every chance they can get to attach to you, the host. The most critical step is to check your body, complete body, once home. Wash your clothes right away, don’t put them in the washing bin and let them move around your other clothes.
As someone who lives with Chronic Lyme Disease, I can say that preventing a tick bite is a hell of a lot better than getting Lyme.
If you’re enjoying the warmer-than-usual winter, so are ticks. The insects do not have to go into their usual hibernation on days when the temperature exceeds 40 degrees. It used to be the people who study ticks in Connecticut got pretty bored in the winter months. Not anymore.
“We used to call it tick activity season,” explained Dr. Goudarz Molaei, a tick expert with the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station. “We can no longer call it tick activity season as ticks are active year-round.”
When people get bit, they send their ticks to the Agricultural Experiment Station. It used to be they would get about 50 all winter long. Now they are getting around 800.
“We receive ticks daily, and some days we receive over ten tick specimens from the public,” Molaei said.
If Connecticut no longer has a non-active tick season, chances are the surrounding states are also seeing an increase in ticks during the winter. Be safe by preparing on the front end.
DEET* or no DEET, is based on your preference. There is plenty of information for your searches.
Melinda
References:
https://www.wtnh.com/news/ticks-becoming-active-year-round-in-connecticut-due-to-warmer-winters/
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a nationwide alert, instructing consumers, retailers and distributors not to eat, sell or serve certain eggs after the recall of more than 6 million eggs produced by the Arkansas-based Black Sheep Egg Company due to potential Salmonella contamination.
According to the announcement posted by the FDA on Monday, Oct. 20, the recall includes 12- and 18-count cartons of the company’s Free Range Large Grade A Brown Eggs with Best By dates between August 22 and October 31, 2025, and UPC 860010568507 and 860010568538.
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The agency also classified the action as a Class I recall, the highest risk level, given that eggs could pose a serious health threat of Salmonella.
The symptoms, which include diarrhea, fever and abdominal cramps, can usually last four to seven days and can be experienced 12 to 72 hours after ingesting the contaminated food. Vulnerable demographics — children under the age of five years old, those with comparable immune systems and the elderly — are subject to experiencing more severe infections.
As the notice explains, the alarm was raised after 40 environmental samples collected at the company’s processing facility tested positive for Salmonella, including seven different strains known to cause human illness.
While no illnesses have yet been reported and the FDA has no current evidence linking the firm to an outbreak, the recall is being handled as a precaution.
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Although the eggs were originally shipped to retail and wholesale locations in Arkansas and Missouri, they may have been further distributed and repackaged before reaching other states.
That broader footprint extends the recall beyond the immediately identified region. A related Oct. 16 recall by the Texas-based brand Kenz Henz, which sold eggs sourced from Black Sheep in Houston, further underscores the distribution reach.
Retailers and food-service operators have been instructed to halt sales and distribution of the suspect eggs immediately. Consumers are advised to check any egg cartons in their refrigerators for the affected codes and dates, and either discard or return them to the location of purchase. Surfaces and containers that came into contact with the contaminated eggs should be thoroughly washed and sanitized.
Anyone who has consumed the recalled eggs and develops symptoms is encouraged to contact a health-care provider and report the situation to the FDA for further investigation.
Not again?
Melinda
Reference:
https://people.com/over-6-million-eggs-have-been-recalled-by-fda-amid-salmonella-risk-11834683
I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and I hope to see you soon.
Melinda
Melinda
Agoraphobia is a common but often misunderstood anxiety disorder that can make everyday situations feel overwhelming or even impossible; understanding the signs and seeking the right support can help you reclaim your freedom,
Many mental health conditions are simply extreme degrees of minor challenges that most people face regularly. It’s perfectly natural to feel some nervousness when you’re going somewhere you’ve never been before or going to a crowded place where there are a lot of people you don’t know; But, agoraphobia is different.
If that slight tinge of nervousness becomes intense anxiety that prevents you from doing things you normally would, it might be a condition called agoraphobia.
Agoraphobia is an intense fear of situations where there may not be an easy way to escape or where you may feel trapped or helpless.
At its core, it’s a phobia of being in a situation where you’re panicking and there’s not an easy way out. This typically translates into a fear of familiar places, crowds, public transportation and very open areas like large parking lots and open water.
In any given year, about 2% of people experience agoraphobia. That is about 6.8 million people in the US. It’s more commonly diagnosed in women than in men.
Agoraphobia can have a profound impact on your daily life. It can range in severity from avoiding certain activities you might otherwise enjoy, like parties, concerts or other large social events, to being unable to leave your home.
Some people become homebound for years or are unable to maintain a career and care for themselves because of it.
Agoraphobia, like any other phobia, is a type of anxiety disorder. But it also has a unique relationship to panic disorders.
