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  • Beyond Sobriety: Rediscovering Your Passion and Purpose – Morning Lazziness

    Beyond Sobriety: Rediscovering Your Passion and Purpose – Morning Lazziness

    Congratulations on taking the first steps toward a better future if you have been struggling with addiction and are recently sober. Recovery is hard work that requires time and dedication, but it can also open up new windows of opportunity to find your purpose in life.

    Rediscovering the dreams and passions of your past may seem like a daunting task after years of battling addiction. Still, with patience and determination, you can begin redefining yourself — not as an addict or recovering person — but as a dynamic individual free to search for meaning beyond the sobriety. In this article, we’ll explore ways that you can nurture your self-confidence while finding clarity about your goals.

    Introducing a New Outlook on Sobriety

    As society evolves, so do the strategies for attaining sobriety. For decades, the traditional model of abstinence-based programs, while effective for many people, has been the go-to method for rehab facilities. However, new research suggests that harm reduction-based programs could also be viable for individuals seeking an alternative approach to achieving a sober lifestyle.

    These programs provide a more realistic and balanced treatment plan by reducing the risks associated with addiction rather than ceasing the behavior altogether. While it may not be the right approach for everyone, introducing this new outlook on sobriety is essential to offering more comprehensive care to individuals struggling with addiction. The Dawn is a great place to start.

    The Benefits of Finding Meaning and Fulfillment in Life

    Once you have achieved sobriety, it’s time to start thinking about how you can live a meaningful life without reliance on substances. In recovery, individuals often feel overwhelmed with newfound freedom and lack of direction; however, it is also an opportunity for personal growth.

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    The best way to start is by taking time to care for yourself and recognize your needs. It could involve learning new hobbies or skills, rekindling old friendships, or exploring forms of self-expression such as art, music, or writing. By investing in yourself and building a sense of purpose, you can begin to find joy in the everyday moments of life that may have eluded you during your active addiction.

    Also Read: 7 Signs That Indicate it’s Time for a Career Change

    Exploring Different Hobbies and Interests After Recovery

    When finding your passion in recovery, taking a step back and assessing what activities you may have lost interest in due to addiction is essential. Many individuals struggle with starting from scratch, but there are plenty of ways to start rebuilding an enjoyable lifestyle.

    Researching different hobbies or interests is a great way to begin your journey. Whether volunteering at a local charity, joining a sports team, exploring nature photography, or learning how to cook — find something that excites you and pursue it. And don’t forget to check out clubs or organizations at your university or college for more ideas.

    Also Read: 6 Effective Ways to Maintain Healthy Hair

    Reconnecting with Friends & Family for Support 

    best friends according to Zodiac signs

    Reuniting with friends and family after recovery can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. While opening up about your journey and how you’ve changed may be intimidating, it will ultimately help you heal from the past and create genuine relationships moving forward.

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    Another important aspect of reconnecting is asking for help when needed. Friends and family can provide invaluable support during times of difficulty or when you need advice on taking steps toward personal growth. It could involve attending regular meetings, getting involved in sober activities, or finding a mentor who has gone through the same struggles as you. With their assistance, you can build a network of positivity that will enhance your recovery process.

    Setting Goals to Overcome Challenges in Recovery

    Having clear and measurable goals is essential for making progress during recovery. Whether you’re looking to stay sober, get a degree, or find employment, having attainable objectives that are written down will help keep you focused and motivated.

    Start by breaking large tasks down into smaller steps with achievable deadlines; this will make it easier to manage your expectations and stay on track with your journey. Additionally, reward yourself after reaching each milestone — this could be anything from taking a day off work to buying yourself something nice. Recognizing the effort you put into overcoming challenges and growing as an individual in recovery is essential.

    Making Healthy Choices to Stay on Track

    The road to recovery is long and winding; to stay on track, making healthy daily choices is essential. It could involve anything from eating nutritious meals and exercising regularly to meditating or journaling when feeling overwhelmed.

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    It would help to create an environment conducive to your recovery goals. Please eliminate triggers such as drugs or alcohol, and replace them with positive activities. Surround yourself with people who will provide emotional support and hold you accountable for staying clean — including family members, close friends, or a therapist. Finally, take time out each day to be grateful for your progress so far — this can help keep you motivated and inspired.

    In Conclusion

    Finding your passion in recovery is a journey of self-discovery and growth. Though it may seem daunting initially, you can use the tips outlined above to guide you toward joy and fulfillment. With patience, dedication, and support from loved ones, you can find balance and rediscover the passions that make life worth living.

    Shruti Sood

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  • Coffee and How It Can Help You Before Working Out- Morning Lazziness

    Coffee and How It Can Help You Before Working Out- Morning Lazziness

    There are many myths about the effects of coffee on the body. Some researchers believe that it’s harmful and incompatible with an active lifestyle and workouts in the gym, while others are convinced of the drink’s health benefits.

    Let’s understand, based on the results of recent studies, whether it’s possible to drink coffee before training, what benefits and harms it brings to the body, and how it affects the effectiveness of sports.

    The Main Benefits of Coffee Before a Workout

    Coffee contains more than one hundred different components, so its use influences the biochemical processes occurring in the body. The main effect is produced by caffeine, an alkaloid contained in coffee beans, which stimulates the central nervous system. That’s why taking an aromatic drink causes increased activity – most people respond to caffeine with increased energy and improved mood.

    Taking just one cup of coffee blocks the production of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that inhibits alertness and stimulates sleep. The brain reacts by releasing adrenaline and dopamine, which cause a burst of energy. As a result, you feel that you can do everything from just playing at Hellspin Casino or cooking to completing job tasks and working out.

    Under the influence of caffeine in the body:

    • The heart speeds up.
    • The blood vessels constrict.
    • Blood pressure rises.
    • It speeds up the metabolism.
    • The work of the muscular system is stimulated.
    • Activity and concentration increase.

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    Adrenaline production accelerates the release of fatty acids into the blood. During physical activity the muscles will use them as an energy source, saving valuable glycogen reserves.

    If you drink coffee before a workout, you will increase your stamina and ability to endure the load for a longer time during the workout.

    It’s proved that caffeine, by stimulating the release of adrenaline, can increase muscle strength and enhance muscle contraction. The feeling of physical tension is dulled, which allows you to do more repetitions or lift more weight.

    Also Read: What Does Coffee Do To Your body?

    Scientific studies have shown that two cups of coffee (470 ml) increases training efficiency and performance by 22%. Strength performance increases by 10%.

    Thus, drinking coffee before exercise will greatly increase workout efficiency because of the caffeine:

    • Dulls the feeling of fatigue and increases performance.
    • Allows you to sustain aerobic activity for a longer time.
    • Alleviates muscle pain during strength exercises.
    • Increases testosterone levels (a hormone that helps athletes build muscle mass).
    • Stimulates the CNS by increasing activity, concentration on exercise technique, and reaction speed.

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    Increasing the intensity of exercise increases the load on muscles, which stimulates the growth of muscle mass, and accelerates the burning of fat reserves.

    In general, pre-workout coffee allows you to achieve better performance in the sport. It isn’t for nothing that caffeine is included in many pre-training complexes, sports supplements, and fat burners.

    Also Read: 5 Reasons Why You Should Drink Coffee Everyday

    Harms and Contraindications to Pre-workout Caffeine

    Any stimulant can cause adverse reactions in the body, especially when used in large doses. Individual intolerance to caffeine and allergic reactions may also be observed. With some diseases, coffee is generally contraindicated, while the use of this generally useful drink before training can cause unpredictable health consequences.

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    Don’t consume caffeine-containing drinks and sports supplements before physical activity at the gym:

    • If you have arterial hypertension.
    • Pregnant and lactating women.
    • At high nervous excitability.
    • For gastric and duodenal ulcers and gastritis with hyperacidity.
    • Severe visual impairments, glaucoma.

    People over 50 years of age or those who have diseases of the cardiovascular system should also refrain from fragrant drinks before training. In any case, the possibility of its use should be discussed with your doctor.

    But even healthy athletes need to consider that taking coffee has side effects and can lead to adverse health consequences:

    • When consumed on an empty stomach, it irritates the stomach mucosa and can provoke the development of gastritis and ulcers, as caffeine increases the secretion of gastric juice.
    • It hurts blood flow in the blood vessels, putting an additional load on the heart and reducing the flow of oxygen to the organs.
    • Causes a slight diuretic effect (acts as a diuretic). If there is a lack of fluid in the body it leads to a violation of the water-salt balance and increases the load on the kidneys.
    • Stimulates bowel muscles and acts as a mild laxative. Sometimes it causes colic, diarrhea, and indigestion.
    • Affects the absorption of drugs – reduces or, conversely, increases the absorption of some drugs.
    • Increases anxiety and may cause depression.

    Caffeine as a stimulant is addictive and dependent. To get an invigorating effect, it’s necessary to increase the amount of coffee consumed, which entails many negative health consequences.

    When the body becomes addicted to caffeine, the drink before sporting activities will no longer stimulate performance and refresh your body. Moreover, it can lead to rapid exhaustion and a feeling of fatigue.

    How and How Much Coffee to Drink Before a Workout

    coffee

    To ensure that drinking coffee before a workout has only a positive effect on the body and doesn’t cause side effects, it’s important to know how and how much it’s recommended to drink.

    According to WHO recommendations, you can drink 300-500 mg of caffeine during the day without harming your health. The norm is 3-5 mg/kg of weight. Depending on the variety of coffee and its roasting, one cup of energizing drink contains 80-120 mg of caffeine. This means that you can drink no more than 3 cups a day without fear of negative health consequences.

    But the optimal dose of caffeine depends a lot on the individual characteristics of the person and the frequency of consumption of an invigorating drink. At its daily intake, even 400 grams of caffeine are almost imperceptible to the body. Some people after drinking just one cup of coffee experience symptoms of overdose (heart palpitations, dizziness, high blood pressure).

    For the consumption of flavored drinks before the fitness session to have a stimulating and fat-burning effect, you should drink 1-2 cups 40 minutes before the physical activity. In this dosage, it’s safe for the nervous and cardiovascular system and doesn’t have a pronounced diuretic effect. Coffee should be drunk without sugar and cream – then it will contain a minimum of calories and will have the desired effect on the body.

