ReportWire

Tag: Relaxation

  • Tips For Guys To Get A Dating App Response

    Tips For Guys To Get A Dating App Response

    Anxiety is a struggle for many – and Gen Z especially. But this fun habit can make a difference.

    Dating can be tough, and not everyone is an expert. While Gen Z is drifting away from apps, most of the rest of the population is still strong. In fact, 349 million people worldwide using dating apps. The vast majority of matchmaking is done on mobile devices. Over 50% of individuals who met someone on a dating app said it led to a romantic, exclusive relationship.

    We interviewed the founders of Konvo Dating and discovered the  number one complaint from men is frustration over not getting responses to their messages to women. It’s hard to get noticed, especially when most men swipe indiscriminately at women they find attractive. This strategy partly explains why women are inundated with matches, and a man’s message is easily missed. Here are their tips for guys to get a dating app response. Here are tips for for guys to get a dating app response.

    RELATED: Great Fall Whiskeys

    Personalize Your First Message

    A generic “Hey” or “What’s up?” will likely go unnoticed in a sea of similar messages. Women on dating apps receive many such messages, and the key to catching her attention is personalizing your approach. Take the time to read through her profile and find something unique to mention. Maybe she’s passionate about a particular hobby or traveled somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit. Referencing something specific shows that you’ve paid attention and that your message isn’t just a copy-paste.

    Why It Works: Personalizing your message makes her feel seen and appreciated for more than just her appearance. It tells her you’re genuinely interested in who she is, not just looking for a casual match.

    Example: “I noticed you love hiking—have you been to [local trail]? I’ve been looking for new places to explore!”

    Photo by Westend61/Getty Images

    Keep It Light and Playful

    When starting a conversation, being lighthearted can help ease any initial awkwardness. Humor is an excellent tool for breaking the ice and creating a relaxed atmosphere. A playful comment or a light joke can set the tone for a fun conversation she wants to engage in. Just be mindful of your humor—keep it respectful and avoid anything that could be misinterpreted.

    Why It Works: Playful conversations stand out because they’re enjoyable and easygoing. Women are more likely to respond to someone who can make them smile, especially in the often-serious world of online dating.

    Example: “Your profile says you love dogs—does that mean you’ve mastered the art of the perfect dog selfie?”

    Compliment Her Interests, Not Just Her Looks

    Complimenting a woman’s appearance is fine, but leading with or only focusing on her looks might make it seem like you’re more interested in the surface-level aspects of who she is. To stand out, shift the focus to her hobbies, personality, or achievements. Compliment her based on her passion and show genuine curiosity about those interests.

    Why It Works: Complimenting her interests makes her feel valued beyond her appearance, highlighting your interest in a deeper connection. It also allows her to talk more about something she cares about, making it easier to continue the conversation.

    Example: “I’m impressed by your photography skills—how you captured [location] is incredible. How long have you been doing photography?”

    RELATED: 5 Morning Activities To Help You Feel Happier

    Instead of Talking About Your Ex, Talk About How You’ve Grown

    Bringing up past relationships, especially in a negative light, can be a big red flag in early conversations. It signals unresolved issues and can create an uncomfortable dynamic. Instead of focusing on what went wrong in the past, share how you’ve grown and learned from those experiences. If the topic arises, frame your response positively, highlighting personal growth and looking forward to new opportunities.

    Why It Works: Talking about personal growth rather than past drama shows emotional maturity and self-awareness, both attractive qualities. It shifts the focus away from the baggage and toward future possibilities.

    Example: “I’ve learned a lot from my past relationships, especially about communication and understanding. I look forward to finding a fresh start and building something meaningful.”

    Stay Positive and Optimistic

    A positive attitude is incredibly appealing. Women are more likely to respond to someone who seems upbeat and optimistic about dating. Avoid complaining about your previous experiences with dating apps or expressing negativity. Instead, show excitement and a lighthearted attitude toward meeting new people. Positive energy is contagious and makes the conversation feel more enjoyable for both of you.

    Why It Works: Positivity sets a welcoming tone and creates a comfortable space for conversation. Women are more inclined to engage with someone who radiates enthusiasm and doesn’t take things too seriously.

    Example: “I’m new to this app and excited to meet interesting people. How’s your experience been so far?”

    Navigating the world of dating apps can be tricky, but using these five tips from Konvo can set you apart and increase your chances of making a genuine connection. Personalizing your messages, staying playful, complimenting her interests, focusing on growth rather than baggage, and maintaining a positive attitude will improve your chances of a reply and set the stage for meaningful interaction.

    Patience and understanding is a essential, KONVOdating.com has more tips.

    Sarah Johns

    Source link

  • A Fun Habit Can Help Calm Anxiety

    A Fun Habit Can Help Calm Anxiety

    Anxiety is a struggle for many – and Gen Z especially. But this fun habit can make a difference.

    Everyone has anxiety at times, but having it longer term can cause more issues. Insomnia, depression, gastrointestinal issues and more can result. Gen Z is seeing higher stress levels than older generations. 18 to 34-year-olds say their average stress level is a 6 out of 10, compared with a 3.4 among people ages 65 and older.  APA’s 2023 Stress in America survey found. Last year, the younger generation shared their average stress was a 5.8. But a fun habit can help calm anxiety and can be done in most places.

    RELATED: Hanging Around Dogs For This Amount Of Time Is Enough For Pain Relief

    Listening to music can relax you and calm you down. Research confirms these personal experiences with music. Current findings indicate that music around 60 beats per minute can cause the brain to synchronize with the beat causing alpha brainwaves (frequencies from 8 – 14 hertz or cycles per second). This alpha brainwave is what is present when we are relaxed and conscious.

