WHAT WE FOUND

BY: HANNAH ANDERSSON Some people seem to be pretty content with "it is what it is" or arrive at perspectives in absolute truths. But for some reason I seem to ask question like, "there must be a reason behind the reason" or "what if there is something I'm not seeing, a more expanded perspective?". This curious spirit of mine has proven to be very supported by the Universe always providing me with the information I'm seeking. As Jesus said in Matthew 7:7 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Sade: Album - Your Love is King I was starting to notice a pattern in my own relationships to men, causing me to wonder and ask the Universe to unveil what is hidden from me. What are my blindspots? Shortly after I was divinely guided to this podcast episode with Alison Armstrong as the guest on Know Thyself podcast. What she shared blew my mind! Everything I though I knew about myself and men was truly challenged in the most though provoking and empowering way. Here are some key findings and perspectives from her book the Queen's Code. Alison Armstrong’s The Queen’s Code is a transformative book about understanding and improving relationships between men and women. Written in a narrative style, the book follows the journey of Kimberly, a frustrated woman navigating romantic relationships, as she learns profound lessons about honouring and appreciating men. Guided by her mentor, Claudia, Kimberly embarks on a path to understand “The Queen’s Code”—a metaphorical set of principles that help women unlock their inner queen while bringing out the best in men. Core Themes and Insights from The Queen’s Code: Understanding and Appreciating Men: •Armstrong emphasises the importance of respecting men for who they are rather than trying to change them. She explains that men and women operate differently due to evolutionary biology, culture, and upbringing. • Misunderstandings arise when women view men’s behaviours through a female lens, leading to frustration and conflict. Avoiding “Frog Farming”: • A central metaphor in the book is “frog farming,” where women unintentionally turn princes (good men) into frogs through criticism, mistrust, or unmet expectations. The Queen’s Code teaches women how to reverse this pattern by fostering trust, appreciation, and open communication. Power of Communication: • Armstrong highlights the importance of direct, respectful communication. Women are encouraged to express their needs clearly and to recognise how men process and respond to requests differently. • She explains how men value being seen as providers and protectors, and how women can honour these traits in meaningful ways. Embodying the “Queen”: • The Queen archetype represents a woman who is self-aware, compassionate, and confident. By embodying this energy, women inspire men to rise to their King archetype, fostering mutual growth and fulfilment. Source: Pinterest Armstrong’s 30 Years of Research on Men and Women Over three decades, Alison Armstrong has studied the dynamics between men and women, focusing on their differences, needs, and perceptions. Her research draws on interviews, workshops, and real-life observations. Here are the key findings from her work: 1. Men and Women Have Different Priorities: Armstrong found that men are deeply motivated by a desire to provide, protect, and make a difference, while women often seek connection, security, and emotional fulfilment. Understanding these differences can bridge communication gaps. 2. Hormonal and Biological Differences Shape Behaviour: Armstrong explored how hormonal cycles influence the ways men and women approach challenges, relationships, and decision-making. 3. Cultural Conditioning Causes Misunderstandings:  Many conflicts stem from societal expectations that encourage women to devalue men or expect them to behave like women. Conversely, men are often conditioned to hide vulnerability, leading to emotional disconnection. Source : Pinterest 4. Respect and Appreciation Transform Relationships: Armstrong emphasises that men thrive when they feel respected and appreciated. Women, in turn, flourish when they feel cherished and understood. 5. Partnership is a Team Effort: True partnership requires mutual effort. Men and women must learn to see each other’s strengths, forgive missteps, and support growth. Practical Takeaways for Everyday Life: 1. Shift Perspective: See men not as adversaries but as allies. Understand their intentions and strengths rather than focusing on their perceived shortcomings. 2. Practice Gratitude: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate what men contribute, whether in relationships or daily interactions. 3. Communicate with Clarity: Make direct requests instead of expecting men to “read between the lines.” 4. Embody Grace: Let go of blame and criticism, and approach relationships with curiosity and kindness. The Queen’s Code is both a practical guide and a heartfelt story about personal growth and creating healthier, more fulfilling relationships. Alison Armstrong’s wisdom reminds us that by embracing mutual respect and understanding, men and women can bring out the best in each other. Alison recommends you listen to her audiobook HERE!

