Recognizing Seasonal Affective Disorder: Getting Relief From SAD

Recognizing Seasonal Affective Disorder: Getting Relief From SAD

One more gray day looms large, yes it's that time of year and if you are one of the 5% of the people living in the northern hemisphere that experience from S.A.D or Seasonal Affective Disorder your life can be pretty depressing at the moment. The feelings usually start in the Autumn season and carry on throughout until Spring. It is recognized that up to half a million folks in the United States could be suffering from S.A.D however not everyone knows they have it as the symptoms are quite quite often mistaken for conditions like depression or insomnia amongst others.

Younger women seem to be worst affected however they are more likely to seek a doctors advice so that could be why. Symptoms include a general feeling of being down, irritability, mood swings, poor sleep patterns and loss of appetite which swings towards binging and over indulgence.

So how can you help alleviate the condition?
There are aspects of your daily routine that you can change to offset the affects of Seasonal Affective Disorder that can really help you, such as:

Getting outside as much as possible when the days are just that bit brighter as the more daylight you are subjected to the better you will feel.If you're lucky you could get a day when the sun shines, if that is the case make the most of it, go sit in it for a while.

Try to make your working environment as bright possible, try moving your desk closer to the window, Take regular breaks, and if possible take your lunch break away from your office.

If you are a homeworker try to build a routine which will allow you to get out of the house at least once a day.

Using a light therapy lamp to simulate daylight. You can purchase them online and aren't too expensive. Light Therapy Lamps have been proven to make a difference. Simply use it in the background fro thirty minutes a day and you will feel so much better.

If you are suffering from SAD regular exercise has been known to help, if you are of an age and are fit you could try jogging or a brick daily walk. If that is not your thing try yoga. You can also help your S.A.D symptoms with the power of exercise it will help keep your body healthy at the same time. It is a good idea to plan your week in advance as we are all guilty of putting things off, however if they have been scheduled you are more likely to see it through.

Food cravings can also be a component of Seasonal Affective Disorder, usually people crave sweet things like chocolate, biscuits and cake, if this is the case try to satisfy your appetite by substituting the sweeter foods with other carbohydrates such as pasta, or you could eat more fruit and vegetables.

In the end it all comes down to being proactive with your Disorder and tying to meet it head on, There is no one cure fits all but once you recognize that you have SAD then you can begin to treat it.
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Arnold Hexden writes on Seasonal Affective Disorder as well as other subjects, however S.A.D is an issue close to his heart and he has spent a lot of his time developing his jdeas. You can read more about S.A.D at his his website over at http://www.lightthearapyboxes.net

3 Reasons Why Women Sabotage Their Relationships ~ Check it out!

When we are talking with our girlfriends about guys, no one comes right out and say that I am going to sabotage my relationship. Most of us want to grow our relationship, so that it leads to true love and lasting happiness.

Would you be surprised if I said there are countless women who without intent are sabotaging/blocking their own potential of having a long lasting relationship? Many women are putting out the spark before the fire is ignited.

Stop and think about the next three scenarios related to sabotaging relationships then ask yourself honestly: "Have I done that" or "Do I do that?" If you are still not sure, ask one of your girlfriends, hint here, not your girlfriend who will just agree with everything you say, but the one that tells it like it is.

After looking at yourself or talking to your girlfriend, and the answer is a maybe to any one of these scenarios, then it is time to rethink your approach, adjust your attitude, think outside the box, and take a leap of faith to potentially connect with Mr. Right.

#1. You’ve refused to go out with a guy because he didn’t fit your perfect picture or your checklist.

A guy asked you out, and you refused to go out with him because he did not have the items on your checklist or he did not fit your perfect image in your head of Mr. Right. You know the list I am talking about i.e. he has to be handsome, a certain height, drive a certain car, have money etc. At some point, most girls create a fantasy of their perfect man or about their Prince Charming riding on a horse and sweeping them off their feet.

