Breakfast Egg Soup (Better Breakfast Month)

Every year in September is Better Breakfast Month. Sometimes skipping breakfast is not an effective way to start a workday. However, there are times when you may want to have soup for breakfast, especially on a cold rainy day. Soups and eggs make a delicious breakfast even when it is not raining. Here is a vegetable and egg soup recipe, you might like for breakfast or for brunch time. 

Ingredients:

Curry

Turmeric

Ginger

Oregano

Tarragon 

2 Yucca roots

One bunch of cilantros 

Six carrots

One cabbage

One red bell pepper 

1 or 2 hard-boiled eggs

One-half of an onion

1 or 2 lemons

Chicken bouillon or broth

2 Garlic cloves

 

Preparation and Cooking Time:

First, wash and peel the carrots. Second wash and peel the yucca root. Third wash the cabbage and chop it in half. After that in one pot add water. Fourth, add the following spices: Curry, Turmeric, Tarragon, Oregano, and Ginger. 

Fifth, add chicken bouillon. Stir the chicken bouillon and the spices with the water. You can substitute the chicken bouillon for chicken broth or vegetable broth. Nonetheless, continue by slicing the carrots, cabbage, and yucca root. If the yucca root is too hard to slice, boil it separately in water for about twenty minutes.

After twenty minutes, slice the yucca root. The sixth step is to add the carrots, cabbage, and the yucca root. Then, wash the cilantro. Add the cilantro leaves and stir everything while it cooks. Last, use a garlic presser to add the garlic.

While the vegetables are cooked, boil one or more eggs in water. Boil the eggs for ten to fifteen minutes. The seventh step is to use half of an onion. Peel one onion and slice it in half. Slice half of an onion into small cubes. 

Continue adding more water to the vegetables that are boiling in the pot. The eighth step is to get small soup bowls and spoons. Add the vegetable soup to the small bowls. Then, add the raw cubed onions on top of the vegetable soup. Peel one or two hard-boiled eggs and slice it. 

The ninth step is to wash one lemon and slice it. Add the lemon slices on the side. This vegetable egg soup serves two or four people. Serve your vegetable egg soup with juice, coffee, or black tea. Happy Better Breakfast Month!

 

 

 

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Tips to be Faithful

Many relationships have ended in divorce or a trial separation due to unfaithfulness. It always feels like one partner is working harder to make the relationship stronger and to last a lifetime. However, most relationships do not last for multiple reasons. A lack of trust and not feeling secure with oneself makes it difficult to trust someone. One must feel secure, confident, and open to be in a committed relationship. 

First, one must banish their insecurities and improve oneself. Secondly, both partners need to work on their insecurities, trust issues, and other issues that prevent them from being in a committed relationship. Third, being loyal to their partner is something most couples want to achieve to have a long-lasting relationship. Being loyal requires self-control of one's desires and physical attractions. As well as being responsible and knowing that their partner will always be present for them with loyalty. 

Loyalty is an essential part of a committed relationship besides trust. Fourth, communication, listening, and being on the same level. Both partners need to accept and understand one another to the fullest capacity. Also be at the same level of communication in terms of one's desires, dreams, goals, and aspirations. Give support and show gratitude to each other.

 

Avoid a friend's plus relationship, situationship, open relationships with multiple people, and unhealthy relationships. Being faithful requires focusing on your partner's needs and your needs in a committed relationship. Do not let other people come into the relationship to improve your intimacy with your spouse. This leads to comparisons, jealousy, and disrespect for oneself. Loyalty is not being possessive, jealous, or manipulative. 

Instead, one must have full control over one's thoughts, desires, emotions, and behavior. One must control compulsive actions and not follow them. Loyalty is about learning, being creative, and letting oneself be loved by one partner. Also, being able to be in a monogamous relationship does take complete responsibility for each other. One must not feel boredom with each other. 

Boredom with your partner is a common issue no matter how many years you have been together. A lack of creativity, lack of communication, and a lack of listening to your partner often damages intimacy. Faithfulness is challenging but it needs to be a motivator for having a strong relationship. However, loyalty does not mean to be unattached to yourself from your values, morals, and your beliefs. There must be respect for oneself and your partner.

 

Another common issue is hiding things from your partner because of fear. Being afraid of what your partner might tell you, judge you, or make you feel ashamed. Additionally, believing you will not get caught by your partner if you have been unfaithful. Also believing your partner might not understand your struggles. Always communicate how you feel, what your struggles are, and what needs to be improved. 