BY: HANNAH ANDERSSON The 7 Hermetic Principles, derived from ancient teachings in “The Kybalion, three initiates” offer profound wisdom about the universe and our role within it. These principles provide a blueprint for understanding life’s mysteries and enhancing mindfulness and wellbeing. Let’s explore each principle and how to integrate it into daily life for a more harmonious existence. Source: Pinterest 1. The Principle of Mentalism “The All is Mind; the Universe is Mental.” This principle teaches that everything begins with the mind. Our thoughts shape our reality, and by mastering our mental state, we can influence our lives. Application: Mindfulness Practice: Start each day with prayer, positive affirmations or meditation to align your thoughts with your desired mental and emotional states and outcomes. Journaling: Reflect on and write down your thoughts and identify patterns that might be holding you back. Replace limiting beliefs with empowering ones. 2. The Principle of Correspondence “As above, so below; as below, so above.” This principle reflects the interconnectedness of all things. The macrocosm mirrors the microcosm, and understanding one helps you understand the other. Application: Nature Connection: Spend time in nature to observe how patterns in the environment mirror aspects of your life. Holistic Living: Align your external environment (home, work) with your inner goals by decluttering and organising your spaces. 3. The Principle of Vibration “Nothing rests; everything moves; everything vibrates.” Everything is in constant motion and vibration, from the smallest atom to the vast cosmos. Higher vibrations attract positivity and growth. Application: Energy Awareness: Surround yourself with uplifting people, music, and activities that elevate your energy. Emotional Regulation: Practice breathwork, somatic movement, exercise to raise your vibration when feeling low. 4. The Principle of Polarity “Everything is dual; everything has poles.” Opposites are two extremes of the same thing. Understanding this helps us find balance and transform negative experiences into growth opportunities. Application: Reframing Challenges: When faced with difficulties, identify the hidden benefits or lessons. Balance Practices: Incorporate yin-yang activities, such as alternating between active workouts and restorative yoga. Source: Pinterest 5. The Principle of Rhythm “Everything flows, out and in; everything has its tides.” Life follows natural cycles. Understanding and embracing these rhythms help us navigate life with grace. Application: Daily Rhythms: Plan your day around your energy peaks and troughs. For example, schedule focused work during high-energy times. Acceptance: Acknowledge that both highs and lows are natural. Use downtime for rest and reflection rather than resistance. 6. The Principle of Cause and Effect “Every cause has its effect; every effect has its cause.” This principle reminds us that our actions and thoughts have consequences. By becoming intentional, we can influence our outcomes. Application: Mindful Choices: Before acting, pause to consider the potential ripple effects of your decision. Accountability: Take responsibility for your actions and learn from unintended outcomes. 7. The Principle of Gender “Gender is in everything; everything has its Masculine and Feminine Principles.” This principle highlights the balance between active (masculine) and receptive (feminine) energies in all aspects of life. Application: Creative Balance: Balance periods of doing (masculine) with moments of being (feminine). For instance, follow intense work sessions with quiet reflection. Harmonious Relationships: Cultivate empathy and assertiveness to create balanced connections with others. Source: Pinterest Bringing It All Together The 7 Hermetic Principles offer timeless guidance for living a balanced and mindful life. By aligning with these principles, you can foster greater self-awareness, inner peace, and a deeper connection to the universe. Start small by applying one principle at a time, and watch as your life transforms into a harmonious blend of purpose and wellbeing. Remember, true transformation begins with awareness. The universe is mental, vibrational, and rhythmic—just like you. Embrace the wisdom of these principles, and let them guide you to a life of mindfulness and fulfilment.