Agoraphobia often develops after a panic attack in a public place where escape feels impossible. Even if you were able to get out of the situation the first time, you have a fear that next time you won’t be able to.
The symptoms of agoraphobia include an extreme fear of:
Agoraphobia is specific to these types of circumstances, where you might not have a clear path to safety. Extreme anxiety in situations other than these might indicate other anxiety disorders.
One of the tricky aspects of phobias is understanding the difference between a “normal” amount of anxiety about a particular situation and a phobia. While only a mental health professional can diagnose agoraphobia, you could have this condition if:
When you’re in a situation that triggers your agoraphobia, the symptoms can manifest in physical, emotional or psychological and behavioral ways.
In these situations, physical symptoms can include:
Meanwhile, the emotional or psychological symptoms can include:
During agoraphobia triggering situations, you may also have these behavioral symptoms:
How do you know if you’re at risk for developing agoraphobia? It usually develops in the teenage or early adult years and does seem to have a genetic link. People who have a close relative with agoraphobia are more likely to develop it. Some studies indicate that the heritability is as high as 48-61%.
Genetics isn’t the only factor, though. There are often traumas and life experiences that contribute to agoraphobia, especially trauma that occurs in childhood. This can include abuse, being attacked or the loss of someone with whom you felt safe, such as a parent.
It’s also important to note that many people with agoraphobia have other mental health conditions too, like panic disorder, depression or PTSD. In particular, a large number of people with agoraphobia already had a panic disorder.Their agoraphobia may have been triggered after having a panic attack in a place where they felt unsafe or helpless.
While a panic attack in a public place might trigger agoraphobia, often these people already had some level of anxiety in these situations. So it may be a combination of panic disorder and existing agoraphobic tendencies.
One of the hallmarks of a phobia or other anxiety disorders is its impact on your daily life and the limitations that it creates for you. It can affect your work, romantic relationships, family relationships and social life in numerous ways.
You may decline social events and invitations due to anxiety about the situation, or struggle to complete work assignments if they involve situations that make you anxious. You could be limited in the types of jobs you can accept.
Maybe you can only able to perform jobs where you can work from home or jobs that don’t involve situations in public or crowded places. Finally, your relationships may suffer because you aren’t able to join loved ones for the things they enjoy doing.
Agoraphobia can even prevent you from taking care of yourself and living independently, especially when it is severe. It could prevent you from doing essential tasks like going to the grocery store or running other errands, such as going to the doctor.
Finally, agoraphobia can have a substantial impact on your mental health, especially if you have co occurring conditions already. It can worsen conditions like depression, because you feel trapped at home or aren’t able to do activities that could boost your serotonin. In some cases, it can make substance use disorder worse, too.
Agoraphobia changed my life over five years ago. I don’t drive, walk outside of house, only leave the house for doctors appointments or to see my hairdresser. It’ also affected the activities I did in the past with my husband. I’ve read some great information on how to slowly gain confidence on being by myself. I have a plan to start as soon as my shoulder heals from surgery.
If Agoraphobia is impacting you quality of life, I hear you, and wish you all the best at venturing out when the time is right for you.
I am in no way supporting the site or it’s service offers, it is just the great information.
Melinda
To read the entire article click HERE.
Reference:
I found his cell phone in the ashtray along with ten pairs of fingernail clippers, a knife, a small pair of scissors, a Corona Light bottle top, and three nickles and nine pennies.
On top is my favorite knife, the camping type with a fork and spoon, he gave to me when I was little, and a paper-towel covers them all. It’s been over eight years since I’ve stayed awhile with the memeries held in the ashtray.
The ashtray sat by my grandparent’s telephone for as long as I can remember. They didn’t believe in buying something new unless it was broken or you could no longer use it. The ashtray was very useful.
When I removed the paper towel today, the memories of my gramps came flooding back like a wave.
“If you’re going to be late to work, don’t go in.”
“If you can get out of bed, you can go to work”
“If you borrow something, give it back in better shape than when you borrowed it.”
He taught me responsibility and accountability.
He also taught me to drive. I was fourteen, we went to the river bottoms, two metal trashcans in the back of the 1969 Ambassador. He set them apart the right distance and had me practice until nightfall. I was still knocking down cans when we left. I did pass my driver’s test though.
One of the hardest memories was weeks before his death, telling him to call friends and family to let them know he was dying. Sitting in front of him, I dialed the numbers, handing him the phone and listened as he cried telling people he was no longer going to be here. It was one of the most difficult days of my life.
My gramps was the greatest man I’ve ever known, a true gentleman, a stand-up guy, God broke the mold when he made my gramps.
