50 Easy Ways to Be a (Much) More Romantic Man

 It's the little things that make her swoon.

To be clear: Despite what rom-coms and the above headline might imply, romance isn't simple. In fact, there's no formula, fix, or surefire move that will automatically make you worthy of a Luther Vandross lyric. That's because romance depends on so many factors—from your relationship status (are you courting or are you comfortable?) to all the other internal stuff that you bring to a relationship, a rendezvous, or any one moment in time. And that's not even including the factors like self-esteem and trust that influence how we give and receive romantic gestures throughout our lives.Despite romance's complexities, that doesn't mean you can't improve your amorous arsenal with your partner. After all, isn't the whole point to dance with your beloved through life in sync, close together, and maybe even a little sweaty, too? So read on, and learn how to raise your romance-level through the roof.

1.Hug Like a Dog

Hugs and kisses should have energy, says Dr. Jessica O'Reilly, host of the @SexWithDrJess Podcast. "Use your dog's energy and enthusiasm as inspiration," she says. "When a dog greets you with a wagging tail and affection, it calms your nerves and makes you feel loved."

2.Text an Emoji for No Reason

Shoot her the old "heart eyes" in the middle of the day.

3.Give This as a "Just Because" Gift

A favorite Instagram post of the two of you, printed and framed.

4.Commit to One Minute

Take 60 seconds every day to do something that makes your partner feel important, says O'Reilly. That can be anything from making their tea to warming up the car to cleaning a laptop screen. "Small favors pack a huge punch in terms of maintain the connection," she says. "When you make them feel important, they benefit from a boost in serotonin, which can help you ignite passion in the relationship."

5.Thanking for the Little Things Means a Lot

Say thank you for things you take for granted, like grocery shopping or any kind of run-of-the-mill responsibilities, says O'Reilly. It reduces the resentment and increases the harmony, she says.

6.You Can Never Go Wrong With Extra Attention

To the neck.

7.Warm Wins

Greet your partner exiting the shower with a towel you just took out of the dryer.

8.Memorize the Law of Floral Relativity

Getting flowers < knowing which flowers to get < Surprising with flowers for no reason at all.

9.Memorize the Law of Domestic Relativity

Doing chores < doing your partner's chores < cleaning the toilet/sheets/towels before they need cleaning.

10.Memorize the Law of Social Media Relativity

Posting < commenting < keeping it to yourself.

11.Prepare More Meals Together

Ava Cadell, Ph.D., author of Neuroloveology: The Power of Mindful Love & Sex, recommends a fruit salad as the go-to dish. "I know it sounds simple," she says, "but once you stand by side, slicing juicy mangos, peaches, oranges, plums, and apricots, it won't be long until you'll be feeding each other the succulent fruit."

12.Back Off Sometimes

Smothering may work for butter, gravy, and marinara, but not for relationships. Time alone makes for better time together.

13.Say These Phrases More Often

"You look…"

"Miss you."

"Wanna dance?"

14.Say These Phrases Much Less

"Wanna [other verb]?"

"I think."

"Dilly dilly."

15.New Never Gets Old

Date night for long-term couples should use strategies from short-term couples: Trying something new each time. Studies show that novelty is good for romance. It can be as simple as driving across town for dinner to get away from routine spots or more elaborate outings like doing some kind of weekend retreat that focuses on something like cooking or yoga. 

16.Take Turns Taking Charge

Goes for decision-making, meal-making, love-making.

17.Sugar Needs to Overpower the Salt

Research shows that when communicating with a partner, you need to make five positive comments for every negative one, says Sadie Leder Elder, Ph.D., associate professor at High Point University who studies romantic relationships.

18.It's Better in Real Life Than in an Emoji

A wink is only effective if it comes sparingly and selectively.

19.Volunteer Together

Research shows that those who do something altruistic outside of the relationship have a better connection.

20.Write More

Love notes are good. I'm-sorry notes are better.

21.Cheer!

Treat good news from your partner the way you would a sporting event. A study in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found better relationship satisfaction when a person was very enthusiastic about good news from their partner.

22.Play

Ping pong.

23.Untether When You're Together.

A Baylor University study found lower relationship satisfaction when couples perceived their partners choosing their phones over them.

24.Don't Try Too Hard

Cliché that doesn't come off like one: Wine, pizza, and a movie. Cliché that does: 4-foot tall stuffed animals.

25.Share

Dessert. The remote. Laps.

26.Do Not Share

Toothbrushes. Offices. Sub-tweets about your relationship.

27.Schedule Some Stealth Convo Time

If logistically possible, carpool every so often. It's a chance to catch up and slow down in an otherwise hectic schedule.

28.Get Away

Hike a little more. Hustle a little less.

29.Accordion the Way You Touch Each Other

Vary from so-so-so-so light to love-love-you tight.

30.Shop for Smells

Candles can bring different scents into your home, but you can make the smells even more personal by taking a trip to a spice or herb market and picking out ones you both like, Cadell says. Combine them to make a customized bowl of scents for the bedroom.

31.Summons Your Inner Detective

Notice something that never gets noticed.

32.Give In

You don't need to win every disagreement. The willingness to sacrifice is a big component of increasing connectedness in a relationship, Elder says.

33.Practice Patience

Undress yourselves slowly and silently, Cadell suggests. Watch. Listen. Wait.

34.Good Ears Will Never Let You Down

Tune in for birthday-present hints starting at 180 days out, not 180 minutes.

35.Text for More Than Logistics

Wordplay is foreplay.

36.After-play Is As Important

One recent study showed that both relationship and sexual satisfaction increased when as much time was spent being close with each other after sex as it was beforehand.

37.Customize Every Toast

When you clink glasses, say something short, say something specific, say something sneaky. "For helping our daughter with her history project" trumps "Cheers."

38.Volley, Volley, Volley

Ask more than you answer.

39.Add This to Your Shopping List

One of Cadell's favorite ways to sweeten sex is a game using honey, your body, and blindfold.

40.Use Your Bathroom Better

Shave her legs. Shave his face. Hot water, lather, steam, skin, and sharp objects make a cocktail of trust and sensuality.

