healthyholisticliving--2020-05-15--A Million People Are Pretending To Be Ants On Facebook — And It Could Be Therapeutic

For those of you feeling a little stir crazy , there could be a new past time to keep you calmer .
A new craze has caught on creating an ideal fantasy world to avoid Covid-19 woes .
The fantasy ?
Join an ant colony .
Yep , I said ants .
( 1 ) According to creator , Tyrese Childs , his “ ant colony ” has grown to 1.7 million members .
What started out as a bizarre Facebook role-playing group has become a craze attracting people of all ages .
( 1 ) “ For some reason @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of it , ” says 40-year-old mother of three Katie Parker .
She says she visits the group for a few minutes every day with her 10-year-old son Declan .
As with a real colony , members live to serve their queen .
They share images and make comments related to being ants .
( 1 ) In one example , an image of an ant-covered cup of pink ice cream is shared with an invitation for fellow members to bring treats to the queen .
It created over 18,000 comments from members @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Slurp ” .
( 1 ) Group creator Childs has tried to maintain the integrity of their page by avoiding Covid-19 references .
“ We have filtered out all the COVID-19 posts so it ’ s like an escape , ” he says .
Along with his team of administrators , they also introduced rules such as remaining respectful .
They also discourage political and human issue discussions .
( 1 ) The group is one of over 70 role-playing groups on Facebook .
They offer an escape from the everyday pains of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ popular in the age of the pandemic .
The group started out with just 100,000 members .
Other groups range from a few hundred to over a million .
( 1 ) “ Role-playing can help with emotional regulation and resiliency , ” says Sarah Lynne Bowman , an adjunct professor of humanities at Austin Community College in Texas .
These groups can be an excellent coping mechanism for people .
( 1 ) I should point out that many of these groups have been around pre-pandemic .
Lockdown however , has attracted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sane .
“ We have so many user requests and pending posts that this has become a job for me , ” says Childs of his group .
“ I think people are searching for something to do right now .
You can only scroll so much on social media.
” ( 1 ) According to Andreas Lieberoth , an assistant professor of media psychology at Aarhus University in Denmark , role-playing during these times is not surprising .
It provides interaction when social distancing is in place and helps people meet their @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ants offer a highly focused , worry-free life that is appealing during the crisis .
It also provides a sense of purpose .
( 1 ) “ The ant group sounds like a psychologically safe space to meander with nothing scary and nothing political and nothing coronavirus-related , ” he says .
“ I don ’ t know if ants get COVID , but in this colony , they don ’ t. ” ( 1 ) Lieberoth ’ s current research focuses on stress during the coronavirus pandemic .
Common worries include the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ well as concerns over families , jobs , and communities .
( 1 ) “ As more of the world seems like something you can ’ t predict , we try to ignore things that we can ’ t control , and we try to find spaces where things are relaxing , like gardening or hiking or playing games , ” he says .
( 1 ) “ We are learning right now that the Western ideals of self-sufficiency won ’ t be able to serve us , especially with challenges in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says Bowman .
“ So I find it interesting that a whole bunch of people want to be in a group with a hive mind.
” ( 1 ) Making it an even more attractive prospect , there ’ s also a charity twist added to the mix .
Group administrator John Kennedy decided to leverage the throngs joining the group to make it more worthwhile .
“ I was thinking , ‘ How do we make this a good thing ? '
” he says .
“ I ’ ve seen things @ @ @ @ @ @ @ see things die very fast.
” As a result , the group sells “ ant-spired ” merchandise with 50 % of the proceeds going to a nature conservancy .
( 1 ) Meanwhile , back at the Parker home , the mindless relief from coronavirus stress is welcome .
“ I think the reason we like this is because it ’ s mindless relief .
It is silly , ” she says .
“ I love knowing that there are about 2 million people out there who get a kick out of this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Why not ?
( 1 )

For those of you feeling a little stir crazy, there could be a new past time to keep you calmer. A new craze has caught on creating an ideal fantasy world to avoid Covid-19 woes. The fantasy? Join an ant colony. Yep, I said ants. (1)
Ants On Facebook Creator
According to creator, Tyrese Childs, his “ant colony” has grown to 1.7 million members. What started out as a bizarre Facebook role-playing group has become a craze attracting people of all ages. (1)
“For some reason, we get a big kick out of it,” says 40-year-old mother of three Katie Parker. She says she visits the group for a few minutes every day with her 10-year-old son Declan. As with a real colony, members live to serve their queen. They share images and make comments related to being ants. (1)
Ants On Facebook Posts
In one example, an image of an ant-covered cup of pink ice cream is shared with an invitation for fellow members to bring treats to the queen. It created over 18,000 comments from members such as “Nom” and “Slurp”. (1)
Group creator Childs has tried to maintain the integrity of their page by avoiding Covid-19 references. “We have filtered out all the COVID-19 posts so it’s like an escape,” he says. Along with his team of administrators, they also introduced rules such as remaining respectful. They also discourage political and human issue discussions. (1)
Ants On Facebook Role-Playing Group
The group is one of over 70 role-playing groups on Facebook. They offer an escape from the everyday pains of the world, making them even more popular in the age of the pandemic. The group started out with just 100,000 members. Other groups range from a few hundred to over a million. (1)
“Role-playing can help with emotional regulation and resiliency,” says Sarah Lynne Bowman, an adjunct professor of humanities at Austin Community College in Texas. These groups can be an excellent coping mechanism for people. (1)
Ants On Facebook Pre-Pandemic
I should point out that many of these groups have been around pre-pandemic. Lockdown however, has attracted more followers looking for ways to keep sane. “We have so many user requests and pending posts that this has become a job for me,” says Childs of his group. “I think people are searching for something to do right now. You can only scroll so much on social media.” (1)
Ants On Facebook Psychologically Safe
According to Andreas Lieberoth, an assistant professor of media psychology at Aarhus University in Denmark, role-playing during these times is not surprising. It provides interaction when social distancing is in place and helps people meet their need to be with others. The ants offer a highly focused, worry-free life that is appealing during the crisis. It also provides a sense of purpose. (1)
“The ant group sounds like a psychologically safe space to meander with nothing scary and nothing political and nothing coronavirus-related,” he says. “I don’t know if ants get COVID, but in this colony, they don’t.” (1)
Lieberoth’s current research focuses on stress during the coronavirus pandemic. Common worries include the societal impact of the pandemic, as well as concerns over families, jobs, and communities. (1)
“As more of the world seems like something you can’t predict, we try to ignore things that we can’t control, and we try to find spaces where things are relaxing, like gardening or hiking or playing games,” he says. (1)
Ants On Facebook Creates Hive Mind
“We are learning right now that the Western ideals of self-sufficiency won’t be able to serve us, especially with challenges in a health pandemic and climate change,” says Bowman. “So I find it interesting that a whole bunch of people want to be in a group with a hive mind.” (1)
Making it an even more attractive prospect, there’s also a charity twist added to the mix. Group administrator John Kennedy decided to leverage the throngs joining the group to make it more worthwhile. “I was thinking, ‘How do we make this a good thing?'” he says. “I’ve seen things get really big, and then I see things die very fast.” As a result, the group sells “ant-spired” merchandise with 50% of the proceeds going to a nature conservancy. (1)
Meanwhile, back at the Parker home, the mindless relief from coronavirus stress is welcome. “I think the reason we like this is because it’s mindless relief. It is silly,” she says. “I love knowing that there are about 2 million people out there who get a kick out of this, too.” So, ants huh? Why not? (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-18--Georgia Officials Warn Of 4-Foot-Long Invasive Lizards That Eat ‘Anything They Want”

