Paul Norg

The saying "you are what you eat" takes on a new meaning when discussing the relationship between nutrition and mental health. With ongoing research into the gut-brain connection, it's becoming clear that what you consume can significantly affect your mental well-being, including symptoms of depression. Here's how: The Gut-Brain Axis:  - What It Is: The gut-brain axis refers to the biochemical signaling that takes place between the gastrointestinal tract (the gut) and the central nervous system (the brain). There are quite a few other things that make the gut flora balanced.  Lactobacillus rhamnosus  ( The gut-brain axis: interactions between enteric microbiota, central and enteric nervous systems - PMC,  n.d.)   was one of the probiotics I've used to fight lactose intolerance. A few days of taking colony-forming numbers of this form reduced my negative reactions to milk products.  (para. 13.) - Why It Matters: Research shows that an unhealthy gut can negat...

     Numerous studies have highlighted the role physical activity plays in mental health. For those living with depression, incorporating regular exercise can offer significant relief from symptoms. Let’s delve into the relationship between physical activity and depression, understanding its benefits and how to harness them effectively. 1. Biochemical Boost: - What Happens: Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins—natural mood lifters. It also stimulates the release of neurotransmitters, like serotonin, that can reduce depression and anxiety. For years now, I've been told and have read from multiple sources that physical activity limits and reduces depression and stress through biological changes in hormone and metabolic functions. I do feel better when I work out. Lately, however, it's been difficult because I can't use my legs for working out. - Benefit for Depression: These biochemical changes improve mood, reduce feelings of stress, and create a sens...

Mindfulness refers to the practice of focusing your attention on the present moment and accepting it without judgment. It has been shown to have significant benefits for mental health, including the reduction of depression symptoms. Here are some mindfulness techniques that can help alleviate these symptoms: 1. Mindful Breathing:    - What It Is: This simple yet effective mindfulness technique involves focusing your attention on your breath as it flows in and out. The other day I was practicing breathing and lowering my pain at the chiropractor. I'm usually textbook with my BP unless I have a lot of pain that day. They were doing a check on my progress, and BP was one of those checks. It came back 90/77 vs 120/80 ish. Mindfulness can sometimes be that dramatically effective.      From  What are the Benefits of Cold Therapy? | Wim Hof Method  (n.d.) details on how to use cold therapy are outlined and it suggests that handling more than just mental stres...

This donation page is open till August 31st this year. The BCFM organization helped me in many lasting ways during my fight against AML cancer. And for that reason, I began supporting and looking for ways to help them raise money and personally donate to them for the last 3 years since I recovered from AML. https://www.facebook.com/donate/300656985633050/ 

When we think about what makes a connection meaningful, vulnerability often comes to mind. Being vulnerable means opening yourself up, showing your true self, and embracing the risk of getting hurt. It might sound scary, but it is a fundamental component in building strong, authentic relationships. Let's explore how embracing vulnerability can help us connect on a deeper level. Personally, I've spent years trying to avoid emotion, becoming stoic, able to handle any situation without being rattled. And it works really well when you are at work and there are stressful situations. But there are times you get taken advantage of, and disrespected by those you work for as a result. A better answer would have been for me to have 50% of that stoicism and 50% of general emotion.  Understanding Vulnerability Vulnerability is the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome. It's about emotional risk, exposure, and uncertainty. Despite common misconceptions,...

Social media permeates every part of modern life, providing platforms for communication, self-expression, and news consumption. It also has potential negative impacts, particularly on mental health. Here's a comprehensive guide on the impact of social media on depression, and my personal thoughts on how it has affected me and also others.  1. The Comparison Trap:    How It Impacts Depression: Social media often showcases highlight reels of people's lives, leading users to compare their everyday reality to others' best moments. This comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy and deepen depressive symptoms.      Leaning on others for edification or dopamine hits from likes on your posts, pictures, or videos has become a sort of emotional currency. I tend to shut down and ignore some of my social media just due to being burned out mentally with trying to keep up with even friends, family, acquaintances, and contacts, some of which I will barely know, but in...

     As we navigate the digital era, social media has become an integral part of our lives. It's a tool for communication, a source of news, and a platform for self-expression. But beyond that, it's an arena where we can foster connections with a global community. This post will guide you on how to utilize social media effectively to nurture and deepen connections.     Not only has social media changed the way we connect, but it also became a predominant way of communicating during our COVID lockdown. Despite all of the misinformation, we as humans will continue to desire connection, and digital platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok are only bolstering the use of digital communication.  Some of this is causing issues with our older populations, as they either aren't adopting it or are becoming agitated with it.  **1. Be Genuine**      Your authenticity is your greatest asset. Share your passions, interests, and experien...