Different Types of Air Purifiers For A Healthy Home

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

The level of pollution in the air that we breathe both indoors and outdoors is getting alarming. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air pollutants are 2 to 5 times higher than the air outside due to poor air circulation. During this time of the pandemic, and lockdowns, most of our time is spent inside the comforts of our homes, which makes us susceptible to develop cardiovascular or respiratory-related diseases.  

Air purifiers are dependable in eliminating pollutants in the air that we breathe at home. If you are not using an air filter and purifier, you become the filter. Keep reading to find out more.

So what is an air purifier?

An air purifier is a device that promises to remove pollutants and improve indoor air quality. It restricts the spread of harmful impurities and sanitizes by filtering the particles and purifying them. It gets rid of allergens, second-hand tobacco smoke, outdoor smoke, pollutants, and toxins. 

It has fans and filters that draw air and catch particles to cleanse the air that is eventually pushed back to the room's air circulation. This process neutralizes the air that flows in the room, making it clean for people to take in.

Uses and Benefits

Air purifiers remove air impurities to give us healthy air to breathe, but their benefits do not stop there. Here are the advantages that you can get from using it regularly:

1. Guarantee clean indoor air

2. Eradicate unpleasant odor

3. Catches airborne allergens from pets

4. Neutralizes smoke

5. Captures dust in the room

6. Decreases the risk of spreading airborne diseases by eradicating 99% of airborne bacteria like pollen, molds, and other floating bacteria in the air

7. Fights seasonal allergens

8. Stops the spread of some viruses

9. Promotes lung-health

10. Convenient and fits anywhere as it comes in different sizes with various features.

11. Eliminates harmful chemicals from household materials containing toxic substances

12. Promotes sleep

13. Improves well-being for those with cardiovascular concerns

14. Decreases overall indoor air pollution

15. Lengthens life expectancy

 Air-purifier efficacy depends on where it is situated, its flow rate, and the frequency of use. While it can eliminate the source of allergies and asthma symptoms, it is not an alternative to medication. It is still best to consult your physician about the best approach to any of your health concerns.

 The target pollutants eliminated using an air purifier depend on the type you prefer. Find out which one fits your needs. Here are the different types of Air Purifiers available in the market:

Types of Air Purifier

• HEPA Filters

HEPA or High Efficiency Particulate Air is known for trapping 99.97% of all particles up to 0.3 microns invisible to the human eye. This type of air purifier is more expensive but is loved by many because of its effectiveness in eliminating the vast majority of pollutants.

• Activated Carbon

Activated carbon is efficient at eliminating odors, smoke, fumes, chemicals, and even gasses in your home. Activated carbon air purifiers usually come with HEPA filters to clean air pollutants.

• Electrostatic Air Cleaners

An electrostatic or electronic air cleaner uses static electricity to capture airborne particles while your furnace and air conditioning are on. With the help of HEPA filters and positively charged ions, it can remove up to 99.98% of air allergens in your home.

• Ultraviolet Light Air Purifiers

Ultraviolet Light (UV) is known for its ability to kill bacteria. UV air purifiers utilize ultraviolet light to destroy harmful viruses, bacteria, and pathogens from the air in your home bet they no not remove toxins.

• Central Air Cleaners

Central air cleaners purify air through your home's ductwork. It connects to your central heating and cooling systems and removes 99% of pollen, dust, and about 94% of viruses in your home. It cleans the air while extending the life of your heater and air conditioner too.

• Air Purifying Candles

If you are not ready to get an air purifying device, you can go the natural way with the air purifying candles. Made from soy or beeswax, it aerosolized the embedded botanicals as it burns and purifies the air. It is meant to purify the air in a small room or limited space only.

• Air-to-Air Exchangers

Air-to-air exchangers provide better ventilation in your home. It eliminates stale air and regulates the home's climate by reducing molds in the air, improving air circulation.

There are plenty of air purifiers in the market, but not all are efficient and could deliver what they promise. Getting a quality air purifier ensures you the benefits you should get. Dyson has different innovative air purifier models available to meet your needs.

Sources:

Allergy & Air - The 5 Most Common Types of Air Purifiers

EPA - Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)

GH - Do Air Purifiers Actually Work?

Healthline - Do Air Purifiers Actually Work?

HVAC - Air Purifier Benefits and How They Work

Mold Free Living - EC3 Candles—an Easy Way to Purify Your Indoor Air

Welter Heating - The Pros and Cons of the 7 Different Types of Air Purifiers

LED Devices for Health and Beauty

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

I'm sure you have heard about LED devices and the benefits for health and beauty rejuvenation it brings. Skincare enthusiasts and celebrities are raving about it, that it fills our social media feeds. But hey, if you have not heard about it yet, we are not judging you!

Let's face it, wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin tones are some of the signs of aging most of us, if not all, wanted to avoid. Some factors that could cause these include daily exposure to the sun, stress, pollution, medical, and even genes. There are so many skincare products out in the market to help you slow down aging and the signs that go with it. One of the easiest and quickest ways to rejuvenate the skin is through LED therapy.

What LED therapy is

LED stands for Light Emitting Diode. LED light therapy is a treatment that has been around for more than half a century. It was developed for astronauts for plant growth experiments and later on to help tissue healing and cell regeneration while in space.

This non-invasive skin care treatment involves exposing your skin to various therapeutic light wavelengths to address skin conditions and promote healing. It is because different light frequencies trigger varying responses in the skin. Apart from enhancing skin health, it also treats some mental health conditions like SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder.

LED therapy benefits

Using LED light therapy was proven to get favorable results. Here are the benefits you can gain from using a LED light treatment:

• Supports sleep optimization

• Manage sebum production to combat inflammation

• Treats acne

• Improves natural oil production

• Enhances blood circulation

• Speeds up tissue repair

• Relieves joint pain

• Stimulates collagen and elastin synthesis to fight against aging effects

• Reduces hyperpigmentation or sun damage

The best part is, this painless beauty technology does not use UV light and is safe for all skin colors, types, and conditions.

Various Colors for Your Skin Needs

LED therapy uses a different wave of lights both in the visible and invisible spectrum. Each wavelength penetrates the skin at different levels. As it increases, so does the extent of penetration in the skin. The frequency or LED light color utilized in the treatment depends on specific skin needs. Here are the beautiful colors used in LED light treatment:

Red Light

It is for treating conditions on the outer layers of the skin. It fades age spots, hyperpigmentation, and damaged skin. Boosts the skin's natural collagen to tighten pores, smoothen fine lines and wrinkles. It reduces inflammation, accelerates wound healing, and improves circulation. It is a medically approved rosacea treatment.

Blue Light

Blue light has powerful antibacterial properties. It reduces inflammation, diminishes bacteria, heals acne, decreases acne scars, and has been used to treat injured tissue, preventing scar tissue, and speed up the healing of burns and lung conditions.

White Light

White light has the longest wavelength, therefore, has the highest depth of penetration in the skin. It is full-spectrum light that used to reverse the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), emotional eating disorder, addictions, and more.

It is also used in skin toning and tightening while reducing inflammation, leaving your skin a healthy glow.

Yellow Light

Improves lymphatic drainage and relieves redness, coarse, dull, and dry skin conditions by renewing the skin's cell energy. It also promotes skin immunity and is efficient for the prevention and treatment of cold sores. It is a perfect therapy for aiding eczema, sunburn, psoriasis, and rosacea.

Green Light

It is best for a pick-me-up treatment when you feel mentally stressed that your skin feels greasy and in need of rebalancing. It reduces the production of melanin, giving you smooth and even glowing skin.

Different Types of LED treatment devices

You can get LED light therapy in salons, spas, or your dermatologist's office. Another convenient way to get that glowing skin is by using portable devices in the comforts of your home. Take a look at the different types of LED treatment devices that are available in the market.

In-office LED light treatment devices:

It's no surprise that getting an in-office LED therapy treatment is expensive. Office procedures take approximately 20 minutes at a time, and up to 10 sessions, depending on the treatment plan prescribed. The suggested professional LED treatment regimen is 4-6 treatments every other week or two, followed by a maintenance treatment every two months. Like any other regimen, consistency is the key to get great results.

• Full Body LED Light Therapy (Light therapy bed)

Enjoy a head-to-toe LED light treatment with this professional device. It emits blue, red, and near-infrared wavelengths and treats both pain and skin conditions.