    If you take it just before a workout at the gym, the drink won’t have time to work because caffeine reaches its maximum concentration in the blood 40-50 minutes after consumption.

    To increase the efficiency of training and fast recovery, it’s recommended to drink natural coffee made in a coffee machine or brewed in a decanter. It’s better to give up instant coffee.

    Frequent consumption of coffee in large doses (more than four cups daily) hurts the body:

    • Quickly comes a tolerance (addiction) to caffeine.
    • There are signs of nervous system exhaustion (irritability, insomnia, anxiety without reason, depression).
    • Reduced ability to work.
    • The risk of heart attack, stroke, and early death increases (fourfold).
    • Urinary incontinence may occur.
    • Increases the risk of gout.

    To prevent addiction and reduce the effect of taking coffee before a workout, you should consume it no more than twice a week. It’s advisable to take a ten-day break after one month of regular consumption.

    Can You Drink Coffee After Your Workout?

    French Press Coffee

    It isn’t recommended to drink coffee after an intense power or cardio workout. Physical activity is already a kind of stress for the body, which reacts by releasing adrenaline. Drinking coffee immediately after it will cause additional strain on your heart and blood vessels.

    After working out, it’s recommended to drink coffee only 30-40 minutes later. An invigorating drink will give you strength and energy when you feel weak after exhausting exertion.

    There is another plus in drinking coffee after exercise – caffeine helps minimize pain syndrome and faster muscle recovery (according to studies by 48%).

    What’s Better Than Coffee or Caffeine Pills?

    Instead of coffee, you can take 2-3 tablets of caffeine sodium benzoate to increase the effectiveness of the workout. One tablet contains 40 g of caffeine and 60 g of the auxiliary substance sodium benzoate, which increases the solubility of absorption of the active component. This is the only caffeine-containing drug that is available in pharmacies without a prescription.

    Scientific studies have not yet revealed which source of caffeine is the best: natural coffee or synthetic pills. Each organism is different, so only by experimenting can you find out which of them has a greater stimulating effect and is suitable for you.

    Caffeine pills will be a real cure-all for those who, for whatever reason, don’t like to drink coffee, but want to increase muscle strength and lose weight faster.

    Pre-workout Coffee for Weight Loss

    Recent studies confirm that drinking coffee in conjunction with exercise helps you lose weight faster. Caffeine speeds up the metabolism and has fat-burning properties: it promotes the release of fatty acids from fatty tissue into the blood, which is then oxidized in the muscles during exercise. Moreover, it regulates blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing hunger.

    For weight loss, you should drink 1-2 cups of a freshly brewed drink without sugar and cream (you can add a little milk) 30 minutes before cardio or strength training.

    Harvard scientists found that green coffee promotes weight loss to a greater extent than black coffee. The average weight loss of the subjects in three months was 5.5 and 3 kg, respectively.

    What Can Replace Coffee?

    Coffee is rich, but not the only source of caffeine. This substance is found in considerable quantities:

    • Energy drinks – up to 100 mg per 150 ml.
    • Tea leaves – 60 mg in a cup of black tea and 75 g of green tea.
    • Coca-Cola – 40 mg.

    Most thermogenic sports supplements also contain caffeine. There is even a protein-enriched coffee (Protein Coffee by Scitec Nutrition) to make a nutritional shake for bodybuilders. One dose of the drink contains 27 g of protein and 100 mg of caffeine.

    Besides coffee to increase stamina and muscle strength before strength training to gain muscle mass, you can use sports nutrition with caffeine and energy drinks. For weight loss, it’s better to drink a cup of strong tea before exercising instead of coffee.

    Shruti Sood

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  • 4 Reasons Why We Have a Hard Time Talking about Loneliness

    4 Reasons Why We Have a Hard Time Talking about Loneliness

    In society, we are bombarded by media as well as social media. We live in a world that’s more connected than ever. Yet so many people are lonelier than ever. This is especially true for people within the church.

    Although we may feel like we’re really connected to people, the reality is we have people in our lives that know the least about us. We go to church on Sunday, grab a cup of coffee, worship the Lord, and then leave without anyone even saying hello or wanting to know more about us.

    This contributes to a superficial level of communication that we think solves the problem of loneliness. Not only that, but people often don’t want to talk about loneliness as Christians because they feel if they do, they’re not connected to God, or they’ll be judged in some way.

    We all experience loneliness from time to time. Jesus himself went to lonely places to pray. Loneliness can be a good thing if we take the time to be alone to examine our thoughts and analyze behaviors.

    However, people often put on a fake smile when in church or at work. It’s difficult to tell people that we’re lonely. Here are some reasons why people don’t like to talk about loneliness.

    1. We Believe Something Is Wrong with Us

    As a pastor’s wife, I often get ostracized in my local church. It is difficult for me to achieve intimacy with people in the congregation.

    Because people think they can’t be real in front of me because I might tell my husband what we discuss, it only increases the amount of loneliness and the desperate need for affection in the community.

    You may feel because you don’t have friends or connect with people often, people will think and believe there’s something wrong with you. God created community for a reason.

    Communities afford us fellowship with one another. You can’t have community without isolation. Yet it is important for us to be alone so God can speak to us.

    2. We Don’t Want Pity

    Once we start talking about how lonely we are to others, people feel like they must meet up with us out of guilt.

    People don’t want to feel lonely because they feel like they’re being punished or their personality is too hard to deal with. Yet God created us all individually with a purpose and a plan.

    God speaks through prophetic visions and dreams, but if we’re not alone long enough to hear from him, we can’t achieve deeper intimacy with God.

    People often want to avoid loneliness by turning on a television or music just to take away the fact that they have no one around them.

    Loneliness can come in a couple of forms: we can feel lonely because no one knows us, or we feel lonely even with a crowd of people around us. Either way, you can use that loneliness to your advantage and take time to be with God.

    3. We Don’t Want to Be Vulnerable

    People don’t like to talk about loneliness because they must deal with issues buried deep in the soul. People don’t like talking about loneliness because it seems like a bad thing. But loneliness isn’t always bad. Here are some ways loneliness is a good thing.

    First, it gives us a deeper relationship with the Savior. Although God can speak in any capacity he wishes, it is more difficult when we are surrounded by other technologies that don’t allow the Lord to speak.

    By being alone, I can read the Word in more depth and ask God to share his deep thoughts with me. But I can’t do that if I’m with people constantly.

    Second, it allows me to pray. Scripture says we should “pray without ceasing.” This means praying continuously throughout the day. But this is hard to accomplish at work or at home with their families.

    If Jesus found it appropriate to get up early, go to lonely places, and pray, then we should too. We should begin every day with this time of silence and aloneness, ready to hear from God and pray we give over to him every need and desire we have.

    Third, when we are lonely, it gives us an opportunity to commune with God through his Word.  When we are lonely, the first thing we should grab is the Bible. If we grab for other things, such as music, television, or food or drink, we need to analyze why we’re doing it.

    Loneliness is there for a reason. We need to make new friends and commune with people whom we trust. The lonelier we are, the more untrusting we become. We become untrustworthy individuals when we are alone for long periods of time.

    When we’re going about our day, it is easy to think we don’t need anyone. This creates independence when we should be in community. Analyze your church and see if there are people who are in similar situations, backgrounds, or ages as you.

    Strive to increase your fellowship this year by participating in events or simply exercise your gift to hospitality by having people over your home. Some of the best moments I’ve communed with God were not in the Sunday church service but rather having people over at my home.

    The ability to become vulnerable eradicates superficiality when we are at home. This will help you not feel lonely but realize that people accept you as you are.

    4. We Fear Rejection

    Loneliness can make us feel rejected and unaccepted. Some of people’s deepest needs of acceptance and approval from others. Although we are to run to God with our needs, fellowship does have its place.

    When we are being encouraged by our local church brothers and sisters, we get rid of loneliness and embrace community. As you meet with people regularly, you will find any critical spirit you may have made all but dissipate.

    Loneliness can be difficult at times. But there’s hope. By sharing fellowship with people and engaging in real fellowship, you will experience acceptance and approval like never before. We all need people to hold their hands up when we are struggling.

    That is part of the whole community in your life. When we are absent from that community, we experience loneliness. Holiness is also a lure for the enemy to speak lies into our lives. If gone unchecked, those lies can become what we believe.

    When we exchange the Word of God for a lie, we don’t experience an interdependent life in Christ. If we can learn to be in fellowship and accept people as they are, we can speak into their lives when they’re struggling.

    We were never meant to do life on our own. Throughout Scripture, we see disciples going out two by two. Adam had Eve and there are many other examples of people who were never alone on their journey. Above all, you know that God has not left you. He’s there more than you realize.

    Loneliness can be the catalyst for us to experience true community as we become more vulnerable and allow others to accept us as we are. When we do, we experience an intimate relationship with God like never before.

    For further reading:

    What Does the Bible Say about Loneliness?

    hristianity.com/wiki/god/can-god-help-us-in-our-loneliness.html”>Can God Help Us in Our Loneliness?

    How Does the Bible Help with My Loneliness?

    5 Ways to Overcome Loneliness in Your Marriage

    Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/martin-dm

    Michelle S. Lazurek is a multi-genre award-winning author, speaker, pastor’s wife, and mother. She is a literary agent for Wordwise Media Services and a certified writing coach. Her new children’s book Who God Wants Me to Be encourages girls to discover God’s plan for their careers. When not working, she enjoys sipping a Starbucks latte, collecting 80s memorabilia, and spending time with her family and her crazy dog. For more info, please visit her website www.michellelazurek.com.

    This article originally appeared on Christianity.com. For more faith-building resources, visit

    Christianity.com. Christianity.com

    Michelle S. Lazurek

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  • What To Do If She Pulls Away

    What To Do If She Pulls Away

    What To Do If She Pulls Away

    Tripp Advice

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  • The Importance of Quality Control in Drug Manufacturing: Ensuring Safe and Effective Medications – Morning Lazziness

    The Importance of Quality Control in Drug Manufacturing: Ensuring Safe and Effective Medications – Morning Lazziness

    When a pharma company compromises on the quality of the medicines, it not only puts the users at risk but also degrades the trust in the company. 

