Category: Preservation

Book Review: Simple Happiness – 52 Easy Ways to Lighten Up by Jim Ryan

Maintenance / Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body

Simple Happiness – Spreading Joy One Day at a Time

“Simple Happiness” by Jim Ryan serves as a beacon of light for those lost in the complexities of life, yearning to reclaim the simplicity of joy. Each of the 52 ways to elevate your mood and perspective is a testament to the belief that happiness isn’t as elusive as it seems—it’s merely a few thoughtful changes away.

Ryan’s methodology is grounded in the day-to-day; it illuminates the overlooked corridors of comfort within our reach. From the power of a smile to the underestimated art of listening, his examples resonate deeply, often masked as mundane interactions. This book breaks down happiness into manageable pieces—bite-sized wisdom for the soul, digestible weekly or daily.

The section of compassion, beautifully illustrated through Ryan’s unreciprocated greeting to his neighbor, touched me personally. It’s a poignant reminder that compassion isn’t about what we expect, but accepting others as they are. Such offerings of goodwill ripple outwards and, ultimately, reflect the very essence of what it means to be human.

May this book find a place on your shelf—from the optimist seeking affirmation to the pessimist looking for a spark. Ryan’s personable and practical advice transcends the boundaries of age, culture, and status. I believe families, professionals, and students alike can benefit from these 52 simple yet profoundly effective stratagems.

With a style that’s both conversational and convincing, “Simple Happiness” becomes more than a read—it’s an experience. I recommend savoring each section to digest the accompanying wisdom fully. Jim Ryan has not only captured the essence of joy but also wrapped it in the warmth of everyday life.

In today’s fast-paced world, Ryan’s book is an essential tool in fostering an environment of positivity and contentment. To those willing to invest a few minutes each day or week, “Simple Happiness” offers hopeful clarity in return. Reading this book could very well be the gentle nudge your happiness has been waiting for.

Get your copy of Jim’s book here.

Staying Connected: Fun Ways to Keep in Touch With Far Away Family and Friends

Blog / Preservation / Sound Mind

Audio for post: Staying Connected: Fun Ways to Keep in Touch With Far Away Family and Friends

In a world that’s becoming increasingly digitized, it’s much easier to stay in touch with people regardless of where they are in the world. However, it can be quite difficult to find creative ways to consistently keep in touch with those loved ones that live far away. There are so many ways to have fun and meaningful interactions with them, all from the comfort of your own home. In this blog, we’ll discuss five unique ideas that will work well for anyone who wants to keep in touch with loved ones that may be miles away.

Virtual Game Nights

One of the easiest and most popular ways to stay connected with friends and family is through game nights. In the age of technology, we have plenty of options for virtual gatherings. For example, you could use a platform like Zoom or Skype to connect with loved ones. Afterwards, make use of websites that feature tons of online board games, like Board Game Arena , Table Top Simulator, or Tabletopia. The possibilities are endless, and it’s a fun way to spend quality time with those you may be missing.

Online Book Club

This is another great way to connect with loved ones who live farther away. You can start up an online book club where all members can read the same book and discuss it together virtually. This is a great way to bond and have conversations with your loved ones over shared interests. Use websites like Goodreads, and Amazon Book Clubs to keep track of your progress and share what you’re reading with friends and family.

Virtual Movie Nights

Movie streaming websites like Netflix, MAX, and Amazon Prime now offer features that allow multiple users to stream the same title simultaneously, so you can easily watch the same movie in real-time with loved ones from afar. You can even use the chat feature on these platforms to communicate throughout the movie. This is a fun way to bond over shared interests and enjoy something together, even if you’re not in the same room.

Recommendations:

Netflix

MAX

Online Classes or Workshops

You could also consider signing up for online classes or workshops together with your loved ones. You could even organize a virtual art class where you all paint the same picture and share with each other later. Websites like Udemy have a vast library of courses available, so there’s something for everyone. You could brush up on a new skill or hobby, and have fun sharing your progress and learning with each other.

Pen Pals

Sometimes, the simple ways of connection are the best. With everything happening online, it’s easy to forget the joy of handwritten communication. Online pen pal programs, like PenPal World or InterPals, provide a great platform to meet new people. With traditional letters or even email correspondence, you could stay connected with loved ones that live far away. And who doesn’t love receiving a handwritten letter, filled with warmth and affection?

Recommendations:

Stationary Sets

Best pens

In conclusion, there’s no excuse to not be able to keep in touch with your loved ones no matter how far away they are. Video calls and texts are great, but sometimes, it’s good to add personal touch and fun to our interactions. Whether it’s enjoying a good book together or trying out a new hobby together, there are plenty of unique and fun ways you could stay engaged and connected with loved ones, wherever they are in the world. With these tips, distance can absolutely remain just a number.

This is just for fun!

