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Inspiration Archives - Page 2 of 14 - QuantumStones.com

Category: Inspiration

  • Why The CBD Industry Is Booming In 2021?

    Why The CBD Industry Is Booming In 2021?

    The current year 2021 has been quite a rollercoaster ride for industries. Some markets are still recovering from the lockdowns and recessions in 2020. On the other hand, health and wellness continue to receive continual growth. The cannabis market,  specifically CBD, is growing at an expansive rate as CBD is gradually making it into mainstream markets.

    You will find a CBD product almost everywhere, right from a dispensary shelf to a common ingredient in beauty products. As companies are making fair use of the therapeutic benefits of CBD, there is a high probability of witnessing a boom in investment and growth of the industry. Which, in turn, will pave the way for some groundbreaking innovations too. Let us explore the CBD industry’s anticipated trends and what they can bring for investors and innovators.

    CBD Industry

    1. CBD As A Fastest-growing Industry

    Presently CBD is legal in many parts of the world. The alternative uses of CBD as a medical compound were more of a consumer-driven wave. Surprisingly it was a bottom-up approach where users advocated the products through various media channels. It was later that the scientific investigations started pouring in, clarifying the potential benefits of the compound. As the stigma around the use began fading away, the industry experienced a massive influx of users.

    So after years of trials, CBD as a legit medication has got social acceptance and has made it into the list of valuable compounds. Also, FDA approval for its usage in treating specific conditions has become a significant factor in diminishing consumer scepticism. Not only for human use, but CBD is also equally popular among pet owners. People now buy CBD for their cats and dogs from legit sources to help treat conditions like pain, anxiety and arthritis. As more users jump on the CBD bandwagon, the industry is experiencing steady growth. Read more to get all the details about it.

    CBD appeals as a holistic wellness product; it has penetrated large-scale sectors like the fitness, wellness, and beauty industry. So, the opportunity cascaded for investors to deploy maximum investment in rapidly growing markets, and the industry continued to flourish.

    CBD Industry

    2. More to Product Innovation and Online Market

    CBD has become an evident popular adieu to its therapeutic properties. In places where it was challenging to source products, the online market has bridged gaps. End-users can now access high-quality products directly from the manufacturers. There is a consistent demand for sophisticated products.

    The online marketing restriction and advertising control did not deter the online growth of the CBD industry. Marketers are coming up with innovative product designs that appeal to specific segments of consumers. The micro-niches emerged in the past couple of years, and investors are yet to exploit them in 2021.

    • CBD as a fitness supplement
    • CBD lubricants and ointments
    • CBD for pets
    • CBD to treat specific Diseases

    The innovative advertisement methods such as influencer marketing and value creation through information and blogs have been a driving force in creating long-term customer value, which ultimately pours into sales.

    CBD vaping industry is another sector that appeals to the youth crowd. CBD allures a varied customer base. With a steady CAGR of 21.2%, the industry expects stable distribution channels in the future. With each category, CBD is alluring a broader customer base, creating a solid foothold in multiple sectors.

    The latest payment mode advancements, such as cryptocurrency and blockchain, have diminished CBD’s financial risk. Now buyers can buy, sell, move cash and invest in the cannabis sector without government speculation. Alternative banking options and financial aids have revolutionized the CBD industry, and the trend will continue to grow.

    3. Future Scope in Research And Development

    CBD interacts with the innate endocannabinoid system in a unique way which brings several benefits to humans. The CBD industry is at its nascent stage, which leaves scope for research and development. Most of the scientific work in the CBD sector is either animal study or secondary studies. There is a lot of range for its preliminary studies and clinical trials in treating conditions like stress, pain, and inflammation management.

    The success of the present-day market players and tremendous industry growth signifies that users cannot get enough CBD products and has more scope. Chances of product development are suitable for CBD as it has a strong product profile of anti-oxidants, terpenes, and minerals that appeals to the masses. Besides this, the latest developments such as nanoencapsulation of CBD have propelled beverage industries to open new commercializing avenues.

    CBD Industry

    4. Fewer Restrictions Means More Growth

    The past couple of years mainly were about state-specific rules. Although FDA approves free use of hemp-driven CBD, legalization measures at the federal level are unclear. With uniform laws, there will be less black marketing and illegal practices.

    The increasing interest from Congress is a wave of good news for the industry. Experts believe that the latest changes in the White House can be significant for the cannabis industry. President Biden’s promise to reschedule cannabis leave canna lovers in high hopes. If CBD potential meets government support, the industry will be home to innovation and growth.

    The Bottom Line

    Legalization and technological advancements are coherently working to bring growth to the CBD industry. Despite global turbulences, the CBD industry shows optimistic projections. So experts categorize it as a ‘recession-proof industry. However, the much-deserved growth of the CBD sector is possible only after legal reforms and investment in R&D. Following recent developments, it is pretty likely that CBD will continue to grow in the future.

  • Activities to Boost Your Inner Wellness

    Activities to Boost Your Inner Wellness

    According to the American Institute of Stress, 77% of people experience stress that impacts their physical health. Life has many external factors that can cause a strain on your inner wellness every day. Unfortunately, that can quickly cause issues for your physical and mental health, creating a vicious cycle of more stress, more worry, more pain, and a lack of well-being.