Whether this is because we seen to many Cinderella Stories, or to many reality shows, but this image/fantasy is stuck in our head, so when a typical guy cross our path, the checklist is pulled out sometimes literally and figuratively to compare and contrast the man in front of us. However, a surprising number of those images/fantasies are unrealistic, and are based on superficiality or just outdated values.

Ladies, step away from the checklist, the man in our fantasies may not exist, but the man that is in front of us maybe able to connect with us, so that the fairy tale ending of walking into the sunset can occur.

#2. You’ve judged a guy based solely on looks, and ignored all the other great qualities
Ok, hit the "Y" key if you have done this. I have been guilty of this one, of judging a guy solely on looks, and ignoring the fact that he had other qualities and characteristics that I like to see in the man.

We see a guy from a distant at a party, and he looks ok, then when he approaches you see that he has pimples, or his teeth are not straight or he is dressed weird, but he is funny, sweet, and kind. We all know that great looks don't last, that is why the health and beauty industries reports over 6 billion dollars a year in profits.

Remember a man with a loving spirit, and kind heart goes a long way, then the one that has a Brad Pitt's face only. So be careful when looks are your only criteria.

#3. You have a pattern of getting into arguments with your significant other -- for no real reason.
Sometimes my girlfriends call me to tell me about their fight they just had with their significant other. When I ask what it was about, it is often for no real reason. One was about the darn toilet seat being left up and another about using guest's towels. This list goes on and on.

So for this one ladies, let's be honest and objective as you can, is the argument really about the toilet seat, or the guest's towel. Probably not, but a symptom of a bigger issue, but it is easier to fight/ague about the toilet seat then to address the real issue.

Often, we are placing transference on the current relationship based on past relationships or we are hurt about something that our partner did or did not do, but whatever the issue is it is rarely about the toilet seat.

As you go about your day, keep in mind that it takes two to tangle, and a good beginning helps to create long lasting sustainable relationship, so the fairytale has a happy ending.

What are your thoughts?

Stress Relief - Fast And Naturally

For professionals and workaholics, stress has already become synonymous to lifestyle. To them, relaxation and rest are nothing but an idea rested in the mind's neurons, a good thing only waiting to be fulfilled. However, when the physical and mental abuse catches up on them, from then only they start to realize how important it is to deal with stress properly or end up getting sick.

Stress, in the most perfect sense of the word, provides a negative connotation. It is something unhealthy not only to the body but also the mind. Besides the body and the mind cannot work without each other that if both are not at its best of health then you can expect chaos to break lose. Meanwhile, stress is also a trap that tempts people to believe they have done something good and productive. However, the truth is, stress should be avoided whenever possible. Or at least, with the help of stress reduction and management programs, individuals who suffer from it will learn to cure stress naturally. Popping those pills should be the last thing on your mind considering the short-term and long-term side effects that you will experience.

How It Works

Stress reduction programs are highly effective ways to cure stress naturally. They are safe and scientifically proven methods to deal with stress and its short and long-term effects. You have to go for this natural means because you don't want to add up to your stress by feeling the side effects of coping with stress the other way around.

These programs that help cure stress naturally are usually made widely available through CDs, textbooks or even online. Programs are also conducted in the institutes. Proving how effective they are, these programs have also become rewarding businesses most particularly in the west. In these programs, the evaluation and the intervention are made specific to the individual in order to suit his personal needs and problems. So it does not necessary to tell everyone that this and that should be done. Instead, each program is well planned and customized to the specific needs and psychological system of the individual. This is what makes these programs effective in their aim to cure stress naturally.

What It Contains

To quickly cure stress naturally, stress reduction programs come in sessions or modules. Each of the sessions is highly guaranteed in reducing stress and anxiety - whether in the school, work, family or career. Sessions also provide additional scientific reasoning in order to understand the cause of stress. The module can start with identifying the source of the stress or the stressful events that triggers the reactions from the individual. The next that will be determined is the current coping mechanism used to reduce stress. An assessment will be made to determine whether they are effective or not.

