Fruits, When Best to Eat Them

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Fuits, When Best To Eat Them

Fruits! I was just entering the door of my room after a hectic day’s work when I received a call from my father. He said he was calling to report my mother to me, and I was like, “Ha! Why me? Why not report her to your firstborn? Moreover, what has she done this time?” He said he was calling me to tell me that my mom never listens to what he says. Because he wanted to imbibe the culture of healthy living, He told me that that morning, momma ate a whole medium-sized pawpaw he brought in from the pawpaw tree in the house’s backyard immediately after her breakfast. Now, she is complaining of constipation at around 6 pm, the same day. He said he saw a WhatsApp broadcast that one is not supposed to eat fruits immediately after a meal as it causes a slowing emptying of the stomach that can lead to the food taking so longer in the stomach than usual that it can cause the food to start rotting slowly in the stomach. Due to the type of lifestyle we lived while I was still living at home, I asked to speak with momma, and she told me that I should not listen to my father, that she was not feeling constipated, that she was just a little problem passing out stool that she was not constipated at all. Dad was then complaining that she had not been to the toilet for “number 2” for the past 3 to 4 days and that she usually goes almost every other morning. What are the stories that are been told online? That your fruits should not be eaten after a meal because it causes more work for the digestive system and causes slow emptying? That you should not eat it on an empty stomach because you will not be able to utilize the nutrients in them. You should not eat your fruits towards the end of the day because it increases the acidity of your stomach and causes ulcers, and so on. My stand and take on all these? There is absolutely no human being on the face of the planet that should be restricted on their fruit intake only except if they have related disease conditions where they cannot digest the sugar present in them (sucrose) or there is the presence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and even in the case of DM, their intake is closely and strongly monitored, they are not completely restricted. There is no specific stipulated time for the consumption. Also, people diagnosed with duodenal ulcers are told to restrict their intake from the citric family, which includes orange, lemon, lime, grape, clementine, pomelo, tangelo, etc. You can take your fruits hours before your next meal, you can take them a few minutes before your next meal, a few minutes after your meal, the first meal of the day, the last meal of the day, as a snack, as a dessert, or whenever you see it fit. This is because there has been no scientific backing that their consumption at any time of the day negatively affects the digestion of your meal to such a large extent that will you need urgent medical attention. It is beneficial to the body to eat at least 2 servings daily as they contain vitamins and minerals, which are micronutrients needed by the body to help metabolize macronutrients in our main meals. Moreover, eating them combined with vegetables is usually termed as the soldiers of the body that help with the immune function of the body system to help the body fight against infections and illnesses. After a quick clerking of my mother, I asked about her 72-hour dietary recall, water intake, activity level, fruit intake, and general oral intake, including medications. My dear mother took a medication that helps stop stooling about 3 days ago because she had a job screening, she was so nervous that she had to medicate herself because she has a nervous stomach. So, after her screening, she had been eating fruits with all her meals. Just because, not even because she wanted to visit the toilet for “number 2”. My father just happened to notice that she had not been going to the toilet early in the morning like always. He was not aware that she had medicated herself. So, it was never about how and when she ate her fruits. If you notice that after eating a particular fruit, you get a running stomach or start to pass watery stool frequently, you should refrain from eating the specified fruit. My Rendition of the Essay. Are you caught in the endless cycle of confusion about the “right” time to eat them? It’s time to clear the air and debunk the myths that have long dictated our fruit consumption habits. The widespread misconceptions about eating fruits only at certain times of the day have led to unnecessary dietary restrictions and anxiety. Here’s why these myths are unfounded and detrimental to our health and well-being. Myth 1: Don’t Eat Fruits Right After Meals The belief that consuming them immediately after meals slows down digestion and leads to food rotting in the stomach is a myth that lacks scientific evidence. Our digestive system is well-equipped to handle various foods, including fruits, regardless of the timing. Myth 2: Avoid Fruits on an Empty Stomach Another popular myth suggests that eating fruits on an empty stomach is harmful and prevents nutrient absorption. This myth is not entirely true. Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber; the body can utilize these nutrients effectively, whether consumed on an empty stomach or not. Myth 3: Eating Fruits at Night Causes Acidity The idea that consuming fruits towards the end of the day increases stomach acidity and leads to ulcers is another unfounded claim. Fruits are generally alkaline and can help neutralize acidity in the body, not cause it. The Reality: Fruits are Flexible Friends The truth is, … Read more