• LED Panel Treatment

The LED panel facial treatment machine can either be stand-mounted and portable. Ideally used for over-the-face sessions, this device targets both acne and aging skin conditions.

Designed to position over any part of the body, the portable version is intended to treat a broader range of body acne, skin aging effects, and even pain management with efficacy.

• LED Light Facial Photon Therapy Machine

Unlike the droid-looking LED masks, this Photon Therapy Machine is for clinic use only. It has a large, sophisticated built, specifically for facial use with expert supervision. It helps in reducing fine lines, treats acne, improves circulation and skin lightening.

At-home LED light treatment devices:

Good thing at-home devices exist! These do-it-yourself beauty tools are affordable and convenient for maintenance. They come in lamps, wands, masks, and now panels that you can use with ease. Just remember to read and follow the user manual and manufacturer's guide thoroughly.

• LED light therapy lamp

There are different kinds of at-home LED light therapy lamps. Some look like traditional lamps, while others have a more modern look to them. Some are solely for facial use - fight anti-aging effects, acne treatment, and skin rejuvenation, while others are for pain relief.

• LED light stick and wands 

If you are looking for an at-home LED light tool best for spot treatment, go for Light therapy sticks or wands. These small devices are convenient in targeting specific skin conditions efficiently.

• LED light treatment masks

LED masks are the most common light therapy in the market. When picking a LED facial mask, choose multifunctionality. Look for the one that offers several modes like different colored-lights to treat various conditions. Powerful, portable, and convenient.

• LED light panel therapy

Get a more extensive treatment at home with the LED light panel therapy. LED panels vary in different sizes. For people on the go, there is a handheld LED panel for you. For in-home use, a LED panel device with a medium built, perfect for a spot or localized treatment at home. And lastly, the large modular panels for full-body light therapy treatment.

LED light therapy shows promising outcomes. Both in-office and at-home treatments' benefits are excellent in promoting wellness, health, and skin rejuvenation. Whether you like to sleep sound at night, get rid of joint and body pain, or get ten years younger, it is always best to consult your physician before trying LED therapy for the first time.

Sources:

EstheticsHub - 10 Best LED Light Therapy Machines

Harvard Health - LED lights: Are they a cure for your skin woes?

Healthline - LED Light Therapy: Efficacy, Procedure, and What to Expect

Medical News Today - LED light therapy: What is it, and does it work?

OGLF: 9 Best At-Home Red Light LED Therapy Device Review

PlatinumLED Therapy Lights - LED Light Therapy for Your Skin: Benefits, Dangers, and FAQ

The History of Tapping (EFT)

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

What is tapping?

This is also known as EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), an alternative treatment technique that has been proven to resolve issues like stress, anxiety, phobias, emotional disorders, chronic pain, weight control, limiting beliefs, etc.

Also called psychological acupressure, which is based on the mix of acupressure and modern psychology. This consists of tapping with your fingertips on specific meridian points and by doing this, it balances the nervous system and restores the body's balance and energy.

History of Tapping

The origins of tapping was from ancient Chinese medicine with the development of acupuncture, a well-known healing technique that uses needles on the energy pathways. EFT was founded by Dr Roger Callahan in 1979. Dr. Callahan learned Applied Kinesiology and studied the meridian system of acupuncture in search of solutions to some of the problems his patients encountered, particularly those with anxiety and phobias. He took the next step to bring the tapping procedures into a different form of psychological treatment. Callahan had discovered that if a person focuses on a specific fear at the time they tap; this fear can be reduced or eliminated.

After Dr. Callahan studied the meridian system, it was an unexpected development which led to the discovery that foreshadowed the later development of EFT.

Uses of tapping:

• Reduce stress

• Relieves anxiety

• Reduce headache frequency and intensity

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Weight loss

Learn the Tapping Points

There are eight major tapping points and one on your hand known as the karate chop (9 in total) which can be seen below. Remember to tap lightly, but firmly. Applying force to tapping is not necessary. If for some reason you can’t tap a specific point due to pain or injury, you can skip that particular point.

Tapping Points

Karate Chop Point: (KC)

This is mainly used for EFT setup and it’s located on the soft part of the hand between the little finger and the wrist.

Eyebrow Point (EB)

At the beginning of the eyebrows and closest to the bridge of the nose.

Side of Eye (SE)

On the bone directly near the outside corner of the eye.

Under Eye (UE)

Located on the bone directly underneath the eye.

Under Nose (UN)

Above the upper lip, the small area between the bottom of your nose.

Chin Point (CP)

Below your bottom lip and above the chin.

Collarbone Point (CB)

Located at the starting from where your collar bones meet in the center, the place where the sternum or breastbone.

Under Arm (UA)

On your side, about four inches down from your armpit.

Top of Head (TH)

Directly on top of your head.

When and how often should I tap?

There’s no rule when and how, you may tap as frequently as you like or any time you want. You may also do it when you are at any level of emotional intensity.

Summary

Though tapping may help people feel better, it is also recommended to ask professional help for physical pain or emotional issues.

Sources

Beth Tuttle - EFT Tapping Points

Healthline - What Is EFT Tapping? 5-Step Technique for Anxiety Relief

Jack Canfield - Tapping Therapy: Eliminate Fear, Anxiety & Achieve Your Goals

Medical News Today - What is EFT tapping? Evidence and how-to guide

The Tapping Solution - What is Tapping and How Does it Work?

Verywell Health - Learn the Benefits and Uses of EFT Tapping

New Moons and Full Moons, Eclipses and Mercury Retrogrades 2021

February 11: Venus-Jupiter Conjunction

Venus and Jupiter will both appear as brilliant dots and will be very close in the sky and visible through a backyard telescope. The perfect time to see them will be about 20 to 30 minutes before sunrise.

March 9 and 10: Quadruple formation

The great opportunity to observe a cosmic huddle around the globe. Mercury, Jupiter, and Saturn will all appear to form an alignment, while the nearby crescent moon will frame the trio of planets. Mercury will be the faintest and Jupiter the brightest, and all easily visible to the naked eye.

On May 26: “Blood moon”, A Total Lunar Eclipse

The moon will undergo a total lunar eclipse and will turn reddish for 15 minutes. Those who live in western North America, western South America, Australia, and Southeast Asia will be able to witness this event.

June 10: “Ring of fire” solar eclipse

An annular, or "ring of fire," solar eclipse will occur in Canada, Greenland, and Russia. This awesome event occurs when the Earth, sun, and moon are aligned and the lunar disk is too small to cover the entire sun.

August 11 to 12: Perseid Meteor Shower

Perseids are one of the brighter meteor showers of the year and will fall on warm summer nights. It doesn’t require any special equipment to view a meteor shower. All you need is a clear sky and lots of patience.

November 19: Partial Lunar Eclipse

The Moon will be covered by the Earth's shadow in a deep partial eclipse that will last 3 hours and 28 minutes. This event is visible in east Asia, Australia, the Pacific, and the Americas.

December 13 to 14: Geminid Meteor Shower

You don’t want to miss this one of the most beautiful celestial events of the year, the Geminids is the strongest meteor shower happening this year as there will be as many as 150 meteors that will illuminate the night sky.

New Moons

Jan. 13, Wed

Feb. 12, Fri

Mar. 13, Sat

Apr. 12, Mon

May 12, Wed

June 10, Thu

July 10, Sat

Aug. 8, Sun

Sept. 7, Tue

Oct. 6, Wed

Nov. 5, Fri

Dec. 4, Sat

Full Moons

Jan. 29, Fri

Feb. 27, Sat

Mar. 29, Mon

Apr. 27, Tue

May 26, Wed

June 25, Fri

July 24, Sat

Aug. 22, Sun

Sept. 21, Tue

Oct. 20, Wed

Nov. 19, Fri

Dec. 19, Sun

Eclipse calendar for 2021

May 26: Sagittarius (Total Lunar Eclipse)

June 10: Gemini (Annular Solar Eclipse)

November 19: Taurus (Partial Lunar Eclipse)

December 4: Sagittarius (Total Solar Eclipse)

Retrograde calendar for 2021

January 30–February 20: Mercury in Aquarius

May 29–June 22: Mercury in Gemini

September 27–October 18: Mercury in Libra

December 19, 2021–January 29, 2022: Venus in Capricorn

June 20–July 28: Jupiter in Pisces

July 28–October 18: Jupiter in Aquarius

May 23–October 10: Saturn in Aquarius

January 1–14: Uranus in Taurus

August 19, 2021–January 18, 2022: Uranus in Taurus

June 25–December 1: Neptune in Pisces

April 27–October 6: Pluto in Capricorn

July 15–December 19: Chiron in Aries

Sources:

Calendar-12.com - 2021 Moon Phases

Mind-Body Green - Eclipse & Retrograde Calendar For 2021 From The AstroTwins

National Geographic - 10 spectacular stargazing events to watch in 2021

Smithsonian Magazine - Ten Celestial Events to Look Forward to in 2021

The Statesman - Top 10 stargazing events in 2021

6 Things To Consider While Selecting A Sober House For An Elderly Person

Substance abuse, drug addiction, and other problems like alcoholism are increasing in senior citizens every year. There can be many reasons why seniors turn to drug addiction. These reasons can be but are not limited to, feeling lonely and depressed, overcoming existential crises, or simply as a result of the medications they are on.

