If You Believe This, It Could Add 7.5 Years to Your Life, Study Finds

 Changing your point of view could help you live longer.

If you could do something to add more healthy years to your life, you'd do it—wouldn't you? Of course, certain things that are proven to help with longevity, like cutting junk food out of your diet, avoiding alcohol, and getting regular exercise, may not be as easy to put into practice as we might wish. But what if simply shifting your thinking could make a difference in the length of your life?One doctor is spreading the word that, in fact, your beliefs have a much greater impact on how long you'll live than you probably realize, and she's backing it up with eye-opening data from a study that supports her claim. Read on to find out how changing your point of view could help you live longer—and feel better throughout those extra years.

Life expectancy has been steadily rising over time.

Becca Levy, PhD, a professor of epidemiology at Yale School of Public Health and professor of psychology at Yale University, is the author of Breaking the Age Code, which explores how beliefs about aging impact our longevity. In her book, she points out that over the span of human history, our lifespans have effectively tripled. "In the last 120 years, we have added thirty years to life expectancy," she says.However, she writes, not everyone views this as a positive development. "Instead of viewing the global increase in longevity as the victory that humanity has dreamt of for thousands of years, it is largely portrayed as a natural disaster that will burden world populations." Why? "There is a perception commonly presented in the media that increasing longevity will sap the public coffers and overfill our hospitals," she explains.

Ageism is rampant in our society.

Structural ageism, says Levy, is largely to blame for the media's—and our own—negative attitude toward increased longevity. As an example, she cites older job applicants being consistently passed over for younger workers. This has been well-documented in multiple studies, including a 2017 study published in Frontiers in Psychology which found that hiring managers' own views on aging impacted their decisions.Levy also laments the lack of positive representation of older people on television, in the movies, and across all types of media. In her book, she writes at length about Emmy Award-winning actor Doris Roberts, who co-starred on the beloved sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond before passing away at age 90 in 2016. In a hearing on ageism in 2002, Roberts testified before Congress: "My peers and I are portrayed as dependent, helpless, unproductive, and demanding rather than deserving," Roberts said. "In reality, the majority of seniors are self-sufficient middle-class consumers with more assets than most young people and the time and talent to offer society.""There's been research that shows that when people of a group are not represented in media, that that can lead to kind of marginalization of that group," Levy tells Best Life.

Our beliefs influence our health.

Ageism doesn't just affect how we feel about ourselves as we get older—it has a measurable effect on our bodies, as well. "We have found evidence that it can impact a number of different health systems, including the cardiovascular and cognitive systems," Levy says."One of the reasons that it has an impact on so many different systems is that these age beliefs can operate as a lens on how we take in information and how much stress we experience," she continues. "And that can also act as an upstream factor and impact our health… including cortisol levels and cardiovascular response to stress. Those mechanisms in turn can have an impact on a number of different systems in our bodies."

Having positive feelings about aging can impact how long you live.

In her research, Levy looked at a study conducted between 1975 and 1995 that included data from about a thousand participants over the age of 50 living in Oxford, Ohio. Subjects were asked a number of questions about their health, lives, and families, as well as about their attitude toward getting older. Although the study provided "one of the richest and most detailed perspectives on aging in late twentieth-century America," according to Levy, no one had ever followed up by recording how long the participants had lived after the completion of the study.When Levy did so, she found something shocking: "Participants with the most positive views of aging were living, on average, seven and a half years longer than those with the most-negative views." Her research found that people's beliefs about aging transcended "gender, race, socioeconomic status, age, loneliness, and health. Age beliefs stole or added almost eight years to their lives…"Other factors that many of us might assume would make a big impact on longevity were less important than beliefs about aging. Having low cholesterol and low blood pressure only added an average of four years to people's lives, not smoking added three years, and a low body mass index added just one year.

Becoming more aware of negative messages about aging is a good first step toward ending ageism.

"It's hard not to take in some of the negative messages about aging," says Levy. Ultimately, she believes that "the one thing [we could do to improve longevity] would be to reduce structural ageism." However, since that goal is not something people can accomplish on an individual level, she suggests that "becoming more active consumers of media" is one way to combat negative views of aging. "Watching proactively and becoming aware of the images of aging… is helpful," she explains.Medical professionals, too, could do more to encourage their patients' positive feelings about getting older. "One of the ways to improve that would be to improve medical education and improve access to quality geriatrics courses, and also to add information about ageism… to become aware of when patients have been exposed to ageism, that might be impacting their health. That's something that would be great to add to medical training," Levy says. "[We need] to find ways to celebrate accept and celebrate aging."

Elizabeth Laura Nelson

Never Drink This During a Heat Wave, Experts Warn

 Consuming these drinks could put you at unnecessary risk.

As many states are in the midst of the first heat wave of the year, residents are trying to cope with the climbing temperatures outside. While a hot day can be a fun time to jump in the pool or hit the beach, being outside in the heat comes with some risks, including heat stroke and dehydration. And there are some hazards you might not even be aware of. Experts say that avoiding certain beverages can help lower your risk of experiencing adverse effects from the heat. Read on to find out what you should never drink during a heat wave.

Avoid alcohol and only drink caffeine in moderation during a heat wave.

Experts warn that consuming beverages that dehydrate you should be avoided during a heat wave. While alcohol is the biggest culprit of dehydration, other drinks should be ditched or consumed in limited quantities. Riana Pryor, PhD, a professor in the Department of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, told USA Today that during a heat wave, caffeine of any kind, including soda, tea, and coffee, must be consumed in moderation, while alcohol should be fully ruled out because it can further dehydrate you.

All of these beverages can exacerbate dehydration.

You might be tempted to reach for an ice-cold soda on a hot day, but it's not the best idea. A July 2016 study published in the American Journal of Physiology found that soft drinks worsen dehydration and increase kidney injuries. Heather Mangieri, RDN, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, told Prevention that coffee and tea can be consumed safely in hot weather by people who are accustomed to these drinks, as long as they're also drinking an ample amount of water. "For consistent caffeine drinkers, beverages like iced tea or coffee can actually contribute to your daily fluid intake," Mangieri explained. However, "for non-caffeine drinkers, caffeinated beverages will have a more pronounced effect, especially on a hot day."Alcohol is a no-go, she added. "It contributes to increased urine output, which ups the risk of dehydration," Mangieri said. Running to the bathroom more frequently and trying to rehydrate aren't the only things you need to worry about when drinking alcohol in the heat. According to Flushing Hospital, "The body's temperature is regulated by the hypothalamus gland. Alcohol will cause a slowing down of the hypothalamus, so if the body is already hot because of the heat, the effects of alcohol will make the body think it is even hotter."

Look out for signs of dehydration.

When the sun is sizzling, be sure to keep an eye out for signs that you're dehydrated. The color of your urine can be a key indicator of how hydrated you are. Pryor told USA Today that if your urine is the color of lemonade or lighter, you're in the clear. However, if your urine is the color of apple juice or darker, then you need to be consuming more water. According to Dental Touch, bad breath can also be a sign of dehydration. When you're dehydrated, you're not producing enough saliva, so "without saliva there to clean out debris, bacteria have the chance to grow and cause bad breath," the site explains.Per the U.K.'s National Health Service (NHS), other signs of dehydration include feeling thirsty, tired, dizzy, or lightheaded. Dry mouth, lips, or eyes could also be signs that you need more water.

Stay inside as much as possible on exceedingly hot days.

There are a few key things you can do to stay safe during a heat wave. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests staying inside in cool air, drinking plenty of water, pacing yourself, and taking cool showers during hot weather. If you have to venture outside, you should avoid going out in the sun during the hottest times of the day.

Allie Hogan

When Does a Crush Turn Into Love?

 Many are confused between love and crush. Some believe they are in love because of the butterflies in their stomach whenever they see the one they like. However, after a few months, they find out that the feeling is gone, especially after being with the person regularly. Therefore, they conclude that it was only a mere crush all along.

When Does a Crush Turn Into Love?

However, is it possible for a crush to turn into love? If yes, how can it happen?

Typically, love starts with attraction, and crushing on someone is basically being attracted to a person. Therefore, having a crush on somebody can be your first step in finding out if you can love the person.

Here are some of the ways through which your crush for a person can evolve into love:

1.You get to know the person better.