Practice mindfulness as a couple. Mindfulness lets both of you see what needs to be improved in the relationship. It makes you feel and see what your partner needs to be safe, comfortable, and supportive of you. Furthermore, it makes you attentive and see what your partner conducts in the relationship. Yet, it makes you see, feel, and notice what your partner does not tell you.

Do not blame yourself if your partner is unfaithful. Seek professional counseling if both of you want to save the committed relationship. Do not hide anything from your partner. Often it takes both partners to change themselves for the better and to help strengthen the relationship. Here are website links about being faithful. 

Why is Loyalty in a Relationship Necessary in a Relationship and Tips to Stay Loyal:

https://www.google.com/amp/s/parenting.firstcry.com/articles/magazine-why-is-loyalty-necessary-in-a-relationship-and-tips-to-stay-loyal/%3famp

How to be Faithful in a Relationship:

https://www.marriage.com/advice/relationship/how-to-be-faithful-in-a-relationship/

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Using Mudras in Yoga

When you begin yoga for the first time, you will learn about mudras. Mudras are meaningful for practicing yoga because these hand gestures are about making energy flow in and out of the body. As a beginner, you will learn about the channels of energy which are called chakras. These disks of energy, chakras help balance the body and can also be used for the healing process of the body. Learning about these concepts makes yoga feel more profound, unique, and a comforting process to practice.

There are seven channels of energy that affect your health physically, mentally, and emotionally. It also affects you spiritually. However, there are techniques to help your chakras to heal yourself such as the practice of meditation, yoga, breathing, mudras, mantras, yoga poses, and more aspects for balancing them. Therefore, when you begin yoga, you will learn various hand gestures to open these channels of energy. Each hand gesture has a meaning, and it is vital to use them with consideration when used with yoga poses.

For example, the fist hand gesture is used to let go of anger, fear, or pain. Often being angry might be due to painful memories and physical pain. Mudras are symbolic hand gestures which use the fingers and sometimes the body. When you practice Kundalini Yoga, you will learn about opening the closed energy channels. Additionally, it is necessary to learn about the five elements when it comes to mudras.

The five elements are fire, air, space, earth, and water. Each finger represents the five elements when you do a mudra. Mudras are used during yoga poses, meditation, and for breathing techniques for relaxation. It also assists in clearing your mind and to increase your concentration. You can practice mudras in a sequence. 

Did you know there are three hundred and ninety-nine mudras? As a beginner in using mudras, it is essential to know the purpose of each mudra that is used in yoga. Some mudras are complex and other mudras are easier to master. Do not rush into learning all the mudras in one yoga session. Instead learn basic mudras such as putting your index fingertip to your thumb and keep your other three fingers straight.

Another mudra is by using your last finger to touch the tip of your thumb while keeping your other three fingers straight. It is recommended to focus and do breathing exercises while doing these mudras. One favorite mudra of mine is using your ring finger and pinky finger to touch the tip of your thumb while you keep your other two fingers straight; This hand gesture is done to open your energy channel. The second favorite mudra of mine is by using your thumb, middle finger, and ring finger together while keeping your pinky finger with your index finger straight. This mudra helps you with your digestion. 

Nonetheless, mudras can stimulate the memory aspect of your brain and help reduce anxiety. It reduces your stress and helps you feel more serene. As well as making you slow down and breathe deeply. Mudras can be used for self-care and to increase your focus, intuition, and for clearness of the mind. Here are resources about learning about mudras. 

What Are Mudras-An Ancient Tool Explained-The Joy Within:

What Are Mudras? An Ancient Tool Explained - The Joy Within

Mudras 101: Learn Yoga Hand Gestures-Yoga Journal: 

Mudras 101: Learn Yoga Hand Gestures (yogajournal.com)

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Classical Music for Sleep & Anxiety

It takes time to listen carefully, and attentively, and to be in a comfortable position for classical music. Appreciating classical music might take several weeks to fully understand the compositions and the emotions it conveys. However, listening to classical music is beneficial for anxiety. Listen to classical music for thirty minutes a day. Gradually listen to classical music for one hour.

If you do not know where to begin with your classical music selections, you can start listening to Brahms. Brahms is a well-known classical composer whose music is still played today to reduce anxiety. Also, musical compositions put babies to sleep especially if you play the Lullaby or Cradle Song. Although his classical compositions help calm a baby, his music compositions can relax anyone who feels nervous. It can help you fall asleep, lower your blood pressure, and feel calm. 