I found his cell phone in the ashtray……
Melinda
Repost form 2020
The FDA announced that various doses of prazosin hydrochloride have been voluntarily recalled
Drug makers have recalled more than 500,000 bottles of a blood pressure medication over concerns it may include a cancer-causing chemical.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that New Jersey-based Teva Pharmaceuticals USA and drugs distributor Amerisource Health Services issued voluntary nationwide recalls for various doses of prazosin hydrochloride, according to the Associated Press.
The drug makers said the pill capsules may have nitrosamine impurities — or “No-nitroso Prazosin impurity C” — that are considered potentially cancer causing. About 580,000 bottles of various strengths have been recalled for having the impurities.
The FDA classified the recall as having a Class II risk level, “in which use of or exposure to a violative product may cause temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences or where the probability of serious adverse health consequences is remote.”
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A statement from the California State Board of Pharmacy reads: “According to the Health Hazard Assessment by Teva USA, exposure to the product of concern could lead to severe adverse health consequences, but the likelihood of harm was assessed as remote. The overall risk of harm in the patient population is considered to be medium.’
The recalled bottles included 181,659 of 1 mg bottles, 291,512 of 2 mg bottles and 107,673 of 5 mg bottles. The bottles may have up to 1,000 capsules each with expiration dates ranging from November 2025 to February 2028.
The lot numbers and expiration dates can be found on the FDA’s website.
According to the AARP, anyone who has affected medication should contact their doctor or pharmacy for specific guidance, return their medication to the pharmacy to dispose of it, and to report any side effects or issues to the FDA.
The Mayo Clinic states that prazosin is prescribed to patients to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, which can cause the heart and arteries to not function properly and then damage brain, heart and kidneys. It can also result in a stroke, heart failure or kidney failure.
The medication is also sometimes prescribed for nightmares and other sleep disturbances caused by post-traumatic stress disorder, according to the AP.
Play it safe!
Melinda
Reference:
On October 2, 1985, actor Rock Hudson, 59, becomes the first major U.S. celebrity to die of complications from AIDS. Hudson’s death raised public awareness of the epidemic, which until that time had been ignored by many in the mainstream as a “gay plague.”
Hudson, born Leroy Harold Scherer Jr., on November 17, 1925, in Winnetka, Illinois, was a Hollywood heartthrob whose career in movies and TV spanned nearly three decades. With leading-man good looks, Hudson starred in numerous dramas and romantic comedies in the 1950s and 60s, including Magnificent Obsession, Giant and Pillow Talk. In the 1970s, he found success on the small screen with such series as McMillan and Wife. To protect his macho image, Hudson’s off-screen life as a gay man was kept secret from the public.
On October 2, 1965, a team of scientists invent Gatorade, a sports drink to quench thirst, in a University of Florida lab. The name “Gatorade” is derived from the nickname of the university’s sports teams. Eventually, the drink becomes a phenomenon and makes its inventors …read more
The former French colony of Guinea declares its independence on October 2, 1958, with Sekou Toure as the new nation’s first leader. Guinea was the sole French West African colony to opt for complete independence, rather than membership in the French Community, and soon …read more
Chief Justice Earl Warren swears in Thurgood Marshall, the first Black justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. As chief counsel for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) in the 1940s and ’50s, Marshall was the architect and executor of the legal …read more
On October 2, 1941, the Germans begin their surge to Moscow, led by the 1st Army Group and Gen. Fedor von Bock. Russian peasants in the path of Hitler’s army employ a “scorched-earth” policy. Hitler’s forces had invaded the Soviet Union in June, and early on it had become one …read more
Melinda
Best Buy Bones, Raw Bistro Pet Fare, and Foodynamics voluntarily recalled products in October
hree pet food brands are asking owners to check products affected by their voluntary recalls.
This month, three pet food companies recalled various products that may have been exposed to Salmonella. Popular brands Best Buy Bones, Raw Bistro Pet Fare, and Foodynamics each voluntarily recalled several lots of product, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported in separate October releases.
Salmonella exposure can affect pets and the humans who feed them.
The FDA shared that pets infected with Salmonella may experience diarrhea, fevers, vomiting, or general lethargy. Less extreme symptoms include decreased appetite and abdominal pain.
According to PetMD, pet parents should take their pet to the vet or an animal hospital if they have diarrhea that “occurs with decreased appetite, lethargy, fever, and blood in the stool.” With supportive care — hydration, rest, antibiotics — most dogs can weather a diagnosed Salmonella infection. PetMD noted that without treatment, diarrhea and illness caused by Salmonella “can lead to dehydration, sepsis, and even death.”
For humans handling contaminated pet food, unwashed hands and surfaces can increase the likelihood of exposure. If infected with Salmonella, people may experience “nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and fever,” according to the FDA. In rare cases, Salmonella exposure can lead to “arterial infections, endocarditis, arthritis, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms,” the agency’s releases added.
