15 Signs You’re With A Good Man

1.A good man never lets you forget how much he loves you.
I cannot tell you how many conversations I have had with women who tell me that there is no affection in their relationship. The man in their life does not make them feel loved, wanted, or appreciated. This is a profoundly important piece of the puzzle – a good man will always remind you how much you mean to him.
I understand men can be less communicative or affectionate than women are, but this does not excuse the severe lack of effort put forth by our generation. If someone truly loves you, you will know it and feel it. If they don’t, you’ll be wondering all the time if they do.

2.A good man always supports you.
Regardless of whether you want to go back to school after 20 years to get your Master’s degree, start a singing career, or stay at home to raise a family, a good man will always support you and what you want out of your life. He will never discourage you or make you feel as though you can’t do what you set out to do. He will be beside you every step of the way, cheering on your victories and comforting you during your defeats.

3.A good man will inspire you.
This goes one step beyond supporting you, which can be more passive. To inspire someone takes effort both in how one lives their own life as well as encourages others to live theirs. A good man’s drive and ambition will rub off on you as he pursues his own passions.

4.A good man will work to gain your trust.
A good man will want you to be comfortable and confident in your relationship. The very cornerstone of this is being able to trust someone, and he will realize that. Without trust there is no foundation for love or respect.
He will understand that trust is not just handed over to someone – it has to be earned, and then it has to be kept.

5.A good man will always make you feel beautiful.
He will understand that making you feel beautiful does not just mean saying the words to you. It will mean truly making you feel beautiful. In the way he looks at you, touches you, and treats you. He will notice details when you put effort into your appearance and remind you how attractive he still finds you even when you don’t.
A good man will understand that whether you are in your sweatpants on the couch or in your evening gown heading to a gala, when you love someone for who they truly are, everything about them becomes beautiful.

6.A good man will make you feel safe.
I have always said that I believe one of the best compliments a woman can give a man is telling him that she feels safe around him. Regardless of how attracted she is to you or how funny she thinks you are or how much money you have – if a woman cannot sleep soundly by your side at night, none of it matters.

7.A good man does the little things.
Do you need a prescription filled but have to stay late at work? Did you mention an art exhibit coming to town and he made plans to take you to see it? Regardless of how small certain things seem, he will understand they are really the big things that matter most.

8.A good man never crosses the line.
It is natural to have disagreements and even arguments in a relationship – but there is no reason to make things personal, become insulting, and never, ever to become abusive. A good man will remain calm and stay on the topic at hand.

9.A good man is always trying to improve himself.
Whether it be learning new things, developing a new skill set, reading a new book or watching a documentary – a good man who prides himself on continuous self improvement will always be intellectually challenging you and keeping your attention. He will be doing these things for himself, but the added benefit will be the positive impact it has on your relationship.

10.A good man understands actions speak louder than words.
Having the right man in your life will make you understand that people who make promises do not deserve your respect. People who keep promises deserve your respect, and he will be one of them.

11.A good man will open up to you.
It can be difficult for some men to express their emotions, fears, and even inner-most desires – but having the right woman in our life often helps to open those doors. A good man, while understanding of course some things are to be kept private, will not hide things from you or bottle up his feelings knowing it will cause tension and frustration.

12.A good man will always be honest with you.
When building a foundation for a happy, healthy relationship, a good man will understand that honesty is always the best policy.

13.A good man will make you feel comfortable being honest.
Comfort in a relationship (the good kind, not the kind that makes you stop trying) comes from the ability to be open and honest with your partner – and the ability to do this comes from knowing you will never be judged. A good man will encourage you to open up and share your feelings with him. There should never be any fear of him flying off the handle or overreacting if you share something with him.
This means being able to be the most genuine, uncensored version of yourself around him.

14.A good man will never be abusive.
Perhaps the most important point of all. Whether it be mentally, emotionally, or physically, a good man will never even think about being abusive towards you or harmful in any way. If this happens to you – please have the courage and respect for yourself in order to talk to someone or walk away immediately. No good person would ever act like this and it will not get better on its own.

15.A good man will stand by you no matter what.
When a man commits his love and his time to a woman, there are no stipulations or circumstances required. There will be good times and there will be not-so-good times. There will be challenges and unexpected situations that arise. But he will stay by your side and be your teammate through it all.
Of course, there is an asterisk on this. This does not mean you can disrespect him, lie, or cheat. It does not mean you can betray his trust and expect him to stick around because he promised to commit to you. This point is about things the two of you go through together and him having the integrity needed to not walk away when times get hard.
Any man can be by your side on the sunny days. The real test of character is whether or not he will hold the umbrella over you during the stormy days.

9 Foods to Help You Lose Weight

Delicious foods that help you diet? It sounds too good to be true.
No doubt: Weight loss comes down to simple math. You have to eat fewer calories than you burn.
"Certain foods can help you shed body weight," says Heather Mangieri, RD, a spokeswoman for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, "because they help you feel full longer and help curb cravings."
Some even kick up your metabolism. So take this list when you go to the supermarket:
 

1. Beans

Inexpensive, filling, and versatile, beans are a great source of protein. Beans are also high in fiber and slow to digest. That means you feel full longer, which may stop you from eating more.

2. Soup
Start a meal with a cup of soup, and you may end up eating less. It doesn’t matter if the soup is chunky or pureed, as long as it's broth-based. You want to keep the soup to 100 to 150 calories a serving. So skip the dollops of cream and butter.

3. Dark Chocolate
Want to enjoy chocolate between meals? Pick a square or two of dark over the milky version. In one study, chocolate lovers who were given dark chocolate ate 15% less pizza a few hours later than those who had eaten milk chocolate 

 

4. Pureed Vegetables 

You can add more veggies to your diet, enjoy your "cheat" foods, and cut back on the calories you’re eating, all at the same time. When Penn State researchers added pureed cauliflower and zucchini to mac and cheese, people seemed to like the dish just as much. But they ate 200 to 350 fewer calories. Those healthy vegetables added low-cal bulk to the tasty dish. 

 

5. Eggs and Sausage 

A protein-rich breakfast may help you resist snack attacks throughout the day. In a study of a group of obese young women, those who started the day with 35 grams of protein -- that’s probably way more than you’re eating -- felt fuller right away. The women ate a 350-calorie breakfast that included eggs and a beef sausage patty. The effect of the high-protein breakfast seemed to last into the evening, when the women munched less on fatty, sugary goods than the women who had cereal for breakfast. 

6. Nuts
For a great snack on the run, take a small handful of almonds, peanuts, walnuts, or pecans. Research shows that when people munch on nuts, they automatically eat less at later meals.

7. Apples
Skip the apple juice and the applesauce and opt instead for a crunchy apple. Whole fruit blunts appetite in a way that fruit juices and sauces don’t. One reason is that raw fruit has more fiber. Plus, chewing sends signals to your brain that you’ve eaten something substantial. 

8. Yogurt
Whether you prefer Greek or traditional, yogurt can be good for your waistline. A Harvard study followed more than 120,000 people for a decade or longer. Yogurt, of all the foods that were tracked, was most closely linked to weight loss. That doesn't prove that yogurt caused weight loss, but it stood out among other foods.

 

9. Grapefruit 

Yes, grapefruit really can help you shed pounds, especially if you are at risk for diabetes.
Researchers at Scripps Clinic in San Diego found that when obese people ate half a grapefruit before each meal, they dropped an average of 3 ½ pounds over 12 weeks. Drinking grapefruit juice had the same results. But grapefruit juice doesn't have any proven "fat-burning" properties -- it may just have helped people feel full.

Be careful: You cannot have grapefruit or grapefruit juice if you are on certain medications, so check the label on all your prescriptions, or ask your pharmacist or doctor.