The Secret to Having An Improved Quality Life

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The Secret to Having An Improved Quality Life

Quality life occurs as a result of the small decisions we make for ourselves every day. The secret to having a perfect day is knowing that it starts the night before. Usually, a perfect day translates to a productive day, right? Ticking tasks off your to-do lists and revelling in the satisfaction that comes with it. Below are things you can do to improve the quality of your life daily: Do away with your phone 30 minutes before you sleep. I know we can’t tell when we fall asleep but hear me out. You might have fixed your sleep time to 10 pm. So by 9:30 pm, ensure your phone isn’t in your hand. Silence it too so you won’t be tempted by notification pings. Even if you don’t have a fixed bedtime, your body will tell you it’s tired, it needs rest and that’s what you’ll work with. When you’re on your bed, try to recount how you spent your day, what you did well, what you need to improve on, and so on. When you wake up in the morning, DON’T TAKE YOUR PHONE IMMEDIATELY! I had to yell that, I’m sorry. Instead, grab a notepad and your pen, write down all the things you hope to accomplish, and time-box them. Here are examples of what that should look like; Pray – 6:00 am Brush my teeth immediately after praying Change into my exercise clothes immediately after brushing my teeth and do 20 jumping jacks Breakfast Wash my toilet Check my mail – 4:00 pm Zoom meeting – 5:30 pm If at any point I feel idle and catch myself about to start/scrolling through my phone with no purpose, here are things I can do: Open the Udemy app and catch up on my online course Write a linked-in article Send cold emails Tidy up my room Fold my laundry I hope I’ve been able to encourage you from what I’ve written so far to start keeping a to-do list. But when you’re writing it, keep these things in mind; Make your goals clear and specific. You can add extra columns to yours; “What? Why? When?” like in the example below ???? WHAT? WHY? WHEN? ·       Read economics note ·       Because I have a test next week ·       As soon as I wake up from my nap ·       Tidy my room ·       Because I feel happier when my space is clean ·       At 10:30 am ·       Call my mum ·       Because it makes her happy ·       At 5 pm   Be realistic with your time and effort. If you write 20 tasks and each of them will take 2 hours on average, not only is it impossible for you to finish it, but you might also feel overwhelmed and disappointed with yourself when you see there are still lots of things you haven’t done. Nothing is too silly to be on your list. This is about you, no one else. It’d be more effective if you write it on a piece of paper and pin it on the wall in a central location. this way, whenever you pass by it, you review it. Mark the ones that have been done, and note the remaining ones. Lastly, if you’re a believer, you must engage in an act called ‘Shukr’. Shukr means ‘Thanks’. It’s just acknowledging your helplessness and giving full credit to God for the gift of life and making it easy for you to achieve all you’ve accomplished. Then pray for Him to make you consistent and bless you in it. READ ALSO: 10 Habits That Will Change Your Life Positively WHEW! That was a lot, but I hope you get the idea. Everything boils down to discipline and self-awareness. Most times, our phones are nothing but a mere distraction and source of anxiety so if we can all learn to detach our souls from it, there would certainly be great improvement in the quality of life.

