Stephen Hawking Has a Beautiful Message for Anyone Suffering From Depression

 

You might have heard about a man by the name of Stephen Hawking, whether it be in the media or in your social circles, because he is one of the greatest minds of our time.

At the age of 21, Hawking started developing symptoms of ALS, or amyotrphic lateral sclerosis, a disease that doctors claimed would take his life in about two and a half years.  Now 74, Hawking is a huge inspiration for those with disabilities, as he continues to teach, research, and provide profound wisdoms for the rest of us to ponder.

After his diagnosis, Hawking says that he had absolutely no expectations for life.  But he didn’t let it deter him from doing his best to live fully and passionately.  He has twelve honorary degrees and has built a life dedicated to the study of theoretical physics, including robust theories on creation, the Big Bang and the universe.

Depression is a subject that Hawking recently commented on at a lecture in London at the Royal Institute, likening the condition to a black hole:

“The message of this lecture is that black holes ain’t as black as they are painted. They are not the eternal prisons they were once thought. Things can get out of a black hole both on the outside and possibly to another universe. So if you feel you are in a black hole, don’t give up; there’s a way out”

Furthermore, when asked about his disabilities and the effect they have on his outlook on life, he responded beautifully:

“The victim should have the right to end his life, if he wants. But I think it would be a great mistake. However bad life may seem, there is always something you can do, and succeed at.While there’s life, there is hope.”

He would further this sentiment with a heartfelt message for those with disabilities like himself:

“If you are disabled, it is probably not your fault, but it is no good blaming the world or expecting it to take pity on you. One has to have a positive attitude and must make the best of the situation that one finds oneself in; if one is physically disabled, one cannot afford to be psychologically disabled as well. In my opinion, one should concentrate on activities in which one’s physical disability will not present a serious handicap. I am afraid that Olympic Games for the disabled do not appeal to me, but it is easy for me to say that because I never liked athletics anyway. On the other hand, science is a very good area for disabled people because it goes on mainly in the mind. Of course, most kinds of experimental work are probably ruled out for most such people, but theoretical work is almost ideal.

My disabilities have not been a significant handicap in my field, which is theoretical physics. Indeed, they have helped me in a way by shielding me from lecturing and administrative work that I would otherwise have been involved in. I have managed, however, only because of the large amount of help I have received from my wife, children, colleagues and students. I find that people in general are very ready to help, but you should encourage them to feel that their efforts to aid you are worthwhile by doing as well as you possibly can.”

Watch Stephen Hawking’s lecture on how to escape a black hole in the video above and remember, “while there’s life,

how hypnosis can change your brain’s perception of your body

“Tranceformation:” David Spiegel on how hypnosis can change your brain’s perception of your body

Andrea Ford on March 10, 2015

When we think of cognitive function, we usually think of having the power to alter our reasoning, while we passively respond to our perceptions. What if we could do the inverse: manipulate our perception, while merely responding to reasoning and language? That is the basic neurological explanation of hypnosis, says David Spiegel, MD, director of the Center on Stress and Health and medical director of the Center for Integrative Medicine.
Spiegel spoke on new research in hypnosis yesterday morning during the Integrative Medicine Research Lecture Series presented by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). Despite its Greek etymology, hypnosis does not involve going to sleep; it’s more like a narrowing of attention. “Hypnosis is to consciousness what a telephoto lens is to a camera,” Spiegel explained.
When hypnotized, you put outside of awareness what would normally be in consciousness (dissociation), and become less likely to judge what people tell you (suggestibility). The idea of this often makes people nervous, because we’re evolved to respond to nuanced social cues. But a growing body of scientific evidence suggests that overcoming this nervousness can yield a wealth of health benefits.
Hypnosis can be an effective method for managing pain, and treating anxiety and stress-related disorders. Past studies have shown that people hypnotized before operative care have a shorter procedure time and a significant reduction in intraprocedural complications, such as hypoxemia and vomiting. One study showed that in select cases “hypnosis as sole anesthesia works extremely well,” Spiegel said.

In another example, getting urinary catheters into kids is notoriously difficult – the more they resist, the harder it is. Telling them that “your body needs to be here, but you don’t, so we’re going somewhere else” and then using hypnosis makes the procedure significantly more comfortable for them, according to a past Stanford study.
In the talk, Spiegel gave examples of recent research that shows that hypnosis can relieve Parkinson’s tremors, help people quit smoking and help moderate gastric acid production. It hasn’t caught on because “we just don’t have an industry to push it,” Spiegel commented, joking about potential interest from pocket watch manufacturers.
To illustrate the opening explanation, Spiegel described some fascinating recent studies where participants actually changed their perception of color saturation and the strength of shocks. When the frontal cortex, responsible for language and “controlled” thought, passively received language during hypnosis, it altered the activity in the back of the brain, where “uncontrolled” perception occurs.
Spiegel has co-authored a book, Trance and Treatment: Clinical Uses of Hypnosis, with more information on his research.
Previously: Exploring the science of hypnosis with Stanford’s David Spiegel, Not everyone can be hypnotized – and researchers are one step closer to understanding why, David Spiegel discusses the healing properties of hypnosis, Easing pain and improving recovery with hypnosis, Hypnosis helps baseball manager quit tobacco habit, and More patients turning to hypnosis to help ease symptoms
Photo by Ludovico Caldara

