Icetruck

“Studies focused on more specific techniques related to sexual pleasure of a woman and orgasm have generally not examined ways of touching in detail.” ~ Herbenick, D., et. al

A Quick Note…

As you’ve probably gathered from this article’s title, we’re going to be discussing some sensitive (read: adult) issues; in particular, the female anatomy as it relates to sexual intercourse.

In other words, this probably isn’t an appropriate article to let your 10-year-old read along to.

Fair enough?

Cool beans! Let’s get going!

The Mysterious Female Anatomy

It can be argued quite convincingly (kind of) that the human brain and universe are the only things more mysterious than the female anatomy.

Unless, of course, it’s you. The odds are that you understand your own body quite well.

But you may not know just how different your body is from that of other women’s.

As we’ll discuss in the study, each woman’s body is unique, which is evident in how the female genitalia operates.

The Mysterious Female “O.”

We’ll just put it out there: the female orgasm has been misunderstood throughout history. While science has uncovered plenty in the last 100+ years, they can’t quite grasp the female sexual climax.

Modern thinking on the subject of female orgasm – likely promulgated in part by widespread pornography use – is that penetration of the vagina is the most common and preferred method for a woman to achieve sexual climax.

This belief is mistaken.

Researchers Attempt to Find Out Exactly What Women Want In Bed

The Study: Objectives and Rationale

Professor Debra Herbenick, along with her colleagues at Indiana University, wanted to put forth a more comprehensive study.

The research team’s objectives were “to assess, in a U.S. (sample) of women, experiences related to orgasm, sexual pleasure, and genital touching.”

The rationale for the study was as follows:

– More individualized information as it relates to female anatomy and sex.

– To date, sparse research has been conducted relating to the variability in how women experience genital touching, which is highly individualistic.

– Inexplicably, while plenty of studies focus on sexual behavior, dysfunction, or satisfaction, the essential issue of sexual touch as it relates to sexual pleasure is almost nonexistent.

– The data obtained from research can assist certain professionals (e.g., surgeons, sex therapists) in understanding the potential areas of genital sensitivity, pleasure, and sexual response.

– Additional information may help to recognize and validate the rarer sexual experiences among women.

– Promoting “straightforward, detailed, and comfortable language” in discussing delicate sexual issues.

The Study: Methods

To achieve a reasonable sample size, Herbenick and her team issued and analyzed a confidential, internet-based survey of 1,055 women. The women ranged in age from 18 to 94.

Demographic variables were accounted for using statistical means; this is a critical element of the study, as researchers want to include the probable opinions of an international population in their final analysis.

Other variables accounted for were educational attainment, census area, household income, and internet access (yes or no).

The Survey

As mentioned, Herbenick’s team used an internet-based survey – and which included more than 30 questions relating to the participant’s background, sexual attitudes, sexual behaviors, sexual satisfaction, relationship experiences, and experiences of genital touching.

The survey was entirely voluntary, and no incentives were offered.

Respondents

– 693 (67.2%) reported a partner having touched their vagina/vulva.

– 667 (64.6%) of women reported vaginal intercourse.

– 523 (51.1%) reported receiving oral sex.

Orgasm During Intercourse

Here are the study’s key measures (percentages are in bold):

(1) A higher number of women reported needing clitoral stimulation to reach orgasm than not:

– 347 women (36.6%) of intercourse-experienced women required clitoral stimulation to orgasm.

– 341 women (36%) reported that they did not require clitoral stimulation to experience orgasm, but that clitoral stimulation enhanced the orgasm’s quality.

(2) Women reach orgasm more often with clitoral stimulation:

– 272 women (43%) reach orgasm three out of every four sexual encounters with clitoral stimulation.

– 184 women (29%) reach orgasm three out of every four sexual encounters without stimulation (strictly penile penetration.)

(3) Emotions and effort matter when it comes to sex…

– Over 50% of women “felt that spending the time to build arousal, having a partner who knows what they like, and emotional intimacy contributed to better orgasms.”

(4) Duration of sex doesn’t make a (big) difference…

– Just 147 women (18.5%) reported that longer sex contributed to better orgasms.

(5) The “location, pressure, shapes, and styles” of preferred genital touch – as expected – was highly personalized.

That said…

– Over 67% prefer direct clitoral stimulation.

– “It was common to report liking stimulation just around the clitoris (e.g., to the sides or above the clitoris), brushing over the clitoris without applying pressure, and labia stimulation.”