40.Keep Your Eyes Open During Sex

Especially at the most vulnerable moment, Cadell says. "Even sexier than seeing is to truly feel like you are being seen," she says.

41.Get Away to Get Together

Vacations, even for one night, can start the simmering. Vacations, if they involve bathing suits and bodies of water, raise the temp to boiling.

42.Read the Most Important Sentence in This Whole Piece

The most underrated use of your own tongue: Biting it.

43.Surprise More

Remembering a wedding anniversary is a given. Remembering a stealthier anniversary—a first date, a first sight—is golden.

44.Forgive Mistakes More Easily

People with high self-esteem report having higher levels of connectedness, Elder says. Part of that comes from feelings of unconditional love—the kind that parents give children, she says. That doesn't mean you can't have conflict, but forgiveness shows relationships are less fragile.

45.Share Content

Send an appropriate-to-your-partner story link with the subject line "reminded me of you."

46.Walk the Dog Together

And not as a chore. It's a time to bond, a time to chat, and a time to—literally and metaphorically—show that you're willing to be the one to clean up the crap.

47.Commit to 15 Minutes

One night a week, help each other stretch before bed.

48.Be Kind

To your partner's other circles—friends, family, co-workers—even if you mix together like OJ and toothpaste.

49.Compliment

Accomplishments as much as—if not more than—appearances.

50.Hold Hands

When nobody is watching. When everybody is watching.

Ted Spiker

This Is Exactly How You Can Have More Energy in the Morning

 From a cold shower to a cup of matcha, here's how to get a morning energy boost. 

Despite what you may think, not many people jump out of bed feeling like the Energizer bunny every day. Even your friends who power through their mornings without any grogginess in sight probably had to put in the effort to get there—and there are some simple tactics anyone can do to get on their level. Whether it's adding a few extra steps to your morning routine, switching up your breakfast, or reexamining the eight hours before you open your eyes, these are the changes you can make now to up your energy levels.

1.Put yourself first.

How often do you wake up and instantly start going through your email before getting out of bed? Even if you initially woke up with energy, that's a surefire way to zap it. Instead, Hilary Hinrichs, the New York City-based health and nutrition coach behind Holistic Hilary, recommends taking time for yourself before you dive into work and catching up on messages."A great way to help ease stress and have a more productive morning is by putting yourself first," she says. "Stress can deplete energy, so avoiding things like emails, social media, or texts until you absolutely need to check them can keep your morning energy levels up."

2.Get in some light exercise.

Moving your body first-thing in the morning can help wake you up and increase your energy for the day. "Engaging in some light exercise or going on a walk in the morning is an easy way to uplift your mood," Hinrichs says. Even 10 minutes of yoga or a quick HIIT workout will help. Do whatever feels best for you, and you'll reap the energy-boosting benefits.

3.Don't drink coffee right after waking up.

If you tend to pour yourself a cup of coffee in the morning in order to get an energy boost, switch up your habits and go for water or herbal tea first—two things Hinrichs says will energize your mornings much better than a cup of joe."Staying hydrated is crucial for energy levels to stay up all morning long," she says. "Even though most people love drinking coffee, it's not only dehydrating but can also cause you to crash earlier when you drink it right away. By putting coffee off for a few hours, you'll wake up more naturally."

4.Dim or turn off lights at least 30 minutes before bed.

According to Hinrichs, sometimes having more energy in the morning starts the night before. And the best thing you can do to wake up feeling more energized is dim the lights around your bedtime."A great way to increase energy in the morning is by avoiding lights at least 30 minutes before the time you'd like to fall asleep," Hinrichs says. "This can help naturally increase melatonin in your body to alert your brain that it's time for bed. When we have lights on, it can act similar to the sun keeping us more alert and make it harder to fall asleep at night."

5.Put away your phone before going to bed.

Speaking of the night before, there's one other thing you can do, too. Not only does your phone emit blue light that messes with your sleep, but that endless scrolling can also stress you out before bed—two things that won't have you waking up feeling happy and energized. "Place your phone out of reach in order to avoid checking it over and over again," Hinrichs says. By doing so, you'll start your day much more refreshed, both mentally and physically.

6.Eat healthy fats.

If you want long-lasting energy, the key is adding in healthy fats. That way you won't be left hungry and tired an hour after eating. "I recommend keeping several healthy fats in your kitchen so you can easily add them to your breakfast," says Amy Gorin, MS, RDN, a plant-based registered dietitian in the New York City area. "For instance, pistachios add delicious satiating plant-based protein, fiber, and better-for-you mono- and polyunsaturated fat to [your] oatmeal and yogurt parfaits. I'd also recommend keeping avocado on hand as a topping for omelets or breakfast burritos."

7.And get some protein.

Are you getting enough protein in your breakfast? According to Gorin, it's an important complement to fiber and healthy fats. "Whether your protein of choice is a couple of eggs, beans in a breakfast rice bowl, or Greek yogurt in a parfait, having ample protein in your breakfast will help your meal stay with you for longer—which means more energy," she says.

8.Drink plenty of water.

Gorin says every day should begin by drinking water, as it's not only a way to combat headaches, but also fatigue. "Accomplish this however works best for you, whether that means leaving a bottle of water on your nightstand or pairing a large glass of water with your breakfast," she says. "You can even infuse fruit such as strawberries in a pitcher of water overnight."

9.Eat more fresh fruit.

Having some fruit first thing in the morning is one of the most simple ways to up your energy. "It can be a great way to gently wake up your digestive system," Hinrichs says. "It contains fiber, is full of nutrients, and has the healthy carbohydrates our bodies thrive on for energy. Whether you're pairing fruit with oats, making a smoothie, or eating it on its own, any of those options can be a great way to energize you in the morning."

10.Try some matcha.

Matcha is one of the best morning beverages for upping your energy levels. Although it contains caffeine, it's different than coffee in that it's balanced out with L-theanine and therefore energizes you more slowly—aka there's no sudden crash an hour later. You can sip it as a tea, or make a frothy matcha latte."L-theanine promotes both alertness and calm at the same time," Michael J. Breus, PhD, a clinical psychologist and sleep expert in Manhattan Beach, California, wrote on his website. "It can put you in a state of wakeful relaxation, reducing stress and anxiety while at the same time improving focus and concentration."