 

4 Methods to Quit Smoking

Nicotine is one of the most harmful and widely available legal drugs in the world. It's addictive and harmful both to smokers and the people passively exposed to smoke, especially children. If you'd like to give up smoking, but don't know where to begin, create a structured plan. Realize why you want to quit, prepare for success, and carry out your plan with the support of others or medication therapy. Quitting smoking is difficult, but not impossible.

Method 1 : Deciding to Quit Smoking

 

A.Think about if you want to quit smoking. Nicotine is incredibly addictive and it will take determination to quit. Ask yourself if a life without smoking is more appealing than continuing your life as a smoker. If the answer is yes, have a clear reason for wanting to quit. This way, when abstaining becomes difficult you can be clear about your very important reason to quit.

• Consider how smoking affects these areas of your life: your health, your appearance, your lifestyle, and your loved ones. Ask yourself if these areas would benefit from you quitting.

B.Determine why you want to quit. Make a list of all the reasons you want to quit. This will help you become clear about your decision to quit. You'll want to refer to this list later, if you're tempted to smoke.

• For example, your list might say something like: I want to quit smoking so I can run and keep up with my son during soccer practice, have more energy, be alive to see my youngest grandchild get married, or save money.

C.Be prepared for nicotine-withdrawal symptoms. Cigarettes are highly effective at delivering nicotine throughout your body. When you stop smoking, you might experience increased cravings, anxiety, depression, headaches, feeling tense or restless, increased appetite and weight gain, and problems concentrating.

•  Realize that it may take more than one attempt to stop smoking. About 45 million Americans use some form of nicotine, and only 5 percent of users are able to quit during their first attempt 

 Method 2 : Making a Plan to Quit Smoking

 

A.Choose a date for when your plan will start. Committing to a start date adds structure to your plan. For example you might choose an important day such as a birthday or holiday, or just pick a date you like. 

• Pick a date within the next 2 weeks. This gives you time to prepare and start on a day that isn't stressful, important, would otherwise lead you to smoke 

B.Pick a method. Decide which method you would want to use, like quitting cold turkey, or slowing/reducing your use. Quitting cold turkey means that you completely stop smoking without looking back. Reducing your use means smoking less and less until you've stopped. If you pick reducing your means, be specific about when and by how much you will reduce your use. For example, it might be simple like saying, "I will reduce my use by one cigarette every two days." 

•  You'll have a better chance of success if you combine counseling and medication with stopping, regardless of which method you choose 

C.Prepare for cravings. Have a plan in advance for when cravings strike. You might try hand-to-mouth. This describes the action of moving your hand to your mouth for smoking. Have a replacement to fulfill this need. Try snacking on low-calorie snacks, like raisins, popcorn, or pretzels, when this urge comes up.

• You might try exercising to combat cravings. Go for a walk, clean the kitchen, or do some yoga. You might also try to control your impulses by squeezing a stress ball or chewing gum when cravings hit.

Method 3 : Carrying Out Your Plan

A.Prepare the night before quitting. Wash your bedding and clothes to get rid of cigarette smells. You should also get rid of any ashtrays, cigarettes, and lighters from your house. Make sure to get plenty of sleep, since this will help lower your stress.

• Remind yourself of your plan and carry a written version with you, or keep it on your phone. You may also want to re-read the list of reasons why you want to quit.

B.Ask for support. Your family and friends can be extra support in your cessation journey. Let them know your goal and ask them to help you by not smoking around you or offering you a cigarette. You can also ask for their encouragement and to remind you of your specific goals when temptation is difficult.

• Remember to take quitting one day at a time. Remind yourself that this is a process and not an event.

C.Know your triggers. Many people find that certain situations trigger the desire to smoke. You might want a cigarette with your cup of coffee, for instance, or you might want to smoke when you're trying to solve a problem at work. Identify places where it may be difficult not to smoke and have a plan of what you'll do in those specific places. For example, you should have an automatic response for a cigarette offer: “No thank you, but I will have another tea” or “ No - I am trying to quit.”

• Control stress. Stress can be a pitfall when trying to quit smoking. Use techniques such as deep breathing, exercise, and down time to help thwart stress.

D.Be committed to not smoking. Continue your plan even if you have bumps in the road. If you have a relapse and smoke for an entire day, be sure to be gentle and forgiving with yourself. Accept that the day was tough, remind yourself that quitting is a long, hard journey, and get back on your plan the next day.

• Try to avoid relapsing as much as possible. But if you do, recommit as soon as you can to quitting smoking. Learn from your experience and try to cope better in the future.

 Method 4 : Using Aids to Quit Smoking

A.Consider using e-cigarettes. Recent studies have suggested that using e-cigarettes while you quit smoking can help you reduce or quit smoking. Other studies recommend caution when using e-cigarettes since the amount of nicotine varies, the same chemicals as those in cigarettes are still being delivered, and they may re-activate the habit of smoking.

B.Get professional help. Behavioral therapy combined with medication therapy can improve your chances of successfully quitting. If you've tried quitting on your own and are still struggling, think about getting professional help. Your doctor can talk to you about medication therapy.

• Therapists can also help you through the process of quitting. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help change your thoughts and attitudes about smoking. Therapists can also teach coping skills or new ways to think about quitting.

C.Take Bupropion. This medication doesn't actually have nicotine, but it does help reduce the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal. Bupropion could increase your chances of cessation by 69 percent.Usually, you'll want to start taking bupropion 1 to 2 weeks before you stop smoking. It's normally prescribed in one or two 150mg tablets per day.

• Side effects include: dry mouth, difficulty sleeping, agitation, irritability, tiredness, indigestion and headaches as side effects.

D.Use Chantix. This medication curbs nicotine receptors in the brain, which makes smoking less pleasurable. It also reduces withdrawal symptoms. You should start taking Chantix one week before quitting. Be sure to take it with meals. Take Chantix for 12 weeks. Side effects include: headaches, nausea, vomiting, trouble sleeping, unusual dreams, gas, and changes in taste. But it could double your chances of quitting.

• Your doctor will have you increase your dose over time. For example, you'll take one 0.5mg pill for days 1-3. Then you'll take one 0.5mg pill twice a day for days 4-7. You'll take one 1 mg pill twice per day after that.

E.Try nicotine replacement therapy (NRT). NRT includes all types of patches, gums, lozenges, nasal sprays, inhalers or sublingual tablets that have and deliver nicotine into the body. You don't need a prescription for NRT and it can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. NRT could increase your chances of quitting by 60 percent.

• Side effects of NRT include: nightmares, insomnia, and skin irritation for patches; mouth soreness, difficult breathing, hiccups, and jaw pain for gum; mouth and throat irritation and coughing for nicotine inhalers; throat irritation and hiccups for nicotine lozenge; and throat and nasal irritation as well as runny nose if the nasal spray is used.

10 Facts About Friendship

 1. MEN AND WOMEN CAN’T BE FRIENDS
Think you have a friend of the opposite sex? After reading this, you’ll think again. A study at the University of Wisconsin shows that friendship between men and women is a fairly recent phenomenon, and that it’s impossible to escape from moments of seduction and sexual tension.
"Little research has explored how men and women navigate platonic cross-sex friendships, which are presumed to involve neither sexual relations nor kin,” maintains April Bleske-Rechek, a psychologist and one of the directors of the study.
Scientists studied 88 friend couples of the opposite sex and concluded that men were more physically and sexually attracted to their female friends, and tended to overestimate how these women saw them.

2. ANIMALS HAVE FRIENDS, TOO!
Most YouTube videos featuring adorable pairs of animals from different species don’t meet scientists’ criteria for “friendship” (a long-lasting bond of sacrifice, shared moments and hurt after loss).
But several studies have shown that, at least between chimpanzees, baboons, horses, hyenas, elephants, bats and dolphins, animals can form friendships for life with individuals that aren’t from their species.
There’s even documented proof of a friendship between a centenarian turtle and a young hippopotamus in Kenya.
But why do animals form these bonds?
The most obvious answer is that friendship has certain benefits: in all the cases studied, friends had better health, less stress and more reproductive success.
This means that friendship is going to become a more and more common characteristic of the species, according to scientist Carl Zimmer.

