This Man Hasn't Wash Is Face For Over 60 Years (See Photos And Reasons)

God created mysterious people in this world and one of them is Haji, an 80 year old Iranian who

claims cleanliness makes him sick and decided not had a face wash since over sixty years.

It is generally acceptable for most of us to stay clean by taking our bath, brushing our teeth and doing other hygienic things but there is one man who has not washed nearly all his life and still existing.

We gathered that Haji currently lives in isolation in Dejgah village, in Southern Iran. He is probably in isolation according to his own discretion or whether he plan to leave the peoples environment because of the unbearable smell.

Because of the lack of a face wash for so many years his skin has become the colour of Earth. In fact it has become a kind of camouflage making him difficult to spot at a distance.

According to an Iranian Journalist who filed this report, “His entire self-maintenance is extremely bizarre to the likes of you and me but to Haji it`s normal. For example when he needs a haircut or a shave Haji prefers to burn his hair rather than cut it.

If you think that is strange enough then listen to his peculiar eating habits. Haji does not like fresh meat or water. He only eats food that is rotting and drinks water from a dirty and rusting old can”.

Another thing that make this man different is that most normal people like to have a puff on tobacco, but he prefer to smokes animal faeces.

Haji lives out his days in a hole in the ground similar to a grave and despite his strange way of living he seems quite content with his life.

The local villagers have tried to help Haji by building him a simple brick shack to sleep in and while he has used it on numerous occasions he does often return to his whole in the ground.

He has become a sort of celebrity among the locals who have nicknamed him Amou Haji. ‘Amou’ is the Farsi term of endearment for a kind old man.

Haji lives his life without a care in the world. He has nothing to lose and so has nothing to fear.

5 common mistakes job seekers make during interviews

So, if you have gone for job interviews many times and didn’t make it or you’re a fresh graduate and you don’t know what job interviews look like, don’t panic, Pulse career is here to help you with the common mistakes to avoid while your potential employers are grilling you.

1. Tell us about yourself 

This is usually the first question and when the hiring managers ask you this, they are not expecting you to tell them your family history or background. Instead, they want you to know about your name and your career journey, which requires you to mention your previous place(s) of work, experience and anything you’ve done that makes you qualify for the job you applied for.

Note that your interviewers have other things to do and they’re not interested in irrelevant details about you.  So save them the story about your family background and your position in the family.

2. What type of job are you looking for?

Hiring managers also ask this question just to be sure you know the exact job role you apply for. But the common answer they get from unprepared job seekers when they ask this is ‘I just want any job for now, ‘I want to work in your media company just to start from somewhere’.

If you respond to that question this way, the interviewer may no longer have interest in the conversation because it shows you don’t know what you want and that further explains the value and the mentality you are bringing into the organization.

3. Using one resume for many job applications

Always edit your resume, don't use one for every job application.  (Black Voice News)

 

Yes, many job seekers are very guilty of using only one resume to apply for different jobs irrespective of the requirements.

This only makes hiring managers ignore your resume and never bother to call you for an interview because your credential does not match their requirements. Before you apply for any job, take your time to edit your resume to make it relevant to the job you are applying for.

4. Lying in resume

In a bid to impress the hiring managers, some job seekers think spicing up their resume with false claims can get them the job believing they can defend it. Really? if the hiring managers find your resume impressive and they do their research to know more about you, what do you think would happen if they find out your credential is beautified with lies? I guess you know the answer to that question.

5. Failure to read instructions before applying for a job

Every job vacancy comes with instructions about requirements and qualifications, but sometimes, graduates who have been seeking jobs for years and are getting tired of it may out of frustration ignore the job application instructions and apply for any job role to try their luck.

Dear job seekers, this won’t work. The hiring managers know what they want and that is why the instructions about work experience and educational qualifications are always part of the requirements. So, always check them out before you apply.

8 QUALITIES OF A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP

Relationships are a big part of our life as we’re all longing to find our better half, get married and have a wonderful, loving family together. But in order to achieve that perfect goal that we see in the movies we have to understand that noting really is perfect as we all have our flaws.

It’s all about what king of flaws you’re able to accept and what kind of compromises you are willing to make. But there are certain crucial aspects that are required if you desire a healthy relationship. 

The question is – what does a healthy relationship look like? Stick with us and you’ll find all the golden keys you need to answer to find the question.

Honesty

I believe that honesty is primordially when it comes to a healthy relationship, even if the truth can be hard to swallow, it’s crucial to say it but if you’re not really prepared to avoid it – until you’re prepared but don’t take too much time – but don’t lie.

You see, if you start with a lie maybe you’ll never gain that person’s trust ever again and you’ll never know if the one you like will ever love you for who you really are, so it’s not worth it, according to Assignment Help experts. But in the first place, you have to be honest with yourself, because if you lie to yourself implicitly you’ll lie to your date. Lies are the root of any toxic relationship.

Trust & Loyalty

Honesty is also mandatory for creating trust between the two of you as no one trusts a liar. Again, in order to create a trustworthy relationship, you have to trust yourself first. If you have trust issues you’ll have to deal with them before you adventure in a new relationship, otherwise, if you bring your issues right into it eventually you’ll hurt someone you care about.

As well, if you don’t trust each other, toxic feelings like jealousy and envy will rule your relationship and turn it into a nightmare. Trust yourself and your partner and never doubt each other only if there are serious reasons to do it.

Moreover, trust depends on loyalty as you can’t trust someone who isn’t able to be loyal; who says he loves you but sleeping with other persons too – that’s not love. You have to be loyal to each other in order to genuinely trust each other. Relationship means commitment after all.

Communication

Nothing truly good, legal, healthy, and successful can be achieved without good communication, advices the specialist from Edubirdie. Not in the business world and not in your private life. I mean, how many mixed-up stories you heard about yourself because of poor communication?

Personally, I heard many about myself and it happens exactly the same in the relationship. If you communicate poorly, you live a pot of space for meaning, tone, gestures, and even texts interpretations which most of the time lead to conflicts because you misunderstand each other.

Independent yet Comfortable

Dependence of any sort is neither good nor healthy. So, why depending on someone isn’t called yet one of the biggest reasons why relationships don’t work? Independence is mandatory for a healthy relationship because at the end of the day and life when we close our eyes all we have is us. Therefore, you should have your own life, to focus on you and becoming a better version of you and then on the relationship. Prioritize yourself first and then the relationship, in general, and know when you have to pay more attention to your partner.

Respect

Name one healthy relationship which is not based on respect and I can guarantee you that it’s all a façade which can be easily spotted out if you pay attention. If you don’t respect your partner decisions and opinions and you do whatever you like despite how you make your partner feel how you can even name each other partners?

Equality

If you don’t believe that your lover is at least your equal why are you even with that person if you consider him/her way bellow you? Relationships are all about equality and equity even if you are better at something, remember that your lover can do things that you never will. Which is ok, you complete each other and you make a great team together. There’s no need to make one of you the boss, in fact, is toxic to do that.

Responsibility

No relationships are perfect, so don’t expect yours to be as it will never be – the truth is harsh, I know. But what matters when you have a disagreement is to be mature enough to take responsibility for your actions because no one fights with himself or without a reason. Both of you are responsible for what happened but sometimes one is guiltier than the other.

Compassion

Compassion is not particularly mandatory as not everyone is a compassionate person and is not really something you can learn or you have to be but is certainly a big sign of a healthy relationship.

To have compassion means to have deep care, understanding, and desire to help your partner overcome his/her struggles – to genuinely support your partner in hard times. Therefore, there’s nothing healthier than being compassionate lovers as you’ll be able to make it work no matter how dark the days turn.

Conclusion

We all want to be in a relationship, but if that relationship isn’t healthy and you can’t make it healthy there shouldn’t really be a relationship because you’ll only harm each other. Relationships are about love and compassion, but if you don’t treat it well it can turn into something toxic.

