Tag Archives: New World

The Psychology of Our New World: How COVID-19 Has Changed Us Immune System, Perception, and More

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the world in more ways than we can imagine. It has impacted every aspect of our lives, from how we work to how we socialize, and even how our bodies and minds respond to the environment around us. In this blog post, we will explore the psychological impacts of this global health crisis, looking at how our immune systems, perception, and mental health have been altered by the pandemic. We will also discuss the potential long-term effects of these changes on our future mental and physical well-being.

Our Immune System
As the world adjusts to a new way of life due to the COVID-19 pandemic, one area that is receiving a lot of attention is how it has changed our immune system. It is well known that the virus has a profound effect on our bodies and can cause severe illness in many cases. But the effects may go even deeper than we originally thought.
Recent studies have shown that the virus can have an impact on our immune system, potentially weakening it and making us more susceptible to other infections. Our bodies’ natural defenses are not as strong as they once were, and this could have far reaching consequences. It also may be more difficult to fight off certain infections, including those related to colds, influenza, and other respiratory illnesses.
In addition, some researchers believe that the virus could potentially alter the way our immune system works and make us more vulnerable to autoimmune diseases such as arthritis and lupus. This could mean an increased risk of developing these conditions and difficulty in treating them.
These changes to our immune system could have a drastic effect on our lives for years to come. It is essential that we take all necessary precautions to protect ourselves from the virus and also keep our immune system functioning at its best. Taking steps such as washing your hands regularly, wearing a mask, and avoiding crowds will help ensure that you remain healthy and reduce your risk of contracting any infection or disease. If you do contract a virus, rest and drink plenty of fluids to aid in recovery. Keep up with vaccinations as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist so that if a serious illness does break out, your body is ready to fight back!

Our Perception
The pandemic has had a huge impact on our daily lives and, with it, our perception of the world around us. It’s changed how we view everything from the way we interact with people to our sense of safety and security.
In terms of our psychology, we’ve experienced a range of different emotions and responses. We’ve gone through a roller coaster of fear, anxiety, anger, and sadness. We’ve felt overwhelmed, powerless, and helpless. We’ve also gone through periods of hope and joy.
It’s natural to be affected by all of these feelings. But it’s important to remember that they don’t define who we are or dictate how we should live our lives.
The key to getting through this tough time is to focus on what we can control. Instead of dwelling on the things that are out of our hands, try to stay focused on the present moment and look for ways to make the most of it.
It’s also important to take care of ourselves mentally and physically during this time. We can do things like eat healthy, exercise, get plenty of rest, and practice mindfulness. This will help us stay balanced and grounded in the midst of all the uncertainty.
By taking care of ourselves, we can better cope with the changes that COVID-19 has brought into our lives. It may feel like the world has changed forever, but remember that life may not return to normal anytime soon- but we will be stronger for having gone through it. We have overcome the changes and pushed through, that’s all we can do. It’s tough at times, reach out for help if needed, Try new projects to change routine, learn a new hobby, or just take time for yourself.

Mental Fog
The novel coronavirus pandemic has completely changed the way we view the world and our place in it. While the physical ramifications of the virus have been well-documented, it is important to consider its psychological effects as well. One of the most pronounced psychological phenomena to arise from the pandemic has been mental fog.
In order to combat this mental fog, it is important to take steps to reduce your overall stress levels. Taking regular breaks and getting enough sleep are essential in allowing your mind and body to recover from the stress of the pandemic. Additionally, engaging in activities that allow you to relax and destress, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time in nature, can help you regain clarity and focus. Finally, it is important to remain connected with your friends and family during this time, as social support is a crucial component in mental well-being.
By taking the time to manage your stress levels, you can help mitigate the mental fog that comes with living through this pandemic. Doing so can help you regain focus and clarity, and ultimately lead to a more positive outlook for our new world. Before COVID-19 emerged, people often reached out to their friends and families when they needed help managing their stress levels. However, due to restrictions on close contact imposed by health officials as a measure against the spread of the virus, many people struggle with finding ways to cope with this devastating pandemic alone. The effects of Covid-19 are long-term. Sometimes you may find yourself feeling depressed and just blah. It’s all around us, needless to say, feeling unsure, confused, or just tired is a new normal. If you feel like your mental health is being compromised by how the outbreak has affected your life, please reach out for support. Mental fog is something I have recently discovered for myself. Thinking, focusing, and balancing life can be trying at time. Forgetting to do important things or simple task left undone. It’s very common to not notice the long-term effects of Covid-19 . As we over look the little things, since it’s a mental fog – forgetfulness. 😁

It not easy trying to maintain a positive outlook for days ahead. Our mental health has been tested to the fullest. I could be wrong, but as time passes, more people are isolating once again. Seemingly, isolation is the new “comfort zone”. As we try to make sense of all this inflation, viruses, and new world – take time to prioritize your own well being. Take care of your physical and mental health everyday.