You cannot say you love a person unless you know them too well and still accept them for who they are. Many people outgrow their feelings after getting to know their crushes better. They discover some traits that they find unattractive. Or they soon realize that there is no spark between them.However, upon spending more time with a person and seeing more of their interesting personality, one can either like that individual more or get turned off. If you still find your crush attractive even after seeing more of their character, there is a chance your feeling can turn into real love.

2.Your friendship grows over time.

Friendship grows between two people with constant communication and time. They begin to depend on each other for various things. Also, they get to know each person more and learn to put up with each other’s flaws. Therefore, friendship is a great avenue for growing love.If you find your crush as a good friend, there is a big possibility that you can see the person as a potentially good partner too. Unless you discover something that makes you realize you are better off as friends, your feelings can grow together with time.

3.You find out that you have compatible traits.

Compatibility between partners is necessary to make a relationship work. Their strengths and weaknesses should complement each other’s. Moreover, their personalities must not clash, or the relationship would be chaotic because of fights. Irreconcilable differences are among the top reasons why a couple breaks apart.Once you realize that you and your crush have compatible personalities and attitudes, your brain will tell you to keep liking that person. Eventually, your attraction to your crush can grow into love, especially if you are always together.

4.You realize that the person is also fond of you.

Crushing on someone can give a person that addicting giddiness, but discovering that the feeling is mutual is ecstatic. It reinforces the attraction that one has for their crush. Soon, they may find themselves embarking on an exciting love story.Once you find out that your crush also likes you, expect that you will be drawn closer to that person. It becomes more special when you start exchanging ‘friendly’ messages and stolen glances. Unless something ends your connection, you may find dating each other soon.

5.You see that your crush can help you grow as a person.

Another reason a person will keep liking their crush is the positive effect from the attraction or friendship. Most people consider their crushes as their inspiration. The more their crushes motivate them to be better versions of themselves, the more the feeling will linger.If your crush has been helping you grow and become a better person for a long time now, you cannot help but be thankful to the person. That sense of gratitude will attach you more to your crush. As you continue to see how that individual keeps you heading in the right direction, your feelings may eventually get more serious.

6.You feel special and cared for when you are together. 

Is your crush a caring person? Everyone admires kind people who take care of those around them. Having a crush like this makes it harder for someone to let go of their attraction. Every time their crush treats them kindly, they become hopeful that the feeling between them can be mutual.If your crush is caring and sweet towards you, your feeling for that person will keep on growing. How you are treated will make you feel special unless you realize that the individual treats everyone the same.

7.You develop mutual trust. 

One of the dreams of everyone who has a crush is to be the confidante of the person they like. They long to be that someone their crush trusts so much that they share their innermost thoughts and secrets with them.Have you and your crush been talking about personal issues? Do you share your secrets? If this is the level of your relationship, then you have reached a level of mutual trust. Deep inside, you know that your feeling for your crush has gone to a more intimate level as well.

8.You become closely attached. 

Aside from mutual trust, constant bonding and other activities can help a person become closer to their crush. The attachment can make it harder for feelings to go away. Just like how close friends will feel lonely and miss each other when separated, a person will find it hard to stay away from their crush too.Once you get close to your crush, you will be attached to that person. Being close means you have known that person better, and you can accept them for what they are. The attachment will make you care and long for that individual more than ever before.

9.You feel comfortable and happy around the person. 

It is easy to love a person who makes you happy, right? For this reason, most people grow naturally in love with someone who can make them feel happy, especially if they can be comfortable around that individual.How can you not love your crush if you can be yourself and be genuinely happy whenever that person is around? It is not surprising if you already feel more than attraction for that individual by now.

10. You can see yourself growing old with that individual.

It is easy to admire and have a crush on someone. In fact, most people have multiple crushes at the same time. However, not all of these are serious, and some may not even fit their ideal partners.If you can imagine yourself building a family and growing old with your crush, then you may be ready to grow in love with that person.

Just Wait and See

Love is not something you rush. It is something that you allow to bloom in its own time. Therefore, enjoy this season when you have this crush who can make you smile and shriek in delight. If that person is the right one, time will make it happen.Even if you and your crush share a special understanding, it does not guarantee a happy-ever-after love story. For this reason, you should not rush love. Instead, let your friendship and trust for each other grow. Also, make sure to get to know each other well before committing to a relationship.

Cyril Abello

Appetite and Weight Loss

 We Americans could sure stand to lose some weight. An alarming number of Americans are overweight or obese: over 70% of adults are one of those two things. That’s terrible news, because being overweight is unhealthy: it taxes everything from your heart to your bones while making you more susceptible to illness and other health problems. It would a whole lot better if those of us who are carrying a few extra pounds around were to shed them for good.

And we seem to know this, too: Americans love to diet, and the weight-loss industry makes huge amounts of money (over $60 billion a year, believe it or not). Yet the problem isn’t going away. Why?

The problem, experts say, is pretty simple: being hungry all the time is no way to diet.

Why Diets Fail

There are countless diets out there. They range from the sensible to the silly, and some have gimmicks: eat less of this or eat only that. Blend the things you eat, cut out carbohydrates, cut out gluten, cut out meat, etc., etc., etc.

But for all of this bizarre diversity in diets, they almost all have one thing in common: they require us to control our hunger.

That’s because, underneath it all, many of these diets are just calorie-deprivation diets. More goes into making us fat than calories, but “calories in, calories out” remains at least an approximation of how it all works. When we consume more fuel than we use, we gain weight–so these diets cut our fuel. Sure, it might be healthier to eat more grains or less meat or fewer carbohydrates (we’ll explain why in a bit), but many of these diets actually work by just finding reasons to ban the calorie-dense stuff that’s making us fat.

Or, at least, that’s how they would work if calorie-deprivation diets worked at all. Experts say they don’t, because that kind of deprivation can make us hungry, and big shifts in diet are hard to stick to. Even if we succeed at dropping our weight through such diets, we backslide after the diet: since such diets are temporary, we go right back to our old bad habits when the diet is over, and we gain the weight back fast.

The Right Way to Diet: Don’t Be Hungry All the Time!

The right way to diet is to make changes that are more sustainable–lifestyle changes. A truly effective “diet” isn’t a diet at all–instead, it comprises eating habits that we’ll stick to for the rest of our lives. That’s the way to avoid backsliding into bad habits. And if you’re going to stick to a diet for the rest of your life, guess what: it shouldn’t require you to feel hungry all the time. A simple change such as switching from being a regular at a fast food restaurant, to frequenting a healthy seafood restaurant instead can help you make consistently healthier choices.

But how can you eat “less” without getting hungry? Actually, there are some key strategies that make it easy.

The most obvious and important thing to consider here is what you eat. Eating foods that are less calorie-dense makes it easier to feel full without overindulging in calories, fats, and other stuff that you only want in moderation. Vegetables are key here: most of us don’t eat nearly enough of them, and that’s a big part of why we’re consuming too much energy in the process of filling our bellies.

How you eat matters, too. Eating more slowly gives the body a chance to tell you when you’re full. It takes longer than you might think for your stomach to let your brain know that it’s time to stop chowing down: about 20 minutes in all. If you eat too fast, you could end up eating more than you actually want to eat (or should want to eat) without knowing it.

Losing weight at a reasonable speed might mean combining healthy long-term eating habits with increased moderation, and that’s okay–though it will require a bit more willpower on your part. To feel less hungry, consider getting a bit more protein, which is very filling. You can also use safe supplements to suppress appetite, like Lipodrene.

As you near your goals, you should begin to fall into a healthy eating rhythm that allows you to eat normal portions and feel full. With proper use of the strategies above, you should feel happy and full–and ready to maintain these habits for a long, healthy lifetime!

Johnny E

6 Last-Minute Things to Do Before Having Guests Over, Experts Say

 They'll remember these thoughtful details long after they're gone.

Inviting guests over—either for a party or for a stay in your spare bedroom—is an exciting experience. You get to welcome them into your home, decorate to your heart's content, and offer all your favorite foods, drinks, and desserts. However, playing host can also be somewhat stressful. Obviously, you want all of your invitees to feel comfortable and relaxed—and accomplishing can sometimes feel daunting. That is, until now. Here party planners, interior designers, and cleaning experts tell us the last-minute things they always do before guests arrive. Follow their lead and your next gathering will go off without a hitch.

1.Freshen up the powder room.