 Scientists discover how hypnosis actually works

The word "hypnosis" might conjure notions of the supernatural, or of parlor tricks and con men, but real hypnosis is a clinical tool frequently used by psychiatrists. Now scientists are catching a glimpse of how it affects the brain.
About two-thirds of people show some susceptibility to hypnosis, and the technique has been used to treat pain management and anxiety, among other conditions.
A group of researchers at the Stanford School of Medicine just used brain imaging to see what was actually happening to people while they were under hypnosis. The team gathered 57 people, some of whom were highly susceptible to hypnotic trance states and others who were not hypnotizable at all.
They placed the participants in brain imaging machines, and played various sets of prerecorded instructions—two sets were meant to induce hypnosis, and two others were given other instructions.
The images captured the regions of the brain that were most active and most dormant while the participants were hypnotized. The team saw changes in three regions in the hypnotized patients.
They saw decreased activity in a region known as the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex, a region known to be critical for evaluating contexts, which aids in deciding what to worry about and what to ignore in a particular situation. Reducing that activity shows hypnotized people are able to suspend judgement and immerse themselves in something, without thinking of what else they could or should be attending.
The second change appeared in some of the parts of the brain that give people the ability to separate the thoughts in their heads from the feelings in their bodies.
People in hypnosis "can picture something that makes them stressed, but they can imagine that their bodies are floating and comfortable," said the study's senior author, Stanford psychiatry professor David Spiegel, in an interview with CNBC. "So, when you are thinking about something, you can better control how your body responds to that thought."
The third region affected is located very deep in the brain and involves self-consciousness. "People who are hypnotized tend not to be self-conscious, and so they will do things they wouldn't normally do," Spiegel said. "That has therapeutic potential. You can get people to shake up the way they react to problems and approach them from a different point of view."
The team published its findings Thursday in the journal Cerebral Cortex.
Spiegel hopes the research will push forward the use of hypnosis as a clinical technique.
"This is showing that hypnosis is not a parlor trick or a magic show," Spiegal told CNBC. "It is a neurobiological phenomenon."
He added that hypnosis is underutilized in health care, and that hypnosis can be a viable alternative to the use of painkillers, which have proven to be addictive to millions of people.
"I think this illustrates the reality of hypnosis as a phenomenon," he said, "and the fact that this is not a way of losing control, as a lot of people fear. It is a way of teaching people to enhance control over their brains and bodies."

Why do Women in China rarely have Breast Cancer?

The thought of breast cancer is scary and troubles women worldwide.

What may cause you to raise your eyebrows is that women in Asian countries such as China have lower incidences of the illness. Dietary preferences may explain this phenomenon.

What is breast cancer?

Simply put, mammary cancer happens when cells in the breast turn rogue. They grow fast, forming tumors which a doctor can usually detect via a mammogram or an X-Ray of the chest area. Though these tumors are more common in women, they may develop in men as well.

Malignant tumors that begin in the milk duct, or ductal carcinomas, are the most familiar type of breast cancer. Cancers arising in the lobules, or lobular carcinomas, happen less.

Breast cancer starts with thickened tissue in a woman’s breast. These cells form what most people call a “lump.” She may feel a sting in her armpits that has no links with her menstrual period. Her skin may redden, and a rash may develop around her nipples. Discharge may flow from one of them.

What raises the risk of breast cancer?

While experts cannot pinpoint the causes of breast cancer, they can identify what puts a woman at a risk of developing it. Your tendency to contract it is high if you have the following attributes. Your propensity for breast cancer increases when you are older. Cancer develops in postmenopausal women rather than those who are younger.

80% of breast cancers occur in women over the age of 50.

Genetics and family history may determine the likelihood of getting the Big C. If a close relative has it, the risk of you contracting it is high. That said, breast cancers are common, and a majority of them are not hereditary. The possibility of breast cancer may rise if you had benign breast lumps. They include atypical ductal hyperplasia and lobular carcinoma. There is a likelihood of them metastasizing if they develop again.

Further, women with high levels of estrogen are more likely than their peers to have breast tumors. If you had your periods earlier than other women your age, be alert to this. How heavy you are may decide whether you get breast cancer or not. Obese menopausal women are more likely than their slimmer peers to develop growths in their mammary glands. They tend to produce higher levels of estrogen.