Until our beautiful minds meet again, be safe out there. Many blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Minds Matter -Della 💞🦋

🌳Behavior Triggered by Others Actions

When you see your behavior as a reaction to other people’s actions, it can help you handle the situation differently. This is because it shifts your focus away from trying to control their behavior, which you have no power over. Instead, take time to think about what they might be doing with their behavior and what this means for you.

It’s important to remember that even though we may not always have control over another person’s actions, we do always have control over our own responses and behaviors. If someone else makes a decision that affects us negatively (for example by leaving us without adequate notice), then we need to let go of any expectations that they should behave differently in the future so that we don’t continue feeling upset about it or blaming them for how we feel now or in the future.

Emotions

The next area of human behavior we examine is emotions. Emotions are the result of our thinking and experiences, but they can also be incredibly helpful in guiding us to make decisions that benefit us or others.

Emotions are a part of human behavior and can be positive or negative. They can help us make better decisions by helping us to see things from a different perspective and allow ourselves room for change as well as growth.

Thoughts, beliefs and assumptions

Your thoughts, beliefs and assumptions are the foundation for your behavior. You will want to be able to recognize when they are not helpful and change them so that you can be more effective in managing your behavior.

Some examples of a thought: “I’m going to lose my job.”

A belief: “If I get fired again it’s because I’m not good enough.”

An assumption: If I do not have a job then my family will suffer financially.

When we say something like “I am going to lose my job” we make an assumption based on what we think someone else might say if they were aware of our thoughts. We create this story about ourselves that often makes us feel powerless and out of control over the situation – which can lead us into feelings such as frustration or anger towards others (i.e., blaming).

Triggers behind your actions

Triggers are the reason behind your actions. They can be positive or negative.

The positive triggers are what pushes you to do things, such as when a friend asks you to go out to eat and you feel excited about it. The negative triggers are what makes you want to avoid doing things, such as when someone says they don’t want to hang out with you and it makes you feel sad or angry.

When identifying your triggers, ask yourself: “What led me here?” or “What was going through my mind at that time?” This will help determine what is causing these feelings so they can then be changed!

How can I change my trigger? If something happens that causes negative emotions in me (like feeling sad), maybe try talking about it with someone I trust instead of avoiding them like I usually do! That way we both get some support from the other person instead of just one person feeling bad about themselves because their plans have been cancelled due to their own behavior patterns!”

Commitment

Commitment is the spark that lights the fire of change. The more a person is committed to an outcome, the more likely he or she will achieve it. If you want to make significant changes in your life, you need to make a significant commitment along with it.

You can’t expect one small leap forward after another to have any lasting impact on your life; however, if you are going big or going home (or both), these small leaps will add up over time and transform into something much bigger than they seem at first glance.

This applies not only to behavioral changes but also new habits as well—if you want your new habit of flossing every night at bedtime become ingrained in your routine (and ultimately part of who you are), then it’s time for some serious commitment action!

Commitments come in all sizes: some are smaller commitments like “I’m going go running tomorrow morning,” while others are larger commitments such as “I will lose 20 pounds by my 30th birthday.”

To change your behavior you must first understand it better.

The first step to changing your behavior is to understand it better. You must understand that behavior is a response to a trigger. It is not something that happens randomly or without reason, but rather it occurs because of some sort of stimulus in your environment or life. The second thing you must know before changing your behavior is that all positive changes start with motivation and commitment. If you are not willing to commit yourself fully and completely then nothing will ever change in any way shape or form!

Behavior and action, have thought us the triggers are caused by emotions, actions, and behavior. To make change its important to understand the reason of behavior. The more we understand the cause of behavior, known as the triggers, we are able to respond differently. Emotions can result to behaviors to others actions. Knowing how to stop poor behavior will reduce emotional response. Be committed to understanding triggers, so you can manage behavior and actions. Allowing the natural abilities to help reduce unpredictable actions..

Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there, blessings and much love. Remember, Everyday Mind’s Matter 🦋

Journaling Daily 🌺

Paper, Pen, & Positive Results

Today we are going to talk about the benefits of daily journaling that will change your life so you can improve yourself. Keeping a daily diary can help you become more self-aware, which will help you increase your knowledge of what is right for you. One aspect of journaling that makes it so effective is that journaling can become a key habit to help you focus your energy and attention on where it will be most effective. Of course, every time you can keep an effective diary, that time is well spent, but the best practice is to keep a regular daily diary.    

It’s often helpful if you keep a journal regularly, even if you don’t have to do it every day. You can certainly learn more about yourself by looking back at what you do every day, but journaling is often more than just recording everyday events. As mentioned, journaling can help you reflect on yourself, sort out your feelings, and gain a deeper understanding of the various events that occur in your daily life. Let’s look at the importance of journaling and how to incorporate this powerful habit into your daily routine.    

You can use a diary to write down affirmations that will help you reach your goals or keep track of memories so you can reflect on how your life is going. Journaling allows us to put our emotions on paper, separate them from ourselves, organize our thoughts, our days, our intentions. Writing about feelings, environment, and activities without judgment can help you be more present in everyday life. Simply writing about your feelings and frustrations will help you focus on what is really going on in your life and mind so you can find solutions to your problems.  Most importantly, journaling can help problem solve situations. Fixing relationships or issues by understanding the problem. Then a solution can be organized and resolved.  You are more aware of the thoughts and feelings now they are written out.Most importantly, journaling can help problem solve situations.  Fixing relationships or issues by understanding the problem. Then a solution can be organized and resolved.  You are more aware of the thoughts and feelings now they are written out.

For example, talking about specific relationship problems can help you better understand your emotional needs and how to meet them. Writing can help you tune into the situation and “feel” if something is wrong with the other person or situation. A journal is also a useful tool to help you make emotionally clouded decisions and know when it’s time to make changes because you’ve been writing the same thing day in and day out for weeks at a time. Creating a writing routine and scheduling time for journaling can help keep you on track even on days when you don’t feel inspired.    

One of the best things you can do to set yourself up for success when you figure out how to start a daily diary (or any other habit) is to make it as accessible as possible. If you want to make it a habit, choose a time of day for journaling and make it a non-negotiable in your life. 

When we have a daily journaling routine, we reap the many benefits of journaling, such as increased self-esteem, self-awareness, awareness, and positivity, every single day. A diary should not be just the act of writing paper on paper and recording the mundane events of your day. For example, incorporating a 20-minute diary into your nightly routine can help you relieve heavy feelings of stress before bed.  

Importance of journaling has so many benefits. Time is only your favor to journal in habit. Once routine takes place, in no time you can better understand yourself. Having opportunity to feel, and acknowledge your needs and desires are rewarding.

Until next, keep that pen moving, enjoy the writing experience- of journaling. Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there, blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter.🌸👣

🌱How Schizophrenia is misrepresented in TV and film — and how we can do better

Over the years or even current mental health has lingered with much stigma. Reality, helping to encourage recovery or treatment should be priority, yet create entertainment is the wrong way. TV has shook the self- imagine and twisted the reality for entertainment purpose. Here you will learn we can do better with misrepresentation of mental health.

Misrepresented by TV

From Yellowjackets to Criminal Minds, the schizophrenic charaQcters we see onscreen are usually supernatural villains, criminals, or inspirational fodder.Courtney Eaton as Lottie in Yellowjackets. (Showtime)

We’ve all seen popular movies and TV shows that have used schizophrenia to drive a story forward. But how often do we stop to consider what those representations actually mean? How do they portray the experience of actually living with schizophrenia, and how do the stereotypes that these representations lean on come back around to harm mad and disabled people?

A 2021 GLAAD report found that disabled characters made up only 2.8 per cent of all series regular characters in the 2021-22 television season in the U.S. That’s roughly 22 characters out of 775 total examined. When looking at that figure, especially considering that 22 per cent of Canadians and 26 per cent of Americans live with visible and invisible disabilities, people with disabilities are shockingly underrepresented onscreen.

