#in terms of... healthier times ahead?

[vitaminseetarot]

Pick a Card: Your Next Upcoming Transformation 🌕🦋

Hey y'all, welcome back for another pac reading for our last supermoon of the year. This full moon is in Taurus, so we are encouraged to step back and focus on resting and self care in between these tumultuous and difficult energies we are currently running through. Every late autumn season invites us to explore how we have transformed over the year and how we are still evolving. This Scorpio season in particular has been very emboldened and expressive as I've seen its presence in everything from neighborhood construction to politics. And while I will avoid making this post too charged, I will use this post as a reminder that I support all marginalized communities who are feeling confused and vulnerable at this time. I hope you find this blog to be a safe space.

Butterfly imagery has been surrounding me, and I was even gifted some butterfly magnets this season. Butterflies represent the soul and its deep transformative abilities. As we release the old, we may be able to spread our wings to be magnets for better times ahead. So I've created six piles to show where and how this process is shifting you to your next chapter.

1. Pink Butterfly - Little Princess 2. Red Butterfly - Inferno 3. Yellow Butterfly - Spirited Yellow 4. Green Butterfly - Willow Hedge 5. Blue Butterfly - Sea of Tranquility 6. Purple Butterfly - Joie de vivre

Pile 1: Pink Butterfly - Little Princess

6 of Pentacles, Queen of Cups; Appreciation, Marquise, Wolf, Grandmother Moonstone "Forgive, not because they deserve it, but because you deserve peace."

Good evening, pile 1. Your next chapter involves balancing your needs with the needs of others. Perhaps for a while, you have been on one end of an extreme when it came to exchanging. You may feel as though you give too much without receiving the equivalent in return, and this realization means that your generous energy is wearing down on you. It could also be the other way around, where you could feel guilty when others give you things because you're not sure how you will be able to return the favor. It may feel easier to lean on oneself than to grapple with paying back such a gift, as you wouldn't want the other person to feel tired too. I'm feeling many hang ups on both ends when it comes to generosity, and this energy may be arising due to the holiday season getting closer. With the Marquise card showing the Libra symbol above the 6 of Pentacles, balance is the emphasis here. Balance is not always an exact 50/50 at the time of exchange. Cycles will come where you may rely on the help of others more, followed by phases where those same people will come to need and appreciate your help. This is balance in a higher order sense, in terms of your lifetime and not just one season.

It could have been that, in childhood, you were given strange attitudes and beliefs on giving and receiving. I'm getting a weird reaction from seeing "Little Princess". Some part of you may want to embody the princess archetype, who lives in abundance and receives adoration. But maybe there were people who used it with a more negative connotation, like saying "bratty princess" or "spoiled rotten princess". This could have been from family, friends, or even ideas picked up from TV. It could have been that others act like they're spoiling you or really going out of their way when they give you or help you with something. It's such a sticky back and forth, and in time it becomes harder to receive or be grateful from such a source of negativity. And now you've been getting this intuitive nudge that healthier beliefs need to be created.

This season is about observing these negative beliefs and reclaiming your feelings of gratitude and generosity, in a sense. Gratitude isn't about settling for bad standards; if you get a bad gift or a good gift out of somebody "spoiling" you, it's not a reflection of who you are but of where they're at in their own journey. If they don't seem grateful for what you do, that's also a part of their own process. Some people won't be able to reciprocate, just as there are times where others will give more than you can give back. You can embody a healthy princess archetype by allowing yourself to receive without guilt, and letting yourself give without exhausting yourself. People above all like to know they're being appreciated, even if the gift isn't perfect, which means you're off the pressure from finding that perfect thing too. It's ultimately the thought that counts, so whatever you give or get, release the burden and enjoy the gift swapping. If you feel others don't appreciate what you do, please understand it's part of their own life to deal with and please give yourself that gift of self-appreciation.

Pile 2: Red Butterfly - Inferno

XXIII Prism, XI Justice; Future, Tear, Lion, Anandalite and Lemon Balm "Try. Make mistakes! Try again. Perfection does not exist."

Good evening, pile 2. You're transforming into a time of life that's filled to the brim with creative passion. There is an overflow of fiery hot emotion in this group, see how the volcano plumes from the lion's head. You may be getting a lot of ideas at this time for what to make next, some of you could be working on a project now but I'm also getting that many haven't started yet and only will when the grand idea comes through. There are two ways I'm interpreting these projects. They could be artistic or writing projects, but it could also refer to the creation process of forming and completing new goals. This group could benefit greatly from making vision boards, especially for what you want to see or do for next year. Interesting enough, this tarot deck has two additional cards and you got one of them, the Prism, which I interpret to mean "everything". This card sits below the Tear card with the Gemini symbol, so you may also benefit from using a notepad to write ideas down as you get them on the fly. I'm hearing that the ideas that make you feel the most will be the most potent when made physical, you are being asked to work closely with your emotions as a creative compass.

Your cards are bright and hot, but must be tempered with cool confidence. You are stepping into a fresh role where you can imagine your visions easily coming to life. I don't have the Moonology deck in this reading but I'm reminded of the Leo card where it says "confidence is your key to success" because it's such a strong affirmation. Your task is to be your own cheerleader to keep the energy and momentum brimming alive. Cause that's the thing about fire: it will eventually burn out if it's not attended to. Cool casual confidence is a firewood coated in fat, it's what starts the fire and keeps it going long. Not every idea will be the great one, but it's important to put down anything that comes to mind. There will always be time, with the Justice card, for sorting and deciding what works and what doesn't later on. You know how you don't edit a story chapter by chapter, but only after the full draft is complete? This goes for anything you work on, even for future plans.

It doesn't seem like it now, but you are moving into a time where you will have the spark and the passion to move your vision forward. Making excited plans about what you will do or make next will put you in a better mindset for starting them. If you're looking at these cards thinking "passion? motivation? I've never felt so depleted, how could this be true?" then perhaps you're now in a space where sitting with your heavier feelings with grace and integrating them needs to be prioritized beforehand. Part of this transformation process into living in a more impassioned state requires small steps. Intuitive freewriting in a journal may help to break up darker feelings into something more manageable, or you may find another healthy creative outlet for dealing with difficult times currently. But if you've been convincing yourself that you can't create because you're in a bad mood, you may in the process of shifting around your perspective so that creating becomes a means to work through the bad mood. Beautiful, incredible things could come from embracing artistic skills from every facet and angle.

Pile 3: Yellow Butterfly - Spirited Yellow

10 of Wands, VII Chariot Rx; Self Love, Brilliant, Unicorn, Golden Topaz and Yellow Rose "Better to regret the things you've done than to regret the things you didn't do."

Good evening, pile 3. Goodness, do I want to give this group a big pat on the back for all you do! Whatever you've been working at over the months, you have been pushing hard! So much so that the end result doesn't even feel all that great anymore; you're just happy for it to be finished so you can take a break. This pile may have a lot of tired students who will be finishing out their semester in the next few weeks and you're excited for the brief moment of rest. You are very bright and intelligent as well as hard working and I feel your transformation involves acknowledging your talents and strengths. Maybe things didn't end the way you hoped for them to, like getting an A- instead of an A+, but you can still congratulate yourself for the effort you put in anyway, because to do so would congratulate you for who you are. And I get that this pile has had to deal with some major disappointments, but sometimes things just don't work out the way we intend them to. Sometimes the teacher just puts down a random grade because they're tired, maybe there isn't a good reason why. It's not worth belittling your own abilities.

Unicorns indicate something spectacular and magical. To see one before you is to see what cannot be easily believed. Next to the abundance card is a sign of great things to come. The Earth symbol in the Brilliant card reminds me of the Wheel of Fortune. At this time, things may feel "cursed" or futile, but a big spin of the wheel is due to come during your next evolution which may propel you to a different octave of luck. And it may not even be luck but rather the positive karma from the work you've done now. Trust that your good intentions and efforts will be reflected back to you when the stars align, but now is a time to pat yourself on the back and give yourself the recognition you need. The Morbid Mirror says "better to regret" but I wouldn't even say that. You don't need to spend any more time regretting the wrong choice on the quiz or that you answered a question awkwardly in a job interview. What's done is done and you don't need to beat yourself up for what didn't work out.

Forgive yourself for not meeting every goal perfectly, and forgive yourself if your energy to keep pushing is waning. This may be a time where you need to focus more on cheering yourself up and resting than trying to figure out what went wrong or how to make it right. Remind yourself of all the times where things have worked out before and affirm your own brilliance. Don't let the silence of today make you think that you don't deserve good things for what you give. Have faith your efforts will be met with great reward down the road. For now, your catalyst to transform involves making peace with yourself and creating opportunities to be happy. Enjoy the little things that raise your spirits up, and take pride in what you've accomplished so far no matter what.

Pile 4: Green Butterfly - Willow Hedge

6 of Swords, I Magician; Self Esteem, Sunflower, Swallow, Ethiopian Opal "The most damning lie you can tell is the lie you tell yourself."

Good evening, pile 4. Your next phase in life involving moving on from a rough chapter in your past. There could have been an event that scarred your sense of trust or elicited deep insecurities, like an audition but not getting the desired part, or a friend group wasn't what you thought it was. You'll be walking away from something that was toxic, whether it be a situation, group, person, or even from something within you like a limiting mindset that has tried corrode your self esteem. The Willow tree is traditionally a tree representing sorrow and loss, so at this time you may feel despondent and unsure of how things will change. But a hedge represents a boundary line between the known and unknown. Please remind yourself that things are meant to change, that from this difficult time a more prosperous time can later come, even if it's not clear now. The Swallow is a sign of hope and optimism showing you that you are meant to shift away into a better time. Do not let yourself get stuck in believing that the way things are is the way things will always be, as that will close doors faster than the wind. The only door you're meant to close is to the past that left you feeling hurt and torn. Soon, upon leaving the chrysalis, you will be able to open the doors to greater change.