    Photo by Malte Wingen via Unsplash

    Another study, published in the journal Plos One and conducted by a group of Canadian researchers from Ryerson University, utilized music and Auditory Beat Stimulation (ABS), a sound combines tones and plays them in one ear or another, stimulating the brain. ABS is an interesting method, one which seeks to provide anxiety relief in the least invasive form possible, disregarding medications.

    The research examined 163 patients who were already taking anti-anxiety medication. They were instructed to listen to relaxing music, ABS sessions, both, or “pink noise,” a sound similar to white noise. Participants listened to these sessions for 24 minutes, with an artificial intelligence device selecting the music depending on the participant’s mood.

    RELATED: 5 Morning Activities To Help You Feel Happier

    Researchers found that participants with moderate levels of anxiety experienced the most benefits after listening to music and ABS. Participants who had high levels of anxiety reaped more benefits from listening to music only when compared to the group who listened to ABS.

    “The findings from this research are exciting as they indicate personalized music shows great promise in effectively reducing anxiety in specific segments of the population that suffer from anxiety,” wrote the researchers.

    Music has long been associated with anxiety-relieving properties, but there haven’t been many studies that look at it through a scientific lens. Nowadays, when there are so many options for remote and digital treatment, the exploration of auditory stress-relieving tools sounds like something worth investigating, that could provide relief to large amounts of people.

    Sarah Johns

    Source link

  • Unbelievable facts

    Unbelievable facts

    When you stretch, your body releases endorphins, which makes it feel good by reducing stress and…

    Source link

  • The Worldbuilding of Inside Out 2: New Emotions, Belief System, and a Sense of Self

    The Worldbuilding of Inside Out 2: New Emotions, Belief System, and a Sense of Self

    “Inside Out 2” introduces new emotions like Anxiety and Envy as Riley navigates the challenges of growing up and forming her sense of self. This heartfelt sequel naturally builds on the inner world of its predecessor, teaching important lessons in mental health for both children and adults.

    The original “Inside Out” (2015) was a monumental Pixar film that humorously depicted the chaotic inner world of emotions that we all have to navigate.

    In the first one, the young protagonist Riley had to learn that negative emotions like “Sadness” (a blue-colored character) aren’t something that have to be avoided at all costs, but are appropriate emotions to feel sometimes, and even a necessary function of a happy and healthy life. It was a powerful lesson in emotional intelligence that resonated with both children and adults alike.

    The sequel “Inside Out 2” (2024) continues to build off of these themes in a fun, organic, and intuitive way. Riley is now thirteen and about to enter high school. She starts to experience a new range of emotions (especially “Anxiety” and “Envy”), which start to influence her newly forming “belief system” and a “sense of self.”

    The creators of the Inside Out franchise have a team of psychologists that help them illustrate key concepts in an imaginative way, which makes this film both enjoyable and educational. This article will explore some of the new concepts in the film and how the mental world-building in the franchise continues to expand.

    New Emotions

    Inside Out 2 introduces a bunch of new emotions into Riley’s inner world. In addition to the original line-up (Joy, Sadness, Fear, Anger, Disgust), they also include:

    • Anxiety (orange): The focus of the film. Anxiety is always thinking ahead and wanting what is best for Riley, but also overworks and overworries her. The main narrative of the film shows Riley wanting to become the best hockey player she can possibly be; anxiety tries to help her achieve this by motivating Riley to constantly push herself forward, wake up early to train more, and work harder. However, too much anxiety distracts her from other core values in life, such as kindness and friendship, and also hurts her ability to just have fun and enjoy the game of hockey. At the climax of the film, Anxiety works itself up into such a frenzy that it freezes and has a panic attack (this scene has resonated with a lot of people who have experienced similar attacks, including myself). Riley must learn that while anxiety can be a powerful motivator it also needs to be balanced with feelings of acceptance, relaxation, and joy.
    • Envy (cyan): This emotion is always admiring others, looking up to them, and wanting what they have. When Riley first meets her hockey idols, she becomes envious of how “cool” and “successful” they are, so she strives to become just like them by mimicking them and copying their behaviors, including at one point dying her hair the same way to be more like them. Like all emotions, envy and jealousy can be insightful emotions with the right perspective: they can show us what we want or value in life. However when our lives are completely run by these feelings, we end up trying to be something we’re not.
    • Embarrassment (pink): A big goofy emotion that looks away and covers his head in a hoodie whenever something shameful or embarrassing happens to Riley. It’s interesting to note that many of the new emotions added have a social component to them. This makes sense as Riley comes of age and begins to balance her self-perception with how she is perceived by others.

      inside out 2 emotions characters
      All of the emotions in Inside Out 2 (both old and new). One cool thing about each emotion is that it is naturally paired with a specific color. Sadness is blue, Anger is red, Joy is yellow, Disgust is green, and Anxiety is orange.

    • Ennui/Boredom (purple): A humorous emotion with a stereotypically snobby French accent that constantly pretends to not be interested in anything. They will often deflect serious or uncomfortable situations with sarcasm, irony, or feigned disinterest. This character cleverly shows how many people use sarcasm as a defense mechanism when they are too afraid to be honest or sincere about their true thoughts and feelings. It reflects a common attitude among teenagers and young adults where it’s perceived as “lame” to care too much about anything.
    • Nostalgia (beige): This emotion is a side character that pops up a couple times throughout the film. Each time the other emotions humorously tell “Nostalgia” that she is arriving too soon, and that Riley has to at least wait for her first date, first kiss, or graduation before she starts reminiscing on the past. Perhaps Nostalgia will be the main character in Inside Out 10, when Riley is much older and has already lived the bulk of her life.

