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By on August 2, 2017 in Health & Medical, Wellness

Image by Pineapple Supply Co., pexels.com

When we plan on going to college, we think about so many things related to it, including education, campus, and independent life. However, not all students actually have time to focus on the things that may seem less significant – for example, health care.

It might seem irrelevant at the moment. You’re going to start a new life, you have to make new friends, study new courses, manage your finances, and so on. Many students find all of these things already overwhelming enough.

However, learning to take better care of your health is also important. It’s even easier to get sick in college than in high school, because there are so many people living there permanently. If you catch a cold, you’ll have to recover on your own and then struggle to catch up with your classes, so naturally, it’s better to avoid getting sick. But how exactly can students do this?

While it’s impossible to protect yourself from everything, it’s still possible to minimize the risks of getting ill. Here’s how you can do that.

1. Wash or sanitize your hands as often as possible.

As you know, every surface touched by many people is full of germs. You pick them up when touching these surfaces and they accumulate on your hands when you don’t wash them for a long time. If you touch your face with dirty hands, this might cause acne or some kind of a rash. If you don’t wash your hands before touching your food, this might lead to you catching an illness, ones that could range from minor to serious.

Always make sure you wash your hands before eating. And if you don’t have the time or opportunity to do so, try carrying sanitizer with you and use it as often as possible.

2. Clean your room.

Some students don’t put much effort into a clean dorm. However, if you want to take better care of your health, you shouldn’t settle with basic cleaning. Picking up clothes from the floor will make your room look cozier, but it won’t help you avoid germs.

Proper room cleaning means wiping all the surfaces, sweeping the floor, and vacuuming the carpets. Sure, this might be a bit time-consuming, but still, try to do this at least once every couple of weeks.

3. Avoid sick people.

This might not be an easy thing to do, especially if you care about your sick friend or partner. Visiting them with a bowl of hot soup is okay – as long as you don’t stay for long. Avoid sitting next to visibly ill course mates to avoid catching a virus from them. And if you do catch a cold, do your best to stay in your room so you don’t infect others.

4. Take a first-aid kit to college with you.

Sure, this might seem like an unnecessary thing to do, especially when you have so many other things to pack. However, this will help you avoid the unpleasant experience of walking to the nearest drugstore when you’re already feeling sick.

Make sure you have everything you need, from flu treatments to meds that treat stomach diseases. Stock up when you’re running low on certain medications so you’re ready for next time.

5. Be careful with food and drinks.

If you can’t remember how long a certain food has been in your fridge, it’s better to throw it away than to eat it. Be careful when going shopping, too: pay attention to expiration dates and try to remember that some products spoil more quickly than others. This will help you avoid unpleasant stomach diseases and food poisoning.

Also, pay attention to your drinks. When you go to parties, don’t share your cup with anyone. Otherwise, you’ll be sharing all the germs and viruses along with them.

6. Don’t drink if you have antibiotics prescribed to you.

Mixing alcohol with antibiotics will have two unpleasant effects on your body. First, alcohol makes the antibiotics less effective, so if you drink, there’s a big chance you’ll take longer to recover.

Second, taking antibiotics is harmful to your liver as it is. Alcohol affects the liver too, so when you drink, you’re basically doubling the negative effect, making it harder for your body to recover from it.

Avoid drinking until you finish the whole course of your prescription. This will help you get better quicker and minimize the negative impact on your body.

7. Try to build a healthy lifestyle.

College life is overwhelming for many. When you find new friends, go to parties, and try to combine being social with studying, things like sleep and nutrition can seem less significant.

However, a healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to prevent illnesses, feel more energized and increase productivity. Getting enough sleep helps you stress less; moreover, getting enough rest is one of the best ways to stay motivated to study. Eating properly ensures that your body gets enough nutrients. Working out makes you stronger, more energized and strengthens your immune system as well. So try building a healthier lifestyle or at least some healthier habits, as this will benefit your health greatly.

Taking care of your health is not easy. It requires paying attention to your surroundings and your lifestyle. However, doing so will help you prevent illnesses and feel more energized during college years. Good luck – stay healthy!

This article was contributed by Lori Wade.