11.Limit how much negative news you consume.

A lot of people start their day by turning on the news, reading the newspaper, or checking the latest headlines online to see what's happening in the world. But according to the Mayo Clinic, news overdose is a thing, and it can really get you down—especially with everything happening in the world right now. Instead of letting the negativity suck all your energy, do something happier first-thing instead.

12.Get some fresh air and sunshine.

What's more simple than stepping outside in order to give your energy levels a boost? A past study in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found the exposure to bright morning light can be effective against insomnia, making you feel less tired and more energized. Bonus: It can also help with seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

13.Take a cold shower

Kicking your day off with an ice-cold shower might not sound pleasant, but it's a proven way to up your energy in the mornings. A 2016 study published in PLoS One found 91 percent of the participants wanted to continue their cold shower routine after the study ended because of how energized it made them feel in the mornings. In fact, they said it gave them a similar effect to drinking caffeine. When you shower, finish with at least 30 seconds of cold water to reap the benefits.

Tehrene Firman

7 Reasons to Eat More Citrus Fruits

 Sweet, brightly colored citrus fruits bring a burst of sunshine into winter days. But citrus fruits are not only flavorful and pretty — they’re also good for you.

This class of fruits includes lemons, limes, oranges and grapefruit, as well as many more hybrids and varieties.

They have a bunch of health benefits, from boosting immunity to fighting cancer.

Read on to find out 7 reasons to eat citrus fruits.

What Are Citrus Fruits?

Citrus fruits grow on flowering trees and shrubs. They are characterized by a leathery rind and white pith that encases juicy segments.

They’re native to Australia, New Guinea, New Caledonia and possibly Southeast Asia (1Trusted Source).

Nowadays, they are cultivated in tropical and subtropical climates all over the world. Major production hubs include Spain, Brazil, China, the US, Mexico and India (1Trusted Source).

Interestingly, nearly a third of all citrus fruits are used to make juice (1Trusted Source).

You can find all kinds of citrus fruits year round. The peak season for oranges and grapefruits in the Northern Hemisphere is between mid-December and April.

Here are some popular varieties of citrus fruits:

    Sweet oranges: Valencia, navel, blood orange, cara cara

    Mandarins: Satsuma, clementine, tangor, tangelo

    Limes: Persian, key lime, kaffir

    Grapefruit: White, ruby red, oroblanco

    Lemons: Eureka, Meyer

    Other kinds: Citron, sudachi, yuzu, pomelos

Read on for 7 reasons to add these fruits to your diet.

1. They’re Rich in Vitamins and Plant Compounds

Citrus fruits are an excellent source of vitamin C, a nutrient that strengthens the immune system and keeps your skin smooth and elastic (2Trusted Source, 3Trusted Source, 4Trusted Source, 5Trusted Source).

In fact, just one medium orange has all the vitamin C you need in a day (6).

Citrus fruits also have good amounts of other vitamins and minerals that your body needs to function properly, including B vitamins, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium and copper (7Trusted Source).

Additionally, they are rich in plant compounds that have various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

hese compounds include over 60 varieties of flavonoids, carotenoids and essential oils, and they are responsible for many of citrus fruit’s health benefits (7Trusted Source, 8Trusted Source).

    Summary:

    Citrus fruits are very nutritious, offering a host of vitamins, minerals and plant compounds that help keep you healthy.

2. They’re a Good Source of Fiber

Citrus fruits are a good source of fiber. Just one cup of orange segments contains four grams of fiber (6).

To put that in perspective, it’s recommended that you consume 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories you eat. It’s estimated that only 4% of men and 13% of women in the US get that amount (9Trusted Source).

Fiber has several health benefits, including improving digestive health and aiding weight loss.

Oranges are particularly high in soluble fiber, the kind of fiber that helps lower cholesterol levels (10Trusted Source).

Compared to other fruits and vegetables, citrus fruits are unique in that they have a higher ratio of soluble to insoluble fiber (11Trusted Source).

    Summary:

    Citrus fruits are good sources of soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol and aids digestion.

3. Citrus Fruits Are Low in Calories

If you’re watching your calorie intake, citrus fruits are a good choice.

They’re low in calories, yet their water and fiber contents help fill you up.

Here’s how many calories the main kinds of citrus fruits contain (6, 12, 13, 14, 15):

    1 small clementine: 35

    1 medium orange: 62

    1/2 pink grapefruit: 52

    1/2 white grapefruit: 39

    Juice from 1 lemon: 12

What’s more, a 2015 study that looked at people’s eating habits and weight over 24 years found that eating citrus fruits was linked to weight loss (16Trusted Source).

    Summary:

    Citrus fruits are low in calories, making them a smart choice for people seeking to lose or maintain their weight.

4. They May Reduce Your Risk of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are painful mineral crystals.

They can form when your urine is very concentrated or when you have higher-than-normal amounts of stone-forming minerals in your urine.

One type of kidney stone is caused by low levels of citrate in urine.

Many fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, can raise the levels of citrate in your urine, lowering the risk of kidney stones (17Trusted Source).

Drinking citrus juices and eating these fruits can offer a natural alternative to potassium citrate supplements.

According to data on American eating habits over the last 40 years, kidney stones are more common in people who eat fewer citrus fruits (18Trusted Source).

    Summary:

    Eating citrus fruits may help lower the risk of kidney stones in some people by raising citrate levels in urine.

5. They May Help Fight or Protect Against Cancer

Many studies have linked citrus fruits to a reduced risk of certain cancers (1Trusted Source).

In one study, people who ate one grapefruit or drank one serving of grapefruit juice daily had a lower risk of lung cancer (19Trusted Source).

Other studies have suggested that citrus fruits may also protect against esophageal, stomach, breast and pancreatic cancers (20Trusted Source, 21Trusted Source, 22Trusted Source, 23Trusted Source).

These fruits contain a host of plant compounds, including flavonoids, that may help protect against cancer (8Trusted Source).

Some of these flavonoids act as antioxidants and may block the expression of certain genes that are responsible for some degenerative diseases, including cancer (8Trusted Source).