    The original creator Pete Docter conceived of between 5-27 emotions that could be added to the Inside Out world, so it’s likely newer emotions will continue to be introduced if the series keeps going. Check out different classifications of emotions here, the original five in the movie are based on Paul Ekman’s model (excluding “surprise”).

    Belief System and Sense of Self

    One of the most interesting new features added to the Inside Out world is the idea of a “belief system.”

    In the first movie, they introduced the concept of a “core memory” as a highly emotionally charged event that is then stored in Riley’s brain. Now these core memories can be brought to the “belief system” and turned into a belief (or recurring thought pattern). For example, when Riley fails an important exam at school, that core memory may be turned into the belief, “I’m not good enough” or “I’m not smart enough.”

    Here’s how the belief system is visually represented, it looks similar to a bunch of neurons in a brain. Each ray of light represents one specific belief:

    All of these beliefs come together to create Riley’s “sense of self.” This is depicted in the movie as a type of “electric tree,” with its roots representing each core belief.

    At first the character Joy takes complete control over Riley’s “sense of self.” It only feeds positive memories and positive beliefs into her belief system, and tries to protect her from negative memories by throwing them into the “back of the mind” where they can be ignored forever.

    When the emotion Anxiety takes over, only negative beliefs are fed into the sense of self, such as “I’m not good enough” or “I need to be better.” The “sense of self” changes color and shape to reflect these changes in how Riley sees herself.

    After Riley suffers from a panic attack during a hockey game due to being completely controlled by Anxiety, the character Joy intervenes and gets Anxiety to “let go” of the controls.

    In the outside world, Riley practices a grounding technique by making note of her five senses and taking deep breaths to bring herself back to the present moment. She then does the right thing by apologizing to her friends for being so mean and distant toward them.

    Finally Riley “calls” Joy back to her and allows herself to have fun playing the rest of the hockey game with her friends.

    By the end of the movie, Riley forms a completely new “sense of self” that accepts all of her thoughts and feelings, even when they can be conflicting or contradictory at times. Riley’s emotions come together and realize that she needs all of them.

    No single emotion gets to determine who Riley is – they all contribute in helping Riley become the best version of herself.

    Conclusion

    Overall Inside Out 2 is a worthy sequel that builds off of its predecessor in an organic and intelligent way that is bound to resonate with both children and adults. Make sure to put it on your watchlist this year!


    Enter your email to stay updated on new articles in self improvement:

    Steven Handel

    Source link

  • Why Touch Therapy is Good for Dogs and Cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

    Why Touch Therapy is Good for Dogs and Cats | Animal Wellness Magazine

    As dog and cat parents, we constantly seek ways to ensure our furry companions feel safe, relaxed, and healthy. One effective method for achieving this is through touch therapy techniques, such as TTouch and Reiki. These gentle practices not only promote relaxation but also help reduce anxiety and enhance overall well-being. By incorporating touch therapy into your dog or cat’s care routine, you can create a deeper bond with them while supporting their emotional and physical health.

    Understanding TTouch

    TTouch, or Tellington TTouch, is a gentle touch technique developed by Linda Tellington-Jones. It involves a series of circular movements and light touches applied to specific areas of your animal’s body. TTouch aims to improve body awareness, reduce tension, and promote relaxation. This technique can be particularly beneficial for animals experiencing anxiety, fear, or stress. By using TTouch, you can help your dog and cat feel more secure and comfortable in their environment, making it an excellent tool for calming anxious animals.

    Exploring Reiki

    Reiki is a Japanese healing practice that focuses on channeling energy to promote healing and relaxation. In a Reiki session, the practitioner lightly places their hands on or near the animal’s body to facilitate energy flow. This gentle touch can help alleviate stress, pain, and anxiety in dogs and cats. Reiki is a non-invasive technique that can be used alongside traditional veterinary care, making it a complementary approach to your furry friend’s health and well-being. Many dog and cat parents have reported positive changes in their furry companions’ behavior and emotional states after receiving Reiki treatments.

    Techniques for Practicing Touch Therapy

    To practice TTouch or Reiki at home, start by creating a calm and quiet environment. Choose a comfortable space where your animal feels safe, free from distractions. For TTouch, use your fingertips to make gentle circular motions on your furry friend’s body, focusing on areas where they may carry tension, such as the neck, shoulders, and back. Observe your furry companions’ reactions and adjust your touch accordingly. For Reiki, place your hands lightly on your animal or hold them a few inches away, allowing the energy to flow. Breathe deeply and maintain a relaxed state to enhance the effectiveness of the practice.

    Observing Your Animal Companion’s Response

    As you practice touch therapy techniques, pay close attention to your animal’s responses. Look for signs of relaxation, such as deep breathing, leaning into your touch, or closing the eyes. Each animal is unique, and their reactions may vary. Some animals may take to touch therapy immediately, while others may need time to adjust. Be patient and allow your animal to guide the experience. If they seem uncomfortable or anxious, take a break and try again later.

    Incorporating Touch Therapy into Your Routine

    To maximize the benefits of touch therapy, consider incorporating it into your animal companion’s daily routine. Use TTouch or Reiki during quiet moments, such as after walks or playtime, to help your furry friend unwind. You can also practice these techniques before stressful events, like vet visits or grooming sessions, to help calm your animal and reduce anxiety. Regular practice can strengthen your bond with your dog and cat and create a sense of trust and security.