By on April 6, 2017 in Wellness

Image by Hernan Sanchez, unsplash.com

It is never too late to make use of your bed because sleep has always been one of our necessities to maintain a healthy and wholesome lifestyle. Getting enough quality sleep at all times is vital. There are many health benefits you can get from having an adequate amount of sleep.

Your mood and feeling for the day depend on the number of hours of sleep you get at night. During sleep, our body is working to maintain our mental and physical health. Moreover, our body is repairing itself. Take note that a good sleep can also increase your brain function.

Experiencing repetitive sleep deficiency can harm you over time. It can increase your risk of developing health problems, and can also affect how well you react, work, learn, and think. Lastly, sleep deficiency can significantly affect your productivity.

Performance Maximization

Sleep affects not just your health but also your performance. Having the right amount of sleep can enhance your performance not just in work, but also in your day to day activities.

Sleep deficiency leads to functional limitation and reduced exercise performance. It may also affect your safety and security. For example, drivers who are drowsy have a higher risk of getting into car accidents.

Improves Immune Function

Our immune system is vital because it is the key to human health. It protects our bodies from substances that can cause sickness and diseases. Moreover, the immune system is sensitive to strenuous activities, a stressful lifestyle, change in diet and inadequacy of sleep.

A study found that people who slept less than 7 hours were more likely to develop a flu or cold than others who slept for a full 8 hours. Sleeping at least 8 hours may help lessen the risk of getting sick.

Increase In Productivity and Concentration

Sleep is important for reducing stress levels. It is also useful for increasing brain activity, thus, helping you finish your tasks quickly, effectively and efficiently. Without sleep, you tend to be unfocused and make more mistakes. It can also cause headaches at work and increase your stress level.

Takeaway

Most of us don’t put much importance on sleep because we don’t exactly understand the result of not having enough. Once you learn what happens to your body during sleep, you’ll understand its importance. Sleep is crucial to your physical, emotional and psychological health. At least 8 hours of sleep is critical!

This article was contributed by guest author Rachel Minahan.

By on March 10, 2017 in Wellness

Image by JOHN TOWNER, unsplash.com

Everybody who’s ever tried exercising knows that it’s hard to stick to a daily routine, no matter if it includes running, lifting weights or yoga. The solution to this problem is to change the way you think about sport. Once you make it a part of your day, just like brushing your teeth, things will fit into place.

Until you’re good at it, chances are you’ll find a number of excuses to avoid working out. So here are some tips to help you get started and keep going.

1. Be Realistic about Your Goals
First of all, don’t mistake resolutions with goals. For example, your resolution could be to lose 10 pounds, but your goal is to exercise half an hour a day.

Don’t come up with higher goals than you can accomplish. This will only set you up for disappointment when you realize that you can’t handle them. Start slow and keep things real. If you only have 15 minutes, start with that.

2. Put Yourself First
Keep in mind that although we may be tempted to help out a friend that has a paper coming up, skipping on your workout is not the way to go.

If your school schedule allows you to fit all you want to do, that’s perfect; if not, always prioritize your own needs before everyone else’s.

3. Find What You Like
If you’re not used to working out, begin by doing something that you either love or you’re good at. If playing football is a hobby, make it a part of your day; if it’s swimming, check out the campus pool.

Step by step, you’ll start incorporating more and more types of exercises, but for now, do what you like.

4. Establish a Dedicated Workout Area
Although living in a dorm doesn’t offer too much spare space, see if you can’t place a yoga mat and some weights somewhere. As long as your brain perceives the space as a sport-friendly environment, it will be easier to stick to exercising.

A cardio machine in your home won’t take up as much space as you think and the health benefits are definitely worth it!

5. Take Your Friends With You
The same colleagues you go for a drink with could soon become your workout buddies as well. Exercising with a friend will be more exciting. Besides, you’ll support each other as you try to meet your goals.

Surely you have a friend who’s trying to lose some weight or get in shape, so make a team!

6. Don’t Stress Your Body
If a certain activity is too much for your muscles, take a step back. It’s possible that your body isn’t in the best shape, so if you lift heavy weights, you might hurt yourself.

Begin with simple exercises, and once your body gets in shape, switch things up a little. Just remember to adjust gradually to the intensity of the workout.