BY: ALVA POLETTI All my life, I have regarded nostalgia as the union of loss and grief—two constant companions that have walked beside me for as long as I can remember. This relationship has often been the root of my recurring bouts of depression. Many times, I have wished to rid myself of this part of my mind, to focus more on the music of the present than the siren songs of the past. You see, being deeply nostalgic means experiencing little deaths  everywhere, every day—whether it’s the redesign of a milk carton, the deconstruction of a building, or the cutting down of a familiar tree. Living life as a nostalgic is, in a way, an endless period of grieving for moments that have passed and will never return. While others have told me I should treasure my memories, I have often viewed them as nothing more than the enablers of my nostalgia. My memory, although a treasure chest, has often felt too weighty to carry, for every treasure, after all, comes with the burden of loss. Yet recently, life has shown me that nostalgia might not be entirely detrimental. Perhaps it has served  a purpose, after all, preparing me for the greatest pain a living soul can endure: the death of a loved one. For context—and to give full disclosure—my cat of 14 years has just died. In the days following his death, I found myself drowning in an endless stream of tears and sorrow. Although the feeling of loss itself wasn’t unfamiliar—my nostalgia had already shown me its contours—this grief existed on another level. It was consuming, and yet it never felt sufficient. I thought I would cry for the rest of my life. If something as trivial as the Sims 2  loading screen could previously move me to tears, then you can imagine the devastation of realising your best friend since childhood now existed in a place beyond reach. At first, I thought the solution to making my grief feel sufficient was to make the whole world mourn him. Perhaps then, the sorrow might subside. But what I eventually came to understand was that trying to teach others to love him so they might mourn him was a fruitless task. As Winnie the Pooh wisely said to Piglet: “Love isn’t something you spell; it’s something you feel.” If you’re not a feelings  person, allow me to explain it with the laws of physics. Newton’s third law states: for every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction . In simpler terms, losing is the reaction to having; grieving is the reaction to loving. The more beautiful memories you create, the more beautiful moments you lose. The deeper you have loved, the deeper you will grieve. No one could grieve him as much as I do because no one has loved him as deeply as I have. This perspective—while by no means revolutionary—has helped me. It has allowed me to face the ugly beast of loss and even embrace it. Allowing love and grief, having and losing, crying and laughing, missing and gratitude to coexist is, I’ve found, a beautiful place to be. And while losing someone I loved so deeply has amplified my sorrow infinitely, I feel that my nostalgia has, in its own way, prepared me for the greater losses that we all must eventually face. Just like fear and bravery are are intertwined, so are loss and love inseparable. One cannot exist without the other. And while grief feels unbearable in its intensity, it stands as a testament to the depth of the love that preceded it. That, I believe, is the true essence of nostalgia: not simply a reflection of loss, but a profound and enduring testament to love. Now, whenever I am engulfed by a wave of sorrow, I return to this quote (also from the one and only Pooh): “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.”

BY: HANNAH ANDERSSON In the pursuit of personal and professional growth, our journey often leads us to confront tasks that challenge us and test our limits. Yet, it is within the crucible of discomfort that our true potential emerges, fueled by the fire of determination and resilience. Embracing the discomfort of difficult tasks is not merely a test of endurance; it is a transformative journey that fortifies our willpower and propels us towards greater heights of achievement. A difficult task encompasses any endeavor that stretches our abilities, demands sustained effort, and requires us to venture beyond our comfort zones. It may involve confronting fears, overcoming obstacles, or navigating uncertainty. From tackling daunting projects at work to embarking on personal challenges that push our boundaries, difficult tasks are opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Engaging in tasks or activities that we may not initially want to do can significantly bolster our willpower and enhance our ability to exert cognitive control. This process, known as the "activation of the anterior midcingulate cortex (aMCC)," is pivotal in strengthening our resolve and resilience. At the heart of this phenomenon lies the principle of cognitive flexibility—the capacity to adapt our thoughts and behaviours in response to changing circumstances. By willingly confronting tasks outside our comfort zones, we challenge ourselves to overcome resistance and embrace new experiences, thereby expanding our cognitive repertoire. Consider the analogy of physical exercise: just as lifting weights builds muscle strength, tackling challenging tasks builds mental fortitude. Each instance of pushing through discomfort or resistance strengthens the neural circuits associated with self-control and decision-making, gradually enhancing our capacity for disciplined action. Moreover, the activation of the anterior midcingulate cortex, a key region of the brain implicated in cognitive control, plays a crucial role in regulating attention, emotions, and decision-making processes. When we confront tasks that demand sustained effort and focus, the aMCC is mobilized, coordinating our cognitive resources to overcome obstacles and achieve our goals. Embracing discomfort also fosters psychological growth and resilience. By confronting challenges head-on, we cultivate a growth mindset—one that thrives on learning and adaptation. Each small victory over procrastination or avoidance reaffirms our belief in our ability to overcome obstacles, empowering us to tackle even greater challenges in the future. Furthermore, the act of prioritizing long-term goals over immediate gratification strengthens our capacity for delayed gratification—a hallmark of self-discipline and willpower. As we develop the habit of choosing discomfort in service of our aspirations, we cultivate a sense of agency and autonomy over our lives, fostering a deeper sense of fulfillment and purpose. In essence, embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth and self-improvement is a powerful strategy for enhancing willpower and cognitive control. By challenging ourselves to step outside our comfort zones and confront adversity with courage and determination, we unlock our full potential and cultivate the resilience needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. This video with Andrew Huberman explains it as well.

