THE POWER OF GRATITUDE AND POSITIVE THOUGHTS
In these trying days, one can easily lose sight of what is good in life. We have been isolated from our loved ones and it seems like the world and life as we knew it are spiraling out of control.
These challenging times can make you feel down, resulting in symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mood-related issues. You can become unproductive, feel unmotivated and just plain tired of it all.
Why does this happen? We tend to get ourselves into a rut. We feed ourselves negative thoughts and by doing that, we attract that negativity.
What can you do to fix it?
It’s all about changing your mindset and focusing on the things that you are grateful for. It takes practice to come up with new ones everyday but I promise you that you will feel so much better if you try to develop this skill.
Here are some simple ways to find your joy, even in difficult times.
PAY ATTENTION TO THE LITTLE THINGS
When life is getting you down, pay attention to the little things that make your life brighter.
Look for small things that you enjoy like:
The taste of your favorite ice cream cone on a hot summer’s day
A song that brings back fond memories
The feeling of being with close friends
Holding a small child
A nature walk on a beautiful day
The warmth of the sun on your face
Each morning before I get out of bed I take a few moments to close my eyes and remember things that I am grateful for. I set my intention for the day to make it the best day that I can and be thankful that I have the opportunity to do so.
Stay positive, enjoy your memories, make new ones. Happiness is a great immune builder!
TWENTY REASONS WHY SUGAR RUINS YOUR HEALTH
We all enjoy sweet desserts. As children, it was usually a reward for being good or a special treat on holidays. In my family, my mom was an incredible baker and often made us sweet treats that were irresistible.
We were not aware then the effects that processed sugar was having on our bodies. Surely, if you eat a lot of sweets weight gain is usually the result, but few of us really know about the other harmful effects of sugar in our diet.
Here is a list of twenty reasons why sugar ruins your health:
· Sugar can suppress your immune system. We need healthy immune systems more than ever during this pandemic.
· Sugar interferes with the absorption of calcium and magnesium. These are critical for bone health.
· Sugar can weaken eyesight.
· Sugar can cause hypoglycemia.
· Sugar can cause a rapid rise of adrenaline levels in children.
· Sugar contributes to obesity. The rate of obesity in our country is soaring and leading to an increase in type 2 diabetes and heart related issues.
· Sugar can cause arthritis.
· Sugar can cause heart disease and emphysema.
· Sugar can contribute to osteoporosis.
· Sugar can increase cholesterol.
· Sugar can lead to both prostate cancer and ovarian cancer.
· Sugar can contribute to diabetes.
· Sugar can cause cardiovascular disease.
· Sugar can make our skin age by changing the structure of collagen.
· Sugar can produce a significant rise in triglycerides.
· Sugar can increase the body’s fluid retention.
· Sugar can cause headaches, including migraines.
· Sugar can cause depression.
· Sugar can contribute to Alzheimer’s Disease.
· In intensive care units, limiting sugar saves lives.
SUGAR QUALIFIES AS AN ADDICTIVE SUBSTANCE FOR TWO REASONS:
Even a small amount creates the desire for more.
2. Suddenly quitting causes withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, mood swings, cravings and fatigue.
Want to learn how to replace processed sugar with healthier options? Stop cravings? Lose weight and gain more energy? I am here to help. Contact me in the Community Tab on the website homepage.
It’s a new day. You only have one life. It’s time to live it well.
Mary McAlary, CHHC
Adapted from 146 Reasons Why Sugar is Ruining Your Health by Nancy Appleton, PhD