3. FRIENDS TRIGGER OUR EMPATHY
The ability to put yourself in someone else’s shoes is a key human characteristic, but with friends we take it to the next level.
A group at the University of Virginia studied brain scans from 22 different people who were under threat of receiving small electrical shocks to either themselves, a friend, or a stranger.
Scientists discovered that the brain activity of a person in danger, versus that when a friend is, is essentially the same.
“Our self comes to include who we become close to,” says James Coan, psychologist and director of the study.
“People close to us become a part of ourselves, and that is not just metaphor or poetry, it’s very real. Literally we are under threat when a friend is under threat,” he summarizes.
Coan relates this development to the issue of survival and similarity, which grows as you spend more time with someone.
“Humans come together to prosper. Our goals and resources are shared. If someone is threatening a friend, they’re threatening our resources and goals,” he believes.

4. FRIENDS WERE LIMITED ... UNTIL FACEBOOK
In 1993, anthropologist Robin Dunbar of the University of Oxford extrapolated for humans the results he obtained studying primate social groups: every individual can only maintain up to 150 significant relationships at the same time.
Dunbar didn’t take into consideration the social network explosion, nor does he use any today, but he admits that technology could increase our memory capacity while increasing the number of friends we can have at the same time.
But the question now is – is accumulating relationships detrimental to closer friendship ties?
Will Reader, a Doctor in Psychology at Sheffield Hallam University in the UK, notes that, although the majority of friendships start outside of the internet, the web can help us to keep up relationships that previously, because of long distance and lack of time, were lost.
Although, having said that, the majority of adults only have two best friends. 

5. WE’RE JEALOUS AND WE GIVE WHAT WE GET
If someone considers you their best friend, you probably feel the same way, right?
A group of psychologists from the University of Pennsylvania has studied the friendship rankings offered by the social network MySpace and has concluded that value friends more that value us more.
"We’re jealous beings. How our friends value us and our relationship directly affects the friendship itself,” suggests Peter DeScioli, the coordinator of the study that throws out the traditional theory that friendship is just a mutual exchange of favors.
"If you think about friendships in terms of alliances, [...] one of the main things you’ll find about allies is that they are fundamentally jealous of each other.
"If Saudi Arabia is allies with the United States, it’s not just concerned about its relationship with the United States. It’s also concerned about the relationship that the United States has with other nations [...].
"In reciprocal or exchange relationships, [...] you just care about what you’re getting out of the relationship,” DeScioli explains, maintaining that friendship is created as a protection and advantage in times of conflict.

6. WORK FRIENDS MAKE YOU MORE PRODUCTIVE ... BUT BE CAREFUL!
Friendship and work can go hand in hand. Various studies have shown that having friends helps you find work and be more happy, creative, productive and competitive in the office. In countries like India and Indonesia, some have said that their work friends understand them better than their other friends—and even their spouse.
Still, you have to be careful, because at work not everyone is equal.
A friendship with your boss endangers not only your bond, but also your position and credibility in the office. The desire to climb the corporate ladder can destroy even closer relationships: according to a recent study by LinkedIn, 68% of people born after 1980 would sacrifice a friendship for a promotion.
Sociologist Jan Yager, author of several books on the subject, warns that work friends can be very different from other friends.
"Work is the basis of a person’s financial stability. You have more to lose from it when deciding between a friend and your source of income,” she explains.

7. LOVE COSTS YOU TWO FRIENDS
Anthropologist Robin Dunbar has studied the effect that love has on friendship and the results are clear: when a new person enters into your life, he or she displaces two others in your close circle, usually a family member or a friend.
In previous studies, the specialist has calculated that we have five close friends (those that we go to when we have problems). However, people in a relationship have four, counting their partner.
Love takes time away from seeing friends and this allows friendships to deteriorate, he points out. “If you don’t see people, your emotional engagement with them drops off and does so quickly.”

8. FRIENDSHIPS ARE GUARANTEED WHEN ...
Knowing what irritates a friend can make your relationship more stable and less frustrating. At least, this was the conclusion arrived at by Dr. Charity Friesen of Wilfrid Laurier University in Canada, after giving a questionnaire to college friends about the attitudes and situations that irritated them, or that they or their friend didn’t like.
Friesen called this the “if-then” profile. She considers knowing friends’ reactions when faced with different situations just as important as knowing their tastes.
The characteristics that most irritated the study subjects were skepticism, gullibility, shyness, social boldness, perfectionism and obliviousness.

9. MEN AND WOMEN ARE DIFFERENT
Friendships are important, but especially for women. For men, according to a 2012 study at the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health at University College London, family bonds are more essential.
Scientists studied 6,500 British men born in 1958 and found that marriage is most beneficial for men’s mental health, as it enforces their family ties. However, the opposite was true for women, as they tended to lose friends to lack of time when married.
Female friendships can greatly affect the type of person these women are, and the type of person they'll become. They also help them cope with stress.
Starting or maintaining these relationships releases oxytocin, a hormone that reduces the tension levels and produces a calming effect.

10. FRIENDSHIP IS GOOD FOR YOUR HEALTH
No matter if you’re female or male, having friends is a good thing. People with a wide network of friends have less tension, suffered from less stress, had stronger defenses and lived longer.
Friends encourage good habits, chase away depression, help you overcome diseases and cause satisfaction, pleasure and happiness.
“Not having a social support network can be a higher death risk than obesity or leading a sedentary life without exercise,” explains Julianne Holt-Lunstad, professor of psychology and head of a study at Brigham Young University, on the relationship between friendship and longevity.
"The studies have shown a 50% increased odds of survival if you have a solid social network.”

7 Ways to Get Your Diet off to a Good Start

Beginning a diet to lose weight and improve health is a worthy goal, but it can be a bit overwhelming. There are bound to be challenges whenever you start something new, especially when it involves something you do several times each day -- like eating and drinking.
Still, as long as you don't try to change everything at once, you can meet your weight loss goals. Read on to learn some secrets of the masters -- those who have lost weight and, more importantly, kept it off. After all, what good is losing the extra weight if you gain it right back?

1. Follow a Healthy Eating Plan

A healthy eating plan (like the WebMD Weight Loss Clinic plan) should include foods you enjoy along with plenty of healthy, not-too-processed foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, lean meats, seafood, beans, and nuts. Thanks to their ability to satisfy, these low-calorie foods will actually help you stick to your diet. The most satisfying foods have lots of fiber (like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts) and/or low-fat protein (found in meat, fish, dairy, and soy).
Ideally, you'll slowly wean yourself off favorite foods that are heavily processed and high in fat or calories, and replace them with more nutritious options. At any time during this process, feel free to come up with a new eating plan that increases some healthful foods and decreases others. It's best for WLC members to create a new plan at the end of the week. When you do so, the WLC electronic journal wipes your slate clean.
Don't worry if you are a vegetarian, or have allergies or intolerances. Your personalized WLC eating plan may not include all of the recommended food groups, but it will provide adequate nutrients. We recommend that everyone take a daily multivitamin/mineral supplement to fill in any nutritional gaps.

2. Take Baby Steps

Change is hard. Making small, gradual changes in your eating patterns is the best way to overhaul your diet. Some experts suggest making just one change each week, to give you time to get used to the new behavior. Your ultimate goal is to establish new eating habits that can be sustained for a lifetime.
An excellent way to start is to stock your cupboards and refrigerator with healthy foods, and plan to prepare healthier meals at home. Pick up a new cookbook or cooking magazine specializing in healthy cuisine; post a favorite family recipe on the WLC "Recipe Doctor" board for tips on how to lighten it; or try one of the recipes from the Weight Loss Clinic collection.