BY: HANNAH ANDERSSON Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is an ancient herb that has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to promote overall health and well-being. In recent years, scientific research has increasingly validated its medicinal properties, shedding light on the numerous health benefits it offers. From reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing cognitive function and boosting immunity, Ashwagandha has emerged as a powerful adaptogen with a wide range of therapeutic effects. Source : Pinterest Stress Reduction and Anxiety Management: One of the most well-known benefits of Ashwagandha is its ability to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Several studies have demonstrated that Ashwagandha extract can significantly lower cortisol levels, the primary stress hormone in the body. By modulating the body's stress response system, Ashwagandha helps promote a sense of calm and relaxation, thereby reducing anxiety and improving overall mental well-being. Improved Cognitive Function: Ashwagandha has also been shown to support cognitive function and enhance memory and concentration. Research suggests that Ashwagandha extract may protect against neurodegenerative diseases by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. Additionally, it may promote the formation of new neural connections, leading to improved cognitive performance and mental clarity. Enhanced Immune Function: The immune-boosting properties of Ashwagandha have been widely studied and documented. Ashwagandha extract contains potent antioxidants and immune-modulating compounds that help strengthen the body's natural defense mechanisms. By enhancing the activity of immune cells and reducing inflammation, Ashwagandha supports overall immune function and helps protect against infections and illnesses. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation is linked to a wide range of health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Ashwagandha possesses powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha extract can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes, thereby alleviating inflammation and its associated symptoms. Hormonal Balance: Ashwagandha has been traditionally used to support hormonal balance in both men and women. Research indicates that Ashwagandha extract may help regulate cortisol levels, optimize thyroid function, and balance reproductive hormones. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with stress-related hormonal imbalances, adrenal fatigue, and fertility issues. Enhanced Physical Performance: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts may also benefit from Ashwagandha supplementation due to its potential to enhance physical performance and endurance. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha extract can improve strength, stamina, and muscle recovery, making it a valuable supplement for individuals looking to optimize their athletic performance. In conclusion, Ashwagandha is a versatile herb with a wide range of scientifically proven health benefits. From reducing stress and anxiety to enhancing cognitive function, boosting immunity, and promoting overall well-being, Ashwagandha offers valuable support for both physical and mental health. As always, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplement into your routine, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medication.

BY: ALVA POLETTI Picture a life without the modern convenience of a refrigerator, or imagine an era where massive blocks of ice were indispensable for maintaining the cooling cabinet at an optimal temperature. I can't help but marvel at the indispensable role this magical appliance plays in my daily routine, haha, preserving my food's freshness and ensuring my beverages remain refreshingly cool. Hahah, I certainly didn’t think I'd find myself composing a love letter to a kitchen appliance when I woke up this morning, yet, here I am so we’re going with it! However, I recently came across a video with Cardiologist Dr. Umair Jangda that made me question everything I though I knew (I might be exaggerating juuust a tad, but then again no, I was seriously shockeddd!) In this video, Dr. Jangda shed light on certain foods that should never find their way into the fridge, as they undergo a toxic (!!) transformation in its cool, moist environment. Continue reading to find out which foods you should avoid refrigerating. Source: Cap Beauty Onions Often, alongside garlic, onions mistakenly find themselves relegated by unknowing consumers like my (previous) self. Whether they are whole or divided in two, onions possess a remarkable ability to attract bacteria from their surroundings. In the video Dr. Jangda even revealed a household remedy: during illness, placing a slice of onion in a room helps combat unhealthy bacteria. Thus, despite the absence of visible mold, onions absorb and harbour bacteria within the fridge. Peeled Garlic As a water-rich crop, garlic tend to absorb moisture within the refrigerator, rendering it a breeding ground for mold. Consuming mold-infested garlic can trigger respiratory symptoms. Furthermore, the formation of mycotoxins, associated with late-stage mold, has been linked to carcinogenic effects. Dr. Jangda advocates for storing garlic in dry pantry conditions, mitigating the risk of mold. Cooked Rice "[...] rice is one of the ingredients that catches mold the fastest.” Dr. Jangda says and advises a strict time limit of no more than 24 hours if refrigeration is necessary. Alternatively, opt for dry, shaded storage outside the fridge, or better yet, refrain from cooking excessive quantities in advance. For those seeking a nutritious, long-lasting carbohydrate source that actually becomes healthier when cooled, consider potatoes instead. Ginger While fresh ginger has a lot of health benefits, irefrigeration can compromise its good properties. Dr. Jangda elucidates how the refrigerator's cool, damp environment fosters mold growth on fresh ginger, potentially rendering it toxic upon ingestion. Instead, store ginger in a dry, well-ventilated space, thus ensuring its longevity and nutritional value. Now, I can for sure say I'll be spending my evening cleaning out the fridge, how about you? Over n' out, peeps!