The following products were included in the recalls. If your pet has consumed a recalled product and displays any of the above symptoms, consult a veterinarian. If you experience any human-related Salmonella symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional.
Nature’s Own Pet Chews Bully Bites in 16 oz. bags
UPC# 739598900750
Raw Dog Barkery
Two packages of Whole Chicken Hearts in 16 oz. bags
BellePepper Cats
Two packages of Freeze Dried Chicken Heart Slices in 3 oz. bags + Samples
Kanu Pets
One package of Freeze Dried Chicken Heart Raw Treats in 3 oz. bag
What’s In the Bowl
Three packages of Whole Chicken Hearts: Two 3 oz. and one 16 oz. packages
Two sizes of Raw Bistro Dog Fare Grass-Fed Beef Entrée
3 lb bags
18 lb bags
American food safety has me greatly concernred.
Reference:
Thank you for joining me for this week’s Friday Quote.
Melinda
It’s the weekend!!!!!!
I’m glad you joined me for another edition of Weekend Music Share this week.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share, the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the Weekend Music Share banner in your post, and use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
I think everyone needs to know they matter, their life matters, health matters, with that foundation we can move forward on solid ground.
Melinda
A few changes can lead to significant benefits. This also applies to our health. Making some changes in our daily life we can put the first elements in motion for a complete rebirth. If you suffer with a chronic illness, it is even more important to start looking after your health and boosting your immune system. If you have a disability, even if you use a mobility scooter, you still try to move, only gently, if possible. Mobile scooters give disabled people the independence that they deserve and coupled with excellent diet and lifestyle, you can start to regain some confidence and happiness.
Vegetables are divided into two categories: starchy and non-starchy. Starchy vegetables are potatoes, corn and beans, non-starchy are spinach and other leafy vegetables, carrots, broccoli and cauliflower. Starchy vegetables have more calories than non-starchy ones. So by filling half the plate with non-starchy vegetables you ensure that you will receive all the necessary nutrients, water and fiber, but without many extra calories. It’s an easy strategy not to bother with calorie and portion counting. Processed carbohydrates, have almost no nutrients and no fiber. The only thing they have is calories that can make you gain weight.
In fact, a diet rich in processed carbohydrates – white bread, buns, white pastries, sweets, etc. – can increase the risk of developing type II diabetes and heart disease. Get rid of the bad habits! Unprocessed carbohydrates such as brown rice and whole grains enhance your diet with “good” calories, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Fatty fish such as salmon are an excellent source of omega – 3 fats, which are essential for good heart health and reducing inflammation in the body. They also enhance mental health. Drink green tea because this is going to be important to those with disabilities as it helps work as a toxin remover.
Quality sleep is the alpha and omega for health. And one of the things that destroys it is technology. Devices that emit “blue light”, a type of wave that is common during the day, “confuse” the brain, making it think it is morning. So by avoiding screen time before bed, you can improve the quality of sleep.
In addition to poor sleep quality, many people have trouble sleeping. This is largely due to poor rest planning. Having a specific time when you fall asleep, you train your body clock so that you can fall asleep more easily. At the same time, scheduled bedtime has a positive effect on concentration and memory.
t may seem very low on the list of things you have to do, but it is important to keep up with those regular health checks. Whether that is booking a hearing check at your local hearing center, or heading to the optician to get your eyes checked, these things are important to keep up the quality of life that you have.
Even a little negativity is enough to get you down. Try to spend more time with happy and optimistic people. If you have negative people in your inner circle, try to convey some of your positive thinking to them and change the direction. The rest is up to you and how you treat yourself. Don’t be hard on yourself and appreciate all the little things. Remember self-care is not selfish.
Collaborative Post
Melinda
Repost
You can find the entire list of Awareness Months, Weeks and Days by clicking here.
Native American Heritage Month
COPD Awareness Month
Diabetes Awareness Month
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month
National Homeless Youth Awareness Month
Melinda
Melinda
I’m glad you joined me on Wordless Wednesday and I hope to see you soon.
Melinda
I’m not into hypothetical questions yet this is a fun one. My first wish would ask for my worst health conditions to go away, including the high levels of pain I muddle through everyday. The second wish would be to spend as much time as possible with my Grandparents saying the things I did not say enough and asking all the questions I have for them. The third is a big ask because I am a curious person and have so many questions in my mind. I would like to spend time with someone who can give me uncomplicated answers to my questions.
Melinda
In America we have the FDA to approve all prescription medications, manufacturers have to prove their drug has all the data on clinical trials, and they even do down to approving what the label can have on it. If the FDA is not satisfied the FDA will tell the manufacturer to go get this information and reapply. That’s critical to know. In America, we have a system that all prescriptions go thru before being released to the public. They also have a section you can report adverse reactions or a medical device that failed. We have a system.