3. Set Realistic Goals

Most people who need to lose weight set lofty goals, dreaming of fitting into clothing sizes that may not be realistic for them. Yet losing as little as 5% to 10% of your body weight can improve the way you feel, put a zip in your step, and, most importantly, improve your health. Studies show that losing even small amounts of weight can improve overall health and, specifically, lower blood pressure, and blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Set weight loss goals that are attainable, and keep in mind that the recommended rate of weight loss is only 1-2 pounds per week. Slow and steady wins this race. It takes time to learn new eating habits that will last for the rest of your life.

4. Reward, Don't Punish

To keep motivation high, reward yourself after reaching minigoals. After all, losing 5 pounds or making it to the gym five times in a week deserves a pat on the back.
On the other hand, don't be too hard on yourself when you fall off the wagon -- everyone does, sooner or later. Anticipate that slipups will happen, and when they do, just brush yourself off and get right back on track. Use your slipup to learn where you are vulnerable, and decide how you will handle the situation the next time without abandoning your diet. My suggestion is try to do your best 80% of the time, and relax the rules somewhat the other 20% of the time.

5. Get a Buddy

Support is an essential part of a successful weight loss program. Enlist a family member, find a friend to join you in your walks or workouts, and get involved in the WLC online community. These people will become a source of inspiration, support, and encouragement on a regular basis -- and especially when the going gets tough.

6. Track Your Meals

Successful losers know how important it is to document what and how much they eat. The simple act of writing it down is a powerful tool that can help keep you in control.
Use the WLC journal function, or if you prefer, keep your own diary to track your daily food intake.

7. Add Exercise

Eating healthfully and cutting calories is only half the formula for successful weight loss. Getting regular physical activity is the other portion. Exercise is a powerful tool, helping you burn calories and increase strength, balance, and coordination while reducing stress and improving your overall health.
My advice is to fit in fitness first thing in the morning, to make sure it doesn't get squeezed out of your busy day. (Before starting any fitness program, check with your doctor, and while you're at it, bring your doctor a copy of your eating plan to discuss.)
You should be proud that you have made the decision to improve your health. Know that the road ahead will have some bumps, but equipped with a good eating plan, support system, and a positive attitude, you will be successful. Good luck!

How To Be Successful In Life: 13 Tips From The World’s Most Successful People

No matter how old you are, where you’re from or what you do for a living, we all share something in common—a desire to be successful. Each person’s definition of success is different, however, as some may define success as being a loving and faithful spouse or a caring and responsible parent, while most people would equate success with wealth, fame, and power.

We all want to achieve success so we could live a comfortable life—have financial freedom, drive a nice car, and live in a beautiful house. However, although success can be achieved, it does not come easy.

There are a lot of tips and strategies out there on how to be successful in life, but I am still a firm believer that there is no better way to succeed than to follow that footsteps of those who have already done so. Here are 13 success tips from some of the world’s most successful and renowned people:

1.Think big

From Michelangelo Buonarroti, Great Renaissance Artist: “The greater danger for most of us lies not in setting our aim too high and falling short; but in setting our aim too low, and achieving our mark.”

2.Find what you love to do and do it.

From Oprah Winfrey, Media Mogul: “You know you are on the road to success if you would do your job and not be paid for it.”

3. Learn how to balance life.

From Phil Knight, CEO of Nike Inc.: “There is an immutable conflict at work in life and in business, a constant battle between peace and chaos. Neither can be mastered, but both can be influenced. How you go about that is the key to success.”

 4. Do not be afraid of failure.

 From Henry Ford, Founder of Ford Motors: “Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.”

 5. Have an unwavering resolution to succeed.

From Colonel Sanders, Founder of KFC: “I made a resolve then that I was going to amount to something if I could. And no hours, nor amount of labor, nor amount of money would deter me from giving the best that there was in me. And I have done that ever since, and I win by it. I know.”

6. Be a man of action.

From Leonardo da Vinci, Renaissance Genius :“It had long since come to my attention that people of accomplishment rarely sat back and let things happen to them. They went out and happened to things.”

7. Avoid conflicts.

From Theodore Roosevelt, 26th President of America: “The most important single ingredient in the formula of success is knowing how to get along with people.”

8. Don’t be afraid of introducing new ideas.

From Mark Twain, Famed Author: “A person with a new idea is a crank until the idea succeeds.”  

9. Believe in your capacity to succeed.

From Walter Disney, Founder of Walt Disney Company: “If you can dream it, you can do it.”

10. Always maintain a positive mental attitude.

From Thomas Jefferson, 3rd President of America: “Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental attitude.”

11. Don’t let discouragement stop you from pressing on.

From Abraham Lincoln, 16th President of America: “Let no feeling of discouragement prey upon you, and in the end you are sure to succeed.”

12. Be willing to work hard.

From JC Penny, Founder of JC Penney Inc.: “Unless you are willing to drench yourself in your work beyond the capacity of the average man, you are just not cut out for positions at the top.”

13. Be brave enough to follow your intuition.

From Steve Jobs, Co-founder of Apple Inc.: “Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.”

14 Interesting Facts About Love

Love is pure, love is painful, love is sweet and love is dreadful. True love is overwhelming. Our lives depend on it and it often seems like our planet would stop spinning if love didn’t exist. Love is something we strive for and something we mourn the loss of.

A lovesick panda once said that “if you’re never been hurt, you’re either very lucky, or very lonely”.

We understand the poetry of the heart, but over the courses of our lives we tend to demystify this precious feeling more and more. We learn about biological processes that cause specific reactions; we learn about cultural influences on how we behave and think about love; we learn about the psychological and physiological processes that make us fall for someone.

And as soon as we think there’s no more place for romance in a world explained by science, we fall in love, or simply look into the eyes of our beloved, and all of that knowledge is pushed to the back of our minds. In the end, the feeling itself is what matters most.

Let us present you with 20 interesting facts and theories about love that will explain much about this all-absorbing phenomenon without dispelling its romance and poetry.

1. Monogamous Relationships Exist Throughout The Animal Kingdom

Even though we often think of ourselves as a faithful species, we’re not the only one in the animal kingdom. Wolves, swans, gibbons, black vultures, albatrosses and even termites are just a few of those animals that find a mate for a lifetime.

2. It only takes up to 4 minutes to decide whether you like someone or not

If you want to make a good impression on someone, you’ve only got about 4 minutes to do it. It is believed that it has far more to do with your body language, tone and speed of your voice rather than exactly what you say.

3. When Two Lovers Gaze At Each Others’ Eyes, Their Heart Rates Synchronize

 Some extraordinary research has found that couples who are in love and bond in a romantic relationship synchronize their heart rates after gazing into each others’ eyes for three minutes.

4. Falling In Love Has Neurological Effects Similar To Those Of Cocaine

Falling in love is much like taking a dose of cocaine, as both experiences affect the brain similarly and trigger a similar sensation of euphoria. Research found that falling in love produces several euphoria-inducing chemicals that stimulate 12 areas of the brain at the same time.

5. Cuddling Releases Natural Painkillers
Oxytocin, the so-called love or cuddle hormone, is produced during an embrace or cuddle. The hormone appears in the brain, ovaries and testicles and is thought to be involved in the bonding process. Research has found that a dose of oxytocin decreases headaches significantly, and for some it even makes the pain go away completely after 4 hours. It’s definitely worth trying hug and cuddle medicine before jumping to chemicals and pills.

6. Even Looking At A Picture Of A Loved One Relieves The Pain
Even though it was long known that the presence of a significant other has a lot to do with patients’ improvement, it has been proved that the same goes for even a picture of the beloved. The experiment showed that when experiencing pain, study participants exposed to pictures of their beloved and to distracting word games had their pain reduced far more than those exposed to the same distracting word games and pictures of acquaintances.

7. People At The Same Level Of Attractiveness Are More Likely To End Up Together

Many psychological and social research indicates that there is a significant pattern in how people choose people to establish romantic relationships with. This pattern is explained by the Matching Hypothesis, which says that people are more attracted to those that they share a level of attractiveness with, or, in other words, are equally socially desirable. Even if successful couples differ in physical attractiveness, one of them usually compensates for it with other socially desirable qualities.