The Magician makes full use of the here and now, using whatever they have at their disposal to see their goals through. Just because you don't see fresh flowers blooming doesn't mean the earth isn't ripe for new possibilities. Many plants can be seeded in the autumn that will blossom and grow fresh food in the spring and summer. There is more you can do with what you have now than you think. With the emphasis of wings in this pile, I'm getting that you're at the peak of something. You've risen up and overcome something difficult for which you don't give yourself enough credit. Only a vast horizon filled with potential lies before you, which you can do with however you please. You're not meant to forever stay frozen at the peak, reflecting on the toxicity you left behind, but to glide back down and start anew.

The Sunflower always faces the direction of the sun. So should you turn your attention to what in life makes you feel most good about being alive and being you. This is how you can move on, by making space for what you wish to grow. The Opal card speaks of children and birthing something into being, so however low you feel about yourself now, remember that we are all flying in our own altitudes and that there's always room to expand on yourself as a person. If you feel beat up because you didn't make it onto a sports team, place energy on creating the next opportunity to play at the game. Talk to yourself truthfully and fairly as if your child self is hearing everything because your inner child is the part of you who will help guide you through your transformation. Harness your courage to take the next step forward as in your next chapter you will be in perfect alignment to achieve whatever you wish.

Pile 5: Blue Butterfly - Sea of Tranquility

XV Devil, IX Hermit; Learning, Mazarin Rx, Hawk, Pixie Helpers and Green Aventurine "Just being born, makes you worthy of being here. Let yourself just be."

Good evening, pile 5. Your next transformation is a smooth and steady pace of growth. You're entering into a phase of life where you can exist and embrace the fullness of your life for how it is now, at its best. It's strange to put it like this, but with the Mazarin card in reverse it's almost as though your growth path doesn't actually involving growing in the traditional sense. So during this season you may experience a sense of regression or going backwards, and this is to brush up on old sticky lessons that need to be cleared out. I feel this lesson has to do with the fixation on self-improvement. This pile may be the type to put a lot of time into ameliorating your life and relationships. You could even be thinking about your New Year's resolution when we haven't even yet entered December at the time of this reading, just because you wanna get ahead on your to-do list planned out for next year. However, I'm seeing that your transformation will involve some pulling back and withdrawing your energies to highlight overlooked aspects.

We live in a culture of constant doing, and it makes sense that this feeling ramps up during the end of the year. There could be real engagements that require attention due to real deadlines, but sometimes our brains make up deadlines just for feeling like it makes sense to do so. The Hawk is vigilant, always keeping a sharp eye on every task and detail. For some things, you may have a lot more time than you believe you do in working something out. It's okay to occasionally sleep on something and come back to it. The Hawk also speaks about self-sabotage. Could you be putting unneeded frustration on yourself when maintaining a flexible outlook might help you reach your goals sooner? It's like if you're trying to write a song but you're not sure how to finish it: it make take less time to just put it aside and come back to it instead of straining at the same verse for hours on end.

If, during this regression, you feel lost at what to do, perhaps taking time to meditate or center your mind may be the best course of action, instead of spinning wheels to figure out the next thing. Life is not a neverending to-do list where we're meant to go from one thing to the next right away. Your transformation forward requires compassion for not being where you want to be in the present, but finding space to breathe anyway. Be more discerning with how you use your time and remember that free time isn't wasted time. It's okay if you feel stuck in a certain position, but it'll be easier to rise from that when you let yourself be and avoiding pushing too hard. Within that tranquil state, great ideas and solutions can come. We don't always need to chase for the next great problem to tackle to feel like we're making proper use of the present. There is purpose in the peace and silence of doing nothing. You will transform into somebody who understands the value of resting your thinking mind when it's needed.

Pile 6: Purple Butterfly - Joie de vivre

XIV Temperance, King of Cups; Retreat, Heart, Tiger, Laboradorite and Blue Lotus Flower "Everything is energy and energy never dies; it just transforms."

Good evening, pile 6. This pile is for the intuitive people out there! There is a lot of psychic energy in this group. Your transformation is on an almost imperceptible level, too subtle for those who are not as spiritually inclined. This could involve some kind of moment of awakening or enlightenment, but it may not necessarily be a dramatic one. You are stepping into a more mature and balanced disposition, not the kind of awakening where we suddenly get clued into to the basics of souls and spirit guides, but one that involves a shift on how you view the world as a whole. Joie de vivre means "joy of living" in French, and it refers to having a cheerful and optimistic outlook on life. You may have been working on the heavier aspects of spirituality, like doing shadow work, getting used to the idea that it's how all spirituality functions. But I'm getting a brighter view of seeing things here, realizing that nothing stays the same so that the good can come along with the bad. You'll be shifting into a spirituality that satisfies you with a sense of hope, love, joy, and community.

The Tiger represents opulence, so you may receive an abundance of psychic energy and information during your shift. This could come as automatic intuitive knowing (clairsentience), or through vivid meaningful dreams that provide deeper revelations about people and self. The Temperance card shows that this revelation is not one of fireworks but of a more intrinsic lasting sense of contentment. These are downloads meant to help you see that while spirituality isn't all sunshine and rainbows, it's also not all doom and gloom either. You may be retreating from doing the big bold kind of karmic work over this transformation period, which is okay as there is always a time for doing and not doing, and I really feel with your maturity that you've already done a lot. Now it's time to pull back from the shadow work so to find balance in between the lessons.

The secret to this transformation is non-attachment. Let the events and moments in your day come as they may. You will soon get the sense in your spirit that there is a constant inner joy that doesn't respond to external circumstances even if they're intrusive or annoying. With the unconditional compassion of Pisces, you find that bad situations that come up do not tend to last long when your heart is directing itself towards what you feel love and gratitude for, you won't be able to as easily dwell on the worst parts of the day over the best. And with less dwelling on negative parts of the past means less need to heal those parts. If something falls away, another thing will come to fill the gap. Your regenerative abilities are potent for this next phase of your life. I'm talking like this unshakeable faith in the best outcomes while feeling fine with things even when the outcome is far from ideal. This transformation is a form of wisdom that heals and will continue to heal as you gracefully move forward. Some may mention that you have an aura glow around you, which is your transformation at work.

This reading has not been evaluated by the FDA to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or infection. Please ask your physician before going online.

2024, @VitaminseeTarot ™

[growingstories]

FBI agent Alex

Alex Hayes, a motivated 24-year-old FBI agent, found himself facing an unexpected predicament. It all began in when his obsession with physical fitness led him to the gym, hoping to chisel his body into an enviable specimen of strength. He got frustrated about the slow progress he was making. Alex had heard rave reviews about Eric Mitchell's bars from his fellow gym-goers, boasting that they were the secret ingredient to impeccable gains. Driven by curiosity and an insatiable desire to push his limits, Alex decided to give them a try. Unbeknownst to him, those bars contained a hidden amalgamation of ingredients that would surprisingly lead him down a different path than expected.

The boring hours alone on the road made him eat more of the bars then was recommended. To his shock, instead of transforming into a ripped Adonis, Alex found himself bulking up with an unsightly layer of fat obscuring his once visible abs. This left him torn between his desires for physical perfection and the reality of his new appearance. Struggling to come to terms with his unexpected physical changes, Alex decided to push through, thinking that his gym routine would balance out any unintentional weight gain.

However, fate had different plans for Alex as his grind at the gym gradually came to a halt. A promotion within the FBI thrust him into a stressful office job, forcing him to tackle piles of paperwork and grapple with the bureaucracy of the bureau. The mounting stress led him to seek solace in unhealthy comfort food, which only compounded the issue at hand.

Caught in a vicious cycle of long hours and fast-food lunches, Alex's time for physical activity continued to dwindle. Though he maintained the same food intake, the lack of exercise began taking its toll on his body. As his muscles atrophied and his waistline expanded, he watched with a heavy heart as his definition was replaced by rolls of fat.

Seemingly defeated, Alex embraced an unhealthy sedent lifestyleary further exacerbated by the habits of his colleagues in the FBI, he found himself embracing the dreary existence of his fellow agents. Instead of regular workouts, his days were punctuated by indulging in sugary donuts offered by the office's generous supply.

The crisp lines of Alex's once athletic body had been replaced by softness, a testament to his lack of discipline and commitment. He had not only let himself down but had also abandoned the very ideals that drew him towards a career in law enforcement. Concluding that enough was enough, Alex realized he needed to reclaim his identity as a capable agent.

With renewed determination, he gathered his strength and embarked on a journey to regain control of his life. He traded the monotonous office lunches for healthier alternatives and dusted off his sneakers, promising himself to hit the gym regularly once again. The road ahead was tough, but Alex knew that with perseverance and the will to rise from the ashes, he could reclaim his former glory. And so, armed with a newfound dedication and a burning desire to thrive, Alex set forth on his mission. With each passing day, he slowly chipped away at the layer of fat that had masked his once-toned. physique His colleagues, witnessing his unwavering discipline, began to draw inspiration from his transformation, joining him in his pursuit of a healthier lifestyle.

As the days turned into weeks, and the weeks turned into months, Alex's body and spirit gradually returned to it’s former glory and even better, although, he never got his six-pack abs back.