    Quality is a must when it comes to putting your hold on the pharma industry. Not abiding by quality standards and controls, the pharma company can lose credibility. And this is something that you won’t want it to happen as a drug manufacturer. 

    So, in this blog, you’ll know all the essential aspects required in drug manufacturing quality control along with many other essential facts. 

    Therefore, binge on till the very end of this article! 

    Why is Quality Control in Drug Manufacturing Essential? 

    Here in this section, you’ll know all the possible reasons that are essential for proper quality control in drug manufacturing. So, ensure not to skip any of the following points. 

    • Any drug manufacturing quality control department will ensure that the drug process is conducted by meeting the overall quality standards.
    • The quality control process aids pharma companies and manufacturers to produce the best and high-quality medicines that ensure users don’t suffer from certain side effects.
    • A good quality control process helps pharma companies to stay away from certain legal actions and issues along with penalties and financial loss.
    • Quality control is also a prime sign that the medicines are pure, trustworthy, effective, and reliable
    • Without the right quality control, pharmaceutical companies can’t get their potential customers to buy or use the company’s medicine. 

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    In a nutshell, quality control isn’t only essential for customers, but it also is a get-way-through for pharmaceutical companies to be recognized as a trustworthy brands. Without essential quality control, pharma companies can’t establish or grow in the pharma industry.  

    Key Components Drug Manufacturing Companies Need to Keep in Mind

    There are a few key factors that all pharma companies need to keep in mind while manufacturing their medicines to be passed on to customers. Here are some of the essential factors that these companies need to consider!

    Quality Planning 

    Quality planning is mainly the process of figuring out what the requirements and quality standards are for a product and what resources are actually needed to perfectly meet those requirements (and standards. 

    Therefore, the initial step to make a good quality control system is to plan for it. During this process, pharma companies figure out what their actual baseline quality goals are. Once the goals are set, companies then need to figure out how they’ll execute to reach these goals. 

    During this segment of the quality control process, it’s essential to keep in mind the following:

    • How often these processes will be looked at to check if they can be made better
    • If there are any laws that must be followed to reach the amount of quality that is wanted,
    • If the partners or shareholders have any objectives or goals that have to do with the quality

    Quality Assurance

    Quality Assurance is quite a vast term that includes mostly everything that could possibly affect the drug quality. The primary goal of quality assurance is to ensure that prescribed medicines have the needed effect on the users in any way possible. It also makes sure that patients don’t get defective medications in any way. 

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    So, Pharmaceutical Quality Systems (PQS) are made up of 8 pillars that make it easy for pharma companies to manage quality management methods. 

    Below are the 8 PQS pillars:

    •  Audit
    • Quality risk management
    • Good manufacturing and distribution practice
    • Quality management system design and consultancy
    • Training
    • Standard development for operational process
    • Inspection preparation and support
    • Responsible and qualified person provision 

    Quality Management

    Quality management is an important part of any business that wants to be successful because it makes sure that goods and services are made and distributed in a consistent and effective way.

    Moreover, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) is an essential part of quality management that ensures everything is controlled according to the quality standards by the marketing authority. It also makes sure that the medicine manufactured is safe, of high quality, and works well. 

    Quality Control

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    At the quality control stage, all pharma companies need to inspect their plans to check if they can be actually put into action. They have to ensure that all the rules are being thoroughly followed and figure out any issues that require fixing. And due to this, it is needed to pay close attention to every segment of the product and process. 

    Moreover, the collected information should be shown in a way that makes it easy to look at. Teams can easily make and share histograms and cause-and-effect graphs with the help of document management software.

    In a nutshell, controlling quality means that standards and processes are being followed. This could include testing for conformance and sending information back to the first system and testing stages. 

    Quality Improvement

    Once the quality management process is done, it’s important to look at the data and make a plan for improvement. Continuously going through the quality control management process, and re-evaluating both the procedure and the product while keeping compliance in mind will lead to a better end product, happier customers, and more money.

    Bottom Line

    So, after going through this blog, you should now have a clear understanding of the importance of overall quality control in drug manufacturing. When a pharma company manufactures medicines, there are certain things that need to be looked for rather than just focusing on making medicines. In order to grow the company and make it more sustainable in the pharmaceutical industry, aiming in good quality control is a must.

    Shruti Sood

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  • A Birth Control Pill Could Be Available Over the Counter for the First Time

    A Birth Control Pill Could Be Available Over the Counter for the First Time

    Did you know that in over 100 countries around the world, you can walk into a pharmacy and buy birth control pills without a prescription?

    The United States is not one of those countries.

    In fact, the United States and Western Europe are woefully behind the times on this front: In most other regions of the world, at least some contraceptive pills are broadly accessible over the counter (OTC). But we might finally be catching up: On May 9 and 10, a Food and Drug Administration committee will hold hearings that could result in a birth control pill called Opill becoming available over the counter. If approved, Opill will be the first OTC contraceptive pill in the United States.

    May 9 also happens to be Free the Pill Day, the anniversary of the FDA’s first approval of a birth control pill in 1960. Sixty-three years later, the agency has an opportunity to make history again. Making birth control available without a prescription would be groundbreaking no matter what, but the decision is especially consequential at this moment given the conservative push to turn the clock back to the 1950s—or even the 1870s.

    Here’s the background you need to understand what’s going on.

    What’s happening with Opill

    Opill is already an FDA-approved drug. In fact, its active ingredient has been approved since 1973. Just like any other birth control pill, you can get it by prescription from a health-care provider. However, in order for an approved drug to become available OTC, it has to go through another review process.

    In that process, the drugmaker has to prove a few things:

    • That people can understand how to use the drug;
    • Determine whether or not the medication is appropriate for them without consulting a medical provider;
    • Take it as directed;
    • And do all of that based on the information provided on the label.

    Once a pharmaceutical company has submitted the necessary research proving these points, the FDA conducts an internal review. Sometimes they seek input from an advisory committee, which makes a recommendation after hearing testimony from experts and members of the public. That’s what next week’s hearings are for.

    The hearings were originally scheduled for late 2022, but were abruptly postponed. The FDA typically aims to finish reviewing these types of applications within ten months of when they’re submitted, and we’re nearing that ten-month mark now.

    Why hasn’t this happened before?

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a whopping 82 percent of sexually active women in the United States have used the birth control pill at some point. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Academy of Family Physicians, and American Medical Association all support OTC hormonal contraceptives.

    So why has it taken us so long to get here?

    Well, contrary to the common idea that birth control is a Big Pharma conspiracy motivated by profit, pharmaceutical companies aren’t particularly interested in birth control pills. That’s because, compared to a lot of other medications—especially newly developed drugs still under patent that retail for astronomical prices—birth control is cheap. Pharmaceutical companies don’t see a big potential for profit there even though so many people use them. For most pharma companies, the status quo—where millions of people get the pill by prescription—has been working just fine.

    There’s also the unavoidable fact that anything having to do with sex—especially young, unmarried people having sex—is something that conservatives will turn into a controversy.

    Back in 2011, for example, then-Secretary of Health and Human Services Kathleen Sebelius took the unusual step of reversing the FDA’s decision to bring one of the forms of emergency contraception, Plan B, over the counter for all ages. (Though Plan B works similarly to birth control pills, it’s taken one time after sexual activity to prevent pregnancy rather than on a regular basis.) President Barack Obama supported the decision publicly, expressing concern about teens using Plan B in a way that many people saw as paternalistic. Plan B didn’t become available OTC for all ages until 2013, and even then it was only because of a judge’s order.

    Opill is a progestin-only pill. Here’s what that means.

    Most people who have taken hormonal contraceptives have taken a combined oral contraceptive pill, or COC. This type of pill contains synthetic versions of two hormones, estrogen and progesterone (which, in its synthetic form, is called progestin). But there’s another type: the progestin-only pill, or POP. You might have heard this called the “mini-pill.”

    While fewer people are familiar with POPs, they have a lot of benefits. For one, while all birth control pills are very safe overall, estrogen-containing pills can increase the risk of blood clots and stroke in some people, especially those already predisposed to such conditions. This risk is much lower than it used to be, because modern birth control pills contain far lower hormone doses than older versions. However, because POPs contain no estrogen, they don’t carry this risk at all. That means they’re appropriate for a broader group of people, making them a great OTC test case.

    If you are familiar with POPs, you might have heard that they must be taken at exactly the same time each day—down to just a three-hour window—in order to work properly. But there are different forms of progestin that work to prevent pregnancy in slightly different ways, and newer research finds that not all of them require quite such a strict schedule. Great news: Norgestrel, the progestin that’s in Opill, is one of these. In other words, like any birth control pill, users should strive to take the pill at the same time each day. But with Opill, you’ve got a little more wiggle room than three hours.

    The conventional wisdom used to be that POPs were slightly less effective than COCs, but updated research is challenging that, too. With perfect use—meaning you take the pill at exactly the same time every day—POPs are 99 percent effective. With typical use, they’re 93 percent effective, same as COCs.

    Benefits of over-the-counter access

    It’s not easy for everyone to get the pill by prescription: In 2015, a study found that more than one-third of adults who had ever gotten a prescription or refill for a birth control pill faced some sort of barrier. In a more recent study looking at the experiences of Black, Indigenous, and people of color, nearly half of participants reported facing a roadblock of some kind.

    Another group that stands to benefit from OTC birth control? Teens, who might want to keep their birth control use private or who may have trouble getting to the doctor because they’re reliant on others to get them there, to name a few potential challenges.

    While bringing the pill over the counter will eliminate the need to go to the doctor to get a prescription, it may or may not address another major limiting factor: cost. That’s why advocates are calling on the federal government to require insurers to cover OTC contraceptives without a prescription, and on pharmacies and pharmaceutical companies to keep costs low in general.

    What happens next

    After the hearings on May 9 and 10, the FDA will issue a decision whenever it wants. I’ll be live tweeting the FDA hearings, so be sure to follow Rewire News Group on Twitter to stay up to date.