What’s even worse is that the few representations of disability and madness that we do see are wrapped up in stereotypes which impact how we view mad and disabled people around us. Schizophrenia is one of the conditions that the general public views most negatively, according to a 2014 study published in the journal Psychiatry Research. The prevalence of stereotypes also creates internalized stigma that impacts the self-image of disabled people. Jake Gyllenhaal as Donnie Darko, Jena Malone as Gretchen Ross, and James Duval as Frank in Donnie Darko. (Newmarket Films)

A commonly observed trope in TV and movies represents schizophrenia as criminal and violent. (Think Norman Bates in Psycho, Mr. Cleg in Spider, or any of the dozens of characters from shows like Criminal Minds’ endless carousels of violent depictions of madness and neurodiversity.) Horror, thrillers, and true crime often frame mad people as villains whose motivations are blamed on conditions like schizophrenia, which perpetuates the idea that people who have those conditions are a danger to others. 

Another common representation of schizophrenia makes the condition out to be supernatural or magical, like in the show Yellowjackets or the film Donnie Darko. When schizophrenia is placed in the supernatural or fantasy realms, it diminishes the real-life experience of living with schizophrenia and suggests that it is beyond humanity or our understanding. By aligning schizophrenia with demonic entities and malicious spirits, these supernatural representations similarly perpetuate the idea of schizophrenic people as “other,” which can ostracize them and negatively impact their self-perception.

Not every trope makes people with schizophrenia look like villains, but even the more well-intentioned attempts can be harmful in their own way. Take, for instance, the portrayal of the “supercrip” as seen in A Beautiful Mind, The Soloist, or the show Legion. “Supercrip” is a term used by the disabled community to refer to stories where people “overcome” their disability. Although these depictions are sometimes created to challenge the perceptions of what mad and disabled people can and can’t do, as explained by Stella Young, they “objectify disabled people for the benefit of nondisabled people.”

This trope also suggests madness and disability exist entirely within a person instead of engaging with the oppressive social, legal, and medical conditions that create barriers for mad and disabled people. “Supercrip” stories can act as a defense mechanism for the status quo — because if one mad or disabled person could beat the odds and live happily in our current society, ostensibly, all mad and disabled people should have it within themselves to do the same. Criminal and violent representation in Criminal Minds Joe Adler as Danny Lee Stokes, a schizophrenic serial killer, in Criminal Minds. (CBS)

A 2012 study found that, in 41 movies studied, a majority of schizophrenic characters displayed violent behaviour toward others and themselves, and almost a third of those characters displayed homicidal tendencies. The same study also found that causation is hardly discussed in those films.

Shows like Criminal Minds, which follow a procedural format where a new weekly suspect is pursued by federal officers and caught by the end of the episode, are chock full of exaggerated depictions of schizophrenia. The formulaic approach of Criminal Minds made the show easy to watch, but to keep viewers from getting bored, it had to continue to shock them with more and more gruesome stories. Crimes committed by supposedly schizophrenic people ranged from cannibalism to necrophilia.

Even if the viewer knows to take these stories with a grain of salt, the depiction of these horrific crimes and lack of exploration into a character’s motives — coupled with zero follow-up on their fates after they are caught (or often, killed) — reinforced an “us vs. them” mentality that creates a fearsome idea of schizophrenia. This is bolstered by storylines that continuously ask the viewer to sympathize with the neurotypical, non-disabled police, who are billed as heroes for tracking down and capturing the suspects. 

Mad and disabled people are actually more likely to be victims of violence rather than the perpetrators of it. And in a study in which 46 mad people were interviewed about the stigma they have experienced, people with schizophrenia reported more verbal and physical abuse than any other group in the study.

The show’s less overtly negative representations are few and far in between. Spencer Reid’s mother Diana, one of the rare recurring characters with schizophrenia, is shown to have a loving relationship with her son. But even though the show sympathizes with her, it also makes her out to be one of the “good ones” against a backdrop of countless violent mad characters; ultimately, whatever positive representation Diana provides is completely overshadowed by an overrepresentation of schizophrenic killers.Supernatural representation in Yellowjackets Courtney Eaton as Lottie in Yellowjackets. (Showtime)

Another common stereotype in TV and movies suggests that schizophrenia is the result of some kind of supernatural force. This trope depicts schizophrenia as something that possesses a person and forces them to do things that they have no control over, often harming others in the process.

Showtime’s critically acclaimed 2021 psychological drama Yellowjackets depicts a character named Lottie who experiences hallucinations after running out of her medication for an unnamed condition. While the show was praised for its representation of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it slips into problematic territory with the way Lottie transforms from a sweet background character to becoming possessed, experiencing premonitions and visions of death, and calling on the girls around her to hurt one of their own. Since this transformation happens after Lottie runs out of her medication, the implication is that she is this way when untreated, which reduces a complex condition to a clichéd representation. Yet again, a mad character becomes a villain or someone to be feared, and the only explanation for their motivation is their madness. 