Not everyone we like is a match for us and that’s ok because you should wait until you find someone you can build a healthy relationship with. Remember that even the healthiest relationships can have their downs and turn into something toxic, but it’s all about how you manage to overcome it because real love endures even in the darkest times.

WHO CHEAT MORE IN A RELATIONSHIP MAN OR WOMAN.

Women are not always victims of cheating as we have been made to believe. These stats and figures seem to be proof.

The occurrences of cheating and its effects on relationships cannot even be argued or denied.

What can be argued, however, is the popular perception people have about the major perpetrators of the vile act.

Many times when we hear of cheating, many are quick to link men to its commonness. And that is really understandable. The numerous cheating stories shared on social media and the Internet are posted by more women than men. Seeing this, it’ll seem that men are breaking hearts and betraying trust more than women.

But is this really conclusive evidence of anything? Facts, stats that show that women cheat more than men Well, it certainly seems so.

There’s a video circulating on social media where a female relationship expert tells Hafeez and Chris , the anchors of the Roommates Podcast that in her experience, women actually cheat than men , and of course, the anchors were both taken aback. We were, too.

“It is absolutely true,” she says to establish her claim that women are worse cheats than men.

When asked again, she answers again with a specific “yes , it is very true.”

Hers is not the only claim indicting women of being more terrible at cheating than we previously thought.

Recently, the result of a certain study was shared on social media which apparently shows that Nigerian women are only second to Jamaican in the world when it comes to lying to men about the paternity of their kids.

The popular belief remains that when women cheat, they have a greater ability than men to hide the affair. Because they are hardly suspected while men are usually caught in the act, it has helped to further fuel the idea that men cheat more than women.

Dr. David Holmes , a psychologist at Manchester Metropolitan University said that, “The biggest difference [between men and women who cheat] is that women are much better at keeping their affairs secret.”

Women are so good at hiding their affairs, in fact, that Dr. Holmes seems to affirm the claim about paternity in that paragraph above.

“If you look at the studies into paternity, even conservative figures show that between 8% and 15% of children haven't been fathered by the man who thinks he's the biological parent,” he says.

Infidelity is costly — it can lead to tears, break-ups, divorces and even violence. So why do people do it?

“One of the biggest myths in relationships is that people think, ‘Oh, my partner cheated therefore there is something wrong. There’s an underlying problem either with me or the relationship.’ That’s not necessarily the case,” Selterman told TODAY.

“This speaks to the idea that humans are promiscuous, and even if things are going well, that does not necessarily mean that there’s not a desire for more — at least in terms of more experiences with other partners.”

8 reasons why people cheat

1. Lack of love

Feeling that your partner is not “The One” for you. No longer feeling passionate love or even falling out of love. Perceiving the relationship to be boring, dull or stagnant. “Lack of love is a powerful motivation — it’s definitely one of the stronger ones,” Selterman noted.

2. Sexual desire

Feeling unsatisfied with the sex life you have in your relationship, perhaps because your partner has lost interest or you want to try something new that your partner can’t give you. “We also found people might be motivated to test the waters with regards to their own orientation or identity,” he said.

3. Neglect

Feeling that your partner is not paying enough attention to you or not spending enough time with you. Not feeling appreciated.

4. Situation

When you’re in a different setting or not quite yourself — perhaps when you’re on vacation, drunk or under a lot of stress — you may have a momentary urge to sexually explore that would not necessarily be part of your stable, everyday behavior. “Landmark events,” such as an upcoming 40th birthday, may also lead you to cheat. One study showed “9-enders“ — people who are 29, 39, 49 and so on — may seek an affair as they approach a new decade to try to find meaning in their life.

5. Variety

You live by the motto “You only live once,” so you want to try lots of sexual experiences with as many partners as possible.

6. Low commitment

This is oriented toward people’s definitions of exclusivity, Selterman said. “Some people say they never discussed being exclusive with their partner or ‘I didn’t want to get too close,’ or ‘I don’t envision a future with this person,’” he noted. “They’re in a relationship, but they haven’t specified that the commitment level is high or the exclusivity is there.”

7. Esteem

You feel sleeping with others will improve your sense of self-worth, signal your independence or increase your social status and popularity.

8. Anger

You suspect or know your partner has betrayed you, so you want to get even. “The motivation is revenge,” Selterman. 

... 

COMMON CAUSES OF CHEATING IN RELATIONSHIP. 

The rise in the number of cheating women could be due to the use of social media. With social media, private chats and dating sites being available to everyone, avenues to cheat and get into side relationships have become increased.

Work place proximity has also been listed as a possible cause. Compared to the decades before now, more women are no longer staying at home as caregivers, neither are they content to take the traditional gender roles of the past years. The fact that there are more women in the workplace and all sectors provides more opportunities for workplace romance to blossom

Infidelity is one of the most distressing things you can experience in a romantic relationship, so it's very important to understand why lovers are motivated to be unfaithful, he added.

The study, based on responses from 495 people who had cheated on a partner, found eight basic motivations for infidelity. The participants were young, 20 years old on average, but their reasons for straying are common themes that could apply across other ages, Selterman said.

Here are eight reasons why people cheat on their partners:

And apparently, just like men, women are jumping at the opportunity to get frisky with their colleagues and other people connected to them through work.

Finally, while there can be endless studies and research trying to establish a final truth to this unending argument about cheating between the genders, one thing remains obvious: men cheat and women cheat. That can't be argued.

Nutritional Benefit of locust bean to human.

Scientific classification of locust bean

Kingdom: plantae

Order: fabales

Family: fabaceae

Genus: parkia

Species: p. biglobosa

Locust bean, commonly known as “Iru” by the Yorubas, “Dawa” by Igbos, this is a local seasoning or condiment used in soup s and stews. A very popular soup ingredient globally and popularly known as African locust bean with the botanical name, parkia biglobosa. It takes a long process in making locust bean and after the process it looks great but smell a lot but looks good in soup, make it taste great and add a great savor to the soup which also smell delicious.

Apart from this, locust bean is the single most significant or important ingredient guaranteed to take your soup s, stew or mixed vegetables from just okay to great. It can be found only in Africa and its primarily grown for its pod s that contain both a sweet pulp and valuable seeds. The most valuable part of it are

·        lipid (29%)

·        protein (35%)

·        carbohydrate (16%)

·        good source of fat and calcium for rural dwellers.

Benefit

·        Locust bean helps to promote good sight

·        It helps drive away hypertension and disease condition like stroke and diabetes

·        It contains tannins, astringe substance found in many plants that helps treat diarrhea

·        The decoction of the bark is also used as bat against fever and as a hot mouth wash to steam and relieve toothache

·        It serves as digestion aid and much more

Locust bean is added to everything not only to because it tastes good and can serve as a tastier alternative to other spice cubes

Boost your fertility without delay by adding bitter leaf to your diet

Bitter leaf has a lot of benefits to your health, and a surprising fact is that it boosts fertility.

Bitter leaf contains nutrient that boost fertility [Pulse Nigeria]

Most people are more familiar with the other benefits of bitter leaf, but most people are yet to unlock its effect on fertility.

According to research, the bitter leaf turned into a drink or juice is strongly has a positive effect on fertility. It boosts the functions of the reproductive system, balance hormones and help the ovary release healthy eggs.

Bitter leaf juice and tea helps in reducing the estrogen level in the blood. A high level of estrogen in the body prevents ovulation, causing infertility. Extracts from a bitter leaf, balance the progesterone and estrogen levels hence, improving ovulation and fertility. If you have infertility issue, you should consider adding a bitter leaf to your diet, but it has to be at the right amount.

Bitter leaf juice, tea or soup can boost fertility by ensuring your reproductive hormones are balanced, boost the immune system and controls your blood pressure. 

Stop putting your pictures on social media

Parents and youths have been warned not to post their photographs or that of their children online amid fears they could fall into the wrong hands.

Herbal wizard, Nana Yeboah Kumi in an interview on SVTV Africa told host DJ Nyaami how predators and other dangerous individuals could glean a wealth of sensitive information about them off one seemingly-innocent image.