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  • Your Spouse Just Walked Out… Here’s What To Do Next – Marriage Helper

    Your Spouse Just Walked Out… Here’s What To Do Next – Marriage Helper

    Your spouse has just walked out. While it seems like the world around you is falling apart and nothing is going your way, there is hope. Through countless stories of reconciliation that we’ve seen over the years, we are here to walk through this with you. In this episode, Dr. Joe and Kimberly will walk you through the simple steps, things to do and not to do, after your spouse has decided to leave.

    Losing a spouse or significant other is a tough experience, and it is natural to feel panic when they leave. However, in such a situation, it is essential not to panic and do things that will only propel the other person to leave faster. In this blog, we will discuss what you can do if your spouse just walked out the door.

    The first thing you need to do is regain control of your emotions. This may seem ridiculous, but it is crucial to help you think more clearly. Try to find some inner peace, stop trying to convince the other person to stay, and do not yell or scream. Instead, focus on yourself and what you need to do to save the relationship.

    Physical activities such as walking, running, or doing yoga can help reduce anxiety and tension. They can also clear your amygdala, the system in your brain that initiates the fear or flight response. Remember, physical activity does not take away all the anxiety or fear, but it can help you begin to think more clearly.

    It is also essential to be careful with anything that you might misuse, such as drinking. Drinking may seem like an easy way to calm down, but it can make the situation worse.

    The key takeaway is not to panic and focus on yourself rather than trying to convince your partner to stay. If you need help, reach out to professionals like us at Marriage Helper, who have been working with marriages for over 30 years. They can provide guidance and support during this challenging time.

    If you’ve read or listened to this and are thinking I want to save my marriage with a team that has an over 70% success rate, sign up to talk with our team about attending a 3-day Couples Turn-Around Workshop. Click here to learn more. 

     

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  • Bridging the Gap: How Technology Can Help Address Educational Inequities – Morning Lazziness

    Bridging the Gap: How Technology Can Help Address Educational Inequities – Morning Lazziness

    Today, no one is surprised by using technology in learning at all levels (even in kindergartens). It offers a great variety of benefits and conveniences that were impossible some 15-20 years ago. It helps learners to be more effective and faster. Educators can make their lessons more interactive, precise, and captivating.

    Of course, someone may not like the use of technology. It’s the right for everyone to express his or her opinion openly. We are, however, convinced that different types of technology in the classroom are really beneficial for the educational process. This blog post explains why. So, read on if you have any doubts about the implementation of technology in the educational sector.

    Access to Any Data You Need

    Every user can find whatever data he or she needs in a blink of an eye. This is one of the most important ways to use technology in the classroom and at home. You will spend only a few seconds enjoying the data you require.

    How does it work, and how to find the data so fast? Let’s say you cannot cope with a research paper. You only need to specify a request similar to this one – how to build a research paper? Open the browser and type this search combination. Your search engine will provide the most relevant results instantly.

    You may rely on them. The smart artificial intelligence compiles and analyzes requests made by all users. It defines what sources of information are related and can possibly solve the problems users are trying to solve. The first 2 pages of the search commonly reflect the most relevant materials that can help you.

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    You can even find professional essay writers if you know the right keyword combination. We don’t promote too frequent use of professional aid. Yet, we should confess that sometimes it’s the only way out for youngsters. Try it when you realize that nothing else can save you.

    Boosted Collaboration

    Does technology help students learn? We can bet it does, and it also improves teamwork and collaboration skills. These skills can be boosted at home or right in the class. Learners only need to decide what instant messenger to utilize to exchange messages and thus decide how to complete their common projects. Of course, they need to use some tools, such as Google Docs to complete their tasks there. Quick communication and ideas of all participants sufficiently improve the quality, speed, and effectiveness of the working process.

    Development of Various Abilities

    How to Preserve Health And Vitality in Educational Settings

    There are many types of technology in the classroom and at home that can boost any academic ability in learners. All they need to do is to find and utilize the right learning apps. Let’s review the most helpful ones here below:

    • Grammar checkers. Most students have serious problems with grammar. By using Grammarly or another reliable checker, they can define their typical and non-typical mistakes to avoid them in the future. The app underlines mistakes and offers corrections. Click on them to let the app correct instead of you. Thus, you learn from AI and save a lot of time.
    • Editors. These tools focus on the readability and clarity of your texts. They also outline your errors and offer tips that help to fix them. It’s another great method to learn helpful data to improve your texts.
    • Citation generators. These smart apps help to insert citations according to any academic writing style without mistakes.
    • Topic generators. If you use a topic generator, you can get from 10 to 30 relevant ideas per topic. Just specify 2-3 words and check the possible topics related to them.

    Enhanced Creative Thinking

    Affiliate Marketing For College Students

    The combination of technology and learning give a “pump” of creative abilities as well. Technology offers new, pretty uncommon ways to solve the same task in a variety of ways. While traditional methods are sometimes too boring, tech options provide more space for creativity. Some students discover that they are really creative only when they use special tech tools.

    Improved Performance

    Thanks to the presence of technology in learning, students can enjoy academic success. We have already mentioned a few vital benefits learners reap from technology. When they are combined and used correctly, the results are much better. Accordingly, their academic performance and ratings get improve.

    Engagement in Learning

    Student

    Another good reason why students need technology in the classroom is increased engagement in the learning process. A lot of research and studies prove this theory. Students willingly attend the lessons that utilize various tech apps and software rather than the ones without them. So, teachers and professors can provoke interest in their lessons via technology.

    Real-Life Experiences

    students

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    Educators apply technology to enhance student learning in situations when they cannot pass real-life situations. It’s possible thanks to virtual reality or simply VR. This unique technology helps to appear on the contrary continent or delve back in time to see what the world used to be in various periods of human history. Without being there, students can find out how it is in reality.

    Summing Up

    The use of technology in learning is one of the main keys to success. It ensures a lot of significant benefits, and we have highlighted the main of them. If you aren’t convinced, reread our blog post because these benefits can really make the required difference to let youngsters study effectively and conveniently.

    Shruti Sood

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  • A Gift for Mom: A 2023 Guide to the Best Mother’s Day Gifts – Morning Lazziness

    A Gift for Mom: A 2023 Guide to the Best Mother’s Day Gifts – Morning Lazziness

    Morning Lazziness may receive a share from purchases made via links on this page, at no cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely love. Prices and availability subject to change.

    Mother’s Day is a special occasion to show our love and appreciation for the most important woman in our lives – our mothers.

    As Mother’s Day 2023 approaches, it’s time to start thinking about the perfect gift to make her feel special and loved. Finding the right gift for Mom can be a daunting task, but we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive guide to the best Mother’s Day gifts.

    Personalized jewelry

    Jewelry is always a great gift for Mom, but taking it to the next level by personalizing it will make it even more special. You can choose from a wide range of options, such as a necklace with her initials or birthstone, a bracelet with her name, or a ring with a special message engraved inside. Some of the best jewelers in San Diego can certainly help you find the perfect gift for your mother on this special day.

    Spa gift basket

    Spa gift basket

    If your Mom deserves a day of pampering and relaxation, a spa gift basket is the perfect choice. You can customize your gift basket to include bath bombs, shower gels, body lotions, face masks, and more. Add a scented candle and a soft towel, and you have the perfect spa experience at home. Other popular beauty items include makeup sets, perfumes, and hair styling tools. There are endless combinations to pamper your mother for all the love she has given you throughout your life.

    Kitchen gadgets

    Kitchen gadgets

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    If your Mom loves to cook, she’ll appreciate a new kitchen gadget to make her life easier. A food processor, stand mixer,  blender, or a set of high-quality knives all can help improve the quality of kitchen ware at your mother’s disposal. She’ll appreciate the thought you put into finding a gift that will make her cooking experience more enjoyable. 

    Smartwatch

    Smartwatch

    If your Mom is tech-savvy, a smartwatch is a great gift choice. Not only can she use it to stay connected with family and friends, but she can also use it to track her fitness goals, monitor her heart rate, and more. Choose a stylish and functional model, and she’ll be sure to love it. You can also go a little more traditional with a classy wrist watch for mom.

    Personalized photo album

    Personalized photo album

    A personalized photo album is a great way to showcase all of your Mom’s favorite memories. You have an array of choices such as a scrapbook-style album or a digital album with your favorite photos. Add some thoughtful captions or quotes, and she’ll love looking through it for years to come.

    Floral arrangement

    Floral arrangement

    You can never go wrong with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Choose her favorite flowers or colors, and have them delivered to her doorstep. You can also add a heartfelt message to the card to let her know how much she means to you.

    Handmade gifts

    Handmade gifts

    If you’re looking for a gift that’s truly unique and special, consider making something by hand. You can choose from a wide range of options, such as a knitted scarf, a homemade candle, or a piece of artwork. Your Mom will appreciate the time and effort you put into creating something just for her.

    Parting shot

    Happy Mothers Day

    Mother’s Day gifts are a wonderful way to show your Mom how much you love and appreciate her. With these gift ideas, whether it be trendy jewelry or a floral arrangement, you’re sure to find the perfect present to make her feel special and loved. Whether it’s a piece of personalized jewelry, a spa gift basket, a kitchen gadget, or a handmade gift, the most important thing is to let her know how much she means to you.

    Shruti Sood

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  • 5 Things Women Do When They Actually Love You

    5 Things Women Do When They Actually Love You

    5 Things Women Do When They Actually Love You

    Tripp Advice

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  • How to Find a Sister Wife – Morning Lazziness

    How to Find a Sister Wife – Morning Lazziness

    You are the kind of person who deserves to find love. You work hard all year round, and when you come home, you deserve to be embraced by the tender hands of your loved ones. But like many Americans, monogamous relationships are probably not for you, and you wish you could unite your destinies or time with more than one partner that shares some of the ideas or experiences you feel. Are you looking for a sister wife to join the other partners in your life?

    Then you may encounter difficulties. Polygamy is taboo for much of the Western world, so finding same-minded individuals to unite their life with yours can be difficult. A solution is required, and this could arrive via a polygamy dating app.

    What is polygamy?