An interesting point to note is that taller women are more prone to breast cancer than shorter ones, though experts still need to establish the reason for this. Women who consume more alcohol have a higher risk than others of developing breast cancer. If you want to kick cancer to the curb, take no more than one alcoholic beverage per day.

Breast cancer raises its ugly head because of increased levels of estrogen and progesterone in the female body. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may contribute to the development of tumors. Women who need to replace estrogen in their bodies are more likely than others to contract the disease. Combined estrogen and progesterone therapy increase their risk.
- See more at: http://www.thinkinghumanity.com/2016/09/women-in-china-rarely-get-breast-cancer-and-here-is-why.html#sthash.bw4FGWIU.SqZATjyI.dpuf

The Diet Factor: Why Chinese Women Are Less Likely to Develop Breast Cancer

These risk factors aside, a woman’s diet may be one of the biggest reasons for getting breast cancer. Jane Plant, a renowned professor of geochemistry, received a breast cancer diagnosis from her gynecologist. She decided to put up a fight against the disease.

Her husband, who worked in China, found that the breast cancer rates were much lower there than in Western countries. The Plants discovered that Chinese diets comprised only 14% of fat compared with Western diets, which contained 36% fat. Jane then realized that few Chinese ate dairy produce.

She started to follow a revolutionary diet plan that changed her fate for the best. She replaced high-fat dairy products with low-fat Cheese and skimmed milk.

The lump in her breast remained the same size after her first session of chemotherapy. She removed dairy from her diet, and it shrank after the second session. It vanished after her third chemo session, a phenomenon which astounded specialists at Charing Cross hospital.

Jane’s experience brings to mind that the dietary choices could be responsible for the onset of cancer. A low-fat diet does a lot to reduce the signs of the disease.

Say Goodbye to Breast Cancer with these ten low-fat foods

Plant’s theory may not be far off the mark. If you follow a low-fat diet like the Chinese do, you can keep the Big C at a distance. These non-fattening foods will be a great help.

1. Mushrooms

The Chinese add lots of mushrooms to their noodles and omelets. A study in the Chinese health journal PLos One revealed that a diet high in mushrooms offers protection from breast cancer. If you dislike Chicken Chow Mien, you can add them to stews, scrambled eggs or stir-fries.

2. Broccoli Sprouts

These vegetables are high in antioxidants. The Center for Cancer Research found that one of them, Sulforaphane, may target cancer growth. Have them in sandwiches and salads.

3. Pomegranates

These fruits are high in ellagic acid, an antioxidant that may slow cancer development. Scientists from the Beckman Research Institute discovered that it restrains the enzymes that may cause breast cancer.

4. Lentils

The American Journal Of Nutrition supports Jane Plant’s theory that dietary changes may help to stop breast cancer development. Researchers studied the Asian diet and found that legumes and soy contributed to lower rates of breast cancer. If you do not like stir-fried legumes, try a lentil burger. You may substitute them with kale as well.

5. Walnuts

If you want to prevent breast cancer, go nuts. That is, have handfuls of walnuts. Scientists from the Marshall University School of Medicine in West Virginia discovered that the Omega acids, phytoestrogens, and antioxidants in them control cancerous enzymes. Be creative and add walnuts to soups, muffins or even pizza.

6. Blueberries

The Chinese name for these delightful fruits is “Lan Mei”, and they explain why many of their women do not get breast cancer. Pterostilbene, a potent antioxidant in them, cause cancerous cells to self-destruct. This fascinating process is known as apoptosis. Enjoy blueberries with yogurt and cereals.

7. Spinach

Women who take in high amounts of folate have low breast cancer rates. Spinach has lots of this Vitamin-B compound. If you want to enjoy this low-fat food as the Chinese do, fry spinach leaves with prawns and a little soy sauce.

8. Eggs

Women prize eggs for their ability to control hair fall and various skin conditions. The Choline in them helps with these ailments, and breast cancer as well. A study found that it ensures the proper functioning of cells. The Chinese fry them with noodles and make slurp-worthy omelets with them.

9. Salmon

The Chinese enjoy raw fish dishes every lunar new year, and they could explain why breast cancer rates among them are not significant. Vitamin D in salmon prevent “good” cells from turning rogue. Omega-3 fat in this fish stops the spread of cancerous cells in the breast to other parts of the body.

10. Rye and Whole Grains

If the idea of raw salmon does not excite you, eat more grain instead. The American Institute for Cancer Research found that the lignans, fiber, phytonutrients, minerals and vitamins in them helped to stop cancer cells from spreading. Eat rye bread with eggs, tomato or sprouts.