    While stress and strain are unavoidable, there are things you can do each day to boost your inner wellness. Finding some respite from the hustle and bustle of the day can improve your mood and sense of peace.

    As a bonus, plenty of those hobbies can also give your physical and mental health a boost, too.

    So, what are the best hobbies for boosting your inner wellness? Let’s cover a few of them so you can get started as soon as possible. The more you focus on your inner wellness, the more appreciative you’ll be of the life you’re living.

    Inner Wellness

    Explore the Outdoors

    There are countless mental and physical health benefits to spending more time outside, including:

    • Lower blood pressure
    • Reduced stress
    • Improved cardiovascular health
    • Increased self-esteem
    • Lower anxiety
    • Boosted energy

    Simply sitting outside on your front porch for 30 minutes a day can improve your inner wellness. But, you’ll feel even better if you take part in different outdoor activities. For some, that might be starting up a fitness routine. Working out outdoors is incredibly motivating and can encourage you to set new wellness goals.

    For others, activities like camping, spending a day at the beach, fishing, or even going for a hike with your family can improve your inner wellness. Whatever you decide to do, make sure you’re taking care of your physical health by hydrating, wearing sunscreen, and packing the right gear for each specific activity.

    One of the great things about getting outdoors is that you’ll practically never run out of things to do. Don’t be afraid to try different activities to find what truly speaks to you.

    Inner Wellness

    Cultivate Creativity

    Creativity reduces anxiety and symptoms of depression. It can help to reduce your stress levels, improve your focus, and boost your overall wellness. Any activities that allow you to cultivate creativity and use your imagination will be great for your wellbeing and might even inspire you to branch out into different creative outlets.

    You don’t have to have any prior skills or experience to let your creativity shine. Think about the things you’re interested in, and take a chance. For example, if you love reading comic books, have you ever considered writing one of your own? You can build a world from the ground up, bringing stories to life that stem from your imagination.

    If writing isn’t your thing, try to mentally soothe and rebuild yourself through visual creativity. Do certain scenes capture your eye throughout the day? Consider investing in a professional camera and getting into landscape photography. Or, let your artistic abilities come through by drawing or painting your surroundings.

    Do you love music? Try learning an instrument and spend time playing each day until you’re comfortable with it. There are dozens of little ways to increase your creativity each day. Try things like:

    • Sampling a new food
    • Writing from a prompt
    • Taking a color break
    • Giving yourself different opportunities to be inspired

    It doesn’t matter the creative outlet you choose. What matters is allowing your creativity to spill over into something you love. Your mind and body will be grateful when you do.

    Inner Wellness

    Take the Time to Travel

    The COVID-19 pandemic changed the travel industry for over a year. Now that things are starting to get back to normal, it’s a perfect excuse to do some exploring. Traveling is a fantastic way to change your spiritual outlook. You can experience and see things from a completely new perspective.

    Exploring different cultures, locations, food, and customs can provide a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction that you may not have even known you were missing. Traveling allows you to step out of your comfort zone, which is exactly what some people need to reach their full potential.

    You don’t necessarily need to hop on a plane and head to a different country to boost your inner wellness (though that’s always a great option!). You can find inspiration, relaxation, and peace just by going somewhere new. Consider taking a road trip or traveling to a state you’ve never been to before. Getting out of your daily routine and comfort zone might be challenging, at first. But, when you open your heart and mind to new experiences and new places, you’ll see how much they can add to your life.

    Boosting your inner wellness is about finding things that offer fulfillment. Stress, worry, and the strain of life will always be there. But, when you take care of your inner wellness, they’ll have less of an impact on the way you live your life.

  • Keeping Positive and Productive Through A Virtual Education Era

    Keeping Positive and Productive Through A Virtual Education Era

    Whether you’re a student or a teacher, education can be stressful and difficult. From managing tuition payments to unruly students, it can be hard to keep a positive and productive attitude. Add to these challenges a widespread virtual shift brought about by a global pandemic, and the results can be overwhelming. 

    But maintaining positivity and productivity in the era of virtual education is still possible. From taking the time to recognize your achievements to showing yourself some compassion, you can boost your mental health and potential for success even as you navigate new challenges. 

    Follow these strategies for a positive and productive approach to your virtual education. 

    Show Self-Compassion

    First, pat yourself on the back. Continuing your education is a difficult feat in any environment. Similarly, attempting to teach students is hard even when you have physical proximity on your side. Managing a virtual classroom is an entirely different ballgame, one that requires new skills, coping strategies, and approaches. In short, you’re going to make mistakes and you’re going to need breaks.

    Keeping your mind, spirit, and body in a productive state requires self-compassion. Virtual education is difficult, and we all need time to step away and reflect on our individual needs. Issues like Zoom dysmorphia are common, and educators are becoming increasingly aware of them. If you need to step away, turn off your camera, or take a break, allow yourself to do so. If you’re an educator, this may not always be possible, but you can still adjust your screen to keep yourself out of focus.

    Practicing self-love and compassion is always a good idea. Learn to recognize things you love about yourself and try to give yourself a break when you need it. You don’t have to be guilty about a mental reset, as it can help you return to your work more productive than before.

    Vrtual Education

    Recognize that You Aren’t Alone

    Additionally, keep in mind that you are not alone in your struggles. As an educator or as a student, millions of others are out there struggling with the same Zoom fatigue, dysmorphia, and productivity challenges that you are. Remind yourself of this important fact and then reach out for community support. 