– Just 5% of all women preferred avoidance of the clitoris.

(6) Women who like clitoral stimulation prefer certain motions:

– 608 women (63.7%) preferred “up and down” stroking on the clitoris.

– 493 (51.6%) preferred circular motions.

– 292 (30.6%) had a preference for side-to-side touching.

(7) Touch matters too…

– “Most women preferred light- or medium-pressure touch on their vulva.”

– Only 102 women (10.7%) preferred firm pressure.

– 152 (15.9%) stated “all pressures felt good.”

(8) There IS some common ground…

60% of women agreed with 13 out of 15 questions relating to clitoral motion and touch. The four most common were:

– “…a rhythmic motion, a motion that circles around the clitoris, switching between motions, and switching between more and less touch.”

Final Thoughts

Speaking for the author, the most powerful takeaways from researching and writing the article are:

1. Women are highly individualistic in their definition of sexual satisfaction.
2. Asking your woman what feels her feel good is one of the most important things you can do. Don’t presume to know.
3. Pleasurable stimulation of the clitoris plays a vital role in both the occurrence and quality of most women’s orgasm.

So, when in doubt…ask!

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

Sources:
http://www.iflscience.com/brain/what-exactly-do-women-want-in-the-bedroom/
http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/0092623X.2017.1346530

The post Researchers Attempt to Find Out Exactly What Women Want In Bed appeared first on Power of Positivity: Positive Thinking & Attitude.

Source – powerofpositivity.com

Saad Hariri: Lebanon return from Saudi Arabia 'within days'

Lebanon's Prime Minister Saad Hariri says he will return home "in days" to formally submit his resignation.

Mr Hariri spoke to Future TV from Riyadh, his first public remarks since he announced he was stepping down last week.

His cabinet allies say he is being held captive, but Mr Hariri denied this.

He has blamed the Iran-backed Hezbollah movement for his resignation, citing concerns over his and his family's safety.

The US and UK have warned other countries not to use Lebanon for proxy conflicts.

Mr Hariri, a Sunni leader and businessman, was nominated to form Lebanon's government in November 2016.

• Iran and Saudi Arabia: Who's siding with whom
• Lebanon caught in crosshairs of Saudi-Iran tension
• Riyadh's night of long knives and long-range missiles

"I have resigned. I am going to Lebanon very soon and I will resign in the constitutional manner," he said in the TV interview.

A sombre Mr Hariri recognised that he did not resign in the "usual way" but said he wanted to give his country a "positive shock".

"My resignation came as a wake-up call for Lebanon," he said.

In televised remarks from Riyadh a week ago, Mr Hariri accused Iran and Hezbollah, a Shia group, of taking over Lebanon and destabilising the wider region.

He took aim at Hezbollah in his televised interview, saying: "I am not against Hezbollah as a party, I have a problem with Hezbollah destroying the country."

Mr Hariri also said that if he was to rescind his resignation, the Hezbollah movement must respect Lebanon's policy of staying out of regional conflicts.

Iran and Hezbollah have accused Saudi Arabia of holding Mr Hariri hostage.

But Mr Hariri insisted that he was free to travel as he pleased in the country. "I am free here. If I want to travel tomorrow, I will," he said.

His father, the former Lebanese leader Rafik Hariri, was killed in a car bombing in 2005.

Mr Hariri said that the main problem for the region was "Iran interfering in Arab states".

"I will not be responsible for taking Lebanon to a confrontation with the Arab states," Mr Hariri said, citing the recent launch of a missile against Riyadh from Yemen.

The Saudi-led coalition has accused Iran and Lebanon's Hezbollah operatives, working alongside Houthi rebels, of being behind the strike.

In a statement, UK Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson said he hoped Mr Hariri would return to Lebanon "without further delay".

Mr Johnson said the country "should not be used as tool for proxy conflicts" and its independence should be respected.

Source – bbc.com

Passive aggressive behavior is the indirect expression of hostility, such as through procrastination, controlling, stubbornness, sullen behavior, or deliberate or repeated failure to accomplish request tasks for while one is (often explicitly) responsible. – Wikipedia

“That’s really annoying…”

Passive-aggressive individuals hear these three words often.

Why? Let us count the ways…

1. They’re unreasonable to deal with.
2. They’re uncomfortable to be in the presence of.
3. They don’t express their problems with others directly.
4. They repeat, repeat, and repeat. They often do not change their conniving behaviors.