Sessions may also come in audios to adapt to every busy individual's lifestyle. It is then made easy to cure stress naturally by listening to the modules and audio courses.

Also possible are e-books that helps to guide on how to cure stress naturally and eventually achieve a stress-free life. They show the ways in which stress hinders the individual from achieving success in his tasks and how stress affects his total well being.

Every recipient of this program will surely feel the clamour within himself to cure stress naturally.

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T S Gill is a researcher in the field of self-help and is always looking for ways to solve health problems fast and naturally without the side effects of drugs. If you wish to know the ultimate secret to cure stress fast and naturally please visit: http://www.curestressfastnaturally.com/

Source: http://www.submityourarticle.com/

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The Top 3 Male Turnoffs

Ladies, I want to discuss a subject that I was discussing with my friends during ladies' night out. We were talking about how to attract a good man, and then I asked them, "What do you think turn men off by our behaviors?"  We know it is important to know how to get his engine roaring, but it is also a good idea to know what can destroy the engine. We need to know what turns men on and off. By knowing what types of behaviors will destroy, the engine will help us to stay in the driver's seat to keep the spark, and engine going in the right direction for a long relaxed ride.  After a heated discussion, with the girls, we came up with what we believe are men's top three turnoffs by women's behaviors:

• Turnoff # 1: Trying to change him
• Turnoff # 2: Flakiness
• Turnoff # 3: Ultimatums

Read below for more detail:

Turnoff # 1: Trying to change him

I don't know one woman who has not tried to change at least one man in her life time either intentionally or unintentionally.  You heard these saying before: I had to train him, or I had to retrain him.  Now ladies, if it was up to us, some of us would change the person  from top to bottom, how he dresses, his hair cut, how he eats, how he drives, how he walks, etc etc.

Which makes one wonder, what did you like about the person from the start if there is so much you want to change?    Ladies, if this is you...just stop it...there is a famous saying that "Women marry men hoping they'll change. Men marry women hoping they won't." 

Let's spend more time on accepting them "as is" even when he chews with his mouth open.  Moreover, if you can't accept him "as is" then don't date him. As after all of your hard work of nagging/ yelling about him changing, he may be well-groomed and trained for someone else who will accept him for who he is.

Turnoff # 2: Flakiness

Ladies, raise your hand if you fall into this category of not committing to plans or at the last minute, canceling plans or sabotaging the plans because you are not really into the guy, or your hair is not right, or you are bloated as well as being flaky just to be a flake. If you are constantly saying, "maybe" or I will pencil you in, then you may have given your guy the impression that he is an option vs. a priority.  Just think about that for a moment, would you stick around with a guy who canceled plans continuously. Let me answer for you ---"No" 

So let's be a woman about it, and in Wendy Williams' voice, "Say it like you mean" because if you are not going to keep the date, then don't even agree to it in the first place.  When he stop asking you out altogether, look in the mirror and ask yourself whether you were being flaky and/or if you were making him an option vs. a priority.

Turnoff # 3: Ultimatums

Again, raise your hand if you have done this one, where you said these famous words, "You better" or "If you don't, then I will."  Not only are these types of ultimatums often empty promises, but they are often ineffective.  Because if you don't follow through, you come across as going back to my number two  of being flaky as well as my number one  as trying to change him.   Keep in mind that a healthy, vibrant, and long term relationship, don't need ultimatums as when you are communicating honestly, openly, and directly than ultimatums are unnecessary.

The point of dating is about meeting a variety of different people, so by knowing what are your turn offs and what are the men's turn offs, it will perhaps lead to less frustration and more health positive dating/relationships experiences.

What other women's behaviors turn men offs?

2 Tips to Take Your Relationship from "So-So" to Spectacular

Have you ever wondered why some couples describe their relationship as awesome and others describe their relationship as simply "it's alright?"