Why do fewer Chinese women get breast cancer? Low-fat diets are the simple answer to this question. Eat these foods and say goodbye to it for good.

References:

-http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3972098/
-http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2862133/
-http://ajcn.nutrition.org/content/70/3/439s.full
-http://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/vitamin-d-fact-sheet
-http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-04/epr-enf040208.php

By Michelle L.

- See more at: http://www.thinkinghumanity.com/2016/09/women-in-china-rarely-get-breast-cancer-and-here-is-why.html#sthash.bw4FGWIU.SqZATjyI.dpuf

22 Sarcastic Zen Phrases

1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either. Just pretty much leave me the hell alone.

2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and leaky tire.

3. It’s always darkest before dawn. So if you’re going to steal your neighbor’s newspaper, that’s the time to do it.

4. Don’t be irreplaceable. If you can’t be replaced, you can’t be promoted.

5. Always remember that you’re unique. Just like everyone else.

6. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

7. If you think nobody cares if you’re alive, try missing a couple of car payments.

8. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you’re a mile away and you have their shoes.

9. If at first you don’t succeed, skydiving is not for you.

10. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.
 
11. If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably worth it.

12. If you tell the truth, you don’t have to remember anything.

13. Some days you’re the bug; some days you’re the windshield.

14. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.

15. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket.

16. A closed mouth gathers no foot.

17. Duct tape is like ‘The Force’. It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.

18. There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.

19. Generally speaking, you aren’t learning much when your lips are moving.

20. Experience is something you don’t get until just after you need it.
 
21. Never miss a good chance to shut up.

22. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.

9 Sarcastic Zen Phrases With REAL Wisdom

Zen is a philosophy or school of thought based in buddhist teachings that focuses almost entirely on meditation and intuition. This philosophy is all about mindfulness and self awareness in every moment. When you think about it, sarcasm is all about self awareness and intuition as well. You have to have a full mindful understanding of yourself and the subject in order to successfully execute sarcasm.
Your tone, body language and wording should be intuitive and deliberate, or else you might very well be misunderstood by those around you. Below are 8 great examples of that witty zen sarcasm that you’ll love!

1. Always Remember That You Are Unique, Just Like Everybody Else.

There is something to be said for the solidarity that comes through our differences. Even though we all have individual talents and traits to bring to the table, there are always infinite unifying similarities that we share that simply cannot be denied. We are all singular in many ways, but we are all the same as well.

2. Sometimes You’re The Bug And Other Times You’re the Windshield.

Life can be a wild ride and there’s no way to predict the future. One day you might be on top of the world,dominating the game in all aspects, and then the next day you’re down in the dirt, clawing your way out of a hole. Either way, the potential of tomorrow is endless and wonderful. There’s no telling what the dawn will bring.

3. If You Ever Feel You Are Worthless Remember That You Are Full Of Expensive Organs.

Perspective is one of the biggest principles in zen philosophy. There are always a hundred different ways to look at life and all of it’s challenges. You may be feeling silly or self conscious about the body you live in, but from a different point of view (the black markets salesman or the person on the donor list) that very same body is a treasure or a miracle.

4. If you tell the truth, you never have to remember anything.

The truth may not always be the most comfortable path to take, but in reality it is the easiest and simplest. Deception takes a lot of work and effort and will always set you up for failure. You will never have to panic about whether or not you’re remembering the truth accurately for the right audience because it will immediately be there in the forefront of your mind, no work required.

5. Never Test The Depth Of Water With Both Feet.

We shouldn’t act out of total fear at all times, but we should also be wary of acting with total abandon. Be smart and cautious about making new decisions. If you wish to take the risk then do so, but don’t be foolish about it.

6. Don’t Walk Behind Me, For I May Not Lead. Do Not Walk Ahead Me, For I May Not Follow. Do Not Walk Beside Me Either. Just Pretty Much Leave Me The Hell Alone.

This is a clever way of saying let me be myself and do what I need to do, don’t project your feelings or needs onto me. In other words, it’s sort of a mind your own business phrase. It’s important not to place your focus on others or to depend on them to determine your position or direction in life and this is a fairly polite yet firm way of telling them so.

7. Everyone Seems Normal Until You Get To Know Them.

Fitting in with the crowd or seeming “normal” is part of the wiring of the human brain. Blending in once helped us survive in a harsher world, although it doesn’t benefit us in the same way now.
The point of this saying is that it’s easy to look like a plain average person from a distance (that could be physical or emotional) but the closer we get to people, the more clearly we can see all of their little eccentricities and unique quirks.

8. Never Miss A Good Chance To Shut Up.

We tend to think of silence or emptiness as having no value, but truthfully it is a precious thing. There is much to be learned in silence. We need not fill every blank space just because it feels a little uncomfortable. Sometimes taking a step back and shutting up offers you a new and more helpful perspective.