The year 2020 has so far been… how should I put this… wacko .
We began the new year with high hopes.The year “ 2020 ” has a nice symmetry to it .
It calls to mind the idea of balance , of clear vision , a path forward .
But we got duped .
We should all know better than to sign on to something just because it “ looks nice ” !
Many of us fell hook , line , and sinker for 2020 , only to be cruelly let down .
First , we encountered the horrific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the globe like wildfire .
The coronavirus has caused upheaval in homes near and far .
It has cost lives and divided nations .
All this , even before the spring equinox .
Then came the mandatory self-isolation and quarantines , followed soon after by the conspiracy theories , and of course the protestors .
( 1 , 2 ) Then , just when things seemed like they couldn ’ t get any more bizarre , the murder hornets showed up .
This convinced most of us that this year just has to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 3 ) Long before the murder hornets , the jokes had already begun proclaiming that 2020 is being written by Stephen King .
Perhaps directed by Quentin Tarantino .
Or maybe we ’ re all on Candid Camera .
And now we have murder hornets .
You can ’ t make this stuff up .
But wait , there ’ s more !
We now present you with the Argentine black and white tegu , an invasive lizard that can grow up to four and a half feet long , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ wants .
( 4 ) These invasive lizards have been spotted throughout Georgia for a few years now , but wildlife officials are currently making a big push toward eradicating it .
Though this lizard is not a threat to humans , nor most of our pets , unfortunately the native wildlife isn ’ t so lucky .
The tegu ’ s menu varies widely… they enjoy everything from fresh fruit to eggs .
Turns out they even have a taste for some of the more rare delicacies .
Take for instance the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for listing in the Endangered Species Act .
Tegus like to eat the gopher tortoise ’ s eggs , and their babies too , and as you might expect the local wildlife officials would prefer to nip that in the bud .
( 4 ) Not surprisingly , Tegus are popular in the worldwide pet trade .
This is of course how they end up as invasive lizards in places they don ’ t belong , and Georgia isn ’ t the only state with this problem .
Where it ’ s only @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been trying to eradicate these pesky lizards , Florida has been battling with the tegu for longer than that .
It ’ s tough to get a handle on things once they ’ ve been able to get themselves established in the wild and begin to reproduce .
( 4 ) So this is a message worth repeating : It is never a good idea to release animals that you can no longer care for , out into the wild .
If for some reason you can no longer keep your pet @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them in a place that will be safe and healthy for them .
It ’ s no more appropriate to release your snake or lizard into the wild , than it is to release your dog or cat .
Not only is it cruel , but it can also have detrimental effects on native and endemic populations .
So don ’ t do it !
Re-home your pets the right way .
You may end up saving more lives than just theirs .

The year 2020 has so far been… how should I put this… wacko. We began the new year with high hopes.The year “2020” has a nice symmetry to it. It calls to mind the idea of balance, of clear vision, a path forward. But we got duped. We should all know better than to sign on to something just because it “looks nice”! Many of us fell hook, line, and sinker for 2020, only to be cruelly let down.
First, we encountered the horrific and deadly virus, which spread across the globe like wildfire. The coronavirus has caused upheaval in homes near and far. It has cost lives and divided nations. All this, even before the spring equinox. Then came the mandatory self-isolation and quarantines, followed soon after by the conspiracy theories, and of course the protestors. (1, 2)
Then, just when things seemed like they couldn’t get any more bizarre, the murder hornets showed up. This convinced most of us that this year just has to have some sort of hex on it. (3) Long before the murder hornets, the jokes had already begun proclaiming that 2020 is being written by Stephen King. Perhaps directed by Quentin Tarantino. Or maybe we’re all on Candid Camera. And now we have murder hornets. You can’t make this stuff up.
But wait, there’s more! We now present you with the Argentine black and white tegu, an invasive lizard that can grow up to four and a half feet long, and pretty much likes to eat whatever it wants. (4)
Pets Now, Invasive Lizards Later
These invasive lizards have been spotted throughout Georgia for a few years now, but wildlife officials are currently making a big push toward eradicating it. Though this lizard is not a threat to humans, nor most of our pets, unfortunately the native wildlife isn’t so lucky. The tegu’s menu varies widely… they enjoy everything from fresh fruit to eggs. Turns out they even have a taste for some of the more rare delicacies. Take for instance the gopher tortoise, who is a candidate for listing in the Endangered Species Act. Tegus like to eat the gopher tortoise’s eggs, and their babies too, and as you might expect the local wildlife officials would prefer to nip that in the bud. (4)
Not surprisingly, Tegus are popular in the worldwide pet trade. This is of course how they end up as invasive lizards in places they don’t belong, and Georgia isn’t the only state with this problem. Where it’s only been a few years now that Georgia has been trying to eradicate these pesky lizards, Florida has been battling with the tegu for longer than that. It’s tough to get a handle on things once they’ve been able to get themselves established in the wild and begin to reproduce. (4)
So this is a message worth repeating: It is never a good idea to release animals that you can no longer care for, out into the wild. If for some reason you can no longer keep your pet, whatever species it is, re-home them in a place that will be safe and healthy for them. It’s no more appropriate to release your snake or lizard into the wild, than it is to release your dog or cat. Not only is it cruel, but it can also have detrimental effects on native and endemic populations. So don’t do it! Re-home your pets the right way. You may end up saving more lives than just theirs.