The powder room or guest bathroom is a place all of your guests will likely visit at least once. Because of that, you'll want it in tip-top shape. In addition to scrubbing it from top to bottom, you should ensure it's ready for heavy foot traffic. "Our tip is to have extra linen hand towels ready to swap out throughout your event," says Elizabeth Copeland, founder of Houston-based event planning company Swift + Company. "Hostesses sometimes forget to refresh this simple amenity and are left with a soaked hand towel at the end of the night." A swap or two during the party could make all the difference. This tip also applies to leaving extra toilet paper in a place where guests will easily be able to spot it.If your guests are staying overnight, you can make a toiletry station to welcome them. "I stock this with things like bobby pins, hair ties, dry shampoo, face mist, essential oils, body spray, and anything else that gives someone that hotel amenities feel," says Hannah Michelle Lambert, interior designer and blogger at Homey Homies. Those little touches are the things visitors will remember most.

2.Set the A.C. to 67 degrees.

There's nothing worse than being at an event that feels stiflingly hot. Help your guests avoid that by setting the A.C. to about 67 degrees an hour or two before the party, suggests Copeland. "More bodies in a home make it warmer," she explains. "Dropping the temperature will make sure your home stays at a pleasant temperature throughout your soirée." Yes, this might even mean turning on your A.C. in the winter if needed.

3.Make it smell amazing.

You can do this in a variety of ways. If you're feeling crafty, Copeland recommends a simmer pot. Simply put your ingredients in a pot of water on low heat and your space will be filled with a cozy aroma. In the warmer months, she likes to use lime, ginger, mint, and cucumber. In the colder months, try apple cider with cinnamon sticks, almond extract, fresh ginger cloves, and orange rinds, or pine branches, juniper berries, and lemon peel.If simmer pots aren't your thing, a candle works just as well. Copeland likes NEST New York's Bamboo candle for warmer months and Jo Malone's Orange Blossom for cooler months. "We like to blow the candle out about 10 minutes before guests arrive to leave the smell lingering for an effortless scent," she says.

4.Do a final sweep.

If you're having a big party, you've probably spent days sprucing up your space. But just before guests arrive, focus on the big picture. "Go through each room that your guests will visit and stare for a few seconds," says Steve Evans, owner of Memphis Maids, a house cleaning service in Tennessee. "Try to concentrate only on what you are seeing and what stands out visually as out of place, and not what you 'know' is dirty or unorganized but that no one else will see or pay attention to." Take these last few minutes to fix those spaces.In addition to those problem spots, Evans suggest focusing on large, flat surfaces, such as floors, countertops, tables, and desktops. "For floors, vacuuming and/or mopping with a steam mop would be really helpful because the tool is doing the cleaning while you just need to go through the entire floor a few times," he says. "If you're on a very tight time schedule—regardless if you have guests coming soon or not—this is really helpful." The room will look refreshed in no time.

5.Prepare a platter.

Whenever inviting anyone to your home, you'll want to offer them something to eat. "Many times, I have guests over for coffee or cocktails, so I'm a big fan of serving small finger foods like tea sandwiches or cakes, or small, bite-sized foods that you can easily load up on a plate and go back for more," says Jen Stark, the founder of Happy DIY Home. Fortunately, compiling these foods doesn't have to be complicated. If you want, you can whip up some hors d'oeuvres in the oven. Or, simply place a few store-bought cheeses, crackers, veggies, and desserts on a platter.

6.Offer fancy water.

The easiest way to make a strong impression is with fancy water. "Lemon, basil, and (or) cucumber water is a perfect way to make guests feel welcomed and not have to ask for water, which is something that I find myself doing all the time while visiting people's homes," says Devin Shaffer, lead interior designer at Decorilla Online Interior Design. "Investing in a stylish carafe will make all the difference and will double as a decor element, visually zestful, seasonal, and fresh." Guests will be ready to settle in and relax at your gathering as soon as they take a sip.

Juliana LaBianca

15 Creative Third Date Ideas to Level Up Your Budding Relationship

 Third dates are fun, exciting and full of intrigue. You and your date are just getting to know each other and are building a rapport, and it’s the perfect opportunity for both of you to do something out of the ordinary. So rather than the same old dinner and a movie date routine, these 15 third date ideas will not only help you discover if you two really click, but will also encourage you to have fun in the process.

1.Take a Cooking Class Together

If you’re looking for an interactive third date idea, heading for the kitchen can be a great way to mix things up. You and your date can sign up for a local cooking class (try your local Sur La Table or Williams-Sonoma) and learn a new recipe while you learn more about each other. If you're both kitchen novices, consider signing up for a knife skills class—you'll learn how to properly hold a knife, as well as practice classic knife cuts, which might include the julienne, rough chop, and mince.

2.Sing Karaoke

Another third date idea is to head to a karaoke bar and sing your heart out to the person who may one day capture your heart. And whether you can carry a tune or not, you and your date will be able to see just how well you harmonize as a couple. You can even request to sing a duet together! According to a 2018 Time Out article, some of the best karaoke jams of our time include "I Want It That Way" by the Backstreet Boys, Whitney Houston's "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," and "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen.

3.Go to a Museum

If you’re looking for a date idea with an educational twist, visiting a museum is a great option. With so many different types of museums to choose from (contemporary art, natural history, air and space museums, for example), you and your partner will not only discover fun facts as you walk through the exhibits, but learn more about each other as well. Plus, most museums feature a gift shop and a cafe so you can browse for unique souvenirs and enjoy a coffee and pastry, all in one place.

4.Volunteer

For those who are looking for a third date idea that can make a positive and lasting impact in every respect, then volunteering is the way to go. And whether you sign up to help organize a run/walk in your area (such as those by Girls on the Run, a non-profit dedicated to empowering young girls through the joy of running), head to a local Humane Society animal shelter, or spend the morning serving or delivering food with a non-profit organization like Meals on Wheels, there are many different and worthy causes in your area where you can do some good as you get to know each other.

5.Go to a Sporting Event

If you’re looking for a third date idea that will knock it out of the park, heading to a sporting event in your area is a great call. Not only will you get to learn more about your date's competitive spirit as you cheer on your team, but the high-energy environment can help you to see an upbeat side of each other as well. Plus, sports arenas have upped their concessions offerings in recent years, and while you may be paying more than you would elsewhere, you're likely to find local craft beers on tap, as well as local and regional food specialties.

6.Head to a Wine Tasting

If you’re looking for a third date idea that will leave you both in high spirits, then going to a wine tasting is a terrific option. And whether you prefer Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon or are more of a Merlot fan, going to a wine tasting is an opportunity to learn about the hard work involved to get that wine into your glass—and if you're out at a vineyard, a chance to spend a low-key afternoon outside. Maybe you'll even learn what wine to order on lucky date number four!

7.Visit a Theme Park

For adrenaline-seekers, another thrilling third date idea is to head to a theme park in your area. Enjoy the different rides together, and the benefit of always having someone to chat with in line. In between rides, attempt to win each other stuffed animals, hats, and different prizes at the various booths. Consider Six Flags across California, Georgia, Illinois and more for rollercoasters; Hershey Park in Pennsylvania for chocolate-lovers; and Schlitterbahn in Texas for waterpark fun.

8.Plan a Picnic

Another creative third date idea is to plan a picnic together in the park. And whether you plan a potluck or pick up food from a restaurant on your way to the park, this date idea is packed with fun as you and your partner get to enjoy a meal together in an unusual way.

9.Take an Exercise Class

If you’re looking for a third date that’ll get your heart pumping in every respect, then signing up for an exercise class together is the right move for you. And whether you hit up a spinning, yoga, or Pilates session, burning calories with one another can help you figure out if there’s any heat between the two of you.

10.Go to a Comedy Club

For those who are looking for a third date idea that’s guaranteed to put a smile on both of your faces, going to a comedy club is no joke. Not only will you and your date spend time laughing together, but this kind of event creates the perfect opportunity to develop your own inside jokes in the future that only the two of you will understand and appreciate. Are you ready to laugh?

11.Visit a Climbing Wall

Take turns belaying each other at one of the many indoor rock climbing gyms popping up across the country, or go free form with a bouldering route appropriate for your experience levels. Both activities will test your coordination and strength, as well as your communication skills, as you help guide each other up and down the wall.

12.Find a Bowling Alley

A bowling date is nostalgic, interactive, and a great vehicle for friendly competition. Have fun lacing up those hideous rental shoes, and take turns attempting to bowl a strike or two.