Climate Change In Nigeria And Its Remarkable Impact In Agriculture

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CLIMATE CHANGE IN NIGERIA AND ITS REMARKABLE IMPACT IN AGRICULTURE

Globally, climate change has impacted the world in remarkable ways from global warming to drastic changes in weather conditions, natural disasters to say but a few.In this article our focus will be on climate change in Nigeria and its remarkable impact in Agriculture i.e.; how it has adversely affected agricultural production. Climate change is defined by World Bank as the significant variation of average weather conditions becoming for example warmer, wetter or drier- over several decades or longer. United Nations refers to it as the long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. According to Price Water Coopers (PWC), Nigeria became committed to the Climate Change Crusade after attending the 2021 UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) which took place between 31st October to 13th November 2021 in Glasgow; committing to achieving net-zero by 2060. Her government after the COP26 signed into law the Climate Change Act, 2021 which was passed by the National Assembly in October 2021. The purpose of the law is to develop and implement mechanisms that will foster low carbon emission and develop a sustainable environment in the country. Pre-Climate Change Act, 2011, unregulated activates such as gas flaring, bush burning, carbon monoxide emission, etc. from refineries, rigs, farming activities, exhaust of cars and burning tyres in abattoirs has depleted the ozone layer significantly. As a result we experience changes in weather conditions (hotter or wetter, etc.) which in the long run affected agriculture negatively. Nigeria has two seasons: rainy and dry season. Before the adverse implication of climate changes, rainy season begins from April – September with July being the peak of the rains and a two week August break and Dry season starting from October to March. Coastal areas usually experience shorter dry seasons and longer rainy season and vice versa for desert areas. Today however, climate change has altered the seasons remarkably. More recently we don’t see rains sometimes till May and April is the peak of the heat; the peak of the rains now is August with the breaks now in September. CAUSES OF CLIMATE CHANGE Climate Change can be caused by either natural or human factors. The activities of man most especially during the industrial revolution has released large amounts of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere which has in turn caused global warming in our world. These causes include: Green House Gases emission: Examples are Carbon dioxide, methane and nitrous oxide. These greenhouse gas has increased the greenhouse effect and caused the earth’s surface temperature to rise. Carbon dioxide (CO2): Apart from humans exhaling carbon dioxide, man’s activities like burning coal, oil or natural gas has led to CO2 emission. Reflectivity or Absorption of the Sun’s Energy: This is caused by activities such as agriculture, road construction, deforestation and emissions of small particles (aerosol) into the air. The Earth changing its orbit and rotation. Solar activity variations. Volcanic Eruptions: This can throw Sulphur dioxide (SO2) into the atmosphere. Changes in the ocean’s current. CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS REMARKABLE IMPACT IN AGRICULTURE In Nigeria, the climate change has led to several harmful effects which in turn has affected agricultural production and these effects include: Increase in heat – related mortality, dehydration, and spread of infectious diseases (meningitis). Rising Ocean current, sea levels, fluctuating rainfall has resulted in flooding mostly in the coastal regions in Nigeria. Cancer of the skin as a result of the harsh weather conditions. Hunger, starvation and death as a result of food shortage. Climate change is a threat to Nigerian Food Security because of the unpredictable length and onset of the farming season which has in turn affecting both subsistence and commercial farmers. Nigeria still practices rain fed agriculture. Rain Fed Agriculture is a practice where farmers depend on weather conditions to begin the onset of farming. As a result of this practice, it has rendered her vulnerable to the adverse effect of climate change which includes, soil degradation which resulted in low crop yields. Rain fed Agriculture practice in Nigeria make farmers wait for the rains before the onset of farming and this in turn has led to shortage in food supply, hunger, inflation, pest infestation to mention but a few. Deforestation activities has increased erosion most especially in sloppy areas, leading to depletion in the soil’s nutrients and in turn causing poor farm yield. Climate change causes (greenhouse gases, Sulphur dioxide, etc.) has deposited unhealthy substances in our soil which in turn has caused the underwater layer to be polluted and then resulting in poor agricultural yields. Flooding one of the effects of climate change has made farmers to lose their farm produce which has led to pollution, pest and insect infestation, hunger, starvation and death. With conscious efforts from our government to implement the net-zero by 2060 and the adoption of best practices to reduce the effect of climate change and its remarkable impact in Agriculture, Nigeria can become a giant of Africa in all ramification. Also read: WORK HABITS AND ITS AMAZING EFFECT ON THE HEALTH OF THE EYES. https://thereadywriters.uk/work-habits-health-of-the-eyes/

Healthy Ways of Burning Fat in the Body (Part 1)

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Healthy Ways of Burning Fat in the Body (Par