Citrus fruits may also help fight cancer by suppressing cancers, blocking the formation of new cancers and making carcinogens inactive (8Trusted Source).

    Summary:

    Citrus fruits have been widely studied for their protective effects on a variety of cancer types.

6. They Contain Nutrients That Boost Heart Health

Eating citrus fruits could be good for your heart.

In fact, a Japanese study found that people who ate higher amounts of these fruits had lower rates of heart disease and stroke (24Trusted Source).

Furthermore, a 2017 review suggests that grapefruits are linked to a decrease in systolic blood pressure (25Trusted Source).

Several compounds in citrus fruits can improve markers of heart health.

For example, their soluble fiber and flavonoids may improve cholesterol levels by raising “good” HDL cholesterol and lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides (7Trusted Source).

And many of the flavonoids in citrus fruits, including one called naringin, are strong antioxidants that benefit the heart in several ways (26Trusted Source).

    Summary:

    Many compounds in citrus fruits can benefit heart health by improving cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure.

7. They May Protect Your Brain

The flavonoids in citrus fruits may help ward off neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, which result from the breakdown of cells in the nervous system.

In part, these diseases are caused by inflammation.

Flavonoids found in citrus fruits have anti-inflammatory capabilities that are thought to help protect against the chain of events that causes the nervous system to deteriorate (27Trusted Source, 28Trusted Source).

Specific types of flavonoids, including hesperidin and apigenin, have been shown to protect brain cells and improve brain function in mice and test-tube studies (27Trusted Source).

Several studies in older adults have also shown that citrus juices may boost brain function (29Trusted Source, 30Trusted Source, 31Trusted Source).

    Summary:

    Citrus fruits and juices may help boost brain function and protect the brain from neurodegenerative disorders.

The Downside of Citrus Fruits

While the overall picture of citrus is pretty rosy, there are a few potential downsides.

High Amounts Could Cause Cavities

Eating lots of citrus fruits or juices could increase the risk of cavities. That’s because the acid in citrus fruits erodes tooth enamel (32Trusted Source, 33Trusted Source).

This is a particular risk if you sip on lemon water all day long, bathing your teeth in acid.

Interestingly, certain compounds in citrus peels may combat the bacteria that cause dental cavities, although more research is needed to see how that information could be used (34Trusted Source).

Fruit Juice Isn’t as Healthy as Whole Fruit

While orange and grapefruit juices contain lots of vitamin C and other nutrients often found in whole citrus fruits, they’re not quite as healthy.

That’s because a serving of juice delivers much more sugar and way less fiber than a serving of whole fruit (6, 35).

There are a couple reasons why that’s a problem.

First, more sugar per serving translates to more calories. Drinking fruit juice and other high-calorie beverages can cause you to gain weight (36Trusted Source).

Second, when your body takes in large amounts of fructose (the type of sugar in fruit juice), it is quickly absorbed into your bloodstream and delivered to your liver (37Trusted Source).

If your liver gets more fructose than it can handle, it turns some of the extra fructose into fat. Over time, those fat deposits can cause fatty liver disease (38Trusted Source).

Getting fructose from whole fruit is not a problem, given that you’re getting a smaller amount at a time. Plus, the fiber found in fruit buffers the fructose, causing it to be absorbed more slowly into your bloodstream.

Grapefruit Can Interact With Certain Medications

Eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice can be a problem if you take certain medications.

There’s an enzyme in your gut that reduces the absorption of certain medications. Furanocoumarin, a chemical in grapefruit, binds to this enzyme and keeps it from working properly.

As a result, your body absorbs more medication than it’s supposed to (39Trusted Source).

Furanocoumarin is also found in tangelos and Seville oranges (the kind used for marmalade).

There are several prescription and over-the-counter drugs that are affected by grapefruit, including (40Trusted Source):

    Some statins, for high cholesterol, including Lipitor and Zocor

    Some calcium channel blockers, for high blood pressure, including Plendil and Procardia

    Cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant drug

    Some Benzodiazepines, including Valium, Halcion and Versed

    Other medications, including Allegra, Zoloft and Buspar

    Summary:

    While citrus fruits are generally healthy, they can have some drawbacks. Their acid can erode tooth enamel and grapefruit can interact with some medications.

The Bottom Line

There are many reasons to eat citrus fruits.

They’re nutritious and contain plant compounds that can protect against a variety of diseases, including cancer, heart disease, brain dysfunction and kidney stones.

But aim to consume whole fruits, rather than a lot of fruit juice, as its high sugar content can lead to problems.

Overall, citrus fruits are healthy, low in calories and convenient to eat. Most people could benefit from adding more citrus to their diet. 

Kerri-Ann Jennings

12 Ways to Make a Sad Friend or any Person Happy

 The most important thing about happiness is that you’re able to share it. There’s a special feeling when you make somebody happy, it is not how much you have but how much you enjoy sharing the happiness you feel inside. Imagine the world how beautiful it would be if everyone could spend more time sharing their happiness. It’s a small act of kindness that doesn’t take a lot of effort to make someone happy. Sharing your happiness and genuinely taking care of a person you treasure the most helps you become a better person. By making other people happier, you create a happier life for yourself.The best thing you can do for a sad friend is to listen and support him or her. Help her see things from a different perspective and encourage her to cheer up and be happy because life is a beautiful thing and there is so much more to smile about. Here are some suggestions on how to make a sad friend or any person happy.

1. Smile

Did you know that the easiest and most effective way to make someone happy is to smile at them first? Sharing your smile is a sign of friendship and peace. It will give a positive countenance that will surely make people around you happy and comfortable. Your smile makes life more colorful and beautiful. So if you have one smile, give it to people you value the most.

2. Be a good listener

Another easy way to make someone feel appreciated when they are feeling down is to simply hear them out. Sometimes that’s the only thing they need in order to get out from a negative headspace. Trying to understand their thoughts even if you’re not in their shoes, shows genuine interest and gratitude about their own feelings.

3. Spend quality time

Aside from showing that you care about them, show them how much you enjoy their company. Offering your time and effort is one of the greatest things you can do to your brokenhearted friends. During their downcast, they need someone who will be there to cheer them up. You may go on a date together, watch your favorite movie or go on an adventure, this will help a sad friend stay out of focus from the things that keep on bothering her.