    Touch therapy techniques like TTouch and Reiki offer valuable tools for dog and cat parents looking to enhance their furry companions’ emotional and physical well-being. By practicing these gentle techniques, you can help your animal relax, reduce anxiety, and foster a deeper connection. Embrace the power of touch and create a soothing environment for your dog and cat, ensuring they feel loved, secure, and happy. It is recommended to complete TTouch and Reiki courses from authoritative sources to get comprehensive knowledge of these techniques.


    Animal Wellness is North America’s top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

    Animal Wellness

    Source link

  • The Pebble In Your Shoe: Tiny Frustrations That Can Ruin Your Day

    The Pebble In Your Shoe: Tiny Frustrations That Can Ruin Your Day

    The “pebble in your shoe” metaphor perfectly describes how small annoyances can slowly wear you down and ruin your day. Here are common pebbles that might be in your shoe and the best ways to remove them.


    A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, but no one said you had to wear uncomfortable shoes

    If you’ve ever been on a long hike, then you know the importance of comfort and how even one minor annoyance can make the whole journey far more difficult. You walk for miles and miles then suddenly experience an intense pain in your foot. You sit down, remove your shoe, and find a hard rock tightly wedged between your sweaty socks and shoe leather – ouch!

    “It isn’t the mountain ahead that wears you out – it’s the grain of sand in your shoe.”

    This is a popular motivational quote that is commonly attributed to the famous boxer Muhammad Ali, but the original has been published as far back as 1916 under anonymous authors.

    The main idea is that even when it comes to huge goals, it’s often the tiniest things that hold us back and prevent us from accomplishing them. These minor annoyances may seem inconsequential at first, but over time they can cause significant discomfort, irritation, and weakness.

    What pebbles are in your shoe? What’s one small change that would make your life infinitely easier? Here’s a list of everyday examples of tiny things that may be holding you back.

    Everyday Examples of “The Pebble in Your Shoe”

    The “pebble in your shoe” can take many forms — physical, mental, social, and emotional. It can be any small discomfort that grows into a bigger problem over time.

    Here’s a list of common everyday examples with potential solutions for each one. Often times the sooner you remove the pebble, the easier things will be in the future.



    Workplace Annoyance – A colleague’s constant habit of humming or tapping their pen can be a minor distraction that becomes increasingly irritating over time.

    Solution: Mention your distraction in a nonjudgmental way without getting upset at the other person. Hopefully they will be more mindful in the future.



    Messy Environment – Messy environments can have a subtle but significant effect on our stress levels and clarity of mind, especially a messy bedroom or car.

    Solution: We often underestimate how much better we will feel once we clean something. We put off washing the car for weeks, then when we finally do it we think, “Why didn’t I do this weeks ago?”



    Losing One Hour of Sleep – Just losing one hour of sleep can have a spillover effect on the rest of your day, causing you to be more tired, distracted, and moody.

    Solution: Try to go to bed one hour early. Set up a nighttime routine that encourages relaxation. Find sleeping preferences that work best for you (temperature, clothes, pillows, etc.) Establish a consistent sleep routine that works for you.



    Procrastinating on To-Do’s – The more you put off daily chores or obligations, the more pressing and stressful they become.

    Solution: Cultivate a healthy sense of urgency toward easy tasks you can complete in 5 minutes or less. It’s easier to just get a simple task out of the way then to let it sit in your mind for days.



    Minor Health Issues – Dealing with ongoing but minor health issues like a slight headache, back pain, or seasonal allergies can be a constant, low-level irritation.

    Solution: Plan day accordingly. Take any doctor recommended medications or supplements. Let people know if you’re having an especially bad day, so you may be more cranky than usual.



    Negative Personalities – People with negative personalities who constantly nitpick, complain, and talk about problems too much can be draining to be around for extended periods of time.

    Solution: We’re influenced by the people we choose to be around through emotional contagion and network effects. If those you spend time around tend to bring out the worst in you, it may be time to find a new group of friends or environment.



    Long Lines and Wait Times – Waiting in long lines at the grocery store, DMV, or for public transportation can be a persistent and annoying part of daily life.

    Solution: If possible, go to places during times of the day/week when you know they are less busy. Check to see real-time traffic on Google and plan accordingly. Consider getting groceries delivered.



    Tech Glitches – Regularly experiencing minor technical problems with gadgets, such as a phone that frequently freezes or a laptop with a temperamental battery, can be very frustrating.

    Solution: When possible, fix or replace faulty tech that causes daily errors and frustrations. For awhile my keyboard had a couple broken keys, and it took me far too long to finally get a new one that operated way smoother.



    Spam Calls and Emails – Receiving numerous unwanted telemarketing calls or spam emails can interrupt daily activities and become a persistent nuisance.

    Solution: Immediately block and remove all spam numbers and emails. Set up caller ID, email filters, and other methods to block spam and advertisements from reaching you.



    Misplaced Items – Frequently losing keys, glasses, or other essential items can create a recurring source of irritation and delay.

    Solution: Dedicate a single place for certain items. Don’t take them off your person unless you are placing the item in its designated spot.



    Household Chores – Small but recurring tasks like taking out the trash, doing the dishes, or folding laundry can feel like never-ending, nagging obligations.