The Benefits of Obsession and How to Harness It

Preservation / Sound Mind

When you hear the word “obsession”, negative connotations might pop into your mind. However, obsession is not always a bad thing. In fact, obsession can be a powerful force for creativity, innovation, and success. If you harness your obsession and channel it in a positive direction, it can become a powerful tool for reaching your goals. In this article, we will explore how obsession can be good and how to make it work for you. Let’s begin the benefits of obsession.

Obsession can Lead to Creativity

Many artists, writers, and musicians have admitted that their best work comes from a place of obsession. When you become consumed with an idea or a project, it can drive you to create something truly magical. It forces you to think outside of the box and take risks that you may not have taken otherwise. Obsession can be a powerful catalyst for creativity, and it often leads to groundbreaking work.

Obsession Can Lead to Success

Many successful people credit their success to their obsession. When you are obsessed with something, you are willing to put in the time, effort, and energy needed to achieve your goals. You are willing to work harder and longer than anyone else. This level of dedication can lead to significant success in your career, personal life, or other areas of your life.

Obsession can Help You Focus

When you are obsessed with something, it can help you tune out distractions and focus on what really matters. It can help you prioritize your time and energy, so you are working towards your goals instead of getting bogged down by other tasks. Obsession can give you a laser-like focus that will help you achieve your goals faster and more efficiently.

Obsession Can Energize You

When you are obsessed with something, it can give you a surge of energy and motivation like nothing else. You feel passionate and alive, and this can be incredibly energizing. This surge of energy and motivation can help you tackle big challenges and overcome obstacles that may have once seemed insurmountable.

Tips for Harnessing your Obsession

If you want to harness your obsession and make it work for you, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure that you are channeling your obsession in a positive direction. Set clear goals and work towards them diligently. Second, make sure that you are taking care of yourself. Obsession can be all-consuming, but it’s essential to make time for self-care, so you don’t burn out. Third, surround yourself with people who support you and believe in your goals. Finally, be willing to adapt and change course as needed. Sometimes, obsession can blind us to other opportunities, so it’s essential to take a step back and re-evaluate.

Obsession can be a powerful tool that can lead to creativity, success, focus, and energy. If you harness your obsession and channel it in a positive direction, it can become a significant asset in achieving your goals. Remember to take care of yourself and to surround yourself with people who support you along the way. With these tips, you can turn your obsession into an incredible force for good.

Other great Articles:

Grounding with Mother Earth: 7 Surprising Benefits of Earthing

Why We Meditate

Grounding with Mother Earth: 7 Surprising Benefits of Earthing

Blog / Healing / Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body

Our ancestors lived in harmony with nature and constantly connected with the earth. However, progress and technological advancements led us far away from our natural environment. Nowadays, we spend most of our time indoors and disconnected from the earth. But now, science proves that re-connecting with the earth holds many health benefits. This is what we call “earthing” or “grounding”. Earthing is a simple and effective way to support a healthy lifestyle, and in this blog, we will look at the top 7 benefits of grounding with Mother Earth.

Reduces Inflammation

Inflammation is the root cause of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Studies show that grounding can reduce inflammation by neutralizing free radicals and increasing antioxidants in the body. Simply put, earthing is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent.

Improves Sleep Quality

Grounding lowers electrical charges in the body and synchronizes circadian rhythms, or the body’s internal clock. This means getting grounded can help you sleep better at night and wake up feeling rested and refreshed.

Enhances Mental Health

Stress and anxiety are rampant in modern society. Grounding reduces stress in the body by lowering cortisol levels and increasing serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone in the brain. Earthing has also been shown to help with depression and PTSD symptoms.

Boosts Immune System

Grounding can actively boost your immune system by increasing the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting infections and diseases. When you are grounded, your body has more energy available to fight against infections.

Relieves Pain and Inflammation

As we mentioned earlier, grounding has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. Thus, grounding has been found to be effective in relieving pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, menstrual pain, and other chronic conditions.

Regulates Blood Sugar Levels

Earthing balances the nervous system and helps to regulate the blood sugar levels. It also provides a calming effect on the body, which lowers the stress hormones that can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.

Balances Hormones and Improves Fertility

Grounding has been known to balance hormones and improve fertility in women. The stress-reducing effect of grounding can help regulate menstrual cycles and improve reproductive function.

In conclusion, earthing or grounding is a simple and effective way to enhance your overall health and wellbeing. From reducing inflammation to improving sleep quality, grounding with Mother Earth can help you feel better both physically and mentally. So, take some time to step outside and connect with the earth today. Your body will thank you for it!

Here is a great way to ground with Mother Earth and meditate, Meditation for beginners.

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How to Meditate – for Beginners

Healing / Maintenance / Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body / Therapeutic

If you’ve ever wondered how to meditate but weren’t sure where to start, then this blog post is for you. Meditation is an ancient practice that has been used for centuries to relax both your mind and body. It can also help to improve your emotional well-being and mental clarity.

Good News!

The good news is that anyone can learn how to meditate, regardless of experience or background. All it takes is a few simple steps and soon enough you’ll be on your way to reaping the many benefits that meditation has to offer.