There are plenty of other reasons, but these are the four behaviors most commonly displayed by passive aggressives, according to Psychology Today.

“Why do you act like that?”

Not so long ago, Passive-aggressive personality disorder was a diagnosable condition. Though psychiatrists and psychologists no longer consider it an “official” diagnosis, it’s symptoms are problematic for many.

Perhaps the most bothersome aspect of the behavior is that the individual manifests their anger by stoking the anger of others. As they cannot express their anger constructively, they vicariously do so through others.

The workplace is one area where passive aggressive people have a load of problems. They’ll delay work, escalate issues, and act inefficiently to demonstrate their displeasure. They despise responsibility and will shun commitment whenever possible.

We don’t know for sure the causes of P-A behavior, but experts believe that it’s caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Child abuse, neglect, and harsh punishment may be contributory influences.

Substance abuse and low self-esteem are common in P-A’s.

Regarding treatment, talk therapy has proven to be helpful.

Handling passive-aggressive behavior

Relating to a passive-aggressive person can be a frustrating and challenging experience, with moments of anger and despair aplenty.

The question is, then, how can we get a good handle on the situation and maintain our emotional and mental equanimity?

Preston Ni, M.S.B.A., the author of How to Successfully Handle Passive-Aggressive People, provides the following five tips.

5 Ways To Deal With Passive Aggressiveness

1. Notice the behavior early

It goes without saying, but the earlier that we discover potential signs of passive-aggression, the better. It’s vitally important that we not excuse the behavior, especially if it’s a person were dating or meeting socially.

Ni recommends the following: “Notice whether the person instigates additional passive-aggressive behavior towards you…Once you identify a clear pattern of passive-aggressive behavior, its time to determine what type of relationship you want to have…if you desire (any) relationship at all…”

2. Avoid being the trigger

In close and intimate relationships, many passive-aggressives choose a partner with whom he or she can re-enact power struggles – and often do so unconsciously.

Ni advises the following: “Crucially, ask yourself: ‘Am I unknowingly giving into, encouraging, or eliciting my partner’s passive-aggressive behavior?”

He gives an example: unwittingly inviting your partner to re-engage in their past battles, by acting in a domineering fashion. We’ll get into why this is counterproductive later on.

3. Set boundaries and repercussions

Passive-aggressive individuals are quite covert about their thoughts and behaviors. When you notice a pattern of passive aggressiveness and confront the individual about these observations, you can expect denial, excuse making, and deflection of blame.

But that doesn’t mean you should tolerate it.

“The ability to identify and assert consequence is one of the most powerful skills we can use to ‘stand down’ a passive aggressive person,” Ni says. Setting boundaries and the consequences of violating those limits may compel the individual to act more cooperatively.

4. Give the person a chance to solve the problem

Some passive aggressive people believe they do not have a voice and that their input is ignored. If the situation is appropriate, it may be helpful to invite the person to discuss decisions of consequence.

Soliciting the person’s input may be all that they need. If the dialogue is amicable and leads to constructive changes, you may have just found the panacea.

On the flip side, if the person refuses to lower their guard and continues to act up, do not take the behavior personally. Politely disengage from the conversation and move on.

5. Act with poise and composure

As mentioned, passive-aggressive people (mistakenly) see themselves as victims. As a result of this perceived maltreatment, the person will interpret any display of anger, discontentment, or frustration as an affront.

The best thing to do is act with poise and composure. Difficult though it may be, taking your emotions out of the situation may be the best solution.

Final Thoughts

It is always our recommendation, regardless of a person’s shortcomings, to first recognize him or has as a human being.

On an individual level, it is essential that we do two things: (1) never mistreat anyone else, and (2) never allow ourselves to be mistreated. Compassion and respect is a must, as is setting boundaries and consequences.

Unfortunately, our world is full of individuals who seem to test our sanity – and the sooner we acknowledge this fact, the easier it will be to acquire and maintain a peace of mind. We should make every attempt to do just that.

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passive-aggressive_behavior
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/communication-success/201501/6-tips-dealing-passive-aggressive-people
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/communication-success/201508/10-signs-passive-aggressive-relationship

The post 5 Ways To Deal With Passive Aggressive Behavior Without Losing Your Mind appeared first on Power of Positivity: Positive Thinking & Attitude.