8. Couples Who Are Too Similar To Each Other Are not Likely To Last
As the well-known saying goes, opposites attract. And research proves that this is partially true. Couples that are either too similar or too different tend not to last very long. Apparently, there always has to be a foundation of similarities, but there also have to be things that the two of you learn from each other.

9. Heartbreak Is Not Just A Metaphor

Research has provided evidence that intense, traumatizing events, such as a break-up, divorce, loss of a loved one, physical separation from a loved one, or betrayal can cause real physical pains in the area of one’s heart. This condition is called the Broken Heart Syndrome. Deep emotional distress triggers the brain to distribute certain chemicals that significantly weaken one’s heart, leading to strong chest pains and shortness of breath. The condition is often misdiagnosed as heart attack and tends to affect women more often.

10. Romantic Love Eventually Ends…Only To Be Followed By Committed Love

Couples at the very beginning of a romantic relationship will be very different a year later. It is estimated that romantic love, which is linked with euphoria, dependence, sweaty palms, butterflies and alike, only lasts about a year. After that first year begins the so-called “committed love” stage. The transition is linked with elevated neurotrophin protein levels in newly formed couples.

11. People Who Are In Love Have Chemical Similarities With People With OCD
Studies show that people at an early stage of love have lower levels of serotonin, which is associated with feelings of happiness and well-being, and higher levels of cortisol, associated with stress. This is strikingly similar to those people who have Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, which explains why we act so out of character when we fall for someone.  It works the other way around as well – people with lower levels of serotonin fall in love and get into sexual relationships quicker than others. Check out this vivacious video that explains the theory.

12. Thinking Of Love And Sex Influences Creativity And Concrete Thinking, Respectively

Research based on the construal level theory found out that reminders of love influence more abstract and creative thinking because they are associated with more distant and abstract considerations – long-term relationships, devotion, commitment and intimacy. Reminders of sex trigger concrete thinking, making a person focus more on momentary details than on long-term plans or goals.

13. Attachment + Caring + Intimacy = Perfect Love
The triangular theory of love suggest a clear formula for the components of different kinds of love. There are three kinds of love that are a product of two different pairs of basic components: romantic love = passion + intimacy, companionate love = intimacy + commitment, and fatuous love = passion + commitment. Of course, the truest and strongest of all is consummate love, which consists of all three components.

14. An Attractive Face Is Preferred Over An Attractive Body For Long-Term Relationships
There’s evidence that when looking for a fling, the body wins over the face on a physical attraction basis. The opposite is true, however, for those who are looking for a long-term relationship partner.

10 Reasons It's Great To Be Single (Even If It's Not What You Want)

I wrote this approximately two months after my ex-husband’s sudden disappearance. Faced with unanticipated heartbreak, I could not begin to fathom the journey I was beginning.
After nine years of cohabitation, I had forgotten how to live alone. And, in a city where apartments are the size of postage-stamps, I suddenly felt lost in my home.
But I healed. And learned a lot along the way.
Aimee Hartstein, LCSW (a relationship therapist) and I are writing a series on heartbreak, aimed to provide comfort for those grieving due to a divorce, breakup, betrayal or other relationship fallout. We speak from experience, having both survived (and thrived) post-divorce.
We’ll start with three truths:

1. Your hurt and confusion will diminish with time.
2. You will find love again. If you use this time wisely, love will be bigger, better and healthier the next time around.
3. This hurt provides an opportunity and a gift. You have an opportunity to learn how to soothe, comfort and love the most important person in your life — you.

After recognizing these truths, you can allow yourself to sit with then. From there, you'll get to know these 10 gifts you’ll receive from heartbreak:

1. You’ll master new skills.
Couples, especially over significant periods of time, develop a level of helplessness. My ex-husband vacuumed the floors; I cleaned the bathroom. Once he left, I (embarrassingly) had no idea how to use my vacuum cleaner.
On your own, you’ll have no choice but to master a new skill-set. For you, this may not be about domestic chores around the house. But inevitably, there will be something you're used to that is then absent when your partner is no longer present in your life.
“Breakups pull the rug out from under a carefully cultivated life. A wife may be faced with maintaining the yard for the first time. A husband may have to learn to feed a family on a budget. Approach new tasks with openness, curiosity, and humor,” explained Aimee, the relationship therapist.

2. You’ll discover the flip-side of sadness.
Fighting, accusations, threats, and alienation often mark the end of a relationship. Conversely, solitude may provide a respite from strife.
Take, for example, a client who reveled in her home’s peace and quiet after she kicked out an emotionally abusive boyfriend. “I once saw a couple fight on the subway,” she said, “and I breathed out a sigh of relief that I didn’t have to deal with that nonsense anymore.”

3. You’ll find comfort in meditative acts.
Formal sitting meditation, while wonderful, often is accompanied by self-judgment. Let's face it: it's tough to sit still and focus on your breath when your thoughts are racing, and pain fills your heart.
If meditating feels too far outside your comfort zone, try finding other forms of active meditation. Take a long walk in the park. Quietly read a book while sipping a glass of wine. Cultivate peace amid the daily grind, quiet your mind and tap into your intuitive awareness.

4. You’ll fuel your passions.
Couples negotiate two lives — their life within the relationship, and their pursuits, interests and friendships outside of it. And more often than not, the result is that they are short on time.
Newly single, you will have more free time to rediscover interests and hobbies.
“My happiest clients figure out what makes them tick. They surf, learn watercolor painting, study Spanish.” said Aimee. “Indulging in hobbies also has the very important collateral benefit of expanding one’s social-circle with like-minded people.”

5. You’ll find intimacy and love in other places.
Many couples, unintentionally, retreat unto themselves. They are comfortable with their partner, and unwittingly disconnect from lifelong friends and family for months (if not years).
“Breakups are a wonderful time to reconnect with people who love you. If it has been a while, mend fences. Good people are overwhelmingly forgiving, especially in the face of a contrite and hurting friend,” said Aimee the relationship therapist.

6. You’ll learn the power of prayer.
Life can bring you to your knees. Happy people find purpose and meaning even in life’s greatest tragedies. They communicate with their Creator and ask for strength. Regardless of whether you worship Jesus or Allah (or find your version of God in Nature’s beauty), connect to your Higher Power on a daily basis.

7. You’ll shore up the foundation.
Relationships are about two people. And even when they end sourly because of one person's misbehavior, resist the urge to point fingers at the ex. Instead, figure out your failings and work actively to improve upon them.
“People who successfully navigate breakups ask, ‘What could I learn from this?’ Maybe they need to learn how to set boundaries? Or, fix childhood wounds that subconsciously cause them to pick the wrong people? Breakups are a wonderful opportunity to understand and improve upon shortcomings, so as to not repeat the same mistakes again,” said Aimee the relationship therapist.

8. You’ll gain perspective.
After my divorce, I volunteered weekly to cook meals for terminally ill AIDS and cancer patients. I enjoyed camaraderie with like-minded people and escaped briefly from my negative and spiraling thoughts.
Whether it's through volunteering or trying a new activity, do something useful and generous with your skills. You’ll gain needed perspective, inner strength and empathy.

9. You’ll rediscover your sexuality.
Heartbreak decimates egos and shatters self-esteem. Rediscovering flirtation, romance and attraction work wonders to heal your spirit. Locking eyes with an attractive stranger. Laughing until the late night on a first date. Feeling the electricity of a crush’s hand in yours. A little romance makes you aware that the heart (and soul) does heal.