13.Head Outside

Go for a hike or nature walk, even if it's just around the neighborhood for a few rounds. The point is to get outside, observe the environment around you, and spend some quality time together. You could pick a neighborhood you two typically just drive through; by walking, you'll experience a part of the city from a new perspective.

14.Go Out for Ice Cream

There's nothing wrong with a dinner date, but an ice cream date can be more casual and fun, and doesn't come with as much pressure as dinners do. Guess each other's favorite flavor and sample the entire menu if you're game.

15.Rent Some Bikes

Again, get up and moving away from the traditional dinner date. An interactive activity like a bike ride is an opportunity to see your date from a different angle and inspires a broader range of conversation topics. Since you'll be out and about, as well as maneuvering your bike, you'll minimize awkward silences. As an alternative, take your city's electric scooters for a spin. Scooter companies like Bird, Lime, and Spin are available in most major cities and operate with the use of their namesake app; just remember to ride responsibly.

Stacey Laura Lloyd

Too Much Sun Isn't Just Bad for Your Skin, Study Warns

 New research suggests direct heat to your head could impair your cognitive performance.

Now that summer's here, many of us are excited to get out and enjoy the warm sun and outdoors again—especially after a few months spent cooped up inside. There are plenty of benefits of direct sunlight: Vitamin D serves many important functions, and has been shown to reduce your risk of dying from coronavirus. And sunlight can also naturally boost your mood if you've been suffering from anxiety and depression. But we all know the expression "too much of a good thing." And while the risks of overexposure to the sun are well documented, a new study shows there's another danger that may surprise you: Too much sun can actually warm your brain and impair your cognitive performance.

The study, published in Scientific Reports in May, looked at the effects of direct sunlight on human brain temperature and function. Researchers found that prolonged exposure warmed the brain enough to diminish cognitive functions, including motor skills. That could make too much sun a serious safety hazard not just for your skin—but also for the rest of you.

The authors of the study noted that those who work outside in the hot sun might experience decreased productivity, in addition to the potential dangers of operating heavy machinery and completing other tasks with lowered cognitive function and motor skills. "The ability to maintain concentration and avoid attenuation of motor-cognitive performance is certainly of relevance for work and traffic safety as well as for minimizing the risks of making mistakes during other daily tasks," study co-author Andreas Flouris, associate professor from FAME Laboratory in Greece, said in a statement.

While the study's authors mostly discussed the impact of these findings on those who work outdoors, anyone who plans to spend time in extreme heat this summer should keep in mind the effect it could have on their brain. It's worth noting that the decline in cognitive and motor performance happened with exposure to a temperature of 38.5 degrees Celsius—around 101 degrees Fahrenheit—which is significantly hotter than the average summer day. But with heat waves and rising temperatures worldwide, this study could be more relevant than ever.

"Health and performance impairments provoked by thermal stress are societal challenges intensifying with global warming and that is a prolonged problem we must try to mitigate," Flouris said.

In the meantime, pay attention to the temperature outside, and avoid too much exposure to the sun on those extra hot days—sound medical advice for a number of reasons. If you do have to be outside for long periods of time in excessive heat, make sure you're protecting your head. Your brain will thank you. 

Richard Evans

10 Obvious Signs Your Friend Likes You Romantically

 Are you suspecting your friend is crushing on you? You probably feel like s/he treats you more than a normal friend. You might be afraid to confirm this because it could ruin your friendship. However,  of course, you want to find out the truth, so you will know how to treat him/her to avoid hurting his/her feelings.If you want to confirm if your friend likes you, here are some signs that you can consider.

How to know if your friend likes you

1. Always sends you text messages from morning to night

If your friend greets you ‘good morning’, ‘happy lunchtime’, ‘good night’ thru text daily, and s/he tries to keep the conversation up whenever you reply, then it can be a sign. Your friend remembers you all the time, and s/he wants to stay connected to you even when you are away from each other. However, it would be best if you try to do a background check before assuming. If s/he does this to your common friends too, then it is just a normal thing.

2. Always available for you

You know your friend likes you if s/he is never busy whenever you ask for time. S/he can sacrifice whatever s/he is doing just to be with you. It is normal for friends to be helping each other, but when it comes to priorities, family, work, and studies usually go first.Now, if your friend can set aside their time for family, work, or studies to be by your side, then it is a different story. You have to start asking why.

3. Makes an effort to look great whenever you will meet

Another sign is you notice that your friend is always on his/her best foot during planned meetups, but does not seem to care about his/her looks whenever you just accidentally meet. Maybe s/he really prepares to look good every time you will meet because s/he wants to catch your eye.Of course, it is normal for us, humans, to desire attention especially from those we are attracted to. That is why we wear our best outfit, get a new hairstyle, and bathe in perfume whenever there is a chance to meet our crush.

4. Becomes loud and funny when you are around

Have you noticed your friend is unusually funny and noisy whenever you arrive? ‘Unusually’ means you know him/her to be a normally quiet person, but lately s/he gets hyper every time you are around. It is probably because s/he wants your attention.Joking around and being loud are among the easiest ways to get others’ attention. It is also one way of saying, “Look at me! I am fun to be with.”

5. Laughs at your corniest joke–even if others do not

Another obvious sign is when s/he always laughs at your jokes, even those which are lousy. S/he seems to be the only one to appreciate your dry humor. You get confused whether s/he laughs so you will not be embarrassed or s/he is just sympathetic.Admit it, you would also do the same in case your crush throws a corny joke. It would be your chance of showing him/her that you are his/her number 1 fan.

6. Does not get bored listening to you

You know a person likes you when s/he is interested in your life story and anything else you want to say. S/he loves listening to you—you feel that because s/he keeps on asking follow-up questions even for the trivial things you tell him/her.Also, even if you tell your friend the same story, again and again, s/he would still listen. Do not be surprised if s/he remembers every detail of your stories because s/he really pays attention.

7. Interested in your love life

If this friend of yours always asks for updates regarding your relationship status or how your crush is, then it is probably because s/he wants to find out if s/he could ever have the chance to be with you.Nothing could be worse than knowing your crush’s heart belongs to someone else already. So, if you happen to be friends, then you could use your friendship to find out if you should keep the feelings on or just move on.

8. Compliments you even for small things

There is nothing wrong if someone compliments you because that is healthy. However, if you notice that there is this person who notices and praises every detail of you, even those which are almost invisible to naked eyes, then it could be something else. It probably means that s/he admires you a lot that s/he appreciates everything about you.Moreover, your friend’s appreciation habit can be his/her strategy to completely win your heart. People become grateful and attached to those who always appreciate them. It is because they feel valued.

9. Likes it better when you are alone together

If you notice your friend seems to enjoy your company better when no one else is around, then it is a sign that s/he is crushing on you. S/he likes having your entire attention, so you can have an undisturbed quality time together.What are the usual indications that this is what your friend wants? For instance, s/he would be planning a get-together, which you thought includes the whole gang. Then, s/he tells you the others are not available, but you need to pursue the plan.

10. Avoids you in public

Your friend could be too open with you whenever you are texting or chatting on Messenger. However, you notice that s/he is less social with you whenever you go out together or you are in public. Isn’t this suspicious?

Cyril Abello

10 Sweet Things Girls Do When They Like You

 The world of love can be quite confusing and frustrating. If only we could walk up to someone we like and outright tell them that we like them and they will respond that they like us back, then there will only be happily ever afters in this world. But life doesn’t work that way, not everyone gets to have their happy endings, and not everyone will get to know who likes them or not.But it doesn’t have to be that way for you. There are ways to know if somebody has a crush on you, likes you, or is even madly in love with you! You just have to look out for the signs, and unfortunately, humans weren’t born with boards pinned to their chests stating their very feelings.

Things Girls Do When They Like You

It’s especially harder for boys to know when a girl likes them because their minds were never intentionally wired for picking up these hints. But if you’re lucky enough to be reading this article, here’s how to tell if a girl likes you:

1. She makes time for you.

Of course, she does! She obviously likes you if she makes time for you and when we say make time, we don’t mean you get to see each other during classes or common and general meetings. She makes time by actually clearing out her supposed busy schedule just to see you, talk to you, or hang out with you.

2. She wants to hang out with you all the time.

As long as you’re there, she will also be there. If you find yourself often hanging around at parties with her presence there, even though she declined to come in the first place, then it’s likely that there’s a teeny tiny chance that she likes you. Why else should she give you a special time and attention?