After surveying my friends and family, the differences are minimal. The first thing that I discovered that most couples did not contribute their great relationships to hours of hard work. I was surprised by this response since that is what you usually hear when you talk to couples who have a great relationship. I found that it is small changes in attitude, connection, and behavior that can change a relationship from "so so" to awesome. Which lead me to my top two reasons that can assist you in taking your relationship from "so-so" to wow, awesome, spectacular and in the words of J.J from Good Times, Dynamite!

1. Unmet Needs/Unclear Expectations

I was surprised to learn that the main reason for break up is not communication issues, or conflicts nor physical incompatibility, but not fully understanding/addressing the other's needs. Most of the couples who have great relationships, expressed that their partner understood their needs, and that there were clear expectations of each other.

Whereas the couples in the "so-so" relationships often stated that their partner did not know them, or their needs were not being addressed. Example of this is one couple stated that she wanted more cuddling and affection time, and her partner felt that he was meeting her needs by not jumping out of bed right away after love making, and by snuggling during movie time. When I inquired if the couple shared their expectations? The response that I received was "No, but he should know what I like."

So one thing that will help your "so-so" relationship to be more spectacular is to share your expectations at least once a year, which will assist with more open, honest and direct communication.

2. Show and Tell Their Partner Some Love

The next big Ah moment was the women that are in a great relationship shared that they often showed, shared and expressed to their partner some form of love/connection continuously. The women shared that they let their partner know that he is appreciated, respected, honored, "the one" and loved. Surprisingly, these men who received genuine affirmations/love, shared that they often wanted to do more, help more, and spend more time with their partner because they knew that they were appreciated and loved for them with no strings attached.

So ladies, the next time your husband/partner does something nice i.e. cooking dinner, bringing your favorite treat home without you asking him to do so etc. make sure you let him know that you appreciate his efforts, and in time your relationship will go from "so-so" to great.

What tips do you have to keep your relationship from staying exciting, flourishing and wonderful?

PART 2--Should You Really "Stay Friends" After The Relationship is Over?

Previously we discussed the reasons for not staying friends, but here are three reasons to stay friends from the article Should You Really "Stay Friends" After The Relationship is Over? by eharmony staff.

1. Insist on a Substantial Cooling Off Period
There is almost no way that a human being can go from being romantically attracted to someone to being just friends in a short period of time. Emotions aren't switches that get flipped on and off. The old saying is that it takes half the length of the relationship to get over the relationship. So, a six-month romance requires a three-month healing period. It's impossible to be that precise with feelings but as a general rule - wait six months before trying to form a friendship. That means six months without phone calls, emails, and "how you doing?" texts. It's six months where you are completely out of each other's lives so that new relationships and new feelings can grow. If after that period of time, you still want to create a friendship with your old flame, you can start doing the groundwork.

2. Choose Your Venues Wisely
Attraction is a funny thing. Sometimes it just never dies. You may attend a 30-year high school reunion, see an old boyfriend, and have the same giddy feeling you did as a 16-year old. This nature of attraction must always be kept in mind and respected. Let's say you wait six months and meet your old flame to get reacquainted. Consider these possible venues:

1. Group of Friends Attending a Football Game, 12pm - Low Risk
2. Just the two of you at Starbucks. 1pm - Low Risk
3. Dinner with friends, 6pm - Medium Risk
4. After work cocktails, 6pm - High Risk
5. Late night drink, 10pm - Backslide Dead Ahead!

In fact, unless you're meeting each other with new romantic partners in tow, alcohol is a tremendous risk factor. You both need the judgment and restraint that comes with sobriety.

3. Build a Different Dynamic

Opposite sex friends need clear boundaries -- especially if they are involved in romantic relationships with other people. There are things about your interaction that need to change if you're going to be friends. For example, lovers often talk about very intimate feelings. Opposite sex friends who don't want to end up as lovers avoid these topics. There has to be a re-thinking of the ways that you interact.