10. You’ll discover the importance of being your own best friend.
Becoming comfortable in your own company may be one of the most challenging skills you will ever muster. It may also have the greatest payout.
“When you’re happy alone, you are content. You say 'no' to negative people. You close the door on abusive relationships. You feel whole. And, in this state, you will place such a premium on your sanity and peace that you will only welcome happy, healthy and productive relationships into your life,” said Aimee the relationship therapist.
To be kept abreast of the Heartbreak Series and to receive two free gifts (a “7-Day Meditation to Heal Heartbreak” and “Recipe for Heartbreak (Comforting, Healthy Meals for One)”), click here.
Monica Parikh cowrote this post with Aimee Hartstein. Hartstein is a licensed psychotherapist with 20 years of experience, specializing in relationship and couples counseling.

12 Things Most Doctors Don't Tell You About Sexual Health

Every year, millions of women give up or drastically compromise their expectations of having enjoyable, fun, satisfying sex ever again.
Even if these women are among the majority who actually dare to discuss sexual issues with their doctors, they are often left without productive answers about their lack of libido, lack of orgasms, and lack of pleasure.
The truth is, even otherwise fabulous doctors are not experts on the physical, hormonal and medical aspects of maintaining peak sexual health ... and pleasure! All women who are experiencing physical and/or hormonal issues related to sexual function — menopause, incontinence, chronic lack of sleep — as well as those with medical conditions including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and more, still can elevate their sexual awareness and health.
And, the good news is you don’t even need to don those attractive paper gowns or put your heels into stirrups.
Here are 12 examples of important facts about sexual health that your doctor has probably not mentioned:


1. A headache during an orgasm may indicate a serious problem.
You probably mentioned your bad headache to your doc. But did you neglect to mention that, oh, by the way, that headache happened simultaneous with an orgasm? If so, that’s something you want to check out sooner rather than later. Patients with a sub-arachnoid hemorrhage report that a severe headache at the time of climax was their first indication of a serious problem.

2. Diabetes may affect your ability to have an orgasm.
Your doctor asked about numbness in your feet, but not in your clitoris. According to a recent study, there is a likely correlation between diabetes and sexual dysfunction in women; this might have to do with decreased sensation in the clitoris from common vascular or neurologic changes.

3. Your birth control pills can cause vaginal dryness.
Menopause may be years away, but lately, even when you’re totally in the mood, your vagina is more like the Sahara desert than the waterfall it used to be. While not typically the case, some women experience this distressing side effect from hormonal contraception.

4. Your vibrator won’t mess with your pacemaker:
No way do you want to tell your cardiologist that you are terrified that sex with your regular partner, “Bob” (AKA your “Battery Operated Boyfriend”) will cause a pacemaker malfunction. Rest assured, vulvar or vaginal vibration will not “unpace” your pacemaker.

5. Using vaseline as lubricant can cause recurrent vaginal infections.
Vaseline makes your chapped lips feel so much better, so it stands to reason that it would be the perfect product to keep your other lips moist as well. But unfortunately, petroleum jelly has been shown to double the chance of bacterial vaginosis, the most common cause of odor and irritating vaginal discharge. Instead reach for a silicone lubricant like Replens Silky Smooth when the time comes.

6. Infertility treatments don’t have to ruin your sex life.
You are not imagining it. Sex with a purpose, takes the sexy out. A 2012 study out of the Indiana University School of Public Health confirmed what most couples have already figured out — assisted reproductive techniques, especially IVF, cause problems with sexual desire, interest, and satisfaction. As expected, “mood-type symptoms” that could be attributed to the stress of going through fertility treatments, like sadness and anxiety, were huge, but the study also found that women had physical issues such as vaginal pain and dryness.

7. Taking estrogen is not equivalent to taking poison.
According to a recent global survey, estrogen could be your ticket back to a slippery, slidey sex life. But, for those who can’t or prefer not to take estrogen, plenty of alternatives are readily available at the local drugstore, so menopause can actually be the start of a better-than-ever sex life.

8. A clitoral vibrator might be the prescription your doctor should've given you at your last visit.
If the only thing you own that vibrates is your cell phone, it’s time to go shopping. Many older women (and younger women, too, for that matter) require additional intensity to achieve an orgasm. This is particularly the case if there is compromised blood flow from a medical condition, or just from normal changes that accompany aging. Not sure what to buy? Just ask me.

9. The female condom is underrated.
The female condom (FC2) not only prevents pregnancy and STDs, but also actually makes for sex better. The ring on the outside provides clitoral stimulation and the lubrication coats the vaginal walls.

10. Women with incontinence may also have painful sex or the inability to have an orgasm.
Not to mention the fear of peeing accidentally during sex.The culprit is weak, and/or sometimes painful pelvic floor muscles. And, yes, there are solutions that don’t involve surgery or diapers. (Kegels are a great place to start, for instance.)

11. Cancer survivors may need help salvaging their sex lives.
It’s the exceptional oncologist who gives you real solutions to deal with the physical AND emotional aftermath of chemotherapy, radiation, and early menopause. Self-esteem may be shaky, and reclaiming one's body after trauma is a simultaneously emotional and physical journey.
On a physiological level, I'll start by saying that it is safe to use vaginal estrogen even if you’ve had cancer; that said, some are uncomfortable using hormonal solutions for these changes in sex drive. In this case, there are equally good non-hormonal solutions available, so ask your doctor.

12. That funky smell coming from your vagina may just be a pH balance.
A number of triggers, including menstruation, intercourse or medications, can upset the vaginal ecosystem and elevate pH, causing an odor, an increase or change in vaginal discharge, or a bacterial infection. An effective remedy to these triggers is an over-the-counter vaginal pH-balancing gel (I recommend RepHresh) which can help you maintain a healthy vaginal pH for three days and can eliminate feminine odor.
Of course, there are toys, lubes, and devices that can take things to a whole new level, but it isn’t just about making sex pleasurable, it’s about how to make it possible. Every woman, regardless of age, should be able to enjoy fulfilling, exciting sex and overcome pain, lack of desire and lack of lubrication as a result her body's unique challenges.

13 Tips to Make a Good Relationship

 
1. Do the things you did the first year you were dating.
As the months and years roll on, we tend to slink into our proverbial sweatpants and get lazy in our relationship. We lose our patience, gentleness, thoughtfulness, understanding and the general effort we once made toward our mate. Think back to the first year of your relationship and write down all the things you used to do for your partner. Now start doing them again.
 
2. Ask for what you want.
Over time, we assume that our partner knows us so well that we don’t need to ask for what we want. What happens when we make this assumption? Expectations are set and just as quickly, they get deflated. Those unmet expectations can leave us questioning the viability of our partnership and connection. Keep in mind that “asking for what you want” extends to everything from emotional to sexual wants.
 
3. Become an expert on your partner.
Think about who your mate really is and what excites him or her (both physically and emotionally). We can become consumed by what WE THINK he/she wants, as opposed to tuning in to what truly resonates with the other person. Remember that if it’s important to your partner, it doesn’t have to make sense to you. You just have to do it.
 
4. Don't ask "how was your day."
At the end of a long day, we tend to mentally check out of our lives and consequently, our relationship. We rely on the standard question, “How was your day?” Generally, that boring question will yield a boring answer such as, “Fine, how was yours?” This does nothing to improve your connection and instead, can actually damage it because you're losing the opportunity to regularly connect in a small way.
Instead, try asking things like, “What made you smile today?” or “What was the most challenging part of your day?” You’ll be amazed at the answers you’ll get, with the added benefit of gaining greater insight into your significant other.
 
5. Create a weekly ritual to check in with one another.
It can be short or long but it begins with asking each other what worked and didn’t work about the previous week and what can be done to improve things this coming week. Additionally, use this opportunity to get on the same page with your schedules, plan a date night and talk about what you would like to see happen in the coming days, weeks, and months in your relationship. Without an intentional appointment to do a temperature check, unmet needs and resentments can build.
 
6. Keep it sexy.
What might change in your relationship if both you and your partner committed to increasing the behaviors you each find sexy and limiting those that aren’t? Think about this in the broadest form. “Sexy” can certainly refer to bedroom preferences, but it also represents what excites us about our mate in our day-to-day lives. Do you find it sexy if he/she helps with the housework? Do you find it "unsexy" when he/she uses the restroom with the door wide open? Talk about what it specifically means to "keep it sexy" in your relationship. Be amazed, be humored, be inspired!
 