I want to prepare your mind before reading this article that you should not expect a mysterious n immediate miracle, yes! You!! God works in a way but never forget that while you pray, you work because prayer without hard work is fruitless. You should be committed to your workout or diet series before expecting a result. Don’t expect to see “how to slim down in 60 days.” Presently, more than 80% of humans are battling with loosing fat, not only stomach, common parts of our bodies. It is sad to see people easily scammed by loose fat in a week without going to the gym, of course it may work for some people, but not all. Before I go further, I would advice that you know what works best for, what your body likes, hates, and cannot accommodate. You should treat your body with utmost care the same way you value your skin and how it looks. Jim Rohn said: “Take care of your body. It’s the only place you have to live.” Also, be selective of the information you entertain. We are told that the internet has all the needed information but we must sieve and not act on all. The Honest and Healthy ways to lose fat, which have been proven genuine. They include: • Try Intermittent Fasting: Intermittent fasting (IF) involves short period of fasts and consuming little meals during the day. Several Studies Trusted Source have shown that short-term intermittent fasting which lasts for 24 weeks duration, leads to weight in an individual. The most common IF methods are: a. The 5:2 Diet: Fast on 2/3 out of every 7 days. It is advisable to eat 500-600 calories when fasting. b. The 16/8 method: Fast for 16 hours and eat only during an 8-hour window. For most people, the 8-hour window would be around noon to 8 p.m. c. Alternate Day Fasting Trust Source (ADF): Here, it is advisable to eat a typical meal on non-fasting days and fast every other day(s). More so, there are great apps which are helpful when doing an intermittent fast. • Get Enough Sleep: Studies have shown that sufficient sleep helps maintain a healthy weight. Going to bed early and setting alarm to wake up a bit late is effective for a healthy weight. Also, little research has shown that sleeping for about 1 hour per night leads to weight loss in people. While some object that lack of sleep may contribute to alterations in hunger hormones, increased appetite, and a higher risk of obesity. As I earlier said, you should know what works best for you. Everyone needs a different amount of sleep, at least 7 hours of sleep per night beneficial for weight management. I would advise you stick to a regular sleep schedule, limit your intake of caffeine in the evening, and minimize your use of electronic devices before bed. • Begin a Strength Training Plan: This kind of exercise helps muscles contract against resistance. It increases strength and builds muscles, it mostly requires lifting weights. Studies reveals that strength training has numerous health benefits, particularly loss of fat. Doing bodyweight exercises, lifting weights, and using gym equipment are a few easy ways to get started with strength training. • Have an Eating Plan: You need to pick and stick to a healthy eating plan. The benefit of a low-carb approach is that it involves learning better food choices, no calorie counting is necessary. Generally, a low-carb way of eating shifts your intake away from problem foods, those high in carbs, and sugar, and without much fiber, like bread, and sodas. Conclusion There are endless things to do to lose fat, which I will further discuss in my subsequent articles. The brutal truth is losing fat is not easy, but with consistency you will get a great result.  

League of Kingdoms Drago: Play-to-Earn Gaming Guide for Beginners

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league of kingdoms drago nfts gaming.jpg

In the dynamic world of NFTs play-to-earn (P2E) gaming, League of Kingdoms Drago NFTs game garnered the prestigious feat of being featured on Opensea gaming spotlight this month, which is a testament to its meteoric rise and enduring appeal. In October 2023, the game generated over $1 million in trading volume on OpenSea. It has been ranked among the top games with a floor price of 74.98 MATIC and a total volume of 833ETH. Legend of Kingdoms Drago is a top 10 game in terms of trading volume on the platform. The popularity and success of the game can be attributed to its innovative play-to-earn model, Dragos, its high-quality graphics and gameplay, and its strong community to promote the game. Opensea spotlight is a monthly feature displayed on the website showcasing the most popular and latest gaming NFTs. Opensea is the largest NFTs marketplace. Every month, Opensea selects a few games on the marketplace with high sales volume, unique gameplay, or innovative design, and highlights them on their blog and social media channels. The goal of having an Opensea gaming spotlight is to promote diversity and creativity of the gaming NFT community and to inspire more developers and players to join the blockchain gaming revolution. What is League of Kingdoms Drago? The League of Kingdoms Drago is a blockchain-based game designed to allow players to collect, breed, and battle dragon-like creatures called Dragos. The game is an MMO strategy game where gamers fight for dominion. Dragos are dragon-like creatures dwelling in the continents of the League of Kingdoms. Historically, Dragos have been tamed by royal courts, and they make great companions, guardians, and friends to mankind. In League of Kingdoms Drago, the Dragos are NFTs with different parts, stats, and elemental types, and can be used to mine Dragon Soul Amber (DSA), a special gem that can be minted as Dragon Soul Token (DST), the in-game currency. How to play and earn with Dragos? In the game, players can use their Dragos to join the Drago Arena. In the Arena, they can compete with other players’ Dragos, or the Magdar Rally, where they can fight against a powerful boss. Dragos have unique qualities that can be used in the game. Dragos can be used to give buffs to the player’s kingdom and troops in the Players can use Dragos to breed up to seven times, and each breeding requires another in-game token known as DST and LOKA. Dragos can be traded with other players on the OpenSea marketplace or rented to earn passive income. Through the Drago Genesis events, Dragos are generated. The player can choose two Drago parents and pay a fee to mint a Drago egg. Why is the game so popular? The Legend of Kingdoms Drago has shown strong growth and is one of the most popular play-to-earn games on the market. The average price of a Legend of Kingdoms NFT asset is $100, and the most popular type of NFT asset is land. With a large and active community of players, the game has excelled. The Opensea marketplace describes the Legend of Kingdoms as “a true play-to-earn game that allows players to own and trade their in-game assets. This is a revolutionary concept that has the potential to change the gaming industry.” Expert gamers like Cryptozilla, KiwaraNFT, and NFTGamer have attributed the Legend of Kingdoms game and community as engaging, interactive, and profitable “Legend of Kingdoms is one of the most strategic and engaging play-to-earn games I’ve ever played.” “The game’s economy is very well-balanced, and there are many different ways to earn money.” “The community of Legend of Kingdoms is very welcoming and helpful. There are always people willing to answer questions and give advice.” Conclusion Legend of Kingdoms Drago is a beacon of innovation and creativity. The ever-changing world of gaming continues to grow and develop. Like Legend of Kingdoms innovation of Dragos, the future of gaming is shaped, and players are empowered to become active participants. The players get involved in the creation and monetization of their virtual experiences. Start playing League of Kingdoms Drago today!     Play-to-Earn Gaming Guide: https://www.playtoearn.online/guide Blockchain Gaming Guide: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/blockchain-gaming-complete-guide-2022-jesse-anglen NFT Gaming Guide: https://www.gaming.net/beginners-guide-to-nfts-and-gaming How to Make Money Playing League of Kingdoms Drago: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=C3OIvghhqNA Best League of Kingdoms Drago NFTs: https://opensea.io/collection/lokdrag