7. Include More Movement
Getting in shape doesn’t happen only in the gym; it can also be done between classes or during breaks. Instead of taking the bus, walk. Walking will help your muscles develop and have a more defined shape, especially your calves.

Another option is to have an afternoon at a pool instead of going for a movie. You’ll burn calories and have a blast with your friends.

8. Download an App
Nowadays, there’s an app for everything, and some of them are so much fun that you’ll grow addicted to them. Running will get your blood pumping, and your lungs will get more oxygen; still, running from an army of zombies will certainly boost things up.

If you’d like to keep track of how much time you’ve exercised today, or how many calories you’ve lost, there’s an app for that as well.

9. Keep a Journal
We’re not saying that you should start obsessing over how much time you’ve spent in the gym, or if you’ve eaten the exact number of calories today, but a journal will help you out.

Writing down your daily activities will make it easier for you to realize how far you’ve come and thus, you’ll feel better about it.

10. Find a Group
Sports groups are the way to go if you lack the motivation to stick to an exercise routine. Knowing that there’s always someone waiting for you will make it harder to skip training.

Plus, you’ll make new friends, and surely some of their energy will give you that extra strength to run another mile.

Like I’ve said, take things slow and see how much free time you can “steal” from your busy schedule to work out. Meanwhile, don’t forget to eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables! These will keep you energized.

This article was contributed by guest author Evelyn Kail.

By on March 3, 2017 in Wellness

Why is it that we can remember our home address growing up, but we have trouble remembering what we ate for breakfast a week ago? Clearly our memory works in a very special, unique fashion. In a world full of distractions, it is sometimes hard to concentrate on the things that we need to know and remember. But, understanding the way our brains work is the key to improving things like studying for tests or learning new facts or figures. To help unlock the mystery of the brain, GetVoIP has put together 15 memory skills that will help supercharge your memory.

Image by Vincent Nero

This article was contributed by guest author Reuben Yonatan.

By on February 21, 2017 in Housing, Wellness

Image by Tran Mau Tri Tam, unsplash.com

When someone mentions air quality, we instantly think about the air outdoors that is filled with many different pollutants such as smog, smoke, dust etc. But one thing we don’t think about is the air inside our homes, where we spend the biggest part of our day.

What is in our air?
Did you know that the Earth constantly emits radon? It’s a radioactive chemical element which we inhale daily, one that especially contaminates indoor spaces. Other chemicals can also affect our cognitive functioning, which can be found in wall paints, wallpaper glue, furniture and flooring. These chemicals are called VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

Some of the biggest and most dangerous chemicals in the air are:
• Trichloroethylene – can be found in paints, paint removers, and inks. Short-term exposure can lead to excitement, dizziness and a headache, followed by nausea, vomiting, and even drowsiness.
• Formaldehyde – can be found in facial tissues, paper bags, napkins, and plywood paneling. Short-term exposure can lead to nose, mouth and throat irritation.
• Benzene is used for making plastics, dyes, rubber lubricants, and detergents, and it can be found in tobacco smoke, furniture wax, paint, and glue. Short-term exposure can lead to eye irritation, dizziness, headache and an increased heart rate.
• Ammonia – can be found in window cleaners, floor waxes, and smelling salts. Short-term exposure can lead to eye irritation, coughing, and sore throat.

Some research shows that people who spent time in optimized green building environments had almost double the cognitive performance scores compared to people who spent the same amount of time in a conventional office building. Functions like crisis response, strategy and information usage went through the strongest changes. I hope that now you understand the importance of air quality in the space you use for studying!

Without further ado, here is how to get rid of these evil pollutants and reach your full brain potential.

Ventilate
As I already mentioned, we are constantly inhaling a pretty dangerous radioactive element. The only way to exorcise it is to open your windows at least once a day for at least 20 minutes. Even if you live in the city, where the outdoor air is super polluted, always start your day by opening your windows. Of course, you should check your city’s Air Quality index to determine when the level of pollutants is at its lowest, and then open your windows. Trust me, you will be a lot more productive when the air in your study room isn’t so stuffy anymore.

Never forget to vacuum your space
You’ve probably heard how many toxins, dust, and bacteria can be found in your carpets and on your floors. Vacuuming is boring and probably not your favorite thing to do, but it is something that needs to be done at least once a week. Getting a vacuum cleaner with a water filter is the best way to trap dust, bacteria, and allergens.