    Solution: Get small and easy tasks out of the way early and often. Learn the right mindset for doing things you don’t like, including listening to music or watching TV while doing something boring or tedious.


    Repetitive Noises – Ongoing construction noise, a neighbor’s loud music, or people talking loudly can be minor disturbances that cumulatively cause significant discomfort and distraction.

    Solution: When possible, block out unwanted noise with headphones, music, or white noise. Find ways to eliminate distractions by changing your environment.



    Traffic Jams – Regularly encountering heavy traffic during commutes can be a daily irritant that wastes time and increases stress levels.

    Solution: Do some research and find the best and fastest routes during certain times of the day. Have plenty of music or entertaining podcasts you can listen to if you get stuck in traffic.



    Uncomfortable Room Temperature – Hot and humid temperatures can make us feel tired and lethargic, hurting our ability to concentrate and get work done.

    Solution: Use fans and air conditioner to cool down. Open windows for ventilation. Wear light and breathable clothing. Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.



    Constant Notifications – Continuous alerts and notifications from apps, emails, or social media can disrupt concentration and productivity, becoming a persistent annoyance throughout the day.

    Solution: Block or mute ALL notifications that aren’t urgent (texts/calls from family or friends). Create a digital environment that doesn’t have you on hyper alert 24/7.

    Removing the “Pebble in Your Shoe”

    In general, identifying and removing the pebbles in your shoe can make your life a whole lot easier. Here are core principles to keep in mind:

    • Identify the Issue Early – Recognize and acknowledge the small issue that’s causing the discomfort. This requires paying extra attention to your environment and how it influences your mental state. A less mindful person may be in a state of constant annoyance but not able to pinpoint the source of it. Try to be more aware of shifts in your mood and what spurs them.
    • Take Action – Take steps to address and resolve the issue as soon as possible. Often the sooner you take measures to correct something, the easier it will be to fix. This could mean having a conversation with a colleague, fixing a technical problem as soon as you spot it, or getting a quick chore out of the way as soon as you remember it.
    • Prevent Recurrence – Implement measures to prevent similar issues from arising in the future, such as setting up a more ergonomic workspace, creating healthy boundaries at work or home, scheduling daily chores and regular maintenance checks, or planning your day around avoidable inconveniences.

    Remember that pebbles can take many forms which aren’t mentioned here. Take the time to step back, reflect, and ask yourself, “What are the pebbles in my shoe that can be removed?”

    Conclusion

    Of course, life can be annoying and we can’t always remove every single pebble.

    Certain problems, frustrations, and stressors are just a part of everyday life – a nosy coworker, a loud neighborhood, reporting for jury duty, or the minor inconveniences of daily chores and responsibilities.

    When you can’t control something, try to accept it with grace. After difficult days, feel free to go back to your comfort zone to recharge yourself.

    The key lesson behind the “remove the pebble” philosophy isn’t that life should always be a cakewalk, but that we shouldn’t make life any harder than it needs to be.


    Enter your email to stay updated on new articles in self improvement:

    Steven Handel

    Source link

  • Positive Psychology Tools Are Most Effective For Those Who Practice Long-Term

    Positive Psychology Tools Are Most Effective For Those Who Practice Long-Term


    A new study finds that a “Science of Happiness” university course, designed to teach students a variety of happiness hacks, provides the most long-term benefits when participants stick with the tools and exercises after completion.

    There have been many experiments showing the short-term benefits of positive psychological interventions like gratitude, meditation, kindness, and journaling, but not many studies have looked into these effects on a longer timeline.

    At the University of Bristol, there’s a popular course known as “The Science of Happiness” that aims to teach students how to use various happiness hacks to improve their mental health and well-being. This course has been running since 2019 and has been offered both online and in-person.

    The program balances practical advice with important information on topics such as: the nature of happiness, the role of biology and environment, cognitive biases, brain mechanisms, problem-solving, and the importance of social connection. At the end of each week, students are instructed to try evidence-based activities or “happiness hacks,” as a way of fostering positive mental well-being.

    In previous years, individuals who took the course reported significantly increased mental well-being from the first week to the final week, as shown by a 10-15% increase in their scores on the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale. Participants also reported reduced loneliness and anxiety. A follow-up after six weeks continued to show sustained benefits, but it was unclear how long these positive effects lasted.

    In a new study published in the journal Higher Education, researchers analyzed 228 undergraduate students from various disciplines who had completed the positive psychology course either 1 or 2 years ago. Interestingly, while most students reported short-term benefits, later group analysis revealed that these benefits did not persist uniformly across all participants during the long term follow-up period.

    A deeper look at the data revealed a crucial factor behind the program’s success: continued engagement. Approximately 51% of the students who actively practiced the recommended activities taught during the course maintained their increased mental well-being over the follow-up period. These students consistently applied positive psychology principles in their daily lives at least a year after they completed the class.

    Here’s a chart from the study illustrating the findings:

    As you can see, those who continued to follow the “happiness hacks” maintained their gains in subjective well-being during the long term follow-up.

    The most commonly reported technique that students continued to use was gratitude (37.17%), including writing letters of gratitude to others and making lists of things that they were grateful for (“three good things”). Other commonly reported techniques were mindfulness/meditation (33.63%), exercise (21.24%), journaling (17.70%) and kindness (10.62%).


    How to Create Sustained Positive Change

    The study recommends that schools and institutions consider the long-term impact of psychoeducational courses. While initial benefits are essential, sustained effects depend on prolonged engagement and commitment.