I know that people with chronic illnesses especially those with chronic pain have trouble getting the pain management they need and out of frustration turn to the Internet. BEWARE!
There are other countries that have a system in place but we have no idea if it matches our standards. There are also countries that have no system to verify the drugs are pure, they do what they say and they are monitored.
The FDA says this about online Pharmacies.
If you buy from any online site from another country, you have no guarantee of what’s inside. It could cause more harm to your body, it could have nothing in there to help you, and the worst is it can be laced with different products and can kill you.
That’s strong words I know but I have read too many articles and heard of personal stories where buying online was the worst move to make.
Melinda
References:
Yes, there are ligament Pharmacies online, I would check them out before you buy. Do an Internet search on the Pharmacy. You may be surprised what you find or you see they are legit Pharmacies you can go to. The key is what country is your medication coming from.
Where you can protect yourself is to search, search, and search before buying. Your health and life are more important. Personally, I would not buy a drug online unless my insurance company offers an online Pharmacy.
Melinda
Reference:
Repost
Your eyes help you see and navigate in your day-to-day life, so protecting them is paramount. Often, your eyes are even the first to show issues within the body, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
By understanding why it is important to take care of your eyes, you may be more likely to take steps toward improving your eye health.
One of the top reasons to care for your eyes is to reduce your risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. How can you do this? While there’s no concrete evidence on what can prevent these eye problems, some research has indicated that consuming an antioxidant-rich diet may help.
According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), here are some of the best antioxidants for your eye health:
There are several ways to protect your eye health. First and foremost, you’ll want to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an Independent Doctor of Optometry (or optometrist). It’s best to have one of these appointments per year to mitigate issues with your vision and ensure your eyes are in the best possible condition.
But what can you do before next year’s eye exam? You can take preventive steps to protect your eye health. Here are some simple tips on how to take care of your eyes daily:
Your eyes are critical to your everyday life beyond your vision. Why is it important to take care of your eyes? Taking steps to promote your eye health and safety can deter specific eye diseases and injuries. It can also help you identify changes in vision faster.
Here’s how to take care of your eyes daily:
Melinda
It’s really sad to say, but to a degree self-care has become a buzzword frequently portrayed in media and online as indulgent bubble baths, retail therapy, and the occasional junk food binge. Not just in shows, or in advertisements triyng to sell you stuff, but even on social media by the people you know, and of course by content creators too.
While yes, buying indulges and buying things that you love can actually be a really nice way to show yourself some life, you have to keep in mind that these also only offer temporary relief, and so true self-care is far more profound and personal. It’s about nurturing your mental, emotional, and physical well-being in ways that genuinely enrich Dr your life. So, with that said, it’s best to explore what self-care really means and how you can embrace it in a more meaningful way.
Self-care is often misunderstood as a quick fix or an escape from reality. However, true self-care involves intentional actions that support your overall health and happiness. It’s about listening to your body and mind, understanding your needs, and taking steps to meet those needs in healthy and sustainable ways. This might mean setting boundaries, saying no to commitments that drain you, or seeking help when you need it.
Basically, the less love and care you show yourself, the higher the chances of stress and even the potential of forming anxiety. Actually, true self-care is often found in the small, mindful practices that help you stay grounded and connected to yourself. This might include a daily walk in nature, practicing yoga, or spending time on a hobby that you love. It’s about finding joy and peace in the everyday moments.
But this isn’t always the case; mindful practices will vary from person to person. While one person might feel relaxed walking out on a trail in nature, there might be someone else who feels more at ease and relaxed if you’re at home and using delta-8 THC gummies since these offer a more calming and gentle effect. But overall, mindful practices help prevent chronic anxiety from forming, and again, the best way to go about it really varies from person to person.
The media often promotes self-care as something that provides instant gratification—like a shopping spree or indulging in comfort food. By all means, yes, while these activities can offer momentary pleasure, they don’t address the deeper issues that may be affecting your well-being.
In fact, relying on these quick fixes can sometimes lead to feelings of guilt or regret afterward. So, you have to understand that true self-care involves making choices that contribute to your long-term well-being, even if they don’t provide immediate pleasure.
Just think of it this way: You’re spending money on things that give you small bits of gratification immediately, like junk food, but at the end of the day, you’re going to feel bad for the money you spent, and you might feel physically bad too because, well, it’s junk food. The same goes for shopping sprees too. Now, emotional health usually gets overlooked in mainstream portrayals. You need to understand your thoughts and gain clarity on what you need to feel balanced and fulfilled.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Sadness is a temporary state that often has a clear cause, like a big disappointment, the loss of someone close to you, or bad news from someone you love.
This type of sadness can fluctuate throughout the day. In certain moments, the emotional burden might feel particularly heavy. You might cry often, feel numb or drained, and struggle to concentrate.