He added that the sharing of pictures online could make them vulnerable to predators by revealing their location and put their lives in danger.

“Before you share your pictures on social media, you must consider the potential consequences of what you post. It’s a bad habit of sharing your pictures on social media. When you come to end, for instance, I have about 2,000 pictures mostly from social media. These sorts of images can be used to gather personal information such as location, a child’s full name, or even birth dates to paint a picture of who they are. So sharing your pictures on social media is very risky and the youth especially must think twice about what they share on social media before it is too late.”

The chief executive officer of Sonkyi herbal awareness center argues that predators can easily piece together information from a photo posted online.

He further pointed out that, the donation of used clothes to people or orphanages is bad and must be stopped immediately.

He explained that “No matter how well you wash your shirt, your spirit is still in it and so no matter how good or worn-out it looks; it’s not advisable to give it out to anyone since your spirit would still be in it and can be used against you.”

He also advised men to desist from licking their women in the name of having fun for the reason that, the act could dumb and kill their spirit completely

Common mistakes women make in new relationships.

Photo Credit:streetzgossips

See Common mistakes women make in new relationships:

1. Being too open and transparent: Ladies, do not give too much information immediately. It might be overwhelming for him.
2. Playing hard to get: Because he likes the chase does not mean that you should continue playing hard to get when you both start the new relationship.
3. Texting him every time: Do not ignore your own life and focus on texting him repeatedly. And don’t communicate by SMS all the time, save some for one on one conversations.
4. Shying away from defining the relationship: When he is set to define the relationship, have the talk.
5. Respect boundaries: Self-explanatory

Eating adequate proportion of onions can control hypertension » Health News

Assistant Chief Dietician, Dietetics Department, University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Mrs Motunrayo Oduneye, has said that consuming onions in adequate proportion could help lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients.

She stated this during an interview with Nigerian Tribune, noting that consumption of onions could help prevent some cardio-vascular diseases.

Mrs Oduneye disclosed that onions are very rich in anti-inflammatory properties and flavonoids could help decongest blood clots in hypertensive patients.

She added that eating onions will also reduce the level of cholesterol in obese patients who are hypertensive.

“Onions contain a particular flavonoid called Quercetin which triggers healthy reaction in hypertensive patients. Quercetin has anti-oxidant  and anti-inflammatory effects which might help reduce inflammaation, kill cancer cells, control blood sugar and prevent heart diseases. These anti-inflammatory properties of onions help to decongest blood clots in patients with hypertension thereby regulating the blood pressure.

“We advive patients to eat a lot of vegetables with their carbohydrate foods. Eating onions adequately could help lower blood pressure. They can slice a bulb of onion into white rice. Even as they do this, they should ensure the onions are steamed with little heat, it shouldn’t be left to deplete its healthy benefits.”

According to the dietician, onion as a vegetable and spice contains other health benefits.

“Onion is a common spice that people use for cooking, although some eat it raw. Onions contain many other healthy properties that boost body immunity against various heart disease conditions.”

In addition, Mrs Oduneye said onions which are very rich in Vitamin C can also provide anti-microbial nutrients.

“Instead of resorting to the use of antibiotic for bacterial infections, especially if you are treating cough, you can slice some quantity of raw onions to eat in the morning before food. You can munch on it.”

The dietician who also said that onions are rich in fibre content, urged adults to take advantage of the health benefits of onions

How to Overcome depression : 5 Things you Can Do.

Depression is more than just feeling sad. Everyone feels low, upset, or unmotivated from time to time, but depression is much more than simply being down in the dumps. Depressive disorder is a mood disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels and behaves. Signs and symptoms of depression can range from hopelessness and fatigue, to a loss of interest in life, physical pain, and even suicidal thoughts. The DSM-5 definition of depression states that should a person present with these symptoms for a period of two weeks, the individual is experiencing a depressive episode.

Types of Depression: 10 Most Common depressive Disorders

√ Clinical Depression 

√ Dysthymia Manic Depression 

√ Postpartum Depression

√ Seasonal Depression 

√ Psychotic Depression

√   Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

√ Atypical Depression 

√ Situational Depression

√ Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder. 

Signs and symptoms of depression can range from hopelessness and fatigue, to a loss of interest in life, physical pain, and even suicidal thoughts. The DSM-5 definition of depression states that should a person present with these symptoms for a period of two weeks, the individual is experiencing a depressive episode.

Major Depression (Clinical Depression)

Major depressive disorder , also known as unipolar or clinical depression, is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or a lack of interest in outside stimuli. You might have this type of depression if you have five or more of the following symptoms on most days for 2 weeks of longer. At least one of the symptoms must be a depressed mood or loss of interest in activities.

~ Loss of interest or pleasure in your activities

~ Feelings of worthlessness or guilt. 

~ Negative thinking with inability to see          positive solutions. 

~ Feeling restless or agitated

    Inability to focus. 

~ Lashing out at loved ones

    Irritability

~ Withdrawing from loved ones

    Increase in sleeping

~ Exhaustion and lethargy

~ Morbid, suicidal thoughts

~ Weight loss or

What is a major depressive episode?

A major depressive episode is a period of two weeks or longer in which an individual experiences the symptoms of major depression such as hopelessness, loss of pleasure, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. In particular, the person must experience a low mood and/or a loss of interest in activities.

Is major depressive disorder curable?

Major depressive disorder is a condition that can ebb and flow across a person’s lifetime. Major depressive disorder is therefore not considered “curable,” but it with the right treatment the symptoms of depression can be managed and alleviated over time.

What is the best treatment for major depressive disorder?

A variety of treatment options are available for major depressive disorder, including psychotherapy, anti-depressant medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and natural treatments. The treatment plan will differ for each person depending on individual needs, though the “best” treatment for major depressive disorder is often thought to be a combination of medication and therapy.

Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder)

Dysthymia , also known as persistent depressive disorder, is a long-term form of depression that lasts for years and can interfere with daily life, work, and relationships. People with dysthymia often find it difficult to be happy even on typically joyous occasions. They may be perceived as gloomy, pessimistic, or a complainer, when in reality they are dealing with a chronic mental illness. Symptoms of dysthymia can come and go over time, and the intensity of the symptoms can change, but symptoms generally don’t disappear for more than two months at a time.

Your Questions Answered

How is dysthymia different from major depression?

The depressed mood experienced with dysthymia is not as severe as major depressive disorder, but still evokes feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of pleasure. While the symptoms of depression must be present for at least two weeks to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder, a diagnosis of dysthymia requires having experienced a combination of depressive symptoms for two years or more.

Your Questions Answered

What is a major depressive episode?

A major depressive episode is a period of two weeks or longer in which an individual experiences the symptoms of major depression such as hopelessness, loss of pleasure, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. In particular, the person must experience a low mood and/or a loss of interest in activities.

Is major depressive disorder curable?

Major depressive disorder is a condition that can ebb and flow across a person’s lifetime. Major depressive disorder is therefore not considered “curable,” but it with the right treatment the symptoms of depression can be managed and alleviated over time.

What is the best treatment for major depressive disorder?

A variety of treatment options are available for major depressive disorder, including psychotherapy, anti-depressant medications, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and natural treatments. The treatment plan will differ for each person depending on individual needs, though the “best” treatment for major depressive disorder is often thought to be a combination of medication and therapy.

Dysthymia (Persistent Depressive Disorder)

Dysthymia , also known as persistent depressive disorder, is a long-term form of depression that lasts for years and can interfere with daily life, work, and relationships. People with dysthymia often find it difficult to be happy even on typically joyous occasions. They may be perceived as gloomy, pessimistic, or a complainer, when in reality they are dealing with a chronic mental illness. Symptoms of dysthymia can come and go over time, and the intensity of the symptoms can change, but symptoms generally don’t disappear for more than two months at a time.

Your Questions Answered

How is dysthymia different from major depression?

The depressed mood experienced with dysthymia is not as severe as major depressive disorder, but still evokes feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of pleasure. While the symptoms of depression must be present for at least two weeks to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder, a diagnosis of dysthymia requires having experienced a combination of depressive symptoms for two years or more.