Treating drug addiction in elders is as important as treating it in the younger population and luckily, there are sober houses across the country which accommodate the elderly as much as they accommodate the young people. But of course, the selection criteria for choosing the right sober house for the elderly is different from the selection criteria for choosing a sober house for a young person.

Considering the needs of adults, here are some of the tips which can come in handy if you’re choosing a sober house for an adult:

1. Environment And The Types Of Treatments Offered

Unlike most of the younger population, senior citizens have trouble adjusting to a new place. They might not be comfortable with the environment of the sober facility or have trouble adjusting or “fitting in”.

This puts special emphasis on choosing the right type of sober house which makes the seniors feel at home and recover in a healthy and encouraging environment. Look at the types of therapies which are being offered because if the therapy offered isn’t the right fit for the elderly they might be less willing to complete the program.

Whether it’s inpatient where the senior stays at the facility or outpatient where they come for therapies during specific hours. It completely depends upon the needs and the comfort of your senior loved ones.

2. Ask The Right Questions From The Staff

Although people are very hesitant when it comes to asking the staff questions, by all means, you should go ahead. This not only puts you at ease but keeps your loved ones comfortable as well.

To be specific, ask about the number of residents they have, if the nursing staff is specialized in elderly care and what are the activities for older residents etc. The staff should be able to give you information about treatment plans. Apart from the staff, a great idea would be to the current and past residence about their experience. We also recommend you ask about their recent satisfaction survey results as well.

3. The Nearer The Better

It is generally highly beneficial to travel as far as possible from home to get treatment. But in the case of an elderly person, it is generally discouraged. The reason is that they are already very lonely and feel the need to be around people for comfort. It is recommended to look for a rehab close to home where the patient’s family can come and visit often. The frequent visits from children and grandchildren keep the recovering person motivated to go through with the program.

4. Continuum Of Care

Substance addiction and the whole recovery process can take a toll on the mental health of a person and they would need a certain level of care to continue on their journey. After the initial detox as their addiction subsides they might want to shift back home or continue treatment in the facility. Ideally, the discharge plan starts the day they are welcomed in the sober house. The entire team creates a plan for continued care whether it’s in-home or outpatient and the type of therapy and treatment that will be required further. Although patient needs and response to the recovering are still unpredictable, having a plan makes the transition from home to rehab or vice versa easier.

5. Consider The Cost

One of the factors that hold a lot of weight and can be responsible for make or break decisions when it comes to sober houses or rehab centers. Generally, rehab centers can be expensive depending upon the amenities you are adding e.g. private rooms, luxury golf, and other activities.

Sober houses usually offer a fully functional basic plan that only includes the necessities, if you are still looking for options we would suggest looking into private loan or Medicaid and Medicare, etc. Nowadays the government is offering multiple programs to fight substance abuse and encourage recovery.

6. Consider The Patient To Staff Ratio

The number of adults who are falling prey to substance abuse and drug addiction is ever increasing so it is important to consider the patient to staff ratio while choosing a sober house. The aim is to have a low patient to staff ratio which translates to the recovering person spending more time with the therapist and the caregivers. This ensures quality and personalized care. While you should ask about the patient to staff ratio but also pay attention to the interactions between caregivers, therapy staff, and patients.

Now that you have narrowed down your options according to the checklist you have created and the information provided by the sober houses. It’s time to actually visit some centers. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, as knowing what to expect paves the way for a more successful recovery.

7 Tips for Side Sleepers for a Good Night's Sleep

There is no one popular sleeping position but the majority of the people are side sleepers. In previous years, sleeping on the back was said to be the most beneficial but latest research has proven that sleeping on your side has the most benefits.

Some may find comfort in sleeping on their back or their stomach but mostly, people prefer sleeping on their side. There are benefits and disadvantages of all sleeping positions and side sleeping is no different.

For instance, sleeping on your side helps you avoid heartburn symptoms but it may cause strain on your shoulder leading to terrible aches in the morning. Fortunately, there are some precautions that you can take to avoid the cons of sleeping on your side.

If you are a side sleeper, you must do it correctly so it doesn’t cause you any pain in your neck or spine. We have listed a few tips for all the side sleepers so they may have a peaceful sleep at night.

1. Get the Right Side Sleeping Pillow

The first and foremost thing one needs to do in order to sleep peacefully is to get the right pillow. Your pillow plays an important role in determining the quality of your sleep. If you’re not sleeping with the right pillow, you might get terrible pains in your spine, neck, or joints.

Pillow Insider recommends side sleepers use a thick and firm pillow in order to avoid these body aches. Most side sleepers who sleep with a thin pillow often wake up with pains due to an irregular sleeping position. While sleeping on the side, one should be careful about aligning their head perfectly with their back.

When you sleep on your side, there forms a triangular shape between your neck and your pillow that needs to be filled in order to avoid neck pains and only a thick pillow can do that in order for you to get a peaceful sleep in a perfectly aligned position.

2. Fix a pillow between your knees

When you sleep on your side, your upper leg can change the alignment of your spine and can possibly cause pain in your lower back and hip. These pains won’t take place over the night but if you continuously sleep on your side then you might start to experience such pains.

But not to worry, you can easily avoid such sort of pain by placing a pillow between your knees while sleeping. With a pillow between the knees, your spine will be aligned perfectly and will reduce the pressure on your body. If you’re a regular side sleeper, then this is the perfect hack for you!

3. Sleep on a good mattress

A bad mattress is your body’s worst enemy. One should never compromise on a poor quality mattress. If your mattress is not even and has bumps here and there, it’s high time you replace it with a new one before you start complaining about back and neck aches.

Side sleepers need adequate support in order to sleep peacefully and if their mattress isn’t providing it to them, they’ll be uncomfortable all night. A firm mattress should fully support the curves of your body so that there is no pressure on your back.

A good quality mattress is worth the money because if you don’t invest in it now, you'll be spending on your body aches later on. As they say, better late than never.

4. Don’t stretch your legs

While sleeping on the side, people tend to stretch out their legs which puts pressure on their spine and can lead to some serious pain over the course of time. If you’re a strict side sleeper, don't stretch your legs but pull them closer to your chest instead.

As comfortable as this position is, it puts less strain on your spine, and hence no body aches. If you’re used to sleeping with your legs stretched out, it might seem uncomfortable at first but it’s a good habit to get into.

5. Rotate your body completely while turning in your sleep

If you’re a side sleeper, you would know that one doesn’t sleep on their side for the whole night. You twist and turn a number of times and you even sleep on your back for a while. During this occasional twisting and turning. you might find yourself sleeping in an awkward position which can put pressure on your spine.

When you don’t fully rotate your body, it puts an unnecessary amount of pressure on your spine leading to nasty back aches. Avoid such a problem by rotating your body all at once while turning in your sleep and remember to do it slowly.

6. Change positions

As every sleeping position has its own pros and cons, one can never fully avoid the disadvantages of one position. It’s always a better idea to switch positions occasionally in order to avoid body aches. This way you can also avoid the pains associated with a particular sleeping position.

7. Make some changes in your lifestyle

This tip is not strictly just for side sleepers and can act as an effective one for all types of sleepers. One can only sleep peacefully at night if they avoid drinking alcohol or caffeine before bedtime, minimize screen time, and eat a balanced diet. Having a slight exercise before bed also helps in sleeping peacefully.

These tips are proven and tested and will hopefully help you sleep peacefully and comfortably at night meanwhile avoiding body aches associated with sleeping on the side.