4. Make them feel appreciated

Giving out compliments is a sure-fire way to make someone happy. There’s a lot of positive things you may say to them, like by merely saying “you look good today”, “I like your dress” or “You have nice hair” which could make a person feel appreciated. A sincere compliment to a person who feels depressed could lighten up their gloomy days.

5. Show some encouragement

The world may sometimes be a discouraging place, but if you encourage someone who is in a negative situation perhaps, it will lessen the burden that your friend is carrying. So be that someone who will uplift her instead of pulling her down, be that someone who will shower her with positive vibes rather than show her the opposite of it.

6. Tell a joke or share something funny

Share some funny videos or tell silly jokes that will surely make them laugh and forget their sadness. Laughter is the best medicine for those who are in pain. Good humor will ease all their struggles in life. It is now the universal way to lift our heads and say that everything will be okay.

7. Speak kind words

It is a very simple practice when you endeavor to speak in a kind way to people around you. A typical example would be, by saying “Everything is going to be okay”, “Thank you” or “You can do it”.  Kind words may not cost much but they accomplish well.

8. Send gifts

Have you ever tried giving flowers or giving simple gifts even if there are no special occasions? Surprising someone without any particular reason will brighten up his or her day.  It will help people smile in a fantastic way despite all the problems they are facing in life.

9. Say I love you

It is not embarrassing to show affection to the one you love like your family, friends or special someone. It is important to remind them how much you love them every day, particularly during the times when they feel sad and unappreciated. A simple “I love you”  will relieve the pain and sadness they feel.

10. Call or text just to check them

Most of us tend to call and text people only when we need something. However, sometimes it feels good to receive a text or call from a special someone without any reason because what we need for happiness is just a good conversation. Checking them out will make them feel valued, cared for, and will make them happy since you’ve taken the time to talk to them just because you wanted to, not because you need something from them.

11. Help out by giving advice

If you found someone who is in trouble or struggling in life, simple support is enough for them. Try your best to help them out, a  helping hand is always a saving grace. You will not only feel good about yourself, but you’ll feel good that you just saved someone from being caged in their predicament.

12. Remind them that they are not alone

Despite all the difficulties they’re facing, always remind them that you are there to support them all the way. Never let them feel that they are waking single-handedly. Tell them to be kind to themselves and not to compare themselves to other people who they perceive are happier and better than them.

Living in this big and complicated world is indeed a blood-curdling road to venture down. However, with the support of the people around us, everything gets lighter and easier. If you want happiness for a lifetime, make an effort to help someone else. Share your happiness and spread the positive vibes around you. It is not about what you have but about doing something that makes you happy.

Marydel Mitch Flores

The 20 Best Couple Games to Play During Date Night

 Want to add a little spice to your next date night? The next time you’re planning a cozy night in with your special someone, take things to the next level with a board, card, or DIY game. The couples who play together, stay together, after all!To give you a little inspiration, we listed our favorite 20 couple games to play with your partner. Game on!

 Board Games

Paris: La Cité de la Lumière

If you’re looking for a beautiful two-player game for your next date night, you can’t go wrong with Paris: La Cité de la Lumière. Featuring a stunning design, this board game is as attractive as it is fun and you and your partner will have a ball trying to conquer it.  

Set in 19th-century Paris, during the World’s Fair, this is a game of two halves. In the first half of the game, you have to build up the streets of the city with a variety of oddly shaped creations. Next, in the second half of the game, the aim is to place more of your buildings close to the street lights than your partner does to light up the city. 

Tiny Towns

In Tiny Towns, you get your own 4x4 grid on which to build up your town. For each building you create, you will get a certain number of victory points with the goal being to out-score your partner. Use the resources—i.e. cards and pieces—available to you on the board and start building. The game ends when there are no more resources left for you to get. 

I Should Have Known That 

It’s time to test your trivia knowledge! I Should Have Known That is an easy-to-play game for couples or larger groups. Packed with infuriating questions that you should know the answer to, this is a date night game that will unleash your competitive side. Rather than getting points for each correct answer here, you lose points when you get one wrong. 

With more than 400 questions, you should have hours of fun with your partner. Warning: You might get frustrated when you get these wrong! Especially with questions like, "How long did Sleeping Beauty actually sleep?" and "Is a penguin a bird?"

St. Noire

Love a good murder mystery? Here’s a date night game that will have you donning your detective’s hat. St. Noire is an Alexa-hosted, cinematic board game for adults. There’s been a murder in a small town and the killer has promised to strike again. Together with your partner listen to the audio track and play along on the board and card game. Will you figure out who the murderer is before the clock runs out?    

Fog of Love

If you’re obsessed with rom-coms, Fog of Love is the perfect board game for your next date night. The two-player game sees you each take on a character in your own story. First, you create a persona by drawing cards. Read your cards and get to know your fictional characters. That’s important as you will be playing as this person (not yourself!). 

After that, it’s time to start playing the game and go through different scenes as your characters. For example, you may play out a "Sunday Morning Date" or an "Awkward Situation" scene. The aim of the game is to create a unique and entertaining love story. 

 Romantic Games

Love Language: The Card Game

What makes the start of a relationship so thrilling is the endless questions you ask. With each answer, you come a little closer to uncovering the mystery of this new, intriguing person. However, when you’ve been together for some time, you often lose that sense of curiosity. That’s exactly where Love Language: The Card Game comes into play.

The set of 150 cards each focus on a specific category: Family, Intimacy, Couple, Individual, and Past & Future. You can choose to either focus on one specific topic or select cards from all of the above. Take turns picking a card and asking your partner the question on there. For example, the card may say, "What’s one memory that instantly makes you smile?" Have your partner answer and then take your turn! 

We’re Not Really Strangers 

We’re Not Really Strangers is a meaningful couples card game that helps you build a deeper relationship with your partner. Throughout the game, you take turns to answer a variety of questions such as, "What can I help you with?" and "How are you, really?" The key is to answer each as openly and honestly as possible. To spice things up, there are also wildcard questions throughout the deck, a couple "dig deeper" cards, and more.