3. She responds quickly.

If you send her a text message, your phone lights up within ten seconds, if you call her on her phone, she picks up within the first few rings, and when you ask her if she wants to hang out with you and your friends, there’s never a hesitant “no” to her answers! In short, she responds quickly to all invitations, especially if it’s coming from you. And why wouldn’t she if she clearly, really, really likes you?

4. She develops the opposite personality.

On the other hand, if she suddenly distances herself for an unknown reason, if she doesn’t text you anymore, doesn’t hang out with you, or avoids you at all costs, then something is surely up. It can either be two things: first, you have probably done something to upset her and she refuses to talk about it, or two, she has started liking you and she can’t handle the very sight of you. It’s always best to confront girls about these things, who knows, she might end up confessing her feelings after all!

5. She takes note of the little things.

When a girl likes a guy, she will take note of all the little things he says and every detail she can take from his life story. Don’t be surprised when suddenly shares a fun fact video about a movie you really like or invite you to a band you casually mentioned to her last week. She will take every opportunity to learn about you from you and she will do her best to make a good impression if she really likes you.

6. She can’t keep eye contact.

For most people, it’s almost impossible to keep eye contact with someone they really like. Maybe they’re afraid that if they look, they’ll fall even deeper in love or maybe the gaze from their crush’s eyes is too intense and they’re scared of feeling vulnerable. If she shies away from looking at you when you talk to her, then there’s a huge chance that she’s crushing on you too.

7. She blushes around you.

One of the most obvious physical signs of attraction is the blush. Those faint hints of pink creeping up to her cheeks when she looks and talks to you is a tell-tale sign of likeness. Take note that the more she does this around your presence, the more confirmed it is that that girl is clearly smitten by the likes of you!

8. She makes slight physical contact.

Not so many girls are daring to do this, but there are still some that do. Slight physical contact is casually leaning on you when you’re hanging out with a bunch of friends, her hand lingering longer than intended when you pass her the notebook from last class, or even just the harmless pat on the back means so much more now. There’s no easy way to identify this, but you have to trust your gut that you will always know.

9. She takes the time to get to know you.

Your favorite movie, your goals, your first time losing a tooth, your least favorite food, or whatever it is, she wants to know what it is. She might ask prying questions or she will casually mask these intentions with other questions, the point is, she wants to get to know you better. When you like a person, wouldn’t you take the opportunity to get to know every inch of their life?

10. She doesn’t like talking about crushes around you.

The final and most obvious sign is that she doesn’t like talking about love, crushes, or relationships with you, and why is that? She doesn’t want to expose herself of course! She might be feeling vulnerable if you talk about these things and she would never ever want to risk herself with you knowing – at least not yet when she’s not ready.

Carisha Yabora

Never Go in a Lake If You See This One Thing, Local Officials Warn

 If your local swimming spot looks like this, you're better off avoiding it to stay safe.

Summer is nearly here, meaning the return of long hours of daylight, warm weather, and the occasional trip to your favorite swimming hole. However, before you suit up and head into the water, local officials want you to heed this one warning to protect yourself. Read on to discover the surprising sign you shouldn't swim in your local lake this summer.

Officials want people to avoid bodies of water with certain types of algae.

While algae is prevalent in many lakes and rivers, officials are warning against swimming in rivers that have algal blooms this summer.In May, the Brazos River Authority in Texas issued a warning to locals about potentially dangerous algae in Lake Granbury in northern Texas, CBS DFW first reported. According to Brazos River Authority officials, there is a current algal bloom in the lake which could prove harmful to those who swim in it, as it may contain cyanobacteria, which is toxic to both animals and humans.

It's impossible to tell if an algal bloom is harmful by sight alone.

According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, it's not possible to determine whether or not an algal bloom is toxic "blue-green algae" by appearance alone. In any case, "blue-green algae" is actually a misnomer, as what appears to be algae is actually a type of cyanobacteria.While the Brazos River Authority notes that there are over 2,600 types of blue-green algae, the vast majority of which are not toxic, a few varieties can make animals and humans extremely sick.Though you may not be able to tell what type of blue-green algae you're seeing just by looking at it, if you see a large number of dead fish near a lake, it may be a sign that the algal bloom is toxic, the Brazos River Authority explains. "Experts advise that if you see water with a 'pea-soup' color and consistency, avoid it," says the authority.

Exposure to cyanobacteria can have serious health effects.

Animals—dogs in particular—are more susceptible to the effects of cyanobacterial harmful algae blooms (cHABs) than humans, due largely to their willingness to swim in water that is visibly affected by algal blooms or has an odor that would be off-putting to humans, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).However, humans can—and frequently do—become sick due to contact with cHABs, as well. Ingestion, inhalation, skin contact, and eye exposure are all potential means of being exposed to cHABs and can cause side effects including nausea, vomiting, joint pain, muscle weakness, blisters in the mouth, swollen lips, conjunctivitis, pneumonia, and liver failure.

There is no antidote to cyanobacteria.

Unfortunately, there are "no remedies to counteract the effects" of cHABs at the moment, according to the CDC.However, if you do come into contact with algal blooms that may contain cyanobacteria, there are a few ways you can potentially mitigate their ill effects on your health. In addition to avoiding contact with any water source that appears to have an algal bloom in it, the CDC recommends rinsing off with fresh water immediately if you think you may have come into contact with water containing cyanobacteria and calling a doctor or Poison Control if you believe you've swallowed water that could be contaminated with cHABs.

Sarah Crow

The Major Negative Effect of Drinking Ice Water You Didn't Know, Study Says

 This summer staple could leave you feeling worse for wear, experts say.

When the weather is hot, there are few things more refreshing than quenching your thirst with a glass of ice cold water. Of course, it's not just your palate that benefits from keeping a glass of water at hand on hot days—it can also help stave off dehydration and may help reduce symptoms of heat exhaustion if you've been in hot weather for a prolonged period of time, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).However, research suggests that that icy beverage could have some serious drawbacks when it comes to your health, too. Before you take another sip, read on to find out the surprising negative effect of drinking ice water, according to science.

Drinking ice water may increase your risk of headaches.

If you find yourself plagued by regular headaches, you may want to opt for room temperature water instead of ice-cold water this summer. According to a 2001 study published in the journal Cephalalgia, among a group of 669 women studied, 51 reported developing a headache after drinking approximately 5 oz. of ice water through a straw. The study's authors explained that it was the cold stimulus to the study subjects' palate that was likely to have caused this effect.A 2019 review of research published in Current Neurology and Neuroscience Reports found that ice water actually has a more pronounced effect on pain stimulus than ice itself. "Ice water appears to provoke more frequent and higher pain intensity with a shorter latency" compared to cold stimulus pain related to ice cubes, the authors wrote.

People who experience migraines are more likely to experience this effect.

While headaches can happen to anyone, migraine sufferers may be more likely to suffer the ill effects of drinking ice water than those unafflicted by the condition.According to the Cephalalgia study, women who had suffered from at least one migraine attack in the 12 months prior to the study period were twice as likely to develop a headache after consuming the ice water.

Drinking through a straw may worsen the effects of ice water.

If you want to avoid developing regular headaches, but just can't imagine drinking water without ice in it, giving up the straw in your glass may be a good first step toward being pain-free. In a 2012 study published in the FASEB Journal, as a means of determining the exact mechanism by which ice cream headaches develop, study subjects were specifically directed to drink ice water with a straw against their palate.According to the study's authors, cold stimuli applied to the palate can cause a sudden increase in blood flow to the brain's anterior cerebral artery, causing brain freeze, which study author Jorge Serrador, Ph.D., an associate professor in the Department of Pharmacology, Physiology & Neuroscience at Rutgers University, posited might be similar to what occurs when people experience migraines. However, by limiting direct contact between cold stimuli and the soft palate, both brain freeze and longer lasting headaches may be avoided.

Increasing your overall water consumption may reduce headache prevalence.

While pounding ice water may make your headaches worse, that doesn't mean you should skimp on the clear stuff to avoid headache pain this summer—just maybe drink it at a slightly warmer temperature.According to a 2005 control trial published in the European Journal of Neurology, among a group of eighteen migraine sufferers, those who increased their water intake by 1.5 liters per day decreased the time they spent experiencing headaches by 21 hours over a two-week period and reported lower headache intensity.