    This can be even easier with a thorough understanding of classroom technology. Platforms like Zoom and other popular classroom tools often have chat features and collaboration opportunities for inviting discussion. As an educator, you can open up these tools for student support. Alternatively, you can find other virtual message boards and groups where you can share concerns and questions with your peers. 

    Vrtual Education

    Find Gratitude

    The stress of pursuing or providing an education can sometimes be overwhelming. Fortunately, something as simple as maintaining a sense of gratitude for people, hobbies, and resources in your life can make a huge difference in your stress levels. In fact, studies have shown that gratitude decreases levels of stress-inducing cortisol in the brain. In turn, you can reduce your risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression. 

    But finding gratitude in college or a teaching position isn’t always easy. Compounding due dates, work schedules, social lives, and more can sometimes stand in the way of the things that are going right for us. Gratitude can be best found by taking time out to think, reflect, and relax. Hanging out with friends or journaling — then allowing yourself a sense of gratitude for the resulting positive feelings — can go a long way towards restoring your positivity and productivity.

    Explore new methods of journaling and reflection to help you find things you can truly feel gratitude towards. Mind-mapping software, for example, can help you brainstorm and even collaborate with others to creatively illustrate positive elements of your life. Using these tools can be a great exercise to practice gratitude on an individual or classroom basis.

    Vrtual Education

    Get Outside

    Finally, spend some time outdoors. Research has shown that spending time outside helps relax the prefrontal cortex of the brain and thus reduces the repetitive, anxious thoughts that can lead to a negative mood. Anything from 20-30 minute walks per day to consistent outings to the woods can help refresh your mental state and put your whole world in perspective. 

    But finding the time to be out in nature can sometimes be difficult — especially when juggling and education amidst all of life’s demands. Fortunately, the health benefits of getting outside sometimes don’t even require you to actually be outside. A Scientific Reports study showed that simply listening to artificial nature sound can help you refocus your brain on the world around you and get out of problematic mental loops.

    Regardless of your schedule and environment, you can add some form of an outdoor regimen to your daily routine and reduce the burden on your brain. Virtual education can be great for providing the flexibility you need to get outside. Whether that means bringing your laptop to a community park with nearby WiFi connections or listening to nature sounds while stuck in your dorm, nature can help you destress.

    Vrtual Education

    Staying Productive and Positive

    We won’t sugarcoat it — virtual education is often frustrating and stressful. However, by taking time out for self-compassion, community, gratitude, and nature, you’ll be able to approach your work and studies again with a positive and productive mindset. Apply these strategies in your own education or teaching experiences and be willing to reach out and help other struggling virtual students.

    With each other’s help, we can cut the stress and stay true to ourselves.

  • How CBD Helps You Lose Weight?

    How CBD Helps You Lose Weight?

    According to the World Health Organization, close to 2 billion people aged 18 years or older were overweight in 2016. Out of this number, 650 million people were obese. 

    Now, you could be wondering what it means to be overweight and obese. 

    Although ‘obesity’ and ‘overweight’ are often used interchangeably, these terms do not exactly denote the same thing. Generally, an adult is considered overweight if their body mass index (BMI) is equal to or greater than 25. On the other hand, you’re obese if your BMI is equal to or greater than 30. Body mass index is a weight-for-health index calculated by dividing your weight (in kilograms) by the square of your height (in meters). 

    It’s worth noting that the rules for calculating obesity and overweight differ by age. The formula mentioned above applies only to adults over 18 years. 

    All in all, there’s no pride in being overweight or obese. This is why it’s necessary to prevent these conditions from developing or treat them as soon as possible. 

    This post shall highlight the role of CBD in helping you lose weight.

    Lose Weight

    Causes and Treatments of Obesity

    The primary cause of obesity and overweight is the imbalance between calories consumed and calories expended. Two factors can trigger this imbalance. The first is an increased intake of foods that are high in calories, fats, and sugars. And secondly, a marked reduction in physical activity. 

    If untreated, obesity and overweight might increase your chances of developing cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease, hypertension, and stroke. Diabetes is another chronic disease associated with an unchecked increase in weight. Medical researchers have also established a close link between obesity and certain cancers like breast cancer and ovarian, liver, kidney, prostate, colon, and endometrial cancer. Obesity and being overweight might also open you up to musculoskeletal disorders like osteoarthritis. 

    Regardless of their far-reaching health implications, it’s reassuring to know that obesity and overweight are preventable. Some of the preventive measures include limiting the intake of calorie-dense foods, increasing plant-based foods intake, and having a robust workout routine. 

    Even better, it’s now emerging that CBD might have the potential for treating or preventing obesity and excess weight gain. 

    CBD (or cannabidiol) is the primary non-psychotropic extract obtained from the cannabis plant. Experts believe that consuming CBD alongside other cannabis compounds like delta 8 might help keep your weight in check while also relieving various weight-related disorders. 

    Lose Weight

    How CBD Helps With Weight Loss

    1. CBD Can Reduce Your Appetite

    Many people associate marijuana with appetite stimulation. Unknown to them, weed’s appetite-stimulating properties are mostly controlled by the plant’s psychoactive compounds like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In fact, certain cannabis extracts like CBD produce quite the opposite effects. When cannabidiol enters the body, the substance deactivates specific receptors associated with increased appetite. These receptors are known as CB1 receptors.