Another classical composer is Debussy who was influential to musicians. He created many piano compositions that help reduce anxiety and help you fall asleep. Additionally, there are scientific studies that some classical music can help calm someone with dementia. As well as helping someone with dementia to get adequate sleep. Classical music can slow down the process of dementia. 

Listening to classical music can help you focus on work and when you study new subjects for school. It helps the brain develop space for learning and memory. Furthermore, it increases Dopamine which puts you have a good mood. Yet, there are many benefits to listening to classical music. You can take a walk inside your home while listening to classical music. 

Concentrate on listening to the various instruments. Continue walking silently as you listen to the classical compositions. If you feel tired and want to sleep, lie down on your bed, and listen to Bach. His classical compositions are soothing and help a baby and an adult fall asleep. Classical music is indispensable. 

Take your time to listen to classical music before you study, work, or before you go to sleep. The entire month of September is National Classical Music Month, but you can listen to it throughout the year. There are some classical compositions to listen to while you exercise. While other compositions can be used to prepare your body for sleep. Here are website links about classical music. 

This is Why Music is Good for Your Mental Health-According to Scientists-Classical Music:

This is why music is good for your mental health, according to scientists | Classical Music (classical-music.com)

Classical Music Effects on the Brain and Body-The Healthy: 

Classical Music Effects on the Brain and Body | The Healthy

* Background, font, borders, and pink hearts from PiZap

* Black and White Classical Music Instruments clip art png:

Free Black And White Clipart For Classical Music Clipart - Free to ... - ClipArt Best - ClipArt Best

World Heart Day 2023

World Heart Day Poster Made in World Heart Federation Organization

World Heart Day is on September 29^th. This year’s campaign theme is “Use Heart, Know Heart” which is about taking care of your heart and having a better understanding about heart health. Every year on September 29^th, you can take your time to listen to your heart. Slow down, rest, and exercise for one hour for your blood pressure. Check your blood pressure two times a day at home.

It is recommended to reduce caffeine, alcohol, and red meat. Avoid eating your meals with too much salt. Always check food labels when it comes to sodium, especially if you eat frozen vegetables or television dinners. Another recommendation is to eat more fruits, vegetables, low-fat foods, whole grains, fish, chicken, nuts, and other poultry. A plant-based diet or eating a plant-based meal twice a week may help you with your blood pressure.

Always seek advice from a medical doctor about taking care of your blood pressure and your heart health. If a blood pressure medication is prescribed, take it as directed. Notice any changes in how you are feeling and if you notice any changes in your heart beats. If you experience blurry vision, headaches, dizziness, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, or other symptoms; Contact your health care provider or go to the emergency. Plan to eat healthier and to exercise with the help of your medical doctor, registered nurse, or registered dietician. 

If you have a hard time reducing your caffeine intake, drink water after drinking a caffeinated beverage. Another recommendation is to exercise late afternoon or in the evening to lower your blood pressure. Get resources from your clinic about heart health. You can bring awareness about World Heart Day on September 29^th by making a poster or a social media image with the World Heart Day image maker that World Heart Federation has on their website. After making your image, use #USEHEART on your social media profile.

World Heart Day is a day to encourage everyone to take care of their heart. This day is observed globally. Each year there is a different theme for World Heart Day. Also, you can wear red and use a red-light bulb to light your porch. Here are resources about World Heart Day and taking care of your heart. 

 

Welcome to the World Heart Federation-World Heart Federation Organization:

Welcome to the World Heart Federation (world-heart-federation.org)

When and How to Take Your Blood Pressure-Cleveland Clinic:

When and How to Take Your Blood Pressure – Cleveland Clinic

* World Heart Day Poster made in World Heart Federation Organization. 

Never Too Early, Never Too Late (World Alzheimer's Month 2023)

Courtesy Infographic from Alzheimer's Disease International

“Never too early, never too late” is this year’s World Alzheimer’s Month campaign. World Alzheimer’s Month is every September of each year to bring awareness of the risk factors and to prevent dementia. Also, to reduce the risks if you have been diagnosed with dementia. There are many risk factors that make the onset of dementia such as diabetes, depression, hypertension, being overweight, lack of physical activities, smoking, excessive use of alcohol, and a hearing impairment. Additionally, isolating yourself socially and a head injury can cause dementia.