Sarah Crow

42 Questions to Ask on a Second Date

 Because no one really cares about the weather.

Have you experienced this dating conundrum before? Scenario: This second date is going wonderfully, you think as you sip a glass of Syrah. Your stomach is filled with butterflies. You inwardly swoon as you notice that your legs are touching. As your date finishes their story about backpacking through Thailand, suddenly things take a turn from engaging to an awkward, uncomfortable silence. In this moment (that you think stretches on forever), you find that you don't know what to say next.Unexpected, lingering silences can quickly go from inconvenient to embarrassing and have the potential to ruin a great date, so it's best to be prepared. If you're worried about these sudden lulls on a date, we've compiled a list of conversation-starting questions you can keep in your proverbial back pocket. Turn to these ice breakers as inspiration to keep the conversation going. One rule of thumb: Questions should be light, fun, and evoke interesting answers.

That said, scroll down for 42 questions to ask on a date.

  1.What's your favorite color, and why?

  2.What sport did you play in high school?

  3.If you could learn anything, what would you choose, and why?

  4.What were the holidays like in your house growing up?

  5.If you were an animal, what would you be?

  6.Where do you like to shop for clothes?

  7.What television shows are you into right now?

  8.What kind of cake do you eat on your birthday?

  9.Which sports teams do you follow?

 10.What was your most memorable vacation?

 11.Who in your family are you closest to?

 12.What was your most epic Halloween costume?

 13.Do you like to cook?

 14.What's your go-to recipe for a busy weeknight?

 15.Where have you always wanted to travel?

 16.If you had to drink only one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

 17.Do you like to swim in the ocean?

 18.Do you collect anything?

 19.What book is currently on your nightstand?

 20.Have you seen any good movies lately?

 21.What does your ideal celebratory feast look like?

 22.Which movie or TV show character do you most identify with?

 23.Where is your happy place?

 24.What does your perfect Saturday consist of?

 25.Do you prefer coffee or tea?

 26.What is something you're bad at?

 27.What are you dying to try?

 28.What is your hidden talent?

 29.What is your favorite childhood memory?

 30.When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?

 31.What Spotify station are you currently rocking?

 32.Are you a cat person or a dog person?

 33.What's your morning coffee order?

 34.How do you typically celebrate your birthday?

 35.What are your pet peeves?

 36.Do you have any irrational fears?

 37.What's your favorite dessert?

 38.What's the worst date you've ever been on?

 39.What destination intimidates you, yet interests you enough to want to visit?

 40.If you could grab drinks or dine with anyone in the world (dead or alive), who would it be?

 41.Do you have any quirky habits?

 42.Which book has changed your life?

By Editors

If You See This in the Ocean, Don't Go In, Shark Experts Warn

 These seemingly innocuous creatures could be an indication that sharks are lurking nearby.

Now that most COVID restrictions have been lifted in the U.S. and temperatures are rising to, in some cases, record-breaking heights, more and more people are looking to enjoy some time at the beach. But even if you're no longer concerned about the coronavirus the next time you head to the beach, that doesn't mean you should throw all caution to the wind. The ocean can still pose some seasonal risks, and experts warn that seeing a few subtle red flags in particular in the water means you should not go in at all, because sharks could be nearby. Read on to find out what to keep your eye out for during your next beach trip.

If you see birds diving or fish jumping, don't go in the ocean.

Chuck Bangley, PhD, a marine biologist and researcher at Dalhousie University, told Eyewitness News 11 in North Carolina that the main thing you should look for before going in the ocean is any animals that sharks like to feast on. "Some of the best advice that I can give is just be aware of your surroundings," Bangley said. "Sharks are generally really good at what they do. They're capable of identifying things that are and are not on the menu."The good news is, you're likely not on the menu. According to the University of Florida's International Shark Attack Files (ISAF), in 2020, there were 57 instances of unprovoked shark bites on humans and 39 provoked bites worldwide, proving getting bitten by a shark is a rare event.But if you're scared of what could be lurking in the ocean, Bangley says to keep an eye on birds and fish. "If you see birds diving or fish jumping, that could be an indicator that a larger predator, perhaps a shark, could be attempting to prey upon a school of fish," Eyewitness News says. In short, the best way to avoid a bite from a shark is to "stay out of the food chain," as Forbes explains.Bangley also says to avoid swimming or surfing near fishing areas and piers, as the smell of bait or a struggling fish can attract sharks.

And if you see seals in the ocean, you also shouldn't go in.

A group of seals in the ocean may look harmless and even cute, but the reality is far from it. Not only can seals themselves be dangerous, but they're another one of sharks' favorite snacks. Greg Skomal, a Marine Fisheries biologist and shark researcher, told the Boston Herald that sharks hunt seals in shallow parts of the ocean as long as there is at least five to six feet of water.And sharks can mistake humans for seals—especially if you're already near a group of them. "If you're foolish enough to go swimming among a group of seals frolicking in the shallows, then you're putting yourself at risk. There's no question about that," Bob Hueter, chief scientist at OCEARCH, an organization that collects and tracks shark data, told Forbes.

Experts say great white shark sightings have increased recently in the U.S.

According to experts, shark sightings, especially great whites, are on the rise in the U.S. right now. "This is summertime, and this is when people get bitten," Hueter warned. "The first thing to remember is that the ocean is a wild place."Though they're hitting both the east and west coasts lately, great white sharks are more prevalent in some areas than others. A 1,400 pound great white shark was tracked along the Jersey Shore recently, and a California surfer had to be hospitalized after being bitten by a great white shark off the San Francisco Bay Area coast. OCEARCH is currently tracking 70 sharks in real-time, and the organization reports that, in addition to those states, several great white sharks have been tagged off the coasts of South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, New York, Massachusetts, and Maine.

Up to half of all shark attacks can be attributed to great white sharks.

According to National Geographic, great white sharks usually cause a third to half of all shark attacks reported worldwide every year. The University of Florida's ISAF found that great white sharks were involved in at least 16 unprovoked shark bites in 2020, including six of the year's 10 fatalities. In the U.S., one swimmer was killed by a great white shark in California and another was killed by the species in Maine last year."I think the frequency of white sharks swimming in the same places as humans may be on the rise, but if so, we don't yet know the cause," Gavin Naylor, director of the Florida Museum of Natural History's shark research program, said in a statement.But ultimately, Hueter says that there are bigger concerns for beachgoers. "Recognize that you face much greater risks when you go swimming in the ocean from things like undertows and rip currents and lightning, which kill more people than sharks ever do," he told Forbes. And the numbers back that up. According to statistics from the ISAF, beachgoers are more than 100 times more likely to drown in the ocean than get bitten by a shark, per Forbes.

Kali Coleman

5 Key Reasons You Can’t Find Love, According to Experts

 It's time to be honest with yourself.

Falling in love with someone can be one of the most wonderful and miraculous feelings that you can experience in your entire life. It's a truly magical feeling, and it's not surprising that there are countless songs, poems, and renowned pieces of literature that all try to capture the elation and thrill of falling head over heels. In fact, it often seems like the entire world revolves around the idea of falling in love. But it’s not always as easy as they make it seem in the movies, even when online dating is literally at our fingertips. But sometimes it feels like the harder you try, the further you are from finding a lasting connection, and you keep asking yourself, “Why can’t I find love?”"The first step in changing any dating pattern is getting to the root from which the issue stems," says Roxy Zarrabi, a clinical psychologist who specializes in relationships. The truth is that there can be many different reasons why love hasn’t come your way yet, but the good news is that it can, and more importantly, it will. Read on to learn about the top five reasons you may be struggling to find love, and what you can do to break free from the pattern.

You’re Picking Unavailable People

If you were to look back at your dating history, how would you characterize the people you’ve been with? "If you consciously want a lasting relationship but keep getting a different result, you may be subconsciously drawn to unavailable partners," says Zarrabi. In other words, the reason you haven’t found love yet could be that you’re choosing to be with people who can’t really give you what you need and deserve.

"If you consciously want a lasting relationship but keep getting a different result, you may be subconsciously drawn to unavailable partners."