This extends to your body language as well. Women often have a remarkable ability to tell if two people have had a romantic past. They observe the body language of these two people as they greet each other and talk; and they can predict with high accuracy whether they had a relationship together. They are very keenly observing the familiarity that two people with a sexual past have for each other - a kind of diminished personal space that regular good friends don't have. If you want to be friends with an ex, this is another area where you'll need to consciously work to reconsider your habits.

Staying Friends - is it a good idea? There is no definitive answer to this question. Just remember that building a friendship after a relationship is work. It isn't some easy lower gear you just shift in to. Before you say, "let stay friends" consider if it's what you really want, and whether it is worth the possible risks

What are your thoughts?

Top 10 Principles to Achieve Peace, Happiness and Success

Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

"Do not seek what you will eat and what you will drink, and do not keep worrying. For all these things the nations of the world eagerly seek; but your Father knows that you need these things. But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you."

Luke 12:29-31

"So then, brethren, stand firm and hold to the traditions which you were taught, whether by word of mouth or by letter from us."

2 Thessalonians 2:15

"The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled; and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted."

Matthew 23:11-12

"You shall not covet your neighbor's house; you shall not covet your neighbor's wife or his male servant or his female servant or his ox or his donkey or anything that belongs to your neighbor."

Exodus 20:17

"Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might."

Ecclesiastes 9:10

"We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work."

John 9:4

"Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win." 1 Corinthians 9:24

"Earnestly desire the greater gifts. And I show you a still more excellent way."

1 Corinthians 12:31

"How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God?"

John 5:44

Part 1--Should You Really "Stay Friends" After The Relationship is Over?

I read this great article, "Should You Really "Stay Friends" After The Relationship is Over?" by eHarmony Staff.

The article was very interesting because my friend recently broke up with her boyfriend, and he continues to call and ask her out in hopes of getting back together or for a "booty call". My friend continues to avoid his calls or sends him a text/email vs. actually communicating her true feelings. I asked her why she just did not tell him frankly that she was not interested, and she explained that she did not want to hurt his feelings.

Hmmmm, interesting or is it just to feel desirable until the next person comes along.

Ladies, why do we say, "let's stay friends" when we generally do not want to continue any type of friendship/relationship.

The article explains the, "3 Good Reasons Why You Shouldn't Stay Friends"

1. It is hard to turn off romantic feelings
You see it in the paper every day. Someone throws away a prominent career because they have fallen in love (or lust) with someone they shouldn't. This person knows that it is a bad idea, but controlling our emotions in this way takes a discipline that most folks can't muster.

If you've ever been dumped, and agreed to "just be friends" you know deep down inside you still want to get back together. Even if you don't want to…you want to. Each time you get together as friends you're hoping and praying that you'll end up in each other's arms. You may even subtly be pushing things in that direction.

If you did the dumping, the knowledge that this person -- this new friend --would love to kiss you will always be in the back of your mind waiting for the right moment to lead you exactly where you don't want to go.

2. It's easy to get mixed messages
Friends do things for each other. They call when you're sick. They take you out when you've had a bad day. They give you a gift on your birthday. It is very easy to get mixed signals in the midst of all this kindness, love, and support. It's easy to wonder if feelings have changed. If there is some spark underneath all that effort. "Would she really come over and cook me dinner if she didn't love me and want to be with me?" you might ask.

Keeping it all straight can be a full-time job, and a single misinterpretation could lead to the backslide.
3. Hope springs eternal and you need to move on

In a situation where both people part ways and don't see each other again this can be a problem. Your memories may haunt you, and make it difficult to find someone new. But imagine the likelihood of this happening if you're still seeing the person regularly. You can't meet someone new because your old love is still in your life -- hanging around being your pal and reminding you how great they are.

One of the worst things that can happen to your dating life is getting hung up on someone who doesn't love you. You pine, and they move on. Each new person that comes your way and expresses interest is swiftly blown off, because you are desperately hoping you can rekindle the flame with your ex.


What are your thoughts?