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-18--Florida’s Long-Lost Blue Bee Has Been Rediscovered

If you ’ ve never heard of a blue bee , you ’ re not the only one .
While Florida is most known for its alligators and manatees , the ultra-rare Osmia calaminthae bee made a recent appearance .
While researchers discovered the metallic blue bee species in 2011 , the insects haven ’ t been spotted since 2016 .
Though scientists feared the bee ’ s extinction , the new siting is creating an exciting buzz among researchers .
Chase Kimmel , a postdoctoral researcher , is working on a new two-year research project to study the blue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is essential to ensuring its habitat is properly preserved , especially since it ’ s believed that the bee is native to a specific ecosystem in Florida .
( 1 ) Florida ’ s Lake Wales Ridge is an ancient topographic feature of the region .
The ridges are the oldest and highest in the state , forming over millions of years as sea levels rose and fell .
The dune ridges , once islands , are home to species found nowhere else in the world .
The blue calaminthae bee is one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ documented since 2011 , the blue bug has finely adapted to its environment .
Among the scrub and sandhills , blue calaminthae bees depend on lavender-hued flowers of the local Ashe ’ s calamint plant .
The symbiotic relationship between the species is what gave these blue bees their name .
Working solitarily , the bees flit from flower to flower and collect pollen .
Unlike other bees , these unusual insects collect the golden substance on facial hairs instead of their legs .
Other bees in the Osmia family make individual nests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that blue calaminthaes do the same .
To test their nesting preferences , Kimmel and his research team created bee “ condos.
” Pine boxes with drilled holes and hollow reeds will test how the bees best like to make their home .
As they collect their findings , the team will get a better idea of how the bees live .
( 1 ) The dry , desert-like habitat of Lake Wales Ridge is home to one of the highest number of rare plant and animal species in the United States .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ up to 85 % of the rich , diverse land area has been lost to development and agriculture .
As a result , sections of the ridge are under protection to ensure the ecosystem is preserved .
( 2 ) Since the blue calaminthae bee is thought to be an exclusive resident of the area , it ’ s currently listed on Florida ’ s State Wildlife Action Plan as a species of greatest conservation need .
Kimmel ’ s team hopes that their project will help protect the bee even further .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ could qualify under the Endangered Species Act .
Ashe ’ s calamint , the bees ’ preferred pollen-source , is also a threatened species .
The more research that the team can gather , the better equipped they ’ ll be to enact measures for conservation .
Though COVID-19 safety measures prevent the entire team from being in the field , Kimmel has thankfully received special permission to conduct his research .
He hopes that his colleagues will be able to join him soon , but he continues to focus on the work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to fill in a lot of gaps that were not previously known , ” Kimmel told the Florida Museum .
“ It shows how little we know about the insect community and how there ’ s a lot of neat discoveries that can still occur.
” ( 1 )

If you’ve never heard of a blue bee, you’re not the only one. While Florida is most known for its alligators and manatees, the ultra-rare Osmia calaminthae bee made a recent appearance. While researchers discovered the metallic blue bee species in 2011, the insects haven’t been spotted since 2016. Though scientists feared the bee’s extinction, the new siting is creating an exciting buzz among researchers.
Chase Kimmel, a postdoctoral researcher, is working on a new two-year research project to study the blue calaminthae bee. Understanding this rare species is essential to ensuring its habitat is properly preserved, especially since it’s believed that the bee is native to a specific ecosystem in Florida. (1)
A Highly Specialized Blue Bee
Florida’s Lake Wales Ridge is an ancient topographic feature of the region. The ridges are the oldest and highest in the state, forming over millions of years as sea levels rose and fell. The dune ridges, once islands, are home to species found nowhere else in the world. The blue calaminthae bee is one of them. (2)
Only documented since 2011, the blue bug has finely adapted to its environment. Among the scrub and sandhills, blue calaminthae bees depend on lavender-hued flowers of the local Ashe’s calamint plant. The symbiotic relationship between the species is what gave these blue bees their name. Working solitarily, the bees flit from flower to flower and collect pollen. Unlike other bees, these unusual insects collect the golden substance on facial hairs instead of their legs.
Other bees in the Osmia family make individual nests instead of hives, and scientists hypothesize that blue calaminthaes do the same. To test their nesting preferences, Kimmel and his research team created bee “condos.” Pine boxes with drilled holes and hollow reeds will test how the bees best like to make their home. As they collect their findings, the team will get a better idea of how the bees live. (1)
Florida’s Threatened Habitat
The dry, desert-like habitat of Lake Wales Ridge is home to one of the highest number of rare plant and animal species in the United States. Sadly, it’s estimated that up to 85% of the rich, diverse land area has been lost to development and agriculture. As a result, sections of the ridge are under protection to ensure the ecosystem is preserved. (2)
Since the blue calaminthae bee is thought to be an exclusive resident of the area, it’s currently listed on Florida’s State Wildlife Action Plan as a species of greatest conservation need. Kimmel’s team hopes that their project will help protect the bee even further. With enough information, the blue calaminthae could qualify under the Endangered Species Act. Ashe’s calamint, the bees’ preferred pollen-source, is also a threatened species. The more research that the team can gather, the better equipped they’ll be to enact measures for conservation.
Though COVID-19 safety measures prevent the entire team from being in the field, Kimmel has thankfully received special permission to conduct his research. He hopes that his colleagues will be able to join him soon, but he continues to focus on the work ahead. “We’re trying to fill in a lot of gaps that were not previously known,” Kimmel told the Florida Museum. “It shows how little we know about the insect community and how there’s a lot of neat discoveries that can still occur.” (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-18--A Pennsylvania Egg Farmer Considered Killing Half His Flock Until A Woman On Facebook Devised A Plan

A Pennsylvania Egg Farmer Considered Killing Half His Flock Until A Woman On Facebook Devised A Plan To Save Them

COVID-19 has impacted our food supply in a variety of ways .
Whether it ’ s bare grocery store shelves or farmers dumping milk , it seems to be an almost inevitable force .
But one Pennsylvania farmer teamed up with a nearby woman and her farm to change that .
Josh Zimmerman is an egg farmer from Hamburg , Pennsylvania , who ran into trouble due to the novel coronavirus .
His Wind Crest Farm has 80,000 hens , and his farm produced over 60,000 eggs per day .
Zimmerman ’ s bulk-egg processor , a company that turned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ run out of storage space .
They told him that there was no market anymore .
Usually , liquefied eggs go to places like schools , hospitals , hotels , and cruise ships–all places that are seeing markedly less traffic , and less need for food .
About 30 % of all eggs produced in the United States go to this market .
Now , he was running out of options for what to do with the thousands of eggs his chickens were producing .
( 1 , 2 ) Timi Bauscher runs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , as well as a 1,700 chicken farm , with her husband Keith .
When she heard about Josh Zimmerman ’ s plight–and the potential fate of his chickens , she decided to step in .
“ We are going to try and prevent him from total loss and move his eggs via different avenues , ” she says .
She planned a contactless sale , drive-through only , offering the eggs for $ 2 per dozen–a steal of a deal .
She posted about it on Facebook , announcing , “ let @ @ @ @ @ @ @ peeps !
” Originally , they held it at the Nesting Box Farm Market , but after the first day , Monday , April 27th , 2020 , they knew they ’ d have to move it .
Not because of any problem–far from it .
In fact , there were lineups of people responding to Timi ’ s Facebook call .
( 1 , 2 ) Zimmerman had originally said that he thought Timi would “ move a skid or two a week , ” and hoped to save one barn–about half @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after the success of the April sale , Bauscher and Zimmerman held a bulk sale at the Kempton Community Center–a space of 50 acres .
On Sunday , May 3rd , 2020 , thirty volunteers banded together to hold another contact-free , drive-through sale .
Selling 18,000 dozen eggs , and generating $ 36,000 , they were able to cover the costs–and keep the chickens alive .
Pegene Pitcairn had seen the Facebook post and drove an hour to support Wind Crest Farm .
“ It really is a wonderful story of how @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our food chain , ” she says .
Another sale , on Sunday , May 10th , 2020 , sold approximately ¾ of a tractor-trailer , according to Bauscher .
She thinks they ’ ll sell around 22,000-25,00 per week from now on .
In an article about starting the Nesting Box , Bauscher had spoken about the importance of businesses like hers–and the one she would , in the future , enter into with Zimmerman .
“ Locally bought food is the best way to support local farmers , promote health and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a few miles of your homes.
” ( 1 , 3 )