9. A Journey Of A Thousand Miles Begins With A Broken Fan Belt And A Leaky Tire.

There are struggles in every endeavor, but that doesn’t mean you are at the end of the journey just because things have gone wrong. You have to expect difficulties to arise from time to time, it’s simply the way life goes. Don’t let the bumps along the way discourage you from completing the task at hand. You will get there if you just keep trying.

25 Science-Backed Ways to Feel Happier

If you’re happy and you know it, clap your hands! Even as children, we’re taught to recognize and celebrate feelings of happiness—and it’s no wonder. Not only is happiness one of the most positive emotions we can experience, but being happy is also the key to a fulfilled, healthy life. Plus, cheeriness is linked to living longer, how hard we work, physical function as we age, and an improved immune system, among other health benefits.
While it’s hard to define (especially since it varies from person to person), some experts describe happiness as “a combination of life satisfaction and having more positive emotions than negative emotions,” while others view it as consisting of three parts: feeling good, living a “good life,” and feeling part of a larger purpose. There’s also a distinct difference between short- and long-term happiness: The former is a fleeting feeling, while the latter applies to how we describe our own lives.
While some factors that affect happiness might be outside of our control (such as genetics or certain life circumstances), there are always actions we can take to amp up our own good feelings. To smile wider, be more satisfied with life, and feel altogether better—both in the present and the future—try introducing any (or all!) of these practices into your life.

1. Spend time outside.

Enjoying time al fresco is a great way to put some pep back in your step. Living near green spaces is associated with better mental health, and even just looking at images of nature scenes can stimulate the parts of your brain associated with happiness, positivity, and emotional stability. Plus, spending time in the great outdoors exposes us to sunlight, which can help our bodies produce vitamin D. Since low levels of the nutrient have been linked to depression, soaking up a little bit of sun (we’re talking just 15 minutes per day) may lift your spirits both in the present and over the long term. Just make sure to slather on some sunscreen!

2. Sweat it out.

We’re obviously big fans of exercise in general, but making time for a regular fitness session does more than just sculpt a strong physique. While getting your sweat on may not cause happiness, it can certainly contribute to it. Physical activity helps our bodies produce disease-fighting proteins—called antibodies—and our brains release endorphins. While antibodies boost happiness by keeping illness at bay, endorphins are feel-good chemicals that improve your mood while promoting feelings of euphoria. To top it all off, research suggests that regular activity may lead to lasting happiness. So it’s safe to say your gym membership pays off—physically and mentally—in the long run.

3. Sleep more.

Catnaps, power naps, a full night’s sleep… no matter the method, a quality snooze session is vital for overall well-being and happiness. In fact, research shows that not sleeping enough (four hours per night) may lead to lower levels of optimism. And other studies show skimping on sleep can damage our on-the-job performance and academic performance. Your best bet: Load up on your vitamin Zzz’s for a healthier, happier life.

4. Meditate.

Though meditating can sometimes be daunting (quieting your mental chit-chat is tough work!), there are tons of health benefits associated with the practice. Research shows that eight weeks of daily meditation can lead to greater happiness. Looking to get started? Try incorporating any of these 10 unexpected meditation strategies into your day.

5. Turn up the tunes.

Just try to frown while listening to upbeat songs (like any of the ones on our Ultimate Happy Playlist)—we dare you! Jamming out can help reduce stress—which leads to greater happiness in general. Plus, research shows listening to music with the goal and desire to become happier may actually lead to greater happiness than simply listening for the sake of listening. So the next time you pump up the volume, keep that positive intention in mind—you may just find yourself smiling a little wider.

6. Get a new hobby.

Not only is it mentally stimulating (not to mention fun), but challenging yourself to learn a new skill can lead to greater happiness, experts say. That’s thanks to the feelings of accomplishment and self-confidence that often come along with gaining new expertise. Consider this your cue to sign up for those French lessons you’ve always wanted to take, or pick up the ukulele—choose something that genuinely interests you, and run with it!

7. Write it down.

Negative thoughts are nasty, powerful, and all too easy to dwell upon—and it goes without saying that doing so can make us feel pretty bummed. One way to relieve your mind: Jot it all down. Try writing down your negative thoughts on a piece of paper, and then throwing the piece of paper away. Research suggests that physically tossing your worries can lessen their hold over you. On the flipside, if you document positive experiences that you feel grateful for, you’re likely to feel happier and more satisfied with life. And if you really want to boost your mood, phone a friend and share some of your happy journal entries—doing so may triple your positive feelings.