BY: ALVA POLETTI We all know that drinking water is crucial for our physical well-being and that it has also become somewhat of a trend in recent years. Yet, determining the right amount to drink, when to drink it, and how much, still seems to be up for debate. So, how much water should one actually drink? I made it my mission to unravel the mysteries surrounding water intake, seeking a simple answer or even better –– a universal equation. And I must say, I’ve done pretty good. Now, without further a do, let's dive into (see what I did there ;)) the research and tackle the burning question of optimal water consumption. Source: @haileybieber First and foremost, let's explore why water is so vital to our health. In essence, besides maintaining proper hydration levels, water regulates body temperature, aids digestion, flushes out toxins, lubricates joints, boosts energy levels, hydrates the skin, supports cognitive function, aids in weight management, and enhances physical performance. Phew! That's quite the list, but I think it underscores just how essential water is for our overall well-being. But is there such a thing as too much water? The answer is both yes and no. While there's technically no limit to the amount of water you can consume in a day, there is a critical threshold when it comes to how much you should drink within a 15-20 minute window. Consuming two or more liters of water in such a short timeframe can be dangerous, potentially leading to water poisoning, as the excessive fluid intake can cause brain swelling. Now, while numerous scientists and researchers offer their perspectives on daily water intake, there's no one-size-fits-all answer. Like many aspects of health, it's highly individualized. However, I found that there's a general consensus that staying adequately hydrated throughout the day is crucial. A rule of thumb is to aim for 8 oz (≈240 ml) of water every hour for the first 10 waking hours, totaling approximately 2.3 liters. Then, for the remainder of the day, aim for 5 oz (≈150 ml) per hour. This recommendation applies regardless of physical activity or environmental temperature, meaning it's relevant even when lounging in bed in an air-conditioned room. For those curious about hydration during exercise, there's a handy formula provided by Andrew Huberman and Dr. Andy Galpin called the Galpin Equation: bodyweight in lbs / 30 = the number of oz of fluid to ingest every 15-20 minutes while exercising Alternatively, if you're using the metric system: bodyweight in kg * 2 = the number of ml of fluid to ingest every 15-20 minutes while exercising It's worth noting that you don't need to strictly adhere to sipping water every 15-20 minutes for optimal hydration. The formula serves as a helpful guideline, rather than a rigid rule, offering direction on maintaining effective hydration levels during physical activity. I hope this article was helpful in navigating and narrowing down all the information that can be found on the internet. Over n' out, peeps!