COVID-19 has impacted our food supply in a variety of ways. Whether it’s bare grocery store shelves or farmers dumping milk, it seems to be an almost inevitable force. But one Pennsylvania farmer teamed up with a nearby woman and her farm to change that.
Liquefied Eggs–Supply and Demand
Josh Zimmerman is an egg farmer from Hamburg, Pennsylvania, who ran into trouble due to the novel coronavirus. His Wind Crest Farm has 80,000 hens, and his farm produced over 60,000 eggs per day. Zimmerman’s bulk-egg processor, a company that turned his supply into liquefied eggs, had run out of storage space. They told him that there was no market anymore. Usually, liquefied eggs go to places like schools, hospitals, hotels, and cruise ships–all places that are seeing markedly less traffic, and less need for food. About 30% of all eggs produced in the United States go to this market. Now, he was running out of options for what to do with the thousands of eggs his chickens were producing. (1, 2)
Nesting Box Farm Market and Creamery
Timi Bauscher runs the Nesting Box Farm Market and Creamery, as well as a 1,700 chicken farm, with her husband Keith. When she heard about Josh Zimmerman’s plight–and the potential fate of his chickens, she decided to step in. “We are going to try and prevent him from total loss and move his eggs via different avenues,” she says. She planned a contactless sale, drive-through only, offering the eggs for $2 per dozen–a steal of a deal. She posted about it on Facebook, announcing, “let’s do this, Nesting Box peeps!”
Originally, they held it at the Nesting Box Farm Market, but after the first day, Monday, April 27th, 2020, they knew they’d have to move it. Not because of any problem–far from it. In fact, there were lineups of people responding to Timi’s Facebook call. (1, 2)
Bulk Sale
Zimmerman had originally said that he thought Timi would “move a skid or two a week,” and hoped to save one barn–about half of those 80,000 chickens. But, after the success of the April sale, Bauscher and Zimmerman held a bulk sale at the Kempton Community Center–a space of 50 acres. On Sunday, May 3rd, 2020, thirty volunteers banded together to hold another contact-free, drive-through sale. Selling 18,000 dozen eggs, and generating $36,000, they were able to cover the costs–and keep the chickens alive.
Pegene Pitcairn had seen the Facebook post and drove an hour to support Wind Crest Farm. “It really is a wonderful story of how humans come together to help people in our food chain,” she says.
Quality Food
Another sale, on Sunday, May 10th, 2020, sold approximately ¾ of a tractor-trailer, according to Bauscher. She thinks they’ll sell around 22,000-25,00 per week from now on.
In an article about starting the Nesting Box, Bauscher had spoken about the importance of businesses like hers–and the one she would, in the future, enter into with Zimmerman.
“Locally bought food is the best way to support local farmers, promote health and food safety and keep quality food within a few miles of your homes.” (1, 3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-19--The Sun Has Entered A ‘Lockdown’ Period, Which Could Cause Freezing Weather, Famine

The Solar Minimum is Here The sun is coming to the end of its current cycle .
It ’ s experiencing something called the “ solar minimum ” when there are fewer sunspots present on the surface of the sun — even zero some days .
But what does the end of a solar cycle mean for those of us on earth ?
( 1 ) According to NASA , the sun goes through regular 11-year cycles .
During those years , the sun ’ s energy output changes .
Scientists can measure these changes through the number of sunspots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the sunspots are highest is called a “ solar maximum ” .
When the sunspots decrease the most is called the “ solar minimum ” .
( 1 , 2 ) Sunspots are highly magnetized areas on the sun .
They look like dark spots ( although you should never look directly at the sun ) .
Scientists have counted them every day since 1838 .
Keeping track of the number of sunspots allowed them to notice the pattern that makes up the solar cycle .
( 1 , 3 ) The most @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Since then , the number of sunspots has been decreasing , and scientists have expected the solar minimum to happen in 2019 or 2020 .
( 1 ) No Cause for Alarm Some have been concerned that this means that a mini ice age is coming .
But NASA quickly put that fear to bed , saying that it ’ s just not happening .
( 2 ) Sometimes there are prolonged periods of low solar energy , called “ Grand Solar Minimums ” , such as the “ Little Ice Age ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
A longer period of low solar activity happened at the same time as cooling from volcanic aerosols .
This resulted in lower surface temperatures for those 65 years .
( 2 ) The solar maximum that happened in 2014 has been considered relatively weak .
Because of this , some scientists have predicted another Grand Solar Minimum in the coming decades .
( 2 , 3 ) It ’ s unclear whether or not this will happen , but if it does , NASA argues that global warming would essentially cancel it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s website , “ The warming caused by the greenhouse gas emissions from the human burning of fossil fuels is six times greater than the possible decades-long cooling from a prolonged Grand Solar Minimum.
” ( 2 ) So even if a Grand Solar Minimum lasted for 100 years , global temperatures would continue to rise .
The sun ’ s energy output isn ’ t the only thing that determines the temperature on earth .
The Grand Solar Minimum in the 17th and 18th centuries coincided with another factor ( cooling from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Ice Age .
Basically , this isn ’ t our greatest concern .
( 2 ) So what does happen during a period of decreased solar energy ?
The effects are mostly seen in space .
For instance , changes in space weather effects cause the number of galactic cosmic rays that reach Earth ’ s upper atmosphere to increase .
( 1 ) Dean Pesnell of NASA ’ s Goddard Space Flight Center says that “ During solar minimum , the sun ’ s magnetic field weakens and provides less shielding from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an increased threat to astronauts traveling through space.
” ( 1 ) We may not observe the immediate effects of a solar minimum here on earth .
But the impacts on space and the sun itself are fascinating .