Source – powerofpositivity.com

“Whatever negative things people think and say about you is enough to bring you down provided you believe that it carries a weight that can push you hard. Don’t agree to accept what critics say; be prepared to silence them by doing what they think you can’t do!” – Israelmore Ayivor

If you’re like anyone else, you probably have come across some negative people in your day-to-day life. Maybe these people are co-workers, friends or even family. It can be frustrating to be surrounded by negativity in your life when all you want to do is move forward.

As Israelmore Ayivor rightly pointed out, “Save your skin from the corrosive acids from the mouths of toxic people. Someone who just helped you to speak evil about another person can later help another person to speak evil about you.”

Finding the right way to deal with negative people is the best way to get yourself on the right track to living a more positive life, and to be surrounded by more positive people. It sucks to feel like you have to cut people out of your life because their negativity is adversely affecting your own – thankfully, that’s not the only way to deal with negativity and the people who are plagued by it.

Here Are 5 Positive Ways To Deal With Negative People

1. Try to empathize, even when you don’t understand

Even if you can’t understand how they’re feeling all the time, it’s good to practice empathy with people who feel negative a lot of the time. Motivation and marketing trainer Brendon Burchard states, “That’s how we tap into our own humanity and compassion, and those things become a flood of good energy that washes away the negativity. Compassion wins.”

Sometimes, negative people just need to be understood rather than fixed. You never know what kind of major life changes or crises that they’re going through. Instead of trying to cheer them up, simply be a sounding board, and empathize with their struggles. Sometimes, people just need to be told, “Man, that sucks!” Just having someone to listen may be just the thing that they need to feel better and more positive.

2. Don’t try to give advice, unless its required

Unless they’re coming to you specifically for your advice, try to forgo telling them how to fix their problems. Sometimes, people who have a lot of negativity just don’t have anyone to share it with or anywhere to let off steam. If they need to complain, you can engage them in conversation and talk them through it. But, unless they ask, try not to offer unsolicited advice.

But does this mean you’re abandoning them?

“This doesn’t mean you abandon anyone. It simply means you watch, track their progress, keep quiet, and then be ready to answer their questions in a positive, inspiring way,” says author and speaker Phil Cooke.

If you’re not sure, you can even confirm with them: “Do you want my advice, or do you just need to vent?” Usually, they’ll just need to vent – after all, they probably have countless people offering them more advice than they know what to do with!

3. Figure out what makes them happy

Negative people aren’t negative all the time – even if that tends to be the only side of them that you see. But, really, they have things that make them happy the same as you or anyone else! When you figure out what that is, you can engage them on that topic or even surprise them with something that will cheer them up.

The issue isn’t that negative people have nothing that they love, it’s simply that they’re so overwhelmed with other things that they may not have the time to focus on that right now. Engaging them on a topic that makes them happy can give them an emotional respite from the negativity, which will make you both feel better.

4. Read between the lines

It might not be everyone’s strong suit, but it’s important to listen to the things that a negative person isn’t saying just as much as it is to listen to what they are saying. Sometimes, negative people use dark humor as a coping mechanism, but it can speak volumes to what they’re really going through.

They may be feeling more stressed out, depressed and alone than you realize. Being able to notice the things that aren’t being overtly said will help you better figure out how to help them feel more positive in your day-to-day interactions.

5. Have fun as that may be a solution

At the end of the day, sometimes all a negative person needs is to have a little fun. Life can be so stressful, and some people have to go at it alone. Instead of cutting a negative person out of your life, try to engage them and bring out a side of them that you haven’t seen before. Maybe, all they need is a friend willing to listen and to help them let go of some of their stress and worries.

Author Peter Economy states, “They just want someone else to take charge and to let go, since they feel so out of control of and disenchanted with their own lives. Be that person, and you both will be happier.” Who knows, you may find that your relationship strengthens the more you engage with them. In the end, their entire attitude could be completely turned around!

Negativity isn’t fun to deal with – for you, or the people who are feeling that way! When it comes to dealing with negativity, there’s more choices than simply shutting those people out of your life. After all, it’s not always plausible. Instead, learning how to deal with those feelings without absorbing them can mean that you’re helping people become more and more positive, while still keeping your own positive outlook on life. Before you know it, you’ll be surrounded by positive energy.

