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  35. <title>Our Declaration of Independence</title>
  36. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/our-declaration-of-independence/</link>
  37. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/our-declaration-of-independence/#respond</comments>
  39. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  40. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:13:48 +0000</pubDate>
  41. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  42. <category><![CDATA[All Voices Matter]]></category>
  43. <category><![CDATA[Animals Lives Matter]]></category>
  44. <category><![CDATA[Empathy In Action]]></category>
  45. <category><![CDATA[Equality For All]]></category>
  46. <category><![CDATA[Human Rights Matter]]></category>
  47. <category><![CDATA[Inclusion Matters]]></category>
  48. <category><![CDATA[Justice For All]]></category>
  49. <category><![CDATA[Kindness Is Power]]></category>
  50. <category><![CDATA[Lift Each Other Up]]></category>
  51. <category><![CDATA[One Human Family]]></category>
  52. <category><![CDATA[Peace And Equality]]></category>
  53. <category><![CDATA[Stand For Justice]]></category>
  54. <category><![CDATA[Together We Rise]]></category>
  55. <category><![CDATA[United For Freedom]]></category>
  56. <category><![CDATA[Unity In Diversity]]></category>
  57. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=13031</guid>
  58.  
  59. <description><![CDATA[Our Declaration of Independence begins thusly: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” From the very get-go, this world-renowned document establishes that we are all equal and [&#8230;]]]></description>
  60. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/12c8e-cwterk8ueaaaqvd.jpg"><img data-attachment-id="13035" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/cwterk8ueaaaqvd/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/12c8e-cwterk8ueaaaqvd.jpg" data-orig-size="640,382" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="CWtErk8UEAAaQVd" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/12c8e-cwterk8ueaaaqvd.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/12c8e-cwterk8ueaaaqvd.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-13035 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/12c8e-cwterk8ueaaaqvd.jpg?w=300&#038;h=179" alt="Illustration dispicting Our Declaration of Independence: Kindness is free" width="300" height="179" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/12c8e-cwterk8ueaaaqvd.jpg?w=300&amp;h=179 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/12c8e-cwterk8ueaaaqvd.jpg?w=600&amp;h=358 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/12c8e-cwterk8ueaaaqvd.jpg?w=150&amp;h=90 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  61. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Our Declaration of Independence begins thusly: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” From the very get-go, this world-renowned document establishes that we are all equal and have basic rights bestowed on us by God. True, this document is from the United States, but scholars around the world have studied it, and it has gone on to influence the creation of many such texts and documents worldwide. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Sounds good, doesn’t it?</span></p>
  62. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Although our founding fathers were careful to use the word ‘Creator’ and certainly intended for the United States to be all-inclusive in terms of the religious and spiritual creeds of its citizens, by and large, we know that they were followers of Christ. Therefore, through a simple exercise of deductive reasoning, we understand that the founding fathers intended for their brothers and sisters in Christ to make the land a peaceful, amicable place to live for all. Unfortunately, America’s citizens have by and large failed to meet that mark, both by the standards of our foundational documents and God himself.</span></p>
  63. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">How have we done this? How have we made this critical and fundamental errors when we are guaranteed these ‘inalienable’ rights—and why have we not spread these rights on to the rest of God’s creatures? All of these questions may be too large for this blog post to tackle head on, but my personal opinion comes from many different basses.</span></p>
  64. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">For one, Christianity may be the most practiced religion in the United States, and it’s true that everyone is free to be what they are, be it Christian, Muslim, Jewish, etc., but there has been a disheartening general trend, increasing over the past few decades. This trend is towards Christian persecution, with an array of anti-Christian rhetoric and a tendency to blame all of the ills and evils of our society on Christian sources. While it is true that our faith and leadership need constant attention and cultivation, it is hardly fair or correct to blame an entire religious body for all of America’s problems.</span></p>
  65. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The rights of our fellow man are often undercut and undermined by those in positions of power. Disgracefully, we have seen even trusted political leaders and other figures of power and authority fall under scandal with relation to the exploitation of young men and women, often tied to human trafficking for the sex trade. These truly heinous crimes are not just sins in the eyes of man, but in the eyes of God, as well.</span></p>
  66. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Poverty, too, and class warfare, as well as prejudices, racism, and other social issues, are to blame for the wide chasm where human rights should snugly fit into place. Why, there is currently a man running for the governorship of the state of Oklahoma who actively advocates for the euthanization of disabled people.</span></p>
  67. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I’ll give you a moment to both process those words and to give it a quick Google to confirm this disgusting fact. It is, indeed, true, and treads upon the already downtrodden. And what of our animal friends? There are numerous organizations in North America and, indeed, the world over, all dedicated to the rights of animals.</span></p>
  68. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In relation to the Declaration of Human Rights, each and every human and even non-human including animals has the right to liberty, life, and safety.</span></p>
  69. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>ANIMALS RIGHTS AND THE IMPORTANCE OF ALL LIVES</strong></span></p>
  70. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In addition, as said by the Global Covenant on Political and Civil Rights &#8220;Every human being has the characteristic and inherent right to life. This right is going to be secure by regulation. No one will be randomly dispossessed and deprived of his or her life.&#8221;</span></p>
  71. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I look at the United States today and I ask, what about their right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness? For the most part, for the overwhelming majority, all of this simply means being left alone by humankind and simply allowing our fellow beings to exist.</span></p>
  72. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A cow does not pursue happiness by stockpiling weapons and forming a guerrilla warfare militia, that would be man. A dog pursues happiness just in being by man’s side, and by chasing their tails, swimming, exploring a hiking trail with their human companions, etc.</span></p>
  73. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">We human beings are a part of this great web of all creation, existing among the biggest and smallest of God’s creatures. Each and every creature plays its own part, creating symbiosis, the circle, and cycle of life. The other creatures do not try to manipulate the web, that role falls solely onto humankind. That is our sin. What is theirs?</span></p>
  74. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The answer is that they do not sin. Man is the only creature capable of sin, and therefore of redemption through the love of Christ and God’s grace. The animals are universally loved by God, with no holy laws to abide. Why is this so? Because God has made humankind the stewards of the animals, custodians of their lives. What have we done to show our Heavenly Father that we can act in that capacity? Horrors. Only horrors.</span></p>
  75. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Factory farms. Hunting for game or sport. Torturing animals. Breeding them with such specific traits that they cannot even reproduce by natural means. Slaughtering them en masse, taking their flesh in our teeth, tasting their fears with our tongues, and delighting in that flavor.</span></p>
  76. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This was not a part of God’s plan. This is not God’s grand design. This is hubris. This is folly. This is unjust. This is cruelty. If you feel angry, then good. You should. If you feel upset, then good. You should. If you feel deep down in your bones that you are ready to stand, brothers and sisters, I invite you to straighten your spine with tungsten and steel and stand tall beside me.</span></p>
  77. ]]></content:encoded>
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  90. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
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  92.  
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  94. <media:title type="html">Illustration dispicting Our Declaration of Independence: Kindness is free</media:title>
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  96. </item>
  97. <item>
  98. <title>Friends</title>
  99. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/friends/</link>
  100. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/friends/#respond</comments>
  102. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  103. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 14:01:35 +0000</pubDate>
  104. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  105. <category><![CDATA[Better Days Ahead]]></category>
  106. <category><![CDATA[Encouragement Matters]]></category>
  107. <category><![CDATA[Friendship Goals]]></category>
  108. <category><![CDATA[Here For You]]></category>
  109. <category><![CDATA[Keep Going]]></category>
  110. <category><![CDATA[Lean On Me]]></category>
  111. <category><![CDATA[LifeIs A Journey]]></category>
  112. <category><![CDATA[Never Alone]]></category>
  113. <category><![CDATA[One Day At A Time]]></category>
  114. <category><![CDATA[Ride The Waves]]></category>
  115. <category><![CDATA[Strong Together]]></category>
  116. <category><![CDATA[Support And Love]]></category>
  117. <category><![CDATA[This Too Shall Pass]]></category>
  118. <category><![CDATA[Ups And Downs]]></category>
  119. <category><![CDATA[You Got This]]></category>
  120. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=13026</guid>
  121.  
  122. <description><![CDATA[&#160; Sometimes, life can be a little unfair while wriggling through the ups and downs. In our pursuit to make life worthy enough to be loved and cherish, we may hit the unnoticed life stump which leads to a horrific memory that in most cases leaves a deep psychological scar. Going down the memory lane [&#8230;]]]></description>
  123. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cf6b9-img_2475.jpeg"><img data-attachment-id="13040" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/img_2475/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cf6b9-img_2475.jpeg" data-orig-size="349,353" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;1&quot;}" data-image-title="IMG_2475" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cf6b9-img_2475.jpeg?w=297" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cf6b9-img_2475.jpeg?w=349" class="alignnone wp-image-13040 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cf6b9-img_2475.jpeg?w=297&#038;h=300" alt="Illustration dispicting friends." width="297" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cf6b9-img_2475.jpeg?w=297&amp;h=300 297w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cf6b9-img_2475.jpeg?w=148&amp;h=150 148w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cf6b9-img_2475.jpeg 349w" sizes="(max-width: 297px) 100vw, 297px" /></a></p>
  124. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  125. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Sometimes, life can be a little unfair while wriggling through the ups and downs. In our pursuit to make life worthy enough to be loved and cherish, we may hit the unnoticed life stump which leads to a horrific memory that in most cases leaves a deep psychological scar. Going down the memory lane and reflecting on those hard times sometimes may not be enough to compensate what these memories have caused already.</span></p>
  126. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Everyone experiences a varying degree of stress, what distinguishes stress reactions from trauma is the degree of threat and the degree of helplessness inclusively.</span></p>
  127. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Naturally, stress drives us to the edge of our enduring capability, but we&#8217;re still able to reflect and function to some heights. With trauma, we are paralyzed, unable to reply, unable to devise strategies of security or action. However, the world has presented us with a situation that we cannot understand, master, or respond to, but even in the midst of the dark clouds, there&#8217;s sure to be a promising light end.</span></p>
  128. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Very frightening or distressing events may result in a psychological wound or injury. This trauma can result in difficulty in coping or functioning normally. Everyone&#8217;s reaction to potentially traumatic experiences is different. Most people recover well with the help of family and friends and do not experience long-term problems. Some people experience problems directly after the traumatic event or much later.</span></p>
  129. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you&#8217;ve experienced a stressful or disturbing scenario that&#8217;s left you feeling down and emotionally out of control, you may have been traumatized. Psychological trauma may leave you struggling with upsetting notions, reminiscences, and anxiety that won&#8217;t fade off that easily. It can also leave you feeling disconnected and unable to trust certain people. Each time awkward things surfaces; it may take a while to get over the pain and become safe again. Nonetheless, whether the trauma happened in a couple of years ago or yesterday, you can always make solution changes and move on with your life, it&#8217;s precious.</span></p>
  130. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is quite understandable how gross our past ordeals can negatively influence the beauty of our dream life, and I&#8217;m pretty sure no one would want for his or her life to become uninviting and gloomy. We hold the rein of our lives and dream not just to make it jaw dropping but worth showing off to the world.</span></p>
  131. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Isolating and beating one&#8217;s self in the head is not a point here as it will one make matters worse. Relating to others face to face will significantly suffice, so make sure to keep a quality relationship and avoid wasting away.</span></p>
  132. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Ultimately, it brings me great sorrow when I see people give in to life circumstances, have you forgotten that your reactions to others and what comes your way take a greater contribution in the definition of life itself? In that stead, I urge everyone, sitting idly and drenched in depression to stand up to the call of your true self. &#8220;How we treat life&#8217;s statue is exactly how we&#8217;ll define it, and its impact on us.&#8221;</span></p>
  133. ]]></content:encoded>
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  146. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
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  148.  
  149. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/cf6b9-img_2475.jpeg?w=297&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  150. <media:title type="html">Illustration dispicting friends.</media:title>
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  152. </item>
  153. <item>
  154. <title>Ecofeminism: Where Animal Rights and Women&#8217;s Rights Intersect</title>
  155. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/ecofeminism-where-animal-rights-and-womens-rights-intersect/</link>
  156. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/ecofeminism-where-animal-rights-and-womens-rights-intersect/#respond</comments>
  158. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  159. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:49:29 +0000</pubDate>
  160. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  161. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  162. <category><![CDATA[Climate Feminism]]></category>
  163. <category><![CDATA[Compassionate Activism]]></category>
  164. <category><![CDATA[Ecofeminism]]></category>
  165. <category><![CDATA[Environmental Justice]]></category>
  166. <category><![CDATA[Ethical living]]></category>
  167. <category><![CDATA[Human And Non Human Rights]]></category>
  168. <category><![CDATA[Intersectional Feminism]]></category>
  169. <category><![CDATA[Liberation For All]]></category>
  170. <category><![CDATA[Social Justice]]></category>
  171. <category><![CDATA[Sustainable Activism]]></category>
  172. <category><![CDATA[Womens Rights]]></category>
  173. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=13020</guid>
  174.  
  175. <description><![CDATA[&#160; Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Gender theorists and a score of different types of scientists have weighed in on how their chosen field of concentration affects both society and the world as a whole. The conversation about ecofeminism, however, is about the intersectionality of human and animal rights. Many of us [&#8230;]]]></description>
  176. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;</p>
  177. <p><b><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/f923a-img_2476.jpeg"><img data-attachment-id="13042" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/img_2476/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/f923a-img_2476.jpeg" data-orig-size="1600,1067" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="IMG_2476" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/f923a-img_2476.jpeg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/f923a-img_2476.jpeg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-13042 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/f923a-img_2476.jpeg?w=300&#038;h=200" alt="Image showing women and animal rights. " width="300" height="200" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/f923a-img_2476.jpeg?w=300&amp;h=200 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/f923a-img_2476.jpeg?w=600&amp;h=400 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/f923a-img_2476.jpeg?w=150&amp;h=100 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a><br />
  178. Can two walk together, except they be agreed?</b></p>
  179. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Gender theorists and a score of different types of scientists have weighed in on how their chosen field of concentration affects both society and the world as a whole. The conversation about ecofeminism, however, is about the intersectionality of human and animal rights.</span></p>
  180. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Many of us are seeking changes in the world and society that we live in. We look for the end of hunger, cruelty, for females to have the guarantee of a good education in a world where the shocking majority of illiterate are poor people, we seek to end the needless torture of countless animals whose worth has incorrectly been defined by our palates.</span></p>
  181. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is difficult to face the issue of speciesism without taking into consideration how the oppression entailed there compares to the oppression handed down by a patriarchal society. Part of the commentary of feminism responds to a common thread or feeling that some women share; the feeling that misogynists have treated them as though they are little more than a slab of meat.</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">            </span></p>
  182. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Using this tragically commonplace and damaging correlation between women and “meat” alone draws the parallels that ecofeminism and its adherents fight to shake free from.</span></p>
  183. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The aim of feminist pursuits is a peaceful coexistence which directly calls for equality between genders regardless of association, but how can we deny the equal rights of non-human creatures in this pursuit of equality?</span></p>
  184. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">We fight the exploitation paradigms that we live under, we strive to include all life in the harmony of equality. Part of the separation of genders as prescribed by modern society is a holdover from previous generations: The hunt, or rather, the act of hunting, particularly by egotistical men, particularly hunting animals thought of as dangerous, proving their masculinity. Not only are males expected to take part in these activities, societal pressures equates the death of innocent creatures with a concept of masculinity as arcane as they come.</span></p>
  185. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The uncomfortable truth is that the majority of hunting in North America and other countries takes place not for sustenance, but for blood sport.</span></p>
  186. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Howbeit, there are some filthy rich people in this world who are cold-hearted and could care less about God, Jesus Christ but they give plenty to help genocide and trap the population, though. The wrath of God is far worst then anything man can do. Fear Him ( Luke 12:5)</span></p>
  187. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The taxidermy industry quietly thrives on the steady flow of carcasses murdered and claimed in the name of masculine pursuit, just as the struggles of the modern woman are paralleled by this.</span></p>
  188. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Women today, too, often feel “hunted”, as more report stalking behavior and other unwanted attention, and the struggle of feeling like prey simply by walking to a vehicle in a dark parking lot prevails.</span></p>
  189. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Our duties to be kind and loving to our fellow creatures knows no bound, but in practice, we human beings tend to leave much to be wanted.</span></p>
  190. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Think of your faithful pet, and the joy and love they bring to your lives. What if it were that simple for all of us to bring joy and love into the lives of all we encounter? Animals are our greatest teachers. Let us look to them for inspiration in loving kindness.</span></p>
  191. ]]></content:encoded>
  193. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/ecofeminism-where-animal-rights-and-womens-rights-intersect/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  194. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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  204. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
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  208. <media:title type="html">Image showing women and animal rights. </media:title>
  209. </media:content>
  210. </item>
  211. <item>
  212. <title>Tasty Vegan Meals</title>
  213. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/tasty-vegan-meals-2/</link>
  214. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/tasty-vegan-meals-2/#respond</comments>
  216. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  217. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:33:44 +0000</pubDate>
  218. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  219. <category><![CDATA[Cruelty Free Food]]></category>
  220. <category><![CDATA[Dairy Free Delicious]]></category>
  221. <category><![CDATA[Eat More Plants]]></category>
  222. <category><![CDATA[Green Eats]]></category>
  223. <category><![CDATA[Healthy Eating]]></category>
  224. <category><![CDATA[Meatless Monday]]></category>
  225. <category><![CDATA[Plant based]]></category>
  226. <category><![CDATA[Tasty Vegan]]></category>
  227. <category><![CDATA[Vegan Comfort Food]]></category>
  228. <category><![CDATA[Vegan Cooking]]></category>
  229. <category><![CDATA[Vegan Life]]></category>
  230. <category><![CDATA[Vegan Meals]]></category>
  231. <category><![CDATA[Vegan Recipes]]></category>
  232. <category><![CDATA[Whole Food Plant Based]]></category>
  233. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=13016</guid>
  234.  
  235. <description><![CDATA[It’s been contended for years that not only is a vegan diet the most conscious diet one can follow, but many also believe that it is the ‘greenest’ diet. It’s important to remember and note, of course, that veganism is not simply a diet, it’s a lifestyle – and an awesome one, at that! Vegan [&#8230;]]]></description>
  236. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09fd3-chettinad_vegetable_biryani_recipe.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="13018" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/chettinad_vegetable_biryani_recipe/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09fd3-chettinad_vegetable_biryani_recipe.jpg" data-orig-size="640,427" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="Chettinad_Vegetable_Biryani_Recipe" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09fd3-chettinad_vegetable_biryani_recipe.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09fd3-chettinad_vegetable_biryani_recipe.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-13018 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09fd3-chettinad_vegetable_biryani_recipe.jpg?w=300&#038;h=200" alt="Image Dispicting a tasty vegan meal." width="300" height="200" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09fd3-chettinad_vegetable_biryani_recipe.jpg?w=300&amp;h=200 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09fd3-chettinad_vegetable_biryani_recipe.jpg?w=600&amp;h=400 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/09fd3-chettinad_vegetable_biryani_recipe.jpg?w=150&amp;h=100 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  237. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s been contended for years that not only is a vegan diet the most conscious diet one can follow, but many also believe that it is the ‘greenest’ diet. It’s important to remember and note, of course, that veganism is not simply a diet, it’s a lifestyle – and an awesome one, at that!</span></p>
  238. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Vegan cuisine forgoes the use of any animal product, or any product derived from animals whatsoever. This means not only eschewing meat, eggs, and dairy, but foods such as honey. Honey is made by bees; therefore, it belongs to the bees! Even without all these foods and food groups that are staple in the standard diet of omnivores, vegan cuisines are variable and delicious!</span></p>
  239. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">No matter which city you live in, you’re bound to have a wide variety of vegan or vegan friendly restaurants to choose from to have a lovely meal. All you have to do is a quick Google or check your local listings.</span></p>
  240. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Once you’ve chosen a place, you can go on a best-friend date with your mom and pet, and close friends, or something more intimate with your spouse and have a delicious creation.</span></p>
  241. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These foods are not only rich in vegetables and other health foods, but the lack of animal products means that they’re lower in fat, absent in cholesterol, and still piping with wonderful flavors!</span></p>
  242. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Once you’ve tasted of vegan splendors out on the town, you could (and should!) hit up the local health food store to pick up some ingredients for your own vegan feast. Maybe you’ll make it into a dinner party for work associates, or maybe you’ll bring a dish to a family dinner, but either way, you’ll be showing others that meatless, animal friendly meals are still yummy to the tummy!</span></p>
  243. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Finding a recipe to work with is easy. The internet is a wonderful resource with literally thousands of vegan food blogs to peruse. There are bound to be plenty that suit your palate, be it Indian comfort food such as my favorite Briyani, or even Thai delights! You can also check with your local food market vendors and ask what their favorite meat free recipes are.</span></p>
  244. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Once you have found your niche in vegan cooking, you can explore whole new venues in the vegan lifestyle. It may be certainly worth considering to eliminate more and more meat from more and more meals.</span></p>
  245. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Meatless Monday has been around forever, but why not make all dinners meatless? They are healthful and delicious without animal products!</span></p>
  246. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Once you get ready to step outside your comfort zone of vegan cuisine, the next place to look is a matter of choice.</span></p>
  247. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The options are out there, and they are all of them a matter of personal choice and selection! There are dozens of fantastic vegan cooking podcasts available to download for free, for instance, which can give you countless helpful tips in the kitchen, be it how to cook or how to properly slice your root veggies.</span></p>
  248. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Another option to explore are vegan and vegetarian cooking classes. These classes are often hosted at local community colleges and learning centers, and, for a fee, you can continue to expand your view of vegan cooking. It might be worth it to take a friend along—pay their fee as a small gift and allow them to also experience the joys of vegan cooking.</span></p>
  249. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Tasty, plant-based meals come in many shapes and sizes and span the breadth of a world of ethnic cuisines. Vegan sandwiches are a cheap, fun, quick, and easy meal to whip up after a long day at the office. You can even make them ‘build your own sandwiches’, and set up containers of chopped veggies, vegan protein sources, so you and your family can have fun coming up with your own unique and delectable combinations.</span></p>
  250. ]]></content:encoded>
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  263. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
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  267. <media:title type="html">Image Dispicting a tasty vegan meal.</media:title>
  268. </media:content>
  269. </item>
  270. <item>
  271. <title>To Thine Own Self Be True</title>
  272. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/to-thine-own-self-be-true/</link>
  273. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/to-thine-own-self-be-true/#respond</comments>
  275. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  276. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:25:31 +0000</pubDate>
  277. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  278. <category><![CDATA[Authentic Living]]></category>
  279. <category><![CDATA[Authenticity]]></category>
  280. <category><![CDATA[Be Yourself]]></category>
  281. <category><![CDATA[Emotional Intelligence]]></category>
  282. <category><![CDATA[Empower Yourself]]></category>
  283. <category><![CDATA[Inner Truth]]></category>
  284. <category><![CDATA[Integrity Matters]]></category>
  285. <category><![CDATA[Know thyself]]></category>
  286. <category><![CDATA[life]]></category>
  287. <category><![CDATA[Live Your Truth]]></category>
  288. <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
  289. <category><![CDATA[mindfulness]]></category>
  290. <category><![CDATA[Personal development]]></category>
  291. <category><![CDATA[personal growth]]></category>
  292. <category><![CDATA[Purpose Driven]]></category>
  293. <category><![CDATA[Self Discovery]]></category>
  294. <category><![CDATA[Self-awareness]]></category>
  295. <category><![CDATA[Self-improvement]]></category>
  296. <category><![CDATA[Stay True]]></category>
  297. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=13012</guid>
  298.  
  299. <description><![CDATA[&#160; This above all: to thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man. &#8212; Hamlet, Act 1, Scene 3 Laertes receives a great deal of advice from his father before leaving. This includes material on fiscal responsibility, the wisdom of [&#8230;]]]></description>
  300. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>&nbsp;</p>
  301. <p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/13809-belvedere_insp0221blk.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="13038" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/belvedere_insp0221blk/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/13809-belvedere_insp0221blk.jpg" data-orig-size="450,450" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="belvedere_insp0221blk" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/13809-belvedere_insp0221blk.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/13809-belvedere_insp0221blk.jpg?w=450" class="alignnone wp-image-13038 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/13809-belvedere_insp0221blk.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" alt="Image Dispicting To Thine Own Self Be True" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/13809-belvedere_insp0221blk.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/13809-belvedere_insp0221blk.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/13809-belvedere_insp0221blk.jpg 450w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  302. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This above all: to thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man. &#8212; Hamlet, Act 1, Scene 3</span></p>
  303. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Laertes receives a great deal of advice from his father before leaving. This includes material on fiscal responsibility, the wisdom of not speaking without first giving thought to what will be said, the difference between modesty and cowardice, and the importance of friendship. Above all of these things, Polonius places the importance of being true to one’s own nature.</span></p>
  304. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There is a great deal which can be learned from this simple statement. Regardless of what others may think, it is necessary for each individual to follow her or his own path. This is true for the simplest of things like dress and hair style and the larger things like setting goals for one’s life, education, and career. This can be one of the most difficult things to adhere to.</span></p>
  305. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Every person is an individual, yet everyone has a number of different factors which influence their day to day lives. We live in a world of social pressures. We all deal with expectations placed upon us by friends and family alike. While residing inside the confluence of these varied influences, we must create our own identities. In some ways these will be similar to those around us. In other ways they may be reactions to them. In still other ways the sense of self is unique to each individual in turn.</span></p>
  306. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Often, we do not realize the degree to which the creation of ourselves is a reaction to those around us. We mimic, either consciously or unconsciously, those we admire while rejecting those for whom we have no admiration. People often speak of &#8220;teen-age rebellion,&#8221; but this can be viewed as a societal reaction to the previous generation. In order to create their own identities, teens must decide if they will accept or reject the opinions and lifestyles of their parents. In so doing the create a common zeitgeist of clothing, hair, political opinions et. al. by which they are able to easily identify themselves as belonging to their peer group.</span></p>
  307. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">On a personal level, each individual must examine the opinions of their own social groups and decide which ones are in line with their own internal belief system. Life is a continual process of trying on new identities, keeping aspects of those which are comfortable, and discarding the rest.</span></p>
  308. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Over time one creates one’s own identity, becomes comfortable in their own lifestyle, creates and pursues their own goals. This can be extremely difficult, especially when one’s choices do not fit with those of the social groups with which they must interact. These social groups can be as small as their individual family units or close group of friends to the society as a whole.</span></p>
  309. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">What is important is that each individual strive for those things with which they feel most comfortable. Naturally, there are some limits which are placed upon everyone. Society places sanctions on some actions for the benefit of the populous. If one achieves pleasure from setting buildings on fire, it will be necessary for the individual in question to find some way to sublimate this drive and find a more constructive outlet.</span></p>
  310. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">No one can live for you, neither can you live another&#8217;s life. The news is filled with stories of parents who push their children to achieve goals which they themselves wish they had been able to attain at a young age. While this can create scholars, expert musicians, and star athletes, it is important for parents to recognize the importance of allowing their children to create their own identities during this crucial developmental period.</span></p>
  311. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Things do not necessarily become easier once an individual has constructed their own sense of self. Everyone encounters those who do not agree with their beliefs. At this point the individual must decide whether to remain true to themselves despite the discomfort or to give in to the tide of social pressure. While it may seem easier to conform, this is a betrayal of the individual&#8217;s essence. It may provide temporary relief from the unpleasantness of being regarded as &#8220;weird&#8221; or an outsider. In the long run, however, that individual will have to come to terms with the fact that he or she is not living their own life but someone else&#8217;s.</span></p>
  312. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In order to be truly happy, one must decide what one wants and make efforts to achieve it, regardless of the opinions of others. This may make things more difficult for a time, but when the individual achieves the goals in question, the rewards will be even greater.</span></p>
  313. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This does not mean to ignore the counsel of others. As noted above, there are some actions which are proscribed in any society. Sometimes these actions are forbidden because of a long-standing tradition which has since become outdated. People may then choose to ignore the societal prohibition against these actions in an effort to change the populous as a whole. For example, without those who were willing to throw off societal shackles, the United States would still be a place where only white, land-owning men had the right to vote. Difference can lead to progress.</span></p>
  314. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Similarly, it is possible to learn from each person that you encounter, even if you possess wildly different opinions on a number of subjects. It may be that the person you disagree with politically shares similar religious beliefs. The person who dresses differently may be able to provide you with advice on how to achieve one of your goals. If nothing else, the person may provide reasons which validate your own opinions.</span></p>
  315. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Even in the most rigid of societies, there is room for individuality. In a corporate world of gray suited people, colorful socks can be a minor sign of rebellion and individuality.</span></p>
  316. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Ultimately, each person must decide for her or himself what is right for her or his life. We all must create our own personalities by viewing the world around us and deciding what is important and what is not, what is right and what is not. Once this is done, we must strive to retain our senses of self, regardless of the opinions of others. This is the only way to achieve the goals you set for yourself and to be the person you want to be. All else, as Polonius intimates, is a lie.</span></p>
  317. ]]></content:encoded>
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  335. </media:content>
  336. </item>
  337. <item>
  338. <title>Displaced Animals</title>
  339. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/displaced-animals/</link>
  340. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/displaced-animals/#respond</comments>
  342. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  343. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 13:11:04 +0000</pubDate>
  344. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  345. <category><![CDATA[animal rescue]]></category>
  346. <category><![CDATA[animal welfare]]></category>
  347. <category><![CDATA[Biodiversity]]></category>
  348. <category><![CDATA[Climate Change]]></category>
  349. <category><![CDATA[Deforestation]]></category>
  350. <category><![CDATA[Displaced Animals]]></category>
  351. <category><![CDATA[Ecosystem Disruption]]></category>
  352. <category><![CDATA[Endangered Species]]></category>
  353. <category><![CDATA[Environmental impact]]></category>
  354. <category><![CDATA[Habitat Loss]]></category>
  355. <category><![CDATA[Human Wildlife Conflict]]></category>
  356. <category><![CDATA[Nature Protection]]></category>
  357. <category><![CDATA[Wildlife Awareness]]></category>
  358. <category><![CDATA[Wildlife Conservation]]></category>
  359. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=13008</guid>
  360.  
  361. <description><![CDATA[The news fill daily about displaced animals, abused animals, other types of animal cruelty as well as tainted breeders. It is frustrating and heartbreaking, but just what can you, one single creature fan, do about it? You&#8217;ll be able to save the lives of creatures that may assist in preventing misuse to more creatures by [&#8230;]]]></description>
  362. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/22db3-images-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="13010" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/images-4/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/22db3-images-1.jpg" data-orig-size="225,225" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="images" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/22db3-images-1.jpg?w=225" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/22db3-images-1.jpg?w=225" class="alignnone wp-image-13010 size-full" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/22db3-images-1.jpg?w=616" alt="Illustration dispicting Animals."   srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/22db3-images-1.jpg 225w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/22db3-images-1.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /></a></p>
  363. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The news fill daily about displaced animals, abused animals, other types of animal cruelty as well as tainted breeders. It is frustrating and heartbreaking, but just what can you, one single creature fan, do about it? You&#8217;ll be able to save the lives of creatures that may assist in preventing misuse to more creatures by becoming involved. And who is aware of what sort of style is going to be commenced by simply becoming involved. You can have in shielding against animal cruelty, the next significant notion. You are needed by the animals; will not you join the fight?</span></p>
  364. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Animal Planet is full of shows about people whose hearts have been in the correct areas as it pertains to their pets as well as creatures, but who are terribly off base on it that it&#8217;s frightening. From Animal Hoarders to Its Me or The Dog to The Pit Boss, the station is full of peeks in after being looked after by individuals who never have taken plenty of time to prepare themselves on the correct care of the pet to the circumstances creatures survive. Creatures require exercise and construction just as much as they need love and fondness. Move individuals you fall upon to prepare themselves about the right approach to take care of the creatures they keep as pets.</span></p>
  365. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Prepare Yourself as well as Get Involved</span></strong></p>
  366. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">From no-kill shelters to more difficult punitive measures for those that abuse animals &#8211; there are a lot of causes to throw fire and your support behind. The starting point in stopping and preventing animal cruelty would be to consider that it&#8217;s a fight worth fighting. The individuals you could bring to the cause as well as your participation help harshness-free lives live. Collectively we all really can make a difference.</span></p>
  367. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Cats and dogs in shelters may be confused and frightened and this can lead to a loss of the socialization. Pets that show a lack of societal skills are often passed over for adoption. By offering in the shelter and going to, you might be a favorable effect on the dogs and cats’ skills to have appropriate and adoring new dwellings.</span></p>
  368. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Saving groups commonly have been looking for assistance. Your help may be found in a variety of manners. Pets often want transportation to adoption occasions; they demand minders while at the group as well as the function wants someone to do house visits and to link to future owners. Again, just several hours can make a huge impact in the struggle against creatures that are displaced and abused animals.</span></p>
  369. ]]></content:encoded>
  371. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/displaced-animals/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  372. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  376. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/22db3-images-1.jpg" />
  377. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/22db3-images-1.jpg" medium="image">
  378. <media:title type="html">images</media:title>
  379. </media:content>
  380.  
  381. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  382. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  383. </media:content>
  384. </item>
  385. <item>
  386. <title>I am the Voice of the Voiceless</title>
  387. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/i-am-the-voice-of-the-voiceless/</link>
  388. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/i-am-the-voice-of-the-voiceless/#respond</comments>
  390. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  391. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 12:58:41 +0000</pubDate>
  392. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  393. <category><![CDATA[Activism]]></category>
  394. <category><![CDATA[Advocacy and Awareness]]></category>
  395. <category><![CDATA[Animal Advocacy]]></category>
  396. <category><![CDATA[changemaker]]></category>
  397. <category><![CDATA[Compassion in Action]]></category>
  398. <category><![CDATA[Conscious Living]]></category>
  399. <category><![CDATA[Empowering the Silenced]]></category>
  400. <category><![CDATA[Ethical living]]></category>
  401. <category><![CDATA[Human Rights]]></category>
  402. <category><![CDATA[Moral Responsibility]]></category>
  403. <category><![CDATA[Social Justice]]></category>
  404. <category><![CDATA[Speaking Out]]></category>
  405. <category><![CDATA[Standing for Justice]]></category>
  406. <category><![CDATA[Unheard Voices]]></category>
  407. <category><![CDATA[Voice For The Voiceless]]></category>
  408. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=13003</guid>
  409.  
  410. <description><![CDATA[In this world full of disintegration, disease, war, scam, betrayal and turmoil, Humanity should be our most prominent pursuit in life. If we don&#8217;t have one another, if we don&#8217;t share the bond of humanity and if we are not vaulted in this beautiful bond of humanity, we are nothing. Without humanity, this prolific bond [&#8230;]]]></description>
  411. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="13005" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp" data-orig-size="1440,1920" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp?w=225" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-13005 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp?w=225&#038;h=300" alt="Illustration dispicting speaking up for the Voiceless." width="225" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp?w=225&amp;h=300 225w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp?w=450&amp;h=600 450w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp?w=113&amp;h=150 113w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /></a></p>
  412. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In this world full of disintegration, disease, war, scam, betrayal and turmoil, Humanity should be our most prominent pursuit in life. If we don&#8217;t have one another, if we don&#8217;t share the bond of humanity and if we are not vaulted in this beautiful bond of humanity, we are nothing. Without humanity, this prolific bond and the prolific nature of the earth will be brought to a vicious end. Without humanity, so to speak, the Earth and the Mother Nature will be brought to their own demise. We need to procure and sustain the intricate and beguiling circle of life on this planet. That means protecting humans and animals both, and not only standing in the favor of one, because both of us come from the same place. We are all flesh and blood and we all need to give a supporting shoulder to the one standing by us to create the ongoing and incombustible circle of life. We need to pursue the notion of trust, happiness and sustenance.</span></p>
  413. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Every day in this huge world, thousands of people are bombed, shot, terrorized and killed. The ordinary man becomes the casualty of a quarrel between two forces of tremendous proportions, as compared to the ordinary man himself. But the ordinary man is not so ordinary; every creature with a beating heart, flesh and blood is an active pillar in sustaining this earth, and the importance of even a single soul is too important to be neglected or to let it go to profligacy. So to procure this bond of humanity there is a lot we can do, all we need to do is plant the seed of positivity.</span></p>
  414. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One might think that as an individual, it is a task of humongous proportions to help the entire world but once one brings change to self, the rest happens. If we change the environment around us, we will be affecting the minds and hearts of many people we interact with, thus inspiring them to do the same and perpetuating this endless cycle of helping one another. There is no such thing as a single person being too little for a huge task. It takes lots of small figures to make a huge difference, and every figure plays its own part. As individuals, we can indulge in small acts of charity. We can put a smile on someone&#8217;s face and manifest our humanity in a small gesture of humanity and devotion.</span></p>
  415. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Businesses and corporations can also play a vital part in this integral cause. First by bringing change within the corporation, by utilizing green and nature-friendly means of working, by being friendly and just to each and every worker and by donating. Businesses can also start campaigns, urging people to do charitable work, help others, protect animals and take part in essential and effective activities that boost the ideas of positivity, love and humanity. To make a mass impact, everything has to be started by bringing positivity to each and every soul. That can be done by adapting these things yourself; urge the people around you to do the same and later those people will urge the ones around them.</span></p>
  416. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A very famous quote of Henri Nouwen goes something like this: &#8220;Each day holds a surprise. But only if we expect it can we see, hear, or feel it when it comes to us. Let&#8217;s not be afraid to receive each day&#8217;s surprise, whether it comes to us as sorrow or as joy it will open a new place in our hearts, a place where we can welcome new friends and celebrate more fully our shared humanity.&#8221; This quote gives us an excellent perspective about how we need to look at life. We need to look up to every new day and make it better.</span></p>
  417. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If we do not take a stand for another person or animal then we can&#8217;t expect to have someone stand up for us. Empowerment and bravery should be our pursuits, but we should not forget about acceptance. Everyone has a flaw and everyone is different from one another. Instead of making fun or letting these people become outcasts, it is our moral obligation to accept each other despite of the differences in race, color, looks or personality and perpetuate positivity for everyone to become a good member of the community. Negativity is rooted in the scarcity of acceptance.</span></p>
  418. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If we ignore negativity, we are allowing it to spread. Instead of letting immoral and negative things dwell and transpire around us, we need to accept one another, be civil to others&#8217; identities and realize our purpose on this planet other than just following our basic instincts.</span></p>
  419. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Animals are also a big part of our world. In fact they play a more important role in sustaining the eco-system of this planet than humans do, in this era. Animals help keep certain things under control. Animals help spread forests and lend a very vital hand in further developing nature. In this food chain, each and every animal holds its own importance and helps keep control over the eco-system. If one animal is less in number, then the prey will increase in number, causing things to become unbalanced. Many examples of such incidents are present in human history when the killing of one animal has led to superfluous numbers of the other, thus bringing about utter destruction.</span></p>
  420. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The main point here is to pursue and perpetuate positivity, integrity and humanity, after that the possibilities are endless and ever profiting. There is nothing beyond the most basic bond of humanity we share. We are all made of the same things and placed in the same system.</span></p>
  421. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">We can only really bring about a change if we realize the importance of each and every living thing and make our voice heard by becoming the voice of the voiceless.</span></p>
  422. ]]></content:encoded>
  424. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/i-am-the-voice-of-the-voiceless/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  425. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  429. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp" />
  430. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp" medium="image">
  431. <media:title type="html">jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf</media:title>
  432. </media:content>
  433.  
  434. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  435. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  436. </media:content>
  437.  
  438. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/78b43-jvhjpv1u52tphms3jv2vrtbeepukrgfjjrkdo9ak40zdxhsf.webp?w=225&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  439. <media:title type="html">Illustration dispicting speaking up for the Voiceless.</media:title>
  440. </media:content>
  441. </item>
  442. <item>
  443. <title>All Animals Have Rights</title>
  444. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/all-animals-have-rights/</link>
  445. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/all-animals-have-rights/#respond</comments>
  447. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  448. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 12:47:50 +0000</pubDate>
  449. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  450. <category><![CDATA[Animal Advocacy]]></category>
  451. <category><![CDATA[Animal Ethics]]></category>
  452. <category><![CDATA[animal liberation]]></category>
  453. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  454. <category><![CDATA[animal welfare]]></category>
  455. <category><![CDATA[Compassion For Animals]]></category>
  456. <category><![CDATA[Cruelty-Free Living]]></category>
  457. <category><![CDATA[Ethical Treatment]]></category>
  458. <category><![CDATA[Humane Living]]></category>
  459. <category><![CDATA[Justice For Animals]]></category>
  460. <category><![CDATA[Legal Rights for Animals]]></category>
  461. <category><![CDATA[Respect for Life]]></category>
  462. <category><![CDATA[Sentient Beings]]></category>
  463. <category><![CDATA[Speciesism]]></category>
  464. <category><![CDATA[Voice For The Voiceless]]></category>
  465. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12997</guid>
  466.  
  467. <description><![CDATA[One of the oldest tenets in human civilization is the Golden Rule; it is expressed in virtually all religions, and is seen as one of the most fundamental truths. That is, do unto others as you would have them do unto you &#8212; or, in simpler terms &#8212; treat others as you would like to [&#8230;]]]></description>
  468. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/192f9-images.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="13000" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/images-3/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/192f9-images.jpg" data-orig-size="225,225" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="images" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/192f9-images.jpg?w=225" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/192f9-images.jpg?w=225" class="alignnone wp-image-13000 size-full" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/192f9-images.jpg?w=616" alt="Illustration dipicting different kinds of animals with rights."   srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/192f9-images.jpg 225w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/192f9-images.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /></a></p>
  469. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One of the oldest tenets in human civilization is the Golden Rule; it is expressed in virtually all religions, and is seen as one of the most fundamental truths. That is, do unto others as you would have them do unto you &#8212; or, in simpler terms &#8212; treat others as you would like to be treated. While the vast majority of people would agree with this sentiment, when it comes to the treatment of animals, only some find themselves able to extend this circle of compassion.</span></p>
  470. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">As a result, the animal rights movement has been an important step in ensuring that this sense of compassion is given to animals. So what are animal rights and why should animals have them? Quite simply, animal rights refers to the idea that all animals deserve to have control over their own lives, and that they should be able to live their lives free of human cruelty and exploitation. Every day, innocent creatures are subjected to unspeakable horrors at the hands of humans, often because there is something to be gained economically. Because animals are unable to advocate for themselves, it is up to humans to stand up for their protection. This is the basis of the animal rights movement.</span></p>
  471. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The animal rights movement is a social movement that seeks to eliminate the use of animals as property, and that questions the distinctions between humans and animals. It asks, are animals truly all that different from humans? Are they not simply other living creatures coexisting on this planet? And do they not deserve the right to thrive, just as we do? These are important philosophical questions that fuel the animal rights movement. Through activism and consciousness-raising, animal rights advocates fight for animal liberation in the political, economic, social, and even ideological realm.</span></p>
  472. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Animals are sentient and conscious creatures that demonstrate striking similarities to humans. Although they may not express them identically to humans, any pet owner can easily tell that each animal is unique, precious in its own identity, and its life should be cherished and protected. Many people believe that certain animals cannot feel pain, or because humans express higher intelligence than certain animals they should not be concerned about animal welfare, but these notions are easily refuted when we consider the cognitive and paradigmatic biases from which they arise.</span></p>
  473. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Speciesism is the discriminatory practice of giving certain rights and privileges to individuals based solely on the species group to which they belong. Like sexism, racism, or ageism, it is a flawed system of belief that does not take into account the basic rights to life that all animals deserve. Anthropocentrism is a similar term that denotes a set of beliefs that places humans above all other animals; again, it makes a moral distinction between humans and animals. Finally, sentiocentrism is the belief that if an animal cannot feel, sense, or experience the same things that a human can, then that animal should not be awarded the same status as a human. All of these belief systems are borne of a false sense of righteousness and entitlement. Once these cognitive biases are overcome, the reality that all animals do have rights becomes salient.</span></p>
  474. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Another right of animals that must be respected is the right to thrive in a clean, safe, and sustainable environment. It has grown increasingly clear that human behaviour has wreaked unprecedented havoc on some of the most sensitive ecosystems in the world, turning what used to be lush rainforests into flat plains, and bustling coral reefs into ocean wastelands. By destroying the environment for human gain, we are also destroying some of the only places our animal relatives can call home. Thus, the environmental or &#8216;green&#8217; movement is also closely linked with the animal rights movement. Because the two are inextricably connected, it is clear that in order to protect and ensure animal rights, we also have to become stewards of the earth and fight for environmental sustainability.</span></p>
  475. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The use of animals for products is perhaps one of the most disconcerting displays of human greed that has grown in popularity. When there is an economic incentive, many people disregard morality altogether. For example, poachers, shark finners, and black market participants often view animals solely as commodities. Quite disturbingly, the basic rights of a life are discarded and replaced with a dollar sign. Given that animals have the right to live free of suffering at the hands of humans, it is crucial that we consider the many viable alternatives to animal products. By voting with our dollars, so to speak, we can make an impact on the global animal trade. We must also hold those who manufacture animal products or conduct animal testing publicly accountable.</span></p>
  476. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Ultimately, animal rights activists have a strong sense of core beliefs guided by an unwavering morality. Some of the primary things that animal rights advocates believe are:</span></p>
  477. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">non-human animals are conscious beings, not machines or objects</span></p>
  478. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">non-human animals have interests of their own</span></p>
  479. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">human beings should respect the interests of non-human animals</span></p>
  480. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">human beings should not exploit non-human animals</span></p>
  481. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">human beings should not treat non-human animals as objects</span></p>
  482. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">human beings should not kill non-human animals</span></p>
  483. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Although the topic of animal rights is one that could span volumes, it is my sincere wish that this article has sparked some interest and will generate discussion about the basis of the animal rights movement and why it is important. I firmly believe that it is up to each of us to be courageous enough to stand up for animal rights, as it is a progressive movement that will ultimately result in a more compassionate and equitable world.</span></p>
  484. ]]></content:encoded>
  486. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/all-animals-have-rights/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  487. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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  493. <media:title type="html">images</media:title>
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  495.  