The Solar Minimum is Here
The sun is coming to the end of its current cycle. It’s experiencing something called the “solar minimum” when there are fewer sunspots present on the surface of the sun — even zero some days. But what does the end of a solar cycle mean for those of us on earth? (1)
According to NASA, the sun goes through regular 11-year cycles. During those years, the sun’s energy output changes. Scientists can measure these changes through the number of sunspots on its surface. The time when the sunspots are highest is called a “solar maximum”. When the sunspots decrease the most is called the “solar minimum”. (1, 2)
Sunspots are highly magnetized areas on the sun. They look like dark spots (although you should never look directly at the sun). Scientists have counted them every day since 1838. Keeping track of the number of sunspots allowed them to notice the pattern that makes up the solar cycle. (1, 3)
The most recent solar maximum occurred in 2014. Since then, the number of sunspots has been decreasing, and scientists have expected the solar minimum to happen in 2019 or 2020. (1)
No Cause for Alarm
Some have been concerned that this means that a mini ice age is coming. But NASA quickly put that fear to bed, saying that it’s just not happening. (2)
Sometimes there are prolonged periods of low solar energy, called “Grand Solar Minimums”, such as the “Little Ice Age” that occurred from 1650 to 1715 AD. A longer period of low solar activity happened at the same time as cooling from volcanic aerosols. This resulted in lower surface temperatures for those 65 years. (2)
The solar maximum that happened in 2014 has been considered relatively weak. Because of this, some scientists have predicted another Grand Solar Minimum in the coming decades. (2, 3)
It’s unclear whether or not this will happen, but if it does, NASA argues that global warming would essentially cancel it out. According to the agency’s website, “The warming caused by the greenhouse gas emissions from the human burning of fossil fuels is six times greater than the possible decades-long cooling from a prolonged Grand Solar Minimum.” (2)
So even if a Grand Solar Minimum lasted for 100 years, global temperatures would continue to rise. The sun’s energy output isn’t the only thing that determines the temperature on earth. The Grand Solar Minimum in the 17th and 18th centuries coincided with another factor (cooling from volcanic aerosols) to cause the Little Ice Age. Basically, this isn’t our greatest concern. (2)
Effects of Solar Minimum
So what does happen during a period of decreased solar energy? The effects are mostly seen in space. For instance, changes in space weather effects cause the number of galactic cosmic rays that reach Earth’s upper atmosphere to increase. (1)
Dean Pesnell of NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center says that “During solar minimum, the sun’s magnetic field weakens and provides less shielding from these cosmic rays. This can pose an increased threat to astronauts traveling through space.” (1)
We may not observe the immediate effects of a solar minimum here on earth. But the impacts on space and the sun itself are fascinating.


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-19--The Inn at Little Washington Thinks Mannequins Will Make Social Distancing Less Awkward

Times are hard for everyone in the spring of 2020 , but especially businesses .
Local and statewide ‘ stay-at-home ’ orders have reduced the number of customers coming into shops and making purchases .
Furthermore , social distancing regulations enforced by public health will likely continue to keep traffic low .
So how do businesses bring back the patrons ?
The Inn at Little Washington is getting creative to do two things : keep customers safe and offer a unique dining experience in the midst of a global pandemic .
To keep patrons more than six feet apart , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of COVID-19 , daily operations are going to look strange in businesses everywhere .
However , one Virginia restaurant is taking special steps to make guests feel more comfortable under these new regulations .
Or at least that is what they are attempting to do .
Owners , in order to meet the Virginia Governor ’ s reopening restrictions for restaurants to operate at only fifty percent capacity , plan to fill most of their tables with ‘ model ’ diners .
Thus , up to half of the tables could be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ other half will be occupied permanently by plastic clothing mannequins .
Seems strange ?
Well , these mannequins won ’ t be just sitting idle , as all have been dressed in a 1940 ’ s style and posed to match the ambiance of the restaurant .
Some mannequins are on dates , others are engaged in business meetings , and one is even proposing to his girlfriend over their meal ( which seems incredibly cute ! )
.
To add to the realism , waiters will offer the mannequins beverages from time @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1 , 2 ) The Inn at Little Washington is a world-renowned restaurant , and currently holds 3-Michelin star for dining excellence .
Because of this prestige , some critics have cast judgment on the restaurant ’ s owners for pursuing this type of dining experience or pushing to operate during the pandemic .
However , others are pleasantly intrigued and entertained by the idea of eating alongside mannequins .
Anything to make life fun again , right ?
The Inn ’ s chef , Patrick O ’ Connell , told the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ do people a world of good to reduce their anxiety level when they come out to a place which is still unaffected ” .
It should also be noted that this type of ‘ whacky ’ restaurant experience is not that uncommon for the Inn at Little Washington .
In the past , the restaurant has offered customers cheese from a ‘ mooing ’ cow cart , and waiters have been instructed to speak exclusively in puns .
To make the mannequin concept a reality , the Inn partnered with two local businesses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appropriate the atmospheric whimsy .
To further prevent the spread of COVID-19 within the restaurant , the staff will also conduct routine deep cleanings with an infrared light and sport custom-made masks with Marilyn Monroe ’ s smile and George Washington ’ s chin .
( 1 , 2 ) How Other Restaurants May Manage Social Distancing With no business exempt from social distancing , you should expect to see at least some changes at the stores , gyms , and restaurants you typically frequent .
Restaurants may have some tables removed , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ floor to direct customers movements in the establishment .
But don ’ t be surprised to see even more creative solutions coming !
From blow-up dolls to shower curtains , more unique ideas like the Inn ’ s are at play .
( 3 ) Just keep your eyes and mind open – and stay safe !

Times are hard for everyone in the spring of 2020, but especially businesses. Local and statewide ‘stay-at-home’ orders have reduced the number of customers coming into shops and making purchases. Furthermore, social distancing regulations enforced by public health will likely continue to keep traffic low. So how do businesses bring back the patrons? The Inn at Little Washington is getting creative to do two things: keep customers safe and offer a unique dining experience in the midst of a global pandemic.
Model Customers Take A Seat
To keep patrons more than six feet apart, the most common regulation to prevent the spread of COVID-19, daily operations are going to look strange in businesses everywhere. However, one Virginia restaurant is taking special steps to make guests feel more comfortable under these new regulations. Or at least that is what they are attempting to do.
Owners, in order to meet the Virginia Governor’s reopening restrictions for restaurants to operate at only fifty percent capacity, plan to fill most of their tables with ‘model’ diners. Thus, up to half of the tables could be seated with regular customers, and the other half will be occupied permanently by plastic clothing mannequins. Seems strange? Well, these mannequins won’t be just sitting idle, as all have been dressed in a 1940’s style and posed to match the ambiance of the restaurant. Some mannequins are on dates, others are engaged in business meetings, and one is even proposing to his girlfriend over their meal (which seems incredibly cute!). To add to the realism, waiters will offer the mannequins beverages from time to time too – including wine. (1, 2)
Tacky Or Tasteful?
The Inn at Little Washington is a world-renowned restaurant, and currently holds 3-Michelin star for dining excellence. Because of this prestige, some critics have cast judgment on the restaurant’s owners for pursuing this type of dining experience or pushing to operate during the pandemic. However, others are pleasantly intrigued and entertained by the idea of eating alongside mannequins. Anything to make life fun again, right? The Inn’s chef, Patrick O’Connell, told the Washingtonian, “I think it would do people a world of good to reduce their anxiety level when they come out to a place which is still unaffected”.
It should also be noted that this type of ‘whacky’ restaurant experience is not that uncommon for the Inn at Little Washington. In the past, the restaurant has offered customers cheese from a ‘mooing’ cow cart, and waiters have been instructed to speak exclusively in puns.
To make the mannequin concept a reality, the Inn partnered with two local businesses and created an entirely new menu to appropriate the atmospheric whimsy. To further prevent the spread of COVID-19 within the restaurant, the staff will also conduct routine deep cleanings with an infrared light and sport custom-made masks with Marilyn Monroe’s smile and George Washington’s chin. (1, 2)
How Other Restaurants May Manage Social Distancing
With no business exempt from social distancing, you should expect to see at least some changes at the stores, gyms, and restaurants you typically frequent. Restaurants may have some tables removed, barriers erected, and markings on the floor to direct customers movements in the establishment. But don’t be surprised to see even more creative solutions coming! From blow-up dolls to shower curtains, more unique ideas like the Inn’s are at play. (3) Just keep your eyes and mind open – and stay safe!