With just one season out so far, the show is still well-positioned to turn this representation on its head and provide useful commentary about the way Lottie was medicalized at a young age for her apparently atypical behaviour. But if it continues along the same path, Yellowjackets will become another representation of schizophrenia that dehumanizes mad people and causes the viewer to fear them.”Supercrip” representation in A Beautiful Mind Russell Crowe as John Nash in A Beautiful Mind. (Universal Pictures)

“Supercrip” stories rely on narratives of inspiration and overcoming adversity. One of the most well-known depictions of schizophrenia is A Beautiful Mind, the 2001 film starring Russell Crowe. A Beautiful Mind won four of the eight Academy Awards it was nominated for, including Best Picture

and is based on the life of mathematician John Nash as told through Sylvia Nasar’s unauthorized biography of him. Throughout the film, Nash experiences hallucinations that lead him to be forcibly institutionalized; his condition also inadvertently causes him to put his infant son in danger. But Nash is later able to overcome his hallucinations by sheer willpower and return to his work, eventually going on to win the Nobel Prize. 

Some have noted that schizophrenia is generally well-represented in A Beautiful Mind, and the viewer is certainly meant to sympathize with John Nash instead of seeing him as a violent person or a criminal. Nash’s ability to exercise control over his life and learn to live with schizophrenia, especially with the support of his loved ones, can be an empowering thing for mad people to see on screen. But nevertheless, this type of story paints madness and disabilities as individual “problems” that need to be fixed and overcome in order to live “normally.”How can we represent schizophrenia more thoughtfully? Matthew Gray Gubler as Spencer Reid and Jane Lynch as Diana Reid in Criminal Minds. (CBS)

As with so many movies and TV shows about marginalized people, stories about people with schizophrenia are rarely told with mad people in control of the narrative, and the actors who play them are not part of mad and/or disabled communities. While neurotypical and non-disabled actors take home awards and accolades for their portrayals of madness and disability, real mad and disabled people feel the repercussions of these stereotypical depictions reverberating in their everyday lives. 

Mad and disabled people deserve to see themselves represented wholly, not as punchlines, lazy plot points, or inspirational fodder for the benefit of the able-bodied. Our experiences are all unique and multi-faceted, yet the stories told about us are too often boiled down to stereotypes instead of embracing neurodivergence, madness, and disabilities. 

Increasing or improving representation of schizophrenia in the media will not immediately change societally-rooted ableist attitudes. But empathetic and informed storytelling can help to counteract and correct the misinformation that is shared through TV and movies. With stories about schizophrenia still so deeply entrenched in stereotypes that impact the real-life treatment of mad people and the inequities they face, the need to tell better stories isn’t just critical — it could be life-saving.

Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there with blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter 💕😇

Forget Me Not –Dementia💖

Forget Me Not

Do you feel like there are times in your life where you can’t remember where you put your keys? It’s okay. We all have those times. Today, this post will help you understand Dementia. Digging further into Dementia to acknowledge crucial symptoms that’s more than forgetfulness.

If you are experiencing forgetfulness, finding that your brain is always in a fog, unable to focus on things with clarity, and you feel like the world is moving too fast for you; you may be suffering from dementia.

Forgetfulness is a normal part of ageing. However, when it becomes more severe, is persistent and interferes with day-to-day life, it can be an early sign of dementia.

Memory loss and confusion are some of the most common symptoms of dementia, however there are other changes in thinking, behaviour, movement and mood that are noticeable too.

Dementia is a loss of memory and other mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life. It is a growing global health crisis that if left unchecked will reach epidemic proportions by 2050. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60-80% of cases of dementia, but there are many other forms, including vascular dementia, which is caused by an interruption in blood supply to the brain.

In Time Strong emotional memories of past people may resurface as delusions and hallucinations in dementia. People with dementia may find it difficult to separate past experiences from current reality and may relive these events to some extent. Delusions in dementia can be paranoid; for example, people with dementia may believe that someone is stealing from them. They may believe their spouse is cheating on them, or someone wants to catch them. Hallucinations in dementia can be pleasant; for example, a person can see and talk to “little people”, animals, or a person from their past (such as a deceased parent). Studies of people with exceptional autobiographical memories or altered memories seem to support this. Older people with depression may have more memory lapses that can be confused with symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease or other types of dementia. Memory loss due to dementia is one of the most serious problems of the elderly, although it is not a direct consequence of aging. Vascular dementia also causes progressive loss of memory and other cognitive functions, including organization, attention, and problem solving. Although strokes may be unnoticeably small, the damage can accumulate over time, leading to memory loss, confusion, and other signs of dementia.