At other times — when you get lost in something you enjoy or when a loved one distracts you — your sorrow may seem light enough that you can barely feel its weight. While it might linger in some form for days or weeks, it generally begins to ease naturally.
Persistent sadness is something else entirely. It can wrap around you like a heavy blanket, muffling the sensations and joy of everyday life. This sadness can leave you feeling low, empty, and defeated. You don’t know what caused your unhappiness, so you have no idea how to start feeling better.
Feeling sad isn’t at all unusual. After all, sorrow is a normal human response to disappointment and loss. Sadness that doesn’t have a clear reason behind it and doesn’t seem to improve, however, may suggest something else is going on.
While not everyone with depression will feel sad, unexplainable sadness you can’t seem to shake is one of the primary signs of depression.
If your sadness does relate to depression, you’ll likely feel sad nearly all of the time — almost every day, for most of each day, for a period of 2 weeks or longer. Sadness, in other words, seems to become a constant companion.
With depression, you’ll experience other symptoms, too. If several of the signs below accompany your sad or tearful mood, there’s a good chance you’re dealing with depression:
Chronic sadness, especially when related to depression, might also prompt regular thoughts of death or suicide. Even if you don’t have a plan to act on these thoughts, it’s always best to talk to someone you trust and get support right away (more on how to do this later).
You might begin to notice your feelings of sadness, along with any other symptoms you experience, follow a specific pattern. Depression can take different forms, and various underlying factors can have an impact on the way your symptoms show up.
A few things to look for:
People living with bipolar disorder often experience episodes of depression as part of a cycle that also includes episodes of mania or hypomania.
You might notice you suddenly feel intensely happy, even euphoric. This abrupt change in mood might also involve:
This episode might last a week, or longer.
Somewhere around 40 percentTrusted Source of people with bipolar disorder have what’s known as mixed features. You could experience sadness and other symptoms of depression at the same time as mania.
This combination of symptoms can make it harder to understand what you’re experiencing, which could add to your distress.
Maybe your sadness seems to arrive or intensify around the same time of year the days begin to shorten. Once the longer, sunnier days of spring and summer arrive, you feel better, year after year.
It’s pretty common to feel a little low in autumn and winter. The nights get long and cold, and there are plenty of days when you may not even see the sun.
If this seasonal sadness persists and becomes serious enough to affect daily life, you could have seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that occurs along with seasonal changes.
Along with other common depression symptoms, you might also notice:
To read the complete article here.
There are many reasons we feel sad, and luckily, there’s a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate. My first step would be to call your doctor.
Melinda
Repost
What is your favorite form of physical exercise?
This will be the shortest answer I’ve written. Before my health ruled my days I was very active but I’ve been not one to exercise. Today my answer is a big NO! I don’t like traditional exercise and always found a way to get plenty outside. For many reasons that is not an option.
I do play with the dogs and walk the when I can. Currently I am rehabbing my shoulder after surgery so there is some specific exercises I do that I will not be doing once rehab is completed. I know the health benefits, my health conditions are more important at this time.
Melinda
Looking for the Light
I have published this post a couple of times and always get good feedback. There nothing more important than your health.
Over the years, you might have heard the term ‘superfood’ used increasingly. But what really does it mean? Well, in simple terms, these are foods that are packed with nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, and so are associated with positive impacts on your health. But how do you know what superfoods to eat then?
The thing is, you may currently include a good number of superfoods in your diet without even knowing, so this list of the 10 most popular superfoods has been put together so that you are made away of well-known superfoods, as well as to inform you about some superfoods that you may not be familiar with.
1. Eggs
Eggs are one of those foods that have stood the test of both time and criticism. No doubt, they are pretty healthy and come loaded with very high-quality proteins. More than that, eggs contain a plethora of minerals and vitamins, some of which include vitamin A, B vitamins, choline, and iron. They also contain two very powerful antioxidants, namely zeaxanthin and lutein, which are known for protecting vision and boosting eyesight. That being said, if you are having issues with your vision, don’t hesitate to visit https://eyeglasses.com for some more information.
2. Dark leafy greens
A lot of people aren’t fans of dark leafy greens, but they’re one of the best superfoods to exist. These types of greens contain several nutrients that the body needs to heal, including zinc, iron, magnesium, fiber, and vitamin C. More so, dark leafy greens have earned their place in the superfoods hall of fame. They might also help reduce your risks of suffering from chronic illnesses such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Some examples of these dark leafy greens are kale, spinach, collard greens, and Swiss chard which can be incorporated into your diet via smoothies, soups, and salads.
3. Berries
Many of us who love berries are unaware of the amazing effects that eating them have on the body. For one, berries are very rich in vitamins and minerals as well as certain antioxidants. In fact, berries are particularly effective when it comes to treating digestive issues and are often used in modern medical therapies. Examples of these fruits include blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and raspberries. You can eat them as they are, or add them to smoothies and desserts.