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  497. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  498. </media:content>
  499. </item>
  500. <item>
  501. <title>Veganism at Its Core Is Kindness</title>
  502. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/veganism-at-its-core-is-kindness/</link>
  503. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/veganism-at-its-core-is-kindness/#respond</comments>
  505. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  506. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 12:32:37 +0000</pubDate>
  507. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  508. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  509. <category><![CDATA[Compassionate living]]></category>
  510. <category><![CDATA[cruelty free]]></category>
  511. <category><![CDATA[Ethical Eating]]></category>
  512. <category><![CDATA[Justice For Animals]]></category>
  513. <category><![CDATA[kindness]]></category>
  514. <category><![CDATA[mindful eating]]></category>
  515. <category><![CDATA[Plant-Based Lifestyle]]></category>
  516. <category><![CDATA[Sustainable living]]></category>
  517. <category><![CDATA[Vegan Values]]></category>
  518. <category><![CDATA[Veganism]]></category>
  519. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12992</guid>
  520.  
  521. <description><![CDATA[With as much as it troubles me to say it, we all know it: There can be some pretty mean folks within the vegan community. I&#8217;ve met more than one person who prided themselves on being a &#8220;vegan elitist&#8221; who publically shamed other vegans in online forums for their choices. I&#8217;ve visited this forum, and [&#8230;]]]></description>
  522. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="12995" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg" data-orig-size="500,322" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg?w=500" class="alignnone wp-image-12995 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg?w=300&#038;h=193" alt="Image of vanilla and chocolate sundae dispicting veganism." width="300" height="193" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg?w=300&amp;h=193 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg?w=150&amp;h=97 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  523. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">With as much as it troubles me to say it, we all know it: There can be some pretty mean folks within the vegan community. I&#8217;ve met more than one person who prided themselves on being a &#8220;vegan elitist&#8221; who publically shamed other vegans in online forums for their choices. I&#8217;ve visited this forum, and a lot of this is bashing celebrities who give up the vegan lifestyle for whatever reason, which truly is none of our business, and, seemingly as often as they can, linking to the pages of other vegans and criticizing them so harshly for things that, again, are none of their business.</span></p>
  524. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I don&#8217;t have to tell you how so many people feel about the vegan community, and the assumptions that they make about us as a group. Some folks just know that every vegan is sanctimonious and hung up in the smallest details of what makes a real vegan and what constitutes a person to ridicule and castigate. One such instance that I saw ruthlessly tore a woman apart for having a companion animal. Another generated much vitriol because a vegan gave their chicken&#8217;s eggs to someone else. I&#8217;m of course not interested in getting into whether either of those things are &#8220;okay&#8221; or make or break someone&#8217;s veganism. My point more or less rests on, well, how very unkind such behavior is and can be, and isn&#8217;t our entire cause rooted in kindness?</span></p>
  525. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">As vegans, we loathe the horrifying treatment our fellow creatures suffer at the hands of human beings. We loathe the way that we treat our planet, and fear the repercussions of our actions. We want to be good and kind and to spread a message of loving kindness throughout this world and the universe. How come, then, it sometimes becomes so difficult to do so?</span></p>
  526. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I won&#8217;t claim to be perfect, either. I&#8217;ve had moments of disgust where a friend tells me that they just don&#8217;t care about animal suffering, because it doesn&#8217;t stack up higher than how much they enjoy the taste of flesh. I know that veganism would probably save my grandfather from much of his health maladies, and probably some spiritual ones, too, but he holds steadfast to the way he wants to live his life, which is not for me to decide for him. Veganism is a personal choice, it is a conscious decision, and it is one borne of kindness and love. How can we so often forget to apply this logic to other people, as well?</span></p>
  527. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I think it&#8217;s time we all carefully considered our attitudes toward other vegans, vegetarians, omnivores, and everyone in between. We can encourage, but we should never shame. These are perfectly different concepts. One is inspirational, where one is designed to hurt, and we cannot hope to change the world by spreading negative vibes. Our message of love, kindness, and goodwill to all should be one that catches on to others joyfully. How we represent veganism as its ambassadors makes all the difference in the world.</span></p>
  528. ]]></content:encoded>
  530. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/veganism-at-its-core-is-kindness/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  531. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  535. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg" />
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  537. <media:title type="html">a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24</media:title>
  538. </media:content>
  539.  
  540. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  541. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  542. </media:content>
  543.  
  544. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3fb26-a38e765a2be6e04b53c5ffe4c7ef6e24.jpg?w=300&#038;h=193" medium="image">
  545. <media:title type="html">Image of vanilla and chocolate sundae dispicting veganism.</media:title>
  546. </media:content>
  547. </item>
  548. <item>
  549. <title>The Interpersonal Politics of Food</title>
  550. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/the-interpersonal-politics-of-food/</link>
  551. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/the-interpersonal-politics-of-food/#respond</comments>
  553. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  554. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Apr 2025 12:24:41 +0000</pubDate>
  555. <category><![CDATA[foods]]></category>
  556. <category><![CDATA[Activism]]></category>
  557. <category><![CDATA[Cultural Identity]]></category>
  558. <category><![CDATA[Eating and Identity]]></category>
  559. <category><![CDATA[Food and Power]]></category>
  560. <category><![CDATA[Food and Relationships]]></category>
  561. <category><![CDATA[Food as Communication]]></category>
  562. <category><![CDATA[Food Inequality]]></category>
  563. <category><![CDATA[Food Politics]]></category>
  564. <category><![CDATA[Food Systems]]></category>
  565. <category><![CDATA[Gender and Food]]></category>
  566. <category><![CDATA[Interpersonal Dynamics]]></category>
  567. <category><![CDATA[palestine]]></category>
  568. <category><![CDATA[politics]]></category>
  569. <category><![CDATA[Power Structures in Food]]></category>
  570. <category><![CDATA[Race and Food]]></category>
  571. <category><![CDATA[Social Justice]]></category>
  572. <category><![CDATA[writing]]></category>
  573. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12913</guid>
  574.  
  575. <description><![CDATA[No, I don&#8217;t mean this one in the wider sense of the politics of animal testing, factory farming, and other senseless events that make my heart heavy. Things like these are the reasons, among many others, that I proudly call myself a vegan, and have for many years now. I have met and made vegan [&#8230;]]]></description>
  576. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="12990" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/dp4qzzfx0aal0dd/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg" data-orig-size="640,427" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="Dp4QzzFX0AAl0dd" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-12990 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg?w=300&#038;h=200" alt="Image of pancakes and blueberries dipicting food." width="300" height="200" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg?w=300&amp;h=200 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg?w=600&amp;h=400 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg?w=150&amp;h=100 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  577. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">No, I don&#8217;t mean this one in the wider sense of the politics of animal testing, factory farming, and other senseless events that make my heart heavy. Things like these are the reasons, among many others, that I proudly call myself a vegan, and have for many years now. I have met and made vegan friends since I made the transition myself, and certainly vegetarians and assorted other members of the conscious eating family. I have not, however, known anyone from my pre-vegan (or pregan, ha!) life who stopped eating animals. Nada. Zilch.</span></p>
  578. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Strangely enough, people who I thought were perfectly logical individuals began to treat me very differently around the time that I changed my own life, and some even became downright nasty toward me. Even my closest friends seemed unable to resist making comments that were completely unprovoked, such as making a point to tell me that they would be eating an extra rare steak on my behalf. You may ask yourself now what sort of friend would make such an unnecessary comment completely out of the blue, and I struggled to find my patience with them then, too.</span></p>
  579. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Since then, things have changed. It&#8217;s been many years, as I said, and while I stopped communicating with one or two people, unfortunately, for how very unfairly and cruelly they could act toward me at sometimes simply for knowing that I was a vegan, I have remained friends with the people I have always loved. I still get the occasional &#8220;I just love cheese so much&#8221; sort of comment, but nothing truly malicious or meant to be a challenge to my core beliefs.</span></p>
  580. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Even now, though, and I have thought about this a lot since a recent dinner I hosted at my home, there is a strange behavior held by many of my friends about the food that I cook. My friends all respect that I am not the sort of vegan who will purchase and cook a cut of meat, and no one complains about my delicious veggie pizzas or pastas or enormous, mouth-watering salads. They ooh and aah at the colorful array of foods arranged so carefully on my dining room table, and I have to smile at myself and give myself a nice big, mental pat on the back as they sit down and begin pouring themselves drinks. It&#8217;s a nice feeling when you can make good, wholesome vegan fare for omnivores, isn&#8217;t it?</span></p>
  581. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It seems entirely strange to me, then, that meat alternatives are met with such disgust. Not long ago, I brought some homemade lunch to a mini-picnic with my friend and one of my containers had a stir-fry in it. As we&#8217;re inclined to share, my friend went on and on about how delicious it smelled, how appetizing it looked, but paused and asked if those were little bits of meat in the stir-fry. I told her no, it was actually seasoned tofu, and you would have thought I told her it was toenails. Food for thought, right?</span></p>
  582. ]]></content:encoded>
  584. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/04/15/the-interpersonal-politics-of-food/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  585. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  589. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg" />
  590. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg" medium="image">
  591. <media:title type="html">Dp4QzzFX0AAl0dd</media:title>
  592. </media:content>
  593.  
  594. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  595. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  596. </media:content>
  597.  
  598. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e4827-dp4qzzfx0aal0dd.jpg?w=300&#038;h=200" medium="image">
  599. <media:title type="html">Image of pancakes and blueberries dipicting food.</media:title>
  600. </media:content>
  601. </item>
  602. <item>
  603. <title>Child Abuse Is A Worldwide Problem</title>
  604. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/child-abuse-is-a-worldwide-problem/</link>
  605. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/child-abuse-is-a-worldwide-problem/#respond</comments>
  607. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  608. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:01:28 +0000</pubDate>
  609. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  610. <category><![CDATA[Child Abuse Awareness]]></category>
  611. <category><![CDATA[Child Advocacy]]></category>
  612. <category><![CDATA[Child Safety]]></category>
  613. <category><![CDATA[End Child Maltreatment]]></category>
  614. <category><![CDATA[Prevent Child Abuse]]></category>
  615. <category><![CDATA[Protect Children]]></category>
  616. <category><![CDATA[Safeguard Our Future]]></category>
  617. <category><![CDATA[Speak Up For Children]]></category>
  618. <category><![CDATA[Stop Child Abuse]]></category>
  619. <category><![CDATA[Support Child Victims]]></category>
  620. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12867</guid>
  621.  
  622. <description><![CDATA[Child sexual abuse is difficult to define concisely. It takes many forms, and there are complex layers of the type of abuse to which a child may be subjected; the causes for such abuse are equally complex, as socio-economic and demographic quotients are often involved. Generally speaking, however, child sexual abuse occurs when an adult [&#8230;]]]></description>
  623. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/dsfdrere-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="12872" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/dsfdrere-2/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/058b4-dsfdrere-1-e1743693547882.jpg" data-orig-size="292,307" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="dsfdrere" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/058b4-dsfdrere-1-e1743693547882.jpg?w=285" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/058b4-dsfdrere-1-e1743693547882.jpg?w=292" class="alignnone wp-image-12872 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/058b4-dsfdrere-1-e1743693547882.jpg?w=285&#038;h=300" alt="Illustration dipcting child abuse prevention." width="285" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/058b4-dsfdrere-1-e1743693547882.jpg?w=285&amp;h=300 285w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/058b4-dsfdrere-1-e1743693547882.jpg?w=143&amp;h=150 143w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/058b4-dsfdrere-1-e1743693547882.jpg 292w" sizes="(max-width: 285px) 100vw, 285px" /></a></p>
  624. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Child sexual abuse is difficult to define concisely. It takes many forms, and there are complex layers of the type of abuse to which a child may be subjected; the causes for such abuse are equally complex, as socio-economic and demographic quotients are often involved.</span></p>
  625. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Generally speaking, however, child sexual abuse occurs when an adult coerces a child into some form of sexual activity. It might include fondling of the genitals, masturbation in front of the child, oral-genital contact, digital penetration, or vaginal or anal penetration. In addition, any form of non-contact sexual activity also constitutes sexual abuse of a child, such as exposure, voyeurism, child pornography, etc.</span></p>
  626. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Child prostitution, child pornography, and trafficking of children for sexual purposes also fall under the purview of sexual abuse of a child. While they will be addressed specifically later in the discussion, it is beyond doubt that child sexual abuse has reached alarming proportions globally and needs to be addressed immediately.</span></p>
  627. <div class="adsplat">
  628. <div id="aswift_1_host"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">While accurate statistics are difficult to obtain on the subject due to under-reporting and also the lack of a streamlined definition as to what constitutes sexual abuse of children, some studies have managed to shed light on the prevalence of the problem. According to a study published in <a title="--" href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/24282867_The_prevalence_of_child_sexual_abuse_in_community_and_student_samples_A_meta-analysis_Clinical_Psychology_Review_29_328-338" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><i>Clinical Psychology Review</i> in 2009</a>, 19.7% of female and 7.9% of male children are abused sexually on a global scale. This data is based on 65 studies from 22 countries, so there may be more children who are exposed to sexual abuse.</span></div>
  629. </div>
  630. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">According to further studies, in most cases, child sexual abuse offenders are close to the children, such as brothers, fathers, uncles, aunts, sisters, cousins, neighbors, friends, and so on. Only 10% of the offenders are strangers, completely unknown to the victims. In addition, most offenders are male, though female offenders have been recorded.</span></p>
  631. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Needless to say, when the victim of sexual abuse is a child, the trauma increases manifold. The physical aspect of it is horrifying enough &#8212; internal lacerations, bleeding, damage to internal organs, even death &#8212; but the psychological damage is often devastating as well.</span></p>
  632. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Traumatic stress, which includes stress induced by sexual abuse, can cause changes in the development and functioning of the brain. Children exposed to sexual abuse often show behavioral problems such as separation anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, or worse. This is even more damaging when children are exposed to other stressful environmental factors such as parents who are substance abusers, poverty, etc. Sexual abuse in those cases comes as an add-on to the other stressors.</span></p>
  633. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Child prostitution is one of the evils of society, which pervades globally. It is usually conducted in organized ways, in particular environments such as brothels, bars, and clubs, or in a particular zone of a city. The organizations may be locally controlled and small, or large and internationally spread through criminal networks. In the unorganized sector, children may be coerced to prostitute themselves in exchange for goods or favors, such as good marks in school. They might turn to prostitution due to limited economic resources, or they may raise cash for substance abuse.</span></p>
  634. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">As mentioned earlier, child sexual abuse is not linear in nature but layered and complex. However, in every instance, the point is that children are pushed by social structures and individuals into circumstances where adults might take sexual advantage of them. Sometimes, a child might turn to prostitution coming from a sexually abusive home. Statistically speaking, almost 10 million children are engaged in prostitution worldwide.</span></p>
  635. <div class="google-auto-placed ap_container">
  636. <div id="aswift_7_host"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Often girls as young as ten to twelve are involved in the sex industry, particularly in Southeast Asia, though it is a trend found in every corner of the globe. A child prostitute may typically have sex 10 to 15 times a day, and sometimes this number goes up as high as 20 to 30. They are held under conditions resembling slavery &#8212; they are often tortured, beaten, and forced into submission by depriving them of food and water. They are often drugged to gain control, potentially turning them to be abusers in the long term. Children often have to bear the burden of unwanted pregnancies, not to mention social ostracism, depression, fear, low self-esteem, sense of degradation, and humiliation.</span></div>
  637. </div>
  638. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Another act associated with child sexual abuse is child pornography &#8212; production, possession, or distribution of pornography that depicts children. According to Aveeda Goyanko (<i>Child Pornography Statistics</i>, assessed April 28, 2009 in George Mason University), 40% of those who possessed child pornography had also sexually victimized children. Child pornography is a multi-billion-dollar business globally. The Internet is the main platform for child pornography, hosting domains as high as more than ten thousand by the year 2006.</span></p>
  639. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">According to another protector of children&#8217;s rights, attorney Andrew Vachss, child pornography is such a lucrative business that it is no longer restricted to pedophiles. The ratio between risk and gain is too favorable, as is the return on the investment. Most victims of child pornography are brought into the field through their caregivers at some level. Therefore, the risk of capture is low and this gives the crime syndicate an incentive. Once an image is taken, it can be mass-produced through copying; even destroying the original copy does not help as the Internet can always preserve a copy. In most countries, penalties for child pornography fail to act as a deterrent.</span></p>
  640. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">According to UNICEF, every year 1.2 million children are trafficked in addition to the millions already held captive by trafficking; the average age of a child being trafficked is 12 to 14 years, and approximately 30 million children have lost their childhood over the last 30 years through sexual exploitation. Sex trafficking is defined by commercial sex acts coerced by fraud, intimidation or other means, and when the victim is below 18 years of age this constitutes child sex trafficking. As with other forms of child sexual abuse, this too has complex reasons for its widespread perpetration.</span></p>
  641. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The first and most singular cause is poverty, followed by gender discrimination and war or armed conflict (armed rebels often abduct children and use them for varied purposes including sex).</span></p>
  642. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Structural inequities in society give rise to sexual abuse of children in its many forms, and trafficking is no exception. As the sexual entertainment industry expands, so does the scope for child trafficking for sexual purposes. In some societies, children are trafficked for personal services, including marriage. In order to maximize the profit margin and minimize the risk factor, workers who are the most vulnerable are chosen.</span></p>
  643. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Children are naturally vulnerable, and if they are impoverished, then they become the target for such devices very easily. They are the most controllable and exploitable. Sometimes children are not trafficked for the purpose of sexual entertainment but they fall prey to that through persuasion, threat, or torture. Pimps, employers, and other child sexual offenders often force and coerce children into the domain of sex industry. Thus, a child might migrate from one commercial purpose to that of the sex industry. At each point of trafficking, however, there will be an adult who will make a profit out of this.</span></p>
  644. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">No child can want to be part of exploitation, be it sexual or otherwise. They are intimidated by the adult world to participate, be it through pornography, prostitution or child trafficking. A child is simply not capable, emotionally or otherwise, to fight back, and it is the duty of societies to take care of each single child and ensure protection against such evil exploitation of the innocent. As a global phenomenon, it will require concerted efforts and transnational cooperation between governments to eradicate child sexual abuse for good.</span></p>
  645. ]]></content:encoded>
  647. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/child-abuse-is-a-worldwide-problem/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
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  658. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
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  660.  
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  662. <media:title type="html">Illustration dipcting child abuse prevention.</media:title>
  663. </media:content>
  664. </item>
  665. <item>
  666. <title>Introduction to Animal Activism 101</title>
  667. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/introduction-to-animal-activism-101/</link>
  668. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/introduction-to-animal-activism-101/#respond</comments>
  670. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  671. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:42:29 +0000</pubDate>
  672. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  673. <category><![CDATA[Act For Animals]]></category>
  674. <category><![CDATA[Animal Activism 101]]></category>
  675. <category><![CDATA[Animal Advocacy]]></category>
  676. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  677. <category><![CDATA[animal welfare]]></category>
  678. <category><![CDATA[Be Their Voice]]></category>
  679. <category><![CDATA[Combating animal cruelty]]></category>
  680. <category><![CDATA[Compassionate living]]></category>
  681. <category><![CDATA[End Animal Cruelty]]></category>
  682. <category><![CDATA[Protect Animals]]></category>
  683. <category><![CDATA[Protecting animal rights]]></category>
  684. <category><![CDATA[Speak Up For Animals]]></category>
  685. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12862</guid>
  686.  
  687. <description><![CDATA[So, you&#8217;ve heard about them before. The crazy people who allegedly throw paint on women in nice fur coats and picket and riot for the rights of animals who are used to test things like cosmetics. What&#8217;s so wrong with smearing a little lipstick on a monkey, right? This is the exact type of attitude [&#8230;]]]></description>
  688. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7b64f-6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="11087" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7b64f-6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1.jpg" data-orig-size="478,478" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7 (1)" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7b64f-6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7b64f-6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1.jpg?w=478" class="alignnone wp-image-11087 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7b64f-6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" alt="Illustration dispicting Animal Activism." width="300" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7b64f-6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7b64f-6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7b64f-6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1.jpg 478w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  689. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">So, you&#8217;ve heard about them before. The crazy people who allegedly throw paint on women in nice fur coats and picket and riot for the rights of animals who are used to test things like cosmetics. What&#8217;s so wrong with smearing a little lipstick on a monkey, right?</span></p>
  690. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This is the exact type of attitude that animal rights activists want to educate people against and change. The truth is that the monkey being experimented on with cosmetics is still a living, breathing creature. He feels pain and fear, and most certainly does in the unspeakable conditions that he lives in. Every day, he is subjected to tests that confuse and frighten him, and his human handlers likely leave very much to be wanted. While our monkey friend likely needs comforting and soothing, he is simply shoved into a numbered cage to await his next hour of torture and fright.</span></p>
  691. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This is the dirty truth behind why it is wrong to test on animals, even something as seemingly innocuous as lipstick. The animal, while being a sentient creature, cannot consent to such treatment, and protests it by acting out and crying for help. The fact that we are larger and capable of caging our monkey friend does not make it right to do so.</span></p>
  692. <div class="adsplat"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><ins class="adsbygoogle">This is the world of animal activism, the noble fight to end the suffering of animals such as the sweet monkey at the cosmetics factory. This is why people take time out of their day to strive for better treatment for animals.</ins></span></div>
  693. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you&#8217;re interested in helping animals, but do not know exactly where to start, there are tons of small steps you can take in your everyday life to ensure a better world for our fellow earthlings. For instance, something as small and easy as recycling plastics and other resources has huge impact not only on the environment, but on animal welfare. Litter destroys the natural habitats of animals and endangers their lives.</span></p>
  694. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Another way that you can help animals is to simply refuse to patronize product lines that use animals in their creation or test on animals. More and more companies are going cruelty-free, and such products are labeled. Supporting companies that don&#8217;t use animal products or test on animals encourages other companies to cease their inhumane experimentation and testing on animals. If you are a college or high school student, you can write a letter and perhaps start a petition with your peers to have vegan or vegetarian options added to the school menus.</span></p>
  695. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You don&#8217;t necessarily have to be on the front lines to fight for the rights of animals, you simply have to be a conscious, caring individual. Call your local animal shelter and see if they take donations of food for the animals that live there. See about adopting a pet from the shelter for you and your family to love and enjoy. Every little bit helps.</span></p>
  696. ]]></content:encoded>
  698. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/introduction-to-animal-activism-101/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  699. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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  705. <media:title type="html">IMG_1895</media:title>
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  707.  
  708. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  709. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  710. </media:content>
  711.  
  712. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/7b64f-6a4741358f9be607fb34682f418ac3a7-1.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  713. <media:title type="html">Illustration dispicting Animal Activism.</media:title>
  714. </media:content>
  715. </item>
  716. <item>
  717. <title>The Time to Help Animals is Now: The Groundbreaking Film Cry of the Innocent Makes Us Think Before We Buy</title>
  718. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/the-time-to-help-animals-is-now-the-groundbreaking-film-cry-of-the-innocent-makes-us-think-before-we-buy/</link>
  719. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/the-time-to-help-animals-is-now-the-groundbreaking-film-cry-of-the-innocent-makes-us-think-before-we-buy/#respond</comments>
  721. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  722. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:23:09 +0000</pubDate>
  723. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  724. <category><![CDATA[Addressing inhumane treatment of animals]]></category>
  725. <category><![CDATA[Animal Advocacy]]></category>
  726. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  727. <category><![CDATA[Compassionate Consumerism]]></category>
  728. <category><![CDATA[Cry Of The Innocent]]></category>
  729. <category><![CDATA[Cry of the Innocent documentary]]></category>
  730. <category><![CDATA[Encouraging ethical treatment of animals]]></category>
  731. <category><![CDATA[Ethical considerations in fashion purchasing]]></category>
  732. <category><![CDATA[Ethical Fashion]]></category>
  733. <category><![CDATA[Exposing fur trade cruelty]]></category>
  734. <category><![CDATA[Fur Trade Awareness]]></category>
  735. <category><![CDATA[Impact of consumer choices on animals]]></category>
  736. <category><![CDATA[Promoting compassionate consumer habits]]></category>
  737. <category><![CDATA[Protect Innocent Lives]]></category>
  738. <category><![CDATA[Raising awareness about animal suffering]]></category>
  739. <category><![CDATA[Stop Animal Cruelty]]></category>
  740. <category><![CDATA[Supporting animal welfare through informed decisions]]></category>
  741. <category><![CDATA[Think Before You Buy]]></category>
  742. <category><![CDATA[Voice For The Voiceless]]></category>
  743. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12857</guid>
  744.  
  745. <description><![CDATA[It has been said that all art seeks to explore and understand the human condition. What distinguishes us as humans? How do we differ from our fellow animal companions? Is it our proclivity for self-reflexivity, our ability to acknowledge our place in the universe, and our endless desire to expand our knowledge? Perhaps. Yet, it [&#8230;]]]></description>
  746. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="9058" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/scale/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp" data-orig-size="792,456" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="scale" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-9058 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp?w=300&#038;h=173" alt="Animals: Cry of the Innocent. An image of an innocent cat looking hauntling at the camera." width="300" height="173" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp?w=300&amp;h=173 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp?w=600&amp;h=346 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp?w=150&amp;h=86 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  747. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It has been said that all art seeks to explore and understand the human condition. What distinguishes us as humans? How do we differ from our fellow animal companions? Is it our proclivity for self-reflexivity, our ability to acknowledge our place in the universe, and our endless desire to expand our knowledge? Perhaps. Yet, it is my firm conviction that it is our inherent drive for empathy that is what renders us truly humane. It is this aspect of our consciousness that director Kathleen Lowson wants us to explore, and her film Cry of the Innocent: The Voices That Can’t Speak is a call to action, urging us to ask and answer the question: who are you wearing?</span></p>
  748. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Taking a unique soul perspective, the film is a psychological and spiritual study of the human condition focusing on the cruelty, absurdity, and frivolity of the modern fur trade. This unnecessary practice is a symptom, a sign that as a species, we are in need of elevating our consciousness, expanding it such that all life forms are treated with the dignity, love, and respect they deserve. Lowson impresses upon the viewer that “when we disconnect from the suffering of sentient beings, we disconnect from our own suffering.” This is a statement that merits deep reflection, as her words could not ring more true.</span></p>
  749. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">What makes this film so accessible and unique in its approach is that it does not employ shocking and gruesome imagery to communicate its message; rather, it unveils the reality of these innocent animals. It asks the viewer difficult questions, inspiring us to delve beyond our egos and into the deeper aspects of our psyches, to demand why it is that we as a species have tolerated the abuse and slaughter of animals in the name of fashion and temporary economic gain. It illuminates the reality that we have little to gain from such deplorable acts, and so, so much to lose. Namely, if we cannot recognize the pain and irreparable damage that occurs when we so callously end the life of an innocent, not only to the animal, but to our own humanity, how can we hope to bring about true peace and change in this world?</span></p>
  750. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Lowson delivers this message with a conscious, gentle, and philosophical touch. She presents the viewer with the disturbing reality that countless animals must endure at the hands of certain humans. The film begins with the Canadian seal “hunt,” the largest mass slaughter of marine mammals in the world. Appallingly, it is subsidized by the Canadian government, bringing Kathleen to encourage us to boycott the Canadian seafood industry. By empowering an industry that profits from death and cruelty to animals, we are only perpetuating a stagnation of the human spirit, rather than stimulating its growth.</span></p>
  751. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">She also brings to light the deplorable and unspeakably repugnant conditions in China, where dogs and cats are killed for their fur to create trinkets and trim on clothing. It may come as surprising to some readers, but Lowson stresses that even items labelled as “faux fur” or “synthetic fur” may actually be dog and cat fur. Depicting these beautiful creatures crammed by the dozen into stifling cages, these images are heartbreaking and difficult to watch, but it is crucial that we open our eyes to the horrific crimes that take place in these fur factories. Kathleen Lowson calls on each of us to question why we invest in China, and to demand that laws be put in place to protect these vulnerable and defenseless animals who are unable to speak for themselves.</span></p>
  752. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Over 50 million animals, from baby seals, dogs, cats, foxes, minks, rabbits, raccoons, and other innocent creatures are killed in the name of profit and fashion. And due to the globalization of the fur trade, it is virtually impossible to know the countries in which fur products are made. Even if a fur garment’s label says it was made in a European country, it is likely that the animals were raised and slaughtered elsewhere; in a majority of the cases, on an unregulated Chinese fur farm. These facts make clear the urgency of establishing laws that will put an end to these acts of cruelty, abuse, and murder. The time to help animals is now, and Cry of the Innocent: The Voices that Can’t Speak is a monumental film and call to action that is a magnificent contribution to the animal rights movement.</span></p>
  753. ]]></content:encoded>
  755. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/the-time-to-help-animals-is-now-the-groundbreaking-film-cry-of-the-innocent-makes-us-think-before-we-buy/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  756. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  760. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp" />
  761. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp" medium="image">
  762. <media:title type="html">scale</media:title>
  763. </media:content>
  764.  
  765. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  766. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  767. </media:content>
  768.  
  769. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4fdf8-scale.webp?w=300&#038;h=173" medium="image">
  770. <media:title type="html">Animals: Cry of the Innocent. An image of an innocent cat looking hauntling at the camera.</media:title>
  771. </media:content>
  772. </item>
  773. <item>
  774. <title>Shine the Light</title>
  775. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/shine-the-light/</link>
  776. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/shine-the-light/#respond</comments>
  778. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  779. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:14:50 +0000</pubDate>
  780. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  781. <category><![CDATA[Advocacy for both human and animal welfare]]></category>
  782. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  783. <category><![CDATA[Collaborative efforts in human and animal advocacy]]></category>
  784. <category><![CDATA[Compassion Without Borders]]></category>
  785. <category><![CDATA[End Speciesism]]></category>
  786. <category><![CDATA[Equality and justice for all beings]]></category>
  787. <category><![CDATA[Equality For All]]></category>
  788. <category><![CDATA[Human Rights]]></category>
  789. <category><![CDATA[Justice For Humans And Animals]]></category>
  790. <category><![CDATA[One Struggle One Fight]]></category>
  791. <category><![CDATA[Protect The Vulnerable]]></category>
  792. <category><![CDATA[Stand Up For Rights]]></category>
  793. <category><![CDATA[Unified For Change]]></category>
  794. <category><![CDATA[Unified movements for social change]]></category>
  795. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12852</guid>
  796.  
  797. <description><![CDATA[It’s no secret that we all live in times of dire violence and destruction. One need only turn on the evening news to hear atrocious stories of people abusing animals, husbands murdering wives, children horrifically abused or neglected, riots in the streets of heavily urbanized areas, and other unfortunate tragedies. It is remarkably easy to [&#8230;]]]></description>
  798. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8237" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/img_1889/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png" data-orig-size="612,612" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="IMG_1889" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png?w=612" class="alignnone wp-image-8237" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png?w=250&#038;h=250" alt="Shine the Light: Image of a shining light with the words &quot;Love never fails&quot; " width="250" height="250" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png?w=250&amp;h=250 250w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png?w=500&amp;h=500 500w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png?w=300&amp;h=300 300w" sizes="(max-width: 250px) 100vw, 250px" /></a></p>
  799. <article class="article-main relative flex-grow pulse">
  800. <div class="article-main__content max-w-[744px]">
  801. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s no secret that we all live in times of dire violence and destruction. One need only turn on the evening news to hear atrocious stories of people abusing animals, husbands murdering wives, children horrifically abused or neglected, riots in the streets of heavily urbanized areas, and other unfortunate tragedies. It is remarkably easy to allow ourselves to become desensitized to these violent acts; indeed, what seemed horrific ten years ago might seem so very quaint today. Where does all of this come from? How have we, as a people, become so cavalier, so devastatingly accepting of evil acts and deeds perpetrated by our fellow man? Where does all of this end? </span></p>
  802. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">When do we finally say, enough is enough?</span></p>
  803. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">We teach our children by our silence. Through our lack of outrage, our kids become passively indoctrinated to look the other way and simply be grateful that nothing has happened to them. We’ve turned our backs on one another, in large part, and our world is shrinking as we lose the ability to feel warmth and love and empathy for our neighbors. What about those other children, though? What about those children on the news that are so ‘politely’ tucked away into the corners of our minds? Are they not valuable human beings, too?</span></p>
  804. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Unfortunately, because it is so terrifying and horrific, many are willing to turn a blind eye and deaf ear to the shocking issue of human trafficking, even when those humans are small, innocent children. Many have adopted the ‘better them than me’ attitude and ignore the sums and figures, but today, we’re dealing with facts, not fantasies. We’re dealing with the millions of individuals, children of all ages, sizes, genders, races, and backgrounds, sold into slavery, sometimes for labor, sometimes for sin, sometimes for other unspeakable practices, who are forgotten every single year. This is the real news, not the latest celebrity antics. The children and adults sold and trafficked every day are valuable for their status as living beings, period, not for the dollar sign attached to their torment.</span></p>
  805. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Of course, we’re desperate to turn a blind eye to the suffering of our most faithful companions. This cognitive dissonance has led to the suffering of incalculable animals all across the globe, and the figure rises to frightening totals with each day that passes. We speak not only of the detestable practices of animal testing, vivisection, fur faming and the rampant crimes constantly excused in the meat industry, but the things happening in backyards everywhere – right now.</span></p>
  806. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Look down at the foot of your bed or at the other end of your couch. Look at the windowsill, or anywhere else your beloved rabbit, cat or dog might be lazily snoozing or licking their paw. Could you imagine refusing them a pet or snuggle when they rub up against your leg or climb into your lap? Could you imagine not filling up the water bowl with fresh, clean water several times a day, or scooping out a heaping portion of food, or making sure your animal companion has a warm place to sleep at night? Probably not. Could you wrap your head around ever striking your animal? The answer, hopefully, is of course not. This is the sickening reality for an outrageous amount of rabbits, cats, dogs, and other animals. The injustice could bring the strongest to their knees in sorrow, for what could be more sad than bringing pain to a creature that only wants to love and be loved in return?</span></p>
  807. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is time that we all stop turning a blind eye to the issues of human trafficking and animal abuse and shine our lights. Part of the reason we have become so violent against one another is because we have institutionalized violence against the innocent and helpless. We are, if nothing else, stewards of the animals and guardians of the children, both relying on us, in their own way, for food, comfort, shelter, etc. When that role is perverted into something different, there is suffering, period. We can no longer stand idly by while the helpless are traded like currency. We can no longer simply ignore the silent cries of the innocent and go about our daily lives as though their pain and hunger do not exist. Quite the contrary, they do exist, and it is our responsibility to help.</span></p>
  808. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">We urge you now to take action like never before. The fate of millions rests in our collective hands, and we have the power to make significant change. The first step for many is to merely acknowledge. Acknowledge that girls go missing from their homes at night, kidnapped and transported across borders to serve as cheap labor. Acknowledge that it isn’t okay to ignore the sad animal abuse ads on television simply because they are sad, because that is the point of those advertisements. You shouldn’t simply change the channel to the latest sitcom and numb yourself to reality, and that isn’t something that responsible citizens of this world do. It’s there. It’s real. And it’s not going away just because cable offers numerous ways for you to occupy your mind otherwise.</span></p>
  809. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s time to stop these injustices before they spread even further or are used to justify suffering of even more groups. Get concerned. Get active. Spread the word. Shine the Light!</span></p>
  810. </div>
  811. </article>
  812. ]]></content:encoded>
  814. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/shine-the-light/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
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  823.  
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  825. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  826. </media:content>
  827.  
  828. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/d77d8-img_1889.png?w=300&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  829. <media:title type="html">Shine the Light: Image of a shining light with the words &#034;Love never fails&#034; </media:title>
  830. </media:content>
  831. </item>
  832. <item>
  833. <title>Suffering in Silence</title>
  834. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/suffering-in-silence/</link>
  835. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/suffering-in-silence/#respond</comments>
  837. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  838. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 13:08:14 +0000</pubDate>
  839. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  840. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  841. <category><![CDATA[Break The Silence]]></category>
  842. <category><![CDATA[Emotional wellbeing]]></category>
  843. <category><![CDATA[Human Rights]]></category>
  844. <category><![CDATA[Menta lHealth Awareness]]></category>
  845. <category><![CDATA[Mental health awareness]]></category>
  846. <category><![CDATA[Mind Matters]]></category>
  847. <category><![CDATA[Seeking help for mental illness]]></category>
  848. <category><![CDATA[Speak Up]]></category>
  849. <category><![CDATA[Support And Recovery]]></category>
  850. <category><![CDATA[Support for silent sufferers]]></category>
  851. <category><![CDATA[You Are Not Alone]]></category>
  852. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12847</guid>
  853.  
  854. <description><![CDATA[We find it so easy to call others to action over what are really menial, inconsequential things. For instance, how many people take to Twitter to pour out their outcry over the cancellation of television programs on major cable networks? How many people will start an Internet petition to bring back a certain flavor or [&#8230;]]]></description>
  855. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8240" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/img_1886/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png" data-orig-size="1080,1313" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="IMG_1886" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png?w=247" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-8240 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png?w=247&#038;h=300" alt="Suffering in Silence: Image featuring words depicting love and kindness." width="247" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png?w=247&amp;h=300 247w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png?w=494&amp;h=600 494w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png?w=123&amp;h=150 123w" sizes="(max-width: 247px) 100vw, 247px" /></a></p>
  856. <p class="left"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">We find it so easy to call others to action over what are really menial, inconsequential things. For instance, how many people take to Twitter to pour out their outcry over the cancellation of television programs on major cable networks? How many people will start an Internet petition to bring back a certain flavor or brand of soda? How many people out there frothed at the mouth and ‘literally could not even’ over the disbranding and discontinuation of Twinkies just a few years ago? Our passion as a people runs high, yes, but are we not focusing on entirely the wrong things? What about the suffering of God&#8217;s creatures?</span></p>
  857. <p class="left"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Can we not find something that <em>actually matters </em>to be upset about, because, I assure you, there are almost no limits, sadly, to the awful things that <em>actually matter, </em>yet are widely ignored. Yes, we should be upset, but not about TV shows or cola.</span></p>
  858. <p class="left"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">How disconnected and divided as a world society do we need to be in order to focus on petty instances of our own differences and mundane, trivial matters like voting for a new flavor of potato chip? As disconnected and divided as it takes to ignore the facilitated violence against animals, women and children, everywhere one can look. This is not new information. We know that women and children are sold and trafficked. We know that children go hungry each night. We know that the elderly and mentally infirm are often abused and neglected. We know that animals are tortured for fun, literally, are beaten, are abandoned to the cold and elements. What does it say about us that we find time for frivolities such as those listed above (and more), but cannot seem to come together against abuse?</span></p>
  859. <p class="left"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Partly, it says that we’ve lost some of our soul. We used to know what it was to stand up for the underdog and fight for those that could not fight for themselves, but part of that has fled away, anesthetized by the static and comforting sounds of our television screens and the voices of those who cleverly instruct us on how to think, feel, and act. Isn’t it time to empower others by empowering ourselves? Isn’t it about time that we refocus, reconnect, and once again become the people that give a damn? If we don’t, then who will? If we don’t, then what next, or, more likely <em>who</em> is next?<em> </em><strong>When the world runs out of victims as it currently stands, who becomes the next victim? Is it you?</strong></span></p>
  860. <p class="left"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Hopefully, it will never come to that. Hopefully, we’ve now come far enough to reflect on what we have allowed ourselves to become and put our metaphorical foot down. Why should another young girl miss out on the happiness of youth just to be taken as a child bride far away from her home? Where is the outrage for that?</span></p>
  861. <p class="left"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Some people excuse their apathy as defeatism, disguising their silence into learned passivity, because, according to them, it’s hopeless. According to some people, there’s nothing we can actually do to improve the station of those that suffer. If these international slavery rings exist, what can an individual do to stop them? If animals die every day at the hands of abusers and neglect, what can <em>I</em> do to ease their pain and suffering?</span></p>
  862. <p class="left"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">What individuals do, what they have always done, in times such as these, to respond to the call of action that each of us <em>should</em> inherently feel at the knowledge of suffering and injustice, is to collect. This is our time to come together, rather than split apart, or continue hiding behind our television screens and smart phones because it’s too hard to support causes that matter. We need to stop making excuses. The suffering of others is real, and, no matter which country the victim comes from, no matter what color their skin may be, no matter if they have hands or paws, <strong>their pain is significant. It matters</strong>.</span></p>
  863. <p class="left"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The children sold by their own parents matter. The dog kept in a filthy kennel for its entire existence matters. The animals suffering in labs, factory farms and fur fams matters. What flavor of potato chip reins king in 2025 seems a little trite in the face of real suffering, does it not? </span></p>
  864. ]]></content:encoded>
  866. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/suffering-in-silence/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  867. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  871. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png" />
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  875.  
  876. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  877. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  878. </media:content>
  879.  
  880. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4171c-img_1886.png?w=247&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  881. <media:title type="html">Suffering in Silence: Image featuring words depicting love and kindness.</media:title>
  882. </media:content>
  883. </item>
  884. <item>
  885. <title>Suicide Awareness and Prevention</title>
  886. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/suicide-awareness-and-prevention/</link>
  887. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/suicide-awareness-and-prevention/#respond</comments>
  889. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  890. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:55:41 +0000</pubDate>
  891. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  892. <category><![CDATA[Break The Silence]]></category>
  893. <category><![CDATA[End The Stigma]]></category>
  894. <category><![CDATA[Hope And Healing]]></category>
  895. <category><![CDATA[mental health matters]]></category>
  896. <category><![CDATA[Prevention Saves Lives]]></category>
  897. <category><![CDATA[Speak Up Reach Out]]></category>
  898. <category><![CDATA[Stay Strong]]></category>
  899. <category><![CDATA[Suicide Awareness]]></category>
  900. <category><![CDATA[Support Mental Health]]></category>
  901. <category><![CDATA[YouAre Not Alone]]></category>
  902. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12841</guid>
  903.  