What is meant by “high-functioning” depression?

The term high-functioning depression is often used to refer to dysthymia, or persistent depressive disorder, as due to the chronic nature of this type of depression, many individuals living with the disorder continue to go through the motions of life in a robotic way, seemingly fine to those around them.

What is double depression?

Double depression is a complication of dysthymia. Over time, more than half of people with dysthymia experience worsening symptoms that lead to the onset of a full syndrome of major depression on top of their dysthymic disorder, resulting in what is known as double depression.

Manic Depression (Bipolar Disorder)

Bipolar disorder, sometimes referred to as manic depression , is a mental health condition that causes extreme fluctuations in mood and changes in energy, thinking, behavior, and sleep. With manic depression, you don’t just feel “down in the dumps;” your depressive state may lead to suicidal thoughts that change over to feelings of euphoria and endless energy. These extreme mood swings can occur more frequently–such as every week–or show up sporadically–maybe just twice a year.

Mood stabilizers, such as lithium, can be used to control the mood swings that come with bipolar disorder, but individuals are also prescribed a variety of different medications including antidepressants and atypical antipsychotics.

Your Questions Answered

Is bipolar disorder genetic?

While scientists have not pinpointed one single root cause, it appears genetics are likely to account for around 60-80% of the risk for developing bipolar disorder, indicating the key role heredity plays in this condition. Your risk of developing bipolar disorder is also increased significantly if you have a first-degree relative suffering from the disorder.

Can bipolar disorder be cured?

Currently, there is no cure for bipolar disorder, but it can be managed successfully with a treatment plan involving a combination of medication and psychotherapy.

What’s the difference between bipolar 1 and bipolar 2 disorder?

While all types of bipolar disorder involve extreme highs and lows, the main difference between bipolar 1 and bipolar 2 is the severity of the manic symptoms. With bipolar 1 the mania, or elevated mood, is typically more severe than with bipolar 2. With bipolar 2, the individual experiences hypomania, a less severe form of mania that result in behaviors that are atypical for the individual but not abnormal to society at large.

Postpartum Depression (Peripartum Depression)

Sad feelings and crying bouts that follow childbirth are known as the “baby blues.” The baby blues are common and tend to decrease within a week or two. This type of sadness is often attributed to the dramatic hormonal changes that follow childbirth. Around one in seven women will experience something more extreme than the typical baby blues. However, women that give birth and struggle with sadness, anxiety or worry for several weeks or more may have postpartum depression (PPD). Signs and symptoms of PPD include:

Feeling down or depressed for most of the day for several weeks or more

Feeling distant and withdrawn from family and friends

A loss of interest in activities (including sex)

Changes in eating and sleeping habits

Feeling tired most of the day

Feeling angry or irritable

Having feelings of anxiety, worry, panic attacks or racing thoughts

Your Questions Answered

Can postpartum depression start months after giving birth?

Postpartum depression does not necessarily begin immediately following the birth of a baby. Postpartum depression symptoms may start in the first few weeks following childbirth, though sometimes, symptoms of PPD do not begin until months after birth and can emerge at any time during the baby’s first year.

Why does postpartum depression occur?

While the exact cause of postpartum depression is unknown, it is thought to be a result of a variety of factors including: the physical changes resulting from pregnancy; anxiety about parenthood; hormonal changes; previous mental health problems; lack of support; a complicated pregnancy or delivery, and/or changes to the sleep cycle.

 postpartum depression come and go?

“Women who have suffered from postpartum depression (PPD) are always at risk for future mood episodes thereafter the first experience of depression, potentially since the “switch” for having those episodes is now flipped after the PPD, and also since the stress of motherhood does not go away and can even worsen depending on psychological stressors that are ongoing,” says Jean Kim, M.D. “If the woman is taking medication for the depressive symptoms it may lose effectiveness for whatever reason at several months out, so it wouldn’t necessarily be unheard of for a relapse to occur several months after the initial PPD episode.”

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression related to the change of season. People who suffer from SAD notice symptoms beginning and ending at about the same times each year. For many, symptoms start in the fall and continue into the winter months, though it is possible for SAD to occur in the spring or summer. In either case, symptoms of depression, such as hopelessness, fatigue, and loss of interest or pleasure in activities, start out mild and progress to be more severe as the weeks go on. Those who experience SAD in the winter have also noted the following unique symptoms:

Heaviness in arms and legs

Frequent oversleeping

Cravings for carbohydrates/weight gain

Relationship problems

Your Questions Answered

How is seasonal affective disorder (SAD) treated?

Treatment plans for seasonal affective disorder (SAD) may include medication, psychotherapy, light therapy, or a combination of these options to manage the depression symptoms. Talk therapy can be an invaluable option for those with SAD. A psychotherapist can help you identify patterns in negative thinking and behavior that impact depression, learn positive ways of coping with symptoms, and institute relaxation techniques that can help you restore lost energy.

Can seasonal affective disorder happen in the summer?

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) in the summer months is more common than you might think. Around 10% of individuals with SAD begin noticing the signs of depression in the summer months.

Why does seasonal affective disorder occur?

The exact cause of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is still unclear, though experts have made a variety of hypotheses related to the cause of the disorder and why some experience more severe symptoms than others. It has been suggested that the effects of light, a disrupted body clock, low serotonin levels, high melatonin levels, traumatic life events, and even physical illness are connected to the onset of SAD.

Psychotic Depression

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, around 20 percent of people with depression have episodes so severe that they develop psychotic symptoms. A diagnosis of major depressive disorder with psychotic features may be given to individuals suffering from a combination of the symptoms of depression and psychosis : a mental state characterized by disorganized thinking or behavior; false beliefs, known as delusions, or false sights or sounds, known as hallucinations.

Your Questions Answered

What are the early signs of psychosis?

Early psychosis refers to the period when a person first starts to appear as though they are losing contact with reality. The early signs of psychosis include suspicion of others, withdrawing socially, intense and inappropriate emotions, trouble thinking clearly, a decline in personal hygiene and a drop in performance at work or school.

How is psychotic depression diagnosed?

To be diagnosed with major depressive disorder with psychotic features the individual must have a depressive episode that lasts two weeks or longer and be experiencing delusions and hallucinations. There are two different types of major depressive disorder with psychotic features, both of which prominently feature delusions and hallucinations. The individual experience major depressive disorder with mood-congruent psychotic features (the content of the hallucinations and delusions is consistent with depressive themes) or with mood-incongruent psychotic features (the content of the hallucinations and delusions does not involve depressive themes).

Can psychotic depression turn into schizophrenia?

Depression is a mood disorder and schizophrenia is a psychotic illness; while both psychotic depression and schizophrenia share psychosis as a symptom, there is no reason to think that psychotic depression would morph into schizophrenia. Conversely, individuals with schizophrenia can become depressed when they realize the stigma surrounding their illness, the poor prognosis, and loss of function.

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder , or PMDD, is a cyclic, hormone-based mood disorder, commonly considered a severe and disabling form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). While up to 85% of women experience PMS, only around 5% of women are diagnosed with PMDD, according to a study in the American Journal of Psychiatry. While the core symptoms of PMDD relate to depressed mood and anxiety, behavioral and physical symptoms also occur. To receive a diagnosis of PMDD, a woman must have experienced symptoms during most of the menstrual cycles of the past year and these symptoms must have had an adverse effect on work or social functionin. 

What is the difference between PMDD and PMS?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a more serious condition than premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The symptoms present with PMS do not generally interfere with everyday function and are less severe in their intensity. While it is normal for women to experience fluctuation in mood in the days leading up to menstruation, the psychological symptoms of severe depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts do not occur with PMS.

What is the best medication for PMDD?

For the symptoms of PMDD related to mood and anxiety, a group of antidepressants named selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can be prescribed; sertraline, fluoxetine, and paroxetine hydrochloride have all been approved by the FDA as medications which may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.