8. Get busy.

It’s no secret that stress can get you down. Luckily there’s a pretty sweet solution: some between-the-sheets action—and that totally includes solo sessions. Those mind-blowing romps can not only boost your mood, but also slash stress and beat anxiety. Can’t argue with that, right? And in case you need an excuse to get it on more often, consider this: Research suggests that the more sex people have, the happier they tend to be. One study even suggests that having sex once a week may make you feel as stoked as scoring an additional $50,000 in income. Getting lucky even more frequently—four or more times per week—has been linked to making more money—and while extra dough certainly can’t buy happiness, it definitely plays a part in it.

9. Have an attitude of gratitude.

Our parents were onto something when they reminded us to always write our thank-you notes—doing so can make you healthier and happier. What’s more, being grateful may lead to other positive emotions (including a boost in energy and optimism) and well-being. Besides simply thanking people, try keeping a gratitude journal, and write down what you’re thankful for every day. Experts maintain that jotting down even one sentence of gratitude a day can boost feelings of happiness.

10. Spread joy.

Much like yawning and a case of the giggles, happiness really is contagious. One study found that happiness has a waterfall effect among pals (and their pals… and their pals’ pals). When one person’s happy, it spreads to his or her friends and entire social network over the long term. Pretty much the most awesome way to influence other people, right?

11. Be a friend.

A few wise men once sang, “I get by with a little help from my friends”—and they couldn’t be more spot-on. Except we don’t justget by thanks to our friendships—positive friendships help us feel more confident, less stressed, and happier. To make new friends—and keep the ones you have—try these 16 tips.

12. Learn to let go.

Adopting a hakuna matata outlook can boost overall happiness. Easier said than done, to be sure, but making a point to detach yourself from mistakes, worries, and regrets may lead to more lighthearted times. In fact, holding onto resentment and hurt feelings can tie you to the past and also marks a decision to continue suffering. Make the choice to be happy by forgiving people who hurt you and moving away from situations from your past that brought you down.

13. Practice self-care on a daily basis.

Given the manic pace of day-to-day life, it’s easy to forget about taking care of yourself—and that’s a surefire way to end up unhappy, burnt out, and even ill. Try treating yourself to regular actions that improve your overall, long-term health and happiness (this list is a pretty great place to start!).

14. Practice yoga.

Getting your om on is an excellent way to boost your mood and beat anxiety, research shows. In fact, one study suggests yoga may be more effective at boosting mood than other methods of exercise. Plus, practicing yoga can also help slash stress and improve immunity—both of which contribute to overall, long-term health and happiness.

15. Load up on nutrients.

When it comes to leading a healthy lifestyle, eating well is clutch—especially since the nutrients you consume improve your mental health as much as your physical well-being. Case in point: Research finds that happiness and mental well-being are highest among people who eat a good amount of fruit and vegetables per day (seven portions, in this case). Check out this long list of mood-boosting nutrients here, and fill up your plate with the good stuff.

16. Feel the flower power.

Apart from brightening up a room, flowers can also brighten up your mood. A floral fixture may reduce feelings of pain and anxiety while boosting positive emotions. One study also shows that looking at flowers first thing in the morning leads to increased happiness and energy and decreased anxiety. Not only that, but being surrounded by blooms can also positively affect your 9-to-5—it’s been shown to boost creativity and make workspaces feel more pleasant.

17. Go easy on yourself.

Too often, we’re our own worst enemies. While it’s good to be aware of mistakes you’ve made and improvements you can make, beating yourself up on the regular is a surefire way to wind up singing the blues. In fact, experts believe that self-criticism can just make us more miserable. So instead of dwelling on your every failing, focus on how and why you value yourself. This shift will help make you stronger, more productive, less stressed, and, yes, happier.

18. Grab a yellow shirt.

The next time you’re feeling down, try harnessing the power of a yellow hue. Research shows happy people tend to associate their mood with the cheerful color, and folks also tend to think of yellow as the color of optimism (possibly because we associate it with the sun). To incorporate the power of yellow into your life, try adding a bit of yellow to your outfit or painting your walls the cheerful hue.

19. Minimize stress.

When it’s a chronic problem, the big bad stress monster is responsible for tons of health problems—including anxiety, sleep issues, depression, and more—and these can all put a damper on your mood. To keep your spirits soaring, try incorporating any of these 23 stress-busting strategies into your life.

20. See the glass as half-full.

If there’s one trait that goes hand-in-hand with happiness, it’s optimism. People who think positively are less likely to feel depressed, more productive at work, and generally healthier than their doom-and-gloom counterparts. That said, it’s important to be both optimistic and realistic instead of just blindly positive. (In fact, forcing ourselves to feel over-the-top positive may do more harm than good, especially for those of us more prone to cynical thinking.) People with a healthy combination of optimism and realism don’t let unhappy thoughts bring them down, but they use their realistic outlook to make smart decisions and actions. Talk about the best of both worlds.