BY: HANNAH ANDERSSON As I navigate life with its trials and tribulations I have come to understand that I need to start recognising the power and wisdom in failure. Rather than allowing it to become a fear that sets me back from keep on trying, I try to reframe my perspective and view failures or things not going as hoped as a powerful teacher. I decided to study failure more and expand my understanding of what happens when we have a fear of failure. And how we can overcome it and use it as powerful fuel on our journey. Here are some of my findings and perspectives on the topic of fear. Image : Inner Growth Collective Fear of failure is a deeply ingrained aspect of human psychology, stemming from a combination of social, cultural, and personal factors. Understanding why we are afraid of failure can shed light on the underlying reasons behind this common fear: Social Expectations: Society often places a high value on success and achievement, associating failure with inadequacy or incompetence. From a young age, we are conditioned to strive for perfection and fear the consequences of falling short of expectations set by others. Self-Esteem and Identity: Failure can be perceived as a threat to our self-esteem and identity. When we fail at something, we may internalize the experience as evidence of our worthlessness or incompetence, leading to feelings of shame, embarrassment, and self-doubt. Fear of Judgment: We fear the judgment and criticism of others that may accompany failure. The prospect of being ridiculed, rejected, or ostracized by peers and colleagues can evoke feelings of anxiety and apprehension, prompting us to avoid taking risks or pursuing our goals. Loss Aversion: Humans are naturally averse to loss and tend to prioritize avoiding losses over potential gains. Failure represents a loss of time, effort, resources, and reputation, leading us to perceive it as a threat to our well-being and security. Perfectionism: Perfectionism is a double-edged sword—it drives us to excel and achieve high standards, but it also sets unrealistic expectations and fosters a fear of failure. The fear of making mistakes or falling short of perfection can paralyze us and prevent us from taking action. Uncertainty and Unknown Outcomes: Failure often entails uncertainty and unpredictability about the future. The fear of the unknown can trigger anxiety and apprehension, causing us to avoid situations where failure is a possibility, even if they offer opportunities for growth and learning. Conditioning and Past Experiences: Past experiences of failure or rejection can shape our beliefs and attitudes toward failure. Negative experiences may reinforce the belief that failure is inevitable or insurmountable, further intensifying our fear and avoidance of failure in the future. Image : Inner Growth Collective Despite these fears, it's important to recognize that failure is an inherent part of the human experience—a natural and inevitable aspect of growth, learning, and self-discovery. By reframing failure as a valuable opportunity for learning, resilience, and personal development, we can overcome our fear and embrace failure as a stepping stone toward success and fulfillment. So what if we embraced failure as a powerful teacher—one that guides us toward our fullest potential and deepest wisdom? Failure, when viewed through the lens of positivity and growth, becomes a transformative force—an opportunity for learning, self-discovery, and personal evolution. Here's how we can shift our perspective on failure and harness its potential for positive change: Embrace the Growth Mindset: Cultivate a growth mindset—a belief that intelligence, abilities, and talents can be developed through dedication and effort. Instead of viewing failure as evidence of inherent limitations, see it as a natural part of the learning process—an opportunity to grow, adapt, and improve. Extract Lessons from Failure: Every failure carries valuable lessons and insights that can guide us toward success. Take time to reflect on your failures and identify the lessons they offer. What went wrong? What could you have done differently? How can you apply these lessons to future endeavors? Celebrate Effort and Progress: Shift your focus from outcomes to efforts and progress. Celebrate the courage and resilience it takes to pursue your goals, regardless of the outcome. Recognize that setbacks and failures are an integral part of the journey toward success, and each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory in itself. Redefine Success: Challenge societal notions of success and redefine what it means to achieve. Instead of measuring success solely by external achievements or accolades, consider success as the continuous pursuit of personal growth, fulfillment, and authenticity. Embrace the journey, with its twists and turns, as part of the beauty of the human experience. Cultivate Resilience and Perseverance: Resilience is the ability to bounce back from adversity, setbacks, and failures. Cultivate resilience by nurturing a sense of optimism, self-belief, and perseverance in the face of challenges. Remember that every failure is a temporary setback—a detour on the road to success. Practice Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself in times of failure. Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with kindness, understanding, and acceptance. Acknowledge your efforts and courage, and remind yourself that failure does not define your worth or potential. Foster a Supportive Environment: Surround yourself with supportive individuals who uplift and encourage you, even in times of failure. Seek guidance, mentorship, and inspiration from those who have faced similar challenges and emerged stronger and wiser. Image : Inner Growth Collective In conclusion, failure is not the opposite of success—it is an integral part of the journey toward success. By embracing failure with a positive mindset, extracting lessons from setbacks, and cultivating resilience and perseverance, we can transform failure into a powerful catalyst for growth, learning, and personal fulfillment. So, dare to fail, dare to learn, and dare to grow— for in the face of failure lies the seed of greatness.