How long do PMDD symptoms last?

The symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) typically reoccur each month prior to and during menstruation. Symptoms usually begin 7-10 days prior to menstruation and decrease in intensity within a few days of the period beginning. Symptoms disappear completely until the next premenstrual phase.

Atypical Depression

Despite its name, atypical depression may in fact be one of the most prominent types of depression. Atypical depression is different from the persistent sadness or hopelessness that characterizes major depression. It is considered to be a “specifier” or subtype of major depression that describes a pattern of depression symptoms, including: oversleeping, overeating, irritability, heaviness in the arms and legs, sensitivity to rejection, and relationship problems. One of the main hallmarks of atypical depression in the ability for the mood of the depressed individual to improve following a positive event.

Your Questions Answered

How serious is atypical depression?

Just as with any type of depression, atypical depression is a serious mental health condition, and is associated with an increased risk of suicide and anxiety disorders. Atypical depression often starts in the teenage years, earlier than other types of depression, and can have a more long-term (chronic)

How can we treat atypical depression?

Atypical depression responds well to treatment comprised of both medications and psychotherapy. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and other antidepressants, such as SSRIs and tricyclic antidepressants are the most common medications prescribed to treat atypical depression.

Can atypical depression be cured?

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment to “cure” atypical depression, though it can be successfully managed with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Remission is the goal for atypical depression, though it is important to remember that depression has a high risk of reoccurrence so it is important to be conscious of any reemerging symptoms.

Situational Depression (Reactive Depression/Adjustment Disorder)

Situational depression, otherwise known as reactive depression or adjustment disorder, is a short-term, stress-related type of depression. It can develop after a person experiences a traumatic event or a series of changes to their everyday life. Examples of events or changes that may trigger situational depression include but are not limited to: divorce, retirement, loss of a friend, illness, and relationship problems. Situational depression is therefore a type of adjustment disorder, as it stems from a person’s struggle to come to terms with the changes that have occurred. Most people who experience situational depression begin to have symptoms within about 90 days following the triggering event.

How is situational depression different from clinical depression?

If you have situational depression you will experience many of the same symptoms a someone with major depressive disorder. The key difference is situational depression is a short-term response triggered by an event in someone’s life and the symptoms will resolve when the stressor no longer exists, or the individual is able to adapt to the situation. Unlike situational depression, major depressive disorder is considered a mood disorder and typically involves chemical imbalances in the brain.

How is situational depression diagnosed?

In order to be diagnosed with situational depression, a person must be experiencing psychological and behavioral symptoms within 3 months of an identifiable stressor, that are beyond what would be considered an ordinary response, and improve within 6 months after the stressor is removed.

Who is at risk of developing situational depression?

There is no way to predict which person out of a group of people experiencing the same stressor will develop situational depression, though it is believed your social skills before the event and the way in which you deal with stress may play a role.

There is no way to predict which person out of a group of people experiencing the same stressor will develop situational depression, though it is believed your social skills before the event and the way in which you deal with stress may play a role.

Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD)

DMDD is a fairly recent diagnosis, appearing for the first time in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) in 2013. The DSM-5 classifies DMDD as a type of depressive disorder, as children diagnosed with DMDD struggle to regulate their moods and emotions in an age-appropriate way. As a result, children with DMDD exhibit frequent temper outbursts in response to frustration, either verbally or behaviorally. In between outbursts, they experience chronic, persistent irritability.

Your Questions Answered. 

How is DMDD different from bipolar disorder?

While the key feature of DMDD is irritability, the hallmark of bipolar disorder is the presence of manic or hypomanic episodes. Although DMDD and bipolar disorder can both cause irritability, manic episodes tend to occur sporadically, while in DMDD the irritable mood is chronic and severe.

What is the treatment for DMDD?

A combination of psychotherapy and parent management techniques are the first step towards teaching children coping skills for regulating their moods and emotions and teaching parents how to manage outbursts. However, medication may also be prescribed if these methods alone are not effective.

Can children grow out of DMDD?

Children are unlikely to simply grow out of DMDD without learning how to effectively regulate their moods and emotions. If you think your child may have DMDD, seek advice from a mental health professional for diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.

Living with depression can feel like an uphill battle, but it isn’t something you have to face alone.Take our free, confidential depression test , as a preliminary self-assessment for the symptoms of depression.

It’s important to know that physical illness also increases the risk of developing severe depressive illness. Depression can be caused by a whole variety of medical conditions that effect the body’s systems or from chronic illnesses that cause ongoing pain. It is particularly common among those who have illnesses such as the following:

Cancer

Itronary heart disease

Diabetes

Epilepsy

Multiple sclerosis

Stroke

Alzheimer’s disease

HIV/AIDS

Parkinson’s disease

Systemic lupus erythematosus

Rheumatoid arthritis

What’s more, depression can be induced by certain substances and medications, so be prepared to have an open and honest discussion with your mental health professional about your alcohol intake and any prescribed or recreational drug use.

Try These 5 Blues-Busters

#1. Take a different view. With depression often comes a psychological myopia: the sufferer robotically repeats to him or herself soul-sucking negative thoughts: “ Nothing I try ever works out ” “ How could I have been so stupid? ” “ I am not worthy of being loved”. A patient deep in the throes of that kind of thinking can, if unchecked, spend an entire session staring at one spot—often the floor.

At those moments I prod, “You are so stuck on only seeing things one way that you miss any other possible view. Literally. If you force yourself to look up, there are a variety of objects in the room to observe and ponder—a bookcase; lamps: paintings; a window with sunlight streaming in… It’s not that my office is so fascinating, but there is so much you miss when you refuse to look.”

The patient then sheepishly lifts his or her eyes to take in the entirety of the room (“ Oh, I never noticed that funny placard !”) as I hammer home the point: “There are a plethora of ways to view anything. Instead of continually convincing yourself everything is hopeless consider all the other options. There is always a Plan B.”

#2. Visualize a happy memory. When a patient continually revisits a painful memory (say, of a romantic rejection or failed business enterprise), it can tip him or her into near emotional catatonia. I say, “Wait, before you ‘go down the rabbit hole’ and all the dark feelings overwhelm you, close your eyes and go to a happy memory.”

*Paul remembered, “ When I graduated from college, looked out at the audience and saw my family looking so proud, I felt amazing and powerful. ” I said, “Great, go there. Let’s relive that wonderful experience.” As he described details from that lovely day (his mother’s periwinkle blue dress; standing on the stage holding his diploma…) his posture went from slumped over to peacock proud. He actually smiled.

I suggested, “The moment you feel yourself sliding back to an awful memory that takes you under, take a breath and instantly conjure up graduation day. Counter the gloom with an immediate dose of positivity!”

#3. Tell Me Something Good. A depressed person has earned a PhD in The Art and Science of Self-Hatred. When I ask, “How do you see yourself?” I get answers like: “ I’m boring .” “ I’m a coward .” “ I’m ugly .” “ I’m not smart .” To the speaker, these sentiments are absolute truths; his or her sense of identity, a soul-less place to live that is familiar, thus offering a ‘comfortable discomfort’, with no exit door. As long as these annihilating beliefs rule your self-image, nothing good can break through.

When I ask, “Tell me good qualities about yourself,” I am initially greeted by silence. Then I hear a halting, “ I’m kind ” or “ I’m caring .” If the patient gets stuck, I help out: “You’re a loving mother.” “You are a survivor.” “You are a nurturer” “You are super considerate.” “You are reliable”…

As we construct a list, I ask the patient to write down the wonderful attributes and keep repeating them when the ‘toxic wheel of self-hating talk’ begins. I suggest asking friends and family members to email a list of positive qualities they value in my patient.