[mazeinthemiroh]

hey!! idk if you’ve already done this but could u do something like skz as ex’s? cause i think chan would be the type of ex to be friends after the break up (unless you’ve done something really bad) and i’d like to know how you think the other members would be

- 🦭

stray kids as ex boyfriends

genre: headcanon; hurt, angst

word count: 1.3k

warnings: cursing, jeongin's hurt the most (gotta warn yall <///3 )

thank you for requesting! please like and reblog if you enjoy <3

bangchan

the friendly one

this is purely depending on circumstance because if you hurt him or any of his members in any way he's literally cutting you off and out of his life

but that is if the situation is severe

most of the time he likes ending on good, mutual terms if possible. he knows things aren't going to be completely the same or aren't going to be particularly smooth but he's willing to work past that

especially if you have been a good friend before dating each other

so he will make an effort to talk to you at social events if you're in the same friendship group. just a casual catch-up to see how you are doing

it might be hard seeing you without being able to be the same touchy, loving way he's used to. he feels he has to hold himself back quite a lot

i can see him being hurt if you have moved on and are in another relationship and he isn't

minho

the messy one

feelings are... complicated

and minho is too

he's a very intricately formed human being, filled with unpredictabilities and chaos, good and bad.

minho as an ex can be messy. you'll see him sometimes during social gatherings; he will avoid you most of the time, but occasionally interact with you as if you're his best friend

he'll be sarcastic and make snide remarks with that shit-eating grin on his face

sometimes he'll lure you back into his life, his heart

other times he wants to forget he's even known you

you guys are on and off and on again. the wannabe ross and rachel, if you will

but all of the craziness boils down to the fact that he misses you, more than he expected

and the only way to fill the hole in his heart that you left him is by chasing what you had together

changbin

the self-improvement one

changbin tries to move on as quickly as possible

he thinks it's healthier that way: no point in dwelling in the past when he knew he wasn't going to turn back to you

he needed to put the past behind him and focus on himself

which means a lot more working out, more than he had ever done before

eating healthier, going out more and with different people, making sure he had enough rest

his friends were worried, at first, that he would over-do it, perhaps burning himself out in order to deflect the feelings of loss you left him

but he's never felt better as he looks ahead rather than dwelling on what once was

still, there are moments, perhaps when he is alone, where he catches himself missing you. your laugh, your smile, your body to hold at night. yeah, he missed that a lot...

hyunjin

the one who's still in love

it would be hard for hyunjin to move on

whether you hurt him, or he hurt you, or you both end on good circumstances, he's not ready to leave you

life without you? well, up until now he hasn't even begun to imagine life without you. and why should he? he thought you'd be together forever

so now he's devastated, trying to forget you when really you never left his mind

oh and he'd write poetry about. lots and lots of poems about the heartbreak and the longing and everything in between. he's a wistful guy, and it's a way of coping with the loss of you

but it's not very... 'coping' of him. coping would require him slowly but surely moving on

but he doesn't do that

no. instead, he holds on to the memory of you and what could've been.

jisung

the one who keeps coming back

he knows he shouldn't, but he can't help it

oh he tries, but soon he finds himself staring at your number on his phone screen, tempted to drop you a text or even, at times, call you

it's weird. he thought he'd be fine after the breakup. he thought he would be able to have his moment to grieve and then move on

but if that was the case... why was he still thinking about you?

that's a question that tortured his mind to no end because he had absolutely no answer for it

he couldn't like deeper inside himself to realise he still, ultimately, has feelings for you

and so he always ends up coming back into your life, usually by accident

he calls it manifesting but is it really manifesting if its at the worst moments?

like when he bumped into at the supermarket, running on 0 hrs of sleep with eye bags bigger than his eyes. yeah, that wasn't a good day

but any chance he runs into you, there is a flicker of hope you could end up back together with him. so he will take all the chances life throws at him

felix

the sensitive one

similar to hyunjin only, perhaps, less severe

he cries over you often

and everything seems to remind him of you

sometimes he is okay. sometimes he is really okay. perhaps too okay. the members would look at him in surprise as he woke up one day, bubbly as ever. it's as if he hasn't been crying the whole week at all. nope. he's a new man now. and when he looks in the mirror, he gives himself a smile and a nod. "today is a new day and i'm happy."

and then a small thing will set him off all over again

perhaps he will find one of your hoodies that you lent him one night when he was cold. and he kept it because it smelt like you

but now, seeing this makes all his newfound positivity dissolve instantly. soon, he was grabbing the material of your hoodie and stuffing his face into it, sobbing his heart out

seungmin

the nonchalant one

he's the definition of unbothered

of course, it hurt at first to have to leave you, but it will all depend on the circumstances of the breakup

if you guys left each other on bad terms, he'd be a lot more bitter about it. he will most likely ignore you and make every attempt not to run into you because he just doesn't need that in his life

but if you guys are on good terms he is more likely to get over it quicker. that way, he isn't dwelling on the bad feelings and being wrapped up in his own negativity

rather, he has left that all behind and tried to be productive, focusing on himself

that way, if he happens to run into you again, he would probably feel indifferent

there is a sparkle of feeling that he misses. the feeling of familiarity that only you bring

but he hopes that most of his feelings are long gone noe

jeongin

the one that wants to forget

perhaps you were his first love

perhaps he thought that you'd end up together, forever

and ever

and ever.

perhaps he was a bit naive when it came to his approach to his relationship with you. he knew he shouldn't be thinking in such a rose-coloured, idealistic romantic way. he didn't think he'd feel like that at all. but you made his life infinitely better

and now you're gone. how is he supposed to cope?

he just wants to forget everything. forget his life with you. because if you weren't in his life anymore, what was the point?

its painful to reminisce so he makes a conscious effort not to dwell on the past

because once he does, he loses himself. the tears start to brim and flow down his cheek

if he didn't remember such happier times, it wouldn't be this hard

skz taglist: @hearts4sungie, @seokshineswiftie, @alyszaen, @jtrstp, @a-wandering-stay, @hyungenie5

[xoxo-ren-xoxo]

ace/aro-spec convexian cannibalism headcanons

this is what it says on the tin!! I'm basing this loosely off of my convexian cannibalism oneshot fic series, where the fics all sort of slot into the same "universe"

CW: discussion of sex, starvation and cannibalism ahead

SO, I think that Cub, Scar, and Grian are all ace/aro-spec (and autistic but that's not so important here) in my au universe. And I find it fun to explain so I am going to do so.

Note: I am aroace-spec, autistic, and polyam and I am projecting hard. No hate please. Don't like, don't read! ^-^

Grian

An asexual who doesn't particularly seek any kind of sex but is down for whatever if the right person (ahem. Scar) comes along

Way more into sensation-seeking than actual sex acts

His Watcher Powers (TM) make it a lot easier for him to handle pain, after the first few minutes of getting cannibalised his mind drifts off and it all becomes more about Feeling than Pain

He's also accidentally hacked his bird instincts to be kind of into the whole 'being perfect prey' thing

But he doesn't like to mix sex and cannibalism, that makes him uncomfortable - roleplaying as prey or whatever is more like a signal of trust and weird intimate comfort

He likes to 'switch off' his overactive and often stressed brain and just act as prey / food for his partners sometimes - it is a very good de-stressing technique

His Watcher instincts enjoy being the one to Do Cannibalism every so often - this is how he feeds (pretty much only on Scar)

He finds the thrill / adrenaline and sensations of The Cannibalism (TM) really fun, and a way to be intimate without sex

He is not aromantic, but he get embarrassed by most romantic acts

However he will say "I love you" to his partners as a response to them saying it... usually he's not the one to say it first

Scar

Both aro and ace-spec

He has to really really get to know someone before he starts 'falling for' them, and hates the idea of sex with someone he isn't very close to

He's known Cub for a long time and they have a Vex Bond (TM)

With Grian, Third Life really sealed the deal for Scar (though he had a bit of a crush for a while) - he would Vex Bond (TM) with Grian if he could

He's very bad at acting on his feelings, so he waits until someone else says something (usually)

He is, however, outwardly flirty and makes (sometimes unintentional) dirty jokes

He enjoys sex but doesn't require it. It's just another fun thing he can do, alongside the cannibalism. They are very similar to him in terms of enjoyment.

He's also a bit of a masochist, willing to go through a lot to make his partners happy (he has been eaten many times) (and it hurts a lot, but he kind of enjoys it)

Despite the masochism, he still respects his partners' discomfort with sex, and can usually channel the pleasure into something non-sexual if they ask. This usually manifests as vex instincts going kind of crazy

When it comes to cannibalism, Scar is a vex and therefore has to eat other players to survive. He used to starve himself until forced to attack and feed, but after Grian offered to help him, he gained a healthier relationship with feeding

His vex nature comes out when feeding, and he especially enjoys inflicting slow deaths (torture makes vex brain go brr) as well as nesting and 'storing' prey (keeping Grian in a nest for a few days before the cannibalism begins)

He's the most eager to say "I love you" and is very outwardly affectionate. He gets excited to show his love since he feels it quite rarely

Cub

Aroace and has sooo much autistic rizz (well. they all do)

He's mostly grossed out by sex and doesn't want it anywhere near him. Though he finds Scar's innuendos very funny and once in a blue moon he will be down for some messing about

It takes a very special kind of person for him to actually 'fall in love' and he doesnt tend to say "I love you" to many people

Most of the time he seems kind of dry and unemotional but on the inside hes got a lot of feelings

Those emotions show when he gets excited ("LETS GOOOOO") but usually even when happy he seems quite neutral

Grian and Scar are his special people, but even then, Cub is rather awkward with affection and finds it hard to understand his own feelings

With Scar, the Vex Bond (TM) is like a QPR, which helps Cub understand things, but after he and Scar began 'hunting' (see: asking nicely to cannibalise) Grian together things got more complicated and he was hit with an unexpected crush

Which was scary and unexpected because Cub never feels that way about anyone aside from Scar

'Vexes hunt in pairs' is a thing - it makes their instincts very happy and strengthens the Vex Bond (TM)

Cannibalism definitely also helps him get his feelings across without having to talk

Scar was a born vex but Cub was human-turned-vex, and Cub was always quite nervous about the cannibalism thing (so was Scar, but he played it off)

To keep him from starving himself, Scar offered to feed Cub, which Cub accepted reluctantly, but after Scar and Grian's arrangement was established in early season 9, Cub was quickly introduced into the fold

Cub wants to say "I love you" to Grian, even though he doesn't say it often at all

^ It must be made clear that he isn't feeling pressured into saying it, he's just very scared of the words and wants to overcome that fear (as he did with Scar) - it feels strange to admit he loves someone, because it happens so rarely and he feels very strongly about his aroace identity. But he has to come to terms with the idea that he can have love for his special people while remaining solidly aroace.

