Chocolate: For the Mind, Body, and Soul
photo: Thinkstock/Hemera/Chocolate Heart
Chocolate is one of the greatest inventions of all time and it is often our go to treat when we’re searching for something to feed our soul. Fortunately, consuming moderate amounts of dark chocolate can actually benefit the body too. Research indicates that it can possibly decrease risk of stroke, lower blood pressure, and may have anti-cancer benefits. There may be a benefit to our mind also. Studies have shown that older adults performed better on cognitive tests after eating small portions of chocolate. This is all good news since the average American is estimated to consume approximately 11.7 pounds of chocolate a year!
For the Love of Sleep
photo: Thinkstock/istockphoto/Sleeping Tiger
Is there anything better than a great night sleep? Not only does it rest our body, it restores our mind and soul. We feel ready to take on a new day. Unfortunately, sleep deprivation is a huge problem in our society. It is estimated 70 million people suffer from a sleep disorder. Dr. Oz (we love him!) believes that lack of sleep is the single most overlooked health transgression in America. It can increase blood pressure, weaken the immune system, increase chance of cancers, and shorten life expectancy. There is also a direct correlation between sleep deprivation and obesity.
What does Dr. Oz recommend we do? Lower the temperature in our bedrooms, make sure all electronics are put away (nowhere near your bed), use orange light bulbs (they mimic the sun going down), and use herbal remedies if additional efforts are needed. He recommends a low dose (one milligram) of melatonin taken after dinner.
May you sleep like a newborn baby!
Laughter is Good Medicine
photo: Thinkstock/istockphoto/funny dog laughing
Dad always thought laughter was the best medicine, which I guess is why several of us died of tuberculosis. ~Jack Handey, “Deep Thoughts,”Saturday Night Live
According to HelpGuide.org, “Nothing works faster or more dependably to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh. Humor lightens your burdens, inspires hopes, connects you to others, and keeps you grounded, focused, and alert.”
Humor is infectious. Be sure to add some laughter to your life. It’s good for you and all those around you.
Create a Balanced Life
photo: Thinkstock/Hemera Collection
Creating a balanced, less stressful life is not always easy in our over-scheduled hectic everyday lifestyles. The following are a few tips to keep in mind when life gets a little too crazy:
* Learn to say NO – You don’t have to say yes to every request that comes your way. Establish your boundaries and have a firm but polite response waiting for that next request.
* Drop Activities – If you are currently engaged in non-essential activities that do not contribute to the inspired life you want to lead and they are sapping both your time and energy, drop them.
* Solitude/Quiet time – Even if you can only spare a few moments each day, take this time to recharge. Take a bath, go for a walk, write in a journal, meditate, whatever works for you.
* Connect with Nature – Visiting green spaces has a major calming effect on the human spirit, thereby reducing stress levels.
* Exercise – It’s hard to find the time but it is worth it. Not only is it good for your body, it boosts energy levels and the ability to concentrate, improves sleep patterns, and is said to increase feelings of happiness.
* Healthly Eating – Fuel for both the body and the mind. And you don’t have to totally deprive yourself either. Find healthy yummy foods (such as dark chocolate in moderation) that seem like a treat.
* Schedule Fun - Research indicates there are medical benefits to laughter – lower blood pressure, increased oxygenation of the blood, reduced stress hormones, and more. So get out there and HAVE FUN!
Benefits of Deep Breathing
Photo: thinkstock/photos.com
Benefits to Deep Breathing
* Relieves tension and the relaxes the Mind/Body
* Strengthens the lungs
* A more efficient release of toxins from the body
* Strengthens the immune system
* Increases blood quality
* Relieves some pain
Happiness from Pets
“There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.” – Ben Williams
One of the most beautiful things in the world is the unconditional love from a pet. It’s such a great feeling to walk in the door and have someone practically doing somersaults because they’re so happy to see you. And there are also many proven health benefits to having a pet:
* Decreased feelings of loneliness and depression (elevated levels of serotonin and dopamine).
* Increased opportunities for exercise and outdoor activity.
* Increased opportunities for socialization (date magnet, assist with elderly).
* Good for the heart – Research indicates pet owners have less sign of heart disease and a decrease in blood pressure.
Pets bring lots of love to the world. It would be difficult to imagine life without them.
Photo: Hemera collection/Thinkstock.com
WishHunt Transformation
We are excited to announce that WishHunt is currently undergoing a transformation so that we may soon provide you with lots of helpful tips, quotes, and inspirations to lead a healthier, happier, and more balanced lifestyle. We’ll be exploring how to improve every aspect of your mind, body, and soul through a combination of visuals and valuable tidbits. Topics will include happiness, nutrition, exercise, positive thinking, stress relief, meditation, retreats, sleep, yoga, reinvention, books, and lots more. We hope you’ll join us.
Photo: http://www.flickr.com/photos/goingslo/2468210139/in/set-72157603733328161