    It is the practice whereby a man or woman can simultaneously have more than one partner. The difference between polygamy and polyamorous relationships is that in the case of the former, the relationship between three or more people must be settled ceremonially through a marriage. In contrast, the concept of polyamorous relationships can be broader and encompasses different types of relationships between three or more people, the boundaries of which may differ from individual to individual.

    A polygamy app could help you find partners interested in this lifestyle, act as a tool to connect you with your next sister wife, or co-husband, and be a safe environment to relax and practice the kind of living that is defining for you. But what are some misconceptions of polyamorous relationships, and what should you know about them? We will discuss all these questions and more in the following pages.

    Is Polygamy Illegal? 

    Polygamy is indeed rare in the Western world, and this is due to Christian religious influence, which has imposed monogamous relationships as the ones accepted and encouraged by the church. There are exceptions, notably from certain denominations interpreting the writings of the Old Testament, but as a general rule, polygamy is illegal in most countries. But this does not apply to Muslims. Of the 58 countries where polygamy is recognized as legal, most are nations with the central religious belief in Islam. In most Muslim cultures, polygamy is a cultural practice performed for centuries, with family structure and even economic reasons behind it.

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    The Quran allows polygamy in certain circumstances, and when we refer to polygamy in the Muslim world, we are referring strictly to polygyny, i.e., the practice whereby a man can marry more than one woman. The maximum number of wives a Muslim man can have is four, and his personal and material attention must be equally distributed between them. The practice of polygamy, in the Muslim world as in other cultures, has also arisen to prevent orphans. In a multi-parent family, in the event of death, the children of this family can continue to be raised in a supportive environment that will provide them with all the conditions necessary for proper development.

    Can Polygamous Marriages Be Stable? 

    Relationship

    A polygamous relationship is not inherently more or less stable than a monogamous one. As with traditional marriage, the key to a peaceful union must be peace and understanding between partners. Are you a man looking for a sister wife? Or a woman who wants to unite her destinies with several co-husbands? Then the key is to find the right person for your personality and aspirations. And here, a polygamy dating app can help you enormously. Polygamous couples indeed face unique challenges that regular couples don’t usually encounter. However, a polygamous relationship can be successful when there are healthy boundaries and a basic structure of concepts that lead to love and stability.

    What is important is that before you venture into a relationship with more than one partner, you have an open discussion with the individuals involved regarding your expectations and desires. Polyamorous relationships require excellent communication skills, and finding people on the same page as you is vital. Whether you want to seek co-husbands or a new sister wife, it is crucial to join your destinies with partners who are not jealous, who do not feel constrained in such a relationship, and who are aware of the particularities that exist in such a lifestyle.

    What Are Some Lesser-Known Advantages of a Polygamy App?

    vanilla relationship

    A polygamy dating app could be a tool to meet people with whom you can spend the rest of your life. But at the same time, it can also act as a resource for individuals who want to try this lifestyle or learn more about the behind-the-scenes of polyamorous relationships. A high-quality polygamy dating app should provide internet users with the resources they need to respond successfully to the potential concerns of people just discovering polyamorous relationships. A polygamy dating app could be an initiation into the world of polyamorous relationships, one that takes place in a safe and carefully monitored environment so that abuse is virtually impossible.

    And this extra security is the main reason you should use the professional services of a dating site that offers matchmaking services for people searching for polygamous relationships. The ability to verify the user’s identity, anonymity, and potential background checks are crucial to making the environment you interact with safe and potential scams rare. However, just as with a monogamous relationship, it’s good to watch out for potential red flags that might indicate the people you’re talking to aren’t what they seem. Turning to a professional website is a good idea if you want to benefit from the resources needed to find partners in a safe environment. However, at the end of the day, your intuition is the most crucial element to remember.

    We Are All Different but Equal

    Every person on this planet is ultimately looking to be happy. For some of us, happiness means a special promotion at work; for many people, it’s a moment of peace in an exotic location; and for others, it’s the banality of everyday life with a loved one. But you are different, and in the 21st century, conventions no longer apply to all of us, which is perfectly acceptable. Are you the kind of person who wants to be in a polyamorous relationship with multiple partners? Then nowadays, you have plenty of opportunities to find the ideal people for you. And a polygamy dating app could be a crucial tool in achieving your happiness.

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    Whether you want to find partners for a casual relationship or are interested in finding a sister wife for a polygamous marriage, the professional offerings of a dating app can be crucial to finding the right match for you. Perhaps you are religious and want to venture into a polygamous marriage because you consider it to be in line with early Christian doctrines. Or maybe you are simply a young person who wants to try a multi-partner relationship and discover yourself in the process. Either way, the services of a polygamy app can help you and act as the building block for the rest of your life.

    Shruti Sood

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  • You Don’t Have to Be a Doula to Offer Abortion Support

    You Don’t Have to Be a Doula to Offer Abortion Support

    In her new book You or Someone You Love, writer, clinic worker, and abortion doula Hannah Matthews offers a picture of what abortion care looks like, and what it could look like if we dared to dream and invest in radical, compassionate community care. The book interweaves personal stories—including Matthews’ own abortion story—with the kind of frank information about abortion that many people have never heard. It also asks the reader to think about ways they can personally support people who have abortions, however small.

    Matthews donated half of her book advance to abortion funds and says any royalties she earns will be donated in the same way. Rewire News Group sat down with Matthews to learn more. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

    Rewire News Group: The Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization dismantling the constitutional right to abortion came down in the middle of your work on this book. Did that change how it took shape?

    Hannah Matthews: When I wrote the proposal, it was a totally different book. It was much more straight reporting. Much less personal, much less like memoir. And I felt, and I still feel, very self-conscious about taking up any space with my own story and my own interiority. I really had planned to be an observer looking in from the outside and giving other people a platform to tell their stories. It was fall of 2021 that I sold the proposal. I had just had my baby a few months prior. I do feel self-conscious also about how emotionally raw the book is. It’s something I really didn’t anticipate, but it’s kind of all I could do at this moment in my life. I always say it’s not the best book I could have written, but it’s the only book I could have written, and it’s the best book I could have written in these little eight-minute increments at this very strange time in my life.

    When Dobbs happened, suddenly my book felt much less important. But at the same time I felt like, well, if I’m going to do this, let’s do it. Let’s just make it a memoir and I’ll write about my abortion. So it kind of intensified the process and took pressure off the process at the same time. I’ve actually been really grateful to work in direct care pretty much this whole time because I do feel like it takes a little bit of the pressure off. It keeps my priorities in check and it keeps my perspective in check. Who cares if someone made fun of me on Twitter? Who cares if someone doesn’t like my book? It doesn’t matter as long as today these 24 patients get what they need. It really helps me keep a healthier perspective about any creative work I’m putting out into the world.

    RNG: The book also really shows all of the ways that abortion was complicated and very difficult to obtain for a lot of people even with Roe v. Wade in place, which is clearly something that a lot of people in the general public were not aware of.

    HM: Or they just have such a flattened understanding. Most people have no time or capacity to actually learn the nuances of how abortion functions and what it looks like until they need an abortion, or someone they love needs an abortion, and then suddenly they’re like, “Whoa, this is so much more complicated than I understood.”

    RNG: Absolutely. I think stigma plays a role in that, but I also think it is surprising and confusing the extent to which abortion has been siloed from the rest of the medical system. And so when somebody encounters that for the first time, it is really shocking.

    HM: And there are so many parallels with birth and pregnancy, miscarriage, and pregnancy loss, where it just constantly feels like, whoa, why didn’t I know about this? It’s like this constant like unfolding of this like scroll that you never had access to and you’re reading it and you’re like, what the fuck?

    RNG: Right. The book also starts with your abortion story, which is kind of a complex story. I guess this is a spoiler, but you had a medication abortion that didn’t work. Which is rare, but it does happen.

    Were you worried about how people would perceive that story? So much of the time when we’re talking about abortion, we fall into sort of a trap where we’re emphasizing the safety and the efficacy, because antis are always saying that abortion is dangerous. And it is safe, it is effective, but I think that focus often doesn’t leave room for the people, even though there are fewer of them, who have those more complicated experiences.

    HM: It’s such a double-edged sword. At work we have this conversation all the time about abortion care, but also about things like IUD insertions. How do you tell the truth about what this experience can look like without perpetuating fear and stigma and making people feel like this is something that’s dangerous and deeply unpleasant? The impetus for writing this book is to really help kind of add some more colors to this palette for people and really help them understand that when someone uses the word “abortion,” they could be talking about 45,000 different things.

    I remember saying to my husband, how could this happen? And I remember him looking at the paperwork and saying, well, you know, it says this works 98 percent of the time. That means that for two out of every 100 people it doesn’t work. That’s kind of a lot of people if you’re talking about thousands of medication abortions. And I was like, oh shit. And a failed medication abortion or an incomplete abortion is something that is dangerous if you don’t have access to care. Having a safe place you can go to if you’re not sure is so essential, and that’s part of what they’re trying to take away from us. To make abortion more dangerous.

    Especially now that we may be rolling out [misoprostol]-only protocols and efficacy rates and statistics maybe changing, I do fear that we are going to see a lot more failed medication abortions and I really want people to understand what that might mean for them and what care they can seek if that does happen. I think before I got pregnant I used to think it’s either beautiful and fine and you’re healthy and safe and feel great or there’s a medical crisis, and those are the only two options. But actually there’s this whole spectrum of weird, mysterious, unpredictable ebbs and flows. And so why shouldn’t abortion be different?

    RNG: Right, it’s a spectrum. I think it’s so easy to want to leave out that nuance for the sake of trying to be clear, but that actually leads to confusion and mistrust when people feel like they were lied to.

    HM: Totally. We have no space for the fact that bodies respond to things differently.

    RNG: That’s something else I appreciated about the book. The chapters have titles like, “Abortion Is Pain,” but also “Abortion Is Community,” “Abortion Is Hope.” I feel like it really captures the full spectrum.