Air purifiers
This is a must, especially if your space has a higher level of humidity and if you or a roommate is a smoker. Try to prevent smoking in the room – all that smoke is going to build up over time. Find the best air purifiers online and get yourself one that eliminates dust, and bacteria, as well as the smell of mold and smoke.

Plants
If you can’t afford an electronic air purifier, you can always turn to nature (unless you suffer from some kind of allergy). Improve the air quality by filling your room with house plants. They will absorb all the toxins and provide you with clean oxygen. The best air-filtering plants according to NASA are devil’s ivy, flamingo lily, lilyturf, English ivy, broadleaf lady palm, florist’s chrysanthemum, peace lily and red-edged dracaena.

Cleaning products detoxification
Avoid cleaners with fragrances and those with chlorine or ammonia. You can never get rid of every single bacteria, so don’t bother using such products and making your air even worse. Opt for natural non-toxic cleaning products and go green.

Once you feel the luxury of good quality air, you will never let yourself study, or spend time in a stuffy room again. Everything matters, especially the air.

This article was contributed by guest author Lana Hawkins.

By on January 20, 2017 in Wellness

Image provided by author

An average person sleeps for one-third of his or her life. Alas, some of us have to do with less than that. There are many factors that impede quality sleep, including stress, poor habits, shabby lifestyle, late night activities, etc. You could say that nowadays, wakening up bustling with energy is a rare commodity. Still, it is within our power to change this and rise and shine every morning. Here are some good habits and smart tricks that make a real difference.

Feel the rhythm
Sleep is the bedrock of a healthy lifestyle. It is also the requirement for peak productivity and academic performance. You often hear that the only thing you need to do is to go to bed earlier. Yet, things are bit more complicated than that. Some people are morning larks who greet the sun with a smile, and then there are night owls who like to study when the darkness falls.

Our energy levels go up and down during the day, and we all have different circadian rhythms. So, whatever others tell you, it is important to stay in tune with your own natural sleep-wake cycle. Sleeping the same number of hours at different times does make a difference – you need to achieve a consistent schedule, set your biological clock, and optimize your sleep quality.

On a tight schedule
For instance, sleeping in is not a good idea, even on weekends. Anything that deviates from the weekday schedule could cause jetlag-like symptoms. Whenever you want to make up for a late night, you should take a daytime nap. However, be careful with this because a nap can do more harm than good. In general, experts argue that 15-20 minutes does the trick just fine.

Naturally, you should go to bed when you feel tired. Tossing and turning never did anyone good, and a great way to sleep like a hog is to engage in physical activity during the day. On the other hand, sometimes the drowsiness needs to be kept at bay. This usually happens after dinner, when you have the urge to retreat to your bedroom, way before your regular bedtime.

Dreams and realities
As for the optimal time to wake up, it is usually eight hours after you drift away to the dreamland. Ideally, you should wake up without an alarm. If that rarely ever happens, you are probably not doing something right. Also, note that daily obligations and goings-on may prove to be a hurdle on the road to getting a good day’s sleep, like when you have loud roommates.

Furthermore, I hate to break it to you, but your drinking and eating habits also have an important role to play. Caffeine is often a culprit behind these problems, but many people do not know that it can cause trouble even twelve hours after consumption. Avoid alcohol and big meals before bed, as they may bring an upset stomach, heartburn, etc. Likewise, a lot of liquid is a disruptive influence because of frequent bathroom trips.

Finally, apart from habits and bedtime rituals, you can also take advantage of various tricks. First off, control your exposure to light. Our brain produces more of the melatonin hormone when it is light, making us more alert. This also implies that bright sunlight is a welcome guest in the morning. Purchasing a new bed or visiting an online mattress store can also be beneficial. The list of solutions does not end here, so do not despair in case the first steps do not prove to be fruitful.

A positive change
There is no other way to enhance your productivity and sleep quality than to build good habits. The chief task is to align sleeping habits with your circadian rhythm and figure out your natural sleep-wake dynamics. Assign a schedule and stick to it, which is the harder part. Only after making this effort, can you hope to feel refreshed and energized. Lifestyle adjustments are necessary to improve the quality and length of sleep, but also to climb up the academic and career ladder.