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

References:
http://brendon.com/blog/deal-negative-people/
http://www.philcooke.com/stop-giving-advice-to-people-who-dont-ask-for-it/
https://www.inc.com/peter-economy/5-ways-to-deal-with-the-really-negative-people-in-your-life.html

The post 5 Ways To Positively Deal With Negative People In Your Life appeared first on Power of Positivity: Positive Thinking & Attitude.

Source – powerofpositivity.com

“Whoever is careless with the truth in small matters cannot be given trust with important matters.” ~ Albert Einstein

How do you get someone to trust you?

The truth is we cannot “get” trust any more than we can “get” respect. Trust, like respect, is something that must be earned and – just as importantly – kept.

Simply put, trust is built over a period of time and by acting with integrity throughout that time.

While it may be difficult to ascertain everyone who you can trust, honest individuals typically display a set of common traits.

Let’s take a look at eight traits of trustworthy people:

1. Availability

Trustworthy people consider “being there” for others an utmost priority. In all likelihood, they’re willing to forgo their own comfort to assist someone in need.

In other words, you know someone is trustworthy when they say things like “I’m just a phone call away,” or “I’m here for you.” Honest people don’t take these words lightly, either. They’ll back up what they say with actions. If they don’t, you can bet they have a good reason.

2. Compassion

It’s no surprise that some of the most trustworthy people are compassionate and empathetic. Keeping their word is important to them, yes, but they understand that to do anything else would be hurtful.

Empaths, for example, tend to be devoted friends, family members, and partners; it’s almost unheard of for people in the group to disregard their commitments to someone else. Not surprisingly, empaths – among other selfless types – are the ones that often reignite our faith in humanity.

3. Consistency

Relating to the previous quality on our list, trustworthy people are consistent in their behaviors. They’re responsible individuals at work, at home, and in relationships.

The odds are that if someone displays habitual consistency, they’re worthy of trust.

4. Humility

Andrew Carnegie, one of history’s greatest industrialists and philanthropists, said, “As I grow older, I pay less attention to what men say. I just watch what they do.” Actions always speak louder than words; which leads to the next point: trustworthy people are humble.

They’re humble because they don’t feel the need to prove anything. Boastfulness is the mirror opposite of humility and can be a big red flag. Honest people don’t go around saying “I’m honest.” They’re too humble for such nonsense. Instead, they turn their thoughts to actions – which, in turn, do all the talking.

5. Honor

The ancient Greek poet Sophocles said, “I would prefer even to fail with honor than win by cheating.” Sophocles, by all historical accounts, was an honorable man greatly revered in ancient Greece.

Trustworthy people also value honor, both from themselves and others. Whether it’s fulfilling a commitment or making a verbal agreement, honest people do the right thing.

6. Kindness

Not everyone who shows kindness is trustworthy, whether by design or poor judgment. That said, most trustworthy people are kind to others. They’re polite, civil and conscientious.

If a person you know is almost always kind and courteous – and backs up what they say with action – they are probably someone you can trust.

7. Authenticity

The seventh trait on our list is a well-timed follow up to the sixth. Authenticity is defined as “not false or copied; genuine; real.”

Fake people, by their very nature (and well-deserved title), can not be authentic. Thus, they’re more likely to deceive and disrupt intentionally. A truthful individual will say what needs to be said, as they know their words are spoken with meaning.

8. Selflessness

Think about five people who you wholeheartedly admire. It can be a historical figure or someone in your family. Just for illustration, this writer’s “top five” are Jesus, Buddha, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., and Mother Theresa.

Notice that everyone on this list was wholeheartedly selfless. Furthermore, all were known for redirecting the spotlight back onto people who looked up to them.

In short, the most trustworthy people are often the most selfless – and they all dedicated their lives to something greater than themselves.

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

Sources:
http://www.success.com/blog/9-traits-of-trustworthy-people
https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/a/alberteins125154.html
https://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/s/sophocles155151.html

The post 8 Traits of The Most Trustworthy People appeared first on Power of Positivity: Positive Thinking & Attitude.

Source – powerofpositivity.com

“When you get to know a person’s handwriting well enough, you recognize what script it is, just as if it were a well-known painting or photograph. Graphology is based on the principle that every individual’s handwriting has a character of its own, and this is entirely due to the uniqueness of the writer’s personality.” ~ The British Institute of Graphologists

Did you know…

That graphology – the study of handwriting – has been around since the great philosopher Aristotle? That’s right; people have been studying one another’s handwriting for over 2,500 years.