36 Questions 

Next up, boost your intimacy with the 36 Questions in Love game. Interestingly enough, these questions were first used as part of a study on creating closeness between people. Six months after the study, two of the participants got married, leading to whispers that the game could make people fall in love. Why not put that theory to the test for yourself?

The website has the original 36 questions as a click-through game that you and your partner can play together. To play the game, one of you has to read out the question, and then you both answer it. Switch roles for the next question, and so on. Starting off with light and fluffy inquiries, the questions get deeper the more you delve into the game. 

Our Moments: Couples Edition

Sparking interesting conversations and learning more about your partner doesn’t come much easier than the Our Moments: Couples Edition game. Each card has a conversation starter that needs more than a one-word answer. For example, one question is, "If we could quit our jobs, what would we like to do?" To get started, take a card, read it out, and let the deep talking begin. There’s no time limit so you can keep going or move to the next fast.

Truth or Dare for Couples 

When was the last time you played truth or dare? Chances are you haven’t given this one a whirl since your teenage sleepovers. Why not resurrect the game and play it with your partner? Truth or Dare for Couples is literally what it says on the tin. Packed with flirty and sexy questions, the cards are a fun way to pass the time. Pick "dare" and you’ll get a naughty little challenge to complete with your partner. Ready player one?

Uncommon Questions 

Think you and your partner have covered every conversation topic? Think again. Uncommon Questions is a pack of 150 conversation starter questions, each of which is completely original and uncommon. The idea is simple: to start up new and interesting talks with your partner no matter how long you’ve been together.

The game rules are easy. Shuffle the pack and then draw a card. Read it aloud and let the conversation begin. Starters include "What goals are you proud of seeing your significant other achieve?" and "What is your favorite silly thing to argue about with your significant other?" Get started and the conversations you have may just surprise you. 

Card Games

Machi Koro 

No time to spare? Machi Koro is a fast-paced card game that is perfect for a date night treat. The aim of the game is to build a city and complete all of the top landmarks before your partner does. When it’s your turn, roll a die or two dice and see what landmarks or buildings you can create. But, beware! Sometimes your roll can help other players. The first one to erect all of their landmarks wins the game. Ready, set, go!

Jaipur

On paper, a two-player trading game where you assume the roles of merchants in Rajasthan sounds like a yawn-fest. But make no mistakes, Jaipur is a two-player, fast-paced card game that gets uber competitive quickly. To get started, each player is dealt a hand of five cards and a deck of five cards is laid upright. 

The cards are either tradable commodities or camels. On your turn, you can do one thing: pick a new card, swap cards from the deck, or sell your wares. However, there’s a twist, the more a certain commodity is sold, the less valuable it becomes. You’d better act fast if you want to score the most points and win the game. 

Monopoly Deal 

Don’t have time for a full game of Monopoly? Try this mini card game instead. The aim of Monopoly Deal is to collect three complete property sets by trading with the deck and your partner. That may sound easy but along the way, there are debt collectors, deal breakers, and forced deals—all of which will mess up your plans. Deal the cards and take it in turns to make your move. Who will be the ultimate property buyer and who will lose?

Codenames Duet 

While some couples love competing for the top prize, others enjoy working together. Should you and your partner fall into the latter category, Codenames Duet is an engaging, collaborative game you can play on your next date night. The aim of the game is to work as a team and figure out who the 15 agents are on the table.

To get started, you lay 25 agent cards face down in a 5x5 grid. Then you or your partner will read a one-word clue and place their finger on the agent they think it’s alluding to. If they get the answer right, they can take the next turn and find the next agent. You will need to collectively find all of the agents before the time runs out. Go!  

DIY Games

Cinematic Synonyms 

Have you seen Away Woman? How about Emerland Story? If these movies aren’t ringing a bell, there’s a good reason. They are cinematic synonyms. You take a famous flick and swap the title for words that mean the same thing. For example, Gone Girl becomes Away Woman and Green Book becomes Emerald Story. 

To play this game, both you and your partner should write down a few synonyms based on movies you love. Next, take it in turns to quiz one another and see who can get the correct answers. You can keep score or not—it’s completely up to you! 

Two Truths and a Lie

How good is your poker face? Two Truths and a Lie is a classic word-play game that puts your fibbing skills to the test. Take turns being the teller to get started. When it’s your go, come up with two true statements and one lie. For example, you might say, "I'm 36 years old. I am taller than my brother. And I have a heart tattoo." Your partner will have to guess which statement is a lie. So, how well do they really know you?

Scavenger Hunt 

Surprising your partner with gifts is a great way to keep things fresh. But why not add a twist? If you’ve got something to give them, you can make a scavenger hunt in your home. Start by hiding the gift somewhere in your house. Then, write a series of clues that will lead your partner to the hidden treasure. The more creative you are, the better the game!  

Boredom Bingo! 

Heading out for a date night stroll? Why not mix things up by playing some Boredom Bingo! with your partner? Start by writing down eight things that you are likely to see on the walk. You might pick a streetlight, a cat, a poster, a rogue glove, a red car, a family, and a green door. Then cut out the answers and draw four each out of a hat. 

When you have your four things, make a small bingo card and write them on the grid. As you’re out walking, you will each need to keep your eyes out for whatever is on your card. Make sure you tell your partner when you see an item and check it off. The first person to check off all of their bingo items is the winner. 

21 Questions 

Finally, 21 Questions is one of the easiest games you can play and you don’t need anything to get started. Take it in turns with one of you thinking of a thing, person, or place. When you’ve got something in mind, your partner has to ask you a series of questions to which you can only answer "yes" or "no." If your partner can guess what you’re thinking before you’ve answered 21 questions, they win the game. If not, you’re the champion!  

Charlotte Grainger

25 Fun Outdoor Date Ideas to Get You Out of the House

 Tired of staying indoors and with the same old “Netflix and chill” routine? Then think outside the box with these 25 fun outdoor date ideas that are guaranteed to give your dating repertoire a real breath of fresh air. From riding bikes to hitting up a concert, there's something for everyone below.

Here are our picks for the best outdoor date ideas for any couple.