    Course designs should incorporate mechanisms to encourage continued practice:

    The goal of psychology – whether it’s with a course, book, article, therapist, or coach – is always to take what you learn and integrate it into your real world living.

    In the moment, learning about these tools and exercises can provide a nice temporary boost of relief, but then we quickly get bored, forget about them, stop applying them, and lose out on their benefits over time.

    Much like a diet or exercise regimen, you need to create a mental health system in your life that works for you and is sustainable into the future. Quick fixes are a myth. You’ll always snap back to your old ways if you don’t choose a course of action you can follow continuously and indefinitely.

    In theory, choose habits you can do for the rest of your life. That’s the mindset you need for continuous growth, happiness, and well-being. Gratitude, kindness, meditation, exercise, and journaling can become habits that are just as second-nature to you as tying your shoes or driving a car. Make self-care an everyday occurence.

    Ultimately, if you want to build a happy life, you have to be in it for the long haul.


    Enter your email to stay updated on new articles in self improvement:

    Steven Handel

    Source link

  • Social Anxiety Hierarchy Worksheet (PDF)

    Social Anxiety Hierarchy Worksheet (PDF)

    Conquer your social fears one step at a time by climbing up your “Anxiety Hierarchy.” Here’s a simple and powerful worksheet to get you started.

    Download:

    Social Anxiety Hierarchy Worksheet (PDF)

    Additional tools and resources

    This worksheet mentions several mental tools and relaxation techniques that are essential for making the most of your anxiety hierarchy. Here are links to learn more about each one.

    Mental Tools:

    Relaxation Techniques:

    Further Reading:


    Check out more self-improvement worksheets here!

    Steven Handel

    Source link

  • 3 Ways to Understand and Finally Relax Your Busy Brain | Entrepreneur

    3 Ways to Understand and Finally Relax Your Busy Brain | Entrepreneur

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    A client of mine, let’s call her Sandra, came to me for help to handle high levels of stress in her life. She’s the CEO of a 70-employee company in a male-dominated industry. That in itself was a lot of pressure. Add the strain of balancing work from home with parenting two small children. In her words, she wanted to be able to create her own calm during the chaos.

    She felt so overwhelmed, that we needed a simple launch point to relieve her stress. I advised her to start by taking a five-minute relaxation break during each workday. I gave her solid strategies to weave it into her existing schedule right away. For example, we planned the break during regular lulls in her daily itinerary. She didn’t need to rearrange her whole life to do this. With a little back and forth, we discovered early afternoon should work best. She never scheduled meetings then and her kids usually took a nap after lunch.

    But at our next session, she confided that she was struggling. Instead of helping her relax, the downtime seemed to add to her stress. Her busy brain raced out of control. It clamored on about the meeting she just led, her afternoon agenda, what to cook for dinner, etc.

    Leah Borski

    Source link

  • 5 Senses Meditation (PDF)

    5 Senses Meditation (PDF)

    Use this worksheet to meditate on each of your five senses. Take a step back and make note of any stimuli you observe through your vision, hearing, touch, smell, and taste. This is a great exercise to improve mindfulness and non-judgmental awareness.


    This content is for Monthly, Yearly, and Lifetime members only.
    Join Here Login

    Steven Handel

    Source link

  • CBD Beauty: Understanding the Benefits of Cannabidiol in Products – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    CBD Beauty: Understanding the Benefits of Cannabidiol in Products – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    In recent years, the beauty industry has seen a remarkable shift towards natural and holistic approaches to skincare and wellness. One such ingredient that has taken the beauty world by storm is Cannabidiol, commonly known as CBD. Derived from the cannabis plant, CBD has gained widespread popularity for its potential benefits when incorporated into beauty products. In this article, we’ll delve into the fascinating world of CBD beauty and explore the numerous advantages it offers for your skin and overall well-being.

     

    CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant, has emerged as a promising ingredient in the beauty industry. Its potential to enhance skin health and provide a holistic beauty experience has led to a surge in CBD-infused skincare and wellness products.

    The Science Behind CBD

    CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in maintaining skin balance and overall well-being. This interaction can potentially regulate various skin functions and address common skin concerns.

    CBD-infused Skincare Products

    CBD is now a key ingredient in a variety of skincare products, including moisturizers, serums, facial oils, and masks. These products are formulated to deliver CBD’s benefits directly to the skin, promoting a healthy and radiant complexion.

    Moisturizers and Serums

    CBD-infused moisturizers and serums offer deep hydration and may help soothe skin irritation. The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD can…

    MMP News Author

    Source link

  • Can Marijuana Lead To Stronger, More Orgasms During Sex? Here’s What This Study Showed – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    Can Marijuana Lead To Stronger, More Orgasms During Sex? Here’s What This Study Showed – Medical Marijuana Program Connection

    Talk about getting into the weeds. A study recently published in the Journal of Cannabis Research came to an interesting conclusion: that cannabis could potentially be used to treat sexual dysfunctions. In the study, which was an online survey of 811 people, over 70% of respondents reported increased sexual desire and orgasm intensity with marijuana use. And over 40% of the women surveyed indicated “increased ability to have more than one orgasm per sexual encounter.” Now, these results may sound dope. But before you ditch the haircut, the candles, the steady paycheck, or anything else that may enhance sexual arousal in favor of the ganja, consider the limitations of this study.