Master the Crypto Gaming Market with In-Game NFTs

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Crypto Gaming

Have you ever considered having fun and earning in the same space. Sound fun, right? NFTs are rising digital assets in the crypto world, and this is how you can use In-Game NFTs or also known as Crypto Gaming. What are NFTs? NFTs stand for non-fungible tokens, which are digital assets stored on a blockchain that can’t be copied, substituted, or changed. A blockchain is a digital ledger that securely stores and tracks transactions and assets. What are In-Game NFTs or Crypto Gaming? There are many blockchain technologies that support in-game NFTs. NFT games are similar to traditional video games, where players can sell, trade, and buy items for in-game currency. NFT games also allow players to transfer their earnings to other games and exchange it with other players with cryptocurrency. Know How NFTs Games or Crypto Gaming Work The developers of the game used smart contracts to create the game. It is  a unique contract designed using blockchain technology. The game uses non-fungible tokens to provide a foundation for how players interact, the rules, and how players move in the game. A user can use NFT to create a character or find, create, buy, or trade NFTs within the game to play. Benefits of In-Game NFTs or Crypto Gaming Security There is an assured security when using in-game NFTs. Blockchain technology provides security, ensuring their validity and authenticity. Don’t be scared to play. Blockchain technology also prevents fraud, duplication, or theft of digital assets. Players can enjoy access by verifying the history and ownership of any NFT on the blockchain. So be sure of safety and fun. Customization The in-game NFTs allow players to personalize their gaming experience by creating and acquiring unique digital items and characters. Fun right? The effect of the items and characters is to reflect the player’s identity, preferences, and style. The In-Game NFTs can also enhance the gameplay by providing different abilities, skills, or features. Monetization The fun of in-game NFTs is that it can be a source of income for players. They can earn cryptocurrency and NFT rewards by playing games. Players can monetize their in-game achievements and assets by selling them on marketplaces or platforms that support NFT trading. True ownership In-game NFTs are tied to your address on the blockchain, not the game. This means that you have full control over your digital assets and can use them as you wish. You can sell, trade, display, or lend your NFTs to other players or platforms. You can also transfer your NFTs across different games or metaverses, as long as they are compatible.   Successful Crypto Gaming Platforms Axie Infinity: This is a popular play-to earn-game. Players can breed, battle, and trade Axies, which can be represented as NFTs. The Sandbox: it is a metaverse game where players create, own, and monetize their gaming experience. Decentraland: this another metaverse game with real estate feature. It is where players can buy, sell, and build lands, estate, and digital assets. Leagues of Kingdoms Drago: this is a blockchain-based game that allows players to collect, breed, and battle dragon-like creatures called Dragos Gods Unchained: in Gods Unchained, the free-to-play trading card game allow players to collect, trade, and battle cards that are represented by NFTs. CryptoKitties: this is one of the first popular NFT games, and is still popular today. Players can breed, collect, and trade CryptoKitties, which are digital cats that are represented by NFTs. Illuvium: Illuvium is an upcoming open-world RPG game. Here, players can collect, battle, and fuse Illuvials, which are digital creatures that are represented by NFTs. Gala Games: this platform hosts a variety of play-to-earn games, including Town Star, Spider Tanks, and Mirandus. These are a few of many successful crypto games available today. As the crypto gaming industry keeps growing, we can expect to see more innovative and exciting games emerge in the future.