    Due to CBD’s effects on CB1 receptors, weed experts often advise recreational marijuana users to consume THC along with CBD. When used together, CBD modulates the effects of THC by deactivating CB1 receptors, with which THC usually interacts.

    So, while THC may give you the munchies, CBD will most likely curb your appetite and food cravings.

    In a 2012 animal study, researchers noted a marked reduction in appetite among rats exposed to CBD. The same studies compared the effects of CBD and another popular cannabis extract, cannabigerol (CBG). While CBD reduced food intake over the test period, CBG showed no significant impact.

    1. CBD Can Convert Bad Fat Into Good Fat

    CBD might help keep your weight in check by converting the more harmful white fat (also known as bad fat) into the more beneficial brown fat. 

    White fat is linked to numerous chronic diseases, including heart disease and diabetes. By converting it into brown fat, CBD not only lowers your risks of weight-related conditions. The substance also allows your body to enjoy the nutritional benefits offered by brown fat. 

    According to findings by a 2018 research, brown fat cells are the more active forms of fat. These cells burn off energy as heat. That’s in contrast to their inactive white counterparts, which store calories instead of using them. 

    Lose Weight

    1. CBD Might Prevent Metabolic Disorders

    Like most cannabis extracts, cannabidiol contains powerful antioxidants, such as flavonoids. Antioxidants lower the risks of disease by preventing cellular damage occasioned by oxidative stress. 

    So, besides helping to keep your weight in check, CBD might also reduce the risks of weight-related conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. 

    According to this study, cannabidiol might lower the incidences of diabetes by mediating the body’s cholesterol levels. Some animal studies investigating the role of CBD in treating diabetes found that the compound could reduce cholesterol levels by an impressive 25%. 

    CBD’s positive effects against cholesterol levels have a lot to do with the compound’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

    Using cannabidiol regularly can help keep your weight in check, and there are many studies to back that up. It’s also worth mentioning that CBD’s other therapeutic benefits might help with weight loss, albeit indirectly. For instance, cannabidiol is a renowned analgesic and anxiolytic herb. By relieving pain and anxiety, CBD can make it easy to focus on your workouts. More workouts ultimately translate to weight loss.

  • Mindfulness Tips to Help with Body Positivity

    Mindfulness Tips to Help with Body Positivity

    Mindfulness has become somewhat of a buzzword in recent years. It’s commonly used in the mental health sector, but because it’s so popular, it’s easy to disregard it as just another “fad” or technique that doesn’t work. 

    Nothing could be further from the truth. 

    In fact, mindfulness has incredible benefits. It can help with anxiety, depression, and stress. It’s also a constant, useful practice if you struggle with self-esteem or body image issues. 

    Body positivity has become an increasingly important topic. Even the beauty industry is starting to take notice, with many major brands hiring more diverse models with different ethnic backgrounds people of all shapes and sizes. Hopefully, one day, societal standards on what makes someone beautiful will shift completely. For now, though, far too many people still struggle with their body image. 

    So, how can mindfulness help? How can you use it every day to boost your self-esteem and feel good about your beautiful body?

    Body Positivity

    Let Go of Negative Thoughts

    One of the great things about mindfulness is that it isn’t a tool that forces you to just “think happy thoughts”. Instead, it focuses on the idea that you’ll have thoughts – both positive and negative – and you don’t have to hang onto them. 

    When you’re practicing mindfulness, you’re staying in the present moment. The idea is not to worry about the past or the future. As thoughts start to enter your mind, let them go. Sometimes, a cloud illustration is used to describe this process. Think of cloud watching on a sunny day. Clouds will pass by, but you can’t hang onto them. You can let them go and they will continue to pass. 

    This practice allows you to push away negative self-talk. Instead, you can pay more attention to your body.  Be mindful of when you feel the happiest about yourself.  When do you feel strong and healthy? When you’re connected with your breath and your body, there’s less room for negative thoughts about your image to creep in.  

    Body Positivity

    Practice Mindful Eating

    You’ve probably heard the saying, “you are what you eat”. But, there’s more truth to that statement than you might realize. Mindless eating is a real problem in our country. Some common examples include: 

    • Eating when you’re bored
    • Snacking when you’re distracted
    • Continuously eating something while you’re watching television
    • Eating because you’re upset/depressed

    As the name suggests, when you’re mindlessly eating, you may not even fully realize what you’re doing or why you’re doing it.  

    But, too much mindless eating can lead to problems like weight gain and an increased risk of diabetes, heart conditions, and stroke. 

    Mindful eating, on the other hand, is a fantastic way to show respect to your body. It helps you transform your relationship with food. You’ll focus more on what you’re eating, how you’re eating, and why you’re eating certain things. Mindful eating isn’t about deprivation. It’s about focusing on how to take care of your body and eat the things that make you feel good, whether you’re at home, at a restaurant, or even at a party. When you know to eat strategically at social functions, you can manage your healthy lifestyle well. 