He also likes the feeling of Grian's feathers #autisticking

[clangenrising]

Maaan this piece... this piece. The interaction between Scorch and Fogpaw. Absolutely phenomenal.

I think it's the first time that someone in RisingClan has been willing to interact with Scorch through her own worldview instead of trying to convince her it's wrong, and it seems to be a much more effective way to reach her. Because Goldenstar might be able to say "that's not the way things work here, not everything is a transaction, I give to you without necessarily expecting anything in return, I give to you because I love you for you," and while it's deeply important for Scorch to hear that, I think that right now, part of her is just going to write it off as naivety, as Goldenstar not understanding the way the world "really" is. But then there is Fogpaw. Who has lost much already, but is still innocent in other ways. Fogpaw who is willing and eager to learn from Scorchplume, and who doesn't really understand what Scorch's transactional worldview means when applied broadly, but is willing to speak to Scorch in those terms. So when Scorch says, "hey, I could betray you too," she is trying to teach Fogpaw that NOBODY is safe, not even her, because giving anyone your complete trust lets them have too much control over you. But then there is Fogpaw's reply: "if everything is a transaction, if everyone is just trying to get ahead, then in fact I CAN trust you because you would gain nothing from betraying me. By your own rules you are safe for me to trust because I have nothing to take away. I'm just a kid." (Thats my interpretation at least). It's a reply that so deeply displays Fogpaw's innocence, the fact that she doesn't conceptualize all the ways in which an adult could stand to gain from manipulating a minor, but she is speaking to Scorch in terms that actually get through. It's a much more effective way of telling Scorch "I trust you completely, I know you won't hurt me" than just coming out and saying that. Idk maybe I'm just babbling but it got to me. And think that in training Fogpaw, Scorch is unwittingly beginning another part of her healing that is so, so vital to developing a healthier worldview. I love them and cannot wait to see what is next for them.

50 RisingBucks for a spot on character analysis!

I love how you phrase that, "giving someone your complete trust gives them too much control over you" like Fuck! Thats Scorch in a nutshell! It wasn't really conscious when I was writing it but you're so right, the fact that Fogpaw buys in to Scorchplume’s transactional world view but still says "I have no reason not to trust you" is so much better at reaching her than what Goldie says. Its so interesting, I love it

[solarbird]

Let’s talk a little about the recently-noticed hatred of in vitro fertilisation coming from Trump’s MAGA base, because while it’s being treated as new, it’s not actually new. It’s only recently risen back up to visibility – ahead, even, of their hatred of contraception – thanks to Trump’s success in overturning Roe v. Wade using his Republican-packed Supreme Court.

I’ve seen a lot of people publicly wonder why the Christofash are so against IVF, given that their whole procedure is about “more babies,” and they say they actually want “more [white] babies.” I’ve also seen people suggest that it’s solely about controlling women, and, well, of course that’s kind of true, because so very very much of what they do is about control over women.

But while there is some “separating procreation and sex is bad” thought out there – particularly amongst far-right Catholics – it’s actually far more consistent than that. At least, in its origins and early discussion.

It is, in fact, the direct result of them finding out more about IVF. They found out that multiple eggs are fertilised at once, with the most apparently healthy being implanted, and the others kept frozen. They then asked themselves a couple of… I hate to say it, but reasonable questions:

If every fertilised egg is a person, why doesn’t that apply in cases of destroyed fertilised eggs left over from IVF treatments? Why aren’t we condemning the destruction of human life that happens as part of IVF?

If you hold their professed beliefs – and some of them actually do – then the answer is obvious. They naturally then came to that obvious conclusion, one that’s entirely reasonable for those who have decided against all reason that a fertilised egg is in fact an actual whole person. They decided that yes, this is the same thing, it is a person, and no, IVF should not be allowed in its current form because yes, it is murder.

All of this is, again, nonsense. But it’s a rare bit of consistent nonsense from them, and you can see how it follows from a certain point of view.

And as they came to this conclusion – some decades ago now – they knew it would be impossible in the near term to even approach it, politically. Certainly not with Roe v. Wade the law of the land, which even to those with a focused interest in IVF was a far, far bigger issue to tackle.

Besides, the people involved in this – the Beverly LaHaye crowd were involved, but not just them – actually did empathise with people trying to have children. The goal, that was fine; the method, however, was not.

So they started a campaign to try to “save” what they started calling “snowflake babies.” It was a campaign, a recruitment effort to find volunteers who would have these leftover zygotes implanted, and then carry them to term as their own. Married heterosexual women only need apply, of course – their secondary worries about IVF included thoughts that it would somehow let THE HOMOSEXUALS have children, and they were, naturally, stridently opposed.

But honestly? If someone wants to get pregnant with a leftover IVF-fertilised egg, great! Go for it. I hate the whole “married heterosexual cisgendered women only” part of course, but the rest? It’s fine! Knock yourselves out.

At the time, it almost sounded like them trying to take positive action themselves for once, rather than just driving hate against others. I even allocated a little bit of hope that maybe it marked the beginning of a healthier trend.

Alas, it did not. But at that time, it couldn’t be ruled out.

Regardless, none of this ever went away. Bush II threw them a token amount of money in his first term to promote the idea, there are some small organisations still promoting “embryo adoption,” and the term “snowflake babies” still shows up once in a while.

Really, though, they see it as a stopgap, or even harm reduction. At its core, their fight is still to define every fertilised egg as a full human being with not just full rights, but more rights than anyone carrying it.

So those aren’t backup or redundant fertilised eggs, those are “snowflake babies,” and therefore cleaning the dish containing them is murder – no matter how many actual, real new parents and actual, real new children IVF procedures help create.

Accordingly, IVF must go, for the heartache of would-be parents pales to nothing next to the God-given inalienable rights of…

…a single frozen cell in a dish, which matters ever so impossibly more than any real child ever could matter to any of them.

Now you know how they got here, and you know that this isn’t a fad, and that it will not be something they easily give up. And since this whole line of thought is absolute batshittery to anyone not buried deep in the inner nooks and crannies of their bizarre cult, hopefully you have a better idea how to use this particular bullshit against them.

Good luck out there, and good hunting.

75 days remain.

[thelampisaflashlight]

This is a bit of a doozy, so it's going under the cut, but I felt like venting a little so... yeah.

I decided to quit drinking back in August, because a family member of mine had a traumatic accident as a result of their own struggles with alcohol... and I was the one to discover them and have to perform first aid.

This was not the first time they injured themselves while under the influence, this wasn't even the first time it sent them to the hospital.

And it made me stop and seriously reevaluate my relationship with alcohol.

I won't lie and say it's been easy to quit, even if I haven't touched the stuff in weeks now, I still crave it and the way it made me feel, but a lot of that comes from using it as a coping mechanism.

The term I would use here, really, should be "self medication".

It's not a secret that I have struggled with my mental health over the years, it's hard to hide something that is blatantly obvious, I mean, come on now.

But even I have to admit that alcohol should never have been a crutch for me.

It has been... interesting, I guess.

Trying to handle things like my anxiety and depression in healthier ways.

Being more active, engaging more socially, and being honest about where my head is at.

And I'm very lucky to have friends who are supportive, and whose first instincts when I told them I had quit was just to ask how they could accommodate/help me moving forward instead of judging me.

There's still a long road ahead, and I don't know what the future will bring, but I'm trying.

I want to keep trying.

So, yeah.

That's the biggest life update I can give.

[investmentassistant]

Reasons to praise yourself

In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often overlook the importance of self-appreciation. Celebrating our achievements, no matter how small, can significantly boost our morale and mental well-being. Here are some compelling reasons to take a moment and praise yourself.

Accomplishing goals

Whether it's completing a project at work, sticking to your exercise routine, or finally decluttering your home, achieving a goal deserves recognition. Accomplishments, big or small, are milestones that show your dedication and hard work. Celebrate these victories to reinforce positive behavior and motivation.

Overcoming challenges

Life is full of obstacles, and overcoming them is no small feat. Whether you've managed a difficult situation at work, resolved a personal conflict, or navigated through a challenging period in your life, acknowledging these triumphs is essential. Praising yourself for your resilience and problem-solving skills can build confidence and inner strength.

Personal growth

Self-improvement and personal growth are ongoing journeys. Maybe you've developed a new skill, adopted a healthier lifestyle, or learned to manage stress better. These efforts towards bettering yourself are worthy of praise. Recognizing your progress encourages continued growth and self-compassion.

Acts of kindness

Being kind to others, whether through small acts or grand gestures, is a trait worth celebrating. If you've helped a friend in need, volunteered for a cause, or simply spread positivity, these actions deserve self-praise. Acknowledging your kindness can foster a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Maintaining balance

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining a balance between work, family, and personal time is an achievement. If you've managed to juggle responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed, give yourself credit. Praising your ability to maintain balance can promote a healthier lifestyle and prevent burnout.