The next step will be “to compile, print out the list and carry it in your wallet like a talisman.” For extra inoculation against the constant negativity, I suggest the patient write positive qualities on post-its and sprinkle them around the house: stick “ I have gorgeous eyes ” on the bathroom vanity, place “ I’m reliable ” on the refrigerator and so on…

You are what you ‘feed’ yourself spiritually speaking. Exchange the “ everything I hate about myself ” mantra to “ all the qualities that make me a special, unique, lovable person. ”

#4. Make Plans. When a person is depressed the only place he or she wants to be is in bed, preferably under the covers with the shades drawn. Lifting up the phone to hear a friendly voice, much less having plans outside the bare minimum (work, school, grocery store) feels way too difficult.

The Internet has made it dangerously seductive to keep to oneself. Studies show that limiting social media to approximately 30 minutes a day decreases depression.

I tell patients, “It’s a catch-22 that when you are depressed the last thing you feel like doing is getting out of the house. But it’s essential to make the effort to take a shower, get dressed, take a walk, go to the gym, and socialize.” 

“I’m going home to do laundry.” I started ordering her to have something specific planned post-session. She began joining meet-ups (“Wow, ballroom dancing is kind of fun!”), visiting the botanical garden, baking cookies with her sister…

The more she ventured outside her four walls, the more her m.  

#5. Find Something to Look Forward To. This is a technique I routinely use as an anti-blues vaccination. (I’ve shared that I suffer from High Functioning Depression .) When I’m down I search for something to put on the calendar that makes me happy and excited. Indeed, this 2007 study showed that people get an emotional lift when they contemplate a future fun event , versus looking back on a fabulous activity from the past.

Fluted pumpkin seeds candidate for male contraceptives —Scientists.

Effect of pumpkin

Some components of the human diets are believed to be promising male contraceptive agents. Now, fluted pumpkin seeds may be the next candidate for male contraceptives.

In a new study, scientists evaluated the anti-fertility activity of fluted pumpkin seeds and found that it may selectively act on the sperm-producing cells, leading to low sperm count, oxidative damage and androgen insufficiency.

They said the reversibility of these effects to near-normal levels after the withdrawal of treatment justifies further consideration of fluted pumpkin seed-supplemented diet as an effective and readily reversible agent that meets the required criteria of a male contraceptive agent.

Potent and safe forms of contraception suitable for different couples and diverse cultures are crucial for family planning. Obviously, numerous fertility control efforts are aimed at women, and men have been asked to share in this responsibility.

The call for men to be equal partners with women in fertility regulation has been slow due to limited acceptable contraceptive options. Although efforts to develop effective plant-derived male contraceptive agents have been undertaken, the progress on it has been minimal.

For instance, daily use ofTripterygium wilfordii extract elicited antifertility properties in animals and men by distorting sperm development and lowering sperm count but its use was associated with adverse side effects.

Furthermore, gossypol obtained from cotton seed oil provoked antifertility effects in human and animal models through a reduction in sperm quality and an increase in sperm mortality, degeneration of the testis and disruption of sperm and male hormone production.

The irreversibility of low sperm count, slow contraceptive effectiveness, and other undesired side effects associated with some plant-derived contraceptive agents have heightened the focus of most laboratories on the search for potential plant-based male contraceptives that satisfy the criteria  of  an  effective  male-contraceptive agent.

Telfairia occidentalis, commonly called fluted pumpkin, is an important dietary item and deep-rooted part of herbal medicine, especially in the eastern part of Nigeria.

As a food, the fleshy kernel obtained from deshelled and boiled seeds of fluted pumpkin is consumed as snacks while its fermented form is used as a seasoning to flavour soup.

Its leaves have been reported to promote blood formation in the body, protect the liver, and for its therapeutic efficacy on induced benign prostatic enlargement.

For the study, healthy male Wistar rats of average body weight 135 g rats were given fluted pumpkin seed-supplemented diet at 2.5, 5 and 10 per cent for 60 days.

This 2019 study in the journal, Systems Biology in Reproductive Medicine. They were placed on observation for another 60 days after the withdrawal of treatment. The control animals received normal standard rat diet not supplemented with fluted pumpkin seeds.

The sperm quality variables, testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), oxidative status of the testis and other fertility parameters were determined to evaluate the anti-fertility activity of fluted pumpkin seeds.

Treatment of animals with fluted pumpkin seed-supplemented diet at five per cent and 10 per cent resulted in decreased serum and intra-testicular testosterone and FSH concentrations.

Furthermore, poor sperm motility, count, morphology and viability as well as a severe reduction in sperm production observed especially in the 10 per cent dietary fluted pumpkin seeds-treated animals reverted to nearly control values 60 days after withdrawal of treatment.

The researchers suggested that the observed low sperm count  could be due to selective action of fluted pumpkin seeds on developing germ cells.

They declared that the available evidence shows that fluted pumpkin seeds-supplemented diet promotes the arrest of sperm production in adult rat’s testes through multiple mechanisms including the direct killing of Sertoli cells.

According to them, “The reversal of the antifertility effects of fluted pumpkin seeds on testicular functions makes it a potential male contraceptive candidate. However, further studies to confirm this view are therefore warranted.”

Previously, researchers in the 2018 Toxicology Reports warned that Telfairia occidentalis (Ugu) aqueous leaves extract in high doses over a period of time is toxic to sperm production. They said a moderate use and consumption of the extract should only be encouraged.

Fluted pumpkin leaves caused a dose-dependent significant decrease in testosterone levels. At high doses, it distorted seminiferous tubules cytoarchitecture when compared to the control group. Thus, bringing to the fore that the production of quality sperms is highly dependent on the integrity of the testis.

9 True Stories of Guardian Angels Saving Lives

If you ever missed death by an inch, and you believe you had a little help, you may be one of many people with guardian angel stories. Even for nonbelievers, a brush with real guardian angels is enough to make one question their spirituality and thank God from above. That's why real guardian angel stories, such as the ones these people experienced, are so powerful. They make us stop and appreciate God and His messengers for what they can do. His angels are all powerful and can swoop in to help in the nick of time.

These stories share incredible recounts of real guardian angels coming out to save those that they looked out after. Each person was saved in a special and unique way that wouldn't have been accomplished without a little help and hand from above. Hopefully they inspire you to get more connected with your own guardian angel, so that you can receive their blessings too.

Mountain Lion Attack. 

Everyone in Kelsi Butt’s family was having a great time at their family reunion new Green Canyon Hot Springs, until out of nowhere a 93-pound male mountain lion appeared out of nowhere. Kelsi was walking with her two cousins when she encountered the beast, which then leapt out at her and wouldn’t let go. Kelsi’s mom didn’t know what to do other than to scream at the lion. It worked, and he let Kelsi go.

They rushed Kelsi to the hospital who miraculous survived. Kelsi’s family was quoted saying “We are so blessed she survived this. There are angels out there watching over us.” They believe that Kelsi’s guardian angel was there that day, and helped her survive the terrible attack.

Falling Tree. 

A retired woman in England couldn’t help but count her blessings as she watched as a huge tree came crashing down on to her car — the same car she’d been about to enter. Thanks to divine intervention, she narrowly escaped death. Joyce Woodward was about to head out for the day when the phone started ringing, taking her away from the car. The tree, out of nowhere, then plummeted leaving the car a mangled mess.

"It just came down by itself, but it does look rotten at the bottom,” Joyce said. "If I hadn't had a phone call to deal with I would have been in the car. I think I have a guardian angel."

Motorcycle Accident

After a nasty motorcycle accident left Kevin Diepenbrock at the bottom of a steep embankment, 105 feet below the highway, he thought for sure this was the end. No one could see him, no one could hear him and cell phone service was nonexistent in the remote area. He was stuck there for 30 hours, but then a guardian angel stepped in. A car stopped in the exact spot where Diepenbrock was laying, and he mustered up the strength to yell out for help one more time.

“You know, God definitely had his hand over him that day,” Kevin’s wife, Courtney, said, “and he had guardian angels looking out for him.”

Gas Station Kindness

A woman named Nicole ran into a family in desperate need of help after pulling up into a gas station. They were all shivering and cold, and the father was standing before the gas pump just crying, wearing clothes far too light for the extreme weather. She knew she had to do something, and became a true guardian angel for the family.