This article was contributed by guest author Lana Hawkins.

By on January 13, 2017 in Wellness

Facial oils have a unique selling point since they are well-reviewed and are widely publicized. Many facial oils have a particular slant that depends on the materials used and if they were made of organic ingredients.

A couple of facial oils are actually blended oils since they are more of a combination of carrier and essential oils. This blending makes them more virile and qualitative for long-lasting effects. There are other facial oils that are made of single carrier oils like coconut oil and argan oil, among others.

Notable Facts

  • Single oil-based facial products have been proven to be worth using for an improved skin glow and the likes of jojoba, evening primrose and argan, are well-reviewed.
  • Not all oils are alike and you need to find the one that suits you. Aside from the promotional stunts that such products as argan oil have amassed, others, like coconut oil or almond oil, have equal potency.
  • The heavier oils are known to have more fat content that exceeds others and you will see this in coconut oil. This feature gives the heavier oils a dense feel on your skin.
  • Grapeseed oil is another alternative to coconut oil and is proven to suit dry and scaly skin despite its lighter texture.

Top 5 Reasons to Use Facial Oils

1. Lightness
Facial oils made from an organic blend are usually light and do not have the density of vegetable oils. Although these facial oils are a blend of carrier oils and essential oils, they come up lighter and more potent.

You may never know why your skin is pale and perhaps, scaly, if you have never made use of an organic facial oil. Knowing that easy absorption of skin care products will lead to a healthier skin is enough motivation to use these facial oils.

Consistent use of organic facial oils will give you a youthful and even complexion. It is recommended that you apply them even after rubbing your normal moisturizer on your skin. When rubbed on your body, these oils are smoothly absorbed and they are light to touch.

2. Vitamin E Boost
Using facial oils that boast of an organic blend suffuse your skin with vitamin E that nourishes and hydrates your skin cells. The natural results that vitamin E brings are worth celebrating as what happens is a triggering of the cell development process.

The fighting off of free radicals is made possible by the antioxidants present in vitamin E and this heals skin damage. In addition, the wrinkling, fine lines and other signs of anti-aging are eliminated with regular use of these facial oils.

Another advantage that comes with vitamin supply is skin cell regeneration and growth to keep up that youthful skin glow. As the supply of the needed vitamins remains consistent, the healthier your skin will be.

3. Absence of Preservatives
The best essential oils are a world apart from normal skin lotions as they do not have ingredients like synthetic preservatives. Many skin products have chemical agents that can cause skin irritation such as unpleasant breakouts and redness.

Many people have skin reactions from time to time while others are exposed to damaging skin burns because of synthetic facial products. It is worthwhile to maintain a pattern of using organic facial oils so that the worries over synthetic effects can be avoided.

When you stick to organic facial oil, the risk of redness or any form of irritation is eliminated since they are free of the irritable chemicals.

4. Stop Skin Acne and Pimples
Organic facial oils are reputed for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. This makes it possible for them to rid your skin of clogged pores and scabs. When the buildup of oil on your skin surface is eliminated, then acne and pimples are prevented.

Moderate use of jojoba oil, for example, is known to reduce the level of oil production. Blended facial oils are now available in different packaging so that you can use them daily and repeatedly.

When using unblended oils, just remember to limit your usage and stay moderate in applying them.

5. Aromatherapy
Essential oils have a unique aroma that stems from their herbal ingredients. These are known to provide several advantages to users as mood-lifting and wellbeing agents. The aroma of these oils provides a calming effect that cannot be overlooked.

Myrrh oil, for example, is well-reviewed as an anti-microbial agent and stimulant. It aids blood flow and stimulates the nervous system. It is also proven to be antiseptic, so you can be sure your skin will be rid of infections.

Many essential oils have similar properties and you can be sure that apart from toning your skin, your senses will also be stimulated as well. The therapeutic effects are soothing enough to get your attention and loyalty.

10 Best Essential Oils For Flawless Skin

Created By Fixyourskin.com

This article was contributed by guest author Hannah George.

By on December 21, 2016 in Wellness

We know how complicated student life can be. With term papers, exams, essays and all that work you need to turn in before the semester ends, getting a good night’s sleep can be easily overlooked. Obesity, heart disease, stress and poor judgment are only a few of the many negative effects of sleep deprivation, which can affect your overall academic performance. However, with the right habits and by making a few tweaks to your daily routine, you can get the restorative sleep you need to become the top student in your class!