How Substance Abuse Affects Your Psychological and Mental Health

When it comes to addiction, it is more than often intertwined with various mental health issues. Having this said, the psychological distress which is linked to substance and drug abuse may vary from serious to mild. Depending on the severity a person is suffering from, the distress mostly has a negative effect on the life of a substance abuser.

Is the mental health issue triggered due to substance abuse? Once established, the patient needs medical help and needs to be enrolled in substance abuse treatment programs which can deal with these issues. This is important because if the symptoms remain untreated, the user may not be able to sober up or clean their lifestyle. Eventually, they might not have a stable mental health.

So how does substance abuse affect your mental health:

Depression

Science has proven a clear link between depression and substance abuse, alongside any sort of mood disorder. While many people use drugs and substances to liberate themselves, the long-term effect may be suffering from depression. At the same time, one may have started abusing substances because of their preexisting depression, or they might have not had depression at a higher intensity but the substances triggered the symptoms.

While many people opt for drugs as a source of self-medication to deal with depression, it needs to be understood that symptoms are alleviated when a particular individual is in a high state of mind. Once in the withdrawal phase or when the effect wears off, depression symptoms are likely to increase. A lot of drugs come with withdrawal syndrome, which induces mood disturbances such as depression, leading to complicated recovery periods.

Anxiety

Panic disorders and anxiety are another association when it comes to substance abuse. Now, as said earlier, to determine the cause of anxiety may vary among individuals. For instance, a particular individual may experience wanting to abuse substances after using specific drugs such as Xanax (benzodiazepines) in order to deal with the symptoms they are suffering from.

On the other hand, another person could have a longer experience with drug abuse and then eventually have anxiety. Various substances, such as the stimulants like cocaine, can trigger anxiety in someone who’s dependent on their regular doses. As said earlier, withdrawal symptoms can be pretty tricky. Someone who uses benzodiazepines can experience anxiety when the effect of the drug wears off.

Paranoia

Drugs such as marijuana and cocaine can lead to one feeling paranoid and the feeling may likely increase in the long run if abuse does not stop. Additionally, individuals who struggle with any sort of addiction often have to lie and hide their substance usage, because they are afraid that they might get caught. Emotionally, this is another reason why they may feel paranoid – the fear of doing someone illegal will mount their feelings and get more paranoid.

Let’s talk about the drugs that can lead to mental health issues when abused:

i. Steroids (performance and appearance enhancing)

ii Prescription drugs

iii. PCP

iv. Methamphetamine

v. MDMA

vi. Marijuana

vii. Kratom

viii. LSD

ix. Inhalants

x. Cocaine

Chronic use of various drugs lead to long-term and short-term damages in the brain. These issues, eventually, lead to multiple mental health issues such as hallucinations, aggression, anxiety, depression, and paranoia which take a huge toll on your mental and physical health.

These illnesses can make your life miserable and at times, it might feel like there’s no way out of this labyrinth you got yourself into. But don’t give up - and this goes for the person seeking treatment and their families. The way to fight these is through proper treatment, support, and perseverance.

Are DNA Testing Kits Worth a Try?

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Over the past few years, DNA testing kits have increased in popularity across the world. For some, sending off a DNA sample is an enjoyable pastime. For others, those tests hold the answers to lifelong questions. But is it actually worth a try?

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

There are many ways to acquire a testing kit. It’s good to research is which testing company is right for you. And the tests themselves are very simple. A mouth swab is taken at home, signed, and seal with an acceptance form, and a few weeks later, the results arrive.

Learning about your DNA is both exciting and enjoyable. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the molecule that contains the genetic code of organisms. The DNA in a person is a combination of the DNA from each of their parents. It’s the genetic code that determines all the characteristics of a living thing. And when you use a DNA testing kit, your results include a breakdown of your genetic ethnicity, as well as potential DNA matches.

One of the main reasons DNA testing kits are worth a try is because they’re a stepping stone to discovering your history. Many people are eager to explore their genealogy by tracing their lineages. In a world of almost 8 billion people, it’s fascinating to learn who lived before us and how we are linked to them. Humankind as a whole is a mesmerising web of relations. Most learn about their dynasty from their parents and grandparents. Stories often pass from generation to generation. However, these old tales can often become scrambled over time. In history, names have changed or been erased. Some lines abruptly come to an end, but a DNA test may just fill in the rest of that trail.

Photo by Laura Fuhrman on Unsplash

As humans, we have a natural desire to feel like we belong. We take comfort in connecting with people who are similar to us; it strengthens our sense of self. And establishing your background helps us to better understand who we are. Not all have the luxury of knowing the exact history of our ancestors. For a large majority, lines blur as their ancestors travelled and spread across the globe. KOLD News 13 tells the story of one family in Arizona, USA, a family was reconnected through the results of an AncestryDNA test. Like other in that case, some people are adopted from birth and never get the chance to learn about their past.

Moreover, as time passes, people lose touch and therefore lose track of family. It’s even harder to trace relations who lived in an era of little documentation. Still, there is hope, because DNA testing kits can help us to find those long-lost relatives.

Knowing your family history can also help you manage or minimise future illnesses. Many sicknesses that run in families can be detected in DNA kits. For example, 23andMe’s testing kit will tell you the risks of diseases such as breast cancer, early-onset Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Celiac disease. While the results are not a diagnosis, they can still inform you of any genetic markers present in your genetic makeup.

But how reliable are the tests? Surely their value depends on their accuracy? AncestryDNA claims it has an accuracy rate of 99%, as do many other genealogy companies such as 23andMe and MyHeritage. Even if the results aren’t perfect, it’s beneficial to gain at least some insight into your culture and identity. It’s important to note, if you have concerns about the way your DNA is processed, read the terms and conditions of each testing kit before submitting your sample. They will answer your questions!

Photo by Tyler Nix on Unsplash

So, are DNA testing kits worth a try? In a word, yes. They can act as a fun at-home experiment, or become the door into the deeper exploration of family history.

What is Colloidal Silver?

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

Colloidal silver is a solution that contains tiny silver particles in a liquid form that care used in a variety of different ways. It can be taken orally as a dietary supplement, applied to the skin, or maybe injected in veins. It is also an antibacterial agent that is commonly used as a wound dressing. The particles in colloidal silver are extremely small; they are about 100nm in size, and cannot be seen by our naked eyes.

Types of Colloidal Silver Products

• Ionic Silver Solutions – these solutions are clear like water, and some have a slight yellow tint. In ionic silver solutions, 90% is in the form of ionic silver, while 10% is silver particles. These may also be described as “dissolved silver.”

• Silver Protein (a/k/a Mild Silver Protein) – these products are the second most common type of colloidal silver that is available on the market. This product normally has large silver particles. Amongst the three types of colloidal silver, silver protein has the lowest particle surface area, making silver inaccessible for safe human intake.

• True Colloidal Silver – this is the least common type of colloidal silver that is available in the market due to its high cost of production, or we can say rare to find. It has the majority of the silver content, and it’s in the form of silver particles.

Forms of Colloidal Silver

• Colloidal silver in the form of gel or cream – commonly use and apply to skin infections to heal and treat burns and fight wound infections by applying the gel in a bandage and wound dressings. It is also used to cure fungal infections to humans.

• Colloidal silver in a solution – the most common form, and according to researchers, when colloidal silver is taken orally, it brings substantial antibacterial effects, and some people claim can heal other illnesses as well.  

Benefits and Uses of Colloidal Silver

Below are some of the mentioned benefits.

• Contains antimicrobial properties or germ-fighting agents

• Help heal skin wounds

• Treats fungal infections

• Treatment for acne

• Improve skin health

• Aid in conjunctivitis

• Cleanse the gut

• Boost immune system

Risks of Colloidal Silver

There are some studies that state colloidal silver has no guarantee to cure illnesses and could cause some side effects.

• Argyria - causes a person’s skin or eyes to turn a permanent silver-blue tone or bluish-gray leaving a permanent discoloration of the skin. The first one to be affected is the gums and followed by skin, eyes, nails, and deeper tissue layers.

• It reduced the ability to absorb medications like antibiotics and thyroxin.

• Headache and fatigue are also symptoms.

Pro Tip: If you would like to try colloidal silver, make sure you ask guidance from any healthcare professional first to make sure it will not affect or interact with prescriptions that you’re taking. If you experience any side effects, stop using it immediately.