The full article is here:

http://advice.eharmony.com/dating/important-questions/should-you-really-stay-friends-after-the-relationship-is-over

4 Great Places to Meet People (Other Than Bars)

Well I am not a bar hopper, so me meeting a cool person at a bar is very slim.  I thought about where men hangout and thought of these non-alcoholic spots that are conducive for meeting people for the following reasons:

• The surroundings provide subject matter and spark conversation
• They are quieter than bars so you can hear each other
• They bring people with common interests together

My top 4 places are:

Concerts/Shows/Plays

People gather before the show starts, and intermissions provide a little window to chat with people about the production. Then, at the end of the production, there's always time too.

Sporting Events/Casinos

If you like sports, then try a sporting bar, as there is plenty to talk about as people react to their team's performance, or wear sports apparel reflecting their team allegiance. Ladies, pls do not go to the sporting bar if you have no concept at all about sports. As the point is to go and have fun/relax and meeting new people.  

Book Stores/Cafes

Lots of people talk about books they are reading, even when someone approaches them and asks them about the book. Book stores surround us with conversation-starting items. You can even "select" someone based on what section they are browsing.

Classes

My friend Karen is taking bowling classes and tells me about all of the great people she's met in class. It can be any type of class  (cooking, yoga, dance, music, computers) is a great place to meet people. Any class you join will include people with similar interests. It's a low-pressure environment that encourages teamwork. And, even if you don't meet that special someone, you're still improving yourself.

Where do you like to meet people?

Dating Tips: 9 Simple Things Women Want

I read this great article, "Dating Tips: 9 Simple Things Women Want By YourTango.com.

The article shared "many a man has questioned, "What exactly do women want?" We're not playing coy here, we know we're complex creatures. And, true, we operate on a different wavelength than men. But women aren't exactly the great mystery that men often make us out to be. While many women really do want luxury goods from men, when you break it down they are just physical representations of some of the points on this list."

When I read the 9 Simple Things, 4 stood out to me which are:

1. Respect. Show us through your actions that you respect our opinions, careers, interests, friends, bodies, and minds. You don't have to agree with all that we say or do, but try to honor our opinions as valuable contributions. Follow the golden rule and treat us as you would like to be treated: Be honest, fair, kind, and considerate.

2. Romance. It's another night on the couch with takeout and TiVo? Just because we're staying in doesn't mean the evening can't be romantic. Light a few candles and see where the night leads. Treat us like your girlfriend, even after we become your wife. Date nights, physical affection in the car, kissing like when we first started dating -- all of the things that made us fall in love with you don't have to stop just because now there are bills to pay, a house to be cleaned, and kids to be bathed. Bring home flowers for no reason. We're not talking $100 bouquets of roses here. Even the $10 bouquets from the supermarket are enough to make us smile.

3. Time. We understand relationships can't be all wine and roses; simply making the time to be with us and treating us like your top priority says "love" more than all the fancy gifts and lovely letters ever could. This includes helping around the house. The realities of a 21st-century relationship are that both partners probably work. If you happen to get home before we do, why not vacuum the living room or throw in a load of laundry? If you take the garbage out without being asked, chances are you'll be getting a big ole smooch when you come back.

4. Communication. Women are vocal creatures. We know you love us, but it's nice to hear you say it, too. We can also be insecure. We wish we weren't, but the reality is that we often notice our wobbly thighs and forget about our gorgeous eyes. So let us know when you think we're hot. Tell us we're beautiful. It helps us feel good. Words of appreciation aren't half-bad either. Tell us you love the lasagna we made. Notice that we cleaned the bathtub. It doesn't have to be over the top, just let us know that you see the effort we put in, and you're grateful.

What would you add to the list?

Click Here to read the entire article for the other 5 Things Women Want: YourTango.com.

Dating Advice: 4 Secrets to a Spectacular Relationship

Peek into the lives of happy couples and find out how these four love moves will bring you closer than ever.