    This study entailed administering an online survey to a convenience sample of adults ages 18 years older who had indicated histories of cannabis use. In fact, 62.6% of the respondents reported using cannabis on a daily basis with 59.8% intentionally using cannabis before engaging in sex. Now, this probably wasn’t a typical sample of people. A convenience sample doesn’t mean that these were folks found outside a convenience store. It meant that the research team from East Carolina University (Amanda Moser, MS, Sharon M. Ballard, PhD, and Jake Jensen, PhD) and North Carolina…

    Original Author Link click here to read complete story..

    MMP News Author

    Source link

  • 3 Ways Mindfulness Can Make You a Better Entrepreneur

    3 Ways Mindfulness Can Make You a Better Entrepreneur

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    As the owner of several digital marketing companies, I’ve found that mindfulness has played a crucial role in my success over the years. Not only has it helped me to stay focused and productive, but it has also allowed me to approach challenges and difficult situations with a clear and calm mind.

    Mindfulness helps us to stay focused and present in the moment. As entrepreneurs, we often have a lot of tasks and responsibilities vying for our attention, whether it’s two dozen tabs open in our browser or six consecutive Zoom meetings on a Tuesday afternoon. It can be easy to get overwhelmed and lose sight of what’s most important. Mindfulness allows us to quiet our racing thoughts and stay focused on the task at hand, which can greatly improve our productivity and effectiveness.

    I think all entrepreneurs can benefit from this important aspect of self-improvement, and in this article, I’ll outline some of the key benefits and importance of mindfulness for entrepreneurs like myself.

    Related: What Every Entrepreneur Can Gain From Mindfulness

    What is mindfulness?

    Mindfulness is a mental state of being fully present and aware of one’s thoughts, feelings and surroundings. It is the practice of bringing one’s attention to the present moment, without judging oneself or one’s experiences. Mindfulness is often associated with meditation and other forms of contemplative practice, but I try to go beyond meditation by incorporating it into daily activities such as eating, walking and even working.

    For me, the goal of mindfulness is to help me develop a greater sense of clarity, focus and peace of mind. But the benefits at work, I find, are the strongest. If I’m present and less distracted at work, I can do more in 3 or 4 hours than I often do all day when I’m in a less mindful and more restless state.

    Achieving mindfulness at work

    One specific way that mindfulness can improve focus and concentration is through the practice of mindfulness meditation. This involves sitting in a comfortable position with a straight back, closing my eyes and focusing on my breath. When my mind starts to wander, which it inevitably will, I simply acknowledge the thought and then return my focus to my breath. This practice trains my mind to be more present and focused on my work, which has amplified my productivity dramatically over my career.

    Sometimes, even just sitting in my office chair and counting 10 deep, mindful breaths is enough to put me in a more mindful state.

    Benefit 1: Improved concentration and productivity

    Mindfulness can improve focus by helping identify and let go of distracting thoughts and emotions. For example, if you are working on a project, and your mind keeps wandering to other tasks or worries, mindfulness can help you become aware of these distractions and let them go, allowing you to refocus on the task at hand

    For example, writing a 500-word piece of copy might take me an hour or two, depending on the subject matter. However, after a 10-minute meditation session, I’m able to concentrate for long enough to write the same amount of copy in 30 minutes. Ultimately, I save time, and I’m more productive.

    Related: Benefits of Mindfulness and Awareness Meditation

    Benefit 2: Reducing stress and anxiety

    High levels of stress and anxiety can have a negative impact on an entrepreneur’s physical and mental health, leading to health issues and decreased well-being.

    One way I reduce stress and anxiety is by prioritizing self-care. This can include taking regular breaks, engaging in physical activity, getting enough sleep, and, of course, practicing mindful relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing. It is also important to create a work-life balance and set boundaries between work and personal time, which mindfulness meditation and distraction-free living can help you achieve.

    Benefit 3: Enhanced creativity and innovation

    Mindfulness is the practice of bringing one’s attention to the present moment, without judgment. This can help to increase focus and concentration, which are important for creativity and innovation. When we are mindful, we are more likely to notice things that we might otherwise overlook, and this can spark new ideas and creative solutions to problems.

    Additionally, mindfulness can help to reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being, which can make us more open to new ideas and more receptive to the creative process. For me, mindfulness creates the conditions that are conducive to creativity and innovation.

    Benefit 4: Improved relationships and business communication

    When leading a company, mindfulness can help improve business relationships and communication through greater focus, clarity and empathy. When we are mindful, we are better able to listen actively and fully engage with others, which can foster better understanding and collaboration.

    Mindfulness can also help reduce stress and improve overall mental and emotional well-being, which can enhance our ability to communicate effectively and build positive relationships with colleagues. A more mindful frame of being also helps us to be more self-aware and in control of our own thoughts and actions, which can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts from arising.

    This is what has made mindfulness such a valuable tool for improving my communication and building stronger, more positive business relationships in my entrepreneurial life.

    Related: 5 Ways to Boost Mindfulness Even on Busy Days

    Putting it all together

    Next time you’re at your work desk, try minimizing your web browser, relaxing your eyes and counting a few deep breaths. Notice the things around you. Acknowledge your thoughts as merely thoughts, and discard them if they aren’t useful for achieving your present goals. Take a walk outdoors, and observe your surroundings in the same way.

    This, for me, is the core component of mindfulness as an entrepreneur. And, if you’re anything like me, you’ll find that your business results will be greatly amplified as a result of the improved focus, communication and useful relaxation that mindfulness brings.

    Amine Rahal

    Source link

  • 4 Things You Can Do To Truly Disconnect From Work Over The Holidays

    4 Things You Can Do To Truly Disconnect From Work Over The Holidays

    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Managing email anxiety is especially challenging for entrepreneurs when taking a much-needed break. You might be taking time off over the holidays to spend time with family, but mentally, you’re back in the office because you can see your emails are piling up. Escaping the pressures of building and growing your business is almost impossible when you don’t effectively manage your inbox.