    When you eat mindfully, you don’t have to stress about dieting or avoiding certain foods. It’s a matter of actively thinking about the foods you do eat. So, while fueling your body with whole grains, fruits and vegetables most of the time will help you feel your best, it’s can also be beneficial to mindfully eat a piece of chocolate from time to time, as long as you savor the taste and enjoy it with intention. 

    Body Positivity

    Celebrate Your Body with Movement

    We live in a society where far too many people exercise with superficial goals in mind. While some do it for better health, others focus on how they look, how muscular they can get, or how much weight they can lose. On the other hand, however, a very small percentage of Americans get enough regular exercise.

    Exercising mindfully is a way to celebrate your body for what it is, and recognize what it can be. It’s easy to exercise mindfully, no matter what type of activity you’re doing. Some tips to keep in mind include: 

    • Paying attention to your movements
    • Living in the moment and bringing intentionality to your workout
    • Accepting yourself and your body
    • Focusing on your breathing through each exercise

    If you’re having a hard time being mindful while you’re on a treadmill or lifting weights, try something that is dedicated to movement and breathing, like yoga. Yoga is a great way to feel more connected with your own body, and it doesn’t require an expert skill level. You can take a class, practice at home, or even take a break during your workday to do some exercises at your desk

    Learning to accept your body through mindfulness is a wonderful way to see yourself for who you really are, and love yourself no matter what. By banishing the negative self-talk and truly taking care of yourself from the inside out, you’ll recondition your way of thinking more positively and healthily. 

  • Finding Gratitude in College

    Finding Gratitude in College

    There are many periods of life that can be stressful — and college ranks high on that list. It doesn’t matter if you’re a young adult launching out into life on your own for the first time or you’re an older adult that is balancing a family and career while attending classes, the strains and general busyness of life can be overwhelming when you’re pursuing higher education.

    While the stress is normal, that doesn’t mean you have to let it fester. Depression, anxiety, and feelings of burnout and overwhelm are far too common amongst college students. If you find that you can relate, here are a few suggestions for ways to stay focused on gratitude and an overall positive attitude as you navigate your academic career.

    College students utilizing gratitude journals.

    Embrace an Attitude of Gratitude and Thankfulness

    First and foremost, if you want to find and cultivate gratitude while you’re in school, you need to embrace it. Seriously, these things don’t just happen on their own. In fact, with so much going on, you can rest assured that your natural reaction isn’t going to be thankful so much as overwhelmed.

    In order to contradict this tendency, look for ways to infuse gratefulness into your mindset and lifestyle. Start with the small things. Obvious activities like breathing, eating, and even waking up each day are easy to overlook yet critical life functions that you should always be grateful for.

    From there, begin to look for more nuanced things. Express thankfulness for the ability to choose your own clothing, interact with friends, have a smartphone, or even attend college in the first place. As you do this, consider either speaking your thankfulness aloud or writing each item down to help you process your gratitude in a more complete manner.

    College students utilizing gratitude journals.

    Stay Organized

    It may not be obvious, but one of the simplest ways to maintain your gratitude while in college is to stay organized. Clutter and messiness have often been linked to increased stress. In other words, if your life is disorganized, it can negatively impact your mental health.

    With that in mind, look for ways to stay more organized. This can include a variety of different areas of life, such as:

    • Keeping your courses and homework assignments clearly scheduled out in a calendar.
    • Planning your long-term finances through reducing your debt, consolidating student loans, and other positive financial activity.
    • Cleaning and organizing your dorm or other living spaces consistently.

    If you can maintain a sense of organization in your life throughout your time at college, you’ll be able to reduce that stress and focus on the positive more often.

    College students utilizing gratitude journals.

    Be Kind to Others

    Kindness is another critical aspect of sustainable gratitude. It’s easy to find aspects of joy within your own life. To extend that happiness and thankfulness to others is a bit more challenging. That’s why it’s so necessary.

    Look for those in your life that you are grateful for. Don’t just identify them, either. Actually reach out to them and thank them for all of the ways that they’ve positively impacted you.

    Take Time to Journal

    Journaling is a tremendous way to maintain gratitude. Internal dialogue is often fleeting and soon forgotten. Taking the time to write something down can help you gain perspective and see things in a more holistic manner.

    This applies to everything. If you’re feeling depressed, write down what you’re thinking to better understand your thought processes. If you’re struggling with your student loan payments, write down the reasons that you can’t pay them to better understand your options.

    From deep emotional reasoning to practical activities, journaling should always be an option while you’re in school.

    Listen to Something Relaxing

    Another way to stay grateful is to try to stay relaxed. You can do this by taking some time for yourself. Even if it’s just half an hour once a week, schedule in time for basic self-care.

    This can be anything from taking a shower or eating something healthy to tapping into some healing sounds by listening to some chill music and letting it impact your mood.

    College students utilizing gratitude journals.

    Maintain Perspective

    Finally, remember to always maintain perspective. Whenever you feel that pessimistic mindset closing in around your thoughts, fight to step back and consider the bigger picture. 

    For instance, if you’re feeling doubts about attending school, force yourself to remember that there are many excellent reasoning that you’re attending college. From financial independence to laying the foundation for a quality career to enhancing skills, you’re attending school for a reason.

    Finding Gratitude in College

    Gratitude isn’t something that comes easily. On the contrary, it requires purpose, focus, and cultivation to truly take root in your life. If you’re dealing with the pressures and strains of college, gratitude can feel impossible to find, let alone maintain. 