4. Avocado
Simply put, avocados are great. Yes, they’re good for guacamole, but more than that, this superfood is very rich in healthy fats that keep you feeling full for longer. It also comes packed with antioxidants and fiber that all work to protect against heart diseases. Additionally, this food is can be eaten even on a diet and is even recommended on the Keto diet. Delicious ways to incorporate avocado in your diet include serving it on your morning toast to adding it as an essential ingredient to smoothies and salads.
5. Chia seeds
Chia seeds are tiny, black seeds that have taken the health industry by storm over the past few years. No doubt, these seeds pack a powerful punch when it comes to nutrition. Firstly, they contain pretty much all the essential minerals including calcium, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus. In addition, vitamin B1, B2, and B3 are also available in abundance. More so, 28 grams of chia seeds contain 11 grams of fiber and just one gram of digestible carbohydrates, making it one of the most suitable foods out there for a low carb diet.
6. Coconut
When it comes to versatile foods, coconuts are out there at the top. They can be consumed as coconut water, coconut oil, coconut flour, coconut flakes, and even just coconut meat. More so, this super food can easily be incorporated into your diet without any headache.
That said, in terms of what makes it so ‘super’ coconut oil especially contains medium-chain triglycerides, which are used as a source of energy once in the body. Furthermore, coconut water is high in vitamins and minerals including potassium, magnesium, sodium, and vitamin C.On top of this, coconut flour is low in gluten and carbs and can be used for baking and desserts.
7. Flax seeds
Flax seeds are one of those foods that didn’t become popular until recently. These seeds contribute towards a healthy heart as they come packed with omega 3 fatty acids that work as anti-inflammatory agents. More som flax seeds can be added to your salads and smoothies by grinding them into a semi fine powder. That being said, they do have other uses apart from consumption. In fact, flax seeds also come in handy as a home remedy for hair growth.
8. Hemp seeds
Yet another super seed is hemp seed. This is a great source of healthy proteins and contains omega 3 and omega 3 fats; both of which work together to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases in the body. More recent studies also associate hemp seeds with relieving the symptoms of menopause in women. For consumption, these seeds are typically toasted lightly and then added to foods like salads, oatmeal, and cereal.
9. Salmon
When next you go grocery shopping, be sure to pick up some salmon. This fish is rich in healthy oils that are a great source of energy and contains inflammation reducing omega 3 fats. More so, this fish is packed with wildly sourced protein that can provide you with almost 60 percent of your daily recommended protein intake. It also contains vitamin D as well as bioactive peptides that help in collagen production.
10. Cocoa nibs
Cocoa nibs are essentially just healthier chocolates. These foods range from really sweet to very bitter, so you get to choose just how you like it. More so, it is a great source of fiber and it also contains a good amount of iron and magnesium. More than that, research has shown that eating cocoa nibs can help elevate your mood and brain activity. As for preparation, they can be used in desserts, smoothie bowls, or just on their own as a nice snack.
Melinda
Repost
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 distancing to get back to normal. I’m lucky that I don’t have the worst symptoms yet.
Hypocalcemia (Calcium Deficiency Disease)
Calcium is a vital mineral. Your body uses it to build strong bones and teeth. Calcium is also needed for your heart and other muscles to function properly. When you don’t get enough calcium, you increase your risk of developing disorders like:
Children who don’t get enough calcium may not grow to their full potential height as adults.
You should consume the recommended amount of calcium per day through the food you eat, supplements, or vitamins.
Many people are at an increased risk for calcium deficiency as they age. This deficiency may be due to a variety of factors, including:
It’s important to ensure proper calcium intake at all ages.
For children and teenagers, the recommended daily allowances for calcium are the same for both sexes. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the daily allowances are:
According to the U.S. government’s dietary guidelinesTrusted Source, calcium requirements for adults are:
Women need to increase their calcium intake earlier in life than men, starting in middle age. Meeting the necessary calcium requirement is particularly important as a woman approaches menopause.
The hormone disorder hypoparathyroidism may also cause calcium deficiency disease. People with this condition don’t produce enough parathyroid hormone, which controls calcium levels in the blood.
During menopause, women should also increase their calcium intake to reduce the risk of osteoporosis and calcium deficiency disease. The decline in the hormone estrogen during menopause causes a woman’s bones to thin faster.
Other causes of hypocalcemia include malnutrition and malabsorption. Malnutrition is when you’re not getting enough nutrients, while malabsorption is when your body can’t absorb the vitamins and minerals you need from the food you eat. Additional causes include:
If you miss your daily dose of calcium, you won’t become calcium deficient overnight. But it’s still important to make an effort to get enough calcium every day, since the body uses it quickly. Vegans are more likely to become calcium deficient quickly because they don’t eat calcium-rich dairy products.