Remote work and the future of the workplace 

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  Remote work, also known as work-from-home, is a common practice today. It is a flexible work system that allows employees to work from any location outside corporate offices, provided there is a reliable internet connection. Over the past years, there has been a shift from the traditional hybrid system to a more remote system. More companies and organisations are now embracing the evolution of working remotely. The 2020 pandemic pushed the world into remote mode and is now permanent. In the earlier stages, it was unclear if businesses would thrive remotely and what the impact would be on the economy. However, as the coast became clear, the reality of remote work became clear to everyone. Companies can now tap into the benefits like never before. The future of working remotely is exciting as the rise in technological tools and applications has been designed to make work easier. This makes it very clear that remote work is more permanent and temporary. This era of working remotely comes with many opportunities for job seekers, freelancers, contract workers and permanent workers. Remote jobs have created an endless chain of employment in the job market open to all and sundry. Companies are not left out as it has allowed them to tap into the benefits like never before. It also allows companies and businesses to build diversity, be more agile and expand their business strategies.   Benefits of Working Remotely It saves time and money Working remotely saves money and time. Looking at the current economic situation and the rising cost of living, it is much cheaper to work remotely than physically or on-site. It also helps reduce regular fatigue and burnout while promoting relaxation and decompression. Working remotely allows individuals to spend more time with their loved ones. 2. Autonomy and Flexibility More than 50% of employers give their employees the freedom to choose their work schedules irrespective of distance or location. Therefore, individuals can personalise their work schedules to fit their immediate needs. This promotes better employee satisfaction, provided it does not interfere with job performance.   3. Increased Productivity and Work Quality There is an increase in work productivity that stems from the fact that individuals are more focused because they can concentrate more on their tasks without interruptions. There is also an increase in work quality as individuals work from their comfort zones with minimal distractions. 4. Move or relocate Remote jobs offer the freedom to move or relocate without negatively impacting their employment status. This allows employees to move closer to their friends and families or to a better-suited environment. The Future of the Workplace The rise of remote work has changed the dynamics of the work system. This implies that working remotely will become the new norm rather than an exception. It allows employees more access to other opportunities, such as combining two or more jobs that align with their professional or personal goals. Finally, it encourages individuals to have a more inclusive work culture with people from different backgrounds, ethnicities and locations inputting in their viewpoints and ideas on work issues.   Conclusion Remote work has come to stay permanently and is finding the future of the workplace. The benefits of working remotely are mouth-watering and allowing employees to focus on other important things, be flexible and have control over their lives. Business organisations can now cut down their costs of spending and improve productivity. Finally, as remote work continues to evolve, it is important to stay up to date with the latest remote work trends to be successful in there job market.      

Five Vital Strategies for Managing and Defeating Social Phobia

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Five Vital Strategies for Managing and Defeating Social Phobia