Learning from mistakes

Mistakes are a part of life and learning from them is crucial. If you've reflected on past errors and used them as opportunities for growth, that's a significant accomplishment. Praise yourself for your humility and willingness to improve, as this mindset is key to long-term success and personal development.

Embracing self-care

Taking care of your mental, emotional, and physical health is essential. If you've been prioritizing self-care, such as taking time to relax, eat healthily, or engage in hobbies, you deserve recognition. Praising yourself for self-care practices reinforces the importance of looking after your well-being.

Staying positive

Maintaining a positive outlook despite challenges is admirable. If you've been able to stay optimistic and spread positivity, it's worth celebrating. Praising yourself for a positive attitude can strengthen your resilience and inspire those around you.

Being authentic

Living authentically and staying true to yourself is a significant achievement in a world full of pressures to conform. If you've been embracing your true self, expressing your feelings honestly, and making choices aligned with your values, give yourself credit. Authenticity leads to a more fulfilling and genuine life.

Achieving small wins

Every day is filled with small victories, from getting out of bed on a tough morning to finishing a task you've been dreading. These small wins add up and contribute to your overall success and well-being. Don't overlook them; celebrate these moments to keep yourself motivated and appreciative of your efforts.

Self-praise is not about arrogance; it's about recognizing and celebrating your efforts and achievements. By taking the time to acknowledge your successes, you build a stronger, more resilient, and positive self. So, go ahead and give yourself the praise you deserve — you've earned it!

[thethiefandtheairbender]

hey random aspec writing question: how would you suggest developing a QPR between two characters with different dating histories and general standings on the spectrum?

for specific context character A is more familiar with their alignment with the demisexual/demiromantic lables while character B is only beginning to question their asexuality and realize that what they want in their relationship with A is different than their previous (failed) romantic relationships.

my question is really just asking for any advice on how you might make those conversations happen without being confusing or perhaps unsatisfying to a larger relationship arc. (and i'm asking as someone with absolutely 0 relationship experience of any kind and is still learning about QPRs in general)

You are in luck because not only am I in a long standing QPR, a few years ago I actually wrote an article all about what a QPR is (or can be) and how beautifully fluid the term can be.

The first thing to ask yourself, therefore, is what this QPR means and looks like for the characters choosing to be in it. Does it mean living apart but prioritizing spending time together as partners weekly, monthly, etc? Does it mean raising kids or living together? Is there going to be a physical or exclusive element to the relationship? Etc.

For example, for my QPR, we both do feel some romantic attraction to each other as we're both on the aromantic spectrum, but for me it's particularly sparse (I'm alterous) and my partner is demiromantic, but the relationship is primarily based on emotional compatibility and friendship, with the romantic fuzzies just being like tiny sprinkles on top that we can easily do without. The life partnership element and the romantic element are two distinct different things that are overlapping, but the former is 100% more important than the latter. With that all said, someone else's QPR might work very differently and include raising children but not living together, for example.

The fact of the matter is also that in practice / the outside, there's not much that makes various kinds of QPRs different than a more traditional relationship; it's the interior feeling of the relationship that is different. None of this is to say that a QPR can never be toxic or anything — people are naturally messy and unintentionally bring unhealthy patterns into all dynamics, and any dynamic has the potential for that mess — but I will say that QPRs tend to have some advantages over more traditional romantic relationships.

Because a queerplatonic relationship is normally formed out of emotional compatibility, there's less of an uphill climb to get to those healthier places, rather than chasing attraction and then having to create emotional compatibility and intimacy from there. This might be different if you're 'blind dating' platonically, but most QPRs I've seen are typically formed after years of friendship / friendship in general ahead of time

There tends to be better communication and subsequently less insecurity

Less pressure! While it can be lonely and/or scary to realize you have to create your own relationship model, it can also be really liberating to realize you fully make the rules and can change or toss out whatever parts of more traditional romantic bonds you didn't want or don't want anymore

For your character who's questioning, a lot of what helped me on my journey as an aspec person was being able to compare how I was feeling to the experiences of other out, aspec people, and going "Huh, this kinda matches up??" + talking more frankly with allo (non aspec people) people and realizing our experiences very much did not match up. So Character B having a comparison basis naturally in Character A, and likely some curiosity just as friends (and then maybe for their own self actualization / searching) is a good basis to build from! If it's set in modern day your character also doing research online or elsewhere (maybe your fantasy world is very chill and cool idk) is also an option.

For concrete examples, I have four main recommendations:

For how to write those conversations and what they might look like, as well as what a QPR may look like between people with slightly differing sexualities, I'd really recommend Alice Oseman's book "Loveless" about a first year student realizing her aroaceness. It's very well done, it resonated me a lot as a sex repulsed ace person in particular, and the QPR in the book is very sweet. "Let's Talk About Love" by Claire Kann also features an asexual biromantic character navigating beginning a relationship with someone who is not likewise asexual and has some good conversations about physical intimacy.

Outside the realm of fiction, Ace Dad Advice on Youtube covers a lot of various subjects for ace, aro, and aspec people, including what different relationships, dynamics, and conversations may look like along a variety of spectrums.

When it comes to TV I have two other recommendations:

"Koisenu Futari" (The Two Who Don't Fall in Love) is a Japanese tv show about a man and a woman who become platonic life partners, and it's about their lives as well as being aroace. I have not watched it myself but it seems like a very heartfelt, meaningful depiction and I know it's resonated with a lot of aspec people

Other TV shows such as Good Omens and The Dragon Prince, while having relationships between the two leads be indeed romantic, are also aspec / QPR-esque as hell, in my opinion. Good Omens has a 6,000 year slowburn, bless their souls, but I'll speak more to TDP, since that's what I'm familiar with.

In the first 3 seasons of the show, elven assassin Rayla and human prince Callum go from being enemies to unlikely allies and fast friends and eventually, best friends who are also in a romantic relationship. Before anything else though, they are partners first and foremost, with that part of their bond being highlighted just as much if not more than their romantic angle. From S2 onwards they very clearly see each other as family, and the bond only grows deeper from there. Even once they get together, they still routinely refer to one another as a friend (not a romantic partner) and it's never treated as lesser.

However, I think the biggest QPR vibes happen for them in S4 and S5 (the show is still ongoing) as, after a timeskip during which Rayla left to undertake a dangerous mission alone, upon her return things are... well let's just say Callum has a lot of big feelings about not knowing if she was alive for two years.

But despite the fact they don't totally know what they are anymore, precisely, their unconditional love for each other is apparent in every episode. In spite of his anger, Callum keeps his temper in check, lets her stay, and steps in to help her when she needs support / reassurance without question; in spite of his cold shoulder, Rayla is patient and understanding (if disappointed) and gradually learns more to let him actually help her more with her burdens and issues.

While there's still a romantic undercurrent, the show repeatedly makes it clear that their strong bond and love for each other is not dependent on romantic feelings being acted upon and returned. When Rayla thinks she's been romantically rejected in S3, although Callum is a little awkward, they immediately go back to helping and trusting each other and being a team same as always even before Callum clears up the confusion, doing whatever they can to make sure the person is okay and comfortable.

Even into their continued limbo into S5, they're out here saying shit like "I trust her, unconditionally," "I know that I trust you to help me carry this," "But not everything's changed: I would do anything for you," defending each other from bloodthirsty pirates, and treating one another as family.

And I think that's a core of a QPR, to me. It's "I'm always in your corner, I'll always save you a seat, you are not alone in the world, I am right here with you holding your hand. Build a world with me. An oasis with me. I will be here, always, in whatever way you want me to be." And I think they exemplify that beautifully

That said if you have any follow up questions or want to DM me, absolutely feel free! I'm always happy to talk about this sort of stuff

[don-forever]

Semen Retention Guide

How to quit porn

Written 2022 - 2023

Below is a guide to help you better understand your addiction and help you quit porn for good.

Find Peace. †

-------------------------------------------------

Pre

*Nothing is scientifically proven and is just my experience

*Document subject to change

*I kept track of every relapse for about 6 months to gain data, and recorded my mindset during the first few weeks of retention to better understand addiction and what causes relapses.

How to Start

Planning ahead (in my experience) is more effective than starting immediately. I find that planning ahead gives you time to come to terms with the End. Plan retention 1 week ahead for best results.

Tip: If you keep planning ahead then delaying it saying "I'll do it next week" then it means you dont WANT to get better. Dont lie to yourself. Make your decision certain.

Triggers

Instagram and Other Social Medias (uninstall)

Uninstall instagram for good.

Dont install instagram to text women. It leads to overall desire, which leads to porn use when these desires aren't met.

Uninstall all social medias. The internet has become lusty.

Mindless Socialization

Mindless communication is the act of texting people with the sole purpose of avoiding solitude. Before texting, ask yourself what are you trying to gain from the person you are talking to. Mindlessly texting random people you are attracted to will not fill your void. It will only make you horny which will cause you to masturbate OR will lead to sex, which will turn your porn addiction into a sex addiction (which is way worse). Once the sex stops the porn addiction will return.

Socializing should be pure. In person. Authentic. One must be comfortable and in love with themselves before searching for love outwardly. Socialization should be healthy and not be centered around sex. Socialization should not be used to fill a void.

Some women will not have your best interest in mind and talk about sex even though you are on retention. Beware of this.

To insure your intentions are pure it is best to wait at least a month before texting women to avoid relapse from lust, rejection, or unmet expectations. Or only limit socializations to in person communications.

Explicit Content (stay off explicit sites)

Avoid / Remove anything that can lead to relapse.