1.Go on a Hike

If you’re looking for an outdoor date idea that’s bound to hike up the fun, strap on your hiking boots and head to a local trail. Not only will you and your date get to enjoy the beauty of nature as you get to know each other, but you're also choosing a healthy activity that works up as much sweat as it does conversation. ??

2.Visit a Farmers' Market

Another outdoor date idea that will leave a good taste in both of your mouths is to go to a farmers market. You’ll be able to walk around to the different stands, try samples, and possibly find your new favorite fruit, hummus, jam, or vegetable. And as you get to know each other’s food preferences, you’ll be better able to determine if you have a preference for each other. 

3.Participate in a Charity Walk

If you’re looking for a fun date idea with benefits that go beyond the relationship, signing up for a charity walk/run is a winning choice. Whether you and your date decide to walk, run, or jog during the event, you'll start out any potential relationship knowing that you're making a difference. 

4.Go to the Beach

An additional outdoor date idea that’s nothing short of fun is to put on your bathing suit, sandals, and sunglasses and head to the beach—just don’t forget the sunscreen! There’s a seemingly endless list of enjoyable activities that you can engage in at the beach, whether you sign up for surf lessons, go boogie boarding, build a sandcastle, play beach volleyball, or simply soak up the rays as you get to know each other in new ways.

5.Visit an Amusement Park

Going to an amusement park with your date can help you show off your inner-daredevil as well as your fun personality. In fact, if you consider yourself a thrill-seeker, this type of date is bound to get your heart pumping with someone who may turn out to be your sweetheart in the future. However, if roller coasters and scary rides aren’t that appealing to you, don’t forget that there are theme parks geared toward a younger audience that are still full of fun rather than full of fear. 

6.Plan a Picnic

If you’re looking for an outdoor date idea that’s both fun and relaxing, having a picnic with your date is a great way to get to know each other in a comfortable setting. You can make it a potluck picnic where you each contribute different parts of the meal, or you can simply stop on the way to the park or your rooftop for your favorite takeout.

7.Go to an Outdoor Sporting Event

If you’re looking for a date idea that’s packed with action and fun, then heading to an outdoor sporting event is a home run of a choice. After all, you get to spend time with each other in an energetic and exciting atmosphere. And not only will you be able to cheer on your team, but you’ll also be able to see if you and your date work well as a team.  

8.Go to an Outdoor Concert

For a date that’ll be music to both of your ears, go to an outdoor concert. While there are countless outdoor venues and amphitheaters to choose from, you can also find free concerts in parks, at piers, and at outdoor fairs for more local charm. Not only will you and your date get to enjoy live music, but spending time together in this way will help you determine if you “harmonize” well as a potential couple.   

9.Go to a Drive-In Movie Theater

If you've never been to a drive-in, take this as your opportunity to go. You can bring snacks and drinks, and don't forget a blanket to snuggle up, of course. 

10.Sit Around a Fire Pit

Find your nearest fire pit and light a bonfire. Conversation around a warm fire is super romantic, and offers the chance to get cozy. You can bring drinks and snacks, too.

11.Go Swimming

If the heat is so sweltering that you hardly want to venture outside, head to the lake or a local pool. Taking a dip should spark some romance. Bring snacks and drinks to make a day of it.

12.Go to a Winery

If you have a winery nearby, take the trip. Wine tasting is sure to boost your mood, and you can take home a bottle of each of your favorite.

13.Sit on a Restaurant Patio

Scout out the best restaurant patio in town and make it your home for the afternoon. You'll catch some rays between drinks, food, and great conversation.

14.Take a Day Trip

If there's a destination nearby that you've always meant to check out, do so with your date. Whether it's a trip to a nearby city or state park, the drive is a great time to bond and listen to each other's favorite music. Don't forget to snap lots of photos, too!

15.Go to the Zoo

If you have a zoo nearby, go and visit the animals. Their antics will surely create easy conversation. Many zoos will even allow you to adopt an animal (your funds will go toward their care), in case you want to do so with your date.

16.Watch the Sunset

There's something so romantic about watching the sunset together. Head to your favorite spot—at the beach or a vista point—or park yourself at a restaurant with a view to soak in the last rays of the day and chat.

17.Go Fruit Picking

Go out and pick your favorite fruits of the season at a nearby farm. Back at home you can bake apple cobbler or whip up blueberry pancakes together to enjoy the fruits of your labor (sorry, we had to).

18.Go to an Outdoor Festival

Check your city's calendar for any outdoor festivals, and then head to one with your SO. There are typically drinks and live music involved.

19.Grill in the Yard

If you have a backyard or balcony, put it to use by getting the grill going. You can whip up burgers, corn on the cob, and more to create a feast for your date. Plus, you'll save some money versus going out to eat.

20.Go for a Bike Ride

Head to the nearest bike path for a leisurely bike ride with your S.O. You can take in the sights and chit-chat while getting some exercise, too.

21.Go Mini Golfing

A bit of competitive energy never hurt anybody. Find out who the champion is at mini golf. The loser has to buy the winner a drink.

22.Go to a Rooftop Bar

Take in the sights at a rooftop bar. You can catch a tan and stay to watch the sunset during happy hour.

23.Go Camping

This one takes a bit more commitment, but if you're going to have an outdoor date, why not go all out? Roast s'mores over the fire and spend the night bundled up in a tent while camping.

24.Play Tennis

Who's going to win in a heated match of tennis? There's only one way to find out. So head to a local court for a quick singles match or two.

25.Stargaze

The best way to end the night is by taking a peek up at the stars. Look for constellations and ask each other the much-debated question: Do aliens exist?