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-19--Cauliflower Bacon Biscuits with Jalapeño

Chewy on the outside and creamy on the inside , these Cauliflower Bacon Biscuits have a spicy kick !

I don’t often align myself with products but this is one that I just had to share!
Some of you may already know years ago, I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis.
I can still recall what it felt like to have my life change overnight…
I went from an Executive Director of a non-profit organization, running marathons, rock climbing, hiking canyons and kayaking to being completely bedridden and staring at a wall for 15 hours a day.
Of course, I went to see many doctors but unfortunately I didn’t find the help I needed. So, I had to set off on my own journey to learn my true path to healing.
I’d pretty much turned-over every rock trying to find relief for my pain, sleep issues and myriad of other symptoms…
Fast-forward 18 years.
I was determined to climb one of the true wonders of the natural world, Machu Picchu, the mystical home of the Incas in Peru.
It was there, after a grueling day when my feet, knees, legs, and lower back hurt so bad, that I thought I would have to abandon hopes of our next climb which was Rainbow Mountain! That night I pulled out a little spray bottle of “aceite de magnesio” that a friend had given me before I left on my trip.
What the heck, I thought. I was desperate. And I applied it all over my body before bed.
Because of the grueling day, I woke up expecting to be immobilized, but instead we were off to climb Rainbow Mountain and…I was totally pain-free!
I know it sounds impossible, but it’s 1000% the truth.


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-19--Artist Creates Posters Of US National Parks Based On Bad Internet Reviews, And They’re Amazing

The national parks of America are truly spectacular .
I don ’ t know how you can look at the incredible sights of Yosemite or ( my personal favorite ) Zion and think “ yeah that ’ s just a bunch of crappy dirt with some rocks sprinkled on it ” but apparently people can and do .
And they ’ re leaving a record of their terrible opinions all over the Internet .
Now designer and illustrator Amber Share has been turning the reviews into posters , which have gone viral over the last few days because they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this one-star review of Yellowstone .
“ I would give it 0 stars if I could .
I ’ ve traveled all across the States and this is by far the worst place I ’ ve been so far .
So the park itself is nothing grand , there are mountains , trees , and lakes .
Nothing too spectacular .
The one thing that makes this place different from other parks is the geysers .
I was extremely underwhelmed , ” the unimpressed visitor wrote .
“ They look SO much better @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a similar look just boil a pot of water at home .
Another issue is the lack of cell phone service , ” they continue , before complaining “ the food here sucks ” .
Their epic conclusion , as highlighted in this poster , is : Then there ’ s this brutal takedown of Capitol Reef National Park in Utah .
And one of the most beautiful places on the whole goddamn planet , Yosemite , in California ’ s Sierra Nevada mountains .
This one is just saying what we ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ few cases of “ well what in the name of hell were you expecting to see ?
” My favorite may be this person , who was disappointed that the astonishing beauty of Arches National Park in Utah didn ’ t live up to the expectations set by Utah ’ s license plates .
If you like these , be sure to follow subparparks for more .
“ For the next 61 weeks , I ’ ll be sharing an illustration of each of America ’ s lovely national parks , along with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of that park , ” Amber Share wrote on Instagram .
“ Because apparently even mother nature is subject to the wrath of the Internet.
” You might want to visit some of these places while you still can .
The Trump administration has made the largest attempts to remove and reduce protections for national parks and monuments in the States than any government in history .

The national parks of America are truly spectacular. I don’t know how you can look at the incredible sights of Yosemite or (my personal favorite) Zion and think “yeah that’s just a bunch of crappy dirt with some rocks sprinkled on it” but apparently people can and do. And they’re leaving a record of their terrible opinions all over the Internet.
Now designer and illustrator Amber Share has been turning the reviews into posters, which have gone viral over the last few days because they’re absolutely amazing.
Take for example this one-star review of Yellowstone.
“I would give it 0 stars if I could. I’ve traveled all across the States and this is by far the worst place I’ve been so far. So the park itself is nothing grand, there are mountains, trees, and lakes. Nothing too spectacular. The one thing that makes this place different from other parks is the geysers. I was extremely underwhelmed,” the unimpressed visitor wrote.
“They look SO much better in the pictures. If you want a similar look just boil a pot of water at home. Another issue is the lack of cell phone service,” they continue, before complaining “the food here sucks”.
Their epic conclusion, as highlighted in this poster, is:
Then there’s this brutal takedown of Capitol Reef National Park in Utah.
And one of the most beautiful places on the whole goddamn planet, Yosemite, in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains.
This one is just saying what we’re all thinking.
And now a few cases of “well what in the name of hell were you expecting to see?”
My favorite may be this person, who was disappointed that the astonishing beauty of Arches National Park in Utah didn’t live up to the expectations set by Utah’s license plates.
If you like these, be sure to follow subparparks for more.
“For the next 61 weeks, I’ll be sharing an illustration of each of America’s lovely national parks, along with a line from a real 1-star review of that park,” Amber Share wrote on Instagram. “Because apparently even mother nature is subject to the wrath of the Internet.”
You might want to visit some of these places while you still can. The Trump administration has made the largest attempts to remove and reduce protections for national parks and monuments in the States than any government in history.
Article shared with permission from IFL Science


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-19--People Are Weirded Out To Discover That Some People Don’t Have An Internal Monologue