  904. <description><![CDATA[Everyone, at times, feels sad, alone, and helpless.For the majority of people these feelings are situational.They are a natural response to a bad event or a series of bad events.Over time the feelings pass and the individuals return to their normal emotional state. For others, however, depression is a lifelong battle, something that must be [&#8230;]]]></description>
  905. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8554" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/your-life-matters-logo/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png" data-orig-size="640,520" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="Your Life Matters Logo" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-8554" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png?w=267&#038;h=217" alt=" An uplifting image promoting suicide awareness and prevention, emphasizing the message that every life holds value." width="267" height="217" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png?w=267&amp;h=217 267w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png?w=534&amp;h=434 534w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png?w=150&amp;h=122 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png?w=300&amp;h=244 300w" sizes="(max-width: 267px) 100vw, 267px" /></a></p>
  906. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Everyone, at times, feels sad, alone, and helpless.For the majority of people these feelings are situational.They are a natural response to a bad event or a series of bad events.Over time the feelings pass and the individuals return to their normal emotional state.</span></p>
  907. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">For others, however, depression is a lifelong battle, something that must be dealt with every day.There are a number of treatments for depression.Not all treatments work the same for all people.If you, or someone you know, is clinically depressed, encourage that person to seek the care of a professional.</span></p>
  908. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">WARNING SIGNS: What To Look For</span></strong></p>
  909. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Sometimes depression, be it chronic or situational, can lead to thoughts of suicide.While often viewed as a mark of insanity by the general populous, for those contemplating a life ending action, it is a rational choice given to what they are confronting.</span></p>
  910. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">According to information complied by the Centers for Disease Control, suicide was the tenth leading cause of death in the United States. </span></p>
  911. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are a number of socio-economic risk factors which influence the likelihood of someone taking his or her life.There are a number of other risk factors which may be present in those who attempt suicide.These include survivors of abuse and cruelty, physical illness, mood disorders, confusion, substance abuse, job loss, personal or family history of suicide attempts, termination of a long-term relationship, death threats, envy, jealousy, spy games, torture, threats of death penalties, and lack of personal support from cruel people.</span></p>
  912. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are also a number of warning signs that people should be aware of.These vary from the fairly obvious— discussing feeling hopeless, trapped, or in constant pain, talking about committing suicide, attempting to acquire the means to commit suicide —to the more subtle.</span></p>
  913. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Changes in sleeping habits, violent mood swings, withdrawing from friends and family, increased use of alcohol or drugs, giving away prized possessions, failure to find enjoyment in favorite activities are also indicators which may reveal someone with suicidal ideation.</span></p>
  914. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">IDENTIFICATION AND SUPPORT: What To Do</span></strong></p>
  915. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you suspect a friend, family member, or colleague is thinking about or even planning suicide,the best thing that you can do is talk to them.Sometimes just knowing that there is someone out there who cares enough to spend the time listening is enough to change the way someone sees the world. </span></p>
  916. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The person you are speaking to is going through one of the most difficult times of her life.Her family members suffered and died, and her enemies are taking the sides of criminals or the romantic lust characters because they are all blood-thirsty abusers and criminals themselves.</span></p>
  917. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You are there to listen, and if necessary, suggest helping, healing options.Regardless of your opinion about the morality of taking ones&#8217; own life, refrain from selfish statements, gas-lighting or death threats which will turn the person in need away from you.</span></p>
  918. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is equally important to recognize that you can not do everything yourself.Another excellent way to show the people in need that they are not alone is to literally show them that they are not alone.  </span></p>
  919. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are numerous PEOPLE who specialize in helping those who are contemplating suicide.Be willing to attend a support group with those in need of help.Bring them to a counselor or God-fearing leader who will treat them kindly and discuss their feelings with them.</span></p>
  920. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In cases of immediate distress, it may be necessary to use more dramatic measures.Most hospital emergency rooms and psychiatric facilities have methods in place for dealing with those who may be a danger to themselves or others.While it may be outside your power to arrange to have someone temporarily committed, you can definitely work to show them that this is a step that they may need, something which they could do voluntarily.</span></p>
  921. <p style="font-weight: 400"><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Support From Unexpected Areas: Animals And Unconditional Love</span></strong></p>
  922. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If the person contemplating a life-ending action is feeling abandoned, gently remind them of all of those who care about them.</span></p>
  923. <p><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8558" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n-2/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/db11a-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n.jpg" data-orig-size="500,455" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/db11a-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/db11a-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n.jpg?w=500" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-8558" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/db11a-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n.jpg?w=300&#038;h=273" alt="" width="300" height="273" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/db11a-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n.jpg?w=300&amp;h=273 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/db11a-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n.jpg?w=150&amp;h=137 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/db11a-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p>
  924. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Everyone has friends and family who would be devastated by the loss of a loved one.You have the opportunity to be someone’s angel, just by being kind to them.</span></p>
  925. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Remember to avoid being preachy, judgmental, or heavy handed when doing this.You do not want to chastise the individual.The last thing that you want to do is make them feel worse or like they are failing those who care about them.</span><br />
  926. <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><br />
  927. Your goal is to provide them with an insight which they may be missing — namely that while they might feel alone, they are surrounded by those who care about them.</span></p>
  928. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This is not limited to just the people in their lives. Nothing in the world is as forgiving, nonjudgmental, or capable of providing unconditional love like a furry family member.  </span></p>
  929. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are numerous stories of people who have survived terrible hardships, who thought about completely giving up, but who were pulled back from the precipice because of the love of a good animal.</span></p>
  930. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It may seem trite or even childish, but when someone has come to the edge of their rope anything which can provide them with the stability and willingness to go on is a useful tool.  </span></p>
  931. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A reminder that there is another being which loves them, lives for them, and depends upon them may be just the knowledge that they need.</span></p>
  932. ]]></content:encoded>
  934. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/suicide-awareness-and-prevention/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  935. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  939. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/53901-your-life-matters-logo-300x244-1.webp" />
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  941. <media:title type="html">Your-Life-Matters-Logo-300x244</media:title>
  942. </media:content>
  943.  
  944. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  945. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  946. </media:content>
  947.  
  948. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9bd0e-your-life-matters-logo.png?w=300&#038;h=244" medium="image">
  949. <media:title type="html"> An uplifting image promoting suicide awareness and prevention, emphasizing the message that every life holds value.</media:title>
  950. </media:content>
  951.  
  952. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/db11a-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n.jpg?w=300&#038;h=273" medium="image" />
  953. </item>
  954. <item>
  955. <title>Help Needy Animals with Your Support Today!</title>
  956. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/help-needy-animals-with-your-support-today/</link>
  957. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/help-needy-animals-with-your-support-today/#respond</comments>
  959. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  960. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:43:00 +0000</pubDate>
  961. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  962. <category><![CDATA[Animal Advocacy]]></category>
  963. <category><![CDATA[animal rescue]]></category>
  964. <category><![CDATA[Animal rescue efforts]]></category>
  965. <category><![CDATA[Animal Shelter Support]]></category>
  966. <category><![CDATA[animal welfare]]></category>
  967. <category><![CDATA[Animals Rights]]></category>
  968. <category><![CDATA[Compassion For Animals]]></category>
  969. <category><![CDATA[Help Stray Animals]]></category>
  970. <category><![CDATA[Needy Pets]]></category>
  971. <category><![CDATA[Pet adoption]]></category>
  972. <category><![CDATA[Support Needy Animals]]></category>
  973. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12835</guid>
  974.  
  975. <description><![CDATA[The world is full of animals in need, and far too often, their cries for help are left unanswered. Every so often, an advertisement seeking funding for needy animals will come on the television as I work on my articles and I&#8217;ll turn to my rabbit Neon and cat Pippa, resting in their nest of [&#8230;]]]></description>
  976. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/35dbc-th-1-1-1.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="12838" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/th-1-1/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/35dbc-th-1-1-1.jpg" data-orig-size="220,220" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="th-1 (1)" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/35dbc-th-1-1-1.jpg?w=220" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/35dbc-th-1-1-1.jpg?w=220" class="alignnone wp-image-12838 size-full" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/35dbc-th-1-1-1.jpg?w=616" alt="Illustration dispicting Needy Animals"   srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/35dbc-th-1-1-1.jpg 220w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/35dbc-th-1-1-1.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w" sizes="(max-width: 220px) 100vw, 220px" /></a></p>
  977. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The world is full of animals in need, and far too often, their cries for help are left unanswered. Every so often, an advertisement seeking funding for needy animals will come on the television as I work on my articles and I&#8217;ll turn to my rabbit Neon and cat Pippa, resting in their nest of cozy toys and pastel pink blanket, and remark to them that I love them. Just recently, in fact, I was hit with this random, gut-wrenching feeling at the simple thought of my rabbit and cat feeling sad, or perhaps scared. There&#8217;s no doubt that I love my rabbit and cat, just like there&#8217;s no doubt that virtually all pet owners love their pets, but how often do we turn a blind eye to the sad commercials? How often do we walk past a stray cat on the street?</span></p>
  978. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It&#8217;s easy to feel defeatist, especially in the current climate of animal rights. Which of our victories are real victories when vivisection is still a very real experience for some of our poor fellow earthlings? It&#8217;s important, however, to stop and think about how seemingly microscopic actions make an enormous difference to those that we&#8217;re helping.</span></p>
  979. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">About two years ago, a friend of mine went to go and teach English to schoolchildren in South Korea. There is a specific breed of dog there that is bred for the purposes of consumption, and my friend was well aware of this before she left. I asked her how she felt about this before she left at the time and she shook her shoulders.</span></p>
  980. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">&#8220;I don&#8217;t know. . .&#8221; she said. &#8220;Is it really all that different from thinking tea cup pigs are cute, and eating bacon?&#8221;</span></p>
  981. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Fast forward several months. My friend has settled into her new life in a major South Korean city and uses public transportation to get to her different schools. She is happy, and posts about her adventures on social media. Late at night, however, she sends me a message. She revealed to me that her bus route takes her straight by one of the restaurants that serves cat and dog as a meal, and that earlier that day, she had seen a shipment of cats and dogs arrive.</span></p>
  982. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">&#8220;I couldn&#8217;t breathe,&#8221; she said to me, obviously still emotionally shaken. &#8220;It was everything I could do not to break down on the way to the kindergarten.&#8221;</span></p>
  983. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Later on, my friend met an old man who kept one of those dogs as a puppy, and she would walk past him and the pup daily. She would exchange pleasantries and pet the dog, and one day, she asked what his name was. The man replied with a bright laugh and the Korean word for dinner, again shaking my friend deeply.</span></p>
  984. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Days later, my friend returned to that old man and offered him payment in return for the puppy.</span></p>
  985. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Now, a year later and back on US soil, my animal companions and my friend&#8217;s dog play together every now and then.</span></p>
  986. <p class="ad-inserter--targeted"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">What my friend did did not halt the industry that so disturbed and hurt her on an emotional level. What she did, however, made a world of difference to one sweet little dog.</span></p>
  987. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Think about this the next time you wonder what difference you, as an individual, can make. Please Help Needy Needy Animals Today!</span></p>
  988. ]]></content:encoded>
  990. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/help-needy-animals-with-your-support-today/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  991. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  995. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/35dbc-th-1-1-1.jpg" />
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  997. <media:title type="html">th-1 (1)</media:title>
  998. </media:content>
  999.  
  1000. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  1001. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
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  1003. </item>
  1004. <item>
  1005. <title>Fur Farms-Stop the Cruelty!!!</title>
  1006. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/fur-farms-stop-the-cruelty/</link>
  1007. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/fur-farms-stop-the-cruelty/#respond</comments>
  1009. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  1010. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:26:01 +0000</pubDate>
  1011. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  1012. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  1013. <category><![CDATA[Animal rights advocacy]]></category>
  1014. <category><![CDATA[animal welfare]]></category>
  1015. <category><![CDATA[Animal welfare awareness]]></category>
  1016. <category><![CDATA[Anti Fur]]></category>
  1017. <category><![CDATA[Anti-fur campaigns]]></category>
  1018. <category><![CDATA[Compassion In Fashion]]></category>
  1019. <category><![CDATA[End Animal Cruelty]]></category>
  1020. <category><![CDATA[Ending fur farms]]></category>
  1021. <category><![CDATA[Ethical Fashion]]></category>
  1022. <category><![CDATA[Ethical fashion choices]]></category>
  1023. <category><![CDATA[Fur farming cruelty]]></category>
  1024. <category><![CDATA[Fur Free]]></category>
  1025. <category><![CDATA[Fur industry alternatives]]></category>
  1026. <category><![CDATA[Fur Is Dead]]></category>
  1027. <category><![CDATA[Humane Treatment]]></category>
  1028. <category><![CDATA[Humane treatment of animals]]></category>
  1029. <category><![CDATA[Stop Fur Farming]]></category>
  1030. <category><![CDATA[Stopping animal exploitation]]></category>
  1031. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12828</guid>
  1032.  
  1033. <description><![CDATA[You wake up in a filthy, cramped metal cage, surrounded by dozens of others who are all as confused and scared as you are. You don’t know why you’re there, but others around you keep disappearing.You don’t know where they’re going, but their agonized cries tell you their destination is a place of death and [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1034. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15efb-minks-on-truck-destined-for-slaughter-300x200-1.webp"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="12832" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/minks-on-truck-destined-for-slaughter-300x200/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15efb-minks-on-truck-destined-for-slaughter-300x200-1.webp" data-orig-size="300,200" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="Minks-on-Truck-Destined-for-Slaughter-300&#215;200" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15efb-minks-on-truck-destined-for-slaughter-300x200-1.webp?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15efb-minks-on-truck-destined-for-slaughter-300x200-1.webp?w=300" class="alignnone wp-image-12832 size-full" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15efb-minks-on-truck-destined-for-slaughter-300x200-1.webp?w=616" alt="Image dispicting animals on a fur farm truck."   srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15efb-minks-on-truck-destined-for-slaughter-300x200-1.webp 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15efb-minks-on-truck-destined-for-slaughter-300x200-1.webp?w=150&amp;h=100 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  1035. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You wake up in a filthy, cramped metal cage, surrounded by dozens of others who are all as confused and scared as you are. You don’t know why you’re there, but others around you keep disappearing.You don’t know where they’re going, but their agonized cries tell you their destination is a place of death and suffering.</span></p>
  1036. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One day, someone grabs you from your suffocating prison and takes you against your will. You know you’re about to experience the same horrors as the others who have been taken. The air stinks of blood. You are hung from your feet, and before you can scream in protest, you feel the searing pain of a knife cutting into you…</span></p>
  1037. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If this disturbs you, be aware that this is the fate of thousands of animals globally, who are often skinned alive for their fur.Eighty-five percent of the fur industry&#8217;s skins come from animals on fur factory farms.We must ask ourselves: why are animals subjected to such inhumane treatment, and what can we do to put an end to such cruelty?</span></p>
  1038. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">While it is true that humans have been wearing animal fur for millennia, what is unprecedented is the severe abuse that animals experience solely for economic and materialistic indulgence. In early human civilization, animal fur was used for sheer survival and necessity, but this is clearly no longer the case today. As human technology has progressed and created a diverse range of clothing options available, there is no reason to wear animal fur other than for conspicuous consumption and monetary gain. In a capitalist and competitive global market, fur farming methods are designed to benefit only the bottom line. In the end, innocent animals pay the ultimate price.The true bottom line is that fur-farming is a shamefully inhumane practice, and it is our responsibility to put an end to this cruelty.</span></p>
  1039. <p><span style="font-size: 20px"><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">What kinds of animals are killed in fur farms?</span></strong></span></p>
  1040. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">According to Born Free USA, more than 36 million animals die on fur farms around the world each year. Thirty-one million (or about 90 percent) of these animals are mink. Foxes account for another 4.5 million, while chinchillas, sable, ferret (usually marketed as “fitch”), coypus (an aquatic mammal also known as “nutria”), and raccoon dogs (not to be confused with the North American raccoon), account for most of the remaining half-million animals. Due to the recent drop in pelt prices for mink and fox, some of U.S. fur farms have attempted to ‘diversify’ by raising bobcat, coyote, raccoon, and beavers, along with coypus and rabbits — all in equally abhorrent conditions.</span></p>
  1041. <p><span style="font-size: 20px"><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">What happens in fur farms?</span></strong></span></p>
  1042. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">When they see the term “farmed fur,” many people conjure images of a lush farm where animals are treated humanely, but the harsh reality is that this couldn&#8217;t be further from the truth. Although animal rights advocates have done a phenomenal job of raising awareness about the cruelties involved in fur trapping, little attention has been paid to the atrocities that take place on fur farms, sometimes also referred to euphemistically as “fur ranches.” A recent study conducted for the International Association of Fish &amp; Wildlife Agencies indicated that most respondents objected to trapping animals to make fur products and voiced a preference for furs from fur farms (Born Free USA). It is now time for the public to realize that fur farms are just as cruel as trapping.</span></p>
  1043. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Animals in fur farms often spend their entire lives in tiny cages that are stacked on top of each other, with feces and urine falling down through the cages into their food and water. They have nothing to stand on but cold, hard, wire mesh. In many cases, animals must share cages with each other in a single cage that does not allow for full movement. </span></p>
  1044. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Often times, animals are left with no protection from the elements.As a result, studies have shown that up to 85 percent of these confined animals develop behavioral abnormalities, such as rocking, head-bobbing, self-mutilation, psychosis, and infanticide due to anxiety, boredom, and an inability to live in a way that meets their instinctual needs.</span></p>
  1045. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">As cruel as life on a fur farm is, the methods of killing used in these factories of death are horrifying to say the least. On U.S. and European fur farms, one of the most frequently used methods of killing animals is electrocution: the “farmer” puts a metal clamp in an animal’s mouth, a metal rod in the anus, and sends a high-voltage current surging through the body. Sometimes the power surge forces the rod out of the anus, so the procedure must be repeated to kill the animal. Other commonly-employed techniques include: homemade gas chambers, such as a box hooked up to a tractor exhaust pipe; lethal injection of various chemicals that kill through paralysis, which can result in immobilized animals being skinned alive; and neck breaking (Born Free USA).</span></p>
  1046. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">China is the world’s largest fur exporter, and its fur farms have demonstrated some of the most harrowing abuses of animal rights to date. Before they are skinned, humans yank the animals from their cages, throw them to the ground, and bludgeon them. Undercover investigators from Swiss Animal Protection/EAST International found that many animals are still alive and struggling desperately when workers flip them onto their backs or hang them up by their legs or tails to skin them. Some of the animals&#8217; hearts are still beating five to 10 minutes after they are skinned. Due to the absence of regulations, many animal furs (including cat and dog) are advertised as different animals. There are currently no penalties for abusing animals on fur farms in China.</span></p>
  1047. <p><span style="font-size: 20px"><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">What can we do to stop fur farming?</span></strong></span></p>
  1048. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Fur farming, like any other industry, depends on the basic economic process of supply and demand. Consequently, the best way to stop fur farming is to ensure that you do not buy any fur products – including any products using fur trim – and take extra precaution even when buying faux fur. Because there are very few countries that have regulations or laws against fur farming, we must pressure our governments to end this cruelty for the sake of fashion, economic greed, and status. International laws are diverse in strength, but a few countries have strictly regulated or completely banned fur farms (Austria, the United Kingdom, and Croatia have bans, the Netherlands has a ban on fox and chinchilla farming, and New Zealand, Sweden, and Switzerland have strict regulations).</span></p>
  1049. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">No federal laws regulate how the animals on the nearly 400 fur farms in operation in the U.S. are to be housed, cared for, or killed. However, recently, West Hollywood, California became the first city to ban the sale of wearable fur in the form of any article of clothing. Let us follow in their footsteps and put pressure on our government leaders to set a global example. It is clear that no living creature deserves to be treated this way, and if we are to make any strides as a compassionate society, we must abolish <a href="https://www.peta.org/features/nine-shocking-fur-facts/?utm_campaign=0312%20Nine%20Fur%20Facts%20Feature&amp;utm_source=PETA%20E-Mail&amp;utm_medium=E-News">fur farming</a>.</span></p>
  1050. ]]></content:encoded>
  1052. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/fur-farms-stop-the-cruelty/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  1053. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  1057. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/15efb-minks-on-truck-destined-for-slaughter-300x200-1.webp" />
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  1061.  
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  1063. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  1064. </media:content>
  1065. </item>
  1066. <item>
  1067. <title>Dear America: We Can Do Better</title>
  1068. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/dear-america-we-can-do-better/</link>
  1069. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/dear-america-we-can-do-better/#respond</comments>
  1071. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  1072. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 12:15:16 +0000</pubDate>
  1073. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  1074. <category><![CDATA[Advocacy]]></category>
  1075. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  1076. <category><![CDATA[animal welfare]]></category>
  1077. <category><![CDATA[Call To Action]]></category>
  1078. <category><![CDATA[Community Engagement]]></category>
  1079. <category><![CDATA[compassion]]></category>
  1080. <category><![CDATA[empathy]]></category>
  1081. <category><![CDATA[Equality]]></category>
  1082. <category><![CDATA[Human Rights]]></category>
  1083. <category><![CDATA[Human rights advocacy]]></category>
  1084. <category><![CDATA[Promoting equality]]></category>
  1085. <category><![CDATA[Social Justice]]></category>
  1086. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12821</guid>
  1087.  
  1088. <description><![CDATA[I envision an America that champions clean water for all. I see, in my mind, legislation passing that prohibits any dangerous substances from being near precious water supplies. Man, and beast alike have free access to clean, potable water as a right, not a privilege. Humans, with their dominion over the land, strive to make [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1089. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1090. <p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/620d6-american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300x263-1.webp"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="12825" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300x263/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/620d6-american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300x263-1.webp" data-orig-size="300,263" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300&#215;263" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/620d6-american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300x263-1.webp?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/620d6-american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300x263-1.webp?w=300" class="alignnone wp-image-12825 size-full" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/620d6-american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300x263-1.webp?w=616" alt="Illustration dispicting America."   srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/620d6-american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300x263-1.webp 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/620d6-american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300x263-1.webp?w=150&amp;h=132 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  1091. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I envision an America that champions clean water for all. I see, in my mind, legislation passing that prohibits any dangerous substances from being near precious water supplies. Man, and beast alike have free access to clean, potable water as a right, not a privilege. Humans, with their dominion over the land, strive to make the environment healthy, and strive to make the habitats of their fellow beings safe, clean, and, above all, habitable. Plans to repair dying infrastructure that poisons the water our children drink would be put into place, and the rivers and oceans and seas would be purged of our toxic garbage. Littering the habitats of other creatures, introducing dangerous materials to their homes, would be a much bigger crime.</span></p>
  1092. </div>
  1093. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1094. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I envision an America that isn’t hell-bent on destroying everything but the almighty dollar. Shoes upon the feet of every child, no matter which neighborhood they grew up in, no segregation of education, a free meal with fresh vegetables guaranteed. Look at the world, then look at us. If they can do it, why can’t we?</span></p>
  1095. </div>
  1096. <div class="cli cli-advertisement advertisement-holder">
  1097. <div class="advertisement-sticky-wrapper">
  1098. <div class="advertisement">
  1099. <div id="ad-inline-1-1" class="ad-entry_paragraph_1 ad-spot--gam ad-spot--gam-inline-1">
  1100. <div id="MagniteApex-wrapper-0.9049205162313874">
  1101. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1102. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I envision an America where stomping baby animals to death for  videos isn’t defended as “free speech”. I dream of an America where YouTube videos of animals being tortured or hurt don’t get thousands upon thousands of views. I see fur farms, animal testing labs and kill shelters shut down, and every unwanted animal getting a loving family, because the United States of America I envision, places emphasis on adopting animals in need rather than supporting an industry of backyard breeders and puppy mills.</span></p>
  1103. </div>
  1104. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1105. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">An animal is not a fashion statement. An animal is not a status symbol. An animal is meant to love, and to be loved.</span></p>
  1106. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1107. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These are my dreams, my hopes, my wishes for my home country, but really all I see are nightmares.</span></p>
  1108. </div>
  1109. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1110. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I can never remove the image of an animal being skinned alive for its fur from my mind. I see it, bloody and broken and blinking, conscious and aware, suffering needlessly. I think about whoever wound up purchasing that pelt, wearing its coat on their own body, and I wonder if this selfish individual ever stopped to think that some things are more important, more valuable, more precious than an ill-begotten clothing trend.</span></p>
  1111. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1112. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I can’t stop shaking whenever I read about new pipelines over sacred grounds, whole cultures dismissed with the simple pass of ink on paper. I imagine the oil spilling onto the soil and reaching, oozing its way to groundwater. Yet again, clean water is ruined in an age in which we constantly fear running out of clean water.</span></p>
  1113. </div>
  1114. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1115. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Try as you may, you cannot drink a dollar bill.</span></p>
  1116. </div>
  1117. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1118. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s hard to be a sensitive person living in this country anymore. America, my beloved, has rapidly become America, my painful heart. I look, as I’m supposed to, as we all should, for the people who try. I look for the people who help. When there’s a natural disaster, we pull together. Donations of food, money, clothing, medicine, and clean water are sent from all corners of the country to whatever ravaged area. Volunteers sift through the rubble to look for lost pets and children. Medical staff comes on-site for triage and immediate care, and doctors and nurses at the nearest hospitals pull double shifts.</span></p>
  1119. </div>
  1120. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1121. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">My most shameful and pain-filled question for this land that I love and those who live here alongside me is, “Why does there need to be a disaster?”</span></p>
  1122. </div>
  1123. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1124. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Why does there need to be a disaster for there to be helpers? Why do whole towns have to be swallowed by earthquakes and tornadoes and hurricanes in order for us to care about each other? There are isolated communities across rural America desperate for easier access to food and medical care and depressed regions of our greatest and largest cities where the water is poison and children and animals alike go hungry. Where are their helpers?</span></p>
  1125. </div>
  1126. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1127. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">How bad does it really have to get before our hearts are as open as our wallets when we purchase a new iPad or television set?</span></p>
  1128. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1129. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I’m an optimist by nature, if you can imagine it. I seek out the very best in the very worst of all of us. I channel my belief in the autonomy of all sentient life and feel so close to God and  to nature that I gain strength I never knew that I had. I spread my smiles and what I have to give at shelters for animals and people in the hopes that they are touched by some bit of kindness in a world that is so very cruel. At the rabbit shelter, I gain the trust of frightened critters and help to socialize them, help them to feel loved and trustful of human beings that have previously failed them. I volunteer to provide basic care. I participate in rallies and demonstrations for the rights and fair treatment of all. I do my best to live by my virtues and beliefs, to stand by them steadfastly, and, in doing so, my spirit soars, and I feel whole.</span></p>
  1130. </div>
  1131. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1132. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I envision an America where the weakest of us are sheltered by the strongest of us. I envision an America in which poor little bunnies have never learned to fear human beings. I long for an America where there are no elderly homeless, or any homeless at all, where the dignities of cleanliness and being fed are not considered to be for a select few rather than all.</span></p>
  1133. </div>
  1134. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  1135. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I envision an America of peace and bravery, kindness and selflessness, conscious effort and conscious living.</span></p>
  1136. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">My people, my countrymen, it all begins with a kind heart. It all begins with loving one another and wishing well your fellow creatures. If they can do it, why not us?</span></p>
  1137. </div>
  1138. </div>
  1139. </div>
  1140. </div>
  1141. </div>
  1142. </div>
  1143. </div>
  1144. </div>
  1145. </div>
  1146. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text "></div>
  1147. ]]></content:encoded>
  1149. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/dear-america-we-can-do-better/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  1150. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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  1156. <media:title type="html">american-flag-usa-text-design_460848-13076-300x263</media:title>
  1157. </media:content>
  1158.  
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  1160. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  1161. </media:content>
  1162. </item>
  1163. <item>
  1164. <title>Animal Welfare and Christian Responsibility</title>
  1165. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/animal-welfare-and-christian-responsibility/</link>
  1166. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/animal-welfare-and-christian-responsibility/#respond</comments>
  1168. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  1169. <pubDate>Mon, 31 Mar 2025 11:56:45 +0000</pubDate>
  1170. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  1171. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  1172. <category><![CDATA[Animal rights in Christianity]]></category>
  1173. <category><![CDATA[animal welfare]]></category>
  1174. <category><![CDATA[Animal welfare in the Bible]]></category>
  1175. <category><![CDATA[Biblical stewardship]]></category>
  1176. <category><![CDATA[Christian animal ethics]]></category>
  1177. <category><![CDATA[Christian compassion]]></category>
  1178. <category><![CDATA[Christian duty to animals]]></category>
  1179. <category><![CDATA[Christian environmentalism]]></category>
  1180. <category><![CDATA[Christian Ethics]]></category>
  1181. <category><![CDATA[Christian ethics and animals]]></category>
  1182. <category><![CDATA[Christian Responsibility]]></category>
  1183. <category><![CDATA[Christian stewardship]]></category>
  1184. <category><![CDATA[Compassion For Animals]]></category>
  1185. <category><![CDATA[Creation care]]></category>
  1186. <category><![CDATA[Dominion and responsibility]]></category>
  1187. <category><![CDATA[Ethical Care]]></category>
  1188. <category><![CDATA[Ethical treatment of animals]]></category>
  1189. <category><![CDATA[Faith and animal care]]></category>
  1190. <category><![CDATA[Faith And Compassion]]></category>
  1191. <category><![CDATA[Faith-based animal advocacy]]></category>
  1192. <category><![CDATA[Humane treatment of animals]]></category>
  1193. <category><![CDATA[Kindness To Animals]]></category>
  1194. <category><![CDATA[Protect Gods Creation]]></category>
  1195. <category><![CDATA[Stewardship]]></category>
  1196. <category><![CDATA[Theology of animals]]></category>
  1197. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12814</guid>
  1198.  
  1199. <description><![CDATA[Proverbs 12:10, “A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.” I am a born-again believer and my relationship with my God and Saviour, Jesus Christ remains the most important aspect of my life. And though every day I fall so very short of what I [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1200. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/163a7-img_1893-300x300-1.webp"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="12818" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/img_1893-300x300-1/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/163a7-img_1893-300x300-1.webp" data-orig-size="300,300" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="IMG_1893-300&#215;300 (1)" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/163a7-img_1893-300x300-1.webp?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/163a7-img_1893-300x300-1.webp?w=300" class="alignnone wp-image-12818 size-full" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/163a7-img_1893-300x300-1.webp?w=616" alt="Illustration dispicting Animal Welfare."   srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/163a7-img_1893-300x300-1.webp 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/163a7-img_1893-300x300-1.webp?w=150&amp;h=150 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  1201. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Proverbs 12:10, “A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast: but the tender mercies of the wicked are cruel.”</span></strong></p>
  1202. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I am a born-again believer and my relationship with my God and Saviour, Jesus Christ remains the most important aspect of my life. And though every day I fall so very short of what I can and should be as a child of God and a representative of Christ Jesus on Earth, my faith informs every aspect of my life. So much of my walk of faith has been shaped from my earliest memories by those closest to me, animals, dear ones who share my faith and my struggles, the challenges of living a Christ-like life in an un-Christ-like world.</span></p>
  1203. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">My faith has carried over in important ways to my relationship with animals. I have held precious animals as they took their last breath. I simply love animals, especially my pets or animal companions.</span></p>
  1204. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">As a Christian, I love all living things, including animals. In fact, for me, the love of animals is profoundly and inextricably bound up with my faith in Christ Jesus. Unfortunately, this fierce and enduring connection between faith and animal fellowship is not something many of my fellow Christians share.</span></p>
  1205. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I have known many deeply faithful Christians who refused to pray for a sick, injured, or lost animal because they believed that animals were not possessed of souls. For them, to pray for a soulless creature would be a form of disrespect—if not sacrilege. And that is the challenge that so many Christians face. It is the dichotomy between compassion and apathy which, as a Christian and an animal rescuer, fur-mom, activist, and advocate, chills me to the bone.</span></p>
  1206. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The soul is composed of 3 elements: a Mind to think, a Heart to feel emotions, and a Will to decide. Animals, just as humans, possess these characteristics. Animals can become sad, and depressed, if mistreated. Likewise, animals are happy and content when we respect them as creatures of God&#8217;s divine handiwork and omnipotence.</span></p>
  1207. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Many Christians base their relationship with animals on Genesis 1: 26: “And God said, let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth” (KJV).</span></p>
  1208. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is this idea of “dominion” which so often drives Christian attitudes toward animal, all too often leading to negligence in the best cases and to brutality in the worst. The online edition of the Merriam-Webster dictionary defines “dominion”, alternatively, as “supreme authority” and “absolute ownership.”</span></p>
  1209. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Far too often, though, Christians distort and abuse this idea of “absolute ownership” for their own selfish gains, for reasons that have nothing to do with adherence to God’s commandments. In the name of “dominion,” they may discard or kill an animal whose care has become too costly, asserting that this is the God-given right of the proprietor to dispose of his “belongings” as he sees fit. They may “punish” or “break” an animal who does not submit to human will—an animal who does not easily take to the yoke or the bridle, who does not perform adequately at aquatic parks or in circuses, an animal that dares to exhibit aggression against a human, no matter how grossly it has been treated. In the name of human “dominion”, animals are relegated to the backyards of our homes, spending their entire lives crushed and torn by the weights of heavy chains, left alone to languish in the heat of summer and to tremble in the agonies of winter, subsisting on dirty water and insect-infested food as the sounds of the family’s laughter and the scent of bounteous food wafts from the kitchen window.</span></p>
  1210. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In the name of “dominion”—and commerce—animals spend their lives in cramped cages, bearing litter after litter to of “high-end” purebreds and coveted “designer” mixes, even as their bones deform to the shape of their wire prisons, their skin crawls with vermin and flames with bites, their sight clouds from lifetimes spent in darkness, and their spirit erodes from a life that has never known kindness, never felt the touch of a gentle hand, never heard the soft voice of Christ-like compassion.</span></p>
  1211. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Around the world, every day, animals are either skinned alive, or boiled alive so that their fur can be harvested in the service of human vanity. They are cut, poisoned, tortured, and brutalized before their lives are finally taken to support so-called “research” that too often provides no tangible benefit to humanity whatsoever.</span></p>
  1212. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">To meet humans’ insatiable gluttony, sows are confined for their entire lives in nursing pens with no room even to lie down or turn around; chickens are stuffed into cramped cages with thousands of other birds, suffering broken bones and suffocation in the crushing throng; cattle are stunned with electric prods and their throats slit before being hung from by their hind legs to bleed slowly to death. And these are horrors that are repeated countless times each day on a global scale.</span></p>
  1213. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In my life, I have seen terrible things: animals starved and beaten: Cats so traumatized by abuse they were scheduled for euthanasia because their fear of humans made them “unadoptable”; dogs burned, shot, beaten, and stabbed. America is a purportedly Christian nation where humanity is said to prevail…</span></p>
  1214. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In the name of some supposed God-given hierarchy, the welfare of non-human animals is deemed secondary, non-essential, an afterthought, or even a luxury that only the wealthy, the indulgently softhearted, or the foolish can afford. And this is all not only rationalized but presented as a divine right and duty, a commandment from God.</span></p>
  1215. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">But I know another Jesus Christ. The Jesus I know is the Jesus of love. Of mercy. Of tenderness and of loving kindness. My Jesus is the Jesus whose eye is on the sparrow, the One who witnesses each sparrow’s fall. Note Luke 12: 6, “Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?” (KJV) and Psalm 50: 10-11: “For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. / I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine” (KJV italics original).</span></p>
  1216. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">We, as Christians, do not own these animals. WE do not hold supreme authority over them. They belong, always, and forever, to God, their Creator, and it is in Him that supreme authority rests. We are stewards. We are not proprietors. We are caretakers, not creators. So, when His eye is on the sparrow, know that it is also on the keeper of the sparrow. When He claims His cattle, His fowl, His beasts of the field, be certain that the stewards charged with their care will be called to account.</span></p>
  1217. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If we are to be Christians, then we must be Christ-like—and at the heart of this is love; it is compassion; it is wonder in and reverence for the works of divine creation, particularly those imbued with the sacred breath of life. Only when we learn to do this, to exercise the tender-loving care for all creatures that God has so abundantly and undeservedly heaped upon us that we will truly understand what it means to worship. Only then we will truly have the capacity to see and to reverence His works as we should. Only then will we truly be the representatives of Christ that we are called to be. Because the Bible says that the animals have much to teach us: “But ask now the beasts, and they shall teach thee; and the fowls of the air, and they shall tell thee:  Or speak to the earth, and it shall teach thee: and the fishes of the sea shall declare unto thee. Who knoweth not in all these that the hand of the Lord hath wrought this? / In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind” (Job 12: 7-10, KJV). How many more precious innocents must suffer and die before we finally learn?</span></p>
  1218. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">“&#8230;speaking the truth in love&#8230;” —Ephesians 4:15</span></strong></p>
  1219. ]]></content:encoded>
  1221. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/31/animal-welfare-and-christian-responsibility/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  1222. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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  1228. <media:title type="html">IMG_1893-300x300 (1)</media:title>
  1229. </media:content>
  1230.  
  1231. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  1232. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  1233. </media:content>
  1234. </item>
  1235. <item>
  1236. <title>Stopping Horse Abuse</title>
  1237. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/28/stopping-horse-abuse/</link>
  1238. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/28/stopping-horse-abuse/#respond</comments>
  1240. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  1241. <pubDate>Fri, 28 Mar 2025 19:42:56 +0000</pubDate>
  1242. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  1243. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  1244. <category><![CDATA[End Horse Cruelty]]></category>
  1245. <category><![CDATA[Equine Advocacy]]></category>
  1246. <category><![CDATA[Equine Welfare]]></category>
  1247. <category><![CDATA[Ethical Horsemanship]]></category>
  1248. <category><![CDATA[Horse abuse awareness]]></category>
  1249. <category><![CDATA[Horse cruelty prevention]]></category>
  1250. <category><![CDATA[Horse Protection]]></category>
  1251. <category><![CDATA[Horse Rescue]]></category>
  1252. <category><![CDATA[Protect Horses]]></category>
  1253. <category><![CDATA[Stop Animal Abuse]]></category>
  1254. <category><![CDATA[Stopping Horse Abuse]]></category>
  1255. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=12796</guid>
  1256.  
  1257. <description><![CDATA[In the 1877 classic novel Black Beauty, audiences learned to empathize with the sufferings of a horse forced to pull cabs through London. Yet 137 years later, horse-drawn carriages are still popular in a number of cities around the world, including New York City. Even horse lovers will go for a horse-drawn carriage ride in [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1258. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="12799" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg" data-orig-size="324,324" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="&lt;p&gt;??????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????&lt;/p&gt;
  1259. " data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg?w=324" class="alignnone wp-image-12799 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" alt="Illustration dipsicting Horse Abuse" width="300" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg 324w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  1260. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In the 1877 classic novel Black Beauty, audiences learned to empathize with the sufferings of a horse forced to pull cabs through London. Yet 137 years later, horse-drawn carriages are still popular in a number of cities around the world, including New York City. Even horse lovers will go for a horse-drawn carriage ride in the city, thinking of it as romantic and fun. Most people do not realize the hardships and suffering that horses working in New York City go through. The harsh reality is that horses are not meant to work long, difficult hours in an urban environment, and this work constitutes nothing less than animal cruelty.</span></p>
  1261. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are about 220 horses in NYC who work drawing carriages. They usually work about nine hours a day, seven days a week. At the end of the day, instead of being turned out into pastures as is healthy for horses, they are placed in stalls near the Lincoln Tunnel and West Side Highway. They do not have a chance to run around, roll, eat grass, or socialize as is normal for horses. Then, at the end of a long and tiring career, carriage horses do not get to retire out to a pasture somewhere. Instead, most worn-out horses are either slaughtered for dog food or sold to overseas slaughterhouses that will sell their meat to people abroad.</span></p>
  1262. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Horses are simply not meant to live their entire lives in an urban environment like NYC. The carriages they must pull are a very heavy load, and they must pull them all day across hard pavement, which is bad for their hooves and joints. Many drivers force their horses to work even in high temperatures, which have caused a number of horses to collapse while pulling carriages. The horses breathe in exhaust from all the surrounding vehicles, which can lead to respiratory problems. They can be spooked by the many loud sounds characteristic of a large city. In addition to harming themselves, the horses can cause harm to their drivers, passengers, and nearby pedestrians.</span></p>
  1263. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In fact, there have been a large number of accidents involving horse-drawn carriages in NYC. In only the past two years, there have been over twenty reported accidents. These include horses spooking, crashing into taxi cabs, and falling to the ground. These incidents are dangerous to the people around and are clearly dangerous for the horses. It is simply not worth it to endanger so many beautiful animals and the people nearby in order to have horse-drawn carriages.</span></p>
  1264. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Luckily, there are a number of great activists and organizations who are working to ban horse-drawn carriages and help NYC&#8217;s horses. Ashley Byrne has led efforts by <a title="--" href="http://www.peta.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">PETA</a> to educate the public about the condition of carriage horses and bring an end to their suffering. The great activists at <a href="https://nyclass.org/">NY Class</a>, including Allie Feldman, have maintained a growing list of incidents involving horse-drawn carriages and encourage people to take action. The <a title="--" href="https://www.facebook.com/BanHDC" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Coalition to Ban Horse-Drawn Carriages</a>, led by Elizabeth Forel, is organizing to affect a ban on the cruel treatment of horses. In addition, <a title="--" href="http://www.friendsofanimals.org/spay_neuter_certificate_information?gclid=CjwKEAiAw4e1BRDfi7vghaWU9jESJACzo9juPVTO2HYSYLQweycHaA3p32sqW9-ApqPGGQCsFqTqEBoCvr3w_wcB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Friends of Animals</a>, a fantastic organization led by Campaigns Director Edita Birnkrant, has been organizing protests and keeping pressure on the Mayor to enforce a ban.</span></p>
  1265. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are things that you can do to help as well. If you&#8217;re visiting New York City or another city that has horse-drawn carriages, do not pay for a ride in a carriage. It may seem like a memorable experience, but you are only contributing to the cruel treatment of that horse. If everyone were to stop taking carriage rides, the industry would soon collapse on its own. If you live in NYC, you can contact your local legislator and encourage them to support a ban on horse-drawn carriages. In particular, NYC mayor has claimed that he will ban horse-drawn carriages from New York City&#8217;s streets. You can call his office by dialing 311 and ask him to keep his word.</span></p>
  1266. <div><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Horses are suffering every day, and many cannot afford to wait much longer to be freed from animal cruelty. There are many cities, including Key West, Palm Beach, Camden, and Biloxi that have already banned horse-drawn carriages. More and more people are recognizing them as animal cruelty, and enforcing a ban is certainly possible. It&#8217;s time that the residents and politicians of NYC care for their fellow creatures and take steps to end the cruel suffering of the city&#8217;s carriage horses</span></div>
  1267. ]]></content:encoded>
  1269. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2025/03/28/stopping-horse-abuse/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  1270. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  1274. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg" />
  1275. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg" medium="image">
  1276. <media:title type="html">stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324</media:title>
  1277. </media:content>
  1278.  
  1279. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  1280. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  1281. </media:content>
  1282.  