    And yet, if you take the time to seek it out and foster it in your thoughts and deeds, it truly can revolutionize your academic journey. So review the list above, pick something out, and start utilizing it today in the name of a more positive tomorrow.

  • 5 Herbs That Make The Immune System Better

    5 Herbs That Make The Immune System Better

    Health involves many spheres of the body like physical, mental, and behavioral wellness. Your body relies upon the defense pathways and immune responses to curb external infections. Also, the immune system prevents microbial attacks and maintains physiological mechanisms. In case you’re immunocompromised, herbal remedies can come to your rescue. Holistic therapy and herbs help enhance bodily functions. So, you can use them safely to strengthen immunity.

    Some herbs that stimulate the immune responses and protective mechanisms are as follows.

    1.   Elderberry

    Herbal remedies are a great solution to immunodeficient states and infectious diseases. One of the best herbs to include in your wellness routine is elderberry or Sambucus nigra. It contains chemicals like anthocyanins that incorporate antioxidant action. Also, its parts like berries and flowers help in promoting immune functions. Some infectious ailments like flu, cough, and viral infections subside with elderberry extracts. Research suggests that elderberries possess the ability to counter two strains of the influenza virus. Hence, you can get rid of the common cold and spells of fever with herbal supplements.

    Ways To Use

    • You can prepare delicious syrup and cordials for your wellness routine with elderberry. All you need to do is add the elderberry flower juice into the drinks for a refreshing note.
    • If you’re fond of alcohol, mix some elderberry extracts in your spirits. Not only does it amplify the tasting notes, but it also increases the nutritional value of the cocktails.

    2.   Cannabis

    The immune system regulates physiological health and promotes protective mechanisms. You can enhance the immune responses with cannabis supplements and extracts. Also, the herb contains phytocannabinoids that stimulate your endocannabinoid system. With phytocannabinoids, you can increase the activity of natural killer cells. It may help to sustain a table’s psychological health and might improve the gut microbiota as well. The chemicals in cannabis may act on your pain receptors to ease the painful sensations. If you wish to incorporate the herb in your wellness routine, get your hands on the shatter.

    Ways To Use

    • You can create some CBD-infused meals using cannabis tinctures and edibles. Not only does it enhance your nutritional reservoir, but it also promotes stable mental health.
    • With CBD pills and capsules, you can boost the immune functions. It may curb microbial attacks and prevent infections in the long run.

    3.   Holy Basil

    Another immune-regulating herb that you can try is the holy basil plant. The herb incorporates a savory taste from the garnishes in your pesto recipes to the refreshing flavor in beverages. It comes packed with many nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, and beta carotene. With holy basil, you can prevent common medical issues like colds, allergies, and dry cough. Also, it may help with cellular mechanisms and increase the activity of T helper cells. All these factors promote a well-functioning immune system and ensure anti-microbial effects.

    Ways To Use

    • Try out the basil tea in the morning for a rejuvenating start to the long day. It refreshes your mind and may help enhance your stamina.
    • You can use the basil leaves for garnishing your beverages and meals. All you need to do is top up the pasta and smoothies with some basil.

    4.   Astragalus

    Western herbal medicine considers the astragalus plant as a top-notch immune tonic. It possesses adaptogenic properties due to the high levels of isoflavonoids and saponins. Also, the herb is a potent immune-boosting extract that can promote WBC activity. Research suggests that it may regulate the activity of natural killer cells to stimulate immunity. Along with this, the chemicals enhance interferon levels and curb viral ailments. You can use the herb as a daily tonic for a better immune response. It may also improve your digestion, cardiac output, as well as antimicrobial aid.

    Ways To Use

    • Try out the astragalus root extracts to control cardiac symptoms and ailments. It may help with viral infections as well.
    • You can prepare the decoctions using the supplements for a healthy morning regimen. Add some supplement to boiling water and consume it.

    5.   Milk Thistle

    Do you experience inflammatory conditions and infections way more than usual? If yes, then you must go for holistic herbal therapy. Milk thistle is yet another herbal extract that may help strengthen your immunity. Also, chemicals like flavonolignans and silibinin may elevate the defense mechanisms in your body. It may help with microbial infections, autoimmune diseases Fetch the usable forms of milk thistle for utmost salubrity.

    Ways To Use

    • You may add the milk thistle leaves to your salads and meals for a rejuvenating effect. It strengthens the immune pathways and ensures a supply of nutrients.
    • The roasted seeds of milk thistle act as an immune-boosting coffee topping. So, next time you drink coffee, pop in some milk thistle seeds.

    Bottom Line

    The immune system governs the protective functions that keep the infections away. It possesses protective functions and may deteriorate due to a variety of environmental factors. Also, if you’re in an immuno-compromised state, herbal therapy may be of great help. Some herbs like milk thistle, astragalus, and holy basil may act as a top-notch immune-regulating plant. You can achieve the much-needed nutrients via herbal remedies. Don’t forget to include the herbs in your daily routine for a stable immune function.

     

  • ARE YOU READY for 2021?

    ARE YOU READY for 2021?

    2020 has been a year of struggle and transformation.  2021 will be a year of change and resiliency.  If there’s anything this past year has taught me, it’s that we may not be able to control what life throws our way, yet we do get to choose how we will make it work for us.