I don ’ t know about you , but I ’ d always just assumed that even though people think different ( and mostly wrong – do better , everybody ) thoughts from myself , everyone sort of thinks in roughly the same way that I do .
Well , it turns out that is not the case at all , and I ’ m far from alone in my mistake .
A tweet went viral last week , and it ’ s sparked a lot of conversation about whether or not people have internal monologues .
For me , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has an internal monologue , and that monologue is voiced by Patrick Stewart .
It ’ s odd to learn that a lot of people don ’ t have this at all , or it ’ s portrayed by someone other than Captain Picard .
Most people do genuinely seem surprised to learn about people thinking in the opposite way to them .
Ask people around you and you ’ ll likely find someone who doesn ’ t think the way you do .
A colleague ( Tom Hale ) told me he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and responded with annoyance when I suggested that his lack of internal monologue made him like a non-playable character in a video game , or a Buddhist monk that ’ s achieved enlightenment .
“ Do you walk around saying in your head ‘ OK , up the stairs , then open the door , then I shall open the toilet seat ’ , ” he asked me , in a confrontational manner .
“ I just think in abstract terms , I guess ?
If I want a coffee , I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( like a maniac ) ‘ I am a bit tired and thirsty , I shall make myself a coffee ’ .
I just think about it abstractly , maybe imagine walking over to the kettle , etc.
” Something experienced by a lot of people online .
For me , in reality , it ’ s a bit of a mix .
For mundane tasks , I don ’ t think [ Patrick Stewart voice ] “ I am hungry now , some porridge I shall consume !
” .
This is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ image of porridge accompanied by a feeling of hunger .
But more complex stuff , like thoughts about what I want to do over the next year or so , will be done through an inner monologue , sometimes with a cockney accent just to keep things fresh .
For the large part , I will have full conversations inside my head , sometimes like an argument where I ’ ll dismiss something my inner monologue has said a second ago .
It ’ s basically like what happens on British sitcom Peep @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beneath the viral post on inner monologues showed that the majority of people experience their thoughts as words ( currently around 58 percent ) , with 14 percent experiencing thoughts as concepts , and 19 percent experiencing both .
For me , in reality , it ’ s a bit of a mix .
For mundane tasks , I don ’ t think [ Patrick Stewart voice ] “ I am hungry now , some porridge I shall consume !
” .
This is all done in abstract , maybe an image of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
But more complex stuff , like thoughts about what I want to do over the next year or so , will be done through an inner monologue , sometimes with a cockney accent just to keep things fresh .
For the large part , I will have full conversations inside my head , sometimes like an argument where I ’ ll dismiss something my inner monologue has said a second ago .
It ’ s basically like what happens on British sitcom Peep Show .
A ( non-scientific ) poll beneath the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the majority of people experience their thoughts as words ( currently around 58 percent ) , with 14 percent experiencing thoughts as concepts , and 19 percent experiencing both .
In more scientific studies , it seems people experience more of a mix than the self-selected responders to a viral post that implied it was either/or .
A small study in 2011 tried to get a better picture of how people think .
They gave beepers ( Patrick Stewart impersonating an observational comedian voice : Remember beepers ?
What ’ s the deal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sample of students .
When the beeper went off , they had to note down what was going on inside their heads moments before it went off .
This went on for several weeks , to get them used to it and then to get an accurate picture of what was happening inside their minds .
“ Subjects experienced themselves as inwardly talking to themselves in 26 percent of all samples , ” the team wrote in Psychology Today .
“ But there were large individual differences : some subjects never experienced inner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in as many as 75 percent of their samples .
The median percentage across subjects was 20 percent .
“ Some people talk to themselves a lot , some never , some occasionally.
” In case you ’ re wondering , deaf people have reported having an internal monologue too .
“ I have a ‘ voice ’ in my head , but it is not sound-based , ” one person who was born deaf wrote .
“ I am a visual being , so in my head , I either see ASL @ @ @ @ @ @ @ printed words.
” There are also people out there who can ’ t picture things in their heads , known as aphantasia .