Today, graphology is used for a variety of purposes, including psychological testing, employee selection, and even criminal investigations. How a person writes, according to the British Institute of Graphologists (BIG), can be used in “any area of human activity,” such as personality profiling, forensic analysis, and career guidance.

“What’s the rationale for graphology?”

On the surface, handwriting analysis may seem a bit quirky. However, considering that we all write differently, it’s fair to say that something – our genetics, personality traits, habits, frame of mind – is different as well.

BIG makes a couple of noteworthy observations:

“We were all taught to write in a specific way when we were children … but it is evident (that) everyone’s handwriting looks different. In fact, as soon as someone can write, he or she gradually alters the shapes and sizes of letters in accordance with (likes) and dislikes.”

Ultimately, the central principle of graphological practice is summed up as follows: “… handwriting is the pattern of our psychology expressed in symbols on the page, and these symbols are as unique as our own DNA.”

“A blend of art and science.”

The written word is made up of three elements: movement, spacing and form. Graphologists place particular emphasis on form when analyzing how one writes. When observing form, graphologists focus on angles, slants, and spacing.

The above is the scientific aspect of graphology – but there is an “art” to the science. That is, experts also consider individual circumstances (setting, situation) in the analysis. So, graphology is somewhat of an “abstract science.”

Graphology and personality traits

Anyone else thinking of the scene when Sherlock Holmes analyzed Professor Moriarty’s signature in Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows? Ha-ha. Awesome scene… anyways, it is relevant to this section.

One area where graphology has been widely utilized is in the study of personality traits. According to master graphologist Kathi Knight, “Just from analyzing your handwriting, experts can find over 5,000 (traits.)”

What does your handwriting reveal?

Ok, do you have a paper and pen ready? You’ll need one for this next part. (This writer took part as well. Must say that the results were quite accurate!)

Let’s go!

Please write out the following sentence in cursive: “The quick fox jumps over the lazy dog.”

Got it? Awesome. Now let’s see what a graphologist would say based on nine criteria.

Size

– If your letters are large, you’re probably more extraverted (outgoing.) You may also feel the need to be noticed and understood, as do many other people-oriented individuals.

– If your letters are small, you’re likely to be quieter or shy – two behaviors strongly associated with introverts. You may also possess stronger-than-average focus and concentration skills.

Slant

– If your writing slants to the right, you’re impulsive, gregarious, sentimental, and good-hearted. You also place the utmost importance on relationships with friends and family.

– If your writing is centered (no visible slant), you’re probably very logical and precise in thought. In fact, you may value logic over emotions. For you, pragmatism rules the day.

– If your writing slants to the left, you may be a more reserved person. When it comes to work, you’d rather focus more on things than people. In other words, you may want to avoid retail.

Pressure

– If your writing resembles a bold font, you may feel emotions very strongly. You may also be a bit more reactionary in nature.

– If your writing is lighter toned, you may be more relaxed in disposition. You tend to manage your energy wisely.

Upper zone (the ‘l’ and ‘t’ in your writing sample)

– If your ‘l’ loops widely, you may have big dreams and goals.

– If your ‘l’ is tighter in form, you may feel disheartened by not yet reaching your aspirations.

– If your ‘t’ is looped, you may take criticism harshly. You may also be somewhat of a suspicious person.

– If your ‘t’ is linear, you’re well-disciplined, a diligent worker, and self-controlled.

Lower zone (the ‘y’ in your sample)

– A tight ‘y’ (little to no loop) may indicate you keep a small circle of friends.

– A broad ‘y’ means you have a larger social circle.

– A long ‘y’ may signify that you love traveling.

– A short ‘y’ means you’re more of a homebody.

Letter connection

– If your cursive diligently connects each letter, you’re likely more methodical and logical.

– If your cursive disconnected at certain points, you’re probably intelligent and intuitive.

Crossed ‘t’s’

– If most of your ‘t’s’ are crossed higher (near the top of the letter), you are both goal-oriented and self-confident.

– If you crossed your ‘t’s’ lower, you may feel insecure and lacking in direction.

Spacing

– If your words are closely spaced, you may need better time management skills.

– If your wording is evenly spaced, you are respectful of individual boundaries (including your own!)

How did you do? What are your thoughts? We’d love to hear from you!

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

Sources:
http://www.britishgraphology.org/about-british-institute-of-graphologists/graphology-today/
http://www.britishgraphology.org/about-british-institute-of-graphologists/what-is-graphology/
http://www.businessinsider.com/what-handwriting-says-about-your-personality-2015-1

The post Researchers Explain What Your Handwriting Says About You appeared first on Power of Positivity: Positive Thinking & Attitude.