21. Have meaningful conversations.

Shooting the breeze may be fun and completely effortless, but small talk won’t lead you to a happier life. In one study, people who engaged in the least amount of meaningless chit-chat were also the happiest. And speaking of conversation skills, being a good listener may also lead to a greater sense of well-being, stronger relationships, and all-around better experiences.

22. Get stuff done.

Fact: Since it prevents us from accomplishing goals, procrastination diminishes happiness. Avoid putting off tasks and continue working towards your goals in order to give yourself a mental boost. Though conquering something challenging may stress us out while we’re doing it, it also makes us happier in the long run (hey, who doesn’t love an accomplishment?). Plus, when we set goals (and meet or surpass our hopes and expectations), it can help us feel more purpose and control and boosts our self-esteem.

23. Complain—the right way.

Whining is generally considered a bad thing—and yeah, it can get pretty annoying if you’re on the receiving end. Done effectively, however, it can actually benefit our mental health. So what exactly makes complaining effective? When voicing a concern leads to results, which in turn lead to a better mood and self-esteem andfeeling empowered, it’s effective. In other words, complaining done right involves identifying a problem and taking positive action to address it, not just getting stuck in a loop-de-loop of complaints.

24. Save money…

Building up a nest egg is an important part of a happy life—and a financially sound future. One survey found that the more people saved, the happier they tended to be. Putting money aside is also associated with feelings of security, wellbeing, and control. Save some cash here, there, and everywhere with these 94 (!) money-saving tips.

25. ...And spend it (wisely)!

While it’s crucial to stash some cash away for a rainy day, one study suggests that indulging in the occasional shopping trip can actually reduce sadness by making us feel more in-control. While retail therapy seems to be a legit thing, science shows that spending money on others is especially beneficial to happiness. And if you really want to boost your mood, experts suggest combining an actual gift with the gift of your time—so both you and your giftee enjoy the purchase and the time spent together—whether you’re giving an experience, like cooking classes, or something more material, like new golf clubs.

The 7 Biggest Lies Holding You Back From Happines

The 7 Biggest Lies Holding You Back From Happiness

 

Over time, our consistent thoughts become our beliefs. This is a positive thing if our beliefs serve us in some way—like believing you are a healthy person, resilient, or talented in your work. But when our beliefs are based on thoughts that do not serve us now or in the future, they become dangerous.
Sometimes we tell ourselves subtle lies to feel better, which can eventually become our reality. It’s easier to repeat these lies than to face a truth that may be uncomfortable and more painful to accept. These seven lies may offer some comfort in the present moment, but eventually only harm us and hold us back from being truly happy in the long run.

1. "He or she will change."

Newsflash: You can’t “fix” or change anyone—ever. When I was a teenager, I went to an Alcoholics Anononymous meeting because my father was an alcoholic (Al Anon meetings are for relatives and friends too). We all desperately wanted him to become sober. I’ll never forget when the leader of the group said, “You can love and encourage your dad. But there is no law in the world against self-destruction.” He was right.
The same goes for changing a partner’s level of commitment to you, their personal debt, or even their diet preferences. Once you accept someone as they are and that you cannot change them, you will feel free.

2. "I'll do it 'one day.'"

This one is particularly deceptive. One day you will... what—travel the world, write a novel, start your side business? This lie drives me crazy. Because one day you will wake up and there will be no time left to do any of these things. No one even knows how many precious days they have here on planet Earth. Plan it now. Get the wheels in motion now. Do it now. The present is all we’ve got.
 

3. "If I had more time, I would do X, Y, and Z."

We love to blame time as the reason we don’t do a lot of things—work out, meditate, read. What about 20 minutes of yoga, in the morning, in your PJs, in the living room? What about closing your eyes and listening to a meditation app or podcast on your commute? What about always carrying a Kindle or book in your bag and whipping it out anytime you’re kept waiting during the day?
Another surefire way to find more time: Cut back on Tweeting, texting, and Instagramming. Spending 20 to 30 minutes less on social media per day adds up to a whole lot of time every week.

The biggest magic you can apply to your life now is appreciation.

4. "If I could just have X, everything would be so much better."

The truth is, if we’re not happy now, we won’t be happy when we get “the prize”—the love interest, the pay raise, the "perfect" body. Remember, many of the things you have in your life now were once things you wished for. There is no magic “thing” eluding you. The biggest magic you can apply to your life now is appreciation. Appreciation makes everything better, and it turns what you have into enough.

5. "I’m stuck."