Personality and mood changes are usually the first symptoms, followed by speech problems and memory loss. In the mild phase, the patient has significant memory lapses such as loss of familiar places, disconnection from activities and conversations, may have trouble recognizing the date, and exhibit symptoms of depression and hostility.

Patients with mild cognitive impairment have actual memory loss rather than the sometimes slow recovery of memory from the relatively intact memory of the same age control group. Given enough time to think and answer questions, patients with age-related memory impairment can usually do so, indicating that memory and cognitive function are intact. Treatment with therapy can help recall lost memories and information, but it can take a long time and patient perseverance.

The memory changes slightly each time we remember it, and comes back stronger and brighter with each memory. It has long been thought that memory is more stable with age, but this is not always the case. Over time, people’s learning ability and memory quality decline without any lesions.

In fact, you keep reliving those awkward memories and you may feel like you can’t turn off your brain. The main symptom of long-term memory loss is forgetting something that happened earlier in your life that might have had some meaning or meaning to you, such as the name of your high school or where you lived. Patients with delirium have memory impairment, but the underlying cause is usually severe and fluctuating global changes in mental status (primarily in attention) and cognitive dysfunction rather than memory loss.

Memory loss or forgetfulness is scary once progressed. Loved one’s can become afraid once dementia is present. Not knowing past or current events, people, or places can change one’s understanding of who they are. Later to confuse time with blurred memory is life changing. Your not alone, resources are available for all parties involved.

It’s important to make note of new changes and address the accordingly. . Caregivers should communicate noticable changes to reassure safety and health concerns are provided. These illnesses can be challenging for all involved. Take care of yourself and each other.

Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there, blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter 🎭💗

🌸Time of Mindfulness

The Science of Positive Thinking: A blog post with tips on how to improve your mental health.

Photo by Daniel Torobekov on Pexels.com

Ten years ago, our mental health was overlooked. We were taught to sacrifice mental well-being for physical health, but science has proven that it’s unhealthy to do so. If you want to stay productive, happy and healthy, you should practice mindfulness, which is the practice of paying attention and awareness to your thoughts and feelings. Mindfulness can be applied to any task, but it’s helpful when you’re working on a project. It helps you to focus on the task at hand and on your mental health. Research has proven that mindfulness has a positive effect on productivity. In addition, mindfulness helps you to be more creative. You may find that mindfulness is easier to practice when you’re in nature, so you can take advantage of it when you have time.

Learning to acknowledge mindfulness provides a dynamic to happiness. A conscious reality to emotions, thoughts, and sensation felt through the body. An ability to focus on positive influences enables control. Thoughts determine success in life. Motivation and productivity Take control of your actions. A focused mind enhances retention, comprehension, and quality of life. To maintain mental health wellness can be challenging. Be patient with your thoughts, emotions, and actions. Your responsible for actions that slip by mouth that are unconscious thoughts. Your mind is priority, so treasure the thought process. Writing is a start to connecting to your own mind.

The problem with productivity is that it can be difficult to achieve. Everyone has their own personal method of getting things done. Some people may be able to get things done by avoiding distractions, while others may only have time to focus on a project for a short period of time. For those who are struggling to achieve greater levels of productivity, it might be time to start thinking about mindfulness. Studies have shown that a mindful attitude is essential for a productive workday. By taking a moment to pause, take a deep breath and reflect, you will be able to maintain a healthy mindset in the face of distractions. For example, if you are working on a project and you find yourself distracted by your friend’s call, you can take a moment to pause and focus on what you are doing. In the future, you can also use this technique to help maintain productivity when you work with a team.

Mindfulness is all about being aware of your thoughts and feelings in the moment, rather than letting your mind wander. When you’re working on a task and letting your mind wander, you’re not being mindful. And being unmindful can be detrimental to your productivity. When you’re mindful, you’re more productive because you’re in a state of active attention. You’re focused on the work in front of you, not letting your thoughts wander to something else. You’re letting go of negative unproductive thoughts rather than dwelling on them, and you’re actively focusing on something productive.

When you’re mindful, your brain receives signals that you’re safe. As a result, the part of your brain responsible for fight or flight (also known as the ‘primitive’ or ‘reptilian’ brain) shuts off, and the part responsible for problem solving (also known as the ‘rational’ or ‘human’ brain) turns on.