Follow these tips for restorative sleep by the Virginia Spine Institute, and get your academics back on track:

By on November 11, 2016 in Health & Medical, Wellness
Image by PublicDomainPictures, pixabay.com

Image by PublicDomainPictures, pixabay.com

ADHD is one of the most controversial mental health topics nowadays. More and more people are diagnosed with this condition and treatment varies tremendously from case to case. Some ADHD patients get diagnosed at an early age and start medication. However, many still manifest some of the symptoms as adults, and can cause several social problems. If you are a student, don’t let the disorder trouble this exciting period of your life. Here are some recommendations to help you deal with ADHD in class.

Find Out More About This Condition
No matter what kind of ailment you suffer from, treatment starts with a full understanding of what is happening to you. So, start learning more about your condition.

ADHD is one of those interesting psychology facts people can’t stop arguing about. It is a complex matter that raises many questions and doubts for doctors and patients alike. ADHS or the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a chronic condition the manifests itself by:
• Attention loss
• Concentration problems
• Impulsiveness
• Mood swings
• Poor memory
• Anxious behavior
• Motivation loss

Get the Proper Diagnosis and Medication
The symptoms should not scare you. You might have ADHD, but it doesn’t mean you’ll manifest all the symptoms at once or to their full extent. Besides, many things can improve a student’s mental health. The first thing you have to do is get a proper diagnosis from a trustworthy specialist. He or she will then be able to indicate the most suitable treatment for your condition.

There are several types of drugs like Concerta, Ritalin or Adderall that can improve your focus and help balance your emotions. Natural supplements containing omega 3 and omega 6 can also boost the brain’s capacities like memory formation or attention. Whatever treatment you opt for, make sure you thoroughly follow your doctor’s prescription.

Behavior Therapy
This is extremely beneficial especially for young adults who are willing and ready to adapt to a social environment. Behavior therapy can enhance your daily relationship with teachers and colleagues. It can cast away the fears related to your condition and mitigate the emotional ADHD symptoms. This therapy aims to help patients manage the way they act and change unhealthy behaviors related to this condition.

A specialist can help you strengthen your social skills and advise on how to behave in day to day situations. Cognitive behavior therapy is organized both in individual and group sessions.

Diet
A balanced diet is recommended to everyone out there, but it is increasingly important to stick to it if you have been diagnosed with ADHD. Try to eat as healthy as you can. Include fresh fruit, vegetables, and lean meat in your diet. Fiber and protein will boost your mood and brain capabilities. Fish is very useful because it contains healthy fatty acids. Water intake should be regular because it hydrates the entire body and enhances concentration. A balanced diet will help you perform better during class and put you in the right mood for studying.

There are also elements you should try to limit. Regarding sugar and caffeine, moderate consumption is recommended because they increase restlessness.

Train Your Mind and Body

Physical Training
Many ADHD patients find it easier to deal with this condition if they practice a sport on a regular basis. Physical exercises help you get rid of anxiety, balance your hormones, regulate your appetite and stay fit. There is no reason why an ADHD patient should not practice a sport, provided that their physical condition allows him or her to do it. Besides, there are many sports you can take up as extracurricular activities. Dance, jogging or swimming will help you relax and give you the chance to socialize with your colleagues outside of classes.

Mental Training
Train your brain the same way you do with your body. Mental challenges like puzzles, quizzes, or crosswords will keep your brain in shape. They will also help you develop the concentration and problem-solving skills that are important while you are a student. Games are fun and can enhance your creativity. Moreover, you could practice together with friends and, again, work on your interpersonal skills while you’re at it.

Improve Your Social Skills

In Class
One of the most common problems caused by ADHD is the impairment of social interactions. People suffering from this disorder find it difficult to commit to strong relationships. Therefore, they often tend to isolate themselves. This only worsens your social life and leads to self-esteem problems. No matter how hard it is, make an effort and go out there. Try to integrate yourself into the picture. Start with small talk and gradually get close to your classmates. Don’t be afraid to open up and ask for help.