  1283. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c18f2-stop_horse_abuse_animal_rescue_stickers-r21ef9f5608004ce5bfc352bcff4d1264_v9wf3_8byvr_324.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  1284. <media:title type="html">Illustration dipsicting Horse Abuse</media:title>
  1285. </media:content>
  1286. </item>
  1287. <item>
  1288. <title>Be Kind To Animals</title>
  1289. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2025/02/08/be-kind-to-animals/</link>
  1290. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2025/02/08/be-kind-to-animals/#respond</comments>
  1292. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  1293. <pubDate>Sat, 08 Feb 2025 17:07:52 +0000</pubDate>
  1294. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  1295. <category><![CDATA[kindness]]></category>
  1296. <category><![CDATA[Motivation]]></category>
  1297. <category><![CDATA[Vegan]]></category>
  1298. <category><![CDATA[Against Animal Testing]]></category>
  1299. <category><![CDATA[Animal Abuse Awareness]]></category>
  1300. <category><![CDATA[Animal Agriculture Cruelty]]></category>
  1301. <category><![CDATA[animal cruelty]]></category>
  1302. <category><![CDATA[animal rescue]]></category>
  1303. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  1304. <category><![CDATA[Animal Testing Kills]]></category>
  1305. <category><![CDATA[Animals Arent Clothing]]></category>
  1306. <category><![CDATA[Animals Arent Trophies]]></category>
  1307. <category><![CDATA[Animals Feel Pain]]></category>
  1308. <category><![CDATA[Ban Animal Testing]]></category>
  1309. <category><![CDATA[Ban Animal Traps]]></category>
  1310. <category><![CDATA[Ban Factory Farming]]></category>
  1311. <category><![CDATA[Ban Fur Farms]]></category>
  1312. <category><![CDATA[Ban Seal Hunts]]></category>
  1313. <category><![CDATA[Ban Slaughter houses]]></category>
  1314. <category><![CDATA[Choose Compassion]]></category>
  1315. <category><![CDATA[Choose Cruelty Free]]></category>
  1316. <category><![CDATA[Compassion For Animals]]></category>
  1317. <category><![CDATA[Compassion Over Cruelty]]></category>
  1318. <category><![CDATA[Compassion Over Fashion]]></category>
  1319. <category><![CDATA[Cruelty Behind Closed Doors]]></category>
  1320. <category><![CDATA[cruelty free]]></category>
  1321. <category><![CDATA[Ditch Meat]]></category>
  1322. <category><![CDATA[End Animal Cruelty]]></category>
  1323. <category><![CDATA[End Animal Testing]]></category>
  1324. <category><![CDATA[End Breeder Cruelty]]></category>
  1325. <category><![CDATA[End Cock Fighting]]></category>
  1326. <category><![CDATA[End Dog Fighting]]></category>
  1327. <category><![CDATA[End Factory Farming]]></category>
  1328. <category><![CDATA[End Fur Farming]]></category>
  1329. <category><![CDATA[End Seal Slaughter]]></category>
  1330. <category><![CDATA[End Slaughter houses]]></category>
  1331. <category><![CDATA[End Trapping]]></category>
  1332. <category><![CDATA[Factory Farming Kills]]></category>
  1333. <category><![CDATA[Farm Animals Deserve Better]]></category>
  1334. <category><![CDATA[Fur Free Future]]></category>
  1335. <category><![CDATA[Fur Is Cruel]]></category>
  1336. <category><![CDATA[Fur Is Dead]]></category>
  1337. <category><![CDATA[Fur Trade Kills]]></category>
  1338. <category><![CDATA[Go Vegan]]></category>
  1339. <category><![CDATA[Help Stray Animals]]></category>
  1340. <category><![CDATA[Justice For Animals]]></category>
  1341. <category><![CDATA[Live Cruelty Free]]></category>
  1342. <category><![CDATA[Meat Free Future]]></category>
  1343. <category><![CDATA[Meat Industry Abuse]]></category>
  1344. <category><![CDATA[Meat Industry Cruelty]]></category>
  1345. <category><![CDATA[MeatI s Murder]]></category>
  1346. <category><![CDATA[No Excuse For Animal Abuse]]></category>
  1347. <category><![CDATA[No More Slaughter]]></category>
  1348. <category><![CDATA[No Seal Hunting]]></category>
  1349. <category><![CDATA[No To Animal Cruelty]]></category>
  1350. <category><![CDATA[No Traps]]></category>
  1351. <category><![CDATA[Not Tested On Animals]]></category>
  1352. <category><![CDATA[Not Your Meal]]></category>
  1353. <category><![CDATA[Plant Based For Animals]]></category>
  1354. <category><![CDATA[Plant Based For The Planet]]></category>
  1355. <category><![CDATA[Protect Animals]]></category>
  1356. <category><![CDATA[Protect Seals]]></category>
  1357. <category><![CDATA[Report Animal Abuse]]></category>
  1358. <category><![CDATA[Rescue Animals]]></category>
  1359. <category><![CDATA[Save Animal Lives]]></category>
  1360. <category><![CDATA[Save The Animals]]></category>
  1361. <category><![CDATA[Save The Seals]]></category>
  1362. <category><![CDATA[Say No To Factory Farms]]></category>
  1363. <category><![CDATA[Say No To Fur]]></category>
  1364. <category><![CDATA[Say No To Trapping]]></category>
  1365. <category><![CDATA[Seal Hunt Cruelty]]></category>
  1366. <category><![CDATA[Seals Deserve To Live]]></category>
  1367. <category><![CDATA[Slaughter Free Future]]></category>
  1368. <category><![CDATA[Slaughterhouses Are Hell]]></category>
  1369. <category><![CDATA[Speak For Animals]]></category>
  1370. <category><![CDATA[Stop Animal Abuse]]></category>
  1371. <category><![CDATA[Stop Animal Exploitation]]></category>
  1372. <category><![CDATA[Stop Animal Slaughter]]></category>
  1373. <category><![CDATA[Stop Animal Testing]]></category>
  1374. <category><![CDATA[Stop Animal Trapping]]></category>
  1375. <category><![CDATA[Stop Killing Animals]]></category>
  1376. <category><![CDATA[Stop Puppy Mills]]></category>
  1377. <category><![CDATA[Stop Seal Hunting]]></category>
  1378. <category><![CDATA[Their Lives Matter]]></category>
  1379. <category><![CDATA[Trap Free Future]]></category>
  1380. <category><![CDATA[Trapping Is Cruel]]></category>
  1381. <category><![CDATA[Vegan For The Animals]]></category>
  1382. <category><![CDATA[Wildlife Deserves Freedom]]></category>
  1383. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=11329</guid>
  1384.  
  1385. <description><![CDATA[Once in a while, each of us have come across a form of cruelty to animals such as seal hunts, animal testing, fur farming, factory farming, trapping, hunting, etc. For many, they don’t recognize it as much of a big deal, but for people like me, animal cruelty is something that shouldn’t exist. The purpose [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1386. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="show-more-less-text">
  1387. <p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1bbfa-images.png"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="11331" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/images-2/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1bbfa-images.png" data-orig-size="225,225" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="images" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1bbfa-images.png?w=225" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1bbfa-images.png?w=225" class="alignnone wp-image-11331 size-full" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1bbfa-images.png?w=616" alt="An image saying to Animal Cruelty."   srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1bbfa-images.png 225w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1bbfa-images.png?w=150&amp;h=150 150w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /></a></p>
  1388. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Once in a while, each of us have come across a form of cruelty to animals such as seal hunts, animal testing, fur farming, factory farming, trapping, hunting, etc. For many, they don’t recognize it as much of a big deal, but for people like me, animal cruelty is something that shouldn’t exist. The purpose of this article is to help you see how much easier it is to be kind to God’s wonderful creations.</span></p>
  1389. </div>
  1390. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>What is Animal Cruelty?</strong></span></p>
  1391. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Animal cruelty is the act of meeting out unpleasant treatment to animals by depriving them of food, shelter, and veterinary care. Also, torturing, maiming and killing of animals is considered animal cruelty. To fully understand the scope of animal cruelty, one has to put the numbers behind this form of abuse in perspective. Some of these numbers have been listed below;</span></p>
  1392. <ul>
  1393. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Roughly 85% of people arrested for animal abuse or cruelty has had multiple arrests in the past, with 70% having past felonies. So, if they have done it in the past, it’s likely they might do it again.</span></li>
  1394. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Men are more likely to abuse animals than women with a ratio of 4:1 in almost all types of animal abuse.</span></li>
  1395. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Less than 0.01% of animal abuse carried out are reported, annually. Consequently, this makes it hard to get a credible estimation of how many animals die from animal cruelty, yearly.</span></li>
  1396. </ul>
  1397. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Animal cruelty has manifested itself in several ways such as fur farming, seal hunting, vivisection, animal testing, slaughterhouses and trapping, and has been muddied several times by different school of thoughts on what extent it has been perpetrated. However, the truth remains that animals across the world hasn’t been treated fairly by a lot of people.</span></p>
  1398. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The greatest sorrow and distress lie in the huge betrayal that these voiceless animals have to face, trusting us and looking up to us for protection, and often turning up to us with a love so unconditional and unlimited. To see this trust being broken in these insensitive and vicious ways is just so tragic to watch. It almost becomes impossible not to visualize the excessive bewilderment and deep-rooted fear they must go through when hands, so supposed to be used for giving nourishment and comfort, become tools for inflicting pain and torture.</span></p>
  1399. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The thing is, cruelty to animals comes in so many varied forms and manners that are really disturbing. It is not all about intentional acts of violence or aggressiveness; sometimes, it takes the form of acts of neglect-essentially, a failure to provide the basic care required by animals in order for them to live healthy and happy lives. Neglect is indeed one of the most common forms of cruelty found in our society, where animals are left to their fates without food, water, adequate shelter, or proper medical attention. A dog being starved in an enclosed backyard, alone and unattended, while a cat was thrown out into life in the open wild-these are just some disturbing forms of cruelty largely unnoticed by most of humanity. Of course, there is also the physical maltreatment of animals, which usually represents the maltreatment most people associate with the more general concept of cruelty to animals. The beatings, kickings, burning, and other acts devised to injure animals leave scars well beyond what can be detected on their physical bodies. The psychological damage of such abuse can leave these animals anxious, frightened, or even aggressive because of the traumatic experience.</span></p>
  1400. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Then there’s exploitation, another form of cruelty that many of the populace often overlook. The animals used in circuses, races, and other forms of entertainment are often put through very unnatural and cruel training and are housed under conditions wholly unacceptable. These animals are not entertainers who show humans a good time; they are flesh and blood living creatures that ought to be treated with utmost dignity and respect. And they shall not, under all circumstances, be used for exploitative practices either for profit or entertainment.</span></p>
  1401. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Even the systems on which many of us base our livelihoods have become major contributors to the problem in their own right. Consider factory farming: this is clearly a source of immense suffering and distress for a great many animals. The animals experience everything from confinement in small cages in which they can hardly move to painful procedures conducted without any form of anesthesia to deaden the pain, thus leaving the animals to lead a life full of misery and torture from start to finish. For many of us-especially those of us who find ourselves regularly in and out of grocery stores-it becomes all too easy to forget about this cruelty and suffering that is taking place when it is hidden behind the neatly arranged products on supermarket shelves. The grim, undeniable reality of these practices is, in fact, so depressing and deserving of our attention.</span></p>
  1402. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Also, let us not forget poaching and illicit trade in wild animals: it terrorizes whole species and brings immense agony to certain animals-elephants brutally killed for their tusks, tigers sought for their skin, and the list goes on. They all are victims of an industry which is fueled by greed and does not care about their right to life.</span></p>
  1403. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It takes courage to come out into the open and face those bitter and usually uninviting truths. These animals can’t speak for themselves regarding their needs or feelings; therefore, we must be the ones speaking on their behalf. Every cruelty witnessed reminds us how long the road remains ahead in this collective quest for a world that actually has treated animals with the compassion, kindness, and respect they so rightly deserve. And yet, beyond the importance of such samples, the question touches only the most superficial layer of the problem in view and brings us to an even graver and more urgent issue we must face: What steps can be taken, or even ought to be taken, as a countermove?</span></p>
  1404. <div class="show-more-less-text">
  1405. <p><strong>Being Kind to Animals</strong></p>
  1406. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Statistically, an animal goes through abuse every minute in the US. An estimated 10 million die yearly in the US due to animal cruelty. These statistics sadly show the sad fate of animals in the US and around the world. Such lovely creatures who are meant to receive love and care are instead faced with the harsh realities of unkindness from humans. These unkind acts jeopardise their health and constantly put them in harm’s way, and despite efforts made to protect animal rights, there’s still no end in sight.</span></p>
  1407. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Animal cruelty can manifest itself in different ways which can be intentional or unintentional.  For example, a practice called animal hoarding affects about 250,000 animals yearly, with most living in unsanitary conditions. Another example shows that 75% of exotic animals taken out of their natural habitat (which might be a harmless practice to save them) die within the first year. This highlights the impact that our seemingly “small” actions have on animals.</span></p>
  1408. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">As humans we tend to classify ourselves as beings of higher intellect than these animals, but oftentimes act cruelly towards them. Think of humans as big brothers to these animals, what does this mean for us, then? It means that we have a responsibility to protect them and be kind to them. It means that we shouldn’t do harmful stuff to them just for laughs or be unnecessarily cruel to them for the sake of it.</span></p>
  1409. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you hop on to the net these days, it’s easy to find various videos of animal’s cruelty, and these videos break my heart. Most times when I come across these videos, I’m filled with pain in my heart that stems from my inability to rescue these animals and show them all the love and care they deserve. However, the responsibility to be kinder to animals shouldn’t be the work of one person alone. That’s why I’m appealing to each and every one of you reading this article to make conscious efforts to be kinder to animals around you.</span></p>
  1410. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being kind to animals doesn’t take much from one. You can start by showing that animal in your vicinity a bit more of care. Don’t kick them for no reason, report to the authorities if you find someone putting them in harm’s way, don’t hoard animals for the sake of it. It’s a one step process that will snowball into something bigger if we all play our parts.</span></p>
  1411. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Making conscious efforts to recognise and prevent animal abuse should be something every human strives for. We can hold each other accountable for how we treat animals around us. Turning a blind eye to animal abuse makes you as culpable for the act as the person carrying out the actual abuse. Animals can feel and understand, and it’s sad to see them been treated like they don’t matter. So, take a bold step to become kinder to animals around you, call out animal cruelty, and stand firmly with those that believe all animals are deserving of kindness.</span></p>
  1412. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being kind to animals can make a whole lot of difference for you and for them. Be kind to these beautiful creatures and educate others on the need to be kind to them, also. It’s a gradual step but I pray we eventually get to see a world where kindness to animals prevails.</span></p>
  1413. </div>
  1414. ]]></content:encoded>
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  1423. <media:title type="html">images</media:title>
  1424. </media:content>
  1425.  
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  1427. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  1428. </media:content>
  1429. </item>
  1430. <item>
  1431. <title>Stomach Cancer: What It Is and Everything You Need to Know</title>
  1432. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/12/10/stomach-cancer-what-it-is-and-everything-you-need-to-know/</link>
  1433. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/12/10/stomach-cancer-what-it-is-and-everything-you-need-to-know/#comments</comments>
  1435. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  1436. <pubDate>Tue, 10 Dec 2024 12:30:44 +0000</pubDate>
  1437. <category><![CDATA[cancer]]></category>
  1438. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  1439. <category><![CDATA[Adenocarcinoma of the stomach:]]></category>
  1440. <category><![CDATA[Black stool]]></category>
  1441. <category><![CDATA[Bloating after eating]]></category>
  1442. <category><![CDATA[blood in vomit]]></category>
  1443. <category><![CDATA[Cancer Education and Awareness]]></category>
  1444. <category><![CDATA[Cancer Research Updates]]></category>
  1445. <category><![CDATA[Causes of Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1446. <category><![CDATA[Chemotherapy]]></category>
  1447. <category><![CDATA[Clinical trials]]></category>
  1448. <category><![CDATA[Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1449. <category><![CDATA[Difficulty in swallowing]]></category>
  1450. <category><![CDATA[Digestive System Health]]></category>
  1451. <category><![CDATA[Early Signs of Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1452. <category><![CDATA[Endoscopic mucosal resection]]></category>
  1453. <category><![CDATA[fatigue]]></category>
  1454. <category><![CDATA[Feeling full]]></category>
  1455. <category><![CDATA[Gastric Cancer]]></category>
  1456. <category><![CDATA[Gastric Cancer Prevention]]></category>
  1457. <category><![CDATA[Gastric Cancer Symptoms]]></category>
  1458. <category><![CDATA[Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST)]]></category>
  1459. <category><![CDATA[heartburn]]></category>
  1460. <category><![CDATA[How To Cope with Stomach Cancer.]]></category>
  1461. <category><![CDATA[Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC)]]></category>
  1462. <category><![CDATA[Immunotherapy]]></category>
  1463. <category><![CDATA[Living with Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1464. <category><![CDATA[Managing Gastric Cancer]]></category>
  1465. <category><![CDATA[Primary gastric lymphoma:]]></category>
  1466. <category><![CDATA[Prognosis of Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1467. <category><![CDATA[Radiation therapy]]></category>
  1468. <category><![CDATA[Risk Factors Associated with Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1469. <category><![CDATA[Risk Factors for Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1470. <category><![CDATA[stomach cancer]]></category>
  1471. <category><![CDATA[Stomach Cancer Awareness]]></category>
  1472. <category><![CDATA[Stomach Cancer Diagnosis]]></category>
  1473. <category><![CDATA[Stomach Cancer Support]]></category>
  1474. <category><![CDATA[Stomach Cancer Treatment]]></category>
  1475. <category><![CDATA[Stomach Carcinoma]]></category>
  1476. <category><![CDATA[stomach pain]]></category>
  1477. <category><![CDATA[Surgery]]></category>
  1478. <category><![CDATA[Symptoms of Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1479. <category><![CDATA[Targeted therapy]]></category>
  1480. <category><![CDATA[tomach Health Tips]]></category>
  1481. <category><![CDATA[Types of Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1482. <category><![CDATA[Understanding Stomach Cancer]]></category>
  1483. <category><![CDATA[Unexplained Weight Loss]]></category>
  1484. <category><![CDATA[weakness]]></category>
  1485. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8998</guid>
  1486.  
  1487. <description><![CDATA[An Introduction to Stomach Cancer: What It Is and Everything You Need to Know Introduction Six years ago, I came in terms with reality that I was about to lose one of the most important people in my life, my beloved mom; Shirley Savitree. For two-year years, I watched my dear mother battle against an [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1488. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/90d36-illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="9002" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/90d36-illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034.jpg" data-orig-size="826,829" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/90d36-illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/90d36-illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-9002 " src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/90d36-illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034.jpg?w=271&#038;h=272" alt="Image of a Diagram showing Stomach Cancer." width="271" height="272" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/90d36-illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034.jpg?w=271&amp;h=272 271w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/90d36-illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034.jpg?w=542&amp;h=544 542w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/90d36-illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/90d36-illustrated-infographic-stomach-cancer-abnormal-cell-growth_1308-157034.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w" sizes="(max-width: 271px) 100vw, 271px" /></a></p>
  1489. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>An Introduction to Stomach Cancer: What It Is and Everything You Need to Know</strong></span></p>
  1490. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Introduction </strong></span></p>
  1491. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Six years ago, I came in terms with reality that I was about to lose one of the most important people in my life, my beloved mom; Shirley Savitree. For two-year years, I watched my dear mother battle against an ailment that drained her piece by piece, and no matter how much she tried, the pain and suffering didn’t go away. On February 6th, 2018, my mother went to be with God as she lost her battle with stomach cancer. </span></p>
  1492. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Over the years, I have sought to understand as much as possible about stomach cancer, it’s nature and things that can be done to combat it. I have labouredly read through articles, books, report, and many more to gain full insight on stomach cancer. Stomach cancer is the 5<sup>th</sup> most common cancer in the world, and accounts for 1.3% of new cancer cases worldwide. It’s of little surprise, that attention is given to disseminate information on what one can look out for when it comes to stomach cancer.</span></p>
  1493. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">While, gastric cancer –like most cancers–isn’t exactly a death sentence, but a person’s survival rate declines the more time the cancer spends undiscovered. This article will touch on several key aspects of the discourse about stomach cancer. The objective of this article is to ensure that by the time you get to the last word of this article, you will have a good example of what stomach cancer is, the types of stomach cancer, how to recognize the signs early enough, what options are available to you if you are battling with stomach cancer, and things that can put you at risk for stomach cancer.</span></p>
  1494. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s time to introduce to the wonderful thing that is “An Introduction to Stomach Cancer: What is It and Everything You Need to Know.”</span></p>
  1495. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Anatomy of The Stomach</strong></span></p>
  1496. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">To fully understand stomach cancer and its effects, one would will need to understand the anatomy of the organ it affects. To achieve this, we will take a look at the anatomy of the stomach in the first part of this article.</span></p>
  1497. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The stomach is a J-shaped muscular organ that digests food. This is achieved by a mix of enzymes and acids which are produced in the stomach, which then act on the food you eat to break them down before passage to the small intestine.</span></p>
  1498. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The stomach is part of the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract). The GI tract is a long tube which begins at the mouth and terminates at the anus. This tract is considered a very important part of the digestive system.</span></p>
  1499. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The stomach sits in the upper abdominal region by the left of the body. The top of the stomach connects to a valve known as esophageal sphincter, and the bottom connects with the small intestine.</span></p>
  1500. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The stomach is divided into five parts, namely:</span></p>
  1501. <ol>
  1502. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>The Cardia:</strong> This is the top part of the stomach. It contains the cardiac sphincter, whose main function is to prevent food from travelling back into esophagus.</span></li>
  1503. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>The Fundus:</strong> The fundus is the rounded section next to the Cardia. It’s located right below the diaphragm.</span></li>
  1504. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>The Corpus:</strong> Also known as the body, is the largest section of the stomach. This section of the stomach contracts, and this is where mixing of the food takes place.</span></li>
  1505. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>The Antrum:</strong> This lies below the Corpus. It acts as a temporary storage place for food until the small intestine is ready to receive the food.</span></li>
  1506. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>The Pylorus:</strong> This is bottom part of the stomach. It contains the pyloric sphincter, which controls how and when the content of your stomach enters the small intestine.</span></li>
  1507. </ol>
  1508. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">To further understand the stomach, we will also examine the structure of the stomach. The stomach is made of four layers of muscles and tissues. These include;</span></p>
  1509. <ul>
  1510. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Serosa:</strong> The Serosa is a fatty membrane that acts as a cover over the stomach, and offer some sort of protection to it.</span></li>
  1511. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Muscularis External:</strong> This is the primary and most external muscle of the stomach. It is in itself made up of three layers, which contracts and relaxes rhythmically to break down food in the stomach.</span></li>
  1512. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Submucosa:</strong> This layer of the stomach contains blood vessels, connective tissues, and nerve cells. It also offers protection to the innermost layer of the stomach, the Mucosa.</span></li>
  1513. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Mucosa:</strong> The Mucosa is the innermost lining of the stomach. The structure of the mucosa varies depending on whether your stomach is full or empathy. When empty, the mucosa has small ridges called “rugae”, but when full the stomach expands and these ridges flatten.</span></li>
  1514. </ul>
  1515. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The last aspect of the stomach you should understand are the functions of the stomach. The functions of the stomach include;</span></p>
  1516. <ol>
  1517. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Temporarily store for food</span></li>
  1518. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Contraction and relaxation to break down food</span></li>
  1519. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Production of enzymes and acids to digest food.</span></li>
  1520. </ol>
  1521. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Now, we have fully explored what the stomach looks like and its function, it’s time to take the next step and explore what stomach cancer is. If you have read up till this point, then it’s obvious you are curious for more, and that is exactly what I’m offering in the next section.</span></p>
  1522. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>What is Stomach Cancer? </strong></span></p>
  1523. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you were to conduct a survey and ask people if they have had of stomach cancer or gastric cancer, a great number of them will respond in positive, but when narrowed down and asked if they are, that number decreases significantly. Many people have poor knowledge of cancer, and more specifically, gastric cancer, and aside from knowing it’s a depleting ailment, they know very much little else about stomach cancer. So, the question is; what is stomach cancer?</span></p>
  1524. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a cancer that affects the lining of the stomach. It’s basically the uncontrollable growth of cells originating from the stomach. It commonly affects he Corpus (body) of the stomach. However, in some countries, it can originate mainly from other sections of the stomach. For example, in the United States, cases of stomach cancer mainly arise from the gastrophageal junction, that is the part where the esophagus meets with stomach.</span></p>
  1525. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Primarily, stomach cancer starts from the inner linings of T stomach before extending outward. Its progress is slow, but if left unchecked can become a mass tumour and affect nearby organs such as the liver and pancreas.</span></p>
  1526. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Types of Stomach Cancer</strong></span></p>
  1527. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Just “knowing” about stomach cancer or stomach carcinoma, can keep you on alert to seek out help when you sense something. However, just knowing what stomach cancer is, isn’t enough. To help on our quest to know more about stomach cancer, the types of stomach cancer have been outlined for you below.</span></p>
  1528. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The type of stomach cancer include;</span></p>
  1529. <ol>
  1530. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Adenocarcinoma of the stomach:</strong> This type of stomach cancer begins in the mucus-producing cells in the innermost linings of the stomach. It’s important to note that nearly all cases of stomach cancers are adenocarcinomas. This type of stomach cancer is further classified into two, namely; Gastric cardia cancer (begins at the top notch of the stomach, where the stomach meets the oesophagus) and non-gastric cardia cancer (begins in all other sections of the stomach). They can be also defined as intestinal or diffuse, depending on how the cancerous cells look under a microscope</span></li>
  1531. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Gastrointestinal neuroendocrine tumour:</strong> This type of cancer begins in the neuroendocrine cells that line the GIT. Neuroendocrine cells are cells that function as both a nerve cells and hormone-producing cell.</span></li>
  1532. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GIST):</strong> This cancer is found in the stomach and other parts of the digestive system. It’s classified as a form of soft-tissue sarcoma.</span></li>
  1533. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Primary gastric lymphoma:</strong> This type of cancer is a non-Hodgkin lymphoma (a form of cancer where cancer cells form in the lymph system). The most common cases are mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT), gastric lymphoma or diffuse B-cell lymphoma of the stomach</span></li>
  1534. </ol>
  1535. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Having knowledge of the types of stomach cancer will help you know what to expect with each one. If you are still interested till this point, there’s every reason to believe that you will be interested in the next part.</span></p>
  1536. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Symptoms of Stomach Cancer</strong></span></p>
  1537. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Before we start and you get to see the symptoms of stomach gastric cancer, it’s important to state that having one or two symptoms of stomach cancer isn’t a definitive reason to conclude that one can have stomach cancer. For every disease condition, symptoms are quite similar and if one isn’t sure about them, they could start feeling agitated for no reason. A bulk of stomach cancer symptoms are common symptoms associated with other non-life-threatening diseases, and it’s wise to note how long the symptoms have lasted and the combination of the symptoms before suspecting a thing. If you feel you could have stomach cancer, see your doctor immediately.</span></p>
  1538. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Let’s get right into it. Symptoms of stomach cancer include, but are not limited to;</span></p>
  1539. <ol>
  1540. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Difficulty in swallowing</span></li>
  1541. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Black stool</span></li>
  1542. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Blood in vomit</span></li>
  1543. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Stomach pain, often above the umbilical region</span></li>
  1544. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Feeling full especially after eating very little</span></li>
  1545. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Bloating after eating</span></li>
  1546. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Fatigue or weakness</span></li>
  1547. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Unexplained weight loss</span></li>
  1548. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Heartburn</span></li>
  1549. </ol>
  1550. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s important to note if you notice a symptom and don’t feel comfortable with it, see your doctor as soon as possible. Early detection of gastric cancer improves the chances of survival of anyone significantly. You should also note that stomach cancer doesn’t present with symptoms until it’s quite advanced, so as soon you notice any symptoms that you feel might be stomach cancer report to your doctor, immediately.</span></p>
  1551. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Causes of Stomach Cancer</strong></span></p>
  1552. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Researchers believe that gastric cancer is caused by a mutation in DNA, however, they aren’t certain on what causes this mutation. The process suggested by researchers is that stomach cancer begins when the inner linings of the stomach are hurt by something, (My mother suffered brutal punches to the stomach by her cruel abuser). As a result of this damage to that area of the stomach, it causes the cells to alter their DNA structure. This alteration triggers rapid and uncontrollable growth of the cells in the stomach. These cells keep on living even when healthy cells have died off in accordance with your natural lifecycle. This causes a lot of extra cells to exist in the area, giving rise to a tumour.</span></p>
  1553. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These cancer cells might become invasive and start attacking nearby tissues. With time, these cancer cells eat deeper into the wall of the stomach and spreads. If left unchecked, they break away from the stomach wall and spread to other organs of the body. When this happens, it’s called metastasis.</span></p>
  1554. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Although, there are no definite cause of stomach cancer, there are risk factors that can predispose you to developing stomach cancer. These risk factors will be explored in the next heading.</span></p>
  1555. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Risk Factors Associated with Stomach Cancer</strong></span></p>
  1556. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are several risk factors that can cause one to develop stomach cancer. Different risk factors can increase the risk of stomach cancer at different areas of the stomach. For example, <em>Heobacter Pylori (H.Pylori) </em>increases the risk in the lower and middle part of the stomach. Obesity increases the risk of stomach cancer in the upper part of the stomach.</span></p>
  1557. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Risk factors associated with stomach cancer, include;</span></p>
  1558. <ol>
  1559. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Pylori: Chronic H.pylori infection can lead to development of atrophic gastritis, this could lead to severe changes in the lining of the stomach which subsequently results to stomach cancer or gastric MALT lymphoma.</span></li>
  1560. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Chronic atrophic gastritis</span></li>
  1561. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Atrophic gastritis with intestinal metaplasia</span></li>
  1562. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Epstein-Barr virus infection</span></li>
  1563. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Pernicious anaemia</span></li>
  1564. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Obesity</span></li>
  1565. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Gastrophageal reflux disease</span></li>
  1566. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A history of stomach cancer in a first-degree family member such as mother, father, siblings, or child.</span></li>
  1567. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A family cancer syndrome such as; familial intestinal gastric cancer (FIGC), gastric adenocarcinoma and proximal polyposis of the stomach (GAPPS), hereditary diffuse gastric cancer (HDGC), juvenile polyposis syndrome, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, Lynch syndrome, and, Peutz-Jeughers syndrome.</span></li>
  1568. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Type A blood</span></li>
  1569. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A diet of low vegetables and fruits while being high in salt and smoked food</span></li>
  1570. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Poorly preserved food</span></li>
  1571. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Smoking</span></li>
  1572. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Working in a rubber or coal industry</span></li>
  1573. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Exposure to high level of radiation</span></li>
  1574. </ol>
  1575. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being among individuals at risk of stomach cancer doesn’t mean you will eventually develop stomach carcinoma. Plenty of people while being at risk of stomach cancer don’t develop one, and many people who are at risk of stomach cancer end up with one.</span></p>
  1576. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Diagnosis of Stomach Cancer</strong></span></p>
  1577. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">When it comes to diagnosing gastric cancer, two goals are hoped to be achieved. The first is to diagnose the presence of a stomach cancer, and the second is the staging of the gastric cancer (diagnosis carried out to know which stage the cancer is at). Before a full diagnosis is carried out, your doctor might ask you a couple of questions and carry out some examinations to know if your symptoms are specific to stomach cancer. These questions might include;</span></p>
  1578. <ul>
  1579. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Your personal and family risk</span></li>
  1580. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Carry out a physical examination</span></li>
  1581. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Run some tests to check for anaemia</span></li>
  1582. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Check your stool for occult blood</span></li>
  1583. </ul>
  1584. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The results of your doctor’s prior results will determine which tests he might recommend for the diagnosis. These tests include;</span></p>
  1585. <ul>
  1586. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Upper endoscopy with biopsy:</strong> This is a procedure used to view inside the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, with the help of a thin lighted tube. It is carried to search for abnormalities in these areas that may suggest the presence of a carcinoma. A tissue sample might be collected from the area for further testing.</span></li>
  1587. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Barium swallow:</strong> In barium swallow, the patient swallows a small amount of liquid containing barium, which coats the inside of esophagus and stomach which makes it visible during X-rays.</span></li>
  1588. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">CT scan</span></li>
  1589. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Biomarker testing:</strong> Biomarker testing is designed to test for genes, proteins, and other substances (also called biomarkers, or tumour markers) that can provide information about cancer. These biomarkers can affect how cancer grows and how cancer treatments are carried out. They will serve as a key measure for you and your doctor when it comes to picking the right cancer treatment for you. These biomarkers include; HER2, PD-L1, Microsatellite instability, Mismatch repair deficiency, Tumour mutational burden, NTRK</span></li>
  1590. </ul>
  1591. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These tests are carried to confirm a diagnosis of gastric cancer. After a diagnosis of stomach cancer, the next step is staging the cancer. These tests are carried out to stage stomach cancer;</span></p>
  1592. <ul>
  1593. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Endoscopic sounding:</strong> In this procedure, an endoscope is passed through the mouth of anus, and high-energy sound waves off internal organs and tissues. The echoes form a picture of the body tissue called sonography</span></li>
  1594. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>PET-CT scan:</strong> This is a combination positron emission tomography (PET) scan and a computed tomography (CT) scan. Both scans are carried out and on the same machine, and offers a more detailed image than either scan can offer alone.</span></li>
  1595. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with gadolinium:</strong> Gadolinium is injected through the vein, and they collect around the cancer cells. They subsequently appear brighter in the imaging.</span></li>
  1596. </ul>
  1597. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is important to note that proper diagnosis and staging is important to ensure proper treatment. It should be carried as thorough as possible, and early enough.</span></p>
  1598. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Stages of Stomach Cancer</strong></span></p>
  1599. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Stomach cancer is broken into four stages. These stages determine the extent of the cancer in your body, such as the size of the growth, if the cancer has spread, and how far the cancer has spread. The stages include;</span></p>
  1600. <ol>
  1601. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Stage 0 (Carcinoma in-situ):</span></li>
  1602. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Stage 1, further divided into stage 1A and stage 1B</span></li>
  1603. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Stage 2, further divided into stage 2A and stage 2B</span></li>
  1604. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Stage 3, further divided into stage 3A, 3B, and 3C.</span></li>
  1605. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Stage 4</span></li>
  1606. </ol>
  1607. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In some cases, a last stage is added. This stage is added if the cancer returns after it has been treated. The stage is called recurrent stomach cancer. Although, the cancer returns anywhere in the body, not primarily in the stomach.</span></p>
  1608. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Treatment</strong></span></p>
  1609. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Different treatment modules are available for treatment if stomach cancer. It’s up to you and your care team to sit and decide on the best option for you. A treatment plan might include more than one type of treatment type. Before deciding on a treatment, several factors such as stage of cancer, your overall health, and preferences will be considered. Also, your treatment plan will carry information about your cancer, goals of treatment, treatment duration, treatment options, and possible side effects.</span></p>
  1610. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Treatments for stomach cancer include;</span></p>
  1611. <ul>
  1612. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Endoscopic mucosal resection</span></li>
  1613. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Surgery</span></li>
  1614. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Radiation therapy</span></li>
  1615. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Chemotherapy</span></li>
  1616. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Targeted therapy</span></li>
  1617. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Immunotherapy</span></li>
  1618. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC)</span></li>
  1619. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Clinical trials</span></li>
  1620. </ul>
  1621. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Prognosis of Stomach Cancer</strong></span></p>
  1622. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The survival rate of stomach is measured using the 5-years relative scale. To explain in simple terms, it means the likelihood of a person suffering from stomach cancer to be alive in 5 years compared to someone without stomach cancer. The 5-year relative survival rate for different forms of cancers are;</span></p>
  1623. <ul>
  1624. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">75% for localized stomach cancer</span></li>
  1625. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">35% for regional stomach cancer</span></li>
  1626. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">7% for metastatic stomach cancer.</span></li>
  1627. </ul>
  1628. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Survival rates doesn’t mean that everyone suffering from stomach cancer will have the same survival chance. Yours might be higher, and full recovery can even be made from advanced stages. Individuals differ, and it’s best you keep in touch with your healthcare team throughout the course of treatment?</span></p>
  1629. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>How To Cope with Stomach Cancer.</strong></span></p>
  1630. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Getting diagnosed with stomach carcinoma can be life altering moment. It is bound to cause significant physical and emotional side effects. Your first thought might be how to cope with the sudden change in your life. The first step is trusting your care team and talking extensively to them about the problem. I have also outlined ways that might help you cope better with stomach cancer. These methods include;</span></p>
  1631. <ul>
  1632. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A change in eating habits and nutrition, as you might cut down on the amount of food you eat, and the type of food you eat. Also, you might be advised to sit upright for a while after meals.</span></li>
  1633. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You have to understand that you aren’t alone, and try not to allow the sudden changes in your appearance as a result of the cancer and treatment affect your body image.</span></li>
  1634. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Planning and scheduling your meetings will help you cope better with follow-up care.</span></li>
  1635. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The rising cost of treatment might be a huge burden. You can seek out resources and grans to help you fund these treatments.</span></li>
  1636. </ul>
  1637. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Conclusion </strong></span></p>
  1638. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">My precious mother had an unsuccessful battle with stomach cancer. She went through a lot of pain, suffering and abuse in her life before exiting this world as a result of an cruel, abusive, narcissistic</span> <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">psychopath and her stomach carcinoma. It doesn’t have to be that way for you. This article was written to make sure you have a full picture of what you are going through, or your loved ones are. It’s best to surround yourself with those who love and care for you at such difficult moments. Stomach cancer is not a death sentence, and proper treatment will have back on your feet in no time.</span></p>
  1639. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>References </strong></span></p>
  1640. <ol>
  1641. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Gastric cancer (adult). Mayo Clinic; 2020.</span></li>
  1642. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Gastric cancer. National Comprehensive Cancer Network. <a href="https://www.nccn.org/guidelines/guidelines-detail?category=1&#038;id=1434" rel="nofollow">https://www.nccn.org/guidelines/guidelines-detail?category=1&#038;id=1434</a>. Accessed July 22, 2022.</span></li>
  1643. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Niederhuber JE, et al., eds. Cancer of the stomach. In: Abeloff&#8217;s Clinical Oncology. 6th ed. Elsevier; 2020. <a href="https://www.clinicalkey.com" rel="nofollow">https://www.clinicalkey.com</a>. Accessed July 22, 2022.</span></li>
  1644. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Gastric cancer treatment (PDQ). National Cancer Institute. <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/types/stomach/patient/stomach-treatment-pdq" rel="nofollow">https://www.cancer.gov/types/stomach/patient/stomach-treatment-pdq</a>. Accessed July 22, 2022.</span></li>
  1645. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Gastric (stomach) cancer prevention (PDQ). National Cancer Institute. <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/types/stomach/patient/stomach-prevention-pdq" rel="nofollow">https://www.cancer.gov/types/stomach/patient/stomach-prevention-pdq</a>. Accessed July 22, 2022.</span></li>
  1646. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Choi IJ, Kim CG, Lee JY, et al. Family history of gastric cancer and (<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31995688/" rel="nofollow">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31995688/</a>)Helicobacter pylori (<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31995688/" rel="nofollow">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31995688/</a>) treatment. (<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31995688/" rel="nofollow">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31995688/</a>)N Engl J Med. 2020;382(5):427-436. Accessed 5/17/2022.</span></li>
  1647. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Deng W, Jin L, Zhuo H, Vasiliou V, Zhang Y. Alcohol consumption and risk of stomach cancer: a meta-analysis. (<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33412155/" rel="nofollow">https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33412155/</a>)Chem Biol Interact. 2021;336:109365. Accessed 5/17/2022.</span></li>
  1648. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">National Cancer Institute. Gastric Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)–Patient Version. (<a href="https://www.cancer.gov/types/stomach/hp/stomach-treatment-pdq#_163_toc" rel="nofollow">https://www.cancer.gov/types/stomach/hp/stomach-treatment-pdq#_163_toc</a>) Accessed 5/17/2022.</span></li>
  1649. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">National Cancer Institute. Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program. Stomach Cancer. (<a href="https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/stomach.html" rel="nofollow">https://seer.cancer.gov/statfacts/html/stomach.html</a>)Accessed 5/17/2022.</span></li>
  1650. </ol>
  1651. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  1652. ]]></content:encoded>
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  1655. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
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  1660. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  1661. </media:content>
  1662.  
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  1664. <media:title type="html">Image of a Diagram showing Stomach Cancer.</media:title>
  1665. </media:content>
  1666. </item>
  1667. <item>
  1668. <title>Breaking Down the Stigma: Living with Schizophrenia</title>
  1669. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/12/10/breaking-down-the-stigma-living-with-schizophrenia/</link>
  1670. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/12/10/breaking-down-the-stigma-living-with-schizophrenia/#respond</comments>
  1672. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  1673. <pubDate>Tue, 10 Dec 2024 12:30:15 +0000</pubDate>
  1674. <category><![CDATA[Brain health]]></category>
  1675. <category><![CDATA[Emotional Health]]></category>
  1676. <category><![CDATA[Motivation]]></category>
  1677. <category><![CDATA[self care]]></category>
  1678. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  1679. <category><![CDATA[Breaking Mental Health Stigmas]]></category>
  1680. <category><![CDATA[Catatonic schizophrenia]]></category>
  1681. <category><![CDATA[Causes of Schizophrenia]]></category>
  1682. <category><![CDATA[Coping With Schizophrenia]]></category>
  1683. <category><![CDATA[delusions]]></category>
  1684. <category><![CDATA[Disorganized schizophrenia]]></category>
  1685. <category><![CDATA[Disorganized speech]]></category>
  1686. <category><![CDATA[Empowerment]]></category>
  1687. <category><![CDATA[Hallucinations]]></category>
  1688. <category><![CDATA[Living with schizophrenia]]></category>
  1689. <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
  1690. <category><![CDATA[Mental Health Advocacy]]></category>
  1691. <category><![CDATA[Mental health resources]]></category>
  1692. <category><![CDATA[Mental Health Stigma]]></category>
  1693. <category><![CDATA[Mental Illness Education]]></category>
  1694. <category><![CDATA[MentalHealthAwareness]]></category>
  1695. <category><![CDATA[MentalHealthMatters]]></category>
  1696. <category><![CDATA[Overcoming Stigma]]></category>
  1697. <category><![CDATA[Paranoid schizophrenia]]></category>
  1698. <category><![CDATA[Prevalence of Schizophrenia]]></category>
  1699. <category><![CDATA[Prognosis of Schizophrenia]]></category>
  1700. <category><![CDATA[psychosis]]></category>
  1701. <category><![CDATA[Residual schizophrenia]]></category>
  1702. <category><![CDATA[schizophrenia]]></category>
  1703. <category><![CDATA[Schizophrenia and Society]]></category>
  1704. <category><![CDATA[Schizophrenia Awareness]]></category>
  1705. <category><![CDATA[Schizophrenia Facts]]></category>
  1706. <category><![CDATA[Schizophrenia Support]]></category>
  1707. <category><![CDATA[stigma]]></category>
  1708. <category><![CDATA[Stigma-Free Mental Health]]></category>
  1709. <category><![CDATA[Supporting Mental Wellness]]></category>
  1710. <category><![CDATA[Survivor]]></category>
  1711. <category><![CDATA[Symptoms of schizophrenia]]></category>
  1712. <category><![CDATA[Treatment of Schizophrenia]]></category>
  1713. <category><![CDATA[truth]]></category>
  1714. <category><![CDATA[Types of Schizophrenia]]></category>
  1715. <category><![CDATA[Understanding schizophrenia]]></category>
  1716. <category><![CDATA[Undifferentiated schizophrenia]]></category>
  1717. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=9229</guid>
  1718.  