I have found colloidal silver to be very helpful with overall immunity, healing wounds, and I like to have it on hand in case I feel like I a coming down with a cold or other bugs. It’s one of those tools I like to have on hand, just in case. I recommend experimenting with different brands; below are a few that I have used.

Premium Colloidal Silver

Make sure you check the following list before purchasing colloidal silver as you will want the best quality for you and your beloved ones. The higher the concentration, the more effective the product. The finer the particles, the better the results.

Advanced Healing Skin Cream

Helps to protect and beautify skin and to promote natural healing. Leaves skin feeling silky smooth, smoothes and softens calluses, and helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles. Safe for Children: Perfect for dry/damaged skin. pH balanced, moisturizes, fast-absorbing, and non-greasy. No BPA, parabens, harsh preservatives, synthetic colors, phthalates, or harmful sulfates

Colloidal Silver 550 PPM

Silver Wings Colloidal Silver can be safe for the whole family. It’s used topically for moisturizing areas of the skin, and has more beneficial organic herbs than any other silver topical product on the market. Natural Path Silver Wings provides immune support for the whole family.

Bio-Active Silver Hydrosol

First Aid Gel – Homeopathic Medicine

Bio-Active Silver Hydrosol has represents the ultimate refinement of colloidal silver. Due to its extraordinary finesse and energy, Sovereign Silver may be your most effective tool to maintain, sustain, and support your immune system in an ever-challenging and changing environment.

Promotes skin healing, fights minor skin infections, reduces topical pain & calms skin irritation. Provides relief from minor wounds, burns, bruises, sunburn, scrapes, blisters, bug bites, & acne. Naturally reduces pain, inflammation, swelling, redness & heat to promote enhanced wound healing

Sources:

Healthline: All About Colloidal Silver

Healthline: Colloidal Silver

Mayoclinic: Expert Answers Colloidal Silver

Medical News Today: Colloidal Silver, does it Work, and is it safe?

NIH: Colloidal Silver

PPT Health: Types Of Colloidal Silver

Very Well Health: Colloidal Siver – What You Need To Know

3 Ways Angels Can Help Your Life Blossom

Ever since organized religion grew into one of the most widely used spiritual systems in human culture, people have been turning to the heavens for guidance, advice, wisdom, and healing. While most people think of angels as nothing more than messengers from above, they also serve another purpose - to provide healing energy to those in need. People often wonder what exactly angels are even made of. They’re clearly not from this material world, so then what are they made of? You might be surprised to learn that angels radiate pure energy and light, and they exist on an entirely different spectrum than us humans. This means that angels exist purely as one of the most powerful healing energies in the world - light. This also means that angels have the potential to be able to help you get your spiritual, emotional, and physical strength back (i.e. heal you via their energy). While angels are most commonly used for spiritual healing purposes, you can also call on them for help with nearly all types of worldly situations. Whether that be issues of the heart (i.e. love/relationship problems), physical problems (e.g. an injury), or whatever other types of problems you might be facing - you can be rest assured that angels are there to help. Remember, angels are heavenly beings that have existed for countless millennia, they exist to help us. Don’t be shy to call angels with healing powers for help when you need it the most.

Angel Healing Doesn’t Come With Limits

Don’t think that angels can only be used to deliver messages from above. These heavenly beings are made of pure light and can deliver numerous kinds of healing (e.g. physical, emotional, spiritual, etc.). Being made of 100% light makes them able to quickly deliver all sorts of healing to us humans, they face zero restraints because of their light energy (i.e. the universe is composed of light, and angels are essentially using the fabric of the universe to heal us). Angels are similar to other types of spirits/guides, in that they will never do anything that goes against our free will. The only thing that is required of us by them is for us to ask for their assistance. For example, let us say that you’ve injured yourself, and you call on an angel for healing. You might notice a slightly warm, tingling sensation in the pain area. This is the angel at work, healing your body through their light power.

Guidance From Above

Angels have been used by humans for tens of thousands of years, for everything from guidance, to healing, to delivering messages to the gods and goddesses of above. Fast forward to today, and people are still calling on angels for their heavenly guidance. Angels are not restricted to the laws of the universe like us humans are, which means that they’re able to have a much higher level of understanding and knowledge. If you’re looking for guidance on a troubling matter in your life, you should consider calling on the angels for their expert guidance. Angels will be able to help steer you in the right direction by giving gentle, loving advice. There’s a reason why humans have always looked to the stars for wisdom - it’s because deep down we know that the angels can provide a massive help to us (and our understanding of the universe).

Angels Have the Ability to Heal Us While We Sleep

One of the most unknown facts about angel healing is that it can occur when we’re asleep. Did you know that the mind is a lot more open to new experiences/ideas while we’re asleep? It’s true. The same goes for your soul as well, which makes receiving guidance and/or healing from angels a lot more intuitive (while we’re asleep). One of the best ways that angels utilize this form of healing is by dealing with emotional-related pains. Many humans face trauma in their lives and bury it deep within their minds to protect themselves from experiencing that pain again. Angels can effectively get rid of this trauma for us, and allow us to be more open to emotional healing. If you need help dealing with a certain type of emotion, you can also call on the angels for their help and/or guidance. Many times this type of problem is the result of one or more blocked chakras. The angels can help you deal with these common issues by unblocking your chakras, or dealing with your trauma.

Channeled Message from Jophiel

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

Dear one,

I am writing to say how wonderful and beautiful you are inside and out. Too often, you feel you are only valuable for what you do or create in the physical world. But your heart and your soul is the most beautiful part of you and it is eternal! As you expand your love, your beauty grows as well. The most powerful form of beauty is the internal kind. Think of those whose hearts are so pure, you can only see the beauty within.

Much darkness in this world comes through situations that are physically beautiful but energetically very ugly. There are many beautiful places filled with suffering or people who offer you something that looks beautiful (an opportunity, a gift, or a relationship) that only causes you pain. This is why it's so important to use your intuition to look past what is shown to you. Is what you are seeing really beautiful on the inside? Or is it a beautiful veneer that covers something deeply disturbing and ugly inside? The more you learn to look past what is shown and see the true nature of people and situations, the less suffering you will have.

I support you in this and am always here to give you guidance and love. True beauty is eternal and you will not need to suffer for it. When people offer you beautiful things with strings attached, the energy beneath is full of ugliness and deceit. Beware the gifts with strings, you do not need to suffer to receive. The more people develop this understanding, the better everything will go for all humanity.

Also, if you are prized for your beauty alone, your soul will mourn for your soul understands that only a small part of you is being loved. Learn to embrace and love those who truly love and care for you inside and out. That is the purest form of love.

It is important to care for your body and practice self-care for our body is the wonderful vessel for our soul and carries the often difficult task of holding space for us in our lessons. It is important to care for and acknowledge our body and what it is telling us but it should not be the entire focus or we are missing our true identity. As you love yourself, inside and out, you will attract others who do as well. Any time you have thoughts about yourself or others that you will be good or worthy once you fix or shift certain things, that is coming from a place of judgment and not love. Send loving energy to yourself and others and when you feel judgment, ask the angels to help you release it and any messages that you are not loveable as you are.

This is particularly hard on women as they are taught that their value is mostly based on their appearance and serving others. This is not true, you are a divine being of light who is worthy and wonderful, no matter how you appear and no matter what you do for others. You are worthy, beautiful, and filled with creative, divine energy. You are so loved by us on the other side. Whenever you feel alone or unloved, remember to call on us for love and support.

Yours forever,

Jophiel

Tips to Stay Healthy When Outside of the Home

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

When you are traveling, there is the potential to be exposed to more pathogens than when you are home. Since the outbreak of coronavirus is worldwide, we need to be extra aware. CDC recommends postponing nonessential travel on countries like China and Iran in particular.

Here are some travel tips that I recommend:

• Washing your hands with soap and water. You probably hear it a lot of times, but as you know, many people do not wash their hands correctly. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds or long enough as you sing “Happy Birthday” twice and make sure to include the areas like your thumb, between your fingers, and the back of your hands.

• Use hand sanitizer. If you don’t have access to soap and water, you can use hand sanitizer products that have at least 60% alcohol.

• Avoid touching your face. We all know this is very hard because sometimes you are not aware that you are touching it. The viruses could spread on your mouth, eyes, and nose so as much as possible, keep your hands away from your T-zone.