For instance, you may find yourself drawn to men who don’t want to be tied down or to women who are only interested in a fling or being friends with benefits. And rather than being able to enjoy a deep, meaningful, and committed relationship with someone, you’re selecting to be with people who aren’t looking to be with someone for the long-term—a classic form of self-sabotage.If finding love is truly a priority for you, Zarrabi recommends making a list of red flags that previous partners exhibited that tipped you off that they were emotionally unavailable. Review the list often, especially when dating someone new, and keep an eye out for the signs. She also suggests evaluating your own attachment style and the attachment style of partners you're typically drawn to in order to gain insight into how and why you might be repeating the same mistakes over again. Self-awareness can help you choose to be with someone who wants the same things you do and increase your chances of falling in love.

You’re Afraid of Getting Hurt

Breakups can be devastating, and if you’ve been hurt or betrayed by someone in the past, it can be quite challenging to press the restart button and open up to someone new. "Perhaps you consciously want commitment, but deep down you fear true intimacy, losing your sense of self in the relationship, or getting hurt," says Zarrabi.But in order to find true love, you have to let yourself be vulnerable again, as it’s the only way for this deep and personal connection to take place. When you put up walls, keep your partner at arm’s length, and refuse to let them get close to you, this means you’ll never be able to find love because your connection will never move beyond a shallow and superficial level. The reality is that you have to risk getting hurt in order to find love, and even if it seems difficult to trust someone with your heart again, it's worth taking this leap of faith.If you're struggling to move past these feelings, make sure you're looking forward instead of back. "When you are healing from a prior failed relationship or even from a series of them, keep in mind there is no such thing as false hope when going forward," says psychologist Jeffrey Bernstein, Ph.D. "But to help your hope along, it is important to realize that you are STILL the one in control of your relationship destiny going forward."

You Don’t Think You Deserve It

Confidence and self-esteem play a vital role when it comes to love. However, many people are unable to find love because they don’t think they’re worthy of having it. These types of beliefs often have roots reaching as far back as early childhood and can have a huge impact on our lives.If you’re someone who struggles with low self-esteem and intense feelings of self-doubt, it’s time to recognize that this lack of confidence is affecting your behavior and keeping others at bay. "Bringing these beliefs and associated feelings into conscious awareness and practicing affirmations that counteract these beliefs can be a key step in deprogramming these beliefs," recommends Zarrabi. Repeat after me: You are worth it. It can also be beneficial to explore these feelings with the help of a therapist or counselor.

"Bringing these beliefs and associated feelings into conscious awareness and practicing affirmations that counteract these beliefs can be a key step in deprogramming these beliefs"

Though it isn't easy, by changing your outlook and choosing to focus on the positives in your life rather than the negatives, you’ll be better able to see that you’re a special and amazing person who deserves true happiness and love. Put another way: "Know your value!" says Bernstein. "If you do then that alone will help you find a healthy partner because you will stay determined to find someone who accepts and treasures you for who you are." When you’re able to see and believe that you’re worth it, others will be drawn to your upbeat energy and positive vibes, and love is more likely to come your way as well.

You’re Settling

When it comes to finding love, it’s important to set high standards for yourself. Rather than being with someone because you’re afraid of living alone or because you’ve been together for a prolonged period of time, you should choose to be with someone because he or she makes you happy, as this is the only way to find true love. If you’re choosing to be with your partner for the wrong reasons, whether it’s based on money, convenience, or a lack of other options, love will not come your way because your connection isn’t based on anything meaningful or substantial. In order for true love to enter your life, it’s imperative that you place a priority on finding someone who has the qualities that are actually important in a relationship, such as shared morals, values, and life goals.Nor should you expect someone to change for you. Bernstein says to remember that while people can sometimes surprise us, generally what you see is what you get. "Don't make the mistake of unfairly expecting someone you like to be more like the way you want them to be." Sticking around in the hopes that someone will change for the better will likely only lead to disappointment.None of this is to say that you should have an exhaustive list of must-haves in a potential mate. In fact, being open to people you might not consider "your type" could lead to more success than not, especially if you have a history of choosing the wrong partners. Zarrabi warns against discounting someone if you don't feel an immediate spark—especially if that spark has led you down the wrong road in the past. "Try to keep an open mind and go out with this person on a few dates to see if there is potential for a genuine connection to grow between the two of you," she suggests. Sometimes the best match might be the one you least expect.

You’re Not Putting Yourself Out There

From a young age, we're taught by movies, books, and the likes that love will find us—it will just fall out of the sky and we'll know when it's right. And as lovely as that sounds, it's not true for most of us. Finding love takes real work. Remind yourself that it's a numbers game. The more you put yourself out there, the more people you meet and get to know, and the more you push yourself out of your comfort zone, the more likely you are to find love. However, if you go to the same bars every weekend, resist joining a dating app, and don’t actively take more opportunities to try to meet others, you’re hurting your chances of finding someone of interest.By spicing up your routine and putting yourself in the dating world in new ways, this can help put the odds in your favor and enable you to find someone with whom you truly connect. When you prioritize dating and say “yes” to new activities, pastimes, and pursuits, you’re one step closer to finding love.?

Stacey Laura Lloyd

If You See This, Get Out of the Pool Immediately, Experts Warn

 Don't stay in the water if you see this one thing.

There's nothing more refreshing than a dip in a pool on a hot summer day. But, as much as you probably don't want to think of them, there are certain factors that could make your swim session a safety risk. From insufficient chlorine levels to slippery steps to deadly drowning, it's probably not news to you that pools can put you in jeopardy if you're not careful. But there is one thing you may not realize means it's not safe to be in the pool at all—and you need to vacate immediately. To find out what you need to avoid in the pool to stay safe, read on.

If you see lightning or hear thunder, get out of the pool right away.

You may not think much of it if you see a rain drop hit the pool when you're swimming, but it's important to be aware of how quickly a storm can escalate, specifically when lightning and thunder are involved. Safety experts caution swimmers and pool owners that as soon as a storm turns electrical, there's a serious risk of electrocution to anyone in the water, and the pool should be vacated with immediate effect at the first sign of the weather turning."Swimming during a thunderstorm is one of the most dangerous things you can do," the experts at Sunsational Swim School explain. "Lightning regularly strikes water, and since water conducts electricity, a nearby lightning strike could kill or injure you. Any time you hear thunder, or see lightning, you should get out of the water and into a safe place."

You are a likely conduit for electricity in the pool.

Ron Holle, research meteorologist at NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory, explained to USA Today that while swimming pools are small and not likely to be directly hit by lightning, "the area affecting a pool is quite large."Power lines, telephone lines, and plumbing around the pool "are usually unsafe places during a thunderstorm because the current from a lightning strike will travel easily through the standing water, showers, and other plumbing. Since the pump, lights, and other facilities have power lines linked to the plumbing, a hit to any part of a pool complex can affect all of it," Holle says.Plumbing expert Ray Brosnan previously told Best Life that "if lightning strikes, the electrical current will follow the path it finds with the least resistance all the way down to the ground. That means if your body is the best conductor in the vicinity, it'll travel through you too." He adds: "When you are wet, the natural resistance your body has to lightning is slashed in half."

It can be difficult to gauge how close a storm is, so it's best not to swim in the rain.

Normal levels of background noise and conversation can mean the difference between hearing thunder when it's up to 25 miles away, or when it's just a few miles from your pool. The ability of lightning to strike from anywhere in this range of distance means that if the storm is not visibly overhead, stray bolts can still hit you. The experts at Sunsational Swim School note that "even if current lightning is a few miles away, lightning can pop up in new parts of the storm very quickly." So it's best to get out of the pool as soon as you seen rain start to fall.The safety guide from Pool Troopers, a national pool company, says "many pool owners easily misjudge the distance of lightning because it may seem very far away."Typically, Holle says you can hear thunder about 10 miles away, but "in a noisy place, if the wind is blowing, or it is raining, thunder can only be heard for few miles." And while you may be able to see lightning up to 80 miles away on a clear night, during the day, you can't see lightning more than 10 or 20 miles in the distance, he explains."If you hear thunder, you're always in the range of lightning," the experts at Pool Troopers point out. "That does not mean that lightning can't reach you if you can't hear thunder, however. If you know a storm is in the area get out of the water even if you don't hear thunder."

You should head inside a building or car and wait at least 30 minutes post-storm to swim.