  1719. <description><![CDATA[A Tale of A Survivor Before we concern ourselves with breaking stereotypes and the stigma surrounding schizophrenia. I feel it’s best you hear a story of someone who has gone into the darkest abyss of psychosis and psychological torture. My personal story. At different stages of my life–childhood to adulthood–i have had to deal with [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1720. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="9230" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/img_1538-2/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg" data-orig-size="640,1058" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="IMG_1538" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg?w=181" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-9230 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg?w=181&#038;h=300" alt="An image of Shenita Etwaroo suffering from Schizophrenia." width="181" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg?w=181&amp;h=300 181w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg?w=362&amp;h=598 362w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg?w=91&amp;h=150 91w" sizes="(max-width: 181px) 100vw, 181px" /></a></p>
  1721. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px;color: #000000"><strong>A Tale of A Survivor</strong></span></p>
  1722. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Before we concern ourselves with breaking stereotypes and the stigma surrounding schizophrenia. I feel it’s best you hear a story of someone who has gone into the darkest abyss of psychosis and psychological torture. My personal story.</span></p>
  1723. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">At different stages of my life–childhood to adulthood–i have had to deal with a lot of toxicity, abuse, and psychological torture. All these had an effect on my mental health, and drove me towards psychosis. These horrible experiences weren’t just exclusive to me, as my mother and pets dealt with the same ordeal. My home wasn’t a safe place, as I faced physical, emotional, and verbal abuse from a cruel and violent abuser, who was meant to be my protector.  I had to watch the same treatment meted out to my mom and my pets, and these events eventually led to my mom suffering a fractured leg, a stomach injury, a head injury and an episode where she nearly got her neck cut and another episode where she almost took her own life.</span></p>
  1724. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The traumatic events that drove me to depression, anxiety, and panic attacks weren’t just from the hands of this abuser. At the young age of 9, thieves broke into our home. They chopped us, broke my arm and wrist, battered my mother and tried to kill me by trying to cut my neck, by God’s grace we were able to survive that ordeal. I was badly shaken up from that event, and it scarred me, psychologically.</span></p>
  1725. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I also survived physical torture meted out to me by a friend of my so called ‘dad’. On one occasion, a female friend of my dad tried to drown me. I was faced with a near death experience as she tried to make sure I would die, but I somehow found the strength to fight her off and live to fight another day. I had to deal with a lot in my developmental years as a person, and it didn’t get easier with false friends, too.</span></p>
  1726. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A so called ‘friend’ of mine, who I had thought to be decent at that point but she turned out to be false, and her sister found extreme delight in torturing me verbally, emotionally, and psychologically.</span></p>
  1727. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">My pet rabbit wasn’t safe, either. A gang of vicious and envious people severely slandered my rabbit and I at any opportunity they got. It was almost like I couldn’t catch a break with the constant abuse from those around me.</span></p>
  1728. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This abuse wasn’t just from face-to-face interactions, I had to also deal with abuse from a female relative who bullied me online for years. Every opportunity she and her slanderous gang had, they took it to spread more lies about me and my innocent rabbit, and this took a further toil on my mental health. </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I also suffered unwanted sexual advances from several depraved people and was also sexually assaulted (groped) by one of my so called ‘uncles’, a husband of one of the malicious slanderers.</span></p>
  1729. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">At a period of my life, I suffered extreme verbal, emotional, psychological, physical, and sexual abuse at the hands of a false and toxic female so called ‘friend’. I was sexually assaulted, sexually abused (groped) and viciously bullied by her during the period she was a part of my life. To cap it all off, she stole significant sums of money from my wallet twice, and conned me out of over $7000 with carefully constructed lies. She also </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">viciously slandered me and my rabbit’s name to cover her tracks.</span></p>
  1730. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I was sexually assaulted and nearly raped by two males, but I found the strength to break out of those situations with God’s help. I was nearly kidnapped twice by two males, and survived, thanks to God.<br />
  1731. </span></p>
  1732. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The most harrowing experience was that I wasn’t even safe with medical personnel as I was abused by a sinus doctor, who applied bandages to my nasal passages after my nasal surgery, and ripped it off with my flesh everyday. His actions caused me immense pain, but he didn’t seem to care but rather seemed to enjoy his actions.</span></p>
  1733. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I also suffered devastating loss of my pets who were my support system, especially my baby Neo. These losses coupled with my countless unsavoury experiences in the hands of evil, cruel, abusive, narcissistic psychopathic individuals had left me in a bad place, mentally. I suffered extreme torment and psychosis in 2015 several years after my Neo died because of our sufferings at the hands of cruel people, and I struggled to come to terms that she wasn’t part of my life, anymore.I also suffered because of the horrific cruelty animals are suffering at the hands of evil and cruel people. I had a repeat of these extreme psychological torment and psychosis in 2018 after I lost my mother to stomach cancer.</span></p>
  1734. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I have had people who have been abusive to me try to downplay my struggles with complex PTSD, anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and schizophrenia, and simply term me “mad”. However, I strongly believe I am not the person they are painting me out to be. I am of a strong mind, and working forwards being a better person everyday, and no matter how much they try to distract me, nothing is going to sway me from my goals.</span></p>
  1735. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I believe my story can help you understand the effect of abusive actions on mental health, the way they trigger schizophrenia, and the stigma faced by people living with schizophrenia. Reflect on the story, and then begin your journey to understanding how to cope with schizophrenia.</span></p>
  1736. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Introduction </strong></span></p>
  1737. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Around 0.33%. of the entire world population have a clinical diagnosis of schizophrenia. This is a horrifying </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">mental disorder characterized by disruptions in thought process, perceptive abilities, emotional responses, and social interactions. This disease can vary among individuals, but the outcomes are usually the same, devastating and life-altering.</span></p>
  1738. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Over the years, a lot of misconceptions and myth has arisen around the concept of schizophrenia, and the individuals who are inflicted by the disorder. For example, a good number of people mistake dissociative identity disorder (DID), which means that a person suffering from schizophrenia manifest two or more personalities. Also, people tend to believe that individuals who suffer from schizophrenia can’t be smart, but the reverse is the case, as many smart people throughout history have suffered from this disease of the brain, and there are several researches going on to investigate the link between psychosis and creativity.</span></p>
  1739. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Schizophrenia is a mental disorder which rise from a number of reasons, which could range from severe trauma or genes, and just like every other medical condition needs proper care and attention. However, a huge stigma surrounds the idea of a person living with this terrible disease. People tend to misunderstand what it’s like suffering from schizophrenia. In most cases, they view schizophrenic individuals as stupid or violent, and someone that should be avoided by all means. These stigmas have been proven to be unfounded and harmful to the chances of recovery of people with schizophrenia.</span></p>
  1740. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being a person who had undergone treatment for schizophrenia, and had experienced firsthand, the stigma directed towards people suffering from this disease, I can sympathize with the need for more enlightenment on the topic. A lot of people act like psychosis is a lifelong stain, and once a person is said to be psychotic, they lose the ability to ever function normally, again. This is one of the more rampant erroneous beliefs about schizophrenia that this article seeks to address.</span></p>
  1741. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Notable efforts have been made to correct these stigmas and discourage stigmatisation of people living with schizophrenia, but the progress has been at a snail-like speed, and the damages dealt are still present. This article aims to contribute to those efforts by explaining what Schizophrenia really is, and what is like living with this disease that causes immense suffering. This article deconstructs existing harmful beliefs about schizophrenia and what is like living with it, and then throws light on ways a person can cope better with schizophrenia and its symptoms.</span></p>
  1742. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Definition of Schizophrenia </strong></span></p>
  1743. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A quick Google search and multiple definitions of schizophrenia will pop out.  While some will be self-explanatory, others might be a little bit complex, but in all, they all seek to achieve one common goal; inform you on what schizophrenia is defined as.</span></p>
  1744. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">According to the National Institute for Mental Health, “Schizophrenia is mental disorder characterized by disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, emotional responsiveness, and social interactions.” Another defines schizophrenia as “a long-term mental health condition that causes various psychological symptoms, such as hallucinations, delusions, and changes in behavior.”.</span></p>
  1745. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Another simpler definition views schizophrenia as “a serious mental health condition that affects how people think, feel and behave.”  From the three definitions highlighted, a common theme can be spotted; schizophrenia being a mental disorder that mainly alters the thought processes and behavioural patterns of the individual. The various ways which schizophrenia can bring about such changes will be explored later on in this article.</span></p>
  1746. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s important as you read on, to note that schizophrenia doesn’t entirely render a person functionless, and the symptoms can be managed and controlled with access to proper medical care and psychological care. Now, we have gotten through the first stage, it’s time for the second.</span></p>
  1747. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Prevalence of Schizophrenia </strong></span></p>
  1748. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">According to the World Health Organization (WHO), schizophrenia affects about 24 million people or 0.3% (1 in 300) of the entire world population. From this number, the prevalent cases are found in adults, with schizophrenia affecting 1 in 222 (0.45%) adults in the world. This is because, despite psychosis being an uncommon mental disorder, its onset is typically during late adolescence and early adulthood. It also has an earlier onset in men than in women.</span></p>
  1749. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">An explanation can be offered as to why onset of psychosis occurs during such years. Schizophrenia is frequently associated with significant and prolonged distress, increased pressure and impairment in social, personal, family, work, and educational environments. As individuals are most stressed during these years, they are most likely to be diagnosed with schizophrenia or experience symptoms associated with psychosis.</span></p>
  1750. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The stats show that are sizeable portion of the world population are living with schizophrenia. Hence, they are also victims of the stigma, discrimination, and violation of human rights faced by people living with this disease. These unsavoury actions carried out by individuals towards psychotic individuals are often as a result of myths surrounding psychosis or poor knowledge of the condition.</span></p>
  1751. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The primary factor you should consider with dealing with psychosis is to properly understand what people with the condition are going through, and realize it’s not a life long sentence of disability that renders you or whomever that lives with the disorder, incapable of day-to-day functioning.</span></p>
  1752. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Symptoms of Schizophrenia </strong></span></p>
  1753. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Like every medical condition, schizophrenia have certain signs and symptoms that mark it out as what it is. These symptoms are usually those found in association with an individual’s thought processes and behavioural patterns, but that isn’t to say there aren’t symptoms that affect secondary regions aside from the traditionally affected areas.</span></p>
  1754. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Symptoms are also assessed when diagnosis are carried out so as to act as a reference before drawing a conclusive diagnosis. Away from further explanation, we will delve into what symptoms of schizophrenia are.</span></p>
  1755. <ul>
  1756. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Persistent Delusions: </strong>Delusion is a false belief in things that aren’t true or real. These beliefs are usually firm and no matter how much you try to convince the individual that their beliefs are wrong or fake, they remain unshaken. In schizophrenia, a person may have single or multiple delusions which might involve delusion of persecution (a false belief that people are out to hurt them or treat them badly), delusion of paranoia (an inexplicable fear of things of a thing or people fuelled by a belief that the object will bring harm to them), or delusion of grandeur (greatly overestimating their own importance or value). This is a key symptom of schizophrenia.</span></li>
  1757. </ul>
  1758. <ul>
  1759. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Reoccurring</strong> <strong>Hallucinations: </strong>Hallucinations often involve the sense organs; auditory hallucinations (ear), tactile hallucination (skin), olfactory hallucination (nose), gustatory hallucination (tongue), and visual hallucination (eye). Hallucination is sensing things that others can’t sense or observe. For people hallucinating, these things seem real. The most common form of hallucination in schizophrenia are auditory hallucinations, which involves the individual hearing voices that aren’t real.</span></li>
  1760. </ul>
  1761. <ul>
  1762. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Disorganized Speech and Thought: </strong>Disorganized speech and thought also known as “Formal Thought Disorder” is a key marker for schizophrenia. A person with a disorganised find it hard to communicate properly with others and also think well. Disorganized speech often manifests in the individual’s inability to follow a defined thought process and may present answers completely different from the context of a question, or trailing off a line of thought or speech in the middle. It could also manifest in forms of a phenomenon called “word salad” where individual put together words that don’t have any meaning to them.</span></li>
  1763. </ul>
  1764. <ul>
  1765. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Extremely Disorganized Motor Activity: </strong>Another symptom usually found in psychotic individuals is the presence of exaggerated and meaningless behaviour. There is no particular pattern to these movements and they can be exhibited in multiple ways. For example, psychotic individuals can assume a particular position (Standing, squatting, standing with hands raised, or more), and remains in that position for an extended period of time (could run into several hours). This is called catatonia and usually found in catatonic schizophrenia. They might also take on childlike mannerisms or move and act in ways that aren’t in accordance with the social settings. Their responses are also irrelevant to the settings they find themselves, or might choose not to respond at all.</span></li>
  1766. </ul>
  1767. <ul>
  1768. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Negative Symptoms: </strong>Negative symptoms often arise when people start suffering from schizophrenia. Negative symptoms are usually when people are unable to continue doing things they were able to do before the illness. For example, a person that loves cycling might suddenly be unable to cycle, or they might be able to carry out their normal day activities such as bathing, brushing, or cleaning. They also have a hard time focusing on things, socializing, and planning ahead for things.</span></li>
  1769. </ul>
  1770. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Other symptoms may also be present in teenagers who suffering from psychosis. These signs are usually early signs of schizophrenia, and are most commonly seen in teenagers than adults. These symptoms include but are not limited to;</span></p>
  1771. <ul>
  1772. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Social withdrawal from family and friends</span></li>
  1773. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Poor performance in educational activities</span></li>
  1774. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Having trouble sleeping</span></li>
  1775. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Lack of motivation</span></li>
  1776. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Depression and irritable</span></li>
  1777. </ul>
  1778. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s important that the use of drugs like marijuana, cannabis, and other hallucinogenic can produce the same symptoms. Also, symptoms are more pronounced in adults than in teenagers. Hallucinations are the most visible in teenagers as opposed to other conditions. Most schizophrenic patients don’t realize they might need medical attention, and it’s up to family and friends to identify these symptoms and seek prompt medical attention.</span></p>
  1779. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Causes of Schizophrenia </strong></span></p>
  1780. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">No researcher can lay claim to knowing the exact cause of schizophrenia. Instead, what we have is the knowledge that suggests that several physical, environmental, genetic, and psychological factors combine to bring about the condition in an individual. Also, some people are prone to the condition, and a simple trigger such as stress or traumatic event can kickstart an episode. Personally, I underwent many traumatic and stressful events. Traumatic events such as facing a near death experience at the age of 9 after robbers broke into my house and tried to kill my mom and I, or being bullied by a group of malicious individuals over an extended period, all combined to make me psychotic over a period of time.</span></p>
  1781. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Some people are prone to schizophrenia, while others aren’t. A stressful can make it bubble to the surface for those who are prone, but the reason why some individuals remain asymptomatic while others develop the symptoms are unknown. The likely causes, risk factors, and triggers of/for schizophrenia include;</span></p>
  1782. <ol>
  1783. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Genetics: </strong>Schizophrenia has shown to follow a familial pattern. That is, it tends to repeat in a family. However, no particular gene has been found to be responsible for this occurrence. Despite this, researchers believe that a combination of genes could be responsible for a person developing psychosis. However, no gene or genes could be said to be the main culprit. The strongest evidence that schizophrenia can be inherited stems from a study of twins. The first set of research involved identical twins as the shared the same genetic make-up. The studies found that if a twin suffered from this brain disease, there was a 1 in 2 chance that the other will develop the condition. It also found that the results remained the same even if the twin were raised separately. Researches involving fraternal twins, who shared different genetic make-up, it showed that a twin has a 1 in 8 chance of developing schizophrenia if the other suffers the condition. This is significantly higher than those found in the general population which is at a ratio of 1:100. It highlights while genes can’t be said to be the sole cause of schizophrenia, they play an important role in its causation.</span></li>
  1784. </ol>
  1785. <ol>
  1786. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Neurotransmitters: </strong>Studies have led researchers to believe that people that suffer from schizophrenia have higher or lower amounts of neurotransmitters (chemicals that help rely information between cells, especially brain cells) than normal in their bodies. During treatment, drugs used in regulating the levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine are used as part of the treatment regimen, and this suggests a possible role of neurotransmitters in causing schizophrenia.</span></li>
  1787. </ol>
  1788. <ol>
  1789. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Alteration in Brain Development: </strong>Subtle differences have been seen in patients suffering from schizophrenia when they are examined. Their brain structure differs slightly from the norm, and while this can also be seen in individuals who aren’t psychotic, and is not always present in people with schizophrenia, the number of people with such differences and psychotic partly suggest that it can also be a reason for schizophrenia.</span></li>
  1790. </ol>
  1791. <ol>
  1792. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Pregnancy and Complications: </strong>Another interesting take from research is that people who experience birth complications (before and during) can also develop schizophrenia. It also shows that people with schizophrenia often than not have birth complications, too. Individuals born with either; a low birth weight, premature birth, asphyxia (lack of oxygen) during birth, can have alterations in their brain structure, and are mire likely to suffer from schizophrenia.</span></li>
  1793. </ol>
  1794. <ol>
  1795. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Stress: </strong>Excessive stress has proven to be a trigger for multiple mental disorders. Schizophrenia is one of those conditions which are triggered by a person being under immense stress. Traumatic events can cause stress, and if the individual lacks good coping skills, they re likely to crumble. Stressful life events that could lead to schizophrenia include; loss of job or home, divorce, a break up, bereavement, and sexual or physical abuse. In my case, I was always under immense stress that made me anxious, depressed, and psychotic. On several occasions, I saw my mom and pets get abused, these abuses caused my mother to break her leg and almost killed herself. Another stressful event I faced was the very real possibility of getting raped, and while I managed to escape, I was scarred from the event. Although, stressful events aren’t the true cause of psychosis, they can be triggers for anyone who is vulnerable to schizophrenia. So, it’s advisable to avoid being under stress for extended periods of time.</span></li>
  1796. </ol>
  1797. <ol>
  1798. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Drug abuse: </strong>Use of drugs such as cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines, and LSD have all shown to significantly elevate the risk of schizophrenia and other similar mental health illnesses. Research has shown that the indiscriminate use of this substance places an individual in a position where their susceptibility to schizophrenia is increased massively. Currently, researchers aren’t certain if the use of drugs is directly responsible for the onset of schizophrenia. However, what they are certain of is that the use of drugs can increase the risk of psychosis, trigger s relapse in a recovering patient, or prevent symptoms from getting better. Research has shown that teenagers who experiment with drugs such as cannabis are more likely to develop schizophrenia in late adulthood than those who don’t. The risk increases even more when stronger forms of these drugs are used.</span></li>
  1799. </ol>
  1800. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Knowing the triggers and likely causes of schizophrenia can help you manage your life better. It’s important to avoid situations where your mental health could be jeopardised and left vulnerable. Try to recognize early signs of stress and drug abuse, and deal with them as early as possible. Also, you should seek medical care if you are pregnant or have a drug problem. This action can save you a lot in the future and significantly improves your quality of life at your later age</span></p>
  1801. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Types of Schizophrenia </strong></span></p>
  1802. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Schizophrenia is classified by the thought process and behavioural patterns of the individual affected. These thought-and behaviour-, related symptoms determine what type of schizophrenia s person could have. Most common symptom in this disease is psychosis (a loss of connection with reality).</span></p>
  1803. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The classification of schizophrenia has changed severally over the years, with last change occurring in 2013. This change was reflected in the most commonly used manual by health practitioners for the diagnosis of mental health conditions. This manual is called Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). The previous iteration of this manual, DSM-4, classified schizophrenia under the following;</span></p>
  1804. <ul>
  1805. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Paranoid schizophrenia</span></li>
  1806. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Catatonic schizophrenia</span></li>
  1807. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Undifferentiated schizophrenia</span></li>
  1808. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Disorganized schizophrenia, and</span></li>
  1809. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Residual schizophrenia</span></li>
  1810. </ul>
  1811. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">While the features of these types still remain–paranoia, disorganized speech and thought, and catatonia–still remain an integral part of schizophrenia, they are no longer considered distinct sub-types by experts in the updated DSM-5. This is as a result of overlapping subtype symptoms and low diagnostic precision when it comes to matching the subtypes, and these were among the reasons for the update of the DSM classification of schizophrenia.</span></p>
  1812. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In 2022, another update was carried out on the DSM, called DSM-5-TR, but this update did not significantly change the classification of schizophrenia in any way. The method of diagnosis in the DSM-5-TR id based on the medical practice of noting key symptoms described in the manual. Under the DSM-5-TR classification, an individual has to display two or more of these symptoms over a lengthy period of 1 month or more before receiving a diagnosis of schizophrenia. These symptoms include;</span></p>
  1813. <ul>
  1814. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Delusions</span></li>
  1815. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Hallucinations</span></li>
  1816. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Disorganized speech</span></li>
  1817. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Disorganized or catatonic behaviour</span></li>
  1818. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Negative symptoms</span></li>
  1819. </ul>
  1820. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Also, one of the symptoms must be hallucinations, delusion, or disorganized speech. The symptoms must also have a significant impact on the individual’s personal life, occupation, social life, and relationships, and must persist for 6 months, having lasted for 1 month at a stretch at any point in this timeframe. The extent of a person’s schizophrenia is dependent on the severity and frequency of these symptoms</span></p>
  1821. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Schizophrenia is the most commonly known condition of its type, but there are other range of conditions that involve psychosis and bear similar symptoms with schizophrenia. They include;</span></p>
  1822. <ol>
  1823. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Psychotic disorder due to another medical condition.</span></li>
  1824. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Schizoaffective disorder</span></li>
  1825. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Schizophreniform disorder</span></li>
  1826. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Schizotypal disorder</span></li>
  1827. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Brief psychotic disorder</span></li>
  1828. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Delusional disorder</span></li>
  1829. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Substance-or medication induced psychotic disorder</span></li>
  1830. </ol>
  1831. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s also important to note that the symptoms of schizophrenia can overlap with those of bipolar disorder, which is a mental condition that affects mood, energy, and activity of a person.</span></p>
  1832. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s also likely that people with schizophrenia might have another mental health disorder, or comorbidity. Research has shown that people with schizophrenia had comorbidities that includes;</span></p>
  1833. <ul>
  1834. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Depression</span></li>
  1835. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Anxiety disorders</span></li>
  1836. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Substance use disorder</span></li>
  1837. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).</span></li>
  1838. </ul>
  1839. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The average prevalence of comorbidity in people with schizophrenia is 23%. Other medical conditions like respiratory problems and cardiovascular issues might be present in people with schizophrenia as there’s a reduction in engagement of health-promoting activities.</span></p>
  1840. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Treatment of Schizophrenia </strong></span></p>
  1841. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Just like the cause, there is no cure for schizophrenia. However, it isn’t all gloom and doom, as treatments are targeted at the symptoms, and a full recovery s possible if managed properly. Treatment is aimed at managing symptoms and helping individuals carry out their day-to-day activities. These treatments include;</span></p>
  1842. <ol>
  1843. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Antipsychotic Medication: </strong>These medications are given to a person with schizophrenia to help with their psychotic episodes. It could be pill, liquid, or tablet form. It could also be as an injection, which will require administration once or twice a month. These medications include; Geodon, risperidone, quetiapine, haloperidol, olanzapine, and aripiprazole. Benzodiazepines are also used to help relieve anxiety problems and behavioural disturbances. These include; diazepam, lorazepam, and clonazepam.</span></li>
  1844. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): </strong>CBT is a form of therapy that is goal driven and involves helping the individual identify unhelpful behaviours and thoughts. After identification, this type of therapy helps a person identify ways in which they can combat and correct these harmful behaviours and thoughts. They are especially helpful when it comes to treating negative symptoms, and also help in preventing relapse.</span></li>
  1845. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Clozapine: </strong>Clozapine is used as a last resort drug. It’s a type of antipsychotic drug that may be prescribed when an individual is resistant to other antipsychotic medicines. It is used when a person fails to respond well to two previous antipsychotic medicines administered to them. However, the use of clozapine is a heavily regulated one, and the individual will have to be closely monitored. Blood tests will also have to be carried out, as there is an increased risk of agranulocytosis (failure of the body to produce enough white blood cells) during the use of clozapine.</span></li>
  1846. </ol>
  1847. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Prognosis of Schizophrenia </strong></span></p>
  1848. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Individuals with schizophrenia have an increased risk of premature death. This is according to the World Health Organization that states that individuals with schizophrenia are 2 or 3 times more likely to die early than the general population. For example, the average life expectancy for people living with schizophrenia in the US is 28.5 years in comparison to the average of the general population which is 79.5 years. About 4.9% of people suffering from schizophrenia die by suicide. However, treatment can reduce that risk, significantly. According to WHO, one-third of individuals with schizophrenia experience complete remission of their symptoms.</span></p>
  1849. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Coping With Schizophrenia </strong></span></p>
  1850. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A diagnosis of schizophrenia can be shattering for some individuals. It can be a difficult process for a person, and adjusting to manage the condition can be very trying for them. Symptoms that might leave you disconnected from reality, or unable to trust your own judgement or of those around you, is tough to handle, and repeated occurrences might leave you feeling despondent. It doesn’t help that there are significant amounts of misconceptions and stigma surrounding schizophrenia, and some of this might be directed towards you. It is also tough to handle that these misconceptions and stigma are more pronounced in schizophrenia discourse than in other mental health conditions.</span></p>
  1851. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Personally, I had to deal with plenty of stigma that came with living with schizophrenia that arise from dealing with abuse towards my pets, my mother, and I. You might be going through the same challenges, struggling to cope with your condition, but if there are anything that has worked from me, it’s these three things;</span></p>
  1852. <ul>
  1853. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Coping skills</span></li>
  1854. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Self-care techniques, and</span></li>
  1855. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Psychiatric treatments</span></li>
  1856. </ul>
  1857. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You have to learn to live with the condition, and develop healthy strategies to help you cope with the symptoms. This process will involve a lot of experimentation, but it’s for the best, as it helps you find what really works for you</span></p>
  1858. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The first step to coping with schizophrenia is being able to build a good support system. A healthy support group is an important factor when it comes to tackling a lot of symptoms relating to mental health disorders, and this is the same for schizophrenia. Negative symptoms are better relieved with the aid of support systems, and while positive systems can be alleviated with the aid of drugs, negative symptoms are best treated with the aid of support group, as they are symptoms that affect social interactions. Your support group isn’t just restricted to humans, as your pets can be your support group during these trying times. All you need is someone who understands you and is empathic towards what you are going through at the moment.</span></p>
  1859. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Another important way of coping with schizophrenia is learning how to control your emotions. You can easily feel fear, anger, anxiety, or sadness when you are schizophrenic, but learning steps to cope with them can make them feel less overwhelming. You can take your step towards learning how to control your emotions step by step, as it involves a lot of trials before you get to a point where you can handle these emotions more effectively.</span></p>
  1860. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Therapy is an important aspect of coping with schizophrenia. CBT is the recommended form of therapy for people living with schizophrenia.  The advantage of CBT is that it helps you check the reality of the beliefs hold, and how they hold up to the true nature of reality. Self-care is also important, especially during episodes of psychosis. Simple things such as maintaining a healthy sleep hygiene or taking little walks can help you get through these periods better.</span></p>
  1861. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Summary</strong></span></p>
  1862. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Schizophrenia is often the most stigmatized mental health disorder. Many consider it to be all gloom and doom once they have a diagnosis of schizophrenia. However, this isn’t true. Schizophrenia can be managed, and even its worst symptoms like psychosis can be managed of the right care and techniques are involved. A number of people have gone on to make full recovery from schizophrenia. It’s a step-by-step process, and if you are able to learn how to cope with it, you increase your chances of winning your battle against it significantly. This article has shown what schizophrenia truly is, and have shown ways you can learn to cope with it. It’s up to you, whether you are living with schizophrenia or taking care of someone living with the condition, to apply the lessons you learnt from this article.</span></p>
  1863. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>References </strong></span></p>
  1864. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.</span></p>
  1865. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Fusar-Poli, P., Meyer-Lindenberg, A., &amp; McGuire, P. K. (2020). Schizophrenia. The Lancet, 396(10249), 1309-1321. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31911-3" rel="nofollow">https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(20)31911-3</a></span></p>
  1866. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Schizophrenia. <a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia" rel="nofollow">https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/schizophrenia</a></span></p>
  1867. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Pompili, M., Girardi, P., &amp; Mancini, M. (2008). Suicide risk in schizophrenia: A review. The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 69(2), 172-179. <a href="https://doi.org/10.4088/JCP.v69n0216" rel="nofollow">https://doi.org/10.4088/JCP.v69n0216</a></span></p>
  1868. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Tandon, R., Keshavan, M. S., &amp; Nasrallah, H. A. (2008). Schizophrenia, &#8220;Just the Facts&#8221; 3: Treatment and prevention. Schizophrenia Research, 110(1-3), 1-23. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.schres.2009.03.005" rel="nofollow">https://doi.org/10.1016/j.schres.2009.03.005</a></span></p>
  1869. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">World Health Organization. (2019). Mental health and substance use: Schizophrenia. <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/schizophrenia" rel="nofollow">https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/schizophrenia</a></span></p>
  1870. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">World Health Organization. (2020). Mental health: Strengthening our response. <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response" rel="nofollow">https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response</a></span></p>
  1871. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Lally, J., &amp; MacCabe, J. H. (2015). Antipsychotic medication in schizophrenia: A review. The British Journal of Psychiatry, 207(3), 195-200. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.bp.114.147844" rel="nofollow">https://doi.org/10.1192/bjp.bp.114.147844</a></span></p>
  1872. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">McGorry, P. D., &amp; Nelson, B. (2016). The clinical staging of psychotic disorders: A new model for the early intervention and management of schizophrenia. Australian &amp; New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry, 50(7), 604-614. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1177/0004867416645688" rel="nofollow">https://doi.org/10.1177/0004867416645688</a></span></p>
  1873. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Mueser, K. T., &amp; Jeste, D. V. (2008). Social functioning in schizophrenia. Schizophrenia Bulletin, 34(2), 245-252. <a href="https://doi.org/10.1093/schbul/sbm085" rel="nofollow">https://doi.org/10.1093/schbul/sbm085</a></span></p>
  1874. ]]></content:encoded>
  1876. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/12/10/breaking-down-the-stigma-living-with-schizophrenia/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  1877. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  1881. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg" />
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  1883. <media:title type="html">IMG_1538</media:title>
  1884. </media:content>
  1885.  
  1886. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  1887. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  1888. </media:content>
  1889.  
  1890. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/053a8-img_1538.jpeg?w=181&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  1891. <media:title type="html">An image of Shenita Etwaroo suffering from Schizophrenia.</media:title>
  1892. </media:content>
  1893. </item>
  1894. <item>
  1895. <title>Ultimate Guide to Health: Wellness, Nutrition, Fitness, and Preventive Care in Life&#8217;s Journey</title>
  1896. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/10/15/ultimate-guide-to-health-wellness-nutrition-fitness-and-preventive-care-in-lifes-journey/</link>
  1897. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/10/15/ultimate-guide-to-health-wellness-nutrition-fitness-and-preventive-care-in-lifes-journey/#comments</comments>
  1899. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  1900. <pubDate>Tue, 15 Oct 2024 18:04:21 +0000</pubDate>
  1901. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  1902. <category><![CDATA[Balanced Nutrition Guide]]></category>
  1903. <category><![CDATA[Cardiovascular Exercise]]></category>
  1904. <category><![CDATA[Comprehensive Health Tips]]></category>
  1905. <category><![CDATA[Emotional well being]]></category>
  1906. <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
  1907. <category><![CDATA[Fitness and Nutrition Advice]]></category>
  1908. <category><![CDATA[Fitness for Longevity]]></category>
  1909. <category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
  1910. <category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness Guide]]></category>
  1911. <category><![CDATA[Healthy Lifestyle Choices]]></category>
  1912. <category><![CDATA[Holistic Health Practices]]></category>
  1913. <category><![CDATA[Living a Healthy Life]]></category>
  1914. <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
  1915. <category><![CDATA[nutrition]]></category>
  1916. <category><![CDATA[Nutrition and Fitness Tips]]></category>
  1917. <category><![CDATA[Nutrition for a Better Life]]></category>
  1918. <category><![CDATA[physical health]]></category>
  1919. <category><![CDATA[Preventive care]]></category>
  1920. <category><![CDATA[Preventive Health Care]]></category>
  1921. <category><![CDATA[Preventive Health Strategies]]></category>
  1922. <category><![CDATA[Resistance Training]]></category>
  1923. <category><![CDATA[Stress Management Techniques]]></category>
  1924. <category><![CDATA[wellness]]></category>
  1925. <category><![CDATA[Wellness and Fitness Goals]]></category>
  1926. <category><![CDATA[Wellness and Self-Care]]></category>
  1927. <category><![CDATA[Wellness Journey Tips]]></category>
  1928. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=10173</guid>
  1929.  
  1930. <description><![CDATA[Introduction Health is the biggest fortune that one can dream of having in life. It should be protected and preserved to ensure a long life which is also well-balanced and purposeful. Health does not imply simply the negation of diseases; rather, it is a growth process involving development of body, mind, and emotion. Admittedly, life [&#8230;]]]></description>
  1931. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e13d4-healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="10176" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e13d4-healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139.jpg" data-orig-size="996,796" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e13d4-healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e13d4-healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-10176 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e13d4-healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139.jpg?w=300&#038;h=240" alt="Image of a diverse group of people standing together holding various health-related items such as a heart, fruits,, exercise dumbell, a clock and the word Health." width="300" height="240" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e13d4-healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139.jpg?w=300&amp;h=240 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e13d4-healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139.jpg?w=600&amp;h=480 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e13d4-healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139.jpg?w=150&amp;h=120 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  1932. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Introduction</strong></span></p>
  1933. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Health is the biggest fortune that one can dream of having in life. It should be protected and preserved to ensure a long life which is also well-balanced and purposeful. Health does not imply simply the negation of diseases; rather, it is a growth process involving development of body, mind, and emotion. Admittedly, life in the modern world strains us at one time or another, and the best habit anyone could develop would be to work toward general wellness. This guide will walk through foundational areas of wellness-pillars of health, nutrition, fitness, and preventive care-and offer actionable steps that can help on the path to a healthier lifestyle.</span></p>
  1934. <ol>
  1935. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Wellness: A Holistic Approach to Health</strong></span></li>
  1936. </ol>
  1937. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Wellness encompasses more than the simple presence or absence of diseases; rather, it&#8217;s a process in which activities are pursued and choices made leading to a healthy and balanced life. This holistic approach toward wellness encompasses all aspects of one&#8217;s life: mental, emotional, and physical health. In this regard, managing stress acts as one of the important tenets of wellness since chronic stress is connected to most problems ranging from mental illnesses to cardiovascular disease.</span></p>
  1938. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Mental and Emotional Well-being:</em> </strong>This is where mental health comes in important in the overall scheme of a person&#8217;s well-being. Mindfulness and meditation, together with regular self-care activities, may enable him or her to reduce stress levels and bring more emotional balance into life. To this effect, Harvard says, &#8220;In a 2023 review of research, it was found that with the use of meditation, mindfulness-based interventions reduce stress by as much as 30% &#8220;.</span></p>
  1939. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Stress Management Techniques:</em> </strong>Deep breathing exercises, among others, are progressive muscle relaxation practices that tend to reduce tension. A very good example is how exercises can increase flexibility and lower cortisol levels, which are the most present stress hormone in the human body.</span></p>
  1940. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Wellness, therefore, refers to an understanding of life&#8217;s emotional, mental, and physical needs. It is about balance and integration into daily life for sustainability.</span></p>
  1941. <ol start="2">
  1942. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Nutrition: Proper Fueling of the Body</strong></span></li>
  1943. </ol>
  1944. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Nutritional intake is a major aspect that contributes to keeping up total body health and prevents diseases. A diet that is basically rich in nutrients supplies the body with energy, maintains immune function tuned for longevity, and provides all the needed protective components. Most importantly, what is paramount is to retain the kind of diet that comprises a correct proportion of the macronutrients-carbohydrates, proteins, and fats-with all key micronutrients like vitamins and minerals.</span></p>
  1945. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">For that matter, carbohydrates are considered to form the primary basis of energy in the body, while proteins keep up tissues and muscular mass. The healthy fats, in their way, like those derived from avocados, nuts, and fish, help the brain. Similarly, micronutrients comprising vitamins A, C, and D, minerals like calcium and magnesium serve the body in its way of operations.</span></p>
  1946. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Hydration</em>:</strong> Besides nutrition, hydration also provides resources that are equally important in maintaining good water intake. In nutrition, it works through the regulation of body temperature, joints, and digestion for good nutrition. Experts do recommend that a minimum of 2 liters of water a day should be consumed daily, though there is minor variation based on activities and climate.</span></p>
  1947. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Wholesome foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains will provide the nutritional value the body needs. This will be supplemented with the intake of multivitamins and omega-3 fatty acids when the diet is restricted or when the intake is found wanting in certain aspects.</span></p>
  1948. <ol start="3">
  1949. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Fitness: Strengthening the Body and Mind</strong></span></li>
  1950. </ol>
  1951. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical activities are among the leading healthy causes among individuals. Besides the benefit of regular exercises in cardiovascular health and musculature, regular exercises can have deep-seated positive impacts on the mind. These physical activities reduce the chances of getting diabetes, heart diseases, and obesity. According to the World Health Organization, 2024, an adult is supposed to make at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly for better living.</span></p>
  1952. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Types of Fitness Activities: </em></strong></span></p>
  1953. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Cardiovascular Exercise</em>:</strong> It includes jogging, swimming, cycling, or brisk walking. It raises the rate of heartbeat and enhances endurance by minimizing the chances of heart disease. The benefits associated with cardiovascular fitness include maintenance of weight, improvement in lung function, and reduction in risk of development of hypertension.</span></p>
  1954. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><em><strong>Resistance Training:</strong> </em>This forms an important form of training in weight training where building of body muscles and strengthening of bones by accelerating metabolism is necessary. Muscle training is involving such forms as the weightlifting, body weight exercises, push ups and squats. Other advantages in resistance training include balance improvement and reduced risk of falling in older adults.</span></p>
  1955. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Flexibility and Mobility:</em></strong> This would cover stretching exercises to a large extent, besides other exercises like yoga and Pilates that are added to the regime of the patient for flexibility and mobility of the joints. Since these exercises are taken into consideration, injuries can be prevented, muscle tension dissipated, and physical performance generally improved.</span></p>
  1956. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It also enhances one&#8217;s mood through the release of the body&#8217;s natural chemicals, the endorphins. Symptoms of anxiety and depression are reduced by regular physical activities, hence an important unit in mental health treatment.</span></p>
  1957. <ol start="4">
  1958. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Preventive Care: Staying Ahead of Health Issues</strong></span></li>
  1959. </ol>
  1960. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It works on the very principle that is symmetric to the idea that prevention is the best medicine, wherein measures are taken to avoid the arrival of diseases rather than trying to cure them after they have actually struck. Regular health screenings, vaccinations, and a health approach towards life that reduces the risk of chronic illness-all this and more fall under preventive care. Preventive care helps an individual find health issues early on, and treatment is often much more effective with better long-term outcomes.</span></p>
  1961. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Key Components of Preventive Care:</em></strong></span></p>
  1962. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Health Screening:</strong> Blood pressure, cholesterol level, blood glucose screenings, among others, are health screenings that can be done routinely in order to identify ailments such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol considered a risk to heart diseases. Thus, early detection will aid in timely interventions and management.</span></p>
  1963. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Vaccination:</em> </strong>Immunization is one of the most major precautionary measures. Vaccinations have protected individuals and societies from infectious diseases that may cause catastrophe. Vaccines have eradicated or reduced lethal human disease incidents such as polio, measles, and influenza. Maintaining vaccinations is one of the fundamental ways of keeping public health updated.</span></p>
  1964. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><em><strong>Healthy Lifestyle Choices:</strong> </em>Another set of care that falls into the category of prevention is the set of life choices that are healthier in nature to reduce the chances of chronic diseases. A person should not smoke, use alcohol in moderation, and give due attention to healthy nutrition with ample whole foods. In this way, all these habits will help sustain good wellness and well-being.</span></p>
  1965. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">An individual, by prioritizing prevention over cure, has reduced his/her chances of acquiring chronic illnesses by a great deal, hence increasing quality life.</span></p>
  1966. <ol start="5">
  1967. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> The Place of Mental Health in General Well-being </strong></span></li>
  1968. </ol>
  1969. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It would be impossible to speak of mental health in the absence of a healthy body, or vice versa. A psychological illness can express itself in physical symptoms, such as tiredness, headache, and gastrointestinal upset, including states of depression and anxiety. On the other hand, chronic diseases take a heavy toll on one&#8217;s mental health; hence, the consideration of both dimensions of well-being is an increasingly important issue.</span></p>
  1970. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>How to keep good mental health?</em></strong></span></p>
  1971. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><em><strong>Support:</strong> </em>It is optional and can be chosen in the quest to better his or her mental status, be it through therapy, counseling, or even a support group. Recent research shows that individuals who have undergone therapy or counseling boast their emotional and stress management capability greatly.</span></p>
  1972. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Practice self-care through hobbies, exposure to nature, and mindfulness meditation-all very good for stress release and emotional well-being. This is requested-one&#8217;s personal time for balance and not to an extent leading to burnout.</span></p>
  1973. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One must never put his mental health behind. Grant life all attention needed by your mind, and it shall be worth living sans the clutches of stress and pulling emotional strains.</span></p>
  1974. <ol start="6">
  1975. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Supplements: Supplementing Your Health with Extra Nutrients</strong></span></li>
  1976. </ol>
  1977. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Most nutrients can be obtained from balanced diets; however, a lot of people need to take supplements in their lives. &#8220;Supplements provide significant aid in supporting those with diets restricted to certain foods due to restrictive diets, nutritional deficiencies, and medical conditions requiring abnormally high doses of a specific nutrient.&#8221;</span></p>
  1978. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Some of the More Common Supplements Include:</em></strong></span></p>
  1979. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Multivitamins:</em> </strong>This would contain required vitamins and minerals that would contribute to ensuring that nutritional gaps are filled, especially in those who had restricted diets. A healthy heart and reduced body inflammation due to the intake of Omega-3 fatty acids, for the most part, can be derived through fish oil. It further helps in maintaining good brain health and cognitive functions.</span></p>
  1980. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong><em>Probiotics: </em></strong>They are living bacteria that ensure good gut health and thus contribute to the strengthening of the immune system. This will ensure there is improved digestion and that there are no gastrointestinal disorders.</span></p>
  1981. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">For supplementary purposes through any routine, it is always prudent to seek the doctor&#8217;s consult first as he will ensure safety as regards health needs of the individual.</span></p>
  1982. <ol start="7">
  1983. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Balancing Life</strong></span></li>
  1984. </ol>
  1985. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Health is not about perfection but finds a balance among elements in life. Wellness, fitness, nutrition, and preventive health in everyday activities can make all the difference in establishing behaviors that will sustain well-being over time. People are looking not to make huge changes but to take small steps-substituting fruit for sweets, making daily walks-and these frequent ones will go a long way in helping improve health over time.</span></p>
  1986. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Balance entails listening to the body rest when it needs rest. Being kind to oneself for all these are processes.</span></p>
  1987. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Good well-being involves everything.  It is in having emphasized wellness, nutrition, and fitness, and preventive care that people will strive to make their lifestyle better as they will find the road leading to longevity. Heeding the calls of the masses for mental and physical health, a person would definitely commence preventive care that leads to a healthy, balanced, and enriching life. Health is a journey-the process is ongoing, but due consistency ushers in results for optimal well-being.</span></p>
  1988. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Conclusion</strong></span></p>
  1989. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Health is something to be cared for as a whole: wellness, nutrition, and fitness-each one works together to go up the ladder of an upgraded quality of life and longevity. That can be achieved by paying good attention to one’s mental and physical health, and by taking good and proactive care towards preventive care. The journey of good well-being is always endless, and over time with consistency, the best shall be witnessed.</span></p>
  1990. ]]></content:encoded>
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  2001.  
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  2003. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2004. </media:content>
  2005.  
  2006. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/e13d4-healthy-people-carrying-different-icons_53876-66139.jpg?w=300&#038;h=240" medium="image">
  2007. <media:title type="html">Image of a diverse group of people standing together holding various health-related items such as a heart, fruits,, exercise dumbell, a clock and the word Health.</media:title>
  2008. </media:content>
  2009. </item>
  2010. <item>
  2011. <title>Top Tips to Improve in Your Physical and Health</title>
  2012. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/10/08/top-tips-to-improve-in-your-physical-and-health/</link>
  2013. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/10/08/top-tips-to-improve-in-your-physical-and-health/#comments</comments>
  2015. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2016. <pubDate>Tue, 08 Oct 2024 12:30:32 +0000</pubDate>
  2017. <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
  2018. <category><![CDATA[Health and Fitness]]></category>
  2019. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2020. <category><![CDATA[Balanced Lifestyle Tips]]></category>
  2021. <category><![CDATA[Boosting Physical Fitness]]></category>
  2022. <category><![CDATA[Daily Health Habits]]></category>
  2023. <category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
  2024. <category><![CDATA[Fitness and Exercise Advice]]></category>
  2025. <category><![CDATA[Good Health]]></category>
  2026. <category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
  2027. <category><![CDATA[Health and wellness]]></category>
  2028. <category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness Tips]]></category>
  2029. <category><![CDATA[health wellbeing]]></category>
  2030. <category><![CDATA[Healthy Body and Mind]]></category>
  2031. <category><![CDATA[Healthy Eating]]></category>
  2032. <category><![CDATA[Healthy Living Strategies]]></category>
  2033. <category><![CDATA[Improve Your Physical Health]]></category>
  2034. <category><![CDATA[mental and physical health]]></category>
  2035. <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
  2036. <category><![CDATA[Nutrition and Health Tips]]></category>
  2037. <category><![CDATA[Overall Wellness Guide]]></category>
  2038. <category><![CDATA[Physical and Health]]></category>
  2039. <category><![CDATA[Physical Health Improvement]]></category>
  2040. <category><![CDATA[Regular Exercises]]></category>
  2041. <category><![CDATA[rehydration]]></category>
  2042. <category><![CDATA[Self-Care and Wellness]]></category>
  2043. <category><![CDATA[sleep]]></category>
  2044. <category><![CDATA[Tips for a Healthier Life]]></category>
  2045. <category><![CDATA[wellbeing]]></category>
  2046. <category><![CDATA[wellness]]></category>
  2047. <category><![CDATA[Wellness and Fitness Goals]]></category>
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  2049.  