BY: HANNAH ANDERSSON When the pain of staying the same exceeds the pain of change, it often triggers a psychological phenomenon known as the "tipping point" or the "motivation for change." This pivotal moment occurs when we reach a threshold where the discomfort or dissatisfaction with our current situation becomes intolerable, compelling us to seek alternative solutions or make significant changes in our lives. Psychologically, several factors come into play when the pain of staying the same surpasses the pain of change: Cognitive Dissonance: Cognitive dissonance occurs when there is a discrepancy between our beliefs, attitudes, and behaviours. When we recognize that our current situation contradicts their desired goals, values, or aspirations, it creates a sense of psychological discomfort or tension. This discrepancy motivates us to seek alignment between our beliefs and behaviours, often leading to a desire for change. Emotional Discomfort: Emotional discomfort arises when we experience negative emotions such as frustration, dissatisfaction, or unhappiness with our current circumstances. As these emotions intensify, we become increasingly motivated to seek relief and pursue alternative paths that offer greater fulfillment or satisfaction. Desire for Growth and Fulfillment: Human beings are inherently driven by a desire for growth, self-improvement, and fulfillment. When we recognize that our current situation limits our potential or inhibits our personal growth, we become motivated to explore new opportunities, challenge themselves, and expand their horizons. Perception of Control: The perception of control plays a crucial role in motivating change. When we believe that we have the power to influence our circumstances and create positive outcomes, we are more likely to take proactive steps toward change. As we regain a sense of agency and control over our lives, we become empowered to embrace change and navigate challenges more effectively. Shift in Priorities and Values: As we evolve and mature, our priorities, values, and life goals may undergo significant changes. When the pain of staying the same begins to conflict with our evolving priorities and values, we are compelled to reevaluate our choices, make adjustments, and pursue paths that align more closely with our authentic selves. In summary, when the pain of staying the same exceeds the pain of change, we experience a psychological shift that motivates us to seek alternative solutions, embrace new opportunities, and pursue paths that lead to greater fulfillment, growth, and well-being. This tipping point marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward self-discovery, empowerment, and personal evolution. So remember, it's a natural process and journey of life for most human beings to experience this. Old ways, won't open new, doors. So grow through what you go through, and remember that growing might feel like breaking at first. <3

BY: HANNAH ANDERSSON In our journey towards holistic well-being, nurturing the mind is just as crucial as caring for the body. Similar to how we regulate our physical diet to maintain optimal health, cultivating a healthy mental diet involves both internal mindfulness and external awareness of what we consume. Source: Pinterest Internal Mental Diet: At the core of a healthy mental diet lies the practice of internal mindfulness—being conscious of the thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes that permeate our inner landscape. Just as the food we eat impacts our physical health, the thoughts we entertain shape our mental and emotional well-being. Positive Affirmations: Start your day with positive affirmations that affirm your worth, capabilities, and potential. Repeat affirmations such as "I am worthy of love and respect" or "I trust in my ability to overcome challenges" to cultivate a positive mindset. Gratitude Practice: Foster a mindset of gratitude by reflecting on the things you're thankful for each day. Whether it's a beautiful sunrise, a kind gesture from a friend, or the simple joys of life, practicing gratitude helps shift your focus from lack to abundance. Mindfulness Meditation: Incorporate mindfulness meditation into your daily routine to observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment. By cultivating awareness of your inner landscape, you can choose to let go of negative or unhelpful thoughts and embrace a sense of inner peace and clarity. Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and compassion, especially during difficult times. Acknowledge your struggles and imperfections without judgment, and remind yourself that it's okay to be human and make mistakes. External Consumption: In addition to internal mindfulness, it's essential to be mindful of the external influences and content we consume on a daily basis. From media and social interactions to books and online content, the information we expose ourselves to can significantly impact our mental and emotional well-being. Media Consumption: Be selective about the media you consume, including news, social media, and entertainment. Choose sources that provide credible and balanced information while limiting exposure to negative news and content. Social Interactions: Surround yourself with positive and supportive individuals who uplift and inspire you. Limit time spent with people who drain your energy or perpetuate negativity. Books and Literature: Select reading material that stimulates your mind, promotes personal growth, and nourishes your soul. Whether it's self-help books, literature, or poetry, choose content that enriches your intellect and uplifts your spirit. Online Content: Curate your digital consumption mindfully by following accounts and websites that share valuable insights and promote positivity. Unfollow or mute accounts that spread negativity or promote unhealthy ideals. By integrating both internal mindfulness and external awareness into our daily lives, we can cultivate a healthy mental diet that nourishes our minds, uplifts our spirits, and fosters a sense of well-being and fulfillment. Just as we nourish our bodies with nutritious foods, let us nourish our minds with wholesome thoughts, uplifting content, and meaningful interactions, creating a foundation for a vibrant and balanced life.