Imagine you are standing in a room filled with people; everyone is quiet expecting you to present your speech to them. Without looking at their faces, you can feel their eyes peering into your skin. All of a sudden, your heart begins to race, your palms get very sweaty, and your mind races with a thousand worries. Your mind goes blank and you can’t seem to remember any of the things you had planned to say. Apparently, this is not the first time it’s happening to you. You always feel judged, very self-conscious and you avoid meeting new people due to persistent fear and anxiety. This problem has made it quite difficult for you to do normal tasks like interacting with people at work or in school. At this stage, you are exhibiting signs of what is known as social phobia. What is Social Phobia? Social Phobia, also known as Social Anxiety Disorder is a debilitating mental health condition characterized by an intense and irrational fear of social situations and the constant dread of negative judgment. It extends far beyond the usual pre-presentation jitters or mild embarrassment. It often remains hidden beneath a calm exterior. This phobia is one of the most common mental disorders that can affect anyone. It begins between ages 11 and 19 years, and it could continue for years to affect one’s proper functioning in the society if not properly treated. This disorder may resemble extreme shyness, but it isn’t mere shyness. For some, this fear is limited to one or two particular situations, like speaking in public or initiating a conversation. Others are very anxious and afraid of any social situation. These situations can include dating, making eye contact, entering rooms, using public restrooms, going to parties, eating in front of other people, going to school or starting conversations. Someone who has social phobia can also exhibit physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, dizziness and lightheadedness, blushing, crying, sweating, stomach trouble and diarrhea, heavy breathing and so on. Such a person might start having these symptoms before the event or might spend weeks worrying about it. Afterward, he/she would spend weeks worrying about how he/she performed at the event. What causes Social Phobia? The exact causes of social phobia are multifaceted and can include: Genetics: Research suggests a genetic component in social anxiety, where the disorder may run in families. Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin may play a role in the development of social phobia. Environmental Factors: Traumatic or humiliating social experiences in the past can contribute to the onset of social phobia. Learned Behavior: Observing others’ social anxiety or experiencing overprotective parenting may increase the risk of social phobia. Strategies for Managing Social Phobia            Fortunately, there are strategies and treatments that can help individuals with this anxiety disorder regain control over their lives: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This helps individuals identify and challenge irrational thoughts and beliefs about social situations. It teaches coping mechanisms to reduce anxiety and improve self-confidence. It can also help you learn and practice social skills; it is a gold standard for psychotherapy. Exposure Therapy: Gradual exposure to feared social situations, under the guidance of a therapist, helps individuals build tolerance and reduce anxiety over time. Medication: In some cases, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to manage symptoms. This is commonly used to treat depression, but they can also help treat the symptoms of social phobia. Support Groups: Sharing experiences with others who have social phobia can provide a sense of community and understanding. In a group of people struggling with this disorder, you can receive unbiased, honest feedback about how others in the group see you. This way, you can learn that your thoughts about judgment and rejection are not true or are distorted. Self-Care and Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and stress-reduction techniques can all contribute to managing social anxiety. Social Phobia is a common but often misunderstood condition. It is not just a minor personality quirk but a real and debilitating mental health condition. By relating it to everyday scenarios, we can begin to empathize with the challenges faced by individuals living with social phobia. Awareness, support, and effective treatments are essential in helping those affected regain their confidence, build meaningful relationships, and lead fulfilling lives. By recognizing and addressing this invisible struggle, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive society. If you are experiencing social phobia symptoms, have an honest conversation about how you’re feeling with someone you trust. If it continues to affect your school or work life, talk to a health care provider about your mental health.

The Magic of Laughter: How Smiles Spark Happiness

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The Magic of Laughter: How Smiles Spark Happiness

Did you know that everybody laughs in almost exactly the same way? Robert Province, a neuroscientist and professor of psychology while observing humans, discovered that when we laugh, we have a short burst of sound about a fifteenth of a second long. If we try changing the rules of laughter, it suddenly doesn’t sound like laughter anymore. Laughter is similar to a secret love language we all share. It’s a special way we connect and feel joy together. Did you know that laughter does more than just make us happy? It actually helps our minds and hearts stay healthy. Let’s take a closer look at how laughter and humor can make us feel better inside. Importance of Laughter It lifts our Mood and makes us Feel Good: When we laugh, our brains release special chemicals that make us feel happy. It’s like a tiny party happening inside our heads! These chemicals, called dopamine and endorphins, help lift our moods and make us feel good. It makes us Work Better: Laughter also makes our brains work better. It’s like a workout for our minds! When we laugh, different parts of our brains start talking to each other, helping us think in creative ways. So, not only does it make us feel happy, it also makes our brains super smart! It defeats Stress: Have you ever noticed that after a good laugh, you feel relaxed and happy? That’s because laughter is like a superhero that fights against stress. When we laugh, our bodies chill out, and stress hormones (the things that make us feel worried) take a break. It strengthens our Immune System: It is like a superhero for our immune system. It helps our bodies make more immune cells, the ones that keep us healthy. So, by laughing, we’re not just having fun; we’re also making our bodies stronger! Research also proves that 10 to 15 minutes of daily laughing burns 10 to 40 calories. It helps us Handle Tough Times: Think about a time when you found something funny during a not-so-great moment. It’s like a little light in the darkness, right? Humor is like a special tool that helps us handle tough situations. When we find something funny in a challenging moment, it’s like our minds take a break from feeling upset. Humor is like a friend that helps us see things differently. Instead of feeling really serious, we can laugh a little and feel a bit better. So, next time you’re going through a tough time, try finding something funny—it might just make things a bit easier to handle! It brings People Together: Have you ever noticed how laughter brings people together? When we laugh with others, it’s like we’re sharing a special secret. It helps us feel close to the people around us. It’s not just about the laugh we have in the moment; it’s also about how it helps us make good friends. When we share a laugh, it’s like we’re saying, “We’re in this together!” Laughter makes our friendships stronger and helps us feel like we belong. In the end, laughter is like a magical song that makes us feel happy and healthy. It’s not just a sound we make when something is funny; it’s a special way we connect with others and ourselves. So, next time you hear laughter, join in! Whether it’s a big belly laugh or a tiny giggle, know that you’re not just having fun—you’re also giving your mind and heart a little gift. In the song of life, let laughter be the tune that makes your days brighter and your heart lighter!