  2050. <description><![CDATA[Physical and Health is important for one&#8217;s all-around development and may be nurtured through the realization of a proper balance between the different dimensions of health: mental, emotional, and physical. Since all of them are focused on physical and health alone, now is the time to adopt an integrated health perspective for the sake of [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2051. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="10012" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg" data-orig-size="1060,792" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-10012 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg?w=300&#038;h=224" alt="Image of a group of people dispicting Physical and Health" width="300" height="224" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg?w=300&amp;h=224 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg?w=600&amp;h=448 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg?w=150&amp;h=112 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  2052. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health is important for one&#8217;s all-around development and may be nurtured through the realization of a proper balance between the different dimensions of health: mental, emotional, and physical. Since all of them are focused on physical and health alone, now is the time to adopt an integrated health perspective for the sake of mental health, emotional well-being, and stress management. Further into the article, we will share with you some practical tips which will help enhance your physical and health and generally contribute to overall well-being.</span></p>
  2053. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: Healthy Eating is Actually the Gateway to Good Health.</strong></p>
  2054. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Correct eating forms one of the main bases for good physical and health. It is where the basics of health begin with one&#8217;s intake of food. Diets should be rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which would ensure all the necessary nutrients for the proper functioning of the body. Limit consumption of processed and sugary foods because this kind of food can damage your body little by little and at times further the rate of health disorders.</span></p>
  2055. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The nutritional value will benefit one&#8217;s health and wellness by allowing the body to get just what it needs in the way of minerals, vitamins, and macro-nutrients. Poor nutrition will incur a weak immune system, overall fatigue, muscular weakness, and an inability to concentrate. This would include different types of nuts, seeds, berries, and leafy greens to really help boost one&#8217;s physical being. In return, these foods carry antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that will help to sustain health and well-being.</span></p>
  2056. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Besides that, you will eat much more mindfully, which is perfect in order to be in a great physical and mental state. You pay more attention to feeling hunger and never overeat because of this. You thus avoid some kind of digestion problem, taking an amount appropriate for your organism.</span></p>
  2057. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: Regular Exercises to Maintain Activity</strong></p>
  2058. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The second major cornerstone of physical and health is that of physical activity. Sedentary lifestyle can bring about many health problems: obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and degeneration of muscles. A person should integrate into his life regular exercises in order for him to maintain a healthy life style.</span></p>
  2059. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Be it yoga, running, cycling, or strength, the regularity of exercises keeps the heart healthy, the metabolism going, and your muscles and bones toned. Even with respect to mental health and emotional well-being, it reduces stress and causes the endorphins or &#8216;happy&#8217; hormones to be released.</span></p>
  2060. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is, therefore, important to have a combination of both and varying workouts to reach your health objectives. As much as cardiovascular workouts such as walking, jogging, and swimming are great in putting your heart in a healthy state, strength training is excellent for building up your muscle mass and improving your bone density. At least 30 minutes daily of moderate exercise should be carried out. One can simply walk around, jog, or even work out at home.</span></p>
  2061. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Exercises contribute to the psychological condition many ways. Inclusion of regular physical activities normalizes levels of stress and improves intellectual function. There is a greater flow of blood towards the brain during physical activities that really heighten the rate of focus, memory, and decision-making.</span></p>
  2062. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: Sleep Your Way to Complete Health</strong></p>
  2063. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Sleep is usually something not paid much attention to, yet this is very important in terms of health, both body and mind. Poor sleep will eventually affect your immune system, mood, energy levels, thereby decreasing productivity and deteriorating health and well-being in general.</span></p>
  2064. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">They also go on to say that an adult needs to sleep for 7-9 hours at night so that his body can repair and recover itself. Practice good sleep behaviors by having a sleep routine, avoiding screen time before bedtime, and making the sleep environment ideal.</span></p>
  2065. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It also goes hand in glove with managing stress. One is sure to become irritable and inefficient in concentration with lack of good sleep. A schedule in sleep and a bit of unwinding before retiring to bed will surely promote good emotional condition.</span></p>
  2066. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: Rehydration and Refueling of the Body</strong></p>
  2067. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The simplest and most effective way to improve physical and health conditions is to drink enough water each day. Proper hydration can aid digestion, circulatory, and even temperature adjustment mechanisms within the body.</span></p>
  2068. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is required that a person drinks at least 8 glasses of water per day for better hydration. You can also increase hydration by consuming food with high water content; examples are cucumbers, melons, and oranges. Limit your sweetened beverages and too much caffeine because these will only dehydrate the body.</span></p>
  2069. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Hydration acts as an important key to keeping one energized, the brain working properly, and digestion running smoothly. Long-term dehydration leads to loss of energy, headache, and indigestion-all three striking at the health and well-being of the body.</span></p>
  2070. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: Learn How to Manage Your Stress.</strong></p>
  2071. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Stress management has evolved to be an integral part of maintaining emotional and physical health. Prolonged stress has been linked to various potentially life-threatening diseases, which include high blood pressure, heart disease, and immunological failure. The incorporation of some form of stress management into daily activities has become imperative for holistic health.</span></p>
  2072. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It helps to reduce stress and brings in good mental and emotional health through mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga. One needs to take out time from busy life and unwind oneself at regular intervals to keep life well-balanced and healthy. Writing journals, spending time in nature, and indulging in other creative interests can also help reduce stress levels and promote emotional wellness.</span></p>
  2073. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">He&#8217;ll prolong his life by allowing only a minimal amount of stress in life, and his body will get healthier and fitter. Adding the relaxation techniques on one&#8217;s list is something anybody can do, and hence reduce stress levels, raise immunity, and even cardiac health.</span></p>
  2074. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: Support Mental health and Emotional Well-being</strong></p>
  2075. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">More often than not, physical and health are tied in with mental. As far as holistic health, emotional and mental well-being is important because it is going to affect one&#8217;s capability to make positive health choices and deal with whatever life may throw at him. Practice positive self-talk, seek out professional therapy or counseling when needed for emotional wellness, build a good support system.</span></p>
  2076. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This alone can be enhanced through enjoyable activities-one&#8217;s hobbies, creative outlets, and socializing, for instance. Focusing on emotional well-being can help decrease problems like anxiety and depression that might lower your desire to work on the physical aspects of your health.</span></p>
  2077. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: Consistency is Key to Long-Term Health and Wellness.</strong></p>
  2078. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Long-term benefits are accomplished when one consistently keeps good health. Indeed, the urge to adopt some shortcuts of fitness or diet fads, though the most appealing option, may in the short-term guarantee quick, albeit temporary, results, but harm your health in the future. It is essential to create a habit of making sustainable lifestyle changes that are effective in nurturing physical health and wellbeing overtime. Set realistic goals and monitor your progress, while continuing to celebrate each minor success. In fact, with time and a bit of consistency over the coming years, your health and well-being will improve dramatically.</span></p>
  2079. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: Social Contact, Interaction with Others</strong></p>
  2080. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Social wellbeing forms part of our all-round physical and mental health. Evidence has shown that strong social connections reduce anxiety, depression, and chronic diseases like heart disease. A sense of community and belonging increases our emotional wellbeing through which the immune system is challenged in a healthy way.</span></p>
  2081. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Nourishing supportive relationships through family, friends, or groups that you may relate to will surely be helpful. These networks thus allow sharing emotional support, reducing stress, and promoting healthy lifestyles. A feeling of being part of the community brings emotional stability and one faces ups and downs in life much better. Give priority to relationships and spend quality time with people who lift your spirits and offer you support for well-being.</span></p>
  2082. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: Routine Health Checkups for Preventative Care</strong></p>
  2083. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One very important factor contributing to physical wellbeing and health maintenance is preventive health care. Many illnesses can be prevented, and most better dealt with, if their signs are detected early enough. The body will always be kept in the best condition through routine examination, vaccination, or screening visits to a doctor.</span></p>
  2084. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is during routine check-ups that such diseases as diabetes, high blood pressure, and even cholesterol levels within the body are diagnosed early enough for their intervention. Other vital tests considered to be important in early detection and life-saving include mammograms, colonoscopies, and skin cancer screening. Preventive measures are not an end but a protection to health in the future.</span></p>
  2085. <p><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Physical and Health: The Role of Technology in Health and Wellness</strong></p>
  2086. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Technology certainly has changed the entire outlook on health and wellbeing in this modern age. From exercising applications to health wearable technology, it most definitely has played an enormous role in helping people become fit. These utilities make it painless to track physical activities, sleep, caloric intake, and general health metrics.</span></p>
  2087. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Mobile applications will teach you how to exercise at home, remind you of setting goals for keeping fit, and even remind you to drink water. Wearables like smartwatches track heartbeats and steps taken, or even sleeping patterns. Having this at your fingertips really spurs you on to get better with regard to improved day-to-day habits and health. Besides, telemedicine provided access to healthcare with convenience from one’s comfort zone, enhancing convenience and health management.</span></p>
  2088. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"> <strong>Conclusion</strong></span></p>
  2089. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is much more than anything to do with sets of exercise or dieting; rather, it is a perspective into health: mental health is taken care of, emotional well-being nurtured, one is socially connected, and prevention is emphasized. Develop good, sustainable habits over time, and you will see a leap toward health and wellness-just what you need for a healthy, lively you.</span></p>
  2090. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>References </strong></span></p>
  2091. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., &amp; Layton, J. B. (2010). “Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-analytic Review”. *PLoS Medicine*. [https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316](<a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316">https://journals.plos.org/plosmedicine/article?id=10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316</a>)</span></p>
  2092. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Umberson, D., &amp; Montez, J. K. (2010). “Social Relationships and Health: A Flashpoint for Health Policy”. *Journal of Health and Social Behavior*. [https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0022146510383501](<a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0022146510383501">https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0022146510383501</a>)</span></p>
  2093. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). “Screening Recommendations and Guidelines”. [https://www.cdc.gov/screening-guidelines](<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/screening-guidelines">https://www.cdc.gov/screening-guidelines</a>)</span></p>
  2094. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Henning, R. A., et al. (2019). “Wearable Technology and Its Impact on Physical Activity and Health”. *Journal of Health Informatics*. [https://www.journals.healthtech.com](<a href="https://www.journals.healthtech.com">https://www.journals.healthtech.com</a>)</span></p>
  2095. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Smith, C. L. (2022). “The Rise of Telemedicine: A New Frontier in Healthcare”. *The Journal of Health Policy*. [https://www.journalofhealthpolicy.com/telemedicine](<a href="https://www.journalofhealthpolicy.com/telemedicine">https://www.journalofhealthpolicy.com/telemedicine</a>)</span></p>
  2096. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Harvard Health Publishing. (2023). “The Importance of Preventative Health Screenings”. *Harvard Medical School*. [https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/preventive-health-screenings](<a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/preventive-health-screenings" rel="nofollow">https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/preventive-health-screenings</a>)</span></p>
  2097. <p>&nbsp;</p>
  2098. ]]></content:encoded>
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  2101. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  2105. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg" />
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  2108. </media:content>
  2109.  
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  2111. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2112. </media:content>
  2113.  
  2114. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/a811d-illustration-healthy-lifestyle_53876-28533.jpg?w=300&#038;h=224" medium="image">
  2115. <media:title type="html">Image of a group of people dispicting Physical and Health</media:title>
  2116. </media:content>
  2117. </item>
  2118. <item>
  2119. <title>10 Tips to improve Physical Health</title>
  2120. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/10/05/10-tips-to-improve-physical-health/</link>
  2121. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/10/05/10-tips-to-improve-physical-health/#comments</comments>
  2123. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2124. <pubDate>Sat, 05 Oct 2024 12:08:03 +0000</pubDate>
  2125. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2126. <category><![CDATA[Balanced Diet Advice]]></category>
  2127. <category><![CDATA[Boosting Immune System]]></category>
  2128. <category><![CDATA[Daily Wellness Tips]]></category>
  2129. <category><![CDATA[Do Not Smoke]]></category>
  2130. <category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
  2131. <category><![CDATA[Exercise for Health]]></category>
  2132. <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
  2133. <category><![CDATA[Fitness and Well-Being]]></category>
  2134. <category><![CDATA[Get Enough Rest]]></category>
  2135. <category><![CDATA[Handle stress effectively]]></category>
  2136. <category><![CDATA[Have Healthy Relationships]]></category>
  2137. <category><![CDATA[Health and Wellness Advice]]></category>
  2138. <category><![CDATA[health tips]]></category>
  2139. <category><![CDATA[Healthy Body and Mind]]></category>
  2140. <category><![CDATA[healthy diet]]></category>
  2141. <category><![CDATA[healthy lifestyle]]></category>
  2142. <category><![CDATA[Healthy Lifestyle Habits]]></category>
  2143. <category><![CDATA[Healthy Living Strategies]]></category>
  2144. <category><![CDATA[Improving Physical Fitness]]></category>
  2145. <category><![CDATA[Limit Alcohol Consumption]]></category>
  2146. <category><![CDATA[mental and physical health]]></category>
  2147. <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
  2148. <category><![CDATA[mental health care]]></category>
  2149. <category><![CDATA[nutrition]]></category>
  2150. <category><![CDATA[physical health]]></category>
  2151. <category><![CDATA[Physical Health Tips]]></category>
  2152. <category><![CDATA[Practice good hygiene]]></category>
  2153. <category><![CDATA[Practice mindfulness]]></category>
  2154. <category><![CDATA[Regular Exercises]]></category>
  2155. <category><![CDATA[Routine Medical Care]]></category>
  2156. <category><![CDATA[self care]]></category>
  2157. <category><![CDATA[Self-Care Practices]]></category>
  2158. <category><![CDATA[Stay Hydrated]]></category>
  2159. <category><![CDATA[well being]]></category>
  2160. <category><![CDATA[wellness]]></category>
  2161. <category><![CDATA[Wellness and Fitness Goals]]></category>
  2162. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=9969</guid>
  2163.  
  2164. <description><![CDATA[10 Valuable Tips toward Improvement with Physical Health and Accepting Healthy Lifestyle Choices The road to excellent physical health encompasses many facets of wellness. Each one of these-physical health, mental health, and emotional wellness-is interactive and challenging in its own right. Certain very vital practices for healthy living are usually ignored by people in the [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2165. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c543f-flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="9973" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c543f-flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957.jpg" data-orig-size="826,826" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c543f-flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c543f-flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-9973" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c543f-flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957.jpg?w=276&#038;h=276" alt="Image of a heart lifeting weights dispicting Physical Health." width="276" height="276" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c543f-flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957.jpg?w=276&amp;h=276 276w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c543f-flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957.jpg?w=552&amp;h=552 552w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c543f-flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/c543f-flat-world-health-day-celebration-illustration_23-2148885957.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w" sizes="(max-width: 276px) 100vw, 276px" /></a></p>
  2166. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>10 Valuable Tips toward Improvement with Physical Health and Accepting Healthy Lifestyle Choices</strong></span></p>
  2167. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The road to excellent physical health encompasses many facets of wellness. Each one of these-physical health, mental health, and emotional wellness-is interactive and challenging in its own right. Certain very vital practices for healthy living are usually ignored by people in the pace of this present modern world due to which problems relating to wellness-being cropped up. By following some simple tips, however, one may achieve good health and wellness, thereby upgrading not only the body but also the quality of life.</span></p>
  2168. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">We emphasize, through this paper, 10 helpful tips that one is able to do in order to bring in better physical health by embracing a balanced and sustainable healthy life. It will help your body be healthy and add to good mental and emotional well-being. Good physical health is a very important constituent in the way to a happy and fulfilling life, and with the adoption of these actions, one will be able to reach such a goal toward a healthier and happier you.</span></p>
  2169. <ol>
  2170. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Do Regular Exercises</strong></span></li>
  2171. </ol>
  2172. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Workouts are the building blocks of good physical well-being. Besides acquiring a good shape, it offers a host of other advantages. Good workouts maintain the cardiovascular well, muscled tone, and flexibility in the joints. Health experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week for grown-ups. It may be brisk walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, and dancing. Aerobic and anaerobic sets of exercises can incorporate fitness in a very balanced manner.</span></p>
  2173. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The most important for keeping the musculature intact are strength training exercises. Naturally, the musculature does fall with increasing age. It is, therefore, of great importance for physical well-being to include activities like weight-lifting and body weight exercises that probably include squats, lunges, and push-ups into one&#8217;s routine two to three times a week, which amasses long-lasting effects.</span></p>
  2174. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">An increased mass of muscles improves metabolism, enhances resistance, and minimizes the rate of injury. Besides all these physical benefits, exercise is equally important for emotional well-being as it allows a discharge of endorphins generally responsible for uplifting the mood.</span></p>
  2175. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Most of the holistic health methodologies adopt the principle of balance between body exercise and mental rest. Other activities such as yoga and Pilates work on flexibility and firming the muscles thus enabling the development of good mental health through gaining mindfulness and the ability to relax. In striving for wellness being, the sort of exercises one engages in should be enjoyable and sustainable in the long term. This will ensure your healthy living is sustained.</span></p>
  2176. <ol start="2">
  2177. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Consumption of a healthy diet</strong></span></li>
  2178. </ol>
  2179. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Diet is one of the most foundational building blocks in molding physical health. A healthy diet made up of a balance of nutrients produces all the required needs the body needs for functionality, repairs, and energy replenishment. Most people think diets are about avoiding foods. Actually, it&#8217;s quite opposite: living a healthy life is about adding nutrient-dense food, rather than not being able to give your body some of its important basic nutrients. A correct one, on the other hand, must be with various kinds of food groups: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Fruits and vegetables keep the body guarded against diseases through their high content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whole grains give the right dose of fiber, which is so essential for digestion and normalizes blood sugar levels to prevent chronic diseases like diabetes. These are very crucial proteins for the repair and recuperation of muscles.</span></p>
  2180. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is not enough just to track what a person consumes; how he or she eats is just as important. One should remember moments of feeling hungry and full for developing a better relation to food and avoiding overeating in mindful eating.</span></p>
  2181. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Such is a diet filled with processed foods and high levels of sugar, salt, and bad fats that may bring a person up to the threshold of various serious chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. One can easily make personal food choice decisions that provide a viable and pleasurable diet which promotes both physical and mental health.</span></p>
  2182. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Besides physical health, a well-managed diet really serves one&#8217;s mental and emotional health. In fact, the foodstuff is considered to enhance the functioning of the brain, uplift one&#8217;s mood, and reduce the burden of mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. Food containing omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon and walnuts help improve the activity of the brain. Green leafy greens and other vegetables abundant in folate have been associated with better emotional health.</span></p>
  2183. <ol start="3">
  2184. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Stay hydrated</strong></span></li>
  2185. </ol>
  2186. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Water is life, and hydration can arguably be one of the easiest changes to make if one wishes to improve his or her health. From regulating body temperature to digestion and the elimination of toxins, every system of your body needs water to function properly, and yet most people seldom recognize its place in daily life or hygiene.</span></p>
  2187. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">While experts recommend at least 8 glasses a day, it could be more, depending on the activity level, climatic condition, and health status of a person. Hydration does not completely end with the intake of water alone but also in consuming foods rich in water, including fruits and vegetables. Watermelon, cucumber, orange, and strawberry are very good sources of hydration, thus helping with extra nutritional value needed for better health and wellness.</span></p>
  2188. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Adequate intake of water raises energy levels and improves physical performance. Mild dehydration results in symptoms of tiredness, headache, and difficulty concentrating. Those who are into any form of exercise need even more water because their body loses water by the way of respiration. Replacement of this lost fluid is important in recovery processes by muscles, thereby averting muscular cramps.</span></p>
  2189. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Besides mere physical comfort, hydration maintains good mental health. It can even facilitate anxiety, irritability, and a depreciation in cognitive abilities if the body is dehydrated. Keeping your body well-hydrated modulates your mood and promotes clarity of mind, which furthers good emotional well-being and adept stress management.</span></p>
  2190. <ol start="4">
  2191. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Get Enough Rest </strong></span></li>
  2192. </ol>
  2193. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Improvement of physical health is always undermined in relation to sleep, while it is actually of equal importance to doing exercises or getting proper nutrition. The body does certain works related to physical recovery while sleeping: repairing muscles, building immunity, and consolidating memories. Adults should get between 7-9 hours of good-quality sleep every night, which will allow their body and mind to replenish.</span></p>
  2194. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">While poor sleeping behavior may be said to be responsible for everything from lowering immunity against infections and contributing to chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes to causing distress because of body weight, continuous sleep loss is more or less likely to tell upon one&#8217;s emotional well-being and hygiene. Events and situations become harder to endure, while stressors are harder to overcome; there are higher states of stress, anxiety, and depression stemming from a lack of sleep.</span></p>
  2195. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A proper sleep pattern will definitely give a long way to improvising both body and mind. Firstly, bedrooms should be a place where there should not be any sign of noise, nor it should be very dimly lit and far away from any screen exposure. Meditation, reading, or a warm bath can hint at your body that now it&#8217;s time to sleep. In essence, through good sleep, one is directly investing in general wellness and performing at one&#8217;s best capability.</span></p>
  2196. <ol start="5">
  2197. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Handle stress effectively.</strong></span></li>
  2198. </ol>
  2199. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You may say, &#8220;Stress is inevitable in life, but how one copes with it makes all the difference to health, both physical and mental.&#8221; In the long term, it invites a handful of physical health problems like hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and gastrointestinal disorders. You might weaken your immune system and be more prone to falling ill. Hence, the management of stress is an important concern for wholistic health.</span></p>
  2200. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The techniques helping to overcome stress include mindfulness, meditation, and exercise. Probably the most promising method of stress mitigation will include regular physical exercises, as such activities foster the release of endorphins, thereby bringing good mood and reducing the level of anxiety. During meditation and breathing techniques, the mind gets relaxed, which means an opportunity to focus on this very moment and finally get rid of tension.</span></p>
  2201. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These practices not only support emotional wellness but also better physical health due to a reduction in the damage stress places on the body.</span></p>
  2202. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Identification and uprooting of causes contributing to the development of stress aside, it is important to practice the above. Right from pressure to work and finance to a problem in personal relationships, finding proactive solutions can bring down your level of stress and do a great deal of good in maintaining your general wellbeing intact. Regular relaxation and social support, when needed, shall definitely help you address the challenges thrown by life by keeping physical and emotional wellness at its best.</span></p>
  2203. <ol start="6">
  2204. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Have Healthy Relationships</strong></span></li>
  2205. </ol>
  2206. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> </strong>Humans are social people, and having healthy relationships can be considered one of the essentials of emotional wellbeing. It includes the quality of the relationships he or she is maintaining with the family, friends and colleagues. All these factors directly influence one&#8217;s mental health condition and the well-being of a person. Positive social connections provide emotional support, reduce feelings of loneliness, a sense of belonging-all so important to positive mental health.</span></p>
  2207. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Having a good social network even has its benefits in terms of physical health. This is evidenced by studies that prove that people with good social connections have a lower risk for chronic diseases such as heart disease and high blood pressure. Positive relationships actually help to decrease stress and increase emotional resiliency and overall quality of life. It strengthens the immune system wherein the body fights off diseases much better.</span></p>
  2208. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">On the other hand, unwanted or negative relationships have superbad impacts on your physical and mental health. A person should develop supportive, respectful, and encouraging relationships. This may mean time spent with loved ones, participation in community events, or anything that keeps social connections flowing-so basically, it is what it takes in leading a healthy lifestyle and overall wellness.</span></p>
  2209. <ol start="7">
  2210. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Limit Alcohol Consumption; Do Not Smoke</strong></span></li>
  2211. </ol>
  2212. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The important thing that concerns your physical fitness calls for the limitation of those substances that are likely to be adverse to your well-being, such as too much alcohol and smoking. Alcohol and smoking have serious adverse implications for the body in the long run by bringing about chronic diseases and lowering the life expectancy of an individual.</span></p>
  2213. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Prolonged excessive intake can lead to liver damage, increase cardiovascular disease risk, lead to obesity, and impinge on the brain&#8217;s functioning.</span></p>
  2214. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It can also lead to poor mental health such as depression and anxiety. Whereas, moderate drinking-such as one glass of wine-can be good for one&#8217;s health, one can never be certain such drinking stays within the recommended guidelines. Generally, moderate drinking normally is up to one drink a day for women, up to two drinks a day for men.</span></p>
  2215. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is not accompanied by health benefits but is tagged with a host of serious diseases such as cancers, heart diseases, and respiratory diseases. The major components involved in making cigarettes include toxic chemicals such as tar and nicotine, which affect the lungs and lead to increased chronic disease risks. Stopping the cigarette habit will prove to be the best decision amongst all to regain your physical health and save your body from its long-term effects.</span></p>
  2216. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Additionally, excessive consumption of alcohol and smoking deteriorates your immune system tremendously, and your body will also respond to an infection with much more difficulty. It can also lead to premature aging and skin problems. You will hugely improve your life and style for longevity by keeping a limit on the consumption of alcohol and abstaining from smoking.</span></p>
  2217. <ol start="8">
  2218. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Practice good hygiene</strong></span></li>
  2219. </ol>
  2220. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One of the easiest ways to improve health physically or prevent the spread of infection effectively is by means of good hygiene. Hygiene represents the daily habits that would keep the body safe from germs and viruses. Aside from personal hygiene, this will also extend to keeping one&#8217;s surroundings-the home and a place of work-clean and away from all kinds of harmful contamination.</span></p>
  2221. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It has something to do with basic hygiene practices, such as frequent washing of the hands with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet, for normal and routine prevention against bacteria and viruses which cause the common cold, flu, and even foodborne diseases.</span></p>
  2222. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Besides, good oral hygiene significantly contributes to keeping the health of an individual: brushing and flossing will not only prevent caries but also prevent dental problems which can likely contribute to other serious health issues. Showering will help, having your nails cut, and wearing clean clothes are just part of the healthy life. Such practices will only lower your chances of infections and will improve your well-being. Hygiene helps with emotional wellness, too, because if one feels clean and fresh, he or she has the upper edge in terms of confidence and outlook in life.</span></p>
  2223. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">But just about as important as personal hygiene is how one takes care of his surroundings-keeping the place where one stays and works clean, disinfecting surfaces, and providing proper ventilation will ward off germs and make living even healthier. Cleanliness keeps up health with a view to protecting your body and mind from all kinds of external threats to health.</span></p>
  2224. <ol start="9">
  2225. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Routine Medical Care</strong></span></li>
  2226. </ol>
  2227. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Preventive health care has become an integral part of physical fitness. Periodical check-ups with a physician update one&#8217;s general health and enable immediate remedial action as soon as something in the body goes haywire before things get worse. Whatever it be, whether the routine screenings by a primary care physician or dental check-ups, are important with respect to routines in the long run.</span></p>
  2228. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">During routine checkups, your doctor can assess your physical health, review your medical history, and recommend lifestyle changes or treatments that can prevent health problems down the line. Screenings such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, and diabetes screenings help identify conditions that may not present symptoms initially but could lead to serious complications if left untreated. Women should schedule regular mammograms, while men may need prostate exams as part of their health checkups.</span></p>
  2229. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Besides the physical health checkup, psychological follow-up is required. Your mental status provides the significant role in health condition of the whole body. Seeing a mental specialist helps you stabilize stress and anxiety, among other emotional distress, early changes may be overcome and may help prevent the grieving cases that change quality of life. Do not wait until symptoms strike before doing anything; this will be included in a healthy lifestyle whereby one is being actively responsible with his well-being.</span></p>
  2230. <ol start="10">
  2231. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Practice mindfulness and mental health care</strong></span></li>
  2232. </ol>
  2233. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Since physical health is intertwined with one&#8217;s mental and emotional condition, as much attention has to be given to the mind as to the body. Health philosophies like mindfulness and managing stress help keep you on the right track toward a balanced, healthy life.</span></p>
  2234. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">That means it is the awareness or consciousness of one&#8217;s current thoughts and feelings without judgment. It can reduce stress and anxiety levels, improve emotional well-being, and at the same time could propagate calmness in daily life. Meditation, deep breathing, and even journaling are the techniques that anchor you and help you overcome the stressors much more nicely. As a matter of fact, a number of studies have concluded that these techniques bear beneficial influences on mental health and physiological health in terms of reducing the damaging effect of chronic stress on the body. That means this involves realizing that you need help, and you do something about it. It could be with your therapist in doing self-care, or it could be going to family and friends; the bottom line is that for general wellness, working on your mental health is paramount.</span></p>
  2235. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Of course, emotional wellness is another essential aspect in a person&#8217;s life, and by solving your problems, you are set to improve your physical health. Other than mindfulness, inculcating positivity, such as gratitude and self-compassion, leaves much room for improving your emotional well-being. Devoting some time each day to reflecting on the things you are grateful for changes life&#8217;s focus from stressors to the plus side of living. On the other hand, self-compassion allows one to look at oneself with kindness and at a lower level, especially when life gets unbearably rough. It is now possible to live life poised and harmoniously, keeping in mind the consciousness and concern for the minds, which are so important for the physical and psychological well-being of an individual.</span></p>
  2236. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Conclusion</strong></span></p>
  2237. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"> Improvement in health doesn&#8217;t have to feel such a chore. Learn how anyone can take ownership of health and wellbeing while building in the habitual routines to energize the whole self within these 10 Essentials Tips for Better Living. Regular exercise, proper nutrition, handling stress, and being more mindfulness-all will be given a place for keeping healthy. Also, bear in mind that physical health is about being in a good state of mind and emotional state, and therefore, holistic health means keeping the body and mind in good condition; it is having a balance in order to live life well. In addition, these activities will be helping a person enhance his or her physical well-being, assuring quality life to maintain long-term wellness.</span></p>
  2238. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>References </strong></span></p>
  2239. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">American Heart Association. (2018). The importance of physical activity. Retrieved from <a href="https://www.heart.org" rel="nofollow">https://www.heart.org</a></span></p>
  2240. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. (2020). The nutrition source: Healthy eating plate. Harvard University. Retrieved from <a href="https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-eating-plate/" rel="nofollow">https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/healthy-eating-plate/</a></span></p>
  2241. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022). Exercise: 7 benefits of regular physical activity. Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389" rel="nofollow">https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389</a></span></p>
  2242. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">National Institutes of Health. (2020). Importance of hydration for health. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Retrieved from <a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/water-health" rel="nofollow">https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/water-health</a></span></p>
  2243. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">World Health Organization. (2022). Stress management strategies for better mental health. Retrieved from <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/stress-management-techniques" rel="nofollow">https://www.who.int/news-room/feature-stories/detail/stress-management-techniques</a></span></p>
  2244. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). The benefits of physical activity. Retrieved from <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm" rel="nofollow">https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/pa-health/index.htm</a></span></p>
  2245. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">National Sleep Foundation. (2020). How much sleep do we really need? Retrieved from <a href="https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need" rel="nofollow">https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/how-much-sleep-do-we-really-need</a></span></p>
  2246. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">American Psychological Association. (2020). Mindfulness meditation: A research-proven way to reduce stress. Retrieved from <a href="https://www.apa.org/topics/mindfulness/meditation" rel="nofollow">https://www.apa.org/topics/mindfulness/meditation</a></span></p>
  2247. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2018). Physical activity guidelines for Americans (2nd ed.). Retrieved from <a href="https://health.gov/our-work/nutrition-physical-activity/physical-activity-guidelines" rel="nofollow">https://health.gov/our-work/nutrition-physical-activity/physical-activity-guidelines</a></span></p>
  2248. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">National Cancer Institute. (2022). Smoking and cancer risk. Retrieved from <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/tobacco" rel="nofollow">https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/tobacco</a></span></p>
  2249. ]]></content:encoded>
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  2269. <item>
  2270. <title>Fitness: Key To A Healthier Life</title>
  2271. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/09/02/fitness-key-to-a-healthier-life/</link>
  2272. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/09/02/fitness-key-to-a-healthier-life/#comments</comments>
  2274. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2275. <pubDate>Mon, 02 Sep 2024 20:22:02 +0000</pubDate>
  2276. <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
  2277. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2278. <category><![CDATA[Aerobic fitness]]></category>
  2279. <category><![CDATA[Expert tips]]></category>
  2280. <category><![CDATA[Flexibility]]></category>
  2281. <category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
  2282. <category><![CDATA[Health Benefits of Being Fit]]></category>
  2283. <category><![CDATA[Healthier life]]></category>
  2284. <category><![CDATA[Muscle Strengthening]]></category>
  2285. <category><![CDATA[nutrition]]></category>
  2286. <category><![CDATA[Types of Fitness]]></category>
  2287. <category><![CDATA[wellness]]></category>
  2288. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=9011</guid>
  2289.  
  2290. <description><![CDATA[Introduction Ask a couple of persons what they wish to achieve from working out, and the first word to roll off their lips will be “to be fit”. That’s not a surprise, as everyone will agree that fitness is synonymous with being healthy. There’s some truth to that claim as research has shown that those [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2291. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong> <a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1be6f-flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="9014" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1be6f-flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671.jpg" data-orig-size="1380,920" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1be6f-flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1be6f-flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-9014 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1be6f-flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671.jpg?w=300&#038;h=200" alt="Image of a Fitness group." width="300" height="200" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1be6f-flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671.jpg?w=300&amp;h=200 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1be6f-flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671.jpg?w=600&amp;h=400 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1be6f-flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671.jpg?w=150&amp;h=100 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></strong></p>
  2292. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Introduction</strong></span></p>
  2293. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Ask a couple of persons what they wish to achieve from working out, and the first word to roll off their lips will be “to be fit”. That’s not a surprise, as everyone will agree that fitness is synonymous with being healthy. There’s some truth to that claim as research has shown that those who have a high level of fitness are less likely to develop chronic cardiac conditions, and are better when it comes to coping with disease conditions. Also, they have a higher chance of being healthier as they advance in age.</span></p>
  2294. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">To put this in simple terms, our body performs at a higher level when we are fit. Fitness isn’t something that is described by physical looks. It’s important to note that there is no singular way to be fit; a ballet dancer can be said to be fit and a body builder can say to be fit too, same can be said about a sprinter and a footballer. A person’s physical appearance can’t necessarily tell you if the person is fit or not.</span></p>
  2295. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>What is Fitness?</strong></span></p>
  2296. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Fitness has been defined in a number of ways over the years. For a start, according to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans as developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Sciences (H.H.S), physical fitness is made up of five components;</span></p>
  2297. <ul>
  2298. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Cardiorespiratory fitness:</strong> This is your body’s ability to uptake oxygen and utilize it.</span></li>
  2299. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Musculoskeletal fitness:</strong> This includes muscle strength, endurance, and power</span></li>
  2300. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Flexibility:</strong> This is concerned with the range of motion in your joints.</span></li>
  2301. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Balance:</strong> This is your ability to stay on your feet and be steady.</span></li>
  2302. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Speed:</strong> This is how fast you move.</span></li>
  2303. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Body Composition:</strong> This is the amount of fat on the body compared to other tissues of the body such as muscles, bones, and skin.</span></li>
  2304. </ul>
  2305. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In some quarters, physical fitness is defined as a set of attributes that people have or achieve that determines their ability to carry out daily tasks with vigor and alertness, without undue fatigue. A simpler definition states fitness as function exists, and says that fitness is simply your ability to perform daily activities without feeling like you are under strain.</span></p>
  2306. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Types of Fitness</strong></span></p>
  2307. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are commonly known types of fitness, but we focus on the 3 most widely known type of fitness for the sake of this article </span></p>
  2308. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Types of fitness include;</span></p>
  2309. <ul>
  2310. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Aerobic fitness:</strong> Aerobic fitness exercises are designed to strengthen both the heart and lungs. The intent of a good aerobic exercise is to increase the amount of oxygen uptake and making sure there’s an increased amount available to the muscles. A beneficial aerobic exercise raises heart rate and keeps it elevated over a period of time, for over twenty minutes or more. At the end, the heart and lung’s ability to provide more oxygen significantly improves.</span></li>
  2311. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Muscle Strengthening:</strong> Stronger muscles can help you in two different ways; it can help you lift heavier weights or have higher endurance for lifting. The endurance part means you have the ability to remain active for longer period of time. To achieve, muscular fitness, you should engage in more muscle strengthening exercises. Exercises that improve muscle strengthening include weight lifting, resistance training, or simple exercises such as push-ups or sit-ups.</span></li>
  2312. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Flexibility:</strong> This is how far a muscle group can be moved from a joint without pain or risk of injury. Increased flexibility is achieved by stretching the muscles of the body.</span></li>
  2313. </ul>
  2314. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s important to note that you have to be well rounded in all types of fitness before you can claim to be fully fit. So, its ideal to carry out exercises that focuses on improving on all components of fitness to ensure you physically fit</span></p>
  2315. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>The Role of Rest and Sleep in Fitness </strong></span></p>
  2316. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">To achieve peak physical fitness, you need to build rest and sleep days into your routine. Rest and sleep can help your muscles recover from the exertion and damage done to it during exercises. Exercise, by its very nature, puts stress on the body and muscles. The repair that occurs after each exercise is how you get fitter and stronger. However, for that to occur, you will have to give yourself adequate time to rest and heal.</span></p>
  2317. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You can either opt for a rest day that is comprised of no activity or one which is an active day but with low-intensity, low-impact form of exercise. The idea is to keep yourself from going over limits and doing extensive damage to your body.</span></p>
  2318. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Health Benefits of Being Fit</strong></span></p>
  2319. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The health benefits of being fit are plentiful, and keeping them in mind can help you achieve your goals of staying healthy. Some of these health benefits are that being fit help to prevent certain kind of diseases such as heart diseases, or some type of cancers. Health of benefits of being fit include;</span></p>
  2320. <ul>
  2321. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being fit helps to improve your mood.</span></li>
  2322. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being fit helps you to sleep better</span></li>
  2323. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being fit helps to promote long-term health</span></li>
  2324. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being fit helps to better manage chronic diseases</span></li>
  2325. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being fit helps to improve relationships</span></li>
  2326. </ul>
  2327. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Conclusion </strong></span></p>
  2328. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In conclusion, fitness is something that should be sought after if one wants to live a healthier life. Being fit helps to drastically improve your quality of life as it helps to improve your body image and perception of self. It should be noted that in trying to get fit, you shouldn’t seek a quick route to getting fit. Rather, a slow and structured approach is best as you slowly work up your fitness levels. It’s best you start from the minimum requirements before building from there.</span></p>
  2329. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You should also note that you aren’t in competition with anyone, and that physical fitness isn’t solely dependent on physical appearance. Let your exercises be at a pace you are comfortable with, and don’t forget your rest days, as they are important as the exercise routines, themselves. Fitness is the ability to function, and as long as you can do the simple things while still feeling light and not under strain, then you are on the right track to being fit.</span></p>
  2330. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>References </strong></span></p>
  2331. <ul>
  2332. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Resistance Training for Health and Fitness. American College of Sports Medicine. 2013.</span></li>
  2333. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Kerksick CM, Arent S, Schoenfeld BJ, et al. International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Nutrient Timing. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. August 29, 2017.</span></li>
  2334. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Powers MB, Asmundson GJG, and Smits JAJ. Exercise for Mood and Anxiety Disorders: The State-of-the-Science. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy. 2015.</span></li>
  2335. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Schuch FB and Stubbs B. The Role of Exercise in Preventing and Treating Depression. Current Sports Medicine Reports. August 2019.</span></li>
  2336. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Dolezal BA, Neufeld EV, Boland DM, et al. Interrelationship Between Sleep and Exercise: a Systematic Review. Advanced in Preventive Medicine. March 26, 2017.</span></li>
  2337. </ul>
  2338. ]]></content:encoded>
  2340. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/09/02/fitness-key-to-a-healthier-life/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2341. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  2345. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2346. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2347. </media:content>
  2348.  
  2349. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1be6f-flat-hand-drawn-dance-fitness-class-illustration_52683-56671.jpg?w=300&#038;h=200" medium="image">
  2350. <media:title type="html">Image of a Fitness group.</media:title>
  2351. </media:content>
  2352. </item>
  2353. <item>
  2354. <title>The Secret to Losing Weight Without Dieting: Exercise Tips Revealed</title>
  2355. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/09/02/the-secret-to-losing-weight-without-dieting-exercise-tips-revealed/</link>
  2356. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/09/02/the-secret-to-losing-weight-without-dieting-exercise-tips-revealed/#comments</comments>
  2358. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2359. <pubDate>Mon, 02 Sep 2024 20:07:46 +0000</pubDate>
  2360. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2361. <category><![CDATA[weight loss]]></category>
  2362. <category><![CDATA[diet]]></category>
  2363. <category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
  2364. <category><![CDATA[Exercise tips]]></category>
  2365. <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
  2366. <category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
  2367. <category><![CDATA[healthy living]]></category>
  2368. <category><![CDATA[Lose weight]]></category>
  2369. <category><![CDATA[No dieting]]></category>
  2370. <category><![CDATA[nutrition]]></category>
  2371. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=9006</guid>
  2372.  