As well as the recent scientific studies of air pollution. However, it is possible to reduce the exposure of air pollution by using an air purifier in your home. Vacuuming, dusting, and cleaning your home. Get rid of mold in your home. Make sure you have a carbon monoxide alarm and listen to the news about the air quality.

Take a walk or ride a bicycle and limit the use of your vehicle. Carpool or use public transportation if you and your family are going to the same place. Have your windows open and make sure you have plenty of ventilation when you are cleaning your home. Limit your cleaning supplies to less cleaning products or use natural ingredients for cleaning your home. Exercise outside when the air quality is suitable for you to walk, jog, or run. 

Reduce your alcohol consumption by setting a limit of how many drinks you will drink at a family gathering, party, or any other occasion. Aim for one glass of wine or other alcoholic beverage if you are a woman and wish to drink for a special occasion. Only drink two alcoholic beverages if you are a man. Drink your alcoholic beverage slowly and practice mindfulness to help you slow down. Do not feel pressured to drink more alcohol in a social setting.

Sometimes abstaining from alcoholic beverages is the best option, especially if you are the driver. Opting for a non-alcoholic beverage does not prevent you from having a good time at a special family event. Write in a journal about your drinking and how it makes you feel. Consult with your medical provider to help you reduce your alcohol consumption. Join Alcohol Anonymous to help you and your family understand your alcohol consumption.

Wear purple or something purple to support World Alzheimer’s Month. There is also World Alzheimer’s Day every September 21^st of each year. Attend events that support and give resources for Alzheimer’s Month. Be informed about the latest research, educational resources, and share information on social media. Donate to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Offer to help your caretaker especially if your caretaker has exhaustion. Volunteer your time to take care of a loved one who has dementia. Take your loved ones to their medical checkups. Last, get advice from their primary doctor about reducing the risk factors and for taking care of their eyesight. Here are websites with more information about World Alzheimer’s Month and limiting alcohol consumption. 

Actions You Can Take to Reduce Air Pollution-Ground-level Ozone-New England-US EPA:

Actions You Can Take to Reduce Air Pollution | Ground-level Ozone | New England | US EPA

World Alzheimer's Month Resources-Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) (Alzheimer's Disease: International)

World Alzheimer’s Month Resources | Alzheimer's Disease International (ADI) (alzint.org)

Alzheimer's Association-Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia Help:

Alzheimer's Association | Alzheimer's Disease & Dementia Help

11 Ways to Curb Your Drinking-Harvard Health:

11 ways to curb your drinking - Harvard Health

* Courtesy Infographic from Alzheimer's Disease International.

Tips for Sleeping in the Autumn Season

 

Sleeping in the autumn season is considered the best time to sleep better. As the seasons change, the sleep cycle gets affected. Yet, it is only one factor for the sleep cycle to change. The other factors are changes in eating habits, hormonal fluctuations, and room temperatures. However, sleeping in the autumn season takes time to adjust especially if you slept late during the summer nights. 

It is recommended to modify your bedroom each time the season changes. Decorate your bedroom with seasonal items to get in the mood for the holidays. Also, use colors that make you feel inspired and look forward to the weather changes. Make sure your room is not too cluttered with unnecessary items. Sometimes adding seasonal blankets, decorated pillows, or seasonal artwork is all you need to be in the holiday spirit. 

If your room gets too dark during the autumn and winter season, you might want to use a sleep mask instead of blackout curtains. There are other options such as room-darkening curtains that are not too heavy to hang on your windows. Sheer privacy window curtains might help bring some natural light to your room. If you have allergies during this season, it is recommended to sleep on your back with a comfortable pillow. Make sure your pillow is elevated and hypoallergenic. 

Dust your room frequently. Use an air purifier. Take a shower one or two hours before going to sleep. Get an allergy test at your medical clinic to know what you are allergic to. Massage your hands, legs, and feet before going to sleep. 

Apply a mandarin essential oil blend with lavender to help you feel relaxed before going to sleep. If you cannot sleep due to pain, use cedarwood essential oil blend with cypress essential oil. Cypress essential oil might help alleviate your muscle pain. Blend your essential oils with sweet almond oil, coconut oil, or another carrier oil. Another option is to use sandalwood oil with jojoba oil to prepare your body and mind for sleep. 

Assess a small area on your skin before applying it all over your body. Using oils can help you stay warm during the chilly weather months. Yet, if you struggle to sleep because of hot flashes, night sweats, or your room is too warm; You can apply lotions that have a cooling sensation. Make a lotion blend with essential oils such as Palmarosa, Spearmint, Eucalyptus, Lime, or Peppermint. Use a pillow with a cooling material to help you sleep. 