• Wiping down your tray table in planes or trains. Yes, it would not hurt if you clean it since you are still in a public space where viruses and germs can be there for a long time.

• If you feel you are getting sick, infrared sauna and blankets can help fighting illness. Infrared sauna can strengthen your immune system because it flushes out the toxins in your body through sweating. Remember that you need to drink plenty of fluids and make yourself hydrated. I also recommend using Clove essential oil in the bottom of your feet.

• Use a surgical mask only if you’re sick. Now that the demand for surgical masks is increasing due to the outbreak, it is recommended to only use a surgical mask if you’re sick so you could avoid spreading the virus from saliva and coughing. Wearing a mask without being sick will cause your hands to touch your face more often just to keep them adjusted.

Lastly, do not panic and stay calm and grounded. I find meditation helps with this. Reducing stress will strengthen your immunity so not only will you feel calmer but it will reduce the likelihood of getting sick. Studies actually show that meditation impacts gene expression that leads to illness! I recommend the free app Insight Timer for lots of free and easy meditations.

Remember the coronavirus will pass but all these tips will help you with your health and wellness even after its long gone.

Happy and safe travels!

Sources:

Forbes: New Clues into How Meditation Can Boost The Immune System.

Mirror: 7 Ways To Improve Your Immune System

NYTimes:  Airplane Flying Coronavirus Spread

ProPublica: Coronavirus Hand Sanitizers CDC Recommended Alcohol

Washington Post: Everything You Should And Shouldn’t Do To Stay Healthy on a Plane

Angel Card Basics and How They’re Different From Tarot Cards

While angel cards might seem similar to tarot cards at first glance, take a look at Three of Wands Tarot Card Meaning: Love, Reversed & More on Terravara here, the two are actually very different from one another. The primary difference between the two is that angel card readings aren’t used to predict the future (like tarot cards). Instead, angel cards are used to provide heavenly guidance and encouragement.

Angel card reading might not be as widely known in pop culture as tarot is, but in the spiritual world angel cards have seen a huge increase in popularity (thanks to the growth of the internet). Millions of people are turning to the heavens for guidance, wisdom, and insight into their lives.

Angel Cards 101

The main purpose of an angel card reading is to receive nurturing guidance from the angelic realm. With angel card readings you can find out more about your current life situation, and receive encouraging wisdom from above.

Angel card readings aren’t used to predict the future (unlike tarot card readings). Yes, angel cards and tarot cards share some similarities (e.g. they’re both used by mediums, they’re both performed using cards, etc.), however, those examples are where the similarities end.

Angel Card Readings

What happens at an angel card reading? Well, the most common methodology that’s used involves the recipient asking a question about a certain part of their life. Romance, work, and personal issues are some of the most common things that are asked about.

After a topic has been established, the reader will use their skills to pull certain cards (and then interpret the specific meanings behind those cards). Angel card reading isn’t used to answer basic questions, but they’re more used for providing general guidance. People use angel cards for support (not for direct answers about the future).

How to Do an Angel Card Reading

Whether you don’t have immediate access to someone qualified to give angel readings, or you want to try to do your own reading, the steps outlined below detail how angel readings are typically done.

Find the Right Cards

Choosing a deck of angel cards is the obvious first step. Before you can even think about performing a reading, you need to get your hands on some cards! Many online stores sell their own decks, all of which have different images, symbols, or words.

What to Do Before Starting the Reading Process

Most people who perform angel readings need to be calm, cool and collected before starting the process. The best way to achieve this state of mind is by going to a quiet place and becoming centered.

This can be done via meditation, adjusting your vibrations/frequencies, or doing whatever practice aligns you to be more spiritually open. The point of doing this before attempting a reading is to try and attune yourself to the higher frequencies found in the angelic realm(s).

Look to the Heavens for Guidance

After you’ve acquired some cards, the next step is to bless them and ask for the heavens for some angelic guidance. Most healers/readers will take the deck of cards, hold them close, and ask for a quick blessing (before actually starting the reading process).

Shuffle the Cards and Ask Your Questions

Touching the cards imparts your energy onto them, which is an important part of the process. Shuffling them is an easy way to do this (and also gets them functioning on your same vibrational level).

After you’ve touched the cards and given them a shuffle, the next step is to ask a question. Simply ask the angels for their guidance, and then say the question out loud. When the question has been asked, you’ll need to reshuffle the cards. When you feel the need to stop on a certain card, stop, and then pull that card from the deck.

Interpreting the Message

Different decks of cards have different symbols, meanings, and interpretations. Readers can also provide their own interpretations as well, which can further complicate things.

While doing a reading on your own can provide some insight into your life, unless you’re spiritually experienced, it’s typically recommended to get you angel card reading done by a professional.

Some people like to use different types of crystals to help them read angel cards. Specifically, different types of quartz crystal stones are used by many psychics and readers to enhance their abilities. If you’re struggling to accurately interpret the cards you pull, then you should consider using quartz (to assist you during your readings).

The Best Angel Custom Gift Recommendations

Choose your favorite elements from angel cards and more to customize inspired lapel pins. Unleash your inner mojo by drawing inspiration from the more supernatural side of life with these fun lapel pins. GS-JJ.com provides free and professional team design services to help you create and produce your own badges. Wearing custom badges with unique angel brand elements can bring you different good luck. A special message and gift are included in this unique gift, Customize Now.

Channeled Message from Galadriel

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

Greetings sweet one,

I am so happy to speak with you today. I have been wanting to talk with you for quite some time. I am here to tell you how loved and supported you are. If you knew how much support you had in the spiritual realm, you would realize how much you are capable of. There is very little that is not possible for you! Most people are living in a very dim version of reality where there is very little light and the possibilities seem limited but nothing could be further from the truth. The first thing that starts to break down these walls of illusion of limitation is faith. I know it can be hard to have faith when it seems there is little hope for it, but I want you to know that when it seems the least likely that in fact the biggest change is possible. For each and every terrible situation or circumstance that you find yourself in, there is an equally good positive outcome that can result. The silver lining as you often call it. So, if you find yourself in a very bad situation, just know you can have something equally good or even better that can result.

Do not look in the rearview mirror to determine what is coming to you. The climb is not after all uphill all the time. I am here specifically for when the journey seems hard and when you feel like giving up. That is when you are the closest to a breakthrough of some kind. Call on me for help with faith and courage when you feel like giving up and for clarity with your breakthrough. So many of you have given up out of frustration when you are 99 percent there. That is when you will feel the strongest urge to give up and your faith will be called into question. That is when I am there for you the most, boosting your faith in the toughest times.

When you have learned this pattern, that the darkest is before the light, the world will open up for you. The hardest part of the darkness after all is thinking that is will go on forever. If you know that the light is coming, it will be so much easier for you. Know that the light is always comes after darkness. It is inevitable and once you understand that, everything changes and you can move forward without fear. That is what I want for you, to move forward on your path without fear. The fear is not yours on a true soul level though it certainly will feel like it when you experience it. Once you stop identifying the fear with your identity and taking ownership of it, faith becomes ever easier. In that sense, faith and fear are opposites. So, when you find yourself in fear, ask the angels to clear your fear, and replace it with faith. That is one of the most powerful prayers of all as ill-placed fear is the enemy of success.

What do you dream for yourself? What kind of life would you lead if you truly believed that anything is possible for you? I want you to know you can have what you dream. With faith, and a little time, anything is possible. You can move mountains if your faith is strong enough. Do not listen to those who tell you when something is not possible if you feel in your soul it can be yours. When something brings up strong emotion, that is often when we know we are connecting with something our soul wants. Pay attention to jealousy as well, it is often a strong indicator of what we want but think we can’t have. What we are jealous of, is most often a barometer of our truest desire. Rather that experience bitterness at not receiving what you desire. Turn your determination, focus, and faith towards your deep desire. Those who are successful, are able to turn their focus away from jealousy and bitterness towards positivity and focus. Every time you feel bitter, or hopeless, open to the possibility that this is not your true emotion, but a part of the darkness that you are moving through. When you do not allow these emotions to take hold in you, you move through the darkness more quickly.