  2373. <description><![CDATA[Introduction In the present world we live in, there are a million and one fad diets floating around the net. They are practically everywhere you look, and even “experts” would readily recommend them without batting an eyelid. It’s almost like you can’t lose weight without dieting, but is that really the truth? For starters, a [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2374. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="9009" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/training-home-concept_23-2148479238/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg" data-orig-size="826,826" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="training-home-concept_23-2148479238" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-9009" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg?w=253&#038;h=253" alt="Image of a guy and his cat during exercise." width="253" height="253" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg?w=253&amp;h=253 253w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg?w=506&amp;h=506 506w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w" sizes="(max-width: 253px) 100vw, 253px" /></a></p>
  2375. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Introduction</span></strong></p>
  2376. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In the present world we live in, there are a million and one fad diets floating around the net. They are practically everywhere you look, and even “experts” would readily recommend them without batting an eyelid. It’s almost like you can’t lose weight without dieting, but is that really the truth?</span></p>
  2377. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">For starters, a weight loss journey differs for individuals, and approaches that worked for one might not work for others. Some excel by combining exercise and diet, others might rely on just diets, while exercise do the trick for some. Heck, some just make a minor lifestyle adjustment and a lot changes. So, yes, losing weight without dieting is possible. There are exercises that will help you lose weight without dieting.</span></p>
  2378. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The first step in this journey, even before getting the tips, is getting your mind conditioned that you will need to be disciplined to achieve this. You will need to alter some areas of your life to achieve your goal of losing weight, and getting the body frame you desire. If you are unable to do that, then this article isn’t for you. However, if you feel you can hack it, there’s a world of excellent tips waiting for you to achieve your perfect build. Shall we begin?</span></p>
  2379. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Exercise Tips on Losing Weight Without Dieting </span></strong></p>
  2380. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are various exercise tips on how to lose weight without dieting. Some are genuine, and others are nothing but superfluous garbage that would only count as a waste of time. Not to fear, I have researched and compiled some of the best exercise tips that would help you start and achieve your goal of losing weight without dieting. On that note, let’s get started.</span><strong style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Keep Your Calories in Mind:</strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"> Yeah, yeah. I know I said it’s a weight loss journey without dieting, and I’m already mentioning calories. Not to fear, calories aren’t just merely dietetics jargons. They apply to every facet of your fitness journey. Keeping your calories in mind while working out will give you insights on how much that’s needed to help you reach your goals. Calorie-tracking apps can help you calculate your calories, while in some cases, showing you how much exercise, you have done.</span></p>
  2381. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">D<strong>o More of Those Cardiovascular Exercises:</strong> If you wish to burn a lot of calories and lose weight, then I will recommend that you do more of cardiovascular exercises. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends a minimum of 150 minutes of cardiovascular exercises a week. You can increase the intensity or duration of these exercises as per your body demands. Cardiovascular exercises include activities such as walking, cycling, swimming, running, or jogging. Keep at it, and you will start to see results in next to no time.</span></p>
  2382. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Let Your Prize Not Be the Number on The Scale:</strong> Here is a shocker for you, “don’t focus on the scale”. If anything, throw it out at the very start. Crazy, right? I know, but hear me out. When starting out, the greatest disservice you will do to yourself is letting the scale determine how you go about your weight loss journey. Instead, to help you enjoy your workout routine and achieve your goals at the same time, focusing on how you feel and your energy levels will work better than letting the scale readings determine how you go about you approach exercises. The thing is that it might show that you aren’t achieving anything, but the reverse is the case. Ditch and focus on putting in the work, and when you feel like it isn’t working, the mass start going off.</span></p>
  2383. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">L<strong>ift Those Weights:</strong> Yeah, you are trying to shed some weights. You are trying to lose that extra KGs, but you would need to lift some more KGs before you lose them. The most common misconception about weight lifting is that you will turn out to be bulky, but that is as false as every other false gym myth out there. In your bid to achieve your goal of shedding the extra pounds, lifting weights will help accelerate the propose. It’s an excellent exercise tip to keep in mind when it comes to preventing yourself from regaining lost pounds. The proper process when it comes to weight lifting is to approach a much more experienced head in that regard, it could be a gym trainer or a gym member with a more rounded knowledge of the process. An advantage of weight lifting is that you will burn more calories as you will increase your rest metabolic rate.</span></p>
  2384. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Get A “Vital” Monitor If Possible:</strong> Keeping a vital monitor, like a heart rate monitor, can help you keep track of your progress. They can help you keep track of how intense your workouts are. The more intense your workouts are, the more fats you burn. An advantage is that they are far more reliable than an equipment’s in-built monitor.</span></p>
  2385. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Conclusion </span></strong></p>
  2386. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">At this point, you would have gotten excellent tips for you to realize that weight loss can be achieved without dieting. However, there are few more things to add. You have to know that modifications and adjustments are needed at various points in your weight loss journey. There are moments where a routine doesn’t work, and might need change in duration or intensity, or a complete abandonment of the routine and an adoption of another, whichever it is, you will have to learn how to identify them quickly and make the necessary changes. Also, it’s easier to feel bad when you don’t get the instant makeover in the early days, but think of weight loss as ancient sculpting; it takes time and dedication to succeed. Working in a team, or having someone to act as an accountability partner can help you stay focused on what your ultimate goal is. It’s time for you to grab your dreams and work towards them. Forget the a million and one diets out there, you can lose weight without being on a diet. </span></p>
  2387. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">References </span></p>
  2388. <ol>
  2389. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"> Morris, M. (2022). “The Role of Behavioural Changes in Weight Management.” Journal of Health Psychology, 27(5), 654-665.</span></li>
  2390. </ol>
  2391. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Gibson, R. S. (2005). Principles of Nutritional Assessment. Oxford</span></p>
  2392. <ol>
  2393. <li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">University Press</span></li>
  2394. </ol>
  2395. ]]></content:encoded>
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  2398. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  2402. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg" />
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  2407. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2408. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
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  2410.  
  2411. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/91b41-training-home-concept_23-2148479238.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  2412. <media:title type="html">Image of a guy and his cat during exercise.</media:title>
  2413. </media:content>
  2414. </item>
  2415. <item>
  2416. <title>Tasty Vegan Meals</title>
  2417. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/tasty-vegan-meals/</link>
  2418. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/tasty-vegan-meals/#respond</comments>
  2420. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2421. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 15:37:39 +0000</pubDate>
  2422. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2423. <category><![CDATA[Vegan]]></category>
  2424. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8600</guid>
  2425.  
  2426. <description><![CDATA[It’s been contended for years that not only is a vegan diet the most conscious diet one can follow, but many also believe that it is the ‘greenest’ diet.It’s important to remember and note, of course, that veganism is not simply a diet, it’s a lifestyle – and an awesome one, at that! Vegan cuisine [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2427. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/83505-samosa-1920px-wide.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8601" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/samosa-1920px-wide/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/83505-samosa-1920px-wide.jpg" data-orig-size="640,485" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="samosa-1920px-wide" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/83505-samosa-1920px-wide.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/83505-samosa-1920px-wide.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-8601 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/83505-samosa-1920px-wide.jpg?w=300&#038;h=227" alt="Image showing a Vegan meal of samosas. The crispy golden pastries filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and herbs. Served with a side of tangy tamarind chutney and fresh mint yogurt dipping sauce. A delicious and flavorful plant-based dish perfect for any mealtime" width="300" height="227" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/83505-samosa-1920px-wide.jpg?w=300&amp;h=227 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/83505-samosa-1920px-wide.jpg?w=600&amp;h=454 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/83505-samosa-1920px-wide.jpg?w=150&amp;h=114 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  2428. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s been contended for years that not only is a vegan diet the most conscious diet one can follow, but many also believe that it is the ‘greenest’ diet.It’s important to remember and note, of course, that veganism is not simply a diet, it’s a lifestyle – and an awesome one, at that!</span></p>
  2429. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Vegan cuisine forgoes the use of any animal product, or any product derived from animals whatsoever.This means not only eschewing meat, eggs, and dairy, but foods such as honey.Honey is made by bees, therefore it belongs to the bees! Even without all these foods and food groups that are staple in the standard diet of omnivores, vegan cuisines are variable and delicious!</span></p>
  2430. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">No matter which city you live in, you’re bound to have a wide variety of vegan or vegan friendly restaurants to choose from to have a lovely meal.All you have to do is a quick Google or check your local listings.</span></p>
  2431. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Once you’ve chosen a place, you can go on a best-friend date with your mom and pet, and close friends, or something more intimate with your spouse and have a delicious creation.</span></p>
  2432. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These foods are not only rich in vegetables and other health foods, but the lack of animal products means that they’re lower in fat, absent in cholesterol, and still piping with wonderful flavors!</span></p>
  2433. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Once you’ve tasted of the splendors out on the town, you could (and should!) hit up the local health food store to pick up some ingredients for your own vegan feast.Maybe you’ll make it into a dinner party for work associates, or maybe you’ll bring a dish to a family dinner, but either way, you’ll be showing others that meatless, animal friendly meals are still yummy to the tummy!</span></p>
  2434. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Finding a recipe to work with is easy.The internet is a wonderful resource with literally thousands of food blogs to peruse.There are bound to be plenty that suit your palate, be it Indian comfort food such as my favorite Briyani, or even Thai delights!You can also check with your local food market vendors and ask what their favorite meat free recipes are.</span></p>
  2435. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Once you have found your niche in vegan cooking, you can explore whole new venues in the vegan lifestyle.It may be certainly worth considering to eliminate more and more meat from more and more meals. </span></p>
  2436. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Meatless Monday has been around forever, but why not make all dinners meatless?They are healthful and delicious without animal products!</span></p>
  2437. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Once you get ready to step outside your comfort zone of vegan cuisine, the next place to look is a matter of choice.</span></p>
  2438. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The options are out there, and they are all of them a matter of personal choice and selection!There are dozens of fantastic cooking podcasts available to download for free, for instance, which can give you countless helpful tips in the kitchen, be it how to cook or how to properly slice your root veggies.</span></p>
  2439. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Another option to explore are vegan and vegetarian cooking classes.These classes are often hosted at local community colleges and learning centers, and, for a fee, you can continue to expand your view of vegan cooking. It might be worth it to take a friend along—pay their fee as a small gift and allow them to also experience the joys of vegan cooking.</span></p>
  2440. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Tasty, plant-based meals come in many shapes and sizes and span the breadth of a world of ethnic cuisines. Vegan sandwiches are a cheap, fun, quick, and easy meal to whip up after a long day at the office. You can even make them ‘build your own sandwiches’, and set up containers of chopped veggies, vegan protein sources, so you and your family can have fun coming up with your own unique and delectable combinations.</span></p>
  2441. ]]></content:encoded>
  2443. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/tasty-vegan-meals/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2444. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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  2452.  
  2453. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2454. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2455. </media:content>
  2456.  
  2457. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/83505-samosa-1920px-wide.jpg?w=300&#038;h=227" medium="image">
  2458. <media:title type="html">Image showing a Vegan meal of samosas. The crispy golden pastries filled with a savory mixture of spiced potatoes, peas, and herbs. Served with a side of tangy tamarind chutney and fresh mint yogurt dipping sauce. A delicious and flavorful plant-based dish perfect for any mealtime</media:title>
  2459. </media:content>
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  2461. <item>
  2462. <title>Vegan Diet For Health, the Environment and Animals</title>
  2463. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/vegan-diet-for-health-the-environment-and-animals/</link>
  2464. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/vegan-diet-for-health-the-environment-and-animals/#respond</comments>
  2466. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2467. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 15:25:41 +0000</pubDate>
  2468. <category><![CDATA[kindness]]></category>
  2469. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2470. <category><![CDATA[Vegan]]></category>
  2471. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  2472. <category><![CDATA[enviroment]]></category>
  2473. <category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
  2474. <category><![CDATA[vegan diet]]></category>
  2475. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8467</guid>
  2476.  
  2477. <description><![CDATA[With obesity still a widespread concern, many overweight individuals are feeling the heat when it comes to their own personal health.Many people look at their waistlines and read the scary headlines on the news and wonder how their lifestyle will affect their longevity, and how it will also affect their quality of life, and what [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2478. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9852c-images.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8468" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/images/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9852c-images.jpg" data-orig-size="292,173" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="images" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9852c-images.jpg?w=292" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9852c-images.jpg?w=292" class="alignnone wp-image-8468 size-full" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9852c-images.jpg?w=616" alt="Image showing a colorful vegan diet consisting of vibrant fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, oranges, spinach, and bell peppers. A healthy and nutritious assortment of plant-based foods. Perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle or looking to incorporate more fruits and veggies into their diet."   srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9852c-images.jpg 292w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9852c-images.jpg?w=150&amp;h=89 150w" sizes="(max-width: 292px) 100vw, 292px" /></a></p>
  2479. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">With obesity still a widespread concern, many overweight individuals are feeling the heat when it comes to their own personal health.Many people look at their waistlines and read the scary headlines on the news and wonder how their lifestyle will affect their longevity, and how it will also affect their quality of life, and what sorts of activities they&#8217;ll be able to do with their loved ones.</span></p>
  2480. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">One of the healthiest diets this world has ever seen is the low fat vegan diet. Many people have managed to go from morbidly obese to a healthy weight just from eliminating animal foods and animal byproducts from their diet.This alone takes care of much of the average American fat intake, but going a step further to limit fat intake from plant sources such as oils also contributes to an overall healthier lifestyle.</span></p>
  2481. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">People who follow low fat vegan lifestyles not only are much less likely to be obese or overweight, but they are also much less likely to suffer from many conditions the average American dreads.For instance, people who follow a low fat vegan diet typically do not run the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, are at a severely lower risk for diabetes, and lower their risk of heart and kidney diseases exponentially.</span></p>
  2482. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">It can be quite an intimidating process to begin with, that much is almost for certain.Switching from hamburgers and processed cheesy foods to a wealth of fruits and vegetables does not to many people sound appealing. </span></p>
  2483. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Some may even face it initially as almost like a punishment!Those who follow through, however, often remark that they cannot believe the diet they used to keep, and cannot imagine living life a different way, now.</span></p>
  2484. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Low fat vegan diets are rich in leafy green vegetables, which are not only plentiful, but a wonderful source of minerals like iron and vital protein.Multiple fruits are not only flavorful, but provide much needed vitamins and carbohydrates.These diets should be based around plants, with vegan breads and other foods at a smaller focus, and oils and vegan sweet treats used sparingly, for special occasions.</span></p>
  2485. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">With such a delicious and healthy lifestyle and adequate exercise, one can shed the pounds and reverse health problems one is already experiencing, as well as lower one&#8217;s chances of things like kidney disease or certain cancers, yet one can die from cancer and other illnesses because of abusive cheaters, deadly vaccines, or money-hungry and blood-thirsty people who only care about themselves.</span></p>
  2486. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Having a healthier, more active lifestyle not only shrinks the waistline and gets rid of the spare tire around the middle, but also gives our life better quality.Less weight on the joints means lessened joint pain, and the ability to chase after those baby loonies and grand-kids.A low fat vegan lifestyle can open doorways you never thought imaginable before.</span></p>
  2487. <p><strong><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">VEGANISM AT IT&#8217;S CORE IS KINDNESS</span></strong></p>
  2488. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">With as much as it troubles me to say it, we all know it: There can be some pretty mean folks within the vegan community.</span></p>
  2489. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">I’ve met more than one person who prided themselves on being a “vegan elitist” who publically shamed other vegans in online forums for their choices.</span></p>
  2490. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">I’ve visited this forum, and a lot of this is bashing celebrities who give up the vegan lifestyle for whatever reason, which truly is none of our business, and, seemingly as often as they can, linking to the pages of other vegans and criticizing them so harshly for things that, again, are none of their business. </span></p>
  2491. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">I don’t have to tell you how so many people feel about the vegan community, and the assumptions that they make about us as a group. </span></p>
  2492. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Some folks just know that every vegan is sanctimonious and hung up in the smallest details of what makes a real vegan and what constitutes a person to ridicule and castigate.</span></p>
  2493. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">One such instance that I saw ruthlessly tore a woman apart for having a companion animal.Another generated much vitriol because a vegan gave their chicken’s eggs to someone else.</span></p>
  2494. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">I’m of course not interested in getting into whether either of those things are “okay” or make or break someone’s veganism.</span></p>
  2495. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">My point more or less rests on, well, how very unkind such behavior is and can be, and isn’t our entire cause rooted in kindness?</span></p>
  2496. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">As vegans, we loathe the horrifying treatment our fellow creatures suffer at the hands of human beings.We loathe the way that we treat our planet and fear the repercussions of our actions.</span></p>
  2497. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">We want to be good and kind and to spread a message of loving kindness throughout this world and the universe.How come, then, it sometimes becomes so difficult to do so?</span></p>
  2498. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">I won’t claim to be perfect, either. I’ve had moments of disgust where a friend tells me that they just don’t care about animal suffering, because it doesn’t stack up higher than how much they enjoy the taste of flesh. </span></p>
  2499. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">I know that veganism would probably save the lives of many people from much of his or her health maladies, and probably some spiritual ones, too, but he or she holds steadfast to the way he or she wants to live his or her life, which is not for me to decide for anyone.</span></p>
  2500. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Veganism is a personal choice, it is a conscious decision, and it is one borne of kindness and love.How can we so often forget to apply this logic to other people, as well?</span></p>
  2501. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">I think it’s time we all carefully considered our attitudes toward other vegans, vegetarians, omnivores, and everyone in between.We can encourage, but we should never trample on others.These are perfectly different concepts.</span></p>
  2502. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">One is inspirational, where one is designed to hurt, and we cannot hope to change the world by spreading negative vibes.</span></p>
  2503. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Our message of love, kindness, and goodwill to all should be one that catches on to others joyfully.How we represent veganism as its ambassadors makes all the difference in the world.  </span></p>
  2504. ]]></content:encoded>
  2506. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/vegan-diet-for-health-the-environment-and-animals/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2507. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  2511. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2512. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2513. </media:content>
  2514.  
  2515. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/9852c-images.jpg" medium="image">
  2516. <media:title type="html">Image showing a colorful vegan diet consisting of vibrant fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, oranges, spinach, and bell peppers. A healthy and nutritious assortment of plant-based foods. Perfect for those following a vegan lifestyle or looking to incorporate more fruits and veggies into their diet.</media:title>
  2517. </media:content>
  2518. </item>
  2519. <item>
  2520. <title>Never Give Up</title>
  2521. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/never-give-up/</link>
  2522. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/never-give-up/#respond</comments>
  2524. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2525. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 15:07:19 +0000</pubDate>
  2526. <category><![CDATA[Motivation]]></category>
  2527. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2528. <category><![CDATA[Determination]]></category>
  2529. <category><![CDATA[encouragement]]></category>
  2530. <category><![CDATA[Endurance]]></category>
  2531. <category><![CDATA[Never Give Up]]></category>
  2532. <category><![CDATA[overcome]]></category>
  2533. <category><![CDATA[Perseverance]]></category>
  2534. <category><![CDATA[Persistence]]></category>
  2535. <category><![CDATA[Resilience]]></category>
  2536. <category><![CDATA[strength]]></category>
  2537. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8584</guid>
  2538.  
  2539. <description><![CDATA[Never Give Up is a simple statement, yet it represents a profoundly difficult course of action.There are few sentences which can be both as inspiring and formidable.It does, however, represent a portion of a larger statement.If one is to succeed at anything in life, then one must persevere despite the obstacles placed in one’s path.This [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2540. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8585" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/ant-pushing-rock-uphill/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg" data-orig-size="640,490" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="ant-pushing-rock-uphill" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-8585 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg?w=300&#038;h=230" alt="A determined ant climbing a ball referencing &quot;Never give up&quot;." width="300" height="230" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg?w=300&amp;h=230 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg?w=600&amp;h=460 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg?w=150&amp;h=115 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  2541. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Never Give Up is a simple statement, yet it represents a profoundly difficult course of action.There are few sentences which can be both as inspiring and formidable.It does, however, represent a portion of a larger statement.If one is to succeed at anything in life, then one must persevere despite the obstacles placed in one’s path.This can be very difficult, as there are many people who will be willing to tell you that what you are striving for is not worth the effort, that no matter how hard you try, you will never achieve your goals.</span></p>
  2542. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These are the voices of people who have doomed themselves to failure.Perhaps they have reached this conclusion because they themselves have failed at their own attempts.If one tries repeatedly but does not realize their goals, it is easy to become disheartened.Sometimes it is more comfortable, psychologically, emotionally, and physically, to abandon one’s goals rather than continuing to try.</span></p>
  2543. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These negative voices are not always external.Self-doubt is a huge detriment to success.If one is already questioning the importance or plausibility of a particular goal, then the obstacles one faces come to appear even larger than they are.If one allows negative thoughts to rule their perceptions, all tasks become more difficult.</span></p>
  2544. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is the simple truth that nothing has ever been accomplished by giving up, except, of course, for succeeding at giving up.</span></p>
  2545. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It may also be the case that the naysayers one encounter does not see the value in the goals that you have set for yourself.Someone focused only on financial gain may not be able to perceive the reward of creating a beautiful portrait or landscape painting.Conversely, one who is focused purely on the artistic may be unable to understand the gratification someone else gets from rising through the ranks of the corporate world.</span></p>
  2546. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The first step towards success in anything is learning to not listen to the naysayers including the internalized ones.It is important to realize that in order to succeed, one must be willing to try and never give up.</span></p>
  2547. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This is far harder than it sounds.Fear of failure is common.No one wants to have to go to bed at night with the knowledge that they have given their all and yet not acquired that which they were reaching for.</span></p>
  2548. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are a number of methods one can use to increase one’s chance of success which apply to almost all situations.These techniques are fairly general but can be modified to fit specific situations.</span></p>
  2549. <p><span style="font-size: 20px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif"><strong>PRAY AND BELIEVE YOU WILL MAKE IT</strong></span></p>
  2550. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The only thing that is harder than trying is trying when you do not feel that you can succeed.It is important to know, deep in your heart, that you are capable of achieving your goals.This can be achieved via a number of methods.Some recommend positive imaging — picturing yourself as you will look after you have already gotten what you are trying for, then determine how it is that you got there.Stand before the mirror each morning and give yourself a motivational speech.Ignore those who say you can’t and never give up.</span></p>
  2551. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>EXAMINE YOUR GOALS</strong></span></p>
  2552. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Is there a reason that you have not yet been able to reach your goals?Is your goal a realistic one?Perhaps being a professional basketball player is not in the cards if you are only five feet tall (although it is still possible). </span><br />
  2553. <span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><br />
  2554. Are there things that you should do before you set your sights on a higher goal?Is what you are striving for what you actually want?A little self-examination may reveal that the reason that you have not been able to move forward towards you goal is that you are holding yourself back due to the fact that it is not what you really want.</span></p>
  2555. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">REALLY WANT</span></strong></p>
  2556. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This is closely tied in to examining your goals.People often fail because they reach for something before they are ready for it.For example, no one expects to become a kind doctor or a kind lawyer without first getting the appropriate education or credentials. </span></p>
  2557. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Look at your overall goal and create a list of steps which you must reach before you can get what you ultimately want.Break these steps down into smaller, manageable goals and never give up. This will not only help you move towards your objective, it will provide you with a series of success which will help bolster your confidence, making it easier to continue.At the end of the day, instead of saying “I didn’t make it to X again” you will be saying “Today I accomplished Z which brings me that much closer to X.”</span></p>
  2558. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">SACRIFICES MAY BE REQUIRED</span></strong></p>
  2559. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Whether your goal is to be an author, high-powered attorney, or the greatest snowboarder in the world, you will have to spend time working towards that end. </span></p>
  2560. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Studying, researching, and practice will become your watch words.There will be times when you would rather do something else and will have to miss it.Remember that these sacrifices put you closer to what you want to achieve.</span></p>
  2561. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The Jouney is as important as the Destination</span></strong></p>
  2562. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Conversely, don’t be so focused on one goal that you miss the rest of your life.While being driven is often seen as a positive trait, so is the ability to relax and enjoy one’s life. </span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Focusing too long and too hard on one thing will only result in someone who burns out quickly.When that one thing is acquired, it may have lost all of its value.Make time for family, friends and clean fun as well as working towards your goal.</span></p>
  2563. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Remember that ultimately life is a series of successes and failures.No one achieves their goals on the first try.The roadblocks which life puts before us make it that much sweeter when we arrive at our destination. Always remember : Never Give Up!</span></p>
  2564. ]]></content:encoded>
  2566. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/never-give-up/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2567. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  2571. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg" />
  2572. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg" medium="image">
  2573. <media:title type="html">ant-pushing-rock-uphill</media:title>
  2574. </media:content>
  2575.  
  2576. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2577. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2578. </media:content>
  2579.  
  2580. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/fbbc6-ant-pushing-rock-uphill.jpg?w=300&#038;h=230" medium="image">
  2581. <media:title type="html">A determined ant climbing a ball referencing &#034;Never give up&#034;.</media:title>
  2582. </media:content>
  2583. </item>
  2584. <item>
  2585. <title>Dealing with the Loss of a Beloved Pet</title>
  2586. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/dealing-with-the-loss-of-a-beloved-pet/</link>
  2587. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/dealing-with-the-loss-of-a-beloved-pet/#respond</comments>
  2589. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2590. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 14:40:57 +0000</pubDate>
  2591. <category><![CDATA[Loss]]></category>
  2592. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2593. <category><![CDATA[animal companion]]></category>
  2594. <category><![CDATA[Animal companionship]]></category>
  2595. <category><![CDATA[Bereavement]]></category>
  2596. <category><![CDATA[grief]]></category>
  2597. <category><![CDATA[Memorial]]></category>
  2598. <category><![CDATA[pet]]></category>
  2599. <category><![CDATA[Pet afterlife]]></category>
  2600. <category><![CDATA[pet loss]]></category>
  2601. <category><![CDATA[Pet memorial]]></category>
  2602. <category><![CDATA[Sympathy]]></category>
  2603. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8571</guid>
  2604.  
  2605. <description><![CDATA[One of the cruel realities of the world is that the pets we love the most, those who provide us with support and unconditional love, live such short lives.They comfort us, console us, and bring us joy, only to be snatched away far too early. Regardless of the type of furry companion, those who experience [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2606. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8626" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n-3/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/002e8-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n-1.jpg" data-orig-size="500,455" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/002e8-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n-1.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/002e8-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n-1.jpg?w=500" class="alignnone wp-image-8626 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/002e8-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n-1.jpg?w=300&#038;h=273" alt="Dealing with the Loss of a pet. An image of my beloved Neo" width="300" height="273" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/002e8-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n-1.jpg?w=300&amp;h=273 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/002e8-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n-1.jpg?w=150&amp;h=137 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/002e8-74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n-1.jpg 500w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></p>
  2607. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One of the cruel realities of the world is that the pets we love the most, those who provide us with support and unconditional love, live such short lives.They comfort us, console us, and bring us joy, only to be snatched away far too early.</span></p>
  2608. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Regardless of the type of furry companion, those who experience the death of a pet can expect to go through the standard stages of grief.</span></p>
  2609. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These stages are (in brief):</span></p>
  2610. <ul>
  2611. <li style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Denial</strong>-The inability to face the loss.</span></li>
  2612. </ul>
  2613. <ul>
  2614. <li style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Anger</strong>-This rage can be directed inward to the self or outward towards others including fate/God/etc.</span></li>
  2615. </ul>
  2616. <ul>
  2617. <li style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Bargaining</strong>-The individual begins to accept the inevitable but seeks to prolong the conclusion.</span></li>
  2618. </ul>
  2619. <ul>
  2620. <li style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Depression</strong>-Overwhelmed by the impending loss, the individual retreats into his- or herself, often distancing friends and loved ones.</span></li>
  2621. </ul>
  2622. <ul>
  2623. <li style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Acceptance</strong>-The final stage where the individual understands the loss is inevitable.This does not mean that the individual is suddenly happy and carefree, but that the impending loss has been accepted.</span></li>
  2624. </ul>
  2625. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is important to note that not all people will go through all of these stages nor will they progress through them in the same fashion.</span></p>
  2626. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The grieving process is a solitary one, unique for each person.It may be short, or it may continue for years. There are times when it will diminish, only to return full force. </span></p>
  2627. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are many emotional triggers which bring back the intense feelings of loss.For some it is returning home and expecting to be greeted at the door.For others it is taking a long walk alone when used to having a pet scampering along.As with any loss, holidays can be difficult times.</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"> </span></p>
  2628. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"> <img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8576" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/615a3hloxbl-_uy395_/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/82a77-615a3hloxbl._uy395_.jpg" data-orig-size="320,320" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="615a3HlOxBL._UY395_" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/82a77-615a3hloxbl._uy395_.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/82a77-615a3hloxbl._uy395_.jpg?w=320" class="alignnone wp-image-8576" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/82a77-615a3hloxbl._uy395_.jpg?w=203&#038;h=203" alt="" width="203" height="203" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/82a77-615a3hloxbl._uy395_.jpg?w=203&amp;h=203 203w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/82a77-615a3hloxbl._uy395_.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/82a77-615a3hloxbl._uy395_.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/82a77-615a3hloxbl._uy395_.jpg 320w" sizes="(max-width: 203px) 100vw, 203px" />             </span></p>
  2629. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">When these flare ups of grief occur, try to surround yourself with blessed memories.Also, never feel bad because you are saddened by your loss.Everyone grieves in their own way an in their own time.</span></p>
  2630. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are, however, additional difficulties which can arise when one is grieving the loss of a pet that are not typical for other kinds of loss.These are guilt and lack of sympathy.</span></p>
  2631. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One of the hardest things that any pet parent has to face is the decision to let go of their beloved child.Whether the animal is in pain or has become terminally ill, sometimes the best decision one can make is to pray for God to take them home, and remove them from their suffering.This adds an entirely new level of anguish for the pet parent.Not only do they have to deal with the loss of their baby, but also deal with the knowledge that the animal died because of their decisions or actions.</span></p>
  2632. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">In these cases, it is important to remember that prolonging the life of your ill loved one would have been a selfish act benefiting only the person.By choosing to pray for God, Jesus Christ to take your loved one home is the best way to help end your loved ones’ suffering and placed them beyond pain and anguish.Speaking with like-minded individuals may be of assistance.</span></p>
  2633. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The second, more insidious, problem occurs when others fail to recognize the legitimacy of your loss.This reaction is typically from those who do not share their lives with pets and do not understand the strength of the bond which is formed between two beings of different species. </span></p>
  2634. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is quite common to hear things like: &#8220;Get over it.&#8221; Why are you so attached?Did you have a &#8220;weird&#8221; relationship with your pet? &#8220;It was just a rabbit, cat, dog, or bird, etc.&#8221; Some people lose their parents and don&#8217;t mourn like that&#8221; Just go and get another one.&#8221;</span></p>
  2635. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">These statements are especially hurtful because they not only deny the grieving individual the time they need, the deny the validity of their loss.By implying that one should not be grieving, they are tacitly saying that the connection felt between the pet and the survivor is invalid.This is far from the truth.Anyone who has experienced the unconditional love of an animal knows exactly how close it is possible to be.</span></p>
  2636. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It is difficult to not react with anger when encountering this attitude.While the first inclination may be to react by lashing out, keep in mind that only someone who had never experienced the kind of love a pet can provide would say something so patently incorrect.While it is acceptable to be furious at these people, they are also deserving of your pity.These are the same kinds of people who would bully you, relentlessly while you are sick and dying, or have zero compassion when your parent is sick and dying.</span></p>
  2637. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are a number of things one can do to help ease the loss of a pet.Not all of these suggestions will work for all people.Choose those that help you through your grieving process.</span></p>
  2638. <ul>
  2639. <li style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Have a wake. </strong>While it is not common to hold funerary services for a pet, there is no reason why you cannot gather a group of people together and share fond memories of the lost one.</span></li>
  2640. </ul>
  2641. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Wakes and funerals are excellent ways of dealing with the finality of death.Those who are experiencing the loss are surrounded by those who support them, there is a shift from sadness to happiness by the telling of blessed stories, and they provide a sense of closure.</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">                            <img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8577" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/a-blessed-life/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/056b4-a-blessed-life.jpg" data-orig-size="1024,768" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;1&quot;}" data-image-title="a-blessed-life" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/056b4-a-blessed-life.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/056b4-a-blessed-life.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-8577" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/056b4-a-blessed-life.jpg?w=300&#038;h=225" alt="" width="300" height="225" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/056b4-a-blessed-life.jpg?w=300&amp;h=225 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/056b4-a-blessed-life.jpg?w=600&amp;h=450 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/056b4-a-blessed-life.jpg?w=150&amp;h=113 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" />                           </span></p>
  2642. <ul>
  2643. <li style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Talk to someone.</strong>When you are feeling especially down, talk to someone who knew the animal.Share with friends or family.</span></li>
  2644. </ul>
  2645. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There are numerous support groups which meet on-line or in person.There are also therapists who specialize in grief counseling for those who have lost pets.</span></p>
  2646. <ul>
  2647. <li style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong> Create a memorial.</strong>This can be anything which will help you remember and recognize the beauty which was brought into your life through the soul of the animal you shared your life with.</span></li>
  2648. </ul>
  2649. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Create a photo collage, place a marker in your yard or in a favorite park, donate to a rescue organization.</span></p>
  2650. <ul>
  2651. <li style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Share your life with another animal.Most people who have loved and lost a pet will go on to adopt another. There is no set time which is appropriate to wait.Some adopt a new animal within days, others have to wait for years.Some can never share their lives with a pet again.All of these are perfectly reasonable reactions.What is important to remember is that you are not replacing your lost pet. </span></li>
  2652. </ul>
  2653. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Adopting a new animal will not mean that you loved your deceased pet any less. Similarly, a new rabbit/dog/cat/bird/etc. will never be exactly like the pet you lost.Remember to treat the new members of your family as an individual and not constantly compare them to those who have passed.</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">             </span></p>
  2654. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The final problem, for those who are spiritual, is concern that they will not be reunited with their lost loved ones in the afterlife.While this debate has raged for centuries. Depending upon the religion and the interpretation of religious texts, the answer to whether or not there will be animals in heaven is yes.</span></p>
  2655. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">My great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ is good and merciful. The KJV Bible states that all animals have souls and will live forever on the new earth. <img src="https://s0.wp.com/wp-content/mu-plugins/wpcom-smileys/twemoji/2/72x72/1f642.png" alt="🙂" class="wp-smiley" style="height: 1em; max-height: 1em;" /></span></p>
  2656. ]]></content:encoded>
  2658. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/dealing-with-the-loss-of-a-beloved-pet/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2659. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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  2665. <media:title type="html">74447156_2609433979149475_7442283321502990336_n</media:title>
  2666. </media:content>
  2667.  
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  2669. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2670. </media:content>
  2671.  
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  2673. <media:title type="html">Dealing with the Loss of a pet. An image of my beloved Neo</media:title>
  2674. </media:content>
  2675.  
  2676. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/82a77-615a3hloxbl._uy395_.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" medium="image" />
  2677.  
  2678. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/056b4-a-blessed-life.jpg?w=300&#038;h=225" medium="image" />
  2679. </item>
  2680. <item>
  2681. <title>Animal Adoption</title>
  2682. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/animal-adoption/</link>
  2683. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/animal-adoption/#respond</comments>
  2685. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2686. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 14:19:19 +0000</pubDate>
  2687. <category><![CDATA[kindness]]></category>
  2688. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2689. <category><![CDATA[Adopt a cat]]></category>
  2690. <category><![CDATA[Adopt a dog]]></category>
  2691. <category><![CDATA[Adopt a rabbit]]></category>
  2692. <category><![CDATA[Adoptable pets]]></category>
  2693. <category><![CDATA[adorable pets]]></category>
  2694. <category><![CDATA[animal adoption]]></category>
  2695. <category><![CDATA[animal rescue]]></category>
  2696. <category><![CDATA[Animal shelters]]></category>
  2697. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  2698. <category><![CDATA[Foster animals]]></category>
  2699. <category><![CDATA[love]]></category>
  2700. <category><![CDATA[Pet adoption]]></category>
  2701. <category><![CDATA[pets]]></category>
  2702. <category><![CDATA[Rescued animals]]></category>
  2703. <category><![CDATA[Shelter animals]]></category>
  2704. <category><![CDATA[trust]]></category>
  2705. <category><![CDATA[unconditional love]]></category>
  2706. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8563</guid>
  2707.  
  2708. <description><![CDATA[You’ve heard a lot about rescue animals, but what are they, really? At the park, you’ve probably met more than one friendly face proudly smiling at their pal and proclaiming them a ‘rescue’ baby.The term is endearingly sweet, and very meaningful to the parent, but the implications of the meaning may be very grave and [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2709. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8568" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg" data-orig-size="612,443" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg?w=612" class="alignnone wp-image-8568 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg?w=300&#038;h=217" alt="Adorable cat Pippa sitting in a home environment, symbolizing the joy of animal adoption" width="300" height="217" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg?w=300&amp;h=217 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg?w=600&amp;h=434 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg?w=150&amp;h=109 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  2710. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You’ve heard a lot about rescue animals, but what are they, really? At the park, you’ve probably met more than one friendly face proudly smiling at their pal and proclaiming them a ‘rescue’ baby.The term is endearingly sweet, and very meaningful to the parent, but the implications of the meaning may be very grave and shocking to you.</span></p>
  2711. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You see, for a pet to be considered a rescue animal, this means that they will have to have been literally rescued from a situation or shelter in which they otherwise would have been subjected to euthanasia.</span></p>
  2712. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A rescue baby and a parent can create a lifelong bond of unconditional love and trust.</span></p>
  2713. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Some animals are also considered rescues when they are taken from abusive or neglectful homes and rehomed to a responsible pet owner.Whatever the case, a rescue is an animal saved from a horrible fate by a kind-hearted person.</span></p>
  2714. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Just hearing all of that underscores one of the most important reasons there are to adopt or rescue rather than buy a pet: individuals selling the litters of their animals are not only committing an act that is morally ambiguous on its own, but saving an innocent creature from being killed is the obvious and superior choice. </span></p>
  2715. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Some people may turn up their nose at an animal that doesn’t have a pedigree and is not purely bred, but ask yourself, does a thing like that really matter?</span></p>
  2716. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Our pets are here for us to love and take care of them, period, and whether or not they have papers to prove a pure bloodline have nothing to do with that.</span></p>
  2717. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Our animal companions love us in turn for providing them with safe and loving homes, along with the occasional treat and new toy, and this is what truly matters.You can love a rescue pet just as easily as a pedigreed pet, and they can return your love just as easily, too.</span></p>
  2718. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You may have to prove that you have accommodations necessary for the animal that you’re rescuing, and you may also have to pay a fee.Usually these fees are important contributions that help feed the animals that have yet to be rescued, and keeps these innocent creatures from being sheltered in a place that would euthanize if they were not adopted after a certain period of time.</span></p>
  2719. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The amount you pay to adopt your rescue pet is worth much less than the life of the animal, of course, and the love and bond you’ll experience with your pet over the years will outshine that paltry dollar sign very quickly.</span></p>
  2720. ]]></content:encoded>
  2722. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/animal-adoption/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2723. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  2727. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg" />
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  2729. <media:title type="html">440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n</media:title>
  2730. </media:content>
  2731.  
  2732. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2733. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2734. </media:content>
  2735.  
  2736. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/4e2c2-440861519_7629128990513257_3470997995271502530_n.jpg?w=300&#038;h=217" medium="image">
  2737. <media:title type="html">Adorable cat Pippa sitting in a home environment, symbolizing the joy of animal adoption</media:title>
  2738. </media:content>
  2739. </item>
  2740. <item>
  2741. <title>Be Kind and Cruelty Free to Humans and Animals</title>
  2742. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/be-kind-and-cruelty-free-to-humans-and-animals/</link>
  2743. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/be-kind-and-cruelty-free-to-humans-and-animals/#comments</comments>
  2745. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2746. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 13:33:28 +0000</pubDate>
  2747. <category><![CDATA[kindness]]></category>
  2748. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2749. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  2750. <category><![CDATA[animal welfare]]></category>
  2751. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  2752. <category><![CDATA[cruelty]]></category>
  2753. <category><![CDATA[cruelty free]]></category>
  2754. <category><![CDATA[humans]]></category>
  2755. <category><![CDATA[kind]]></category>
  2756. <category><![CDATA[Vegan]]></category>
  2757. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8546</guid>
  2758.  
  2759. <description><![CDATA[When it comes to life, pain is somewhat inevitable. We can try to escape it all we want, but we will always encounter it when we least expect it.Whether it’s the passing of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or stubbing your toe on a wall – pain is something which touches all [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2760. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8550" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg" data-orig-size="826,826" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-8550" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg?w=249&#038;h=249" alt="Image showing the message &quot;Be Kind and Cruelty Free to Humans and Animals&quot; in a colorful and uplifting design, promoting compassion and empathy towards all living beings." width="249" height="249" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg?w=249&amp;h=249 249w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg?w=498&amp;h=498 498w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w" sizes="(max-width: 249px) 100vw, 249px" /></a></p>
  2761. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">When it comes to life, pain is somewhat inevitable. We can try to escape it all we want, but we will always encounter it when we least expect it.Whether it’s the passing of a loved one, the end of a relationship, or stubbing your toe on a wall – pain is something which touches all of our lives.Although we cannot eliminate pain altogether, we can certainly take steps to reduce it in ourselves and God&#8217;s creatures, humans and animals. Although some negative things which happen in our lives are inevitably due to “acts of God” and freak accidents, many are put in place by people with poor morals and motivations.</span></p>
  2762. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Sometimes we may find that we are hurting our loved ones, whether obviously or in more subtle ways. If you have a light-hearted relationship with someone, it can be easy to “tease” them and “insult” them without thinking too much of it, prodding them constantly with microaggressions and insecurities.People who wear their heart on their sleeve are likely to inform you if you’re bothering them excessively.People who hide their emotions, however, are more likely to bottle their pain up inside until it reaches a critical mass.The latter type of person is plentiful, and you may not realize it until it’s too late.</span></p>
  2763. <p style="font-weight: 400"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Treat your neighbour as you would like to be treated is one of the cornerstones of human civilization which epitomizes how we have become so advanced as a species on the planet.Human beings are social animals who need to interact with one another and help one another in order to survive and thrive in the long-term. Though there are inevitably problems and exceptions, being considerate of our fellow humans has allowed us to get to where we are today.</span></p>
  2764. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Although we have generally learned that treating other humans with contempt is wrong, especially if unjustified, many of us still abuse and show hatred to animals nonetheless. Although growing trends of veganism, vegetarianism, and cruelty-free products are emerging in recent years, more has to be done in order to protect the well-being of animals. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a meat-eater, a vegan, or anything in between, we can all still get behind the humane and compassionate treatment of animals.</span></p>
  2765. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It’s easy to jump to meat-eating when it comes to animal rights, although there are many other things to consider too. For example, some people are abusive and mean to their pets, striking them and causing them severe distress.We should always remember that the animals we share this planet with have just as much right to be here as we do, even if we can be deemed the “smarter” species of the two. Being smart and/or superior to other animals does not give us the right to be mean or abusive to them! If someone said this about powerful humans and weaker humans, they would be immediately chastised for it.</span></p>
  2766. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The sad thing about animal cruelty is that animals are 100% innocent and don&#8217;t deserve to suffer. Animals can only try to act out physically, something which often sees them being retaliated against.Even though animals fight naturally in the wild, this is simply part of the food chain process; they do not fight one another in the name of a sick kind of pleasure. As a result, humans should do the same, treating them with respect and avoiding confrontations with them at all times.</span></p>
  2767. ]]></content:encoded>
  2769. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/be-kind-and-cruelty-free-to-humans-and-animals/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2770. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  2774. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg" />
  2775. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg" medium="image">
  2776. <media:title type="html">watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558</media:title>
  2777. </media:content>
  2778.  
  2779. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2780. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2781. </media:content>
  2782.  
  2783. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2052b-watercolor-world-kindness-day-illustration_23-2149690558.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  2784. <media:title type="html">Image showing the message &#034;Be Kind and Cruelty Free to Humans and Animals&#034; in a colorful and uplifting design, promoting compassion and empathy towards all living beings.</media:title>
  2785. </media:content>
  2786. </item>
  2787. <item>
  2788. <title>My Vegan Glow-Up</title>
  2789. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/my-vegan-glow-up/</link>
  2790. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/my-vegan-glow-up/#respond</comments>
  2792. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2793. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:57:29 +0000</pubDate>
  2794. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2795. <category><![CDATA[Vegan]]></category>
  2796. <category><![CDATA[animal rights]]></category>
  2797. <category><![CDATA[animal testing]]></category>
  2798. <category><![CDATA[animal welfare]]></category>
  2799. <category><![CDATA[animals]]></category>
  2800. <category><![CDATA[cruelty free]]></category>
  2801. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8528</guid>
  2802.  