Purchase cooling blankets. If you feel afraid or nervous before going to sleep, write in a sleep diary or journal. Relax with seasonal autumn-scented lotions such as pumpkin, ginger, vanilla, or cinnamon. Think about a relaxing place before going to sleep as you breathe deeply and slowly. Here are websites with more tips to sleep throughout the autumn season. 

Allergies-Post Nasal Drip:

https://www.webmd.com/allergies/postnasal-drip

Fall Time Change and How to Adjust Your Sleep for the Winter:

https://sleepeducation.org/fall-time-change-and-how-to-adjust-your-sleep-for-the-winter/

Autumn Sleep Tips We Swear By at Wake Fit:

https://www.wakefit.co/blog/autumn-sleep-tips-we-swear-by-at-wakefit/

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Self-care for Men (National Self-Care Awareness Month 2023)

 

Self-care for men is an important component for avoiding physical and mental burnout at work. It is also a necessary part of reducing stress at home for better sleep, relaxation, and taking care of yourself. It is more than treating yourself to a comforting meal, a smoothie, and a foot massage. Self-care is about taking care of yourself emotionally, physically, and mentally, and finding solutions to your concerns. Allow yourself one or two days of self-care routine once a week.

One way to do self-care is by cleaning your garage, decluttering items, and painting the rooms that need to be re-painted. Go outside and go hiking on a trail to help you feel connected with nature. Take a fishing trip or learn a new hobby that will make you feel productive. Feel dynamic by swimming, jumping rope, riding a bicycle, or lifting weights for thirty minutes or an hour. Practice aromatherapy and find an essential oil that you like for your skin care needs. 

If you tend to feel anxious or worry more during the evening, you can start journaling. Writing is a simple way to a self-care routine. Self-care helps with anxiety, depression, and worry. Schedule some time to self-care for your emotional health by calming your nervous system and your thought system. Emotions are powerful and often need to be managed with specific activities.

These activities can be breathing, writing, meditation, and mindfulness with self-care. Take your time to eat something new or a food item that you disliked when you were a child. Practice self-care for your limbic system. The limbic system controls your hunger, memory, emotions, and your feelings. If you do not like to do self-care when you are by yourself, you can practice self-care with your partner.

Exercise together by playing basketball or bouncing the basketball into the hoop. Tennis, ping pong, pool, miniature golf, or other sports that you can do with your partner can be beneficial for both of you. Purchase flowers that you both enjoy looking at while you have your tea or coffee hour. Read together positive affirmations. Here are website links with more tips for self-care for men. 

18 Forms of Self-Care for Men-Men's Variety:

18 Forms Of Self-Care For Men (mensvariety.com)

Self-care Tips for Men-A Complete Guide to Feeling Your Absolute Best-The Manuel:

Self-care tips for men: A complete guide to feeling your absolute best - The Manual

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The Benefits of Meditation with Incense (Guest Post)

Courtesy Pexels Photo by Arina Krasnikova

Meditation is an ancient practice that has become popular in recent years. People use it to find inner peace, reduce stress, and improve wellness. Did you know that adding incense to your meditation can boost the experience? Here, we will discuss the benefits of using incense while meditating.

For more ways to find calmness and peace with meditation, check out this article.

Incense has been used in spiritual and religious practices for thousands of years. It has an aroma that can create a calming atmosphere. When used during meditation, it helps to make a sacred space and encourages relaxation. The scent of the smoke can soothe the mind and help it to reflect more deeply.

Using incense during meditation engages multiple senses. As the smell fills the air, it creates a sensory experience. This multi-dimensional approach makes it easier to enter a state of mindfulness.

Each type of incense has its own distinct scent and properties. For example, lavender incense helps to reduce stress and anxiety. Sandalwood incense is believed to increase mental clarity and focus. You can select the incense that works best for you.

Adding incense to your daily routine can elevate your meditation practice. Lighting it signals the start of your dedicated time for self-reflection and growth. This ritualistic aspect creates a sense of sacredness and commitment.

Benefits of Meditation

Meditation has numerous advantages, bringing about positive changes in both the mind and body. It can improve focus, reduce stress, promote emotional well-being, enhance creativity, boost mindfulness, and increase self-awareness. By practicing meditation regularly, individuals can experience improved overall health and a greater sense of inner peace.