    This year, I stepped away from what did not serve my highest good, both personally and professionally.  While the unknown can be intimidating and scary, the adventure begins when we take our first steps towards change. I was willing to take those steps, and 2020 became the year of alignment for me.

    ARE YOU READY for 2021What changes have you faced in 2020?  For many, it has been a year of unresolved grief. Maybe you have lost a loved one, a job, or your identity, hopes, and dreams. Maybe you feel a loss of connection – that sense of separation – from others, from God, from your higher spiritual self.  Whatever it is, I suspect we all have lost something in 2020 in preparation for a huge change coming to us in 2021.

    I used to hide my losses. I did not want to expose them to the outside world.  I thought it was ‘easier’ to cope and deal with them internally until I realized it wasn’t.  For me, 2020 has been the loss of community, oneness, and unity.  The more I pushed down those feelings, the more I experienced a dreadful sense of separation – loneliness, and isolation.

    That’s when I took steps to change my outlook and perception.  Like all of us, I was limited physically to connecting with friends, family and loved ones due to the pandemic. I took that time to revise my inner compass and my self-talk.  By connecting deeply with my own grief and loss, I realigned with my true heart’s desires and designed new coaching packages that I’d like to share with you.   During 2020, I developed ‘Define your Divine Blueprint’, ‘The (F)ACTS of Life’ and ‘The Energetic Life Map’ coaching programs.

    These programs are created to help you release the loss you have experienced and step out of the past so that you can fully step into the present and receive what awaits you NOW. Here’s to releasing 2020 as we prepare to step fully into the present moment! Your presence is the gift of a lifetime.

    ARE YOU READY for 2021

    The ‘Define your Divine Blueprint’ program kick started my own journey. I would LOVE to support you as you begin yours for the coming year! This two-session package is designed for those who are ready to invest in themselves and take steps towards a life of their own design.  These sessions will include a 2020 reflection and a follow-up session, allowing you to bring clarity to what it is you most desire BEFORE beginning the journey down your purposeful path.

    The time is NOW. Are you ready to align with your life purpose and Divine Blueprint in 2021?

    I invite you to visit me at:  www.BrendaBentleyCoaching.com  or call/text 505-331-9095 for an initial consultation. 

    Brenda Bentley, MBA, NLP, Certified Coach
    Global Career Development Facilitator
    Brenda@BrendaBentleyCoaching.com

    ARE YOU READY for 2021Brenda Bentley is a Certified Life Coach, Hypnotherapist and Spiritual Guide.  She is an avid collector of crystals, metaphysical tools and indigenous artwork and understands the energies around them.   She enjoys partnering with you to discover your inner brilliance.

    Brenda Bentley Coaching is on:  FacebookLinkedIn

  • How To Improve Your Home for an Etheric Winter

    How To Improve Your Home for an Etheric Winter

    With wintertime on the way, outdoor projects will soon come to an end. However, just because you’re snowed-in doesn’t mean these labors of love have to end. The winter season is a great time to renovate and finish indoor jobs that you’ve held off on during the summer. Here are six indoor home improvement projects that will keep you busy all winter.

    Get Yourself Into Hot Water

    You want to stay warm all winter and that includes your hot water. Winter isn’t the time to have a failing heating tank, so if you’re not sure your current tank will survive the season and you live in the USA, contact your reliable water heater company in Westwood for example for an upgrade. You may even decide to go with a tankless heater or look into water recirculating. Water recirculating is a system that enables you to have hot water without waiting. If you procrastinated on your hot water worries all summer, now’s the time to address them and get the job done.

    Put Your Painting Clothes On

    The winter months are an excellent time to finish those indoor painting projects that got pushed to the wayside all summer. Head to your local hardware store and check out some of the latest color schemes. Update the bathroom, bedroom or the laundry room. Keep painting isolated to one room at a time so that you can close up and keep odor to a minimum. Another worthwhile idea is to repaint your staircase. Get creative and add a separate color, or tiles, to the kick boards making it truly unique.

    Change Hardware and Faceplates

    Another venture that’s perfect for being stuck indoors is changing out faceplates and cupboard door hardware. This might sound like a small job, but it makes a huge difference. Go through your entire house and count and measure faceplates and outlet covers. Since they’re available in an array of colors and designs, each room can have its own distinct personality. Switching cabinet knobs in your kitchen and bathroom is a lot of fun and gives doors an instant facelift.

    Update Window Treatments

    While the cold wind howls outside, you’ve got plenty of time to concentrate on your window treatments. Tear down your old, dusty curtains and go for a more modern look. Instead of curtains, you could choose to install elegant wooden blinds or shades. If you have a room that’s particularly cold, or gets the brunt of the wind, look for insulated drapes. These thermal curtains are no longer boring and are available in more colors and patterns than ever before.

    Etheric Winter

    Light Up the Winter

    If your lighting is in desperate need of an overhaul, winter is a good time to modify it. You can change the entire ambiance of any room with just the right lighting. For bedrooms, opt for soothing, soft light. Bathrooms command brighter light such as recessed spotlights and illuminating vanity fixtures. For the kitchen, you’ll also want strong light for cooking and perhaps pendant lights for dark corners or over your counter. Winter provides the perfect chance to catch up on these small projects.