Step One

The first step is to find a comfortable spot where you won’t be disturbed. This could be anywhere from your bedroom floor to a park bench. Once you’ve selected your spot, sit in a comfortable position with your legs crossed and your back straight.

Step Two

The second step is to close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Take deep breaths through the nose and slow exhales through the mouth. Feel each breath as it enters and leaves your body, letting any distracting thoughts drift away.

Step Three

Finally, allow yourself to relax and let go. Don’t focus on anything but instead stay open and spacious, allowing yourself to just be present in the moment.

Now that you know the basics of how to meditate, it’s time to start reaping its many benefits! With regular practice, you’ll soon start to notice positive changes in your physical and mental health. From improved focus to reduced stress levels, you’ll be amazed at the effects meditation can have on your wellbeing.

This Post is for you:

Why We Meditate

Power of Music on Mood and Health

Eat This for Brain Function

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Twitter

My Favorite Meditation:

Why We Meditate

Healing / Maintenance / Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body / Therapeutic

Meditation is a practice of mindfulness that involves focusing the mind on the present moment while letting go of all thoughts and worries. This ancient practice has been used for centuries to help people find inner peace and balance. In today’s fast-paced world, it can be even more beneficial, as it helps us to take a break from our busy lives and reconnect with ourselves and our environment. Let’s dive into why we meditate.

Why Meditation is Good for You

The benefits of meditation on both mind and body are numerous. When we take the time to meditate, it can help us to cultivate a heightened sense of focus and concentration, as well as reduce stress levels. Our emotional wellbeing and mental clarity will also improve from regular practice.

At a physical level, meditation can have a positive impact on our bodies. It can lower blood pressure, improve immune function, and even reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. In addition, meditation can help to enhance our physical performance by increasing stamina and improving breathing techniques.

Overall, the benefits of meditation are vast and diverse. If you’re looking for a way to relax your mind and body, it’s worth giving this ancient practice a try. From improved focus to reduced stress levels, you’ll be amazed at the effects meditation can have on your well-being.

Check out these posts:

How to Meditate – for Beginners

Power of Music on Mood and Health

Eat This for Brain Function

Join us Socially:

Twitter

My Favorite Meditation:

Eat This for Brain Function

Preservation / Sound Mind

These eight nutrients are best for brain function.

The researchers narrowed down the 32 nutritional substances provided by a traditional Mediterranean diet to several that appear to play key roles in healthy brain aging, enhanced cognitive performance, functional brain network efficiency, executive function, and general intelligence. These include omega-3 fatty acids, found in significant amounts in fatty fish and fish oils; omega-6 fatty acids, found in vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, poultry products and whole grains; lycopene, found in red pigmented plant foods such as tomatoes and watermelon; carotenoids found in yellow and orange pigmented foods such as sweet potatoes, winter squash and carrots; vitamin D, found mostly in fatty fish and fortified dairy products and dairy substitutes such as soy milk; and the B Vitamins riboflavin, found in dairy products and enriched grains; folate found in dark leafy greens and other vegetables and fruit; and B12, found in animal products such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, and fortified breakfast cereals. A subset of the original study participants returned two years later for follow-up and similar nutrient patterns were confirmed.

It should be stated that this study relied on actual blood tests and MRIs for the results instead of cognitive testing and self report surveys.

Read all about it here.

Depression and Vegetarianism and Veganism

Preservation / Sound Mind / Strong Body

There are a whole slew of research linking not eating meat to depression, but questions still remain about why.

Is it predisposition? People who are predisposed to depression also select vegetarian/vegan status?

Is it social? Being vegan or vegetarian limits people’s social opportunities, thus driving depression?

Is it chemical? Something in the lack of animal protein contributes to the depression?

What ever the cause, more research is necessary before ruling out vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

Read the research here. 

Cure Your Phone Addiction With A New Phone…… Hmmmmmm

Preservation / Sound Mind

So, this happened, A new phone that can cure phone addiction. Sounds unbelievable? Absolutely, But don’t take my word for it. Try it yourself and let me know below.

Here’s the skinny. This small basic phone with no GPS, music, or apps will be carried in addition to your smart phone. All it does, phone calls and basic texting. This is how to ween yourself off phone addiction.

We’ve all become so absorbed in the blinking, bleeping monsters in our pockets that even the gadgetmakers have started dispensing salves for excessive phone use. One of their more out-there “solutions”: Start carrying two phones. There’s a certain counter­intuitive logic at work—shouldn’t we have fewer phones? Maybe. But out of this existential panic, those who created our screen dependency and those who are committed to helping us fight it have come up with a tantalizing (and tantalizingly profitable) fix. It’s not about getting off your phone, per se. It’s about getting on a different one.

This is the phone that will help you live your best life—a life in which Instagram, Slack, Facebook, and email are relegated to the back of your mind. Barely larger than a credit card, this phone relaxes your two-handed grip and liberates more of your pocket real estate. That other phone lures you into a Chinese finger trap. This gadget sets you free.

Read more about it here.

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