    HM: I think part of what’s so isolating for so many people who have abortions, especially if they come from a very pro-abortion, progressive context, is that pressure to just speak about abortion as if it’s 100 percent positive all the time, and easy. And if they’ve had abortion experiences that aren’t positive and easy, they feel so alone. There is that feeling of like no, don’t give them anything. Don’t concede an inch of our beautiful fortress. And I think abortion is a social good. I think it’s wonderful. I work in abortion care, obviously I’m pro-abortion. But I think people should be listened to and that we need to hold space for every person who has an abortion. I trust them, and I believe them, and I listen to them.

    RNG: Parts of the book definitely read as a call to action. As you were writing, who you were thinking about as being your readers?

    HM: Writing the book was constantly having to come to terms with the fact that the people who I probably most desperately wish would read this are not going to. But I wrote this book thinking about my community, and my friends who are not working in the movement and who are kind of peripheral to it, but who truly feel despair and rage. The people who want to do something but are broke, and have kids, and have jobs, and have no time, and have no money. I want them to know that you don’t need to become a certified abortion doula. You can truly just give someone a ride to the airport. You can truly just make someone chicken soup after their abortion, or baby-sit their kids, and you’re doing it.

    RNG: In the introduction you write about wanting everyone to envision not just the abortion care that we need, but the abortion care that we dream of.

    HM: Yeah. And in order to get to care that we dream of, care that’s really loving and affirming and respectful, we have to get to a baseline of care that we can access, and care that we can ask for. And you can’t ask for something if you can’t say the word. We have to start there. And that’s where I think care providers owe so much to We Testify and other organizations and activists who are out here doing their work so that we can do our work in a way that’s not under the cover of darkness. We’ve made each other so uncomfortable naming things—body parts, medical procedures, sex. We work so hard not to name the things that we’re doing. Part of why I write is to just name things and hope that it helps other people feel okay naming things.

    It’s actually important to me that the book’s not perfect, and that people will find things they don’t like about it, and people will find language that doesn’t resonate with them, because that is such an important part of being in abortion care work. It’s not ever going to be a room full of people who share your exact values and speak the same language. And we have to be okay making mistakes and learning. That’s also something I think that’s paralyzing a lot of people outside the movement. They’re worried they’re not educated enough. They’re worried they’re going to fuck up. But we’re all going to fuck up, and we’re all going to feel uncomfortable, and that’s part of it. This is not the moment to be worried about performing perfect social justice. This is the moment to be doing things, and taking action, and seeking out people to learn from so that we can invest in them, and partner with them, and collaborate with them.

    RNG: Is there anything else you’d like people to know about the book?

    HM: Just that I wrote it for you. Whoever you are, I wrote it for you. I wrote it for everyone who had an abortion. Everyone is going to have an abortion. Everyone who thinks, “Well, I agree with abortion, but I would never have one,” because once that was me, too.

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  • Individual Coach or Couples Coach–Who to Hire and When? – Jayson & Ellen – 445 – The Relationship School®

    Individual Coach or Couples Coach–Who to Hire and When? – Jayson & Ellen – 445 – The Relationship School®

     

     

    Jayson and Ellen discuss when couples should seek individual help versus working together with a coach or therapist, and how to use a coach/therapist to address relationship issues.

     

    Timestamps:

    • 0:58 – Individual coaching/therapy vs. couples coaching/therapy
    • 9:53 – Best way to use an individual coach/therapist to help with relationship problems
    • 13:38 – When does individual work make sense?
    • 15:45 – Should a practitioner see couples and individuals?
    • 21:38 – Recommendations

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  • So You’re Thinking About Getting a Vasectomy 

    So You’re Thinking About Getting a Vasectomy 

    Considering this procedure? Then you’re in very good company. In fact, it’s becoming more and more commonplace, particularly here in the United States. While it can bring to mind words such as impossibly painful and very permanent, these are old school characterizations. Urologist Justin K. Houman of Cedar-Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles gets it. “Because we’re dealing with a sensitive part of the body, it’s understandable that people have some apprehensions about getting the procedure done,” he says. “But they are largely based on misconceptions.”

    Some popular reasons to have a vasectomy? Well, for one, it can improve your relationship. Many women appreciate not having to do all the reproductive heavy lifting and getting a vasectomy takes the worry of unwanted pregnancy off the table. And removing stress almost always means better sex. Want to grow your family after all? Many vasectomies are reversable (though there never any firm guarantees when it comes to conception).

    Jeremy Deutchman wrote a great piece on the hospital’s website called “5 Myths About Vasectomy” that debunk the old and highlight what is actually true today about the procedure. He and Dr. Houman remind us that:

    • Vasectomies do not decrease sexual satisfaction.
    • They don’t affect testosterone levels.
    • They do not cause erectile dysfunction.
    • The procedure doesn’t impact ejaculation.
    • Vasectomies do not cause cancer.

    It’s important to remember that “most patients experience only mild or moderate pain from the procedure—usually low-level discomfort controllable with over-the-counter pain relievers, according to Dr. Houman. And he says that while there are “some risks (pain, bleeding and infection)” he stresses that these are extremely rare.

    Recovery from the procedure is fairly quick – just a few days of rest and decreased activity.
    If you’re curious about learning more, please reach out for a 10-minute consult. Our experts at Maze will answer your questions and put your mind at ease so that you can make the best decisions about your health and well-being.

    ** By submitting your information, you agree to receive email from Maze periodically; you can opt out at any time. Maze does not share email addresses nor any other personal or medical data with third parties.

    Jennifer Dembo, LMSW

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  • How to Build a Better Connection with Older Family Members – Morning Lazziness

    How to Build a Better Connection with Older Family Members – Morning Lazziness

    Creating and fostering meaningful relationships with family members of all ages is an important part of life. Building a better connection with older family members can bring joy, comfort, and wisdom to our lives and develop a stronger sense of community. This article will explore the importance of forming meaningful connections with older family members and discuss practical tips for strengthening your relationship with them. Therefore, in addition to arranging hospice for the elderly, you must consider these relationships are valuable and how they contribute to personal growth. To learn how to do that, keep on reading!

    Developing an Understanding

    Understanding our older family members better can help us build stronger connections with them. Our perspectives and priorities shift as we age, leading to differences in communication styles and interests. It is important to recognize these changes and try to connect with our loved ones on their terms. One way to do this is by engaging in activities they enjoy or taking an interest in their hobbies. It can provide a common ground for conversation and bonding. Additionally, listening actively and showing empathy toward their experiences can demonstrate that we value their thoughts and feelings.

    Another important aspect is recognizing the challenges of aging, such as health issues or loss of independence and being patient, and being supportive and offering assistance shows that we care about their well-being. Building a strong connection with our older family members takes time and effort, but it can lead to meaningful relationships that benefit both parties.

    Finding Common Interests

    Connecting with older family members can be challenging, especially when there is a significant age gap. However, finding common interests can help build a better connection and bridge the generational divide. By taking the time to understand their hobbies and passions, you can create meaningful interactions that will strengthen your relationship. One of the first steps in finding common ground is to ask questions about their past experiences. Listening attentively and taking an interest in their lives shows them that you value their opinions and respect their experiences.

    Another way to connect is by exploring shared hobbies or activities. Perhaps your grandfather is interested in gardening, while you enjoy cooking meals from fresh produtcs. Working on a garden together could bring joy and provide opportunities for conversation and learning from one another.

    Reaching Out for Regular Check-Ins

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    As we age, it is natural to feel isolated from the rest of the world. Our mobility decreases, and our social circles start getting smaller. This is why reaching out and building better connections with our older family members is essential. Regular check-ins can help alleviate some of their loneliness and make them feel more connected to their loved ones. Regular check-ins do not have to be formal meetings- they could be casual conversations over the phone or video calls. Older family members often appreciate having someone who takes an interest in their lives and listens attentively to what they say. These conversations also allow younger generations to learn about their family history, traditions, and values.

    Offer Your Help & Support

    Offering your help and support is a key way to build better relationships with older family members. One of the most important things you can do to connect with an older family member is simply to spend time with them regularly. Whether having lunch together, walking in the park, or just chatting over the phone, consistent contact helps build trust and familiarity between both parties. Additionally, taking the initiative to assist shows that you care about their well-being and are committed to maintaining a positive relationship. 

    Shruti Sood

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  • Stress Transformed: How to Reframe Your Perspective on Stress and Leverage Its Positive Effects  – Morning Lazziness

    Stress Transformed: How to Reframe Your Perspective on Stress and Leverage Its Positive Effects  – Morning Lazziness

    Stress is an inevitable part of our lives, and it can have both negative and positive effects on our mental and physical health. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to reframe your perspective on stress and leverage its positive effects to improve your well-being.

    By understanding the various types of stress and their potential benefits, you can better manage your stress levels and even use them to your advantage.

    The Positive Side of Stress

    Stress as a Motivator

    While the negative effects of stress are often emphasized, stress can also serve as a powerful motivator. In moderate amounts, stress can improve focus and drive, pushing you to tackle challenges and achieve your goals. By viewing stress as an opportunity for growth and success, you can channel its energy into productive endeavors.

    Enhancing Resilience

    Experiencing and overcoming stress can make you more resilient in the long run. Each time you face a stressful situation and come out on the other side, you develop coping skills and adaptability that can help you navigate future challenges more effectively. Embrace the learning opportunities that stress provides to grow stronger and more resilient.

    Boosting Immunity

    Interestingly, short-term stress can actually have a positive effect on your immune system. In response to stress, your body releases hormones that can enhance immune function and increase your resistance to infection. While chronic stress can weaken your immune system, occasional stressors can help your body build defenses against illnesses.

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    Also Read: 4 Leadership Styles in Nursing and Their Pros and Cons

    How to Reframe Your Perspective on Stress?

    How to de-stress Your Workweek

    1. Acknowledge Your Stress

    The first step in reframing your perspective on stress is to recognize and accept it. Denying or ignoring your stress can lead to a buildup of tension and negative emotions. Instead, acknowledge your feelings and remind yourself that stress is a natural part of life that can be managed and transformed into positive outcomes.

    2. Identify the Source

    Determine the cause of your stress, whether it’s work-related, personal, or a combination of factors. By pinpointing the source, you can devise strategies to manage or mitigate the stressor. Keep in mind that understanding the types of stress can help you better identify the root cause and tailor your coping strategies accordingly.