Lack of Sleep / Energy

Willpower is exhaustible. Strength is exhaustible. Sleep early / Eat healthy to get the energy needed to withstand the battle.

Most of my relapses occurred 2am - 5am. I should have been sleep.

Boredom (preoccupy self)

When there is too much time on your hands, there is nothing stopping you from masturbating. Exercise, Take walks, Sit with family, Etc. To preoccupy self. Create a healthier routine.

Days where you know you will have a lot of free time, create a schedule or have plans set aside. The less you plan ahead the more likely you will have free time on your hands. The more free time, the bigger the urge to masturbate.

Tip: Plan some things in public. It gets you out the house and out your head. It gives you a sense of what life really is.

First 4 weeks are hardest (in my experience).

Meditate more frequently and pray more frequently. Take walks more often. Be in public more. Sleep earlier. Cold showers. Hobbies. Fight through.

Lustful thought

Lustful thoughts are like seeds.

If you look at one person lustfully, it may not do much. But, as time goes on and you get more horny, that seed will grow into something much more. The more seeds you plant the less likely you are to win.

Keep your mind away from lust or you risk having those same lustful thoughts reemerge in the future when you lack the willpower to overcome them.

Do not think lustfully at all.

A crack in the dam will cause the water to spill in due time.

Keep your mind seedless.

Keep your dam without cracks.

Wet Dreams

Wet dreams do not count as a relapse. Days after wet dreams (in my experience) are some of the best days. In my research I've found that I was most social after a wet dream. I felt a renewal. This may not be true to all people and the renewal may not come after every wet dream.

Side note: When horny do not try to force a wet dream. Do not look at lusty things before bed. It will not lead to a wet dream. It will only plant seeds. Horniness doesn't increase chances of wet dreams. Wet dreams occur on a biological clock (Mine are about once a month). Horniness caused by trying to force a wet dream will only plant seeds. Too many seeds and you will be plagued with horniness and your chances of success when plagued are near 0.

-----------------------------------

EVERY TIME I relapse I write down the specific reason so I can know what my triggers and weaknesses are. I write down my emotions before relapse to better understand what thoughts lead me to relapsing. I also write down the time i relapsed to better understand when I'm more susceptible to failure. I recommend you do the same. It's very helpful.

Sudden Spike

A sudden spike is a random surge of horniness.

Upon these spikes, one must immediately release them in a healthy way.

(Cold shower, Taking a walk, pushups, etc.)

The bible says: "Run from temptation" So upon being tempted, get rid of it immediately.

I found that these spikes only last 10 minutes or less, so stay mindful of that before you do anything drastic.

I also found that

1) constant and consistent exercise, meditation, etc may reduce the intensity of spikes one will have. (Due to the energy that leads horniness being used before it reaches high levels.)

2) the less amount of lustful seeds planted, the less spikes one will have.

Less seeds planted = Less spikes

More exercise = Weaker spikes

Overcome Darkness

Anger, Sadness, Fear, Loneliness, Stress, etc.

Along with sudden spikes you may feel long lasting changes in mood or may be more sensitive to the problems in your life. This is good because one must feel to heal.

These inner demons are a main cause to addictions due to our need to escape pain. I have gotten in arguments and then later that day watched porn. Our mood definitely effects our urge for relapse.

This is very important.

Your mood CAN CAUSE your horniness. If someone irritates you that day it is best to take precautions BEFORE HAND. If you are stressed, upset, angry, etc. it is best to take precautions BEFORE HAND.

You more than likely WILL get horny soon.

Heal.

Incorporate shadow:

Withdrawal causes negative emotions to occur because they can no longer be suppressed by porn use. When these emotions occur you are more likely to relapse shortly after, if you do not pay attention.

Listen to these emotions instead of running from them. Incorporate them into your being.

Fill the void.

Loneliness:

Avoid socializing aimlessly. Horniness leads to loneliness which leads to desire which leads to relapse when desires aren't met.

Find peace in solitude and in the now.

If you do socialize, it should be in person. Face to face. Learn how to be confident. Learn how to be a functioning member of society. Socialize without lust or expectation of something more. Do not use tinder. Do not use social media. In person socialization only.

Reprogram your mind to real life.

Anger / Resentment:

Speak your truth. Leave once truth is spoken. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged. God is with you.

Meditate.

Release expectations.

Heal.

Sadness / Anxiety:

Ask the self "why?". Listen and you will hear the answer.

Last Resort

Before last resort you will be given a choice.

Do not lie to yourself when that time comes.

Masturbate with no porn. (Plan B)

Dont masturbate at all, but IF YOU DO, then do it WITHOUT PORN. Porn is a separate addiction from masturbation, so even if masturbation relapse occurs, a porn relapse doesn't have to happen too.

Porn badly damages the brain and causes addiction to worsen. Porn must include masturbation habit,But masturbation habit doesn't have to include porn.

Still, do not masturbate at all! This Plan B is a very last resort, only to be used by people who dont want to be on retention anymore. You should remain on Plan A if you want more for yourself.

Upon Relapse

After relapse (no porn) reset streak back to 0 and go on another streak.

Do not masturbate again or you will fall back into a habit and eventually start using porn again.

Plan A

Do not relapse regardless of Plan B.

Do not let the plan B give you a reason to give up on plan A. Do everything in your power to not relapse at all.

I feared putting the Plan B in this document at all because some people will grow soft and say to themselves "I'll do the Plan B because i cant make it through A." Those who rely on the Plan B should beware that Plan B may NOT even work. If you are not deep enough / disciplined enough in retention, Plan B will cause you to want to watch porn again in due time.

It is a slippery slope. Once you lost your Plan A streak you WILL LIKELY watch porn again soon because the incentive to keep going is close to zero. A plan B ejaculation has caused me to eventually watch porn because while masturbating i couldn't help but think about porn.

While one half of me believes masturbating with no porn can be a viable strategy, I also believe it is a terrible strategy for an addict. Its comparable to telling a raging alcoholic who is on rehab to drink a beer. Soon that beer will turn into two and those two beers will turn into whiskey again.

So please dont use plan B if you wish to better yourself. Plan B has failed me multiple times.

Stick to plan A with 100% certainty.

Tips

View horniness as a good thing. Something to be proud of. Something to be held on to. View horniness as VITALITY.

Retention with friends can help or hurt you. Their strengths may become your strengths, but their failures may lead to your failures. Choose wisely.

Don't forget your truth. You will lie to yourself sooner or later. Who will win? Who is stronger?

You may experience vivid dreams.

In ancient alchemy, the philosopher's stone is believed to be a substance that can turn lead into gold and turn humans immortal. This immortality, however, was not the end goal, but a necessary step to achieve what comes next. In the same way, semen retention is not the end. It is a means to it. If you treat semen retention as the end goal you will feel your "benefits" leave if you relapse. Use semen retention as a tool to achieve a greater purpose, not as the purpose itself.

When the body begins to fail get it back in order. The mind is harder to fix than the body so do not let the wreckage spread. If your mind fails and you are confused, keep faith. The spirit is harder to fix than the mind. Do not lose your spirit if you lose your mind.

When I quit porn I had no end goal. No set time. I just said "I'm done." If I said "I'll just go one month", then I would relapse eventually because my heart wasn't 100% dedicated to quitting my addiction. You must be ready to 100% give it all up. FOR GOOD. Until then you will constantly fail. Think about all the negatives. Think about what your life has come to. Think about how much worse it would be if you never quit this habit. Think about how great you will be if you quit. Its all or nothing. Small goals will yield smaller results.

The Key

Christ is the only way out of the darkness. Porn addiction is a demonic attack that makes you susceptible to more demonic attacks. The ONLY way to ward off such demons is through a relationship with Christ. Read the bible. Put on your SPIRITUAL armor. It is impossible to quit porn through your power alone. The spirit of God is needed to ward off all spiritual forces.

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand."

- Ephesians 6:12-13

Jesus loves you more than you can ever imagine. No matter how dark your life may feel, and no matter how deep you are in addiction, He loves you regardless. When society rejects you, remember that you are enough for him. He is by your side, and He always will be.

Final

Once the first wall of your defense is broken the rest will break in just a matter of time.

Do not allow seeds of doubt or negativity to seep in. Do not allow your thoughts to stray from the path. Do not question your journey.

Willpower is exhaustible. Without aim, willpower will fail. So, without a REASON to remain strong, the first wall will break. Do not allow your first wall to be broken. Have aim. Have a reason to stay strong. A reason to not fold. Have Something / Someone to fight for. Something to fight towards.

Reach the peak of your existence.

It is your purpose.

Reach for more.

God bless.

Forever.

End.

[kentray]

Ted Lasso S3 predictions

My predictions before the show is aired. Some have been influenced by SPOILERS (but not too much) so that's a warning.

Ted goes back to Kansas to raise his son. Maybe one reason Jason says the story they have to tell is done, is because there might be an epilogue “a few years later”? Because you can't write more to a story if you jump ahead years and people are apart. A rom com type moment? on the top of the Empire State Building?

Rebecca comes into her own as an owner, falling in love with the game, her boys & herself. She lets go of her hatred of Rupert. Maybe apologizes to the team for what she did in S1? She softens & starts to have feelings for Ted (& vice versa).

If they develop feelings in the last episode or two, maybe a kiss and/or an airport scene? But it’s not yet their time. Ted needs to be with his son. Rebecca is NOT a Kansas girl. So therefore, a reunion via an epilogue.

Roy & Keeley endgame. Funnily enough, a break-up could speed things up in terms of their decisions: whether to marry, children, etc. It’s a short-cut to determine “forever”. They both deal with their insecurities & “save” each other.