Additionally, research has shown that incense can enhance the meditative experience by creating a calming and soothing atmosphere. According to a study conducted by the University of Kyoto, the scent of incense has been found to help relax the mind and deepen the state of meditation, leading to enhanced benefits.

"Mediation with incense: because setting your stress on fire is frowned upon."

Reduced Stress and Anxiety

Meditation is great for calming the mind and reducing stress levels. It activates your body's natural relaxation response. If you practice regularly, it can reduce anxiety and improve mental resilience.

Plus, it cultivates mindfulness so you can cope better with difficult situations. It also makes you self-aware, so you know how to manage stress and anxiety triggers.

Also, meditation has a unique stress-reduction effect. You will feel calm for longer than just during the practice. This lasting effect helps you keep a positive outlook and makes you less vulnerable to stressors.

Pro Tip: Make meditation a regular part of your routine. Set aside a specific time each day. Consistency is key to getting the full benefits.

Improved Focus and Concentration

Meditation enhances focus and concentration. It offers many benefits such as increased mindfulness, attention span, reduced mental clutter, cognitive flexibility, and better self-regulation. Plus, it is natural and accessible for everyone.

Increased Self-Awareness

Meditation practices can lead to greater self-awareness. It helps you understand your thoughts and emotions better. This leads to clarity of your actions, behaviors, and motivations. With increased self-awareness, decisions can be improved, emotional intelligence heightened, and overall well-being boosted.

This awareness involves being in tune with your thoughts and feelings as they come. It allows you to recognize any unhealthy patterns that may be present. You can then choose to let go of these patterns and replace them with positive ones. For instance, someone may be aware of their tendency to be self-critical and opt to be kinder to themselves instead.

Sam Harris, a renowned neuroscientist, and philosopher has been a proponent of meditation for years. During a 2007 retreat, he witnessed its transformative effects on his own life. He noticed his thoughts without any judgement or attachment, leading to a strong sense of self-discovery. This inspired him to include meditation in his daily routine and share its benefits with people through books and lectures.

Incense in Meditation

Incense, a cherished element in the practice of meditation, brings a multitude of benefits.
Firstly, it enhances focus and concentration by stimulating the olfactory senses.
Secondly, it fosters a calming ambiance, easing stress and promoting relaxation.
Thirdly, it aids in deepening mindfulness and grounding the mind in the present moment.
Fourthly, it acts as a ritualistic tool, signaling the beginning and end of a meditation session.

Lastly, incense can evoke spiritual and transcendent experiences, allowing practitioners to connect with their inner selves in a more profound way. Notably, the significance of incense in meditation extends beyond its pleasant fragrance, serving as an important component in the attainment of mental clarity and spiritual growth.

To optimize the benefits of incense in meditation, consider the following suggestions:

• Choose high-quality, natural incense made from pure ingredients to ensure a wholesome and authentic experience.
• Experiment with different scents to find the one that resonates most with your practice and personal preferences.
• Burn the incense in a well-ventilated area, ensuring that the smoke disperses evenly and does not overwhelm the senses.
• Finally, be mindful of fire safety precautions during the burning process.

Incorporating incense into your meditation practice can elevate the experience, allowing for a deeper connection with yourself and the present moment. The ritualistic use of incense adds a sensory dimension, facilitating a more immersive and transformative meditation journey.

The history of incense in meditation is like a bad breakup - it may have started with a burning desire, but now it is just smoke and ashes.

Conclusion

Meditating with incense has many advantages for both the mind and body. It calms, assists with concentration, and lowers stress. The fragrant smell of incense creates a peaceful atmosphere, making meditation more successful.

For centuries, incense has been used in various cultures as a spiritual tool. People believe that its smoke purifies the air and increases spiritual understanding. Inhaling the comforting aroma during meditation can deepen one's connection to oneself and the universe.

Certain types of incense are said to have healing properties. Lavender incense is often used to relax and reduce anxiety. Sandalwood incense is thought to improve mental clarity and focus. Incorporating these scents in your meditation practice can boost its benefits and bring more inner peace.

 

*This article was provided by TheWellnessMindsetBlog.

* Courtesy Pexels Photo by Arina Krasnikova

How to Stop Sextortion & Revenge Porn?