    3. Adjust Your Mindset

    Reframe how you perceive stress by viewing it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. Rather than dwelling on the negative aspects of stress, focus on the potential benefits, such as increased motivation, resilience, and immunity. Adopting a positive mindset can help you better cope with stress and even harness its energy for your benefit.

    Also Read: 3 Essential Tips To Stay Fit and Healthy in This Busy Lifestyle

    4. Seek Support

    Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional for support in managing stress. Sharing your experiences and receiving guidance can help you develop effective coping strategies and maintain a healthier perspective on stress.

    Leveraging the Positive Effects of Stress

    Meditation Apps

    Set Realistic Goals

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    Set achievable goals and break them down into smaller, manageable steps. This approach can help you maintain motivation and focus while preventing excessive stress. Remember that it’s okay to adjust your goals as needed, and don’t be too hard on yourself if you encounter setbacks.

    Practice Self-Compassion

    Treat yourself with kindness and understanding when faced with stress. Remind yourself that everyone experiences stress and that it’s a normal part of life. By practicing self-compassion, you can create a healthier relationship with stress and better navigate challenging situations.

    Also Read: How to See Things From a Different Perspective? 5 Ways To Help you Out

    Develop Healthy Coping Strategies

    Cultivate healthy coping mechanisms to manage stress and harness its positive effects. These strategies may include exercise, meditation, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. By developing a toolkit of effective stress-management techniques, you can better cope with stress and leverage its positive aspects.

    Maintain a Balanced Lifestyle

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    Strive for balance in your work, personal life, and self-care. Prioritize getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active. By maintaining a balanced lifestyle, you can support your physical and mental well-being, reducing the negative impacts of stress and enhancing its positive effects.

    Embrace Stress as a Catalyst for Personal Growth and Well-Being

    Reframing your perspective on stress and leveraging its positive effects is a powerful way to improve your overall well-being. By recognizing stress as an opportunity for growth and improvement, you can transform its energy into motivation, resilience, and even enhanced immunity.

    Understand the types of stress, adopt a positive mindset, and develop healthy coping strategies to harness the benefits of stress and create a more fulfilling, balanced life.

    Shruti Sood

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  • 3 Secrets Why Other Women Over 50 Are Getting The Guy

    3 Secrets Why Other Women Over 50 Are Getting The Guy

    3 Secrets Why Other Women Are Getting The Guy While You’re Still Struggling In Over 50’s Dating

     

    You can read the blog below or watch it on YouTube by clicking here.

    Women tell me all the time how amazed they are by a girlfriend who is getting a zillion dates while they are struggling to get even one date with a good man.

    What do these women do that you might not be doing?

    I’m going to be sharing 3 of these secrets with you in today’s blog.

    Secret #1 . . . It all starts with recognizing a man who is a great catch. 

    Do you remember the plot of the Disney movie, Beauty and the Beast? (How many times did we watch that with our kids?)

    Belle falls in love with the Beast because of how kind he is and how well he treats her.

    She doesn’t know that beneath his ugly exterior is a man who was once very handsome.

    Even though she is repelled by his appearance, once she gets to know the Beast, she finds her heart opening to him.

    Oftentimes, women tell me that a MUST HAVE quality is the handsomeness of a man.

    Here’s a little secret for you . . . as you get to know a man, your attraction to him can grow big time!

    What counts for getting the long-term relationship is his personality and more importantly how he treats you.

    This is why you want to consider giving Average Joe a chance.

    He’ll probably be a far better boyfriend for you than Mr. Hottie will any day.

    Mr. Hottie will want you to feel lucky he chose you.

    On the other hand, Average Joe will feel honored you chose him and he’ll do everything he can to show you he’s worthy of being your guy.

    Secret #2 . . . Listen to a man the way he wants to be heard

    When you’re speaking with girlfriends, you talk about one subject then in the middle of that subject, you move to another subject, then you go back to the original subject then back out again to something else.

    In the midst of all this, you’re talking over each other, finishing each others sentences, asking questions, and starting new trails of conversation that all of your girlfriends can follow. Right?

    This is how women communicate!

    But it’s not the way men communicate.

    Most men can follow only ONE STREAM of thought at a time.

    When you interrupt a man with additional questions, he thinks you aren’t listening to him because you didn’t give him a chance to finish his thoughts before you asked him something else.

    Believe me, I know you’re listening.

    But you’re listening in a female way that men just don’t understand.

    I want to show you what you can do instead that really works with men. Ready?

    Ask a man ONE question at a time.

    Allow him to talk and get everything he needs to say about this one question until he slows down and stops talking.

    Often times he’ll even say, “I’m done,” or “That’s it.”

    Now, count 5-10 seconds before you ask him another question just to be sure he’s finished with the last one.

    I promise when you do this, you will touch his heart and he will feel like the luckiest man around.

    When he feels treasured, he’ll want to do everything in his power to make your life easier.

    Secret #3 . . . Make a man feel like your hero and watch your dating life change

    In this day and age with what you’ve gone through in life, you’ve probably become pretty self-sufficient.

    You had to. You didn’t have a choice or you wouldn’t have survived.

    But what it did was it took away a man’s power of feeling like he’s needed in your life.

    Men are wired to keep you safe, protected, and provided for to the best of their ability.

    When you can do it all, he thinks, what does she need me for?

    Try making a man your hero.

    It can be as simple as letting him open the door for you or asking him for a favor or his help.

    Watch a man’s body language when you allow him to be your hero.

    His chest puffs up and he struts because he is so proud he made you happy.

    Just be sure to thank and appreciate what he’s done.

    If you do, he will always want to be the man who loves making you happy.

    Now a little inspiration for you today . . .

    So VERY HAPPY – I Found My Guy!

    I am thrilled to say I found him, or we found each other and it is going great! I have to say, he is nothing like the guys I was in relationships with in the past. That Pattern Chart exercise was so helpful and pointed out some poor repeated behavior choices that I set out to change or avoid this time around. That along with learning how to rephrase things in MAN language and remembering I can be a flirty girl made a huge difference in dating. I learned so much and put it into practice and it worked! I couldn’t be happier! Thanks for all the support Lisa! Got to go now and get ready to go see my guy!!! So, very happy!!! Jeanne, Wa.

    Believing in you!

    Big hugs ~

    Lisa

    Love this article? Sign up by clicking here to receive my weekly blog.

    Copyright© 2023 Lisa Copeland. All rights reserved.

    Lisa

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  • 3 Secrets Why Other Women Over 50 Are Getting The Guy

    3 Secrets Why Other Women Over 50 Are Getting The Guy

    3 Secrets Why Other Women Are Getting The Guy While You’re Still Struggling In Over 50’s Dating

     

    You can read the blog below or watch it on YouTube by clicking here.

    Women tell me all the time how amazed they are by a girlfriend who is getting a zillion dates while they are struggling to get even one date with a good man.

    What do these women do that you might not be doing?

    I’m going to be sharing 3 of these secrets with you in today’s blog.

    Secret #1 . . . It all starts with recognizing a man who is a great catch. 

    Do you remember the plot of the Disney movie, Beauty and the Beast? (How many times did we watch that with our kids?)

    Belle falls in love with the Beast because of how kind he is and how well he treats her.

    She doesn’t know that beneath his ugly exterior is a man who was once very handsome.

    Even though she is repelled by his appearance, once she gets to know the Beast, she finds her heart opening to him.

    Oftentimes, women tell me that a MUST HAVE quality is the handsomeness of a man.

    Here’s a little secret for you . . . as you get to know a man, your attraction to him can grow big time!

    What counts for getting the long-term relationship is his personality and more importantly how he treats you.

    This is why you want to consider giving Average Joe a chance.

    He’ll probably be a far better boyfriend for you than Mr. Hottie will any day.

    Mr. Hottie will want you to feel lucky he chose you.

    On the other hand, Average Joe will feel honored you chose him and he’ll do everything he can to show you he’s worthy of being your guy.

    Secret #2 . . . Listen to a man the way he wants to be heard

    When you’re speaking with girlfriends, you talk about one subject then in the middle of that subject, you move to another subject, then you go back to the original subject then back out again to something else.

    In the midst of all this, you’re talking over each other, finishing each others sentences, asking questions, and starting new trails of conversation that all of your girlfriends can follow. Right?

    This is how women communicate!

    But it’s not the way men communicate.

    Most men can follow only ONE STREAM of thought at a time.

    When you interrupt a man with additional questions, he thinks you aren’t listening to him because you didn’t give him a chance to finish his thoughts before you asked him something else.

    Believe me, I know you’re listening.

    But you’re listening in a female way that men just don’t understand.

    I want to show you what you can do instead that really works with men. Ready?

    Ask a man ONE question at a time.

    Allow him to talk and get everything he needs to say about this one question until he slows down and stops talking.

    Often times he’ll even say, “I’m done,” or “That’s it.”

    Now, count 5-10 seconds before you ask him another question just to be sure he’s finished with the last one.

    I promise when you do this, you will touch his heart and he will feel like the luckiest man around.

    When he feels treasured, he’ll want to do everything in his power to make your life easier.

    Secret #3 . . . Make a man feel like your hero and watch your dating life change

    In this day and age with what you’ve gone through in life, you’ve probably become pretty self-sufficient.

    You had to. You didn’t have a choice or you wouldn’t have survived.

    But what it did was it took away a man’s power of feeling like he’s needed in your life.

    Men are wired to keep you safe, protected, and provided for to the best of their ability.

    When you can do it all, he thinks, what does she need me for?

    Try making a man your hero.

    It can be as simple as letting him open the door for you or asking him for a favor or his help.

    Watch a man’s body language when you allow him to be your hero.

    His chest puffs up and he struts because he is so proud he made you happy.

    Just be sure to thank and appreciate what he’s done.

    If you do, he will always want to be the man who loves making you happy.

    Now a little inspiration for you today . . .

    So VERY HAPPY – I Found My Guy!