Nicole recounts that the man said he couldn't provide or his family, so she filled up his gas tank, telling him that "the Son of God is proving for you". She had clothes in her car she was planning to donate to Good Will, and instead handed them over to the man's wife and two daughters. This act of kindness was contagious, and two others at the gas station came over and gave the family gift cards and clothing items.

Highway Crash

At 3am Ying Shi realized her water had broke and it was time to head to the hospital with husband Hongwei Zhang to have their baby. In the excitement and nervousness of the situation, Hongwei took too big of a wide turn when getting off the interstate and crashed their car into a concrete barrier. Dayna Dumont was on her way home from her shift at the hospital when she saw the panicked dad standing in the road. Dumont helped deliver the baby and make sure mom and child were both safe until paramedics arrived.

"First of all, as Christians, we want to thank God for keeping us safe through all of this,” the couple said. “Next, we want to thank all of the people who gave us help. When this happened, we thought we were all alone. But very quickly, a woman stopped to help us and called 911. Then a man stopped to assist. They were both complete strangers but they stopped to help us anyway."

Chocking Victim. 

Louis Palacios had stopped to grab a quick lunch at Chick-fil-A, but he didn't expect it ot be a near-death experience. As he was chowing down on his chicken sandwich, he took a bite that was too big and got a piece lodged in his windpipe. He began panicking and couldn't breathe. He looked around franticly when he noticed a cop was sitting in the restaurant as well. He ran up to the officer who sprang into action immediately. Louis was quickly saved by the Heimlich maneuver after a few strong thrusts.

“I’m glad he was there at the time and I think things happen for a reason,” Louis said. “God had him there. God had us there for a reason for him to save me.”

Hospital Stay

An anonymous reader of

liveaboutaction.com wanted to share a story of their guardian angel experience. She had entered the hospital in 1994 with pain which she later got surgery over. Though the surgery was successful, she quickly began having an allergic reaction to the morphine she was given. Doctors rushed to help, but things were going from bad to worse.

The woman says that tried to get rest, but at 2:45am quickly woke up and felt a person standing next to her. She asked the girl, who was reading a Bible, what she was doing. The angel then said "I was sent here to make sure you'd be alright. You are going to be fine. Now you should get some rest and go back to sleep." The next morning, the reader says she was back to health. What an incredible visit.

Teenager Almost Robbed

Teenager Rebecca Soanes was walking home one afternoon when she noticed a strange man on a bike ride past her very slowly. She then noticed footsteps behind her, and turned around to see the man swinging a metal bar trying to hit her, saying he was going to rob her. Rebecca stood there shocked before attempting to run away from the crazed man. This is when God stepped in with a guardian angel.

As Rebecca ran she saw in the distance a Nun opening a gate and beckoning for the girl to come in. As soon as Rebecca was through the gate the nun held her and kept telling her she was safe now. Rebecca and her family call the nun a hero, but she knows God put her in the right place at the right time.

Flying Metal Pipe

Steve Montgomery was headed home from a painting job when something crazy happened. As he drove down the interstate, he noticed what looked like a pipe rolling around in the road. A tow truck drove over the pipe, sending it flying straight through the windshield of Steve's truck. It should have hit him in the face, but somehow missed him. He then couldn't see where he was driving, but somehow still managed to pull over to the side safely.

How to care of your skin this dry season.

We may wish for perfectly smooth, even skin, but many of us have uneven skin tones. This may take the form of redness, acne scars, age spots , or sun damage, which can cause blemishes or patches of color on the skin.

Uneven skin can be temporary or permanent, and may result from:

sun exposure

age

medications

hormones. 

Fortunately, no matter what the cause of your uneven skin, there are plenty of remedies to help you smooth out your complexion.

There are a number of different lifestyle changes you can make to improve the appearance of your skin.

Stay hydrated

Keeping your skin — and your body — hydrated will do wonders for your skin.

Drinking water hydrates your body from the inside out. Applying moisturizer helps soothe skin, resolving dryness and redness. Choose noncomedogenic moisturizers to prevent skin irritation and clogged pores.

Don’t forget to moisturize all of your skin, and not just your face. Using moisturizer on your hands can help prevent and soothe age spots over time.

Check out these 10 great moisturizers for dry skin.

Use sunscreen:

Use sunscreen regularly to prevent sun damage to your skin. Not only will this prevent immediate redness and peeling from sunburns, it’ll also prevent the formation of age spots.

Wear sunscreen every time you’ll be in the sun, and choose a facial moisturizer that has SPF for daily use. Not sure what SPF you should use? This guide can help.

Avoid certain foods and drinks:-

Certain foods can trigger flushed, uneven complexions. Some, like sugary snacks, may even speed up development of wrinkles and age spots. Avoiding them can help to preserve that even skin tone you’re looking for. Foods to avoid include:

alcohol, which can cause the blood vessels to dilate and lead to a flushed face

spicy foods, which can increase redness

foods high in refined sugars, which can cause wrinkles

dairy that may trigger various types of skin irritation, inclusive of acne

processed foods like chips

greasy foods. 

Natural ingredients for more even skin:

There are plenty of different natural remedies that you can use at home to even out skin tone. Many high-end beauty products contain these as active ingredients.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an antioxidant and can protect against free radical damage that can cause tissue damage, resulting in uneven skin tone. You can take supplements, or find vitamin C in foods like:

oranges

guava

bell peppers

kiwis

strawberries. 

Niacin

Niacin is a nutrient that’s essential for skin, hair, and nail health. It can help restore uneven skin tone, reduce wrinkles, and brighten your complexion. It does this by helping to improve skin hydration. Niacin can be found in foods like:

poultry

green peas

mushrooms

tuna. 

Lemon juice

Lemon juice can be an effective spot remover and skin lightener. Apply freshly squeezed lemon juice to the affected area at least twice a day until you see the results you’re looking for.

Witch hazel

Witch hazel is soothing, with anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce irritation and redness. You can apply witch hazel topically directly to the skin, or find it in products like lotions , toners, or

soaps.

Rosehip

Rosehip oil can help reduce discoloration from age spots or scarring, and actively prevent wrinkles. It’s thought that the antioxidants it contains fight free radical damage and simultaneously boost collagen production.

You can apply rosehip oil directly to the skin for maximum benefits.

Nigella sativa

Nigella sativa oil — also known as blackseed oil — can help treat skin infections thanks to its antibacterial and antifungal properties. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help even out the skin tone and make your skin softer and more supple.

One study even suggested that it was effective at decreasing vitiligo, with no serious side effects.

Kojic acid

Kojic acid is found in many over-the-counter (OTC) products thanks to its powerful antioxidant properties. It’s been found to be safe at a

concentration of 2 percent in cosmetic products. It’s often used as a skin lightening treatment.

Chemical peels

There are several different options for chemical peels. You can purchase some products directly from the manufacturer to use at home. These may include peels that contain low doses of glycolic acid and salicylic acid. Both can be done at home and in-office.

You should avoid these peels if you have sensitive skin or are currently using any type of acne product. This includes both topical products like retinol and oral medications like Accutane.

Here are more tips for doing a chemical peel at home.

 at home.

Glycolic acid

Glycolic acid can help t. eat acne , scars, sun spots, age spots, and wrinkles. It works by penetrating the top layers of the skin with a chemical solution and causes it to exfoliate, revealing healthier new skin underneath.

Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is an ingredient found in many OTC acne treatments. Slightly more mild than glycolic acid, it also exfoliates the outer layer of the skin to remove damaged skin cells. It can help treat:

acne

scarring

discoloration

Medical options

There are some treatment options that’ll only be available through a prescription from your healthcare provider. These can be more expensive, but can help treat stubborn problems that home remedies aren’t working on.

4 percent hydroquinone

This is a cream that should be applied to the affected area twice a day, or as your healthcare provider directs. It’s a skin bleaching cream that can help lighten dark spots on the skin, evening out the skin tone.