Sextortion and revenge porn has increased throughout the years. The reasons for doing revenge porn are endless no matter the person's gender and identity. Revenge porn continues to harm the reputation, self-esteem, self-confidence, and integrity. It leaves emotional despair which sometimes makes them feel hopeless. In some cases, the emotional pain, sadness, and other circumstances make them attempt suicide. 

Revenge porn is a form of cyberbullying, cyber sexual harassment, and emotional abuse. This vengeance towards an ex-boyfriend or ex-husband often occurs online through emails. Attachments of intimate videos and nude pictures are sent with a message asking for money.  However, there are more motives for doing revenge porn. It is not always a financial motive. 

Vengeance is about making them feel ridiculed, guilty, and feel bad about ending a relationship. It makes them feel it is their fault for breaking up or for getting a divorce with them. Yet, when a relationship ends both individuals are responsible for their actions and decisions. Revenge porn is a serious matter that needs to terminate. It must not continue online for future generations. 

After a breakup or a messy divorce, the ex must have a conversation about nude pictures, intimate videos, and intimate voice recordings. Make sure everything is deleted and there are no backup items. Sign a contract with your ex and seek professional advice from a lawyer. Check your online settings, and social media settings, and cover your webcam. Inspect your cell phone for malware and unknown apps.

Keep electronics in another room when you are undressing or taking a bath. Check your cell phone settings and any suspicious activities on your cell phone. Notice if your Wi-Fi turns on by itself, apps that use your Wi-Fi without your permission, and apps that take over your cell phone device. When in doubt, ask your cell phone provider about malware apps and check for malicious activities. If you are being extorted because of revenge porn save all the evidence.

Report it to the social media platforms. Also, report it to cybercrime and authorities. Get a lawyer who specializes in revenge porn, sextortion, and extortion. In this way, you can protect yourself from any further harm. Seek counseling for advice and your mental health. 

Vengeance towards an ex usually happens because of jealousy, obsession, manipulation, possessiveness, and disappointments. These are not the only reasons, but vengeance porn makes them feel satisfaction when it is done to their ex. Regardless of the reasons, revenge porn is not the solution to feeling gratification about ending a relationship. Revenge porn can happen in a friends-plus relationship as well as in situationships. Be careful with any type of relationship. 

Sextortion and revenge porn has increased among preteens and teenagers. Have a conversation with them about not sharing passwords, personal information, and other information that can be used against them. Also, tell them about appropriate and inappropriate pictures for their social media. Peer pressure, fitting in, and teenage relationships are other topics that need to be discussed. Here are website links about revenge porn and the Domestic Violence Hotline. 

Revenge Porn Guide: 

https://www.vpnmentor.com/blog/revenge-porn-guide/ 

Domestic Violence Support-National Domestic Violence Hotline-The Hotline Organization:

Domestic Violence Support | National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org)

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The Eight Steps to Yoga (National Yoga Awareness Month)

The entire month of September is National Yoga Awareness Month which is a good habit to practice for self-awareness and a better understanding of oneself. There are eight steps to yoga which are also called eight limbs. Knowing these eight steps helps you to connect with yourself. First, forgive yourself and forgive others. Being honest, nonaggressive, contributing, virtuous, and content are the five components that are important to attain.

Each step of yoga teaches oneself to have self-discipline, hygiene, and connect with nature. Although some steps of yoga can be difficult to achieve, it is possible to feel successful. Yoga makes you focus on your body, your breathing, and yourself. It also has spiritual aspects. Yet, practicing yoga makes you practice being in silence and meditating with patience.

The eight limbs of yoga are principles to help you find meaning, purpose, and self-control. Furthermore, you can learn about non-attachment to material objects and integrity. Practicing yoga makes you feel stronger physically and mentally by developing good qualities for yourself. Additionally, you can practice mindfulness with yoga. It teaches you to be persistent, and calmer, and it improves your focus. 

By practicing yoga, you can progress and achieve your personal growth. You will discover yourself in a new facet. The last step to yoga is happiness. Before you reach this stage of yoga, you need to practice self-discipline and observe. Observe your body, your breathing, and your thoughts that keep you occupied. 

Learn yoga postures and practice it barefoot. If it gets too cold where you do your yoga postures, you can wear yoga socks. These socks are not slippery when you do yoga postures on a yoga mat. Some yoga socks have straps. Wear a headband to protect your face from too much sweat.

There are many forms of yoga. However, you can learn about the eight limbs of yoga through classical yoga. This form of yoga guides you to self-awareness. You will be able to have discipline, observe, and focus. Here are the eight steps in a list. 