  2803. <description><![CDATA[Truth be told, I have never been all that worried about the fashion or beauty industries—except for where animal rights are concerned. I’ve written countless articles and reports about animal cruelty within these industries as they relate to animal testing, the fur trade, and other very unpleasant facets of fashion and beauty. I spent a lot of [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2804. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8529" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/5915dd481e00002000622ba1/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp" data-orig-size="525,243" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="5915dd481e00002000622ba1" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp?w=525" class="alignnone wp-image-8529 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp?w=300&#038;h=139" alt="Vegan: A cute and fluffy gold and white bunny named Neo, with adorable floppy ears, enjoying a peaceful moment sitting in the lush green grass. Neo is a bunny, happily surrounded by nature." width="300" height="139" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp?w=300&amp;h=139 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp?w=150&amp;h=69 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp 525w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  2805. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2806. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Truth be told, I have never been all that worried about the fashion or beauty industries—except for where animal rights are concerned. I’ve written countless articles and reports about animal cruelty within these industries as they relate to animal testing, the fur trade, and other <em>very </em>unpleasant facets of fashion and beauty. I spent a lot of time researching who was using truly vegan ingredients in their products as well as which companies I, and by extension the animal rights activists and vegans within my sphere of influence, should avoid and refuse support monetarily. When I say a lot of time, I mean a lot of time. We’re talking years, here.</span></p>
  2807. </div>
  2808. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2809. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A lot of us animal rights activists have fought long and hard for there to be cruelty-free options for men and women in both clothing and the products they apply to their bodies. It wasn’t until quite recently, though, that a vegan gal or guy had a complete range of options that they could feel confident were 100% cruelty-free and without animal by-products. There’s been such an explosion of new vegan beauty companies and clothing lines that I have begun research into these businesses for a new book to help vegans and animal rights activists make the best choices for themselves—and the animals.</span></p>
  2810. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2811. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you’ve ever done research for such a project, you probably know that there’s an inevitability of using yourself as a test subject. I wrote to dozens of online vegan beauty vendors to ask for samples for the purposes of researching and writing a how-to book on ethical beauty and sartorial options. My PO box could hardly keep up the demand from the generosity of these companies, and I soon found myself with a cluttered bathroom counter, standing before my mirror thinking ‘crap, how does one contour?’.</span></p>
  2812. </div>
  2813. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2814. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Now, I’m not saying I <em>never</em> wore makeup before this time—I’ve always had a cruelty-free powder on stand-by and have previously purchased ethical lipsticks and the like for special occasions like the birthdays of loved ones and the odd New Year’s Eve gathering. Standing in front of my mirror with all my unpackaged samples, however, I realized I had no clue what I was doing. What in the world is eye brightener? Why does one need to prime one’s face?</span></p>
  2815. </div>
  2816. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2817. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">What happened next was me grabbing my iPad and a bar stool from the kitchen island and watching dozens of YouTube instructional videos. Hesitantly, I would pick up a fragrant cruelty-free primer and apply it under my eyes the way the fellow on the video showed me. I picked up the delicate brushes I’d purchased on my own from a reputable business and carefully introduced nuance and mystery to my features simply by tracing them along various parts of my face with appropriate color choices. When I was done, I locked my tablet and stared at myself for a good full minute.</span></p>
  2818. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2819. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I looked like a clown. I smiled and giggled at myself and used my fingertips to try and blend this better, nip this away, etc. The results were more comical than beautiful, but my heart swelled with emotion, because I’d met my goal. I had done what I’d intended to do. I’d proven to myself that anyone could wear a full face of beautiful, cruelty-free products, and that, my friends, is empowering, even if you do look like a clown.</span></p>
  2820. </div>
  2821. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2822. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">It wasn’t the fault of the products, of course. I took a shower and tried again. I began to put a little bit of natural-looking makeup on before going to work in the mornings, and soon learned how to even accomplish such a thing. Within a week, I had grasped the basics. Over the past several months, I’ve gone from garish to glam, if I do say so myself, when I do have the desire and take the time to apply a full face of makeup.</span></p>
  2823. </div>
  2824. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2825. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">My friends were so floored at first that I didn’t know whether to be incredibly flattered or a little offended. I didn’t need to wear makeup, of course, and they assured me of this themselves even while admiring my YouTube inspired looks—pulled off by a vegan, using vegan products.</span></p>
  2826. </div>
  2827. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2828. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The stereotypical image of the female vegan/animal rights activist is a cruel caricature summoned by people who have a regrettable propensity to ignore what harm they may cause. I’ve heard many women and men defend their usage of ethically irresponsible (if not downright deplorable, depending on the company) products because there are no cruelty-free alternatives. When shown proof to the contrary, I’ve often gotten an impatient eye roll as they assure me that there’s no way the cruelty-free alternative could actually be as good as the “real thing”. When I ask them for reasoning behind this thought, I never (to this day) have received anything grounded in facts.</span></p>
  2829. </div>
  2830. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2831. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I feel comfortable with myself when I look in the mirror regardless of whether it’s my own “naked” skin, dark circles under my eyes, the odd blemish here or there, or whether it’s my “glow up” face, flawlessly applied hyper-pigmented lip color. I’m no model. I’m not even the type to want to put my face out there . What’s been most empowering to me as a vegan and animal rights activist is that I’ve proven to myself that there are hordes of affordable and gorgeous alternatives to brands that exploit animals that anyone, no matter who you are, where you’re from, how you identify, what your preferred style is, etc., can make the switch. I always <em>knew</em> this, of course, but with looking at the scattered products on my bathroom counter and my own occasionally polished face, I’ve set out not only to prove it to myself, but to others, as well.</span></p>
  2832. </div>
  2833. </div>
  2834. </div>
  2835. ]]></content:encoded>
  2837. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/my-vegan-glow-up/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2838. <slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
  2842. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp" />
  2843. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp" medium="image">
  2844. <media:title type="html">5915dd481e00002000622ba1</media:title>
  2845. </media:content>
  2846.  
  2847. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2848. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2849. </media:content>
  2850.  
  2851. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/11c1b-5915dd481e00002000622ba1.webp?w=300&#038;h=139" medium="image">
  2852. <media:title type="html">Vegan: A cute and fluffy gold and white bunny named Neo, with adorable floppy ears, enjoying a peaceful moment sitting in the lush green grass. Neo is a bunny, happily surrounded by nature.</media:title>
  2853. </media:content>
  2854. </item>
  2855. <item>
  2856. <title>It’s the Little Things: The Art of self-care in a cold world</title>
  2857. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/its-the-little-things-the-art-of-self-care-in-a-cold-world/</link>
  2858. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/its-the-little-things-the-art-of-self-care-in-a-cold-world/#comments</comments>
  2860. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2861. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:42:47 +0000</pubDate>
  2862. <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
  2863. <category><![CDATA[self care]]></category>
  2864. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2865. <category><![CDATA[anxiety]]></category>
  2866. <category><![CDATA[depression]]></category>
  2867. <category><![CDATA[mental illness]]></category>
  2868. <category><![CDATA[panic attacks]]></category>
  2869. <category><![CDATA[panic disorder]]></category>
  2870. <category><![CDATA[schizophrenia]]></category>
  2871. <category><![CDATA[Self care routine]]></category>
  2872. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8517</guid>
  2873.  
  2874. <description><![CDATA[The facts and figures are in, and I personally do not like the results. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in a recently published report from Geneva, twenty-five percent of the world’s population “will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives”. Already, my heart aches, because this gigantic [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2875. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8525" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg" data-orig-size="826,826" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-8525 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" alt=" A woman stands with a peaceful expression, embracing herself with her arms, symbolizing self care and self love." width="300" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg?w=600&amp;h=600 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  2876. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The facts and figures are in, and I personally do not like the results. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in a recently published report from Geneva, twenty-five percent of the world’s population “will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives”. Already, my heart aches, because this gigantic figure, some 450 million individual human beings, represents so much suffering and turmoil, and because mental illness, therefore, is one of the most common causes of “ill-health and disability worldwide”. You want to know what’s possibly even worse? In the same document, WHO reports that, although there is available treatment, it is not consistent globally, and sixty-six percent of people with a diagnosed mental condition never seek help from a health professional or practice self-care.</span></p>
  2877. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Yes, you read that correctly. One in four people across this entire planet suffer from mental illness, and of that massive sum, almost two of three never get help.</span></strong></p>
  2878. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2879. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I have suffered for many years from panic attacks, depression, anxiety and schizophrenia due to severe trauma and abuse and know well the type of pain that goes silently disregarded. It’s only been in recent years that I have felt comfortable opening up about my condition and how it affects me, and the reasons for this are much the same as why people don’t ask for medical help (or any) for their mental illness in general. With so much neglect, shame, and discrimination in the mix, it’s no wonder people choose to hurt quietly — but the madness must end.</span></p>
  2880. </div>
  2881. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2882. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you or someone you know are in the grips of depression, anxiety, or another mental disorder, the above statistics by themselves demonstrate that you are not alone. There are many others struggling with their condition as well, and who also struggle to seek help or care for themselves properly because of the social stigma attached to mental illness.</span></p>
  2883. </div>
  2884. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2885. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">I found my inner strength when, all of a sudden, one day my mom was very sad and collapsed on my shoulder. She was weeping profusely, and, based on what she began to tell me, I suspected right away that she, too, was suffering from depression due to 40 years of infidelity and emotional and physical abuse.I related my own experience to her, and that day I was able to tell someone that I love about that there was nothing to be ashamed of, and gave her the number to a therapist’s office. From that day on, I’ve been doing outreach work to benefit others with mental illness.</span></p>
  2886. </div>
  2887. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2888. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">What I’ve learned throughout the years, as the title says, is that it’s the little things. Mental illness, including depression, can feel like a giant, crushing weight, but there are little things to go along with the big things, such as seeking professional help and staying on a prescribed course of medication, that can help us feel whole and calm.</span></p>
  2889. </div>
  2890. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2891. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Little Thing Number One:</strong> Self-Care</span></p>
  2892. </div>
  2893. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2894. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Self-care is an umbrella term for many activities and behaviors that a person can engage in to help alleviate their symptoms, even just momentarily. What constitutes as self-care is up to the individual, but, for many, self-care can include taking a nice, warm shower with a luxurious soap and feeling clean. Hygiene can be troublesome for people who are at a low point, so just this simple act, or painting your fingernails, or styling your hair, can make a difference in your overall mood. Self-care can also be something as simple or mundane as curling up with a good book, or watching an enjoyable film or program on a streaming service. Engaging in self-care means just that, taking care of yourself, however you feel the need to do so.</span></p>
  2895. </div>
  2896. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2897. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Little Thing Number Two:</strong> Reach Out to Others</span></p>
  2898. </div>
  2899. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2900. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">This doesn’t mean that you need to jump into volunteer work, although that is admirable and something you should pursue if it’s in your heart. Reaching out to others just means taking a big step and opening a channel of communication with someone else. At our low points, we may tend to isolate ourselves, and this can be harmful. If a phone call feels like it’s too much, try a text message, or even an email. Snail mail is less immediate, but some people feel like it has an added personal touch. It’s important that you reach out to someone that you trust and who makes you feel safe — remember that they should be a good listener, but they can never be a “fixer”.</span></p>
  2901. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2902. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Little Thing Number Three:</strong> Support Your Health</span></p>
  2903. </div>
  2904. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2905. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">When in the throes of mental distress, it is far too easy to forget our bodily health. For me, when I suffer from a depressive episode, it becomes almost impossible for me to get rest, and I lie awake all night. Sleep is vital to your health and well-being, and if you, like me, suffer from insomnia related to Schizophrenia or other illness, it’s worth mentioning to your physician or therapist. They’ll often have tips relevant to you and your personal care needs. Others often skip meals when they feel down, but of course maintaining proper nutrition is also of utmost importance. The chemistry of your mind depends on having proper rest, nutrition, and hydration in order to work alongside your medication and other forms of therapy.</span></p>
  2906. </div>
  2907. </div>
  2908. ]]></content:encoded>
  2910. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/its-the-little-things-the-art-of-self-care-in-a-cold-world/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2911. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  2915. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg" />
  2916. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg" medium="image">
  2917. <media:title type="html">self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081</media:title>
  2918. </media:content>
  2919.  
  2920. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2921. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2922. </media:content>
  2923.  
  2924. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/abf20-self-care-health-concept_23-2148512081.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  2925. <media:title type="html"> A woman stands with a peaceful expression, embracing herself with her arms, symbolizing self care and self love.</media:title>
  2926. </media:content>
  2927. </item>
  2928. <item>
  2929. <title>Conquering Anxiety At Bedtime</title>
  2930. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/conquering-anxiety-at-bedtime/</link>
  2931. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/conquering-anxiety-at-bedtime/#comments</comments>
  2933. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  2934. <pubDate>Wed, 21 Aug 2024 12:00:33 +0000</pubDate>
  2935. <category><![CDATA[mental health]]></category>
  2936. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  2937. <category><![CDATA[anxiety]]></category>
  2938. <category><![CDATA[anxiety reduction]]></category>
  2939. <category><![CDATA[Creative Activities]]></category>
  2940. <category><![CDATA[fighting anxiety]]></category>
  2941. <category><![CDATA[managing anxiety]]></category>
  2942. <category><![CDATA[mindfulness]]></category>
  2943. <category><![CDATA[Pre-Emptive Strikes]]></category>
  2944. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8506</guid>
  2945.  
  2946. <description><![CDATA[The alarm clock is the hated, mortal enemy of millions of Americans, from college students to busy executives and everywhere in between. People have relied heavily on crutches like caffeine to keep them going throughout their exhausted days. Special alarm clocks to combat the inability to wake can be found in droves on online web [&#8230;]]]></description>
  2947. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<figure class="cli cli-image js-no-inject">
  2948. <div class="img-sized"><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8513" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg" data-orig-size="826,826" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-8513" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg?w=258&#038;h=258" alt="Image showing a woman sitting on the ground, clutching her face with a distressed expression on her face, indicating signs of anxiety." width="258" height="258" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg?w=258&amp;h=258 258w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg?w=516&amp;h=516 516w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w" sizes="(max-width: 258px) 100vw, 258px" /></a></div>
  2949. </figure>
  2950. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2951. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The alarm clock is the hated, mortal enemy of millions of Americans, from college students to busy executives and everywhere in between. People have relied heavily on crutches like caffeine to keep them going throughout their exhausted days. Special alarm clocks to combat the inability to wake can be found in droves on online web retailers such as Amazon, including some that require you to step out of bed onto a pressure-sensitive mat in order to stop the shriek of the alarm.</span></p>
  2952. </div>
  2953. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2954. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">What lies at the heart of this issue is the fact that insomnia is a downright epidemic in this country and indeed many worldwide<a class=" js-entry-link cet-external-link" role="link" href="https://www.cdc.gov/features/dssleep/index.html" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">. </a>In an article published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, their estimation puts 50 to 70 million Americans the victims of sleep or wakefulness disorders. This is an especially frightening figure in consideration of the dangerous effects of sleep deprivation on the human body. With a population of just over 300 million, this is also a sizeable chunk of the citizens of USA. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America estimates that 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety disorders. They also report that the majority of these 40 million Americans experience anxiety that affects their ability to sleep, and of these, three-fourths experience stress or anxiety <em>because</em> their stress or anxiety keeps them from sleeping. Americans are sleeping less and less, and anxiety is a common, destructive thread.</span></p>
  2955. </div>
  2956. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2957. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">People suffering from anxiety-related sleeplessness are wont to have received the same advice countless times as they seek to battle their affliction. It’s true the same information is pervasive because they are effective ways to battle the night time wakefulness that so many Americans face. Regardless, there are many still scouring the web and consulting their doctors for methods to get more Z’s. Below are some thoughtful and medically informed approaches appropriate for nearly every sufferer of insomnia, but be sure to listen to your body and mind the guidance of your physician.</span></p>
  2958. </div>
  2959. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2960. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Creative Activities</strong></span></p>
  2961. </div>
  2962. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2963. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One recurrent complaint related to insomnia is that people just can’t turn their minds off at night. Anxiety commonly sets in at night because, as we lie in bed and try to close our eyes, little else is happening to distract us. Whenever this happens to you, it could be beneficial to engage in a creative activity to help shut your mind off. The recent adult coloring book trend has become wildly popular because the practice is calming, while also producing beautiful pieces of art. This tiny accomplishment and the peace it offers to troubled minds has shown to be an effective solution for a busy night time mind. If coloring just isn’t for you, there are more alternatives still. Choose something quiet and still, maybe your snoozing cat, and do a quick sketch. If you’re not artistically inclined, you can distract yourself with assembling haikus. These traditional Japanese poems are only three lines, so they aren’t a daunting or overstimulating task.</span></p>
  2964. </div>
  2965. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2966. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Mindfulness</strong></span></p>
  2967. </div>
  2968. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2969. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Meditation doesn’t come easy to everyone, but mindfulness is a very simple form that has grown in popularity in recent years. One of the chief goals of mindfulness is to focus on positive thoughts and achieve a sense of peacefulness. Mindfulness has become a popular and effective strategy to manage anxiety problems in many Americans. Part of clearing the mind is realizing that troubling thoughts are fleeting, and that you have power over them. There are many available methods to study and learn about mindfulness and the techniques that can be employed. You can find mindfulness guides and journals at your local bookstore or an online retailer in order to learn and hone your practice. Another widely used technique to practice mindfulness is through a plethora of apps available on the iTunes App Store, Google Play, and other mobile stores. Calm is an app available for iOS and Android that offers a comprehensive guide as well as mindfulness meditation techniques, and even a nifty feature called the body scan practice.</span></p>
  2970. </div>
  2971. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2972. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Pre-Emptive Strikes</strong></span></p>
  2973. </div>
  2974. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2975. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you anticipate that you will have trouble sleeping long before it’s time to hit the hay, there are a lot of things you can do to help beat out your anxiety before it sets in for the night. Physical activity is a popular resource because it promotes the release of endorphins in the brain and helps you feel overall more tired, but be aware that you need to pick the activity that’s right for you. Just like with an overall exercise regimen, it’s important to choose an activity or activities that you actually enjoy, in order to stick with it. If you hate runs, for example, hang up the athletic shoes and have a twenty minute dance party in your bedroom before your nightly shower, for example. The movement and good vibes will promote positivity and help you come down from a long day of studying, working, parenting, or whatever combination. Stick to your bedtime routine and remember to never slack on taking proper care of yourself, including nutrition and hygiene.</span></p>
  2976. </div>
  2977. <div class="primary-cli cli cli-text ">
  2978. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Anxiety is one of the most common problems faced by adults and teenagers in the United States, and insomnia is often cited as the most common complaint received by doctors and therapists. If you’re experiencing anxiety that feels inescapable, there is help. Talk to someone that you trust and seek medical attention. There’s no shame in treating an illness, be it diabetes or general anxiety disorder. Following the guidance of your health care provider can help reduce the overall amount of stress you experience from day to day, and help improve your ability to sleep at night. For all the gaps in between, the advice within this article can fill them and provide a margin of supplement. Getting a good night’s rest is absolutely vital to our health and happiness of human beings, so buy yourself a mandala coloring book, eat properly throughout the day, and practice excellent self care.</span></p>
  2979. </div>
  2980. ]]></content:encoded>
  2982. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/21/conquering-anxiety-at-bedtime/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  2983. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  2987. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg" />
  2988. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg" medium="image">
  2989. <media:title type="html">anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024</media:title>
  2990. </media:content>
  2991.  
  2992. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  2993. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  2994. </media:content>
  2995.  
  2996. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/97629-anxiety-concept-illustration_114360-8024.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  2997. <media:title type="html">Image showing a woman sitting on the ground, clutching her face with a distressed expression on her face, indicating signs of anxiety.</media:title>
  2998. </media:content>
  2999. </item>
  3000. <item>
  3001. <title> HIIT Fitness Exercises for a Fast Home Workout</title>
  3002. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/19/hiit-fitness-exercises-for-a-fast-home-workout/</link>
  3003. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/19/hiit-fitness-exercises-for-a-fast-home-workout/#comments</comments>
  3005. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  3006. <pubDate>Mon, 19 Aug 2024 13:45:17 +0000</pubDate>
  3007. <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
  3008. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  3009. <category><![CDATA[Bear Crawl]]></category>
  3010. <category><![CDATA[Broad Jumps]]></category>
  3011. <category><![CDATA[Burpees]]></category>
  3012. <category><![CDATA[Butt Kicks]]></category>
  3013. <category><![CDATA[Fast Feet Shuffle]]></category>
  3014. <category><![CDATA[Fitness Exercises]]></category>
  3015. <category><![CDATA[High Knees]]></category>
  3016. <category><![CDATA[HIIT Fitness Exercises]]></category>
  3017. <category><![CDATA[Jump Lunges]]></category>
  3018. <category><![CDATA[Jumping Jacks]]></category>
  3019. <category><![CDATA[Lateral Shuffle]]></category>
  3020. <category><![CDATA[Mountain Climbers]]></category>
  3021. <category><![CDATA[Plank Jacks]]></category>
  3022. <category><![CDATA[Single Leg Deadlift]]></category>
  3023. <category><![CDATA[Squat Jumps]]></category>
  3024. <category><![CDATA[Tuck Jumps]]></category>
  3025. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=8307</guid>
  3026.  
  3027. <description><![CDATA[High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is quite a popular method to burn fat and ensure fitness nowadays. It is different from a steady-state cardio, which keeps your heart rate elevated at the same pace for a longer time period. Instead, HIIT will provide short and intense exercise, along with brief recovery periods.  It gets your [&#8230;]]]></description>
  3028. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h1><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="8312" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg" data-orig-size="826,826" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-8312 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" alt="Image of a woman practicing a fitness exercise with determination and concentration." width="300" height="300" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg?w=300&amp;h=300 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg?w=600&amp;h=600 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg?w=150&amp;h=150 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></h1>
  3029. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is quite a popular method to burn fat and ensure fitness nowadays. It is different from a steady-state cardio, which keeps your heart rate elevated at the same pace for a longer time period. Instead, HIIT will provide short and intense exercise, along with brief recovery periods.  It gets your heart rate way up, allowing you to burn more calories in less time.</span></p>
  3030. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">The great thing about HIIT is that you can do it anywhere with no equipment. It’s perfect for getting an effective workout at home when you’re limited on time. Here’s a look at some of the top HIIT exercises you can incorporate into a high-intensity home workout. Since you can do these workouts at your home, there is no need to look for gyms near me.</span></p>
  3031. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">HIIT Fitness Exercises</span></h2>
  3032. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">1. Jumping Jacks</span></h2>
  3033. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">One of the simplest yet most effective cardio exercises is the humble jumping jack. All you need to do is jump up and spread your legs outwards while bringing your hands overhead in a wide arc. Jump back to the starting position and repeat. Do these in 30-60 second bursts with 30-60 seconds of rest in between.</span></p>
  3034. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">2. High Knees</span></h2>
  3035. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Run in place, lifting your knees as high as you can. Pump your arms back and forth. Focus on picking your knees straight up rather than reaching them outward to better engage your abs. Go as fast as you can for 20-45 second intervals. A personal trainer specializing in HIIT can help you improve this exercise along with time.</span></p>
  3036. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">3. Mountain Climbers</span></h2>
  3037. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Get into a push-up position with your arms straight and body in one long line. Keeping your hips down, bring one knee towards your chest. Switch legs as fast as you can, imitating the climbing motion of your knees to your chest. Keep going for 30-90 seconds. It is much more effective than walking on a treadmill.</span></p>
  3038. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">4. Burpees</span></h2>
  3039. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">The ultimate full-body exercise, burpees are a killer HIIT move. Start standing, then squat down and place your hands firmly on the floor. Kick your feet back into a push-up position in one quick movement. Perform a push-up then immediately bring your feet back in towards your hands. Finish by jumping straight up, reaching your hands overhead. That&#8217;s one rep.</span></p>
  3040. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">5. Skaters </span><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Fitness Exercise</span></h2>
  3041. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Begin standing with feet together. Jump out to one side, and land on one foot as you swing the other leg behind.  Arms swing out to counterbalance. Jump the opposite side, alternating legs. Continue as quickly as possible for a 30-60 second interval. If you don’t have a clear idea of how to do it, the best thing is to look for a personal trainer near me.</span></p>
  3042. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">6. Lateral Shuffle</span></h2>
  3043. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Stand with a wide stance, knees bent. Shuffle quickly to one side by taking small, rapid steps. Ensure your hips and shoulders face the direction you&#8217;re shuffling. Stay on the balls of your feet and don&#8217;t cross them. Switch directions halfway. Maintain the shuffle for 20-45 seconds at a fast pace.</span></p>
  3044. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">7. Plank Jacks </span><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Fitness Exercise</span></h2>
  3045. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Are you looking for a better way to burn fat than just walking on a walking pad? Then you should try this workout. Start in a high plank position with arms straight and body in one long line. Hop both feet outwards while keeping your core tight. Immediately jump them back together to return to the starting plank. That’s one rep. See how many you can do in 20 seconds, taking breaks as needed between sets.</span></p>
  3046. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">8. Squat Jumps</span></h2>
  3047. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Stand with your feet just beyond shoulder width apart. Push your hips back and bend both the hips and knees to lower down into a squat. As you change direction, explode and jump up as high as you can before softly landing back in a squat. Repeat immediately for 30-60 seconds. Land lightly to reduce impact on joints.</span></p>
  3048. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">9. Fast Feet Shuffle </span><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Fitness Exercise</span></h2>
  3049. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Stay on the balls of your feet and try to move them as quickly as possible, alternating front and back for 20 seconds. Increase your speed for the last 5 seconds. This will boost your heart rate in seconds, so recover and repeat. It provides a better workout for your feet than an exercise bike.</span></p>
  3050. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">10. Butt Kicks</span></h2>
  3051. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">While jogging or running at a moderate pace in place, bring your heels up to touch your glutes, then quickly return to your starting jogging pace again. Keep going for 60 seconds, or as long as you can maintain proper form.</span></p>
  3052. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">11. Tuck Jumps </span><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Fitness Exercise</span></h2>
  3053. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Stand with feet shoulder width apart. Push off from the ground and jump up bringing knees in towards your chest while extending arms straight out. Land with soft knees and immediately explode up into the next jump. Shoot for max height bringing knees up as high as possible. Do 10-15 reps.</span></p>
  3054. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">12. <strong>Bear Crawl</strong></span></p>
  3055. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Dynamic bodyweight exercise is done starting on all fours. Walk forward with your right arm and left leg, then your left arm and right leg. Engage your abdominal muscles and try not to let your hips sag. Move forward as continuously as possible for 10-30 feet.</span></p>
  3056. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">13. Broad Jumps</span></h2>
  3057. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Start with your feet hip width apart. Push off balls of feet and jump as far forward as you can. Land with soft knees. Turn around and jump back to your starting position. That&#8217;s one rep. Do 5-8 reps continuing to jump back and forth.</span></p>
  3058. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">14. Jump Lunges</span></h2>
  3059. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Come into a reverse lunge position, left leg back and bent 90 degrees, right knee over ankle. In one movement, push off your right foot and jump up, switching legs in the air so you land in a lunge with your opposite leg back. Repeat jumping back and forth as explosively as possible for 30-60 seconds.</span></p>
  3060. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">15. Single Leg Deadlift </span><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Fitness Exercise</span></h2>
  3061. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Stand on your right leg, lifting left foot a couple inches off the floor. Push your hips back as you hinge at your waist, lowering your torso towards the floor while raising your left leg straight behind you for balance. Drive into your glutes and hamstring to return upright. 8-10 reps then switch sides. This workout is more effective than using a rowing machine.</span></p>
  3062. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">You can mix and match a few of these HIIT fitness exercises for a workout that suits your fitness level. Structure your high-intensity intervals in a format like:</span></p>
  3063. <ul>
  3064. <li><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">20 seconds all-out intensity (as hard as you can work)</span></li>
  3065. <li><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">10 seconds rest</span></li>
  3066. <li><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Repeat cycle 6-8 times total</span></li>
  3067. </ul>
  3068. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Or:</span></p>
  3069. <ul>
  3070. <li><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">30 seconds high intensity</span></li>
  3071. <li><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">30 seconds low intensity (active rest like marching in place or light jogging)</span></li>
  3072. <li><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Repeat cycle 4-5 times total</span></li>
  3073. </ul>
  3074. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Aim to do about 4 different HIIT fitness exercises per workout, spending 3-5 minutes per move depending on your rest interval structure. This will give you an intense 15-25 minute calorie burning session you can easily complete a few times a week in your living room. No equipment required!</span></p>
  3075. <h2><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">Final Words</span></h2>
  3076. <p><span style="font-size: 24px;font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif">The beauty of an at-home HIIT fitness workout is that you can really tailor it to your own fitness level so don’t be afraid to take breaks as needed between rounds. Listen to your body and don’t overdo it on your first few HIIT workouts. Give yourself 1-2 days of rest between HIIT sessions to let your body recover. Make sure to also incorporate strength training and full-body flexibility routines into your exercise regimen for balanced fitness and health.</span></p>
  3077. ]]></content:encoded>
  3079. <wfw:commentRss>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/19/hiit-fitness-exercises-for-a-fast-home-workout/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
  3080. <slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
  3084. <media:thumbnail url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg" />
  3085. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg" medium="image">
  3086. <media:title type="html">hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199</media:title>
  3087. </media:content>
  3088.  
  3089. <media:content url="https://0.gravatar.com/avatar/6a726fcf36461d03f88936dace4d337de3c64627ad965ccfcf4bd7db56f23194?s=96&#38;d=identicon&#38;r=G" medium="image">
  3090. <media:title type="html">shenitae</media:title>
  3091. </media:content>
  3092.  
  3093. <media:content url="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/bbb36-hand-drawn-people-doing-sports-illustration_23-2150621199.jpg?w=300&#038;h=300" medium="image">
  3094. <media:title type="html">Image of a woman practicing a fitness exercise with determination and concentration.</media:title>
  3095. </media:content>
  3096. </item>
  3097. <item>
  3098. <title>How to Stay Motivated on Your Health and Fitness Journey</title>
  3099. <link>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/13/how-to-stay-motivated-on-your-health-and-fitness-journey/</link>
  3100. <comments>https://brainboost.blog/2024/08/13/how-to-stay-motivated-on-your-health-and-fitness-journey/#comments</comments>
  3102. <dc:creator><![CDATA[Dr. Shenita Etwaroo]]></dc:creator>
  3103. <pubDate>Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:05:39 +0000</pubDate>
  3104. <category><![CDATA[Fitness]]></category>
  3105. <category><![CDATA[Health and Fitness]]></category>
  3106. <category><![CDATA[Motivation]]></category>
  3107. <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category>
  3108. <category><![CDATA[exercise]]></category>
  3109. <category><![CDATA[fitness first]]></category>
  3110. <category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
  3111. <category><![CDATA[health and firness]]></category>
  3112. <category><![CDATA[workout]]></category>
  3113. <category><![CDATA[workouts]]></category>
  3114. <guid isPermaLink="false">http://atomic-temporary-220883208.wpcomstaging.com/?p=7833</guid>
  3115.  
  3116. <description><![CDATA[Starting a health and fitness journey is exciting…but it can also be intimidating. But as the high of a new project or goal starts to wear off, and you remember that day-to-day life is going on around your efforts, consistency can be hard. Today we discuss actions that can be taken to ensure you stay [&#8230;]]]></description>
  3117. <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2cf45-group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504.jpg"><img loading="lazy" data-attachment-id="7836" data-permalink="https://brainboost.blog/group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504/" data-orig-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2cf45-group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504.jpg" data-orig-size="1380,947" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-meta="{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}" data-image-title="group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504" data-image-description="" data-image-caption="" data-medium-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2cf45-group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504.jpg?w=300" data-large-file="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2cf45-group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504.jpg?w=616" class="alignnone wp-image-7836 size-medium" src="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2cf45-group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504.jpg?w=300&#038;h=206" alt="A group of individuals are standing together, one person holding a fresh apple in one hand and one person holding a heart. This image represents a commitment to health and fitness." width="300" height="206" srcset="https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2cf45-group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504.jpg?w=300&amp;h=206 300w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2cf45-group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504.jpg?w=600&amp;h=412 600w, https://brainboost.blog/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2cf45-group-diverse-people-holding-health-fitness-icons_53876-165504.jpg?w=150&amp;h=103 150w" sizes="(max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px" /></a></p>
  3118. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Starting a health and fitness journey is exciting…but it can also be intimidating. But as the high of a new project or goal starts to wear off, and you remember that day-to-day life is going on around your efforts, consistency can be hard. Today we discuss actions that can be taken to ensure you stay motivated while trying to push forward on your healthy journey, so if you’re looking for some tools &amp; advice, you’re in the right place!</span></p>
  3119. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Deeper on the components that drive motivation, HOW to set goals that are achievable and creating a supportive environment we will outline actionable steps for you so you experience sustained enthusiasm and dedication. Look forward to a wealth of wisdom, real-world strategies and empowering lessons that will not only rekindle your fire for wanting it but also spark a fresh love affair with caring for the vessel you have been gifted. However, to help understand the real cause of weight gain and unlock your full potential a long term healthier happy lifestyle based on being both eating as well moving healthy let&#8217;s start this fantastic life changing journey together.</span></p>
  3120. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">What Are Your Health and Fitness Goals</span></strong></p>
  3121. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Having health and fitness goals that are well defined has a lot to do with keeping you motivated in the process. Ask yourself some simple questions: Do you want to lose weight or gain muscle mass, boost your stamina, feel better? Set realistic and quantifiable, however challenging goals which contribute to improved learning potential.</span></p>
  3122. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">See what the end outcome looks like, how you feel and then now gather it. Also, try to develop objectives that are both short term and long-term to keep you engaged through every stage of your venture. Divide the bigger goals into smaller milestones, make them easily scalable and then hang your hat on checking those off one by one.</span></p>
  3123. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">When planning your goals, factors such as where you are now, how much time do you have to put into the plan, resources needed and potential obstacles will help guide these. Determine which advantages are most important to you — whether that be a stronger body, greater confidence or just more enjoyment from your active life.</span></p>
  3124. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">And lastly, ensure that your goals are consequential personally — they intertwine with who you want to be or how vigorously you long to live. Linking your health and fitness goals to something you really care about can act as a strong fuel source for maintaining motivation when confronted with setbacks. Keep in mind that every small success is a victory on its own — celebrate the journey!</span></p>
  3125. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Finding Your Why</span></strong></p>
  3126. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Before you begin your health and fitness journey, it is important to know what our “why” is. Your why — the reason you want to improve your health and fitness should matter a lot. Think about what you love or where your ambitions lie.</span></p>
  3127. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Things like wanting more energy to keep up with your kids, or maybe even just feeling confident in the body that you occupy. They say that whatever it is, a deep understanding of why you are doing what you are can help to provide the drive required to stay committed when things get tough.</span></p>
  3128. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Write it Out or Reflect</strong>: You need to do the work of journaling and figure out what is actually driving your desire for change. Start asking yourself, what will it mean to me when I achieve these things? How will that improve my life? Recognizing the meaning and value that your goals hold for you can solidify your commitment.</span></p>
  3129. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Your driving motivation should echo your innermost values and principles — it has to be in sync with who you are at a cellular level. Either way, it should be something that ignites some fire in you and gives you a bit of purpose to keep moving even when things get tough — because they will. This sense of WHAT &amp; WHY you are fighting for is what will keep your alive and motivated throughout the process, not as a desire or an achievement but just within you to do it.</span></p>
  3130. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Building a tangible path to success</span></strong></p>
  3131. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Create Specific Measurable Goals:</strong> The first step in your action plan should be setting clear, measurable goals. Change the conversation of setting a goal from something ambiguous like “lose weight&#8221; to being specific, such as &#8220;I want to lose 10 pounds in two months.&#8221; This clarity enables you to monitor progress and sustain motivation.</span></p>
  3132. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Making Your Goals Manageable:</strong> Break down your goal into small, attainable pieces. Instead, find a way to do the tiniest thing you can every day toward your goal (if it is running a marathon, then maybe just starting by getting up and walking). Every step no matter how small you take is an achievement compared to the zero steps taken by millions of people going in circles doing nothing.</span></p>
  3133. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Enabling the Action Items:</strong> A schedule is allotted to these items.&#8217;); Assign a few hours or whole days in your day/week for workouts, cooking meals that contribute to your health goals and working on other activities (hobbies) which support wellbeing. Make your appointments with yourself non-negotiable.</span></p>
  3134. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Reevaluate Your Plan:</strong> Review your action plan regularly and see what has happened, change it slightly. Change up your tactics that aren&#8217;t working or need adjustment. Celebrate wins but also take the lessons from failures to iterate on your plan over time. However, keep in mind is not about perfection but the pursuit of progress and personal development.</span></p>
  3135. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Building a Support System</span></strong></p>
  3136. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Starting on a journey into health and fitness can be scary but having the right support system you take you to places. Hang around people who inspire you and keep your goals at the top forefront of how YOU are a priority.</span></p>
  3137. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">God sends us people and seasons of encouragement, whether they be our friends or family members, who were there holding your hand when that bad/fun things happens. Or those brave online community members! the courage within to breathe one more time on earth breathing space!! Let them know about the progress you are making, setbacks and victories. This encourages you and push your determination by their positive affirmations, love it or hate but accountability helps.</span></p>
  3138. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you can, find a workout buddy or attend group fitness classes in order to increase your support system. Any physical activity you do in a group environment not only makes it more enjoyable and provides some social benefit while hopefully leading to increased engagement, which could be seen as building community.</span></p>
  3139. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Please note that creating the system is not only about getting warmed but also sharing warmth. Let that also make you the cheerleader for all others on their health-driven paths as well! So, relationships and connections are supportive of each other, creating a network that is based on inspiration rather than competition.</span></p>
  3140. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Embracing Roadblocks and Failures</span></strong></p>
  3141. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">No health and fitness journeys are completed without its challenges and setbacks. Accept them as ways to learn and not things holding you back. Keep in mind, your setbacks are not a reflection of who you are; it is the way that you rise from them. Stay strong, and remember to look at the big picture of your overall health.</span></p>
  3142. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Learn to Love the Process</span></strong></p>
  3143. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">There is a lesson in every setback or challenge and some will allow you to better understand yourself, your habits, your strengths. Take the time to learn from how you navigated that obstacle so you can move around it better next time. Instead, regard any and all setbacks as progress points that help you along your way.</span></p>
  3144. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Cultivate Resilience</span></strong></p>
  3145. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">CF Resilience is a muscle that gets stronger after every milestone. Develop resiliency by thinking of setbacks as temporary obstacles, not permanent walls. Whether it is by finding that inner well of strength or seeing a setback as just another opportunity for you to show how resilient and tough you can really be, remember why this journey through life was ever started.</span></p>
  3146. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">If you feel like quitting, ask for support and keep going.</span></strong></p>
  3147. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Turn to your tribe for advice and words of encouragement during tough times. Keep positive people around you who believe in your ability to conquer. Come out of your cocoon and talk to trusted people; they can give you the right perspective, empathize with you but what is more encouraging this will keep moving on.</span></p>
  3148. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Celebrating Your Progress</span></strong></p>
  3149. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Starting a journey in health and fitness is an achievement within itself. Make sure to take the time and recognize each milestone you come across. That positive reinforcement will not only boost your motivation, but also affirm the behavior.</span></p>
  3150. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">You could celebrate your progress by setting little milestone goals and rewarding yourself when you hit them. Instead of having cheat days, reward yourself with non-food treats such as a spa day, new workout clothes or a weekend trip. Reminders of how far you have come, that will keep bringing back to the forefront because it is worth pursuing your goals.</span></p>
  3151. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">A vision board with a collection of images and quotes that motivate you is another powerful way to honor the strides you have made. Just thinking about this will give you the strength that may be needed to pick yourself up and help encourage others as well. Keep a list of your progress, no matter how small they may be and celebrate each step you have made.</span></p>
  3152. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Also, by telling others about your accomplishments you will be able to double the joy from celebrating that progress. But publicly sharing your wins on social media, telling the people around you about them and even joining a peer group that is also with it will give yourself covering fire in addition to getting credit from others.</span></p>
  3153. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Consistently persistent</span></strong></p>
  3154. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Success in the world of health and fitness comes with two things, consistency and persistence. It’s not necessarily about what you do at times; it is more specifically keyed to what you consistently that sets up change. Consistency and perseverance turn into habits over time, which in effect produces long-term successes.</span></p>
  3155. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">One of the ways is to create a template that would be best for you. Whether it is keeping a specific workout schedule every day, or pre-planning what you are going to eat ahead of time, having your days structured can be very helpful in sticking with the plan. Always show up for yourself, remember that the more you do this day by day even on days when motivation is small, shin would light a new way after another!</span></p>
  3156. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Believe in the power of small victories along your journey. Recognize small wins — be it a difficult workout that&#8217;s done or lighter eating. When we acknowledge our progress and give ourselves credit for everything that we have been doing so far, it has the power to inspire us even more to keep going.</span></p>
  3157. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Whenever you face setbacks or make no progress, remember how far you have come and what caused this journey to be embarked upon in the first place. Remember your prior successes and take solace in the fact that you have overcome these sorts of obstacles before. These moments can serve as a fire which fuel you in moving closer to your desired reality.</span></p>
  3158. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">The Adventure Not the Landing</span></strong></p>
  3159. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Starting a fitness journey isn&#8217;t just about getting to an endpoint; it&#8217;s also what you allow that process to do for the betterment of yourself. Being on that journey is finding happiness in the tiniest step, celebrating victories along the way and growing as an individual after every single challenge you conquer.</span></p>
  3160. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Finding Beauty in the Process</span></strong></p>
  3161. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Rather than being obsessed with what you want to achieve; just relish the ordinary habits that encourage a healthy body and mind. Whether it is devouring a healthy dish, getting an intense workout session or soaking in some self-care — be grateful to these small acts which together define your road towards good health.</span></p>
  3162. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Being More Mindful and Present</span></strong></p>
  3163. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Practice mindfulness when going through your health and fitness practices, be present in every second of it. Use all your senses while you exercise, relish healthy meals to savor their taste and feel what works for YOU when engaging in activities. Be realistic, and stay present to further anchor your relationship with the path.</span></p>
  3164. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Making Mistakes a Driver of Growth</span></strong></p>
  3165. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Regardless of the journey, everyone experiences setbacks along the way and learning to view them as a springboard for further growth can change your life&#8217;s direction. The solution is simple — Instead of getting caught in the frustrating cycle and feeling sorry for ourselves, reflect on all we have learned from that struggle. Understand that every setback brings a new lesson and thus, makes you more resilient to failure than before.</span></p>
  3166. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Finding Joy in the Process</span></strong></p>
  3167. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Take Your Wins:</strong> As you strive towards health and fitness intentions, do not forget to celebrate your small victories. Praise each and every step, whether it be accomplishing a hard workout or picking healthy food over junk. These little wins accumulate and help to fuel your success overall.</span></p>
  3168. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Practice Gratitude:</strong> Every day, make a point to take some time to think about what you are grateful for including in your health and fitness. Take a moment to appreciate your body right now, the chance you have to work out and, in some cases, (if not) all of them and devour good food. You can change your perspective in even the biggest challenge, by being table to practice gratitude.</span></p>
  3169. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Do Things You Enjoy:</strong> Really do things you love in your fitness routine makes a difference. Whether that be dancing, hiking or a certain sport – doing what brings you joy will keep the motivation alive for good! The key to maintaining an active lifestyle is being happy with movement which will allow the whole experience of physical activity less of a burden and much more rewarding.</span></p>
  3170. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"><strong>Have NSV Goals:</strong> (non-scale victories) Instead of basing your whole progress on a number, pay attention to other signs that you are improving. Celebrate more energy, deeper sleep or better mood and also increased strength/endurance. Acknowledging all these non-scale wins will make you so much happier and more satisfied as walk along your health journey!</span></p>
  3171. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Adapting and Changing in Order to Achieve</span></strong></p>
  3172. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Actually, progress is not always a straight line in any health and fitness journey. At the same time that you involve yourself in your objectives, sometimes it is necessary to change its path or even correct after some failures. The key to long-term success is flexibility and the willingness — and ability – to change as you go.</span></p>
  3173. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Here is a simple way to stay on track and change course as life happens — take inventory of your progress then reassess your goal. Get to know yourself: what is working well for you and where does improvement need occur? Keep adjusting to stay on track with your current needs and you&#8217;ll stay headed in the direction of a healthier, fitter version of yourself.</span></p>
  3174. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Remember that change is a part of growth and vice versa. Seeing change as a positive part of growth, instead of looking at it like an obstacle that presents itself during your health &amp; fitness journey can definitely shift the mindset on things you come across. Try new things, step out of your comfort zone and be prepared to learn as you go along — it&#8217;s all part of the journey.</span></p>
  3175. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Adopting the attitude</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px"> of continuous growth means you set yourself up to not be caught off guard — rather show initiative instead of feeling stuck. Take note setbacks are not failures, however opportunities to learn and grow. Focus on the bigger picture, long term success and have faith in yourself that you are more than capable of adapting and evolving to achieve permanent change for your health &amp; fitness.</span></p>
  3176. <p><strong><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Conclusion</span></strong></p>
  3177. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">To wrap up our exploration on how to stay motivated in health and fitness, remember that progress is not linear. Accept and allow the ebbs and flows to be part of it, learn from this. Every small step you make towards your goals, no matter how unimportant or insignificant it may appear onto others — is a proof of just exactly personally committed and resilient in everything that motivates you.</span></p>
  3178. <p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;font-size: 20px">Take stock of how long you have traveled along this path, and take joy in all the attempts you have made to put yourself first. Your health is a journey and short-term changes in diet only provide small, transient benefits — focusing on the big picture will truly make things better including your weight. Stay positive and remember that each day is a new opportunity to make good choices towards your goals. Just keep on pushing, and remember always to be genuine.</span></p>
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  3196. <media:title type="html">A group of individuals are standing together, one person holding a fresh apple in one hand and one person holding a heart. This image represents a commitment to health and fitness.</media:title>
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