The result – Problem solving becomes easier while signals from stress hormones in our body decrease. Eliminating stress decreases the negative thoughts which mindfulness wins. It just takes a little practice to achieve mindfulness. Start today in creating a productive healthy life of mindfulness.

Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there. Remember Everyday Minds Matter 🦋💜

🏕Our Hidden Path

Secret Direction to Purpose

Oh, the world we live in today! Wouldn’t life be much simpler at times, if we had instructions or directions? Be to easy to navigate through our challenges and obstacles. We are late in discovery most time with everyday life, or overlook what we could of had long before. My purpose and hidden path.

Growing up in the county, 80’s and 90’s. – a peace of mind- tranquility, A time in history; outside at night,  echo’s of bullfrog carried through the woods.  Crickets a pain in the ass, lighting bugs, routine catching at nightfall.  Running through mud puddles after a good rain, drinking from the garden hose, and the joy of weeding the garden. Snapping green beans for canning, shucking corn on the cobb, cucumber for pickling, and berries for jam.  Watching dad fix the lawn mower or replacing brakes on the car.

An elderly couple lived on the driveway to my house. Maybe to be a pest or be nosey. Of course, visiting or getting in their way, likely got on their nerves. To me it was nice to check in on them when needed or just to visit to check new projects. Old man Clyde had a wood shed where he spent his time. Shep a boarder collie, like Lassie the TV show. Shep was old but he let us play, but watched as we picked tomotoes from the garden. Every moment was learning tools when Clyde explain his projects he was working on. One day Clyde was tinkering with a push mower-  sparked to gasoline; the whole shed in flames. Playing outside seeing the blaze- running to our uncle, he rushed to help. Old man Clyde so determined to save his burning shed – he suffered burns. Not wanting to go for treatment, conveinced he had too. Ambulance eventually took old man Clyde to hospital. Later told he had 1st degree burns trying to extinguish the blaze. Once Clyde got released to come home. Not hesitating to help his recovery; change bandages on his legs or check the mail. Or carrying in groceries was always worth a pack of gum and .50 cent or $1.00. He recovered over time. His wife was always glad to see me, she knew it took chores off her. Evaline was a fragile as her body was slow moving at times. I help with hanging curtains up and house hold things if needed. While at school, Evaline tried to change curtians, slipped from the stool broke her hip.

Caregiver become priority each day, after school. Positioning pillows, laundry, or help with other household chores, I was there. Just as her strength improved, she started using a walker, happiness covered my face.  Her recovery gave me joy since it took a lot of work.  Friendship had a special place deep in the heart.  One afternoon after school; knocking on the door- no answer. The car was gone but she was always home. Something was different. Mom was outside as I walked down the driveway. Starting to cry, mom hugged me saying she will write or call. She went to live with her daughter in Indiana.  Unable to say good-bye, heart broke, thinking my best friend didn’t say good-bye.  My days walking past the trailer, wondering if she thought of me. That day carried a weight–; good-bye’s hold much love– bring tears to my eyes.  Reunited visits of family or friends capture the heartfelt love of joy. And we all know the final days of life good-bye’s, can’t be prepared for. Endless tears….

As a young girl, everything inside was torn apart. Weak feeling, crying, and angry, wanting to be alone. What had happened? Kids aren’t suppose to be sad.  Every part of me, experienced hurt. Waiting for a letter or phone call from my friend. Mom and I had tried a few times, to contact her. The phone number she left– no answer.  Not a single letter in the mail.

To ease the pain, I wrote my friend many letters.  With no response, writing in a journal gave my heart relief. Over time, thinking about her many days. In my world, I knew she lost my address and number, to me she lived forever somewhere.

A plan was created written in crayon, marker, sealed with stickers and pink nail polish. Written by a brown eyed, brown haired 7-year-old- just in case she forgot about me.

  Everyday Minds Matter – mental health and well-being set the path for everyone. Establish practice to focus, retention, and concentration; healthy habits to prevent obstacles in mental status.  Overcome mental health challenges faced that affect daily routine. 

Writing that filled notebooks, diaries, and scrap paper- focused on my future dream.

In little time, old man Clyde move away. It was diffetent for a moment. Then one day, my mamaw- (fathers’ mom) move in the trailer.  The void was filled. Not skipping a beat; my brother and I had mamaw to aggravate.  With no time to waste, enjoying my childhood– documented every step of the way. Seems that the conversations grew on me. It was interesting to listen to my mamaws childhood. In my eyes it was more than interesting. A world where play was all work. In the early 1900’s not many toys were made. Everything from learning and entertainment was outdoors. Friends weren’t always close so most were visiting relatives.