1. Self-Disciplines: Makes you take it easy and develop good moral values.
2. Observances: Use your senses to concentrate on what needs to be improved or what will make you feel comfortable.
3. Postures: Practice your poses to help you be flexible and have equilibrium.
4. Breathing: Permits to breathe deeper and help you feel instant relaxation. 
5. Non-attachments: To let go of material items and to be less materialistic. This permits you to concentrate on yourself.
6. Focus: Concentrate on how you feel without getting distracted.
7. Meditations: Meditate to feel peaceful and reduce your stress.
8. Bliss: Find happiness within yourself.

Classical yoga takes time to learn and comprehend. This type of yoga helps you transform and find balance in your life. It makes you feel self-confident, self-love, and have a better outlook towards yourself. Consult with your primary doctor before you practice yoga. Here are website links about the eight steps to yoga. 

A Full Guide to the 8 Limbs of Yoga-Alo Moves:

A Full Guide to the 8 Limbs of Yoga — Alo Moves

8 Limbs of Yoga-The Path of Enlightenment in Patanjali's Yoga Sutra-Yoga Journal:

8 Limbs of Yoga: The Path of Enlightenment in Patanjali's Yoga Sutra (yogajournal.com)

* Stretching Clip Art-Clip Art Library:

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* Clip Art-Flexible:

clipart free flexible - Clip Art Library (clipart-library.com)

* Font, background, and borders from PiZap

Pumpkin Coloring Pages with Hearts 2023

Pumpkins come in orange, yellow, white, and green. This vegetable from the squash family can be planted in May or in July. Also, pumpkins require a lot of space and water when it is planted. Nonetheless, pumpkins also make a beautiful decorative display for the autumn season. It is a bright colorful vegetable with healthy nutritional benefits in soups, purees, or breads.

Additionally, pumpkins are fun to color and welcome the autumn season. Today I created three coloring pages of pumpkins with hearts. These coloring pages are free and for your personal use. You can color these pumpkin coloring pages anytime throughout the autumn season. Enjoy!

* Font from LunaPiC

* Font from Photo Collage Editor Maker 

Preparing for an Earthquake (National Preparedness Month 2023)

Preparing for an earthquake is something that you generally do not think about daily. Yet it is necessary to have an evacuation plan and an emergency kit when you are traveling. If you do not know the area that well, ask someone for information about the nearest shelter and the nearest hospital. Make sure you have plenty of gasoline in your automobile. Make and keep a list of all your medications.

Additionally, have a bag or a backpack with your prescription medication, first aid kit, snacks, small juice boxes, and other items you might need. Carry water in a reusable bottle and have gallons of water in your automobile. Pack an extra pair of shoes, work gloves, a whistle, a flashlight, batteries, and a portable charger for charging your cell phone. Furthermore, have a car charger for charging your cell phone and an extra battery for your cell phone. Use a battery-operated radio to be informed about any current news and information.

Make and keep a list of emergency contacts. If you are at work, have emergency safety goggles, antiseptic lotion, hand sanitizers, bandages, a bullhorn, baby wipes, and other items for any situation that might occur after an earthquake. Plan an evacuation plan with all your employees. Know the exit areas. As well as having a list of all the employees’ names, addresses, and telephone numbers to provide to paramedics.

Practice going down the stairs and in a calm manner. Do not rush the earthquake drill. Know how to do CPR and First Aid in case someone gets hurt, falls, or gets injured. Make sure to have enough supplies for three or seven days in case you must sleep in your office. Purchase a medical alert tag. Have a big box of trash bags and a bucket or a portable toilet in case of an emergency. 

Do not panic. Tell yourself that everything will be passable. Download an emergency app on your cell phone. Carry extra blankets, pillows, socks, and warm clothing to keep you warm at night. Here are websites with more information and tips for National Preparedness Month. 

5 Ways to Charge Your Phone in an Emergency-Make Use:

5 Ways To Charge Your Phone In An Emergency (makeuseof.com)

Earthquake Safety-Earthquake Preparedness-Red Cross:

Earthquake Safety | Earthquake Preparedness | Red Cross

Office Disaster Kit Supply Checklist-All Business:

Office Disaster Kit Supply Checklist - AllBusiness.com

*Rain Clip Art Png:

Rain Clip art - rain png download - 550*514 - Free Transparent Rain png Download. - Clip Art Library (clipart-library.com)

* Earthquake House Clip Art Png:

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