Calcium deficiency won’t produce short-term symptoms because the body maintains calcium levels by taking it directly from the bones. But long-term low levels of calcium can have serious effects.
Early stage calcium deficiency may not cause any symptoms. However, symptoms will develop as the condition progresses.
Severe symptoms of hypocalcemia include:
Calcium deficiencies can affect all parts of the body, resulting in weak nails, slower hair growth, and fragile, thin skin.
Calcium also plays an important role in both neurotransmitter release and muscle contractions. So, calcium deficiencies can bring on seizures in otherwise healthy people.
If you start experiencing neurological symptoms like memory loss, numbness and tingling, hallucinations, or seizures, make an appointment to see your doctor as soon as possible.
Contact your doctor if you have symptoms of calcium deficiency disease. They’ll review your medical history and ask you about family history of calcium deficiency and osteoporosis.
If your doctor suspects calcium deficiency, they’ll take a blood sample to check your blood calcium level. Your doctor will measure your total calcium level, your albumin level, and your ionized or “free” calcium level. Albumin is a protein that binds to calcium and transports it through the blood. Sustained low calcium levels in your blood may confirm a diagnosis of calcium deficiency disease.
Normal calcium levels for adults can range from 8.8 to 10.4 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), according to the Merck Manual. You may be at risk for calcium deficiency disease if your calcium level is below 8.8 mg/dL. Children and teens typically have higher blood calcium levels than adults.
Calcium deficiency is usually easy to treat. It typically involves adding more calcium to your diet.
Do not self-treat by taking a lot of calcium supplements. Taking more than the recommended dose without your doctor’s approval can lead to serious issues like kidney stones.
Commonly recommended calcium supplements include:
Calcium supplements are available in liquid, tablet, and chewable forms.
It’s important to note that some medications could interact negatively with calcium supplements. These medications include:
Sometimes diet changes and supplements aren’t enough to treat a calcium deficiency. In this case, your doctor may want to regulate your calcium levels by giving you regular calcium injections.
You can expect to see results within the first few weeks of treatment. Severe cases of calcium deficiency disease will be monitored at one- to three-month intervals.
Complications from calcium deficiency disease include eye damage, an abnormal heartbeat, and osteoporosis.
Complications from osteoporosis include:
If left untreated, calcium deficiency disease could eventually be fatal.
You can prevent calcium deficiency disease by including calcium in your diet every day.
Be aware that foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, can also be high in saturated fat and trans fat. Choose low-fat or fat-free options to reduce your risk of developing high cholesterol and heart disease.
You can get 1/4 to 1/3 of your RDA of calcium in a single serving of some milks and yogurts. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)Trusted Source, other calcium-rich foods include:
While meeting your calcium requirement is very important, you also want to make sure you’re not getting too much. According to the Mayo Clinic, upper limits of calcium intake in milligrams (mg) for adults are:
You might want to supplement your diet by taking a multivitamin. Or your doctor may recommend supplements if you’re at high risk for developing a calcium deficiency.
Multivitamins may not contain all of the calcium you need, so be sure to eat a well-rounded diet. If you’re pregnant, take a prenatal vitamin.
Vitamin D is important because it increases the rate calcium is absorbed into your blood. Ask your doctor how much vitamin D you need.
To increase your calcium intake, you can add food rich in vitamin D to your diet. These include:
As with calcium-rich dairy products, some vitamin D-rich dairy products can also be high in saturated fat.
Sunlight triggers your body to make vitamin D, so getting regular exposure to the sun can also help boost your vitamin D levels.
Melinda
I started my first Bucket List in 2015, updated it in 2021 and again in 2025, now it’s time to adjust my list to what I can accomplish with my health conditions. It will include some items that are be pie in the sky yet I believe we have to stretch our mind for the possibilities. Fun days are ahead.
Surfing lessons
Parasail
Visit Raptor Center
Complete Ancestry Trees
Learn more about my Cherokee Indian heritage
NASCAR Ride Along
Hand Knitting
Visit Niagara Falls
Visit Bronx Zoo
Visit many National Parks
Take several courses on Photography
Buy a lens that allows me to take photos of space
Donate Granny’s quilts to the seniors’ center
Visit Ukraine
Fly in F16 and do a roll over
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
My husband turned me onto this song and I laughed so hard then after listening to the words, it hit me he’s talking about what kind of life is important to him. Enjoy!
It’s the weekend!!!!!!
I’m glad you joined me for another edition of Weekend Music Share this week.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share, the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the Weekend Music Share banner in your post, and use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Thank you for joining me for this week’s Friday Quote.
Melinda
lookingforthelight.blog 