Roy deals with whatever trauma he’s been holding in. I want this to be brought on by Keeley but I think some is let out in Ep2 with the team? Maybe starts an academy with Rebecca for Richmond. Boys & girls training together; a focus on a well-rounded upbringing.

Keeley continues to run her own company. She faces imposter syndrome, maybe sabotage by someone (Rupert), maybe things fall to pieces & Roy’s right there to help. We get her backstory, finally. Also, Keeley might get to a point where she needs a client & West Ham might be there. She’ll have to face those decisions & maybe a fallout with Rebecca for a time.

One reason I’ve felt Rupert is doing illegal things is 1) the show’s indictment on billionaires 2) I think Higgins & Keeley will discover things about him that ultimately saves and protects Rebecca (re:Sam) & her ownership, which is why I think Keeley may end up willingly or unwillingly working for Rupert (as per the hint in S2). Maybe that Rupert cooked the books OR maybe phone hacking as that was a big thing with Rupert Murdoch’s tabloids in England years ago.

I think Beard will stay in England & coach. Hopefully, he’ll be able to have a healthier relationship. Perhaps a new character will be introduced near the end? Funny thing is I don’t hate Jane. I think she loves Beard but she needs help.

Nate is eventually forgiven. I have no clue if they’ll deal with the repercussions of what he did to Keeley to my satisfaction. He’ll return to Richmond, maybe as an assistant coach. There will be forgiveness but at a cost. I don’t think others can forgive as easily as Ted.

Sam will be an eventual captain whether it’s Richmond or somewhere else. Roy’s been guiding him. Maybe the Nigerian national team? He will find that Richmond is his home. Maybe meet someone? (Forgot that I think he’ll face bigger repercussions, for his Dubai protest and Rupert & Dick Cole will be out to get him with potential racial overtones. Edwin Akufo is also after him.)

Jamie will make the English National team. He’ll repair his relationship with his mother & come to terms with his abuse. He’ll become the team’s biggest cheerleader, as well as biggest supporter of Roy & Keeley as a couple.

Colin comes out which is a big decision. The team is supportive. My craziest theory is that Isaac is his partner but he chooses not to come out. It’s a risk he’s not willing to take. There’s been some hints along the way… could just be best friends but it would be interesting.

Trent writes the book an in-depth sports book about the team’s journey.

[nexusnest]

Stay Fit, Stay Healthy: The Power of a Balanced Diet

The Importance of Maintaining a Healthy Diet to Avoid Illness and Overweight

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to fall into unhealthy eating habits that can lead to weight gain and various health issues. However, being overweight not only affects one's appearance but also increases the risk of several diseases. Therefore, it is crucial to pay attention to your diet and make healthier choices.

Why a Healthy Diet Matters

Prevents Weight Gain: A balanced diet rich in nutrients and low in unhealthy fats and sugars helps maintain a healthy weight. Overeating and consuming junk food can lead to obesity, which is a major risk factor for many chronic diseases. 

Boosts Immunity: Proper nutrition strengthens the immune system. Foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants enhance the body's ability to fight off infections and illnesses. Enhances Energy Levels: Eating a balanced diet ensures that your body gets the necessary nutrients to produce energy. This keeps you active and reduces fatigue.

Promotes Mental Health: A nutritious diet can improve brain function and mood. Certain foods, like those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, are known to support mental health and reduce the risk of depression.

Tips for Maintaining a Healthy Diet

Eat a Variety of Foods: Include a wide range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in your diet. This ensures you get all the essential nutrients your body needs.

Control Portion Sizes: Overeating, even healthy foods, can lead to weight gain. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid eating until you feel overly full.

Limit Processed Foods: Processed and fast foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium. Opt for fresh, whole foods whenever possible.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking enough water is essential for overall health. It helps maintain bodily functions and can aid in weight loss by keeping you full and reducing calorie intake.

Plan Your Meals: Planning meals ahead of time can help you make healthier choices and avoid the temptation of unhealthy snacks and fast food.

Conclusion

Taking care of your diet is not just about losing weight; it's about maintaining overall health and preventing illnesses. By making conscious food choices and adopting healthy eating habits, you can improve your quality of life and ensure long-term well-being. Remember, a healthy outside starts from the inside, so nourish your body with the right foods and stay active!

[ed-recovery-affirmations]

ive been going back and forth about asking this but as someone who never had healthy eating to a healthy approach to body image modeled for me, what does waning the healthfully lose weight look like? ive been considering trying to lose weight for health reasons (my doctor supports me if i choose to or not) but i realize i have no idea how to keep diet and exercise from becoming disordered. thank you for your time

That is a very good question! I'm glad you have access to a medical professional who supports you either way. I'm going to go ahead and put my answer under a cut so that people who find diet advice triggering can choose not to read. The truth is that for many people who've experienced disordered eating, all dieting is a risk and can lead to ED relapse. I was really hesitant about answering this, because I do personally believe in health at every size, and because I do not know your specific medical needs/previously existing medical conditions. However, because as someone who had to be put on a very restrictive diet when I was experiencing terrible GI problems, I REALLY wish I'd had someone to talk me through having to restrict with a previous ED, because it was SO triggering. I truly hope my advice can help, whether you choose to pursue this or not.

I am going to bold something I ended up putting in the end of my written piece, though: If you try still find yourself struggling too hard with your mental health and body image, it's really okay to stop dieting. If you find yourself too hungry, too tired, just too deprived, you can quit. I don't know how you feel about the "health at every size" movement, and I do not know your current weight, nor do I need to ask. All I know is that ANYTHING is healthier than developing a lifelong eating disorder. And I know that you deserve a life in which you feel the best you possibly can, regardless of what that looks like! I personally believe it is okay to be fat. Yes, really. It is okay to be fat. It can be hard, in this world that demonizes fatness, to accept that for yourself, but it is okay to be fat. And it is much, much healthier to be a self-loving fat person than to be someone who self-destructs in pursuit of thinness.

Please take care of yourselves, followers. Know your limits and mind the tags before reading on.

So if you choose to pursue this, first and foremost, make sure you're not cutting too many calories, because you will fuck up your metabolism in the long run. Remember that 2000 (give or take) is considered the MINIMUM for an adult. Many diets recommend 1500 - that is BAD. That is a starvation diet. There have been studies showing this will fuck with your metabolism and health long-term. 2000 is the minimum, and remember that calories have no morality. You may find yourself needing to add more if your exercise plan is particularly rigorous. Remember, giving your body what it needs will make it feel safe. Exercising while going into deprivation mode will trigger your body into starvation mode in the long run.

That leads me into a segue - never let your body feel deprived or starved. This is the gateway to eating-disordered thinking - the idea that you should deprive yourself if your body is not where you feel it "should" be, or that you are displaying moral weakness for feeding your body when it tells you it needs feeding. Use intuitive eating - eat nice and slow, savoring each bite, and absolutely keep eating until your body tells you it feels full enough. Remember, once your body is full, there is nothing wrong with putting away the rest for leftovers!

(And keep in mind - eat until you feel ACTUALLY full, not using ana tricks to make your body temporarily THINK you are full.)

Take joy in cooking and finding new foods! Food is not bad. It is something that we all need and it is natural for us to take pleasure in it, so don't let your eating or food prep experiences become "guilty!" Experiment with nutritious recipes, savoring the journey of finding what you like, and remember, you don't have to force yourself to eat specific foods if you don't enjoy them. I know kale got really big a while back, but it's just not for everyone. (It can also be cooked in different ways - it is VERY difficult to enjoy raw kale.) Now drinking liquefied celery seems to be the new fad diet. You don't have to like that either (I hate celery, myself!) There is no morality attached to eating foods that you hate because the latest fad diet says you have to, and you do not deserved to be deprived of enjoyable food at ANY size, remind yourself of that! Remember that your body does not need to "detox" from food, and that there are a wide variety of foods that can offer you good nutrition. Depriving yourself leads to a mentality of feeling like you deserve to be deprived. Do your research and find what you like.

Remember that healthy fats, carbs, salt, and sugars are necessary nutrients. While your doctor may advise you to somewhat reduce these things, do not trust ANY diet that tries to keep you from incorporating these things into your regular meals. (In fact, you need many of these things in order to properly absorb your vitamins.) Eat complete meals rather than falling to fad diets.

You are human and humans need little treats! If you have a favorite type of "junk food" it will not lead to a healthy mentality to deprive yourself of it completely. Your doctor may advise you to reduce the quantities of these treats and replace them with more nutritious snacks, but a total-deprivation diet is not mentally healthy. Keep your treats. Remember that your worth does not decline at ANY size, and you deserve to have treats here and there at ANY point in your journey. And that's ANY treat. Yes, processed food. Yes, refined sugars. Yes, "empty calories." We all deserve a little bit of our favorite things every now and again, and these foods have no morality. They are not "guilty" or "bad" foods. They're treats. Allow yourself to enjoy them. I also would NOT follow the practice of setting aside one specific "cheat day" where you allow yourself to go ham, followed by more restriction. I'm concerned that could lead to a binge-restrict pattern, fuck up your metabolism, and encourage an unhealthy relationship to guilt and food. Instead, allot yourself these treats in measured amounts throughout your week.

(Also, try to keep from falling into the mentality that you are only allowed to feel joy, pride, happiness, etc once you have reached a certain weight. If you never lose an ounce, you are every bit as human and worthy as a hypothetical thinner self. If you deprive yourself of joy in the process, having no idea how long it will take, you may arrive at your weight goal only to find that you have forgotten how to feel positively about yourself as a person along the way.)