    I am thrilled to say I found him, or we found each other and it is going great! I have to say, he is nothing like the guys I was in relationships with in the past. That Pattern Chart exercise was so helpful and pointed out some poor repeated behavior choices that I set out to change or avoid this time around. That along with learning how to rephrase things in MAN language and remembering I can be a flirty girl made a huge difference in dating. I learned so much and put it into practice and it worked! I couldn’t be happier! Thanks for all the support Lisa! Got to go now and get ready to go see my guy!!! So, very happy!!! Jeanne, Wa.

    Believing in you!

    Big hugs ~

    Lisa

    Love this article? Sign up by clicking here to receive my weekly blog.

    Copyright© 2023 Lisa Copeland. All rights reserved.

    Lisa

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  • 8 Ways You Are Belittling Your Husband and What God Says about It

    8 Ways You Are Belittling Your Husband and What God Says about It

    It is no leap to say Christians have been affected by the ripples of the re-definition of gender and their roles. Just because we maintain Genesis 1:27 that God created male and female, does not mean that we have fully guarded against some other ideologies this overarching campaign is pushing, specifically, how wives relate to their husbands.

    That Hideous Strength is C.S. Lewis’s third installment in his “Space Trilogy.” We meet Jane and Mark Studdock, a young, unhappily married couple. She is a housewife, lonely and desperate for some other meaning. She is desolate, partly because Mark’s chief concern is to gain as much social standing at his college as he can, reaching the “inner circle” of influence.

    Jane realizes she is just playing a social role in his life rather than serving as a teammate. They find themselves on opposite sides of the great battle in the end: Mark working for N.I.C.E. and Jane following Dr. Ransom, Merlin, and their motley crew, combatting one another for control over the physical world. In other words, their love has grown cold as they only weigh and make meaning of themselves independently from the other.

    The book has many social and spiritual commentaries on marriage (especially when you pit the Studdocks against the Dimbles, an older married couple who are faithful to one another by not taking this life too seriously), but I want to zoom in on one enlightening moment for Jane.

    In her time spent with the likes of Dr. Ransom, the Dimbles, the Director, and others, she overheard them talking about matters of religion. In hopes that she would soon find a solution to her problem with Mark and her loneliness, she leans into this conversation, for even she knows that religion is of a higher order because it has the ability to govern and rule man, bringing order to her feelings of captivity.

    “…’religion’ ought to mean a realm in which her haunting female fear of being treated as a thing, an object of barter and desire and possession, would be set permanently at rest and what she called her “true self” would soar upwards. [But they] never talked about religion… they talked about God… rather of strong, skillful hands thrust down to make, and mend, and perhaps destroy. Supposing one were a thing after all—a thing designed and invented by Someone Else and valued for qualities quite different from what one had decided to regard as one’s true self?”

    It makes sense to follow that line of thinking from Jane: breaking down something like a fear, paradigm, or even out from under a stereotype would leave her feeling a bit drab. Victorious, yes. But work like that is exhausting, especially for Jane, who is on a quest to “free herself.” She has, no doubt, looked to many avenues to bring relief to feeling owned and bartered. It’s not until this new company of hers inadvertently directs her attention upward that her interest is fully piqued.

    It is also logical to track the ideation that if you feel oppressed, you need to work as hard as possible to un-oppress yourself. Because if you feel anything featureless or unsavory, you are no longer within the bounds of your true self. You must rise from that.

    And this is where many wives can quickly find themselves, but maybe in a much more subtle way. I would venture to say that getting married and bearing children is a part of most people’s thought trajectory when planning their lives. I would continue that venture to include that not many “count the cost” of marriage and family. Where that can quickly leave a woman is to convince herself that her true self is gone, leaving a piddly shell of a servant in its place.

    I do not think that what follows is, “I have lost my true self; therefore, I must now abuse my marriage by depreciating my husband.” In fact, it’s not nearly as well-thought-out as that. The drifting that occurs when we are not in perpetual union with Christ (Hebrews 2) has ripple effects like wandering from our role as wife, helper, encourager, and teammate. Drifting is sneaky and brutally subtle. In the same way we search our hearts for idols so we do not transgress the first and second commandments, we must also survey our attitudes towards our callings in the home, starting with our covenant relationship.

    Submit in Everything

    Before I discuss ways that wives disparage their husbands (either accidentally or intentionally), you must remember two basic truths about God’s standard for marriage; furthermore, wives have to work hard to acclimate their tastes and desires toward just that.

    First, marriage is a covenant recognized by God.

    Mark 10:7–9 says, “‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two but one flesh. What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

    It is easy to forget the importance of words when we are living in a way that we say whatever is on our minds. When you said your vows in front of witnesses on your (I’m certain, beautiful) wedding day, I hope the covenant aspect spoken through words was more thought out than the gown, flowers, and honeymoon. On that day, your marriage became your most important earthly relationship.

    Second, Ephesians 5:22–24: “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife even as Christ is the head of the church, his body, and is himself its Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit in everything to their husbands.”

    I have zero interest in arguing over the definition of “submission” here—it comes down to the fact that we must align ourselves with Scripture. We can give God a 1-star review all we want, but the energy from our word-dodging will not affect God’s economy in any way.

    I would like to focus on the last part of verse 24, where Scripture says “in everything.” Wives, this means no part of your life should go untouched by your husband: clothes, thoughts, diet, child rearing, entertainment, friendships, vocation, intimacy. Everything means the whole enterprise, and God is very clear about that.

    How a Wife Can Belittle Her Husband:

    Not respecting your husband has so many manifestations. Bottom line, it is any choice or behavior that aims to put yourself before your husband. Here are just a few ideas (with very little commentary) of how this plays out in our day:

    1. Talking about him and your marriage to anyone he has not explicitly approved. 

    Ladies Night Out is dangerous for this very reason—husband bashing. Of course, women will understand you better than your own husband, but being understood is not what is set out before us. Holiness is.

    2. Asking for counsel about anything in your life from anyone else besides first taking it to him (that includes Facebook!). 

    We are to submit to our husbands in everything, which helps clarify the question, “Should I really bother him about _____?” You will be surprised at how beautifully simple a husband can decide from our often-muddy waters of overthinking.

    3. Seeking attention and worth from anything you are involved in (again—that includes social media!). 

    Your meaning is from your union in Christ and not your husband, either. However, it is easy to find yourself like Jane in wanting to find your “true selves”—confess this to your husband and ask for guidance.

    4. Neglecting to directly point out why you respect him or directing your kids to do so.

    A social media sentiment should not be your first avenue for honoring him.

    5. Not practicing hospitality with him first. 

    Wives, please don’t save the best dishes, fluffiest hand towels, sweetest energy, and best late-night conversation for your friends and neighbors.

    6. Focusing on something he thinks isn’t worth you or your time. 

    Give your husband the rundown of what consumes your thoughts: losing weight, going back to college, enrolling your kids in school, taking a dance class, baking bread, adopting a child, painting the house. Ask him what you should lay down and what you should pursue, and then walk joyfully in that. This also includes that “nagging wife” from Proverbs 21—if it’s not something your husband wants the family to work toward, then let it be.

    7. Stealing away leadership. 

    Sometimes a wife can have her mind made up about how something will go before she even consults her husband about it. It does not matter if she knows the children and their needs more instinctively than he does; the husband is the head of the family, and the wife belittles him when she assumes that role.

    8. General discontentment. 

    Managing a home (Titus 2) is hard work because it is never truly done. Beautiful, chubby little faces with sticky hands will certainly undo almost everything a wife has just done. Clothes will always need to be washed. People will always need to eat. Dogs who aren’t supposed to shed will undoubtedly always shed. White clothes lose their luster, something always needs to be fixed, and who really wants to spend time cleaning out the produce drawer? The hardest part about our work is maintaining a content and joyful attitude. It is one of the most respectful things we can do for our husbands.

    Bringing it All Home

    In Matthew 12:25, Jesus says, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand.” Since man and wife become one flesh in marriage, any time a wife demeans her husband, she is attempting to divide that one flesh. A marriage that is laid waste cannot reflect Christ and the Church.

    Because that’s what all this is about—going back to Ephesians 5, that Christ is the head of the church like the husband is the head of the wife. We submit to our husbands as to the Lord. This is an immense gift because we have a tangible, daily reminder of this posture that our good God requires of all Christians. After all, submission demands humility.

    God never tells us not to be great, but he gives us directions on how to get there: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:12). That is what Jane was truly after. Her “true self” would never manifest by exalting herself, for there was simply nowhere for her to rise. 

    Finally, the Director tidies it up for Jane regarding her marriage and ultimately for her Christian life: “They would say,” he answered, “that you do not fail in obedience through lack of love, but have lost love because you never attempted obedience.”

    Photo credit: ©Getty Images/Vadym Pastukh

    Kate Stevens is a worshiper, wife, and mom, and with the help of the Lord, that is her hierarchy of work. Beyond this, she works with the youth and children at her church and edits as a freelancer. She enjoys reading, writing, running, cooking, and practicing thinking pure and lovely things. 

    After being unsure if they ever wanted children, the Lord eventually blessed Kate and her husband Clint after nearly three years of waiting. They welcomed their first daughter in 2011, another daughter in 2013, and yet another daughter in 2016. Kate considers this her most time-consuming, emotion-full, sanctifying, not always pretty but trusting in the Lord’s plan, and blessed work. Stuck in a house with four females, her husband Clint consistently reminds Kate of her identity and union in Christ. 

    You can read more of Kate’s work here.

    Kate Stevens

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  • Why Is Everybody Talking About the Comstock Act?

    Why Is Everybody Talking About the Comstock Act?

    Conservatives are trying their hardest to resurrect the Comstock Act as a way to ban mailing abortion pills. This week, Imani is joined by special guest and colleague Garnet Henderson, Rewire News Group‘s senior multiplatform reporter and resident Comstock Act expert, to break down how we got here and where we’re going. You won’t be surprised to learn that there’s someone familiar behind the push to ban access to abortion pills by mail.

    Rewire News Group is a nonprofit media organization, which means that Boom! Lawyered is only made possible by the support of listeners like you! If you can, please join our team by donating here.

    And sign up for The Fallout, a weekly newsletter written by Jess that’s exclusively dedicated to covering every aspect of this unprecedented moment.

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