5 Ways to Recognizing Failure as a Path to Attaining Success

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Recognizing Failure as a Path to Attaining Success

Failure is not the end of the road but the beginning of success. Whether in business, parenting, relationships, or career, everybody sometimes experiences failure. Most people who are successful today have experienced failure, sometimes several times, and still succeeded. It is a stepping stone to achieving success. “Do not be embarrassed by your failures, learn from them and start again.”-  Richard Branson Though failure can be disheartening, we must not give up because it is part of life. We learn from our mistakes and setbacks. Once we know not to dwell on this, our lives will change dramatically, and we will realize that it is a stepping stone to success. We should understand that a person’s destination doesn’t define him; what matters is how long it takes him to reach the goal. Failure provides us with an opportunity to learn and grow. It teaches us to be positive even when things seems tough. When you experience a setback, always believe that you will bounce back. It doesn’t mean the end of the road. Always accept it anytime it keeps knocking, knowing it is a way to your success and moving your life forward to greatness. When you experience failure, it is an opportunity to build emotional resilience. It is a learning experience; instead of seeing it as a painful time, I see it as a step toward success. We will examine a few ways to overcome failure positively. 5 Ways to Work Through Failure In A Positive Way 1. Maintain a Growth Mindset. Focusing on a growth mindset means seeing failure as a stepping stone rather than a roadblock. Failure should always be viewed as an opportunity to learn, adapt to circumstances, and learn from mistakes. Having a growth mindset will prompt us to reevaluate our strategies, identify our weaknesses, and gain insight to help us make better decisions in life. 2. Embrace Failure When we embrace failure, it will propel us to think positively about failure. To do that, we should admit our mistakes, learn from other people’s mistakes, and study how others experience loss in their path to success. We must also celebrate failure as part of the learning and growth process. We must also understand that it is an opportunity to develop strength and determination to overcome challenges we may encounter in the future. 3. Cultivating Resilience Resilience is the greatest lesson failure has on humans. It allows us to see it as a stepping stone, not a roadblock that thwarts our advancements. When we experience setbacks, difficulties, or obstacles, failure helps us develop the strength to bounce back; no matter what we face, this will lead us to make better decisions in life. To conquer it, we must be willing to examine our actions and use the knowledge to move ahead with determination. We must build resilience and accept it as a possibility for personal growth instead of downfall. 4. Learn from Failure We must learn from it as it is a stepping stone to recognizing our hurdles and assists us in understanding the areas in which we need improvement. Knowing that will compel us to gain insight that can shape our future. We should also learn from those who experienced failure on the path to achieving success. It will also encourage us to stand firm amid collapse.  5. Building Character Failure should be seen as an opportunity to shape our character, establish strength, and be persistent, enabling us to succeed. Through failure, we understand who we are and how we react to situations around us. It influences us to contend with our flaws, establishing stability and determination to build our character.  Failure exposes us to life lessons: humility and tolerance, and we need to be determined and face reality in life. Final Thought Without failure, there should be no success. We must not give up. We learn from our mistakes, and when we correct those mistakes, we are getting one step closer to our success. We must keep striving until we achieve success in life. We should not avoid failure or be afraid of it.  We need to embrace it as a segment on the way to success. Changing our view and accepting failure as an opportunity for expansion will help us attain our full potential to work toward personal and career success.  Nevertheless, let us celebrate and embrace failure as a stepping stone to our success.  “Remember, failure is not the end of the road, but the beginning of success.”