Source – powerofpositivity.com

“Am I still tired, or what?”

“Brain fog includes symptoms of confusion, forgetfulness, and lack of focus and mental clarity. It is avoidable and treatable.” ~ Deane Alban

When you get seven to nine hours of sleep, you generally wake up quite refreshed. Sure, there may be a bit of the “sleep eye,” but it’s nothing a cup of coffee and a hot shower won’t cure. A non-morning person may need a bit (maybe, a lot) more coffee – but they’ll still shake it off.

Odds are if you constantly feel yucky and groggy feeling during the morning hours, there’s something amiss. Brain fog, while not a medically recognized term, is a real condition. Brain fog is also quite common – but it isn’t a healthy or normal state.

We’re going to discuss five big reasons for brain fog, as well as how to combat this crappy feeling. We’ll call these “fog fixes” just for fun.

Here are 5 reasons you still feel tired when you wake up:

Reason #1: Lack of quality sleep

Big surprise what takes numero uno, right? A surprise to (*counting hands*) no one? Alright moving on.

Per the National Sleep Foundation or NSF, “at least 40 million Americans suffer from over 70 different sleeping disorders … 60 percent of adults report having sleep problems a few nights a week or more.”

Without proper sleep (around 7-9 hours for a healthy adult), the brain and body can not be replenished. A sluggish mind plus a sluggish body equals a bad day.

Fog Fix #1: Get in the habit of going to bed and waking up at the same time every night, even on the weekends. Have a routine set for bedtime (e.g., shower, put on jammies, dim lights, read for 30 minutes, lights out.)

Reason #2: Poor nutrition/bad diet

While you may be eating healthy, it doesn’t mean you’re getting the necessary amount of nutrients. Nutritional deficiencies are prevalent – and a big reason for brain fog.

Fog Fix #2: Ensure that you’re (a) eating a well-balanced, healthy diet, and (b) supplementing for shortcomings in nutritional intake. Vitamins A, C, and B12, along with calcium, magnesium, and zinc are very important for brain health.

Taking a high-quality multivitamin is a good option to get all essential and non-essential nutrients. Pure food sources are even better.

Reason #3: Chronic stress

There’s this widespread myth in society that subjecting yourself to constant stress for the sake of work (“productivity” *cough* “BS!” *Cough*) is noble.

What?!

We have all the technology to make every piece of information in the world available at our fingertips; yet, less than one-quarter of Americans work for a company that allows remote work. Ironically, over 80 percent of people who work from home report higher satisfaction.

Productivity? Data studies show remote work increases it dramatically.

Work is a huge part of the stress epidemic in this country (and others.) It’s a problem yearning to be corrected – and we’re failing miserably. Limited free time, stagnant wages, and more responsibilities are also contributing to this epidemic.

Fog Fix #3: Of course, check if your employer allows any kind of remote work. Also, keep a schedule (as much as you may hate the idea) as doing so will allow you to see where your time is spent. This allows you to adjust said time accordingly. Take any and all measures to reduce your stress levels. (This list is a great place to start!)

Reason #4: Stagnant lifestyle

As in we’re turning into constantly tired couch potatoes. Something that is almost justified given the insane time-stress we’re always facing.

(I’ve dealt with this issue myself, working and studying (still); gaining weight and putting back on weight. Not an easy cycle to break.)

But this stress is exactly why we need to make time for exercise. Consider the following:

– Even moderate exercise releases endorphins and neutralizes cortisol. The former mechanism gives us that euphoric post-workout feeling; the latter minimizes stress.

– There is a proven correlation between exercise and brainpower.

– The act of walking at a reasonable pace is one of the best exercises to clear your mind.

Fog Fix #4: Take simple steps to get more exercise. You needn’t train like a cyclist for the Tour De France. A brisk 15-30 minute daily walk will suffice. Of course, as time permits, ratchet up the intensity a notch. You can do it!

Reason #5: Dehydration

Consider this statistic: it takes only a 2% drop in hydration levels to affect attention and memory. Consider a second statistic: more than three-quarters of Americans are chronically dehydrated.

Water gives the brain the electrical energy needed for all brain functions, including thought and memory processes. H2O is also required for the production of brain neurotransmitters and hormones.