By dating editor Nicole Yorio for Redbook

What do couples who describe their relationship as spectacular do differently than those who describe theirs as simply so-so? The differences are quite small, actually.

"When we look at happy couples, we see that great partnerships are not the result of hours of hard work," says relationship researcher Terri L. Orbuch, Ph.D., who followed 373 couples for over 22 years as part of a marriage study funded by the National Institutes of Health. "It's small changes in behavior and attitude that can transform your relationship." In her new book," Orbuch shares the steps you can take to a spectacular relationship.

#1. Understand Each Other's Needs

"The main reason marriages break up is not conflict, communication problems, or physical incompatibility," Orbuch says. "It's frustration -- the day-to-day disappointment of the gap between what you expect and how your partner acts -- that is most damaging." To diffuse that frustration, share your expectations with each other. Maybe you desire more affection and he craves more relaxed couple time. "And be sure to check in with your partner once a year, as added pressures or life changes can create new expectations," Orbuch says.

#2. Show Him Some Love

Men whose partners give them affirmation -- those words and gestures that show they are appreciated, respected, and loved -- are twice as likely to describe themselves as happy in their relationship. And men may need affirmation more than women, Orbuch's research showed. "Women are constantly receiving flattery from friends and even strangers who say, 'Love your outfit!'" she says. "But men don't get that recognition." Can you imagine a passerby stopping your guy to compliment him on how well his tie matches his shirt? Not gonna happen -- which is why men rely on that attention from their mates. Luckily, there's another payoff to your flattery: He's more likely to return those loving deeds back to you.

#3. Take 10

A weekly date night is always recommended as a way to reconnect, but sometimes all you need is a few minutes. "I call this the 10-Minute Rule: Take 10 minutes a day to talk about anything, except for responsibilities or chores," Orbuch says. Throw out Mom's old advice about how an air of mystery keeps the flame alive: Orbuch's research showed that 98 percent of happy couples say they intimately understand their partners.

And knowing your partner intimately isn't always about engaging in heavy conversations: Anything that helps you learn something new will bring you closer, Orbuch says. You can bond over why you think your dog is the smartest one on the block or which superpower you'd want most. You'll get to know each other's inner world and strengthen your bond of happiness.

#4. Focus on the Good

The best way to make your relationship better is to work at fixing what's wrong, right? Nope. "The most effective way to boost fun and passion is to add positive elements to your marriage," Orbuch says. "That positive energy makes us feel good and motivates us to keep going in that direction."

This doesn't mean that you can't feel -- or talk about -- anything negative, but "pretend you are weighing your interactions on a scale," she says. "If you want a happier relationship, the positive side needs to far outweigh the bad." The more you honor the love and joy in your bond, the sooner you'll transform your partnership into one that is truly great.

Reprinted with permission of Hearst Communications, Inc.

I Am a Kept Woman

I Am a Kept Woman



You see, there were a few times when I thought I would lose my mind, But GOD kept me sane. (Is a. 26:3)



There were times when I thought I could go on no longer,
But the LORD kept me moving.. (Gen 28:15)

At times, I’ve wanted to lash out at those whom I felt had done me wrong, but the LORD kept my mouth shut. (Psa. 13)

Sometimes, I think the money just isn’t enough,
But GOD has helped me to keep the lights on, the water on, the car paid, the house paid, etc... (Matt. 6:25 -34)

When I thought I would fall, HE kept me up.
When I thought I was weak, HE kept me strong!
(I Pet. 5:7, Matt. 11:28-30 )

I could go on and on and on, but I’m sure you hear me!
I’m blessed to be ‘kept.’

 

Are you...or do you know a "kept" woman?

Listen To Your Inner Voice

People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self centered:

Forgive them anyway






If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives:
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some false friends and some true enemies:
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you:
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight:
Build anyway.

If your find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous:
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have,
And it may never be enough:
Give the world the best you’ve got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis,
It is between you and God:

It was never between you and them anyway.

Mother Teresa