If you're at a pool in someone's yard with a pergola or other similar shelter, that's not far enough away or enclosed enough to consider yourself safe. The National Weather Service explains that "buildings with exposed sides are NOT safe (even if they are "grounded"). These include beach shacks, metal sheds, picnic shelters/pavilions, carports, and baseball dugouts. Porches are dangerous as well."Once indoors, be sure to stay away from any windows, doors, or concrete floors or walls. Concrete sits atop metal decking, which can easily conduct electricity. "Lightning can travel through any metal wires or bars in concrete walls or flooring," the CDC says.If you can't get inside a safe building, a car is the next best spot to be. Holle points out that a lightning threat typically "lasts less than an hour. So, instead of leaving [the pool] for the day, it would seem reasonable to wait in the car or another lightning-safe place until the thunderstorm has passed, then return."He suggests waiting at least 30 minutes to go back in the pool. "We recommend a 30-minute wait after the last flash or thunder. The two together provide the basis for the '30-30 rule'. The first 30 is for the 30-second flash-to-bang time when a safe place should have been reached. The other 30 is for the 30 minutes' wait after the last lightning or thunder," he says.

John Quinn

If You Notice This on a Hot Day, Call 911 Immediately, Experts Warn

 This surprising symptom could be your body's way of warning you about a deadly condition.

If you feel like you're more susceptible to hot weather these days and need to take extra special care on a summer day, it's not your mind playing tricks on you. For one thing, the earth keeps getting hotter (just take a look at the research provided by The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)!). Secondly, as we get older we become more vulnerable to the heat."As we age, our ability to adequately respond to summer heat can become a serious problem," reports the National Institutes of Health (NIH). "Older people are at a significantly increased risk of heat-related illnesses, known collectively as hyperthermia, during the summer months."Read on to learn what surprising symptom could be a red flag that you're experiencing hyperthermia—and why you should seek help immediately if you notice it.

Hyperthermia has three distinct stages.

The three main stages of hyperthermia are heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. While you may not associate muscle pain and spasms with dehydration and heat-related conditions, heat cramps are "painful, involuntary muscle spasms that usually occur during heavy exercise in hot environments," according to the Mayo Clinic. "The spasms may be more intense and more prolonged than are typical nighttime leg cramps," their experts write.Heat exhaustion, the next main stage of hyperthermia, may manifest with heavy sweating, a weak pulse, nausea, and fatigue, among other symptoms. If heat exhaustion progresses to heatstroke, the condition can be fatal.Some of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke overlap: Other signs include headache, confusion, rapid heart rate, nausea or vomiting, and loss of consciousness, according to Beaumont Health.

Your body needs fluids in order to produce sweat.

If you're overheated, you're drenched with sweat—right? Not necessarily. It's true that your body cools itself by producing sweat. "When your internal temperature rises, your sweat glands release water to the surface of your skin," explains Healthline. "As the sweat evaporates, it cools your skin and your blood beneath your skin."But if you're dangerously hot, your body may not be able to regulate your temperature using its tried-and-true method of cooling off with sweat."When the body's temperature increases very quickly, it is unable to compensate using its usual cooling mechanisms such as sweating," warns Donna Schisler, RN, BSN, Clinical Manager at Advantis Medical. "Many times, this is brought on by spending too much time in the heat and becoming dehydrated."That's because people frequently forget, or are unable, to stay adequately hydrated in severe heat—and fluids are needed in order to replace the water the body loses in the heat.

Heatstroke is the final stage of hyperthermia.

Approximately 700 people die of heat-related conditions each year in the U.S., according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with 90 percent of these deaths occurring between May and September."Heatstroke is deadly and can quickly result in injury and death without treatment," Schisler warns. "During heatstroke, the body loses the ability to regulate its temperature due to outside factors such as humidity or temperatures that are so high that sweating is inadequate."Being mindful of the heat is the first step in preventing hyperthermia. Many people in a hot environment don't always remember to hydrate or take breaks to cool off. It's also important to know the signs of heat-related conditions—which may surprise you. You might associate being overheated with heavy perspiration. But not sweating can be your body's way of telling you that you're in serious danger.

Staying hydrated is one way to keep the healthy sweat flowing.

Making sure to drink fluids—as well as knowing which fluids to stay away from—is an essential component in preventing heat stroke and other stages of hyperthermia. "During physically strenuous activities, drink fluids such as sports drinks that contain electrolytes and salt to replace the minerals your body has sweat out," advises Schisler, adding that it's best to stay away from alcohol and sugary drinks.Schisler also recommends checking the temperature before you go outside, especially in the summer, and using air conditioning when the heat is above 90 degrees. "A fan is not sufficient to avoid heatstroke," she warns. "If you need to go out during the afternoon when the sun is strongest, dress appropriately with flowy, light-colored clothing, wide brimmed hats, and bring an umbrella for shade. Wear sunscreen when in the sun, as the body cannot regulate temperature appropriately when sunburned."

Luisa Colón

End a First Date the Right Way With These 3 Tips

 Going on a first date can be exciting and nerve-wracking all at once. Will the two of you hit it off? Will you have a lot in common? Will the conversation flow? While you may be spending all of your time and energy thinking about how you should act when you're on a first date, it's just as important to consider how to end a date, too.Whether you're meeting a blind date for coffee, having dinner with a friend that you're newly romantic with, or something in between, the last few minutes of your encounter can often be the biggest impression you leave someone with. No matter how the date turns out, it’s important to understand how to end a first date the right way so that you’re being your best self—whether it was the best or worst first date that you’ve ever had in your life. After all, you may leave the date truly wanting to see this person again, and the last thing you want to do is self-sabotage by sending the wrong signals.Before heading out the door to meet your date, consider these tips on how to avoid sending the wrong message at the end of the outing.

Express Your Gratitude 

If you want to win big points when you end a first date, as well as do the right and polite thing, you should always remember to say, “thank you.” It may be that they paid for your meal or drinks, and you are thanking them for picking up the tab. Your gratitude can extend beyond a financial dependence, though. You could be thanking them for their time, especially if they had to drive across town or struggled with parking. Gratitude goes a long way, whether the date was good or bad."Be positive," says psychologist Martin Graff. "Even if the date doesn’t go well, you will at least leave a favorable impression. Remember they are associating you with the situation, and it is possible to be found attractive by association with a positive experience."The bottom line is that ending a first date on a positive note by thanking this person for coming and meeting up with you is a simple gesture that can go a long way. Even if you don’t want to see this person again, or if you had a frustrating day prior to the date, or if you simply don’t care about the impression you make, it's always a good idea to be well-mannered. You may not fall in love at first sight, but it is just as important not to give anyone reason to hate you after you go because you were rude.

Try to Set Up the Next Date

According to psychologist Marty Nemko, another important tip when ending a first date is to try and lock down the second date before you leave. "If you’d like to see the person again, make a date right then or at least specify when you’ll be back in touch. It’s rude to leave a person hanging."While you may be used to speaking in generalities with phrases such as, “We should do this again sometime,” or “It’d be fun to meet up again at some point,” you shouldn’t hesitate to take it a step further and get into specifics regarding your next date. This technique can also be a helpful indicator regarding your date’s feelings for you. If they're eager to see you again then you are more likely to leave a first date with concrete plans; if they seem unsure, vague, or uninterested, you might not want to invest the time.

Be Kind No Matter How You Feel

Speaking of not wanting to see your date again, it’s always in your best interest to be kind and respectful when ending a first date. Even if you had a terrible time, were counting down the minutes until the date ended, and would have loved to tell your date exactly how you felt, it’s still better to put your best self forward and act in a kindhearted way.There is a certain amount of benefit of the doubt that you have to give someone, especially if this was a blind date or set up via the internet or an app. Your inclination may be to point out that they do not look like their profile pictures, or that they come off as conceited, or that they are simply boring, but instead you should always opt for maturity. You can end the date by saying, “Take care,” rather than saying, “Take a hike!”It's also important that you don't lead someone on and give false hope. For example, while they may want to set up a specific time and location for the next date, it's unkind to make specific plans and then cancel them later. "If the other person puts you on the spot by suggesting another date, smile and say something like, 'I have enjoyed meeting you but I don’t see any possibilities here.Of course, if you're nervous about turning them down on the spot, just say you'll let them know. This can also be an important safety tactic, as some people can take rejection badly. Maybe the reason the date didn't go well was because you got an unsettling feeling. Use your best judgment and, when in doubt, always put your safety over politeness.When it comes to dating, it's best practice to follow the golden rule and treat others how you'd like to be treated.

Stacey Laura Lloyd