Fog Fix #5: This is a simple solution, yet it can be hard to remember. Carry a water bottle with you at all times. Even better, keep a water bottle at every location where you spend chunks of time.

If you make a conscious effort to do this, you will drink more water. As a result, you’ll be more focused; you’ll think much faster, and you’ll maximize your creativity!

Sources:
http://www.apa.org/topics/sleep/why.aspx
http://www.healthhype.com/tips-to-remedy-morning-muzzy-feeling-foggy-mind-groggy.html
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/04/22/magazine/how-exercise-could-lead-to-a-better-brain.html
https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2016/24-percent-of-employed-people-did-some-or-all-of-their-work-at-home-in-2015.htm
https://bebrainfit.com/brain-fog-causes-symptoms-solutions/#cause8
https://www.surepayroll.com/resources/blog/productivity-prohibitors-how-to-stop-them-in-their-tracks

(C)Power of Positivity, LLC. All rights reserved

The post 5 Reasons People Still Feel Tired After Waking Up, According to Science appeared first on Power of Positivity: Positive Thinking & Attitude.

Source – powerofpositivity.com

Iranians report at least 61 dead, 300 injured from quake

A powerful magnitude 7.2 earthquake hit the region along the border between Iran and Iraq on Sunday, killing at least 61 people and injuring 300 in Iran, an Iranian official said.

Iranian state TV said Iraqi officials had reported six deaths and 200 injuries inside Iraq, though there was no official comment from Iraq's government.

The U.S. Geological Survey said the quake was centered 19 miles (31 kilometers) outside the eastern Iraqi city of Halabja.

The Islamic Republic of Iran News Network quoted the head of the country's emergency medical services, Pirhossein Koulivand, as saying early Monday that at least 61 had been killed and 300 injured on Iran's side of the border.

Iranian state TV also said Iraqi officials reported at least six people dead inside Iraq, along with more than 50 people injured in Sulaymaniyah province and about 150 in Khanaquin city. No reports were immediately available from Iraq's government.

Koulivand earlier told a local television station that the earthquake knocked out electricity in Iran's western cities of Mehran and Ilam. He also said 35 rescue teams were providing assistance.

Iranian social media was abuzz Sunday night with posts of people evacuating their homes, particularly in Kermanshah and Ghasr-e Shirin.

The semi-official Iranian ILNA news agency said at least 14 provinces in Iran had been affected by the earthquake.

Officials announced that schools in Kermanshah and Ilam provinces would be closed Monday because of the tremor.

Iran sits on many major fault lines and is prone to near-daily quakes. In 2003, a magnitude 6.6 earthquake flattened the historic city of Bam, killing 26,000 people.

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Source – abcnews.go.com

By Mark Kleinman, City Editor

One of Britain's largest petrol station operators has picked banks to steer a £1.5bn stock market listing next year even as investors project mixed signals about their appetite to back UK flotations.

Sky News understands that Lone Star Funds has hired bankers at Citi, JPMorgan and Numis Securities to oversee an initial public offering (IPO) of MRH GB, which trades from about 450 forecourts across the UK.

The flotation has been pencilled in for next year, although the exact timing and a final decision about whether to press ahead have yet to be taken.

MRH GB's sites are largely branded under the BP, Esso, Shell or Torq names, and include retail partners such as Costa, Greggs and Subway.

The company describes itself as the biggest independent fuel retailer in the UK, competing with the likes of EuroGarages and Motor Fuel Group.

Its plans have emerged during a period when investors have been showing greater equivocation about backing some of the companies attempting to list on the London Stock Exchange.

Bakkavor, an Icelandic-backed food producer, announced ten days ago that it was shelving its IPO plans, only to say on Friday that it was performing a u-turn by selling its shares at a lower-than-expected price.

Arqiva, the communications infrastructure provider, abandoned its own float altogether, while a number of other companies have decided to delay going public until the new year or pursue private sales instead.

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Source – News.sky.com

Strong quake hits Iraq-Iran border region

An earthquake of magnitude 7.2 has hit the border region between Iran and Iraq, the US Geological Survey (USGS) says.

It struck 32km (20mi) south-west of the Iraqi town of Halabja, the USGS said.

Iranian state media said it was felt in several provinces, with eight villages damaged and electricity cut.

Kurdish TV also said many people in Iraqi Kurdistan fled their homes when it struck but there were no initial reports of casualties.

Source – bbc.com