I close with the final message that you will be successful, it is just a matter of time. But with faith and knowledge of the support you have, it come to you so quickly. Ask for help spiritually and know that there is a whole army of helpers at your disposal. Though you may feel alone, you never truly are. When you ask for all your spiritual helpers, the physical sources of help will come into your life as well, the realm of spirit always comes first. Call on your spiritual team so that your physical team will materialize. You are supported in every way. Though you may feel small, your soul is large and so powerful you probably would have a hard time believing it and when you harness the will of your own soul and receive the spiritual help available to you, you will experience miracles beyond your wildest dreams.

Yours truly,

Galadriel

P.S. When you do have your success, and I know you will, I ask that you help others who are in the same position as you have been. Tell them what you have learned and help them move through their own dark night of the soul. 

Celestial Highlights for 2020

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

The ‘Solstice Ring Of Fire Eclipse’ – You don’t want to miss this solar eclipse that will happen on June 21, 2020. Although, you must be in Ethiopia, Oman and Tibet in order to witness this super shot eclipse that will only last for 23 seconds.

Nature’s grandest spectacle: total solar eclipse – Mark your calendar on December 14, 2020, for this one of a kind beautiful display of nature called “hole in the sky.” It has assumed that it will take 2 minutes and 9 seconds to experience the total solar eclipse.

Penumbral lunar eclipses this year.

• June 5, 2020: Strawberry Moon Eclipse (Asia, Africa and Australia). The eclipse will be hard to see as the 57% of the moon will be covered by Earth’s penumbra.

• July 5, 2020: Thunder Moon Eclipse (South America, North America, and Africa). It’s impossible to observe as the 35% of the moon will be covered by Earth’s penumbra.

• November 29-30, 2020: Frosty Moon Eclipse (North and South America, Australia and East Asia). The 83% of the moon will be covered by Earth’s penumbra.

Two Supermoons and a Blue Moon - This year is worth marking down on your calendar as Supermoon will happen on March 9 and April 7, 2020. A supermoon is a full moon when their orbits move closest to the earth and look 14% bigger and 30% brighter compare to the normal or usual moons. Also, a very rare blue moon will happen also on the Halloween this year. People might not to miss that as the next blue moon Halloween will take place on 2039.

‘Giant planet week’ – Imagine the Earth as the inner planet gets between the sun and another planet, and you will see that on July 14, Jupiter will be at opposition and by July 20, it’s Saturn’s at the opposition so you don’t want to miss this one as well.

Meteor Showers – We may not see a good shooting start last year but for 2020, it gets better. Here are the three happenings to wait for:

• Lyrids meteor shower: April 21-22

• Leonids meteor shower: November 16-17

• Geminids meteor shower: December 13-14

Great Solstice Appulse – On December 21, Saturn and Jupiter will appear close together. They have every 20 years of conjunction and this won’t happen again until 2040 so you don’t want to this as well.

Mercury Retrograde Dates in 2020

• February 17 to March 10

• June 18 to July 12

• October 14 to November 3

Next Full Moon Dates:

• January 10th

• February 9th

• March 9th

• April 7th

• May 7th

• June 5th

• July 5th

• August 3rd

• September 2nd

• October 1st

• October 31st

• November 15th

• December 14th

Next New Moon Dates:

• January 24th

• February 23rd

• March 24th

• April 23rd

• May 22nd

• June 21st

• July 20th

• August 19th

• September 17th

• October 16th

• November 30th

• December 29th

Sources:

Farmers Almanac: Full Moon Dates and Times

Forever Conscious: Intuitive Astrology

Forbes: A Skywatcher’s Guide to 2020

Moon Giant: Full moons

NJ News: 13 full moons, including 2 supermoons and a blue moon, will be shining in 2020

How Your Shoes Impact Your Manifesting

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

I recently wrote a Facebook post about how much shoes impact our manifesting and I got a huge response so I decided to write a blog post about it! Here is the post itself:

“Quick manifesting tip: if you want to increase your income and ability to receive, taking stock of your shoes, socks, and other footwear can be very helpful! The feet and ankles are associated with our root chakras and blockages in the root chakra are very connected with financial fears and blocks. Getting rid of shoes that are ill-fitting, worn out, and don’t suit your taste or style will help you shift this chakra and these blocks as our feet connect us with the earth, source, and our ability to ground and release. If you have footwear that isn’t ideal, it will block all of those things! The new year is a great time to take stock and get rid of shoes that don’t fit you and don’t make you feel good (physically and aesthetically). Cheers and happy purging! 👏✨💫”

Our Feet and the Root Chakra

Our feet and ankles are associated with the root chakra so what we wear on our feet has a huge impact with how we connect with the earth and our ability to channel, root, and receive. By upgrading out shoes and purging footwear that isn’t aligned or ideal for us (painful, ill-fitting, worn out, or unattractive shoes) we can improve the energy flow to the root chakra and thereby release financial blocks and open up abundance channels. So, if you are feeling blocked financially or feeling insecure about your future, or even if you simply want to experience more abundance and trust in your life, purging old shoes can be a great step!

I have also found that when I do a lot of shifting energetically, suddenly my old shoes just don’t seem like they suit me anymore. Even if there is nothing wrong with them per se, it can be helpful to release them (give them to a friend, donation center, or if they are in really bad shape, toss them).

From a health perspective, we have a lot of pressure points in the feet (think acupressure and reflexology) so there are also direct health implications to wearing shoes that do not properly support you or shoes that are old and have lots of bacteria. If they smell, just get rid of them period. Think of your shoes, socks, and other footwear as setting the tone for the rest of you and how you show up in the world. If your feet feel squeezed, less-than-fresh, or unsupported then so will you!

This is a great time of year so purge anything that isn’t aligned with how you want to show up in the world for 2020 and beyond!

PS I had several people comment on my post about how they had released old shoes and then booked new clients, had windfalls, or other good things in terms of income – it really works!!

Probiotics and the Connection to our Digestive and Mental Health

By Esteban Tovar: blogger, podcaster and energy healer

Probiotics have become very popular in recent years. The global market for probiotics is at 15 billion USD per year and growing at a yearly rate of 7%. This could be related to the growing research that has begun to show the importance of probiotics and how they can affect our health in a positive way.

What are Probiotics?

We all have bacteria that are beneficial to us. These good bacteria are all over our bodies. They can be found on our skin, inside our mouths and even lining our organs. Probiotics are the name for the good bacteria that are in our gut. These good bacteria live in a mutual beneficial relationship with us. We can get probiotics from foods like sauerkraut, yogurt, and kimchi. There are also many forms of probiotic supplements, such as probiotic pills, drinks and even chewing gum. However, if you do decide to take probiotic supplements it might be good to take probiotics with the genera lactobacillus and bifidobacteria as they are well researched and show many benefits that aid in digestion, mood, and immunity.

Gut-Brain Axis

The gut-brain axis is a connection between the central nervous system (brain and spine) and the enteric nervous system (gut). There are other indirect systems that include additional nerves and hormones that connect the gut-brain axis. The entire microbiota (bacteria) in the gut are also a part of the gut-brain axis.

The gut and brain connection for mental health has been studied in mice. Mice that are bred germ-free and lack intestinal microbes are not able to recognize other mice when they interact with them. Mice who have intestinal microbes, but their population is later disrupted, begin to develop symptoms of anxiety and depression. In some cases, scientists can later restore the mice to more normal behavior by treating them with probiotics. Probiotics that can aid in reducing anxiety and depression are sometimes referred to as psychobiotics. These are probiotics that are specifically connected to mental health and mood.

Probiotics and Immunity

80% percent of our immune cells are found in our gut. This means that probiotics can play a large role in regulating our immune system. This can be done through the interchanging of gut flora. Probiotics compete with the bad bacteria in our gut, releasing by-products that are harmful to the bad bacteria—destroying them. This makes more room for the good bacteria to grow. The harmful effects of bad bacteria are thus reduced, and the effects of good bacteria are increased. Probiotics can also increase our gut health by strengthening the cells that line the intestine. They can also promote cell longevity and increase the immune response of the cells that line the intestinal tract.

Probiotics and Stomach Ulcers

Most stomach ulcers are caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori. These bacteria do not cause symptoms in most people, but when they do it can lead to ulcers from the acid released by the H. pylori that get through the stomach lining. A study from 2004 showed that by giving the participants yogurt with lactobacillus and bifidobacteria increased the rate of H. Pylori inhibition, which can speed up the healing process of ulcers.

Conclusion

The growing knowledge of probiotics has increased. Researchers have found that the bacteria in our gut play a large role in how our physical and mental health is affected. It appears that Probiotics will only increase in popularity with growing research.