7. Get creative about the time you spend together.
Break out of the “dinner and a movie” routine and watch how a little novelty can truly rejuvenate your relationship. On a budget and can’t go big? Jump on the internet to look for “cheap date ideas” and be blown away at the plethora of options. Can’t afford a sitter? Try swapping babysitting time with friends that have kids. It’s free and they will likely be thrilled to take your kids because they will get to take advantage when they drop their kids at your place.
 
8. Get it on.
Unless you have committed to an asexual partnership, sex, sexual contact and touching (kissing, holding hands, cuddling etc.) are vital components of a romantic relationship. The frequency is of course, up to you and it's imperative that you discuss your ideas about it in order to prevent resentment. Rare are the moments when both partners are “in the mood” at the exact same second, but that doesn’t mean that you have to decline their advances. Remind yourself that you will almost always “get there” after the first few minutes and that an intimate interaction of any kind builds connection and elevates your mood and health. Bear in mind that you are never required to say “yes.” If you truly don’t feel it, the best thing you can do is to postpone. Just make sure that you initiate or accept within a reasonable amount of time thereafter.
 
9. Take a (mental) vacation, everyday.
Life and work distractions can become paramount in our minds and that leaves little time or energy for our partner. Practice the art of “Wearing the Relationship Hat.” This means that (barring any emergencies or deadlines), we are fully present when we're with our mate. We truly hear what they are saying (instead of pretending to listen), we leave our distractions behind and we don’t pick them up again until the sun comes up and we walk out the door.
Some tips to improve communication
Sadly, we aren’t born with the innate ability to effectively communicate but it doesn’t mean that we can’t learn. Use the following techniques to better navigate and limit the tension in your relationship:
 
10. Take "fight breaks" when you need them.
Before you’ve hit the point of no return and as you see the stress beginning to escalate, one or both of you can call a break so that cooler heads can prevail. The crux of this tool lies in the fact that you must pick a specific time to revisit the conversation (I.e. 10 minutes from now, 2:00pm on Tuesday etc.) so that closure can be achieved.
 
11. Dig deep to unearth your true feelings.
In most disagreements, we communicate from the “Top Layer,” which are the obvious emotions such as anger, annoyance and the like. Leading from this place can create confusion, defensiveness and ultimately distract from the real issue. Start communicating from the “Bottom Layer” (i.e. What feelings are really driving your reactions such as disappointment, rejection, loneliness, disrespect etc.).
This type of expression creates an instant sense of empathy because it requires honesty and vulnerability to share from this space. Tension will dissipate and from here, solutions can spring. Just be sure to use kind, non-reactive phrasing when expressing these bottom layer feelings, such as “I felt hurt by…” as a replacement for “You’re such a jerk” etc.
 
12. Seek to understand ... not agree.
Easy in concept, difficult in application. Conversations quickly turn to arguments when we're invested in hearing our partner admit that we were right or when we are intent on changing his/her opinion. Choose to approach a conversation as an opportunity to understand your significant other’s perspective as opposed to waiting for them to concede. From this perspective, we have an interesting dialogue and prevent a blow out or lingering frustration.
 
13. Make your apology count.
It’s well understood that apologizing is a good thing but it only makes a real impact when you mean it. Saying things like “I’m sorry you feel that way” or “I’m sorry you see it that way” are a waste of time and breath. Even if you don’t agree that your action was wrong, you will never successfully argue a feeling.
Accept that your mate feels hurt and from this place, a real apology can have a significant impact. When you love your partner and hurt them (intentionally or not) you can always legitimately apologize for the pain you caused regardless of your perspective on what you did or didn’t do.
You are now, officially armed with the comprehensive exercise routine to fully reshape your relationship. Trim the fat and build your hottest relationship for life!

10 Strange Sex Facts

Endlessly fascinating and always controversial, there are a million and one ways to talk about sex. But we reckon even a seasoned sexpert would still be surprised by some of these random facts. Here Yeong Sassall lists the strange and downright crazy things we bet you didn't know about doing the deed. Prepare to be enlightened…

1. Male sperm can live up to 5 days

Male sperm is surprisingly resilient. Sperm inside a woman’s vagina can live in her cervical mucus or upper genital tract for 3-5 days. Provided the sperm remains alive, it may even be able to fertilise the egg, too. Sperm ejaculated outside the body is less tough – it can survive up to a few hours.

 2. Sometimes sex is a matter of life and death

If a female ferret doesn’t mate while she’s in heat, she can die! If she’s unable to find a sex partner and stays in heat too long, her body will start to secrete high levels of estrogen, which causes aplastic anemia – a deadly disease for ferrets

3. A man produces a mind-boggling amount of sperm

There’s plenty of male sperm to go around. And we mean plenty: One single guy produces enough sperm in two weeks to impregnate every fertile woman on the planet.

4. Sex can increase your pain threshold

Apparently the Divinyls were right – there is a fine line between pleasure and pain – at least during sex, that is. According to a study published in the Journal of Sex Research, when you’re aroused your pain threshold can increase significantly. It’s even better if you reach the big O – orgasms have been known to block pain by releasing a hormone which elevates your pain threshold.

5. Semen can be used as um, invisible ink

During World War I, members of the British Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) discovered you could use semen as invisible ink. Apparently, it didn’t react with iodine vapour (the main method used to detect invisible ink) and, as a bonus, it was also readily available. They stopped using it once they realised that it began to smell if it wasn’t, uh, fresh. Disturbing, but true!

6. We spend copious amounts of money on sex on the internet

Sex is big, big business. According to a 2005 study published in Sexual Addiction & Compulsivity, more than half of all spending on the internet is estimated to be related to sex. That’s a lot of porn and sex toys.

7. Sperm contains calories!

While spitting or swallowing semen is always a matter of personal preference, if you’re on a diet you may want to reconsider swallowing. Why? There are five calories in a teaspoon of semen.

8. There's a reason why it's hard to wee after sex

After you orgasm, your body releases an anti-diuretic hormone, which explains why you may have trouble urinating directly after sex. Stick with it though – going to the loo after sex helps to prevent urinary tract infections.

9. 10 percent of babies in Europe are conceived on one particular kind of bed

We all love an IKEA fix, especially the Europeans. So much that it’s estimated that one in 10 European babies were conceived on an IKEA bed. We wonder how many IKEA cot purchases that also equated to?

10. You can increase your bust size by having sex

Ladies, forget push-up bras – just get frisky instead. A woman’s breasts can swell up 25 per cent when she’s aroused. And about one per cent of women are able to orgasm through the stimulation of their breasts and nipples alone.