Remember that exercise is not for punishing your body! Try to find exercise that you enjoy. You can take little walks while listening to music. Perhaps you can go swimming, try yoga, or sign up for a dance class. It can be hard to do these things while you don't feel comfortable in your body, but remember that regardless of what anyone else thinks, you deserve to have activities you enjoy at EVERY size. Typical exercise like running and lifting are totally fine, but not everybody likes these things and that's okay. There's no morality to that either. Some people just hate running. Remember that you're trying to create a lifestyle in which your mind and body feel good, a life that you enjoy. So ask yourself, as you exercise - are you doing something good for your body, or are you punishing your body? Your body does not deserve to be punished. (And don't be discouraged if you have to work up to the exercise abilities you want. It doesn't happen overnight.) Oh, and you don't need to exercise excessively after a holiday or a treat! Exercise is not something you use to punish yourself for eating. Eating is a life necessity, not a punishable offense. Remember that.

Allow yourself to enjoy events like holiday parties, birthdays, family events. It can be hard not to struggle with guilt on these days, but you are still deserving of enjoying the treats and festivities at any size. And if well-meaning family members try to guilt you, feel free to let them know that if you wanted their advice, you would ask.

Do not be tempted to punish your body through restriction or painful levels of exercise, even if you don't lose weight as fast as you'd wanted to. Even if you find yourself not losing any weight at all! All bodies and metabolisms are different, and you don't deserve to punish yourself no matter what. These behaviors can create mental health problems and can set you up for serious long-term physical health problems down the line. And you deserve better than that - at ANY size! Keep in mind that you may not end up at the ultimate weight you had envisioned, but try not to become frustrated. Go at it slowly and steadily. Drastic levels of rapid weight loss just do more harm than good. Try to enjoy where you are at every part in the process, and give your body love and appreciation wherever it's at. There is a lot of pressure to want and relentlessly pursue a thin body, but it's not sustainable if you can't be in the moment loving your body along the way.

And finally, if you find yourself struggling with a mentality of guilt, shame, or fear around food, it is okay to go off your diet. If you find yourself too hungry, too tired, just too deprived, you can quit. Yes, really. There can be a lot of stigma or shame attributed to a "failed" diet, but there is nothing shameful about making the right choices to best protect YOUR mental and physical health. So if you try this and still find yourself struggling too hard with your mental health and body image, it's really okay to stop. I don't know how you feel about the "health at every size" movement, and I do not know your current weight, nor do I need to ask. All I know is that anything is healthier than developing a lifelong eating disorder. And I know that you deserve a life in which you feel the best you possibly can, regardless of what that looks like! I personally believe it is okay to be fat. Yes, really. It is okay to be fat. It can be hard, in this world that demonizes fatness, to accept that about yourself, but it is okay to be fat. And it is much, much healthier to be a self-loving fat person than to be someone who self-destructs in pursuit of thinness.

I might suggest you consult with a therapist and nutritionist who might be able to help you monitor yourself, and might also help you gain better insights into your mentality around body image and food. That way you're not doing this alone and will have other people to tell you if what you're doing is taking a turn into the unhealthy/disordered.

Whatever you decide to do, anon, I hope you find a life that you enjoy and in which you feel well!

[un-father]

So, I have some questions on how daddy Dom works- on terms of relationship dynamics. Please know I am genuinely curious! Obviously, there is wrap around care of your person..from a dom ..emotionally, sexually, etc. But what is the father aspect...like do you encourage a healthier, balanced diet? Make sure she gets her yearly mammogram? Buy them ortho inserts? I'm just curious about the sort of boring every day care of another. The self care things...like taking a spa day all the way to going back to college...how does this work within this framework...aka beyond the general dom/sub framework...thank you -apologies ahead of time if im completely missing the ideas here...-LNF

You basically got it. Is a more nurturing aspect.

[beardedmrbean]

In response to higher taxes on sugary products proposed by the Finance Ministry in March, Kauppalehti runs an editorial suggesting that the move would likely not make Finns any healthier.

The government's proposal would raise the value-added tax (VAT) on sweets and chocolate from 14 percent to 25.5 percent. The Ministry of Finance calculated that the VAT increase on sweets could add 85 million euros to the Finnish budget annually.

The government has said they are taking the advice of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), although last month the health organisation said it did not entirely agree with the tax hike.

The editorial points out that potato chips and cookies have been left out of the proposal for political reasons.

KL alleged that the Swedish People's Party (SPP) protected the Swedish-speaking autonomous region of Åland's potato chip industry, home to the Taffel factory. The editorial also posited that cookies were excluded because the Minister of Agriculture wanted to protect domestic grain products.

The tax has been referred to as the 'Fazer tax' because it hits Finland's leading chocolate and confectionery manufacturer the hardest.

In response to the tax, Fazer has said it is holding off on a 500-million-euro investment decision.

KL said that in theory the tax sounds good, but may just push more candy-like products onto cookie shelves to circumvent taxation. Additionally, unhealthy snackers may not curb their appetites, but look to other, less-taxed junk food instead.

Summer heat

Tabloid Ilta-Sanomat wrote that the summer looks promising, at least if you like the heat.

The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts' (ECMWF) June-August forecast promises a hot summer across the continent, between 0.5 and 2 degrees warmer on average.

The Finnish summer this year also seems to be warmer than normal in terms of average temperatures. On the other hand, rainfall looks set to remain fairly normal or below normal.

"The forecast does not say whether we will see hot spells or more evenly distributed warmth; only the daily weather forecasts will show that over time," Foreca meteorologist Joanna Rinne said in a blog post.

Of course, Rinne added that while it is possible to see general trends, predicting the weather this far out is difficult.

"However, the forecast for the Finnish summer shows that although temperatures and rainfall will vary from day to day and week to week, as is always the case in Finland in summer, the overall picture for summer should be warm," Rinne noted.

Zip it and clip it

Finns' reputation for enjoying the silence seems to have extended into haircare, as Helsingin Sanomat covered the growing popularity of barbers offering silent services.

The process involves minimal dialogue between the barber and the customer, only discussing that which is the most necessary for the haircut. As such, the barber promises not to talk about the weather or what a customer does for a living during the 30-minute service.

Kati Hakomeri, a Helsinki barber offering the service, told HS that she needs to say less than 10 words when customers choose the silent treatment.

Hakomeri said that for some people the idea of having to interact with others can make them anxious.

"I'm an introvert myself and I understand how uncomfortable it can be for a client in a situation where small talk is needed. It's against my nature," Hakomeri said.

Using an online application, customers can book and choose the silent option for a haircut ahead of time, so both the barber and customer are on the same page.

[healthy444]

Do you know what are tips for weight loss?

Weight loss can be a challenging journey, but with the right approach, it’s achievable. Here are some tips to help you on your weight loss journey:

Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable and realistic goals for yourself. Aim for gradual, sustainable weight loss rather than rapid, drastic changes.

Balanced Diet: Focus on eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-calorie beverages.

Control Portions: Pay attention to portion sizes. Use smaller plates and avoid eating directly from containers to help control portions.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Sometimes thirst can be mistaken for hunger, leading to unnecessary snacking.

Regular Exercise: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week, along with strength training exercises at least two days a week.

Find an Activity You Enjoy: Choose activities that you enjoy, whether it’s walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing. This will make it easier to stick with your exercise routine.

Be Mindful of Snacking: Pay attention to mindless eating and emotional eating. Keep healthy snacks on hand, such as nuts, fruits, or yogurt, and avoid keeping unhealthy snacks within easy reach.

Monitor Your Progress: Keep track of your food intake, exercise routine, and progress toward your goals. This can help you stay accountable and make adjustments as needed.

Get Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night. Poor sleep can disrupt hunger hormones and lead to overeating.

Manage Stress: Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as practicing relaxation techniques, exercising, or spending time with loved ones. Stress eating can sabotage weight loss efforts.

Seek Support: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family members who can encourage and motivate you on your weight loss journey. Consider joining a support group or working with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for additional guidance and accountability.

Limit Added Sugars and Refined Carbohydrates: Cut back on foods and beverages high in added sugars, such as soda, candy, and baked goods. Also, reduce your intake of refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, and rice, which can spike blood sugar levels and lead to cravings.

Eat Mindfully: Practice mindful eating by paying attention to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Slow down while eating, savor each bite, and avoid distractions like watching TV or using electronic devices.

Plan and Prepare Meals: Plan your meals ahead of time and prepare healthy snacks and ingredients in advance. This can help you make healthier choices and avoid impulsive, unhealthy options.

Incorporate More Fiber: Include plenty of high-fiber foods in your diet, such as fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Fiber helps you feel full and satisfied, which can prevent overeating.

Stay Consistent: Stick to your weight loss plan consistently, even on weekends and holidays. Consistency is key to long-term success.

Be Flexible: While it’s essential to have a plan, it’s also important to be flexible and adaptable. If you have a setback or indulge in a high-calorie meal, don’t dwell on it. Instead, refocus on your goals and get back on track.

Celebrate Non-Scale Victories: Don’t solely rely on the scale to measure your progress. Celebrate other achievements, such as increased energy levels, improved mood, and clothes fitting better.

Stay Hydrated with Water-Rich Foods: In addition to drinking water, incorporate water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and celery into your diet. These foods are hydrating and low in calories, helping you feel full without consuming excess calories.

Consider Professional Help if Needed: If you’re struggling to lose weight despite your best efforts, consider seeking guidance from a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian or doctor. They can provide personalized recommendations and support tailored to your needs.

By incorporating these tips into your weight loss journey, you can increase your chances of success and achieve your goals in a healthy and sustainable manner.

Remember, weight loss is a gradual process, and it’s essential to be patient and kind to yourself along the way. Focus on making sustainable lifestyle changes rather than quick fixes, and celebrate your progress, no matter how small.

NOTE: Cut the Fat, Boost the Energy! Just check this out here!