Stacey Laura Lloyd

10 Ways to Stop Hating and Start Loving

 When we hate someone, we are not only trying to hurt that person but we are also hurting ourselves. When there is hatred in our hearts, we lose the peacefulness of our minds and the joy of our souls. We can’t also move on with good and normal activities in our lives. Hatred destroys our productivity and opportunity to grow mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.The only way we can stop hating people is to start loving them. However, loving is easier said done. It’s the greatest virtue and even the greatest commandment that God wants us to do. To love is probably the hardest thing to do.If you have decided to stop hating and start loving but find it too hard to begin, do not worry because it’s just normal to struggle to love people, especially those that you think don’t deserve your love. However, whatever type of people you are dealing with, you have to love them. And you can do it by starting to practice the following:

1. Have compassion.

If it’s too difficult for you to stop hating and start loving other people, start by being compassionate with them. You may hate them because you are only thinking and feeling of yourself. Perhaps, you are only aware of your own suffering. If you can only start thinking and feeling the people you hate, you will also realize that they, too, are suffering.If you will only put yourself in their shoes, you will understand their pain and hurting, and your heart will soften. Your heart will open, and that’s how you can stop hating and start loving.

2. Stop being judgmental.

The more you judge people negatively the more you hate them. Stop hating people by focusing on judging yourself rather than judging them. Do self-reflection by finding mistakes in yourself instead of looking for them in other people. When you reflect on yourself, you gain opportunities to discover your own shortcomings, correct them, and be a better person. But when you focus on finding other people’s faults, you only gain frustration.Stop hating and start loving by finding goodness rather than negativities in other people. Do you hate your friend because she said something that offended you? And now you are judging her as a disrespectful person? Why not consider that she’s only being an honest person and is only telling you what is true? Why don’t you consider all the good things that she has done for you for all these years? Why not judge yourself instead? Perhaps, there is something that must be changed in you so you can be a better person.If you can stop judging people, you can also stop hating them. And if you can start finding your own faults to correct them and grow as a person, you can learn to appreciate other people and love them.

3. Be patient.

Love is patient. Hence, you cannot love without patience. Stop hating people by adding more patience to yourself. If people hurt you, restrain yourself from hurting them back. Do not be easily angered and think of revenge. Take note that the more you lose patience, the more you lose love and get hatred in exchange. Thus, if you want to regain your love and get rid of hatred, recover your patience.Remember that it may be hard to be patient, but there is joy in it, knowing that your extended patience will give you more opportunity to enjoy life with the people you love.

4. Do acts of kindness.

Love is kind. If you think it’s time to stop hating and begin loving, do kindness to the people whom you used to hate. If you hate them because they hate you, it’s time to not hate them back. Be kind to them instead of plotting for vengeance. Show the opposite of their hatred. If they are rude to you, don’t be rude to them too. Instead, be kind and polite to them.You are naturally a good and kind person. Don’t let the hatred of other people corrupt your good character. Don’t hate them like what they do to you. If you don’t stop hating, your heart will continue aching. Hence, do even the simple acts of kindness, such as greeting them a good morning, offering them some help they need, talking to them when they need someone to talk to, and doing anything that can make them smile and happy.Kindness is an action. Just do it without expecting anything in return. When you show kindness, the chain of hatred breaks, and love continues to live.

5. Get rid of envy.

Envy makes people feel bitter and insecure. It makes a person hate other people because of what they have that he or she lacks. If the root of your hatred is envy, you have to eradicate it. You cannot love people if you treat them as your competitors.Stop hating others by considering them as your inspirations, not competitors. You should only consider one competitor – yourself. Instead of getting insecure trying to surpass other people, let them be your motivations to surpass yourself.

6. Be humble.

Pride is one of the main causes of hatred. When people are prideful, they feel superior to others. They always think they are always right. They do not admit their own mistakes. They become ignorant and arrogant. And they hate people who will hurt or step on their pride or ego.If you want to stop hating and start loving, learn how to overcome your pride. Be humble. Understand that pride will only cause you pain and suffering. It will destroy your happiness. It will create walls that will separate you from your friends and loved ones. It will stop you from communicating with them. It will produce misunderstandings and more fighting.Embrace humility and accept that you, as a human being, are not perfect and can also make mistakes. Learn how to apologize to people whom you may have hurt. When you practice humility and realize your own mistakes, your hatred transforms into love and your soul evolves into a greater being.

7. Be forgiving.

Without forgiveness, your heart will always feel heavy. Your soul will be imprisoned by the past. You cannot move on to the future. You will continue to hate the person who breaks your heart. You will not find joy in life.For many people, it’s hard to forgive someone. But for some, the act of forgiving is a piece of cake. Forgiving is just actually difficult to practice if one’s heart is full of pride, resentment, and regret.Learn to give up your pride, think of the many good things that the person you hate has done to you, and think of the future instead of the past. If you do them, you will learn how to forgive and move on from the past. You will stop hating and start loving, even if that person is already your enemy.

8. Be selfless.

Loving is a series of selfless actions. You cannot do all the tips above if you are selfish. You cannot be kind, compassionate, humble, forgiving, and content if you are a self-centered person. You can only do them if you learn how to make a sacrifice.To get rid of hatred in your heart, start thinking and caring for others rather than just yourself. Understand that you cannot make yourself happy by hating others because true happiness in oneself is attained by putting your own happiness in the happiness of others.When you sacrifice your own pleasure, you make other people really happy. When this happens, the pleasure you give up is replaced with real joy. Remember that the happiness you get from love is greater and more lasting than the pleasure you get from hating.

9. Be spiritual.

You can easily stop hating and start loving if you will focus on the things that last eternally rather than those that perish in time. Material things like money and expensive cars will only make you envious and hate others. Fame and physical beauty also cause the same.If you want to cleanse your heart from hatred, envy, pride, and the like, you have to focus your life on spiritual things. You have to nurture yourself with spiritual things, such as kindness, compassion, patience, and humility which also strengthen your love.Stop hating people due to issues brought by money, food, time, distance, and other physical things. These things don’t matter when we die. Give more value to things that we can bring in the afterlife, such as our good deeds, friendship, and love.

10. Have faith in God.

If you want to stop hating a friend, a partner, a family member, or even a stranger who is hurting you, pray for them that their hearts and minds will be enlightened to stop hurting you. And most importantly, pray that no matter how people will treat and hate you, you will never hate them back but will only love them and do good to them so that you may glorify Him who is in Heaven.

Control your life

You are responsible for yourself. Your happiness lies not in the hands of other people but in your own hands. God gave you free will. You can easily choose to hate others and make your heart suffer or you can choose to patiently love and fill your heart with everlasting joy. The choice is yours.

Victorino Q. Abrugar