Sources:

Future-Science: Probiotics: current landscape and future horizons

PMC: Allergy and the gastrointestinal system

PubMed: Effects of ingesting Lactobacillus- and Bifidobacterium-containing yogurt in subjects

PubMed: Growing up in a Bubble

PubMed: Microbiome, Probiotics and Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Psychscenehub: The Simplified Guide to the Gut-Brain Axis

Scientific American: Mental Health May Depend on Creatures in the Gut

Web MD: What is Pylori?

Benefits of Zinc

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

Lately, I have been experiencing the powerful benefits of zinc. As we are entering into cold and flu season, zinc has been shown to shorten the duration of colds in multiple studies. It has also helps prevent sunburn, it can help heal acne, and minimize the appearance of pores. It’s a wonderful tool for beauty and immunity. A little of zinc goes a long way so whether you are using it topically or ingesting it, take it in small doses to avoid things like stomach upset.

Healing Benefits of Zinc

Zinc is a mineral and essential nutrient that plays a very important role in our body. It helps or keeps our immune system to be strong, supports normal growth, and also helps fight bacteria and viruses. The human body cannot naturally produce Zinc so we must obtain it through food or supplements.

Below are the lists of the food that are high in Zinc:

• Shellfish: Oysters, crab, mussels, lobster, and clams

• Meat: Beef, pork, lamb, and bison

• Poultry: Turkey and chicken

• Fish: Flounder, sardines, salmon, and sole

• Legumes: Chickpeas, lentils, black beans, kidney beans, etc.

• Nuts and seeds: Pumpkin seeds, cashews, hemp seeds, etc.

• Dairy products: Milk, yogurt and cheese

• Eggs

• Whole grains: Oats, brown rice, etc.

• Certain vegetables: Mushrooms, kale, peas, asparagus, and beet greens

Skin Benefits of Zinc

- Works as an antioxidant

- Heal and rejuvenate the skin

- Effective sunscreen

- Removes dandruff and relieve itchy scalp

- Heal rashes and sores

- Fights acne

Types of Zinc Supplements:

- Zinc gluconate: Used in cold remedies that you can buy over the counter. Known examples are nasal sprays and lozenges.

- Zinc acetate: It speeds up the recovery rate and reduces symptoms when added in lozenges.

- Zinc sulfate: Cures acne and reduce its severity.

- Zinc picolinate: The zinc salt of picolinic acid and used as a dietary supplement.

- Zinc orotate: Mostly seen on supplements and available on the market.

- Zinc citrate: It’s the zinc salt of citric acid and used as dietary supplements.

Zinc Oxide is widely used to treat a variety of skin conditions. It can be used in ointments and lotions to protect our skin against harmful UV rays.

Benefits of Zinc Oxide

UV Protection – protects your skin from harmful UV rays.

Skin Healing – helps to repair your skin by keeping your skin clean and supplying the needed zinc to your skin for faster healing.

Skin Astringent – zinc works as an astringent or creams in your skin that prevents oil formation. It revives your skin by minimizing large pores and also helps to conceal your damaged skin.

Treats Acne – fights irritation of the skin and inflammation, and also has antibacterial properties

Prevent bacterial infection – Since it fights bacteria and repair tissue, it reduces the chance of infection on your skin.

In summary, Zinc had a whole host of benefits and is an economical supplement that has benefits for skin, immunity, and health. Just make sure to take an appropriate dose to avoid stomach upset.

Sources:

Alyaka: Ultimate Guide Zinc Oxide

Canyonranch: The Skin Benefits of Zinc

Healthline: Zinc Toxicity and Dosage

Mayoclinic: Drugs Supplements Zinc

National Institutes of Health: Zinc Consumer

WebMD: Zinc May Prevent and Shorten Cold

Healthline: Zinc Supplements

Mars in Libra Transit and What it Means for You

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

The “warrior planet” Mars enters Libra on October 4 where it will remain there until November 19. Mars is in a Libra for about 6 weeks so it’s a good amount of time for the transit.

The planets and What They Represent

Mars is the planet of energy, combat, aggression, competition, and force. This planet is associated with action, motivation, and drive.

Libra is the sign of justice, balance, working together, and harmony. It’s a sign that cannot be alone, and it balanced and rules our 1-on-1 partnerships.

What the Transit Means?

Anger and arguments may be lessened during this transit. We may also feel overwhelmed by indecision or have a difficult time moving forward because Mars wants to act while Libra wants to move slowly to make sure it’s the best decision.

During Mars in Libra, there will be more innovation and new alliances will be created. Mars in Libra creates a motivation to find a win-win situation for all. It’s a time of strategy: a time to build bridges a time to strengthen existing ones. It’s a great time to find the support we need to accomplish our goals, and it’s an opportune time to look for jobs and start new projects. That said, during this transit, mercury in retrograde starts October 31 and goes until November 20 so during the second half of Mars in Libra, that changes this energy.

With all of this passive energy, it may be easier to ignore underlying issues. We may he feel pressure to act that everything is fine while Mars is in Libra, but the underlying energy may be showing the opposite. When big issues are highlighted or brought to your attention, take note. You may see more passive-aggressiveness than usual under this transit.

Tips for Handling the Transit

The stress levels can rise in relationships while Mars tours Libra. Act with love, intention, and fairness to ensure the right moves but make sure you are loving towards yourself and not accepting unacceptable behavior. Mars will not visit Libra again for another 2 years so it’s great time to leave toxic people and places behind; leave them and don’t look back.

Sources:

Astrology Planet: Mars in Libra

Astroyogalove: Mars in Libra

Cafe Astrology: Mars in Signs

Dr Standley: Mars in Libra

Horoscopes Guru: Mercury Retrograde 2019

Mars in Libra: Understanding, Loving, and Fair

Saint Germain Channeled Message

By Laura Michelle Powers: Celebrity Psychic, Author, and host of Healing Powers Podcast

Hello darling, you have been working so hard. Just here to let you know that so many of the things you’ve dreamed of are coming your way. I also want to tell you that the fears and doubts that come up are not yours. That when you have strong or even just persistent negative thoughts, those are not yours and can be cleared away. Imagine them like cobwebs that you can clear out of your mind and your space. It’s normal to have them but the more you clear them away, the less likely these pesky thoughts are likely to show up for you. You have gotten so much better about clearing them so now you have much less worry and it will get easier, and easier for you.

Much of your fear is based on a belief that you can’t have so much goodness in your life. This is simply not true! You have been taught this by society and family, and people who have been taught the same thing. You are starting to realize that you don’t need to be limited in this way and just because others feel this way and live their life on those principles, doesn’t mean that you have to.

Imagine these sticky cobwebs holding you and keeping you in unhealthy situations and patterns. Keep clearing them away and eventually, there will be less and less of them that leave you feeling trapped. Eventually, you will be rising up so quickly that these old cobweb-like beliefs will not be able to attach to you at all. Then your life will really change.

You have often limited your dreams and beliefs base on what others thought was possible. You don’t need to do this. What is possible for each of us is different based on our life lessons and soul missions but mostly, it is based on what we believe is possible. More is possible for you than you have dared to dream. You are starting to see what you can have and the more you have and experience, the more you have to give the world and the world has much need for what you can offer. Be as big, and shiny, and bright as you can be. And know that when people tell you not to be so big, or bold, or beautiful or whatever they are telling you, its because those cobwebs of fear on holding them in place. Do not let their fears and reality be yours.

Focus on your light and rather than helping people directly, sometimes the best way to help others is to show them how to do it. Model it for them.

You are so loved by all of us on the other side. You ask for help but not as much as you can. The more help you get, the more you receive, and the better the world gets. The more people do this, the more the light expands until there is this amazing explosion of light and creativity and so much of the darkness just melts away.

You are a superstar, and don’t you forget it. No matter how small your body is, you have the ability to light up the entire universe. Let your light shine – I know you will!

PS Sometimes when you are so bright, it hurts others to look at you who are used to seeing things in the dark. You might feel like you are being rejected when this happens but that isn’t what is happening at all. It hurts them at first to look at your until their eyes adjust to the level of light. Give them time and don’t take in personally.

PPS Pursue your passion and vision for your life and light up the night sky and the universe. You can burn so bright that people see you from millions of miles away – that is how powerful you are.

Ever at your service,

Saint Germain