After Classes
Support groups are a great idea for students who need a moral boost. Here you can meet other people who struggle with the same problems as yours. This is your chance to talk about your problem with people who fully understand you, under professional supervision. You can share best and worst practices and learn from each other’s experience. Maybe you’ll also make new friends in this intimate environment.

Try to Relax
The idea of relaxation seems utopic in this context, but it is by no means impossible. People with ADHD can learn how to relax. There are common methods that work very well in this case, and one of them is meditation. This is something you won’t master in several months. It takes years of practice to get the full benefits, so start with simple methods like breathing techniques and posture. Thirty minutes of meditation a day will do wonders for your mental balance. It is definitely worth trying.

This disorder should not be treated like other chronic diseases that impede you from a normal life. You can do everything a healthy person does. Keep this in mind and start working on your problems. It’s up to you to control ADHD.

This article was contributed by guest author Mike from TGC Media.

By on July 20, 2016 in Wellness
Image from depositphotos.com

Image from depositphotos.com

Student life stressing you out? Here’s a pro tip: become careless. Follow the letters of the Jedi code: don’t listen to emotions, listen to peace. Remember that passion exists only if you let it overcome you. Serenity is the only way towards true carelessness.

A true careless attitude aims to make you oblivious to the happenings around you. In a true existentialist scenario when everything has gone haywire, you must stay a stone in the middle of an ocean of troubles. Yet keeping calm when your daily routine is raided by problems is easier said than done. One other consequence would be the possibility of becoming heartless (something not really desirable).

Fear not, though, for we are here to present you with the top tips on how to nurture a true careless attitude. Follow the advice below and you won’t be shaken by your emotions again:

1. Learn to Say No
You may think that this is unimportant or that it may make you become heartless. None of that is true. Saying no means saying yes to the things you really want. Saying no means staying focused. On track. Goal-oriented. Set on success with the power and the right attitude to have you going the distance every time it’s needed. If you don’t learn to say no, you’ll end up trying to help everyone and forget about yourself.

Want more reasons to say no? Read this comprehensive analysis on how the art of refusing will give you your life back in more ways than one.

2. Accept Your Weaknesses
Nobody’s perfect, am I right? Except for aerospace engineers, of course.

The moment you expect yourself to achieve perfection, your productivity will decrease. Instead of perfect, aim for good. Instead of rushing and overworking to make everything the best thing ever, try a level-headed approach. If you lower how much you care about something, you will not be disappointed if you do less than perfection.

3. Understand How You Function
Everyone has a specific rhythm in which he or she works best. Get to know your rhythm. A person nurturing a careless attitude will automatically work according to their specific cycle. Any alteration to that workflow and you may end up tired, unhappy, and sick of your job. Every now and then it’s OK to even ask for a time off to recharge your batteries, so don’t be afraid to if your body prompts you to.

4. Don’t Change for Others
Your way of working doesn’t need to change. Once you tell yourself that, you will be able to overpass any constraints. Tell your peers that your rhythm works best for you and argue your decision to stick to it. If you make a successful enough plea, the people around you will begin to adapt to your way of working and managing deadlines.

5. Stop Seeking Validation
Rewards come and go. Thanks are often absent. Reproaches can sting. However, the validation game is just another one of those tricks that your mind likes to play on you. Once you receive positive feedback, you will want more, like a drug.

Don’t expect to be thanked for what you do. Always put reproaches behind you – keep in mind what you’ve done wrong and do better next time. No ifs and no buts. Being truly careless means having the power to weather the most terrible of storms with a straight face.

Last but not least, reward-based work also has many downsides – so avoid yearning for them and you’ll be all the more surprised when they do arrive.

6. See the Flaws in Others
Everyone has flaws. There is a certain perfection in a world where flaws meet qualities and complete each other like pieces of this grand puzzle that is the universe. Try to notice the harmony that arises from this. Try to perceive your idiosyncrasies and part of what makes you human and therefore beautiful. Don’t try to stress them nor should you take pride in them. Treat them as they are and if possible, improve upon bad habits.

All in all, remember that self-improvement is something necessary and logical at the same time. It’s what we all do to escape into our better selves. Therefore, developing a careless attitude is the best way to have peace of mind in any and all situations that one may encounter in life.

This article was contributed by guest author Amanda Wilks.