    While the idea of deleting your inbox is a satisfying thought, I think most of us can agree that may not be the best customer service move. I don’t think my clients would enjoy learning that their emails are being deleted simply because I’m trying to relax and recharge. Fortunately, we don’t have to take such drastic measures.

    Amanda Haddaway

    Source link

  • In the New Year RESOLVE … to MEDITATE … to ACHIEVE

    In the New Year RESOLVE … to MEDITATE … to ACHIEVE

    3 masterclasses: Relaxation & meditation techniques for well-being and awakening inner potential


    New York, NY, December 20, 2016 (Newswire.com)
    –
    FREE WORLDWIDE WEB EVENTS on 2, 3 & 4 JANUARY 2017 starting from Midnight

    The New Year is a time for evaluating our lives and the year’s events, for resolutions to improve and transform. www.heartfulness.org/masterclass 

    Many thought leaders today recognize the inner universe of the heart as the next frontier in the expansion of consciousness, and thus in human evolution. The heart gives us inner strength, courage, innate compassion, empathy and goodness, and allows us to respect a diversity of opinions, ideas and ways of life.

    Kamlesh D. Patel, Global Guide of Heartfulness Meditation

    To better achieve these noble attempts at improvement, an effective set of techniques will be presented to the public in three online masterclasses by Kamlesh D. Patel, the spiritual guide and global head of Heartfulness, known to many as Daaji.

    The Heartfulness Institute, a non-profit and the organizer of the event, today announced the series of three public web sessions, which are offered at no cost to all above 15 years of age.

    The core practices of Heartfulness provide a practical and skilful approach to meditation, relaxation and self-development. They foster well-being and develop inner potential. This method is easily integrated in the midst of modern-day living.

    Monday, 2 January: Relax & Expand Consciousness
    In the first class, learn the Heartfulness relaxation for physical well-being and the Heartfulness guided meditation on the source of light within your own heart.

    Tuesday, 3 January: Unwind & Simplify
    In the second class, be guided through a simple technique of unwinding the mind at the end of the day, to let go of stress and emotions, rejuvenate and simplify your life.

    Wednesday, 4 January: Connect With Your Inner Self
    In the third class, learn to connect with your inner self by listening to the heart’s voice. Observe your deepest feelings, make wise choices, and weave your destiny.

    By attending these three classes, you will learn to:

    ü    Relax for physical well-being

    ü    Meditate on the heart

    ü    Experience transmission

    ü    Deepen your meditation

    ü    Unwind the mind at the end of the day

    ü    Let go of emotional stress & rejuvenate

    ü    Connect to your inner self

    ü    Observe your deepest feelings

    ü    Make wise life choices

    ü    Find inner strength

    ü    Nurture relationships

    ü    Find joy within

    “Many thought leaders today recognize the inner universe of the heart as the next frontier in the expansion of consciousness, and thus in human evolution. The heart gives us inner strength, courage, innate compassion, empathy and goodness, and allows us to respect a diversity of opinions, ideas and ways of life,” said Kamlesh Patel. “We are confident that sharing the Heartfulness method will help you listen to your heart’s voice and thus master your life.”

    Heartfulness is an inclusive and non-dogmatic way to experience and sustain inner repose, balance and peace of mind – some of the natural outcomes of this gentle, silent heart-based meditation.

    “In the past, the Heartfulness practice was primarily available to those who discovered it by word of mouth, but now it is accessible to everyone through public conferences, online seminars and webcasts,” said Victor Kannan, the Director of the Heartfulness Institute in North America.

    “Since 2015, at large-scale interactive events in India, Europe, North America and Australia, hundreds of thousands of people have learned the Heartfulness relaxation and meditation techniques. We are now delighted to offer online classes to the world.”

    Origins and global presence:

    Heartfulness is an approach to the Raja Yoga system of meditation called Sahaj Marg, founded at the turn of the 20th century and formalized into an organization in 1945. More than seventy years later, Heartfulness has been adopted globally by groups across civil society, government departments, schools and colleges and the corporate world.

    In 130 countries, supported by 7,000 certified volunteer trainers, over a million people are practicing Heartfulness. This number continues to grow globally through hundreds of Heartfulness Centers worldwide.

    Register for FREE at: www.heartfulness.org/masterclass

    About Kamlesh D. Patel:

    Known to many as Daaji, Kamlesh D. Patel is the fourth guide in the Heartfulness tradition of meditation. Embracing the many roles of a modern-day teacher, he has that rare capacity that allows him to dive deep into the center of his existence in the heart, and simultaneously have a scientific approach to original research in the field of meditation, spirituality and human evolution.

    He is a prolific speaker and writer, and you can read his latest series on the evolution of consciousness at http://www.heartfulnessmagazine.com/evolution-of-consciousness/.

    To learn more about Daaji, go to www.daaji.org.

    About Heartfulness Institute

    Heartfulness Institute is a non-profit organization that promotes well-being and self-development through meditation, research and training.  The Institute offers programs for individuals, corporates, government departments and the armed services, schools and colleges, rural communities and civil society groups worldwide, supported by certified trainers who are volunteers and who offer their time and expertise in this social cause.

    Contact:

    masterclass@heartfulness.org​
    www.heartfulness.org

    Source: The Heartfulness Institute

    Source link