This cream may cause skin irritation or contact dermatitis . If you’re experiencing pain, redness, or sustained dryness, talk to your skin care professional about other treatment options.

Laser treatments are being used to help improve skin tones, with the ability to lighten scars or age and sun spots. Yellow lasers, for example, are used to flatten scars and reduce redness in them.

Sometimes, laser treatments may cause

hyperpigmentation , or a change in skin color. Because of this, you may want to try other treatment options first.

Clinical strength peels. 

Clinical strength peels come in three levels: light, medium, and deep. They work by penetrating your skin with a chemical solution, causing the skin to exfoliate and peel before revealing new and beautiful skin.

Light peels use more gentle acids, like salicylic acids, and can be done quickly. Medium peels may require sedatives or pain relievers, and deep peels require sedation as they use phenol.

The recovery time for deep peels can last up to 2 weeks, though you may have redness for several months. A light peel has a short recovery time of just several days.

Professional microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion can treat a number of skin conditions, including light scarring, sun damage, and discoloration. It works by helping to thicken the collagen in your skin while removing the thicker, damaged outer layer, creating a more youthful appearance.

There’s almost no down time for microdermabrasion. You may experience some redness, dryness, or peeling for several days following the procedure.

Makeup

If you need an immediate solution for uneven skin tone, there are plenty of great makeup options. These include:

foundations , which offer thick coverage that’s meant to be used on the whole face to even out skin tone

tinted moisturizers , which come in skin-toned tints and green tints . Green tints are ideal for those dealing with minor redness. These don’t offer the full coverage of foundation, but can help with minor unevenness.

Medical options , which are designed to cover blemishes or skin discolorations

If you want to even out your skin tone, there are a number of great remedies you can try at home, including lifestyle changes and natural ingredients.

In some cases, you’ll need to see a healthcare provider or skin care specialist. If you’re experiencing any blemishes or unevenness that may be caused by an underlying condition. 

15 Quotes About Life to Never Forget

When it feels like life wants to take you down, where do you turn? Some people turn up the music and tune out their surroundings. Others hit the gym and sweat out the stress. Maybe others enjoy reading quotes about life to help them remember that everyone is in the same boat. That’s what we’re bringing you today – some quotes about life that can hopefully keep you afloat when you feel like you’re drowning. We hope they bring some positive. 

1. “You can’t calm the storm, so stop trying. What you can do is calm yourself. The storm will pass.” –

2. “Getting knocked down in life is a given. Getting up and moving forward is a choice.” – 

3. The less you respond to negativity, the more peaceful your life becomes.

4. Take life day by day and be grateful for the little things. Don’t get stressed over what you can’t control.

5. We cannot start over, but we can create a new beginning.

6. You are allowed to be both a masterpiece and a work in progress, simultaneously.

7. “The hardest walk is walking alone, but it’s also the walk that makes you the strongest.” 

8. “Sometimes you need to take a break from everyone and spend time alone to experience, appreciate, and love yourself.” 

9. “People know your name, not your story. They’ve heard what you’ve done, but not what you’ve been through. So take their opinions of you with a grain of salt. In the end, it’s not what others think, it’s what you think about yourself that counts. Sometimes you have to do exactly what’s best for you and your life, not what’s best for everyone else.” 

10. “A negative mind will never give you a positive life.”

11. “I am in competition with no one. I run my own race. I have no desire to play the game of being better than anyone, in any way, shape or form. I just aim to improve, to be better than I was before. That’s me and I’m free.”

12. “Ships don’t sink because of the water around them; ships sink because of the water that gets in them. Don’t let what’s happening around you get inside you and weigh you down.”

13. “We’re so busy watching out for what’s just ahead of us that we don’t take time to enjoy where we are.” 

14. “Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.” 

15. The older I get, the more I realize no one has any idea what they are doing and everyone is just pretending.

FINAL THOUGHTS

No matter how resilient we are, all of us fall down at some point. Everyone uses something different to help them keep moving, but we hope these quotes about life brought some joy and motivation into your day. Always remember that you are closer to happiness than you think , if you just remain grateful for what you have and choose to keep a glass half-full perspective.

How To Get Glowing Skin Naturally In A Week With Pure Blend Miracle Beauty Box.

Even the laboratory that carried out the testing for me and the company that hired testers said about 328 of the testers are interested in buying the range… I’m so excited guys.

I wanted to keep this excitement to myself but I can no longer keep quiet about it.

I will launch this glowing skin pack this week but before then, I want to leave some quick tips with you.

How To Get Glowing Skin Naturally In A Week

If you want to really look beautiful and glow like a baby, do the following.

(1) Use Pure Blend Naturals Skincare Products . I can’t talk about other products but since I’m the

Chief formulator of these high performance skincare products , I can recommended them to you even backed by 30 days money back guarantee. Read Pure Blend Naturals Brand Story to learn more about my motivation for creating high performance all natural skincare products .

(2) Stop using synthetic skincare products, switch to truly natural skincare products formulated with Cosmeceuticals (High Performance Active Ingredients)

(3) Stop using soap or any Soapy products on your face. This is the number one cause of excessive dryness, acne and pimples breakout. They are formulated with strong surfactant that causes break out and strip off your skin of natural sebum. Embrace soap free face wash . We have one coming out this Beauty Box. Please wait for it, you will fall in love with your face again it is a promise.

(4) Embrace the healing powerful of facial cleansing oils... I can’t say this enough, do you use facial cleansing oil ? if you don’t here is a very big secret.

Facial Cleansing oils are best used at night followed by another miracle treatment that will come out with our glowing skin miracle beauty box . You will do this at least one hour or 30 minutes before bed.

(5) Stop using Activated face masks. I can’t say this enough, some of you are probably using them, they are formulated with harsh and deadly chemicals, stay away from them.

(6) Stop using skincare products that last more than 2 years. There is parabens and phthalates in most them and it is dangerous to your skin and general health. These deadly preservatives can make skincare products last for more than 5 years.

(7) Follow a skincare routine and stick to it.

(8) Stop using too many skincare products . Stick to one for at least 28 days before you switch because it takes that long for the skin to shed itself. The only exception is if your product contains cosmeceuticals (High Performance skin barrier breaking actives).

(9) Take your time when applying skincare products on your face. Allow one to dry before applying the other and don’t use too many products at a time as some skincare brands will recommend to you.

(10 ) Wash your hands before you touch your face or switch skincare products.

For example if you used a lotion on your body and leg, ensure you wash your hand and dry it before applying any other products on your skin.

Don’t use the same hand you used to apply hair cream on your face or body without washing it.

(11) Stop contaminating your skincare products.

Before using your skincare products, ensure you wash and dry your hands.

(12) Lastly, sleep at least 8 hours every day and eat balanced diet.

5 types of lecturers you'll meet in university

During my studies at Kenyatta University, I learned that lecturers are not the same. For instance, not all lecturers teach the same way. Actually, not all lecturers teach. 

This was experienced not only in my course but in all courses at the university. Most students at KU will agree that these are the major types of lecturers you will meet at the university:

1. Guardians

These lecturers care about each and every student in their class and the university at large. They keenly teach their students and even go to the extent of ensuring students attended all of their classes. Before the end of their classes, they dedicate a few minutes to give their students some piece of advice. 

2. 'Don’t care'

Such lecturers don’t give a hoot about students. They assume students know everything and their role is just to take them through some few areas of the curriculum. They don’t care whether you attend class or not. 

3. Ghosts

Ghost lecturers are those who are unpredictable. You don’t know whether they'll come to class or not. They can attend only one lecture just for a few minutes and disappear until the end of the semester. They only give notes and will appear whenever they feel like.

4. Braggarts

We all know who a braggart is right? Well, these are lecturers who will tell you how they have made it in life and the expensive property they own. They take up almost all the class time bragging about their achievements in life. 

5. Sadists

Such lecturers are out to cause harm to students. These are the types of lecturers that will always have students retaking their classes. They believe students need to go through tough times to make it in life. They want to ensure students pass through hardships in the university in the name of developing a thick skin.