Even though it doesn’t feel like it, we always have a choice. Whether you feel like you can't move to a new apartment, get a new job, or get out of a relationship, there's always a way. I had a life coaching client earlier this year who wanted to start a photography business on the side, but said she couldn’t because she had “no time, no resources, and no idea where to start!”
What she actually was saying was, “If I just tried a little harder, I could be a kick-ass photographer part-time, but I'm choosing to be a victim instead.” She would rather hang onto this lie than risk going for it. It may seem safer than the risk of failure, but I'm telling you, it’s not. It just worsens over time.

6. "I'm not ready to do X."

No one ever truly feels ready for anything—parenthood, entrepreneurship, change. We just begin. That is how we become ready. If you say you aren't ready for something, you are either not really interested in doing it or you are procrastinating (most likely out of fear). Which is it?

You do not need to do anything to deserve a full, rich, and happy life.

7. "I’m not good enough."

This is the biggest lie of all. You are good enough. You are enough. You do not need to do anything to deserve a full, rich, and happy life. As Oprah said, "There's a difference between thinking you deserve to be happy and knowing that you are worthy of being happy. Your being alive makes happiness your birthright. You alone are enough."

When You Start to Enjoy Being Alone, These 10 Things Will Happen

When You Start to Enjoy Being Alone, These 10 Things Will Happen

Some people think of “being alone” as a bad thing. It either means you’re anti-social, or unwanted, neither of which are a good position to be in.

But actually, being alone isn’t’ necessarily a bad thing, as there are a handful of benefits that emerge once you learn to embrace solitude.

I’m not advocating you go all Tom Hanks in Cast Away, because no one can argue the benefits, and the joys, that come along with fulfilling relationships with other people.

But I am saying that once you learn to enjoy being alone, you’re going to grow as a person.

Below are ten amazing things that will happen in your life when you start to enjoy being alone.

1. You’ll get to recharge. Often times when we’re surrounded by other people, we’re expending a lot of energy. Trying to keep others happy, make them laugh, soothe their egos, read their emotions, and all of the other rigors that come along with regular interaction.

It can be mentally draining if you’re constantly connected to other people. A little alone time lets you recharge and take a break from the emotionally and mentally taxing job of constant interaction.

2. You’ll reflect more often. Your life is always moving at a crazy fast pace. So fast in fact, that it’s probably rare when you have a moment alone to sit and reflect on your life.

Being alone gives you the perfect opportunity for a little self reflection. Since you aren’t spending so much time processing the thoughts and feelings of others, it’s the best time to turn your focus inwards.

Solitude provides the perfect environment for reflection.

3. You’ll get in touch with your own emotions. Again, when you’re surrounded by other people all the time, you’re constantly trying to read, and cater to, the other persons’s emotions. So much so, that you could end up losing touch with your own.

When you start to enjoy being alone, you’ll gain a greater perspective for your own emotions. You’ll create a deeper understanding of what makes you happy, what upsets you, and what saddens you.

With that knowledge, it’s then easier to regulate your emotions. But it all starts with understanding how you feel, and that comes from a little bit of solitude.

4. You’ll start doing things you actually enjoy. When you’re constantly in the company of other people, you’re always making compromises in order to find solutions that the entire group can enjoy. And unfortunately, the things you want most, may not always line up with what the group wants.

So it’s easy to enjoy being alone once you realize that doing so gives you more freedom to do the things you actually want to do.

5. You’ll become more productive. Being in the company of other people can be fun and entertaining, but it can also seriously affect your productivity. There are times when the company of other people acts as nothing more than a distraction from getting your work done.

Time spent alone can be some of the most productive time in your life—mostly because there are less distractions, and you can just put your head down and get to work.

6. You’ll enjoy your relationships even more. When you spend time alone on a regular basis, and eventually start to enjoy being alone, you’ll come to find that you also enjoy your relationships with other people even more.

And that’s because the time spent alone gives you a greater appreciation for yourself.

But it also let’s you appreciate all the great things that come from your relationships with other people, most of which you were oblivious to before.

7. You’ll feel more independent. Once you enjoy being alone, you’ll feel more confident in your ability to actually be alone. And that naturally leads to you feeling more independent.

You’ll no longer feel that anxiety, or burning desire for company, once you learn to enjoy being alone. You won’t feel the need for constant interaction with other people, or the anxiety associated with looking around and seeing no one but yourself.

8. You’ll get a break from constantly trying to keep other people happy. Life is filled with relationships, and most relationships only last when both people are kept happy. And that can turn into a draining job depending who that relationship is with. Now, this does’t only apply to personal relationships, but every kind of relationship.

Once you’re alone, the only person’s happiness you have to worry about in that moment, is your own. You can treat yourself to thing that makes you happy, but may have upset someone else.

9. You won’t have to apologize for anything. When you start to enjoy being alone, you’ll quickly see that solitude means you don’t have to keep apologizing for what you’ve done. So often, we do things that end up upsetting other people, or hurting someone else’s feelings, and then have to quickly apologize for it.