    Wallpaper a Small Room

    If you think that wallpaper was just for your grandma, think again! Wallpaper has made a comeback in trendy and modern designs. Use paper to make a small room really pop, such as a bathroom or a reading nook. You can also make a statement when you use it to cover half a wall, such as below chair rail molding. It’s best to avoid papering an entire large room. Instead, find ways to use it to accent the room’s present color.

    Look Forward to Your Projects

    This winter instead of hibernating, look forward to all the projects you can accomplish inside. This is the time to replace your hot water system, improve window treatments and freshen up decor throughout the house. When spring comes back around, you’ll be finished renovating inside and be ready to tackle the outdoors once again.

  • 5 Herbs For Calming The Mind And Body

    5 Herbs For Calming The Mind And Body

    Herbs have played a significant role in both traditional and modern forms of medicine since 5000 years ago. They have been used by healers and physicians of various civilizations and cultures to calm the nervous system and protect the body from stress and anxiety.

    Herbs For Calming

    Living with constant distress and tension can be detrimental to your quality of life. Therefore, the need for effective herbal supplements to ease anxiety symptoms is greater than ever. Along with alleviating anxiety, such herbs can offer many other positive benefits. Here is a list of five herbs that help in calming the mind and body.

    1. Cannabidiol (CBD)

    Cannabidiol (CBD) is one of many cannabinoids derived from Cannabis Sativa. It gets isolated and extracted from the mother plant. Although cannabis is illegal, CBD  is completely legal in many countries due to its non-psychoactive status. There are different forms of CBD products available at online weed stores.

    Herbs For Calming

    CBD activates receptors that play a major role in keeping your mind calm (1). It acts on GABA neurotransmission, the chemical messenger activity that calms the nervous system. CBD inhibits an enzyme that breaks down GABA, leaving us more calm and relaxed. It also affects serotonin neurotransmission, which impacts our feelings of stress and happiness at la-dieta-chetogenica.it.

    2. Lemon Balm

    Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) has been used as a nervine for centuries. It has a long history of soothing not just the mind and the body but also digestion. It can be an effective sedative that helps in alleviating anxiety and aiding sleep.

    A research experiment (2) found that 600 mg of lemon balm can improve adverse mood effects due to stress. If you’re looking for a great herb to calm your mind and body, lemon balm may be a good choice! It not only helps to relieve anxiety but can also improve mood and reduce stress.

    3. Chamomile

    Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) is another useful herb that helps calm the mind and ease body tension. It is also beneficial for those who experience anger and inflammation when under stress.

    A 2009 study (3) concluded that chamomile could have a relaxing and calming effect on patients with anxiety issues. It is also known to ease digestion issues and encourage sleep, helping many people with insomnia. Nowadays, it is used extensively in aromatherapy and cosmetics, but it is also popular as a herbal tea. More than one million cups are consumed per day!

    Herbs For Calming

    4. Kava Kava

    Kava Kava (Piper Methysticum) is best known as ‘the root of happiness’. It addresses nervous issues, social anxiety, acute stress responses, and even insomnia. The key benefits of this herb are muscle relaxation and improved cognitive ability. Today, it is mostly consumed in pill form.

    Kava Kava can help you alleviate social anxiety or stage fright by letting down social barriers. It soothes the mind and promotes relaxation by binding with the GABA receptors in the body. It works like the neurotransmitter GABA to alleviate anxiety (4) almost immediately. It is also a natural alternative to prescription sleep medications.

    5. Lavender

    Widely used in aromatherapy, the lavender plant’s fragrance can help promote wellness and calmness. It helps reduce stress, anxiety, and even mild pain. Lavender is available in pill form and alone as an essential oil.

    Herbs For Calming

    Further, lavender is recommended for people who have insomnia or other sleep disorders. A study (5) revealed that lavender essential oil could increase sleep quality and reduce anxiety in coronary artery disease patients. Today, aromatherapists use lavender to treat headaches and restlessness or nervousness.

    Conclusion

    Herbs have several healing properties for the mind and body; however, one should always consult a healthcare provider before taking any herbal supplement. As with all-natural products, choose herb sources that are high-quality, organic, and sustainable.

    References:

    1. Esther M. Blessing, Maria M. Steenkamp, et al. Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders, 2015 Sep 4. doi: 10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1
    2. David O Kennedy, Wendy Little, et al. Attenuation of laboratory-induced stress in humans after acute administration of Melissa officinalis (Lemon Balm), Jul-Aug 2004;66(4):607-13. doi: 10.1097/01.psy.0000132877.72833.71
    3. Jay D. Amsterdam, MD, Yimei Li, MS,et al. A RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO-CONTROLLED TRIAL OF ORAL MATRICARIA RECUTITA(CHAMOMILE) EXTRACT THERAPY OF GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDER, 2009 Aug; 29(4): 378–382. doi: 10.1097/JCP.0b013e3181ac935c
    4. Karen M. Savage, Con K. Stough, et al. Kava for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (K-GAD): study protocol for a randomized controlled trial, 2015 Nov 2. doi: 10.1186/s13063-015-0986-5
    5. Ezgi Karadag PhD, RN  Sevgin Samancioglu PhD, RN, et al. Effects of aromatherapy on sleep quality and anxiety of patients, 27 July 2015. https://doi.org/10.1111/nicc.12198