Love & Life Elevated

Kindness is a source of strength. It can help us overcome difficult times and challenges. When we are kind to others, we are also being kind to ourselves. Being kind has a host of benefits that are supported by science. When we are kind, our brain releases oxytocin, which is sometimes called the "love hormone." Oxytocin has been linked with lower blood pressure, reduced stress levels, and increased feelings of happiness and well-being. What's more, oxytocin has been shown to boost immunity and even help to slow the aging process. And it's not just our own health that benefits from acts of kindness. Kindness also fosters trust and cooperation, which are essential for any successful relationship.

A type of Buddhist meditation, Metta meditation is based on Pali. "Metta" in Pali means good energy and compassion for others. The practice is also known as loving-kindness meditation. Living-kindness meditation may actually help lengthen our telomeres. Telomeres are the caps on our chromosomes that protect our DNA from deterioration. A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that people who regularly practiced metta meditation had longer telomeres than those who didn't meditate at all. Metta meditation has also been shown to increase levels of oxytocin, the so-called "love hormone" that plays a role in social bonding, trust, and attachment.

Metta meditation is a practice that can be done anywhere, anytime. All you need is a comfortable place to sit or lie down. You can close your eyes if you like, but it's not necessary.

So many of us have worked on things in our life that we needed to keep to ourselves until it was ready. Maybe we were worried that people wouldn't understand, or maybe we thought they would judge us. But the truth is, when we keep our work to ourselves, we're not giving people the chance to help us improve it.

In the past I've talked a lot about ways to enhance our gene expression and longevity. But you've reached out and asked what are some things that may hamper longevity? So today, I'm going to take about ten things or ten habits that can have a negative impact on gene expression.

I often hear from listeners that they turn to prayer and ask what my prayer practice is. I have shared this with you in the past and today I will again talk about the power of prayer and its ability to augment the opportunity to see ourselves as more possible.

There is always the possibility for change and growth, no matter where you are in life. If you find yourself in a relationship that is no longer serving you, have the courage to end it. It takes authenticity and strength to live life on your own terms, but it is so worth it. When you are true to yourself, you can attract relationships and experiences that are in alignment with your purpose. Every day is a new opportunity to create the life you want. Choose possibility. Choose authenticity. Choose YOU.

Today's message is all about aging gracefully. It is about embracing and applying wisdom daily. Lean into self-awareness, wisdom and what you know is true. Take responsibility for your life thus far.

10,000 steps a day is a great health goal when it comes to heart health. New research shows that this same amount of steps significantly decreases our risk of dementia. And getting in 10,000 isn't really too difficult. Thirty minutes of brisk walking will reduce the risk of dementia by 60%.

Even when times are tough, it's important to remember that there are always people who are willing to help. Look for the helpers in your life, and be grateful for their support. You'll find that things will get a little bit easier with their help.

Real friends are those who care about you and your welfare, and not just what you can do for them. Deal friends are those who only want to be friends with you as long as you can offer them something in return. Aristotle ranked friendships according to how well the two people's values aligned. The highest-ranked friendship is one in which both parties share the same values and care about each other's welfare. The lowest-ranked friendship is one that is based solely on utility or transaction, with no regard for the other person's wellbeing.