A path to being a caregiver seemed to start young. Looking back I seemed to fall into the right path. Life takes us places and sometimes times passes- that all makes sense. Did you think back to your hidden path? How accurate did your role as a child play to your work or career choice?

Until our minds meet again.. Be safe out there and remember Everyday Minds Matter

😇Why Everyday Mind’s Matter

Just Thinking …

Everyday Minds Matter was envisioned from thoughts or brain storming written regularly. Those writings from a seven year old. The brown hair, brown eyed girl, designed a dream; written with crayon and marker – Everyday Minds Matter. The final dream; folded up, sealed with a heart, that shined in pink nail polish. Protected within a jewelry box that latched without a lock. Security was tight, upon opening the box; music played as the ballorina circled in dance formation. Everyday Mind’s Matter protected in deep secret held for 34 years. A secret only known by the designer, treasured for many years.

A treasured dream to helping others overcome mental challenges and obstacles faced daily. Offering resources, techniques, and personal connections that support each individual needs.

Everyday Minds Matter goal is to welcome everyone regardless of your challenges. As our own challenges differ not every one shares the same results. What helped me work towards a happy space isn’t always best for another. It’s okay to not be okay. Sometimes trial and error is experienced before the proper treatment is found.

Sharing your personal story, life events, and experience can be anothers blessing. To recognize positive and negative influencers can influence proper changes to avoid triggers. Educate and the practice of mind exercises can improve mental health habits.

5 Key Benefits of Everyday Mind’s Matter

1-*• Importance of Childhood Mental Development

Childhood mental health development are fundamental values that influence character and behavior, into adulthood. Just as we have always been told, “what you do today, determines your tomorrow”. Mental health has the same rules. All the environmental influences positive or negative, create behavioral response. The main areas are physical (motor), language, communication, cognitive, and social/emotional. The action that creates response can only be learnt overtime. To improve mental health; practice mind exercises applied to daily routine, like reading, writing, or audio, interaction boost cognitive development. Without fostering important skills at an early age, a child could show signs of mental health issues.

2-*• Mental Health Stages

Mental health stages are presented in stages. Acknowledge the symptoms of mental health concerns present. Being aware of a condition that’s causing issues is important. (examples: confusion, stumbling, behavioral changes, reaction delays, functioning abilities, social skills). Yes, we all ignore these normal signs. Listen to the body, mostly pay attention to sudden changes. Mental or physical delays to function and disrupt daily routines can appear quickly. In some cases, health concerns gradually build, and the issues become emergencies. These signs or early symptoms need attention of professional examination for developmental diagnosis.

3-*• Strategies Customized for You

Mental or physical evaluation determines a diagnosis for addressing the concerned issue. Understanding the mental health issue will help the recovery process. Following your Healthcare providers instructions to treatment is important. Healthcare providers such as therapist, psychologist, neurologist, counselors, customize a treatment plan to your needs.

4-*• Mind My Business

Maintaining Mind My Business means be committed to improving mental health issues. Be determined to utilize all professional care as needed. Mental health is priority to well-being, which an effect physical health create more issues. Ask questions, use resources, practice developmental skills for your diagnosis. Mind My Business is making your own mental health, healthy once again. Your Mind is important business. Be committed to the importance of healthy mental health practices.

5-*• Acknowledge, Educate, & Mindfulness

It’s not easy to accept mental health issues or concerns, when they develop. Acknowledging the effects and causes can help future prevention. Educate yourself with abilities to improve and treat the diagnosis. Understanding that assistance and resources are available. No concern or question is foolish, don’t feel ashamed to ask questions. Your mental health is the foundation to a healthy happy you. Find others who share the same experience. Sharing your story could change someone else’s life. Expressing abilities to function in everyday challenges are elements for improving well-being.

Final thoughts to acknowledge development issues can help one to take action. Early childhood mental health issues can be clearly obvious. ( anxiety, depression, motor or speech illness, more in-depth mental conditions). Mental disorders or mental illness effect thinking, behavior, mood, emotional, or combined conditions determine the disorder or illness. Mental health and physical health work together to support well being. If one is effected the other can begin to deteriorate soon, as well.

Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there, much love and blessings. Remember, Everyday Mind’s Matter🦋 – Della 🦋