Building Health on a Budget: How to Eat Well Without Spending Much Money

                                          
There are lots of things that people can live without, but food is not one of them. Americans have an absolute love affair with fats, refined sugar and flour and other processed foods that continue to increase the numbers of citizens living with obesity, heart disease, diabetes and gastrointestinal maladies.
Jerome Stancil, a fitness trainer and founder of the social media consortium Nakidfine, said that the seductive lure of choosing a $1 double cheeseburger versus a $3 or $4 salad can be difficult to overcome. “As Americans, we prefer sugars and fat versus natural sugars and healthy fats like in fruits and almonds,” the married father of three said. “In my family, one of the more constant understandings is that we don’t eat fast food with the exception of reasonably priced chicken and salad at a restaurant on Sundays after church.”
The median income for a family of four in the United States was $48,561 per a Census Bureau report from 2006, but a 2012 Gallup survey says that Americans spend an average of $151 per week on groceries. Considering that organic vegetables are sometimes double the cost of fresh vegetables, how can a family stay within a reasonable budget without breaking the bank?
Shopping with a strategy can often help to keep a household from rolling the dice between eating or going without another necessity. For instance, the week of July 1, Kroger had a buy-10-items-and-save-$6-at-checkout special where Ronzoni pasta would be 49 cents and Ragu pasta sauce would be $1.19. Three boxes of pasta and three sauces together came out to be $5.04 during a test shopping trip. The only thing that needed to be added was a vegetable or a choice of meat.
Also, stores like Kroger and Ingles have extra value cards where coupons can be downloaded for use at checkout. For example, if there was a coupon for 40 cents off of two boxes of Ronzoni and it was a part of the “buy 6 sale,” then the customer’s total sale before taxes would be reduced to $4.64. Stancil said that, while he doesn’t use coupons often, he recognizes that people aren’t educated enough about their choices.
“The people with the best-looking bodies in the magazines and televisions have diets that are so restricted it is disturbing to some,” he said. “The ‘I can’t eat limits for them,’ the food must be prepared in advance and taken everywhere versus the average American who would like it hot, fresh, and in a paper bag. Now, if a person wanted to be 100 percent committed to buying healthy food choices they will run into the issue of pricing.”
The Maine Organic and Farmers Gardens Association compiled a list on its website that compares the price of organic produce to those grown where pesticides are used. A dozen eggs were $2.59 per dozen on average, but organic ones were $4.18. A head of romaine lettuce was regularly $1.78, but the organic was $3.54. While it may appear foolish to some to pay more for what appears to be the same grocery item, scientists have been stating for decades that prolonged exposure to pesticides or processed foods are linked to cancer and other diseases mentioned in a report by ABC News in April 2011.
Though most consumers hate reading food labels, they should also be aware of a 2011 report by NPR.org that stated that the average American consumes nearly 1,996 pounds of salt per year, which is largely from dense potatoes or other starches, sweets and cheeses. In a healthy diet, an adult should not consume more than 2,300 milligrams per day, but people have to actually look for the serving size to know how much the package actually contains.
Nicole Wesson, a special education teacher who resides in Douglasville, Georgia, said that planning a weekly menu, buying in bulk and watching out for weekly sales are some of the ways she keeps herself and her two children healthy without breaking the bank. “I think people complain about affordability of healthy food because organic food has a bad rap for being expensive,” she said. “Vegetables can be bought in bulk or at local markets which are much cheaper.”
Wesson also said making the weekly meal prep cuts down on the temptation to eat out, and, thus, exposes them less to fast food as an option. “A budget can be met because you’re only buying food for several meals,” she said. “Also, some days can be leftover meals, which saves on costs.”
In addition to cutting costs, DrWeil.com listed these 15 foods that consumers do not have to buy organic because they have the least exposure to pesticides: avocados, sweet corn, pineapples, cabbage, frozen sweet peas, onions, asparagus, mangoes, papayas, kiwi, eggplant, grapefruit, domestic cantaloupe, cauliflower and sweet potatoes.

How to Stop Your Cell Phone from Ruining Your Relationship

So you’re trying to have a decent conversation with your partner. They seem attentive until a noise from that shiny, flat object goes off. They quickly glance at the object, chuckle a bit then begin using their thumb to briskly type. In a few seconds, your conversation is over. Your partner can’t help it —it’s kryptonite.
You complain but they insist that they are listening to your every word. Unfortunately, you’re competing with a cell phone and you’re losing.
In a study by Joseph Grenny, author of Crucial Conversations, 87 percent of the 2,025 people surveyed reported that electronic displays of insensitivity (EDIs) – the intrusive or inappropriate use of technology – is worse today than a year ago. And nine out of 10 people say that at least once a week, their friends or family stop paying attention to them in favor of something happening on their digital device.
Unfortunately, one in four people say that EDIs have caused a serious rift with a friend or family member but suffer silently. Don’t let your cell phone habits harm your relationship by incorporating the strategies below.
Create Boundaries

We want to feel connected to the world all the time, but while doing so, we’re missing out on key moments with our partners. Implementing a ‘no cell phone’ policy during dinner or conversations will enhance your communication as well as help you become a better listener. In a poll surveying 143 women conducted by Dr. Brandon McDaniel and Dr. Sarah Coyne, one-quarter of the respondents said their partner has been known to text during face-to-face conversations.
“This is likely a circular process that people become trapped in where allowing technology to interfere, even in small ways, in one’s relationship at least sometimes causes conflict, which can begin to slowly erode the quality of their relationship,” said Dr. McDaniel.
Schedule Specific Time for Your Cell Phone
Since there will be times when you have to use your cell phone to check work email or to peruse articles, carve out time specifically for your cell phone (after the kids are in bed and after you and your partner spend quality time together). Even go a step further and give yourself an allotted amount of time per cell phone usage.
Save Important Conversations for a Face-to-Face Interaction

Stop having serious conversations with your partner via text. Texting should be used for concise communication like loving, flirtatious messages to your partner and not used for long, in-depth ones. In his article, ‘Why You Shouldn’t Text Your Argument’, John M. Grohol, Psy.D. states that “…the miscommunication and assumptions about what is being said will just start to pile on top of each other, confusing the receiver and adding even more miscommunication and hurt feelings into the mix.”
Alyssa Rachelle has been married for two years. She lives in the Atlanta area with her husband, 4-month-old daughter and 9-year-old Cocker Spaniel.

13-year-old CEO successfully runs 5-Employee, $200,000 in Sales Business

He is only 13, but he has accomplished more in his short years than most have by 30. His bow ties have produced $200,000 in sales, and he has five employees on payroll which include his mother and grandmother. Not to mention, he has been celebrated by Oprah’s O Magazine, Steve Harvey and mentor/FUBU founder Daymond John.

His name is Moziah Bridges and he is the CEO of Mo’s Bows. The teenage fashion designer started his company in 2011 at the tender age of nine when he asked his grandmother to teach him how to sew. He took her scraps of fabric and began making unique bow ties. Not long after, Mo’s Bows began selling to local stores and online.

On his website Bridges explains his passion for making bow ties saying, “I like to wear bow ties because they make me look good and feel good. Designing a colorful bow tie is just part of my vision to make the world a fun and happier place.”
And as his vision is becoming actualized, the Memphis native went a step further into philanthropy.
“I made this bow tie called the Go Mo! Scholarship Bow Tie and 100 percent of the proceeds go to help kids go to summer camp because I feel like it’s good to help the community and that’s what I’m doing,” Bridges said.

Bridges appeared on Shark Tank in 2014 to pitch Mo’s Bows to potential investors. He had to choose between accepting $50,000 for his innovative idea while sharing royalties with Kevin O’Leary, or have John as a mentor. The young businessman chose John’s influence over money, and so far the decision has proven to be a wise one.
With John, he attended Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York and impressed big names in fashion with his sophisticated demeanor and dapper style. What more could they expect from a kid carrying a briefcase? Bridges’s experience at Fashion Week garnered a phone call from Karen Katz CEO of Neiman Marcus. Mo’s Bows are now sold online at Neiman Marcus and Cole Hahn. His neckwear retails at around $50 and are available in 15 states, Toronto and the Bahamas.

He is very hands-on with the creation of Mo’s Bows. He chooses the design of each tie and his style is a myriad of polka-dots, bold stripes, funky paisleys, and sports themed ties. His sports ties opened a seat for Bridges at 2015 NBA Draft where he served as a fashion analyst for the draftees.
Moziah Bridges’ success is certainly engineered by his mother’s support. “You don’t have to wait until you’re older,” his mother Tramica Morris said. “If you have a dream and you have a passion, we say go for it.”

When is he older, his future with Mo’s Bows will be expansive. “I see Mo’s Bows adding neck ties, pocket squares and other accessories for men,” he wrote to FORBES. “I also want to get enough money to start a cool kids clothing company that has nice blazers and pants for kids who like to look good like me.”

On the website, Mo’s Bows now sells squares and t-shirts.

Today he is still managing school and making bow ties, but Bridges has plans to attend college and launch a full fashion line by age 20.