I don’t know about you, but I’d always just assumed that even though people think different (and mostly wrong – do better, everybody) thoughts from myself, everyone sort of thinks in roughly the same way that I do.
Well, it turns out that is not the case at all, and I’m far from alone in my mistake. A tweet went viral last week, and it’s sparked a lot of conversation about whether or not people have internal monologues.
Fun fact: some people have an internal narrative and some don’t As in, some people’s thoughts are like sentences they “hear”, and some people just have abstract non-verbal thoughts, and have to consciously verbalize them And most people aren’t aware of the other type of person — Kyle 🌱 (@KylePlantEmoji) January 27, 2020
For me, I’d always assumed that everybody has an internal monologue, and that monologue is voiced by Patrick Stewart. It’s odd to learn that a lot of people don’t have this at all, or it’s portrayed by someone other than Captain Picard.
Most people do genuinely seem surprised to learn about people thinking in the opposite way to them.
I’m sitting here trying to imagine what hearing your own voice in your head constantly narrating your every waking moment feels like and I’m so fucking glad my mind doesn’t do this. https://t.co/uh4xHXBFe8 — Jeanna Louise Skinner (@JeannaLStars) February 2, 2020
So not everyone has a voice inside their head that never, ever shuts up? My internal narrative and I find this almost impossible to comprehend. https://t.co/pRk4VaQGM1 — Kathryn Foxfield 🎠 (@iloveweirdbooks) January 28, 2020
This thread is fascinating and blowing my mind. I can think in fully formed sentences if I need to, but the idea many of you have constant, never-ending, Virginia Woolf-esque trains of thought—properly expressed in language—is incredible. https://t.co/D1mxNYladc — Benjamin Law 羅旭能 (@mrbenjaminlaw) January 31, 2020
wait is this real? how do u think if not in sentences in ur head??? https://t.co/tVptwdftjj — Riley J. Dennis (@RileyJayDennis) January 27, 2020
This is so wild to me I can’t imagine thinking in actual sentences and hearing an internal monologue. People really think in sentences???? https://t.co/McreMtBK5a — WitchyTwitchy Ⓥ (@witchytwitchytv) January 27, 2020
This thread is fascinating and blowing my mind. I can think in fully formed sentences if I need to, but the idea many of you have constant, never-ending, Virginia Woolf-esque trains of thought—properly expressed in language—is incredible. https://t.co/D1mxNYladc — Benjamin Law 羅旭能 (@mrbenjaminlaw) January 31, 2020
Ask people around you and you’ll likely find someone who doesn’t think the way you do.
A colleague (Tom Hale) told me he doesn’t hear an internal monologue, and responded with annoyance when I suggested that his lack of internal monologue made him like a non-playable character in a video game, or a Buddhist monk that’s achieved enlightenment.
Fun fact: some people have an internal narrative and some don’t As in, some people’s thoughts are like sentences they “hear”, and some people just have abstract non-verbal thoughts, and have to consciously verbalize them And most people aren’t aware of the other type of person — Kyle 🌱 (@KylePlantEmoji) January 27, 2020
“Do you walk around saying in your head ‘OK, up the stairs, then open the door, then I shall open the toilet seat’,” he asked me, in a confrontational manner. “I just think in abstract terms, I guess? If I want a coffee, I won’t say in my head (like a maniac) ‘I am a bit tired and thirsty, I shall make myself a coffee’. I just think about it abstractly, maybe imagine walking over to the kettle, etc.”
Something experienced by a lot of people online.
my thoughts are def the abstract ones. if they contain words, it’s more or less just fragments & not complete sentences until they’re coming out. i think it’s why i stumble over my words so often, stutter, always 5 levels ahead of whatever I’m actually saying, rambling, etc — dirt speck🥀 (@shelbzazaaz) January 27, 2020
For me, in reality, it’s a bit of a mix. For mundane tasks, I don’t think [Patrick Stewart voice] “I am hungry now, some porridge I shall consume!”. This is all done in abstract, maybe an image of porridge accompanied by a feeling of hunger. But more complex stuff, like thoughts about what I want to do over the next year or so, will be done through an inner monologue, sometimes with a cockney accent just to keep things fresh.
For the large part, I will have full conversations inside my head, sometimes like an argument where I’ll dismiss something my inner monologue has said a second ago. It’s basically like what happens on British sitcom Peep Show.
A (non-scientific) poll beneath the viral post on inner monologues showed that the majority of people experience their thoughts as words (currently around 58 percent), with 14 percent experiencing thoughts as concepts, and 19 percent experiencing both.
For me, in reality, it’s a bit of a mix. For mundane tasks, I don’t think [Patrick Stewart voice] “I am hungry now, some porridge I shall consume!”. This is all done in abstract, maybe an image of porridge accompanied by a feeling of hunger. But more complex stuff, like thoughts about what I want to do over the next year or so, will be done through an inner monologue, sometimes with a cockney accent just to keep things fresh. For the large part, I will have full conversations inside my head, sometimes like an argument where I’ll dismiss something my inner monologue has said a second ago. It’s basically like what happens on British sitcom Peep Show. A (non-scientific) poll beneath the viral post on inner monologues showed that the majority of people experience their thoughts as words (currently around 58 percent), with 14 percent experiencing thoughts as concepts, and 19 percent experiencing both.
For me, in reality, it’s a bit of a mix. For mundane tasks, I don’t think [Patrick Stewart voice] “I am hungry now, some porridge I shall consume!”. This is all done in abstract, maybe an image of porridge accompanied by a feeling of hunger. But more complex stuff, like thoughts about what I want to do over the next year or so, will be done through an inner monologue, sometimes with a cockney accent just to keep things fresh.
For the large part, I will have full conversations inside my head, sometimes like an argument where I’ll dismiss something my inner monologue has said a second ago. It’s basically like what happens on British sitcom Peep Show.
A (non-scientific) poll beneath the viral post on inner monologues showed that the majority of people experience their thoughts as words (currently around 58 percent), with 14 percent experiencing thoughts as concepts, and 19 percent experiencing both.
Huh, I’d love to see a poll on how many people are what — Alex Engelberg (@aengelbro) January 27, 2020
In more scientific studies, it seems people experience more of a mix than the self-selected responders to a viral post that implied it was either/or.
A small study in 2011 tried to get a better picture of how people think. They gave beepers (Patrick Stewart impersonating an observational comedian voice: Remember beepers? What’s the deal with beepers?) to a random sample of students. When the beeper went off, they had to note down what was going on inside their heads moments before it went off. This went on for several weeks, to get them used to it and then to get an accurate picture of what was happening inside their minds.
“Subjects experienced themselves as inwardly talking to themselves in 26 percent of all samples,” the team wrote in Psychology Today. “But there were large individual differences: some subjects never experienced inner speech; other subjects experienced inner speech in as many as 75 percent of their samples. The median percentage across subjects was 20 percent.
“Some people talk to themselves a lot, some never, some occasionally.”
In case you’re wondering, deaf people have reported having an internal monologue too.
“I have a ‘voice’ in my head, but it is not sound-based,” one person who was born deaf wrote. “I am a visual being, so in my head, I either see ASL signs, or pictures, or sometimes printed words.”
There are also people out there who can’t picture things in their heads, known as aphantasia.
Article shared with permission IFL Science


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-20--Carmine: A Food Colorant Made From Crushed Bugs?!

You know those bright red lollipops , candies , ice creams and baked goods ?
Chances are they ’ re made with carmine , a common red food and cosmetic dye .
Unlike other natural food dyes , like annatto — which comes from the seeds of the achiote tree carmine is made with crushed insects .
That ’ s right — insects that are dried , ground and used to make a colorant .
On the other hand , this red colorant is not made from synthetic , potentially dangerous ingredients like coal or petroleum ( like Red dye @ @ @ @ @ @ @ considered the healthiest option ?
Carmine does come with potential side effects , and it is , after all , made with insects , so it may be best to avoid it altogether .
Carmine is a dye that ’ s found in some food products to create a red color .
The food colorant is also called cochineal extract , which comes from the insect species Dactylopius coccus Costa .
These cochineal bugs used to harvest carmine are mainly harvested in Peru and the Canary Islands , where the insects live on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ back to the 1500s , when the Aztecs used these insects to dye fabrics .
You may understand the use of insects to make dyes back when resources were limited , but what ’ s the purpose of carmine food dye today ?
The main purpose is to make packaged foods appear more vibrant .
So you may wonder : Is it really necessary to kill thousands and thousands of insects just so our foods appear more red ?
The red dye is used in a range of food and cosmetic products , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of dye that ’ s also made with carminic acid , but it does not derive from cochineal insects .
How Is It Made ?
Carmine is made by crushing the female cochineal insect .
The insects are harvested , sun-dried and crushed .
They are then put into an acidic solution that produces carminic acid .
This creates a very bright red dye that can be altered with the use of borax or other solutions .
The pigment that results is carmine extract , and it ’ s used as a red @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of foods and body products .
This is one of the oldest human uses of an insect for natural dye .
There are reports that it takes about 70,000 insects to produce just one pound of dye , and we know that even after the colorant is combined with solutions , insect proteins are still present in the dyed foods or body products .
Carmine may cause severe allergic reactions , which is why it needs to be labeled specifically as carmine or cochineal extract on ingredient labels .
It no longer falls @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” Research shows that carmine can cause allergic reactions through direct contact , inhalation and digestion .
There have been reports of occupational asthma due to carmine exposure in factories as well .
A 2001 study indicates that carmine food dye retains protein-aceous material from the crushed bugs .
These proteins are responsible for the IgE-mediated carmine allergy .
Thus when people with an insect protein allergy eat foods or use products containing the food dye , they experience food allergy symptoms .
A study published in Annals of Allergy , Asthma and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at doses of one milligram , even though the acceptable daily intake was up to five milligrams per kilogram of body weight .
The point is , it doesn ’ t take a large amount of the food dye to experience serious allergic reactions .
Aside from the risk of an allergic reaction , carmine is considered safe , as it ’ s a natural substance and isn ’ t linked to any specific health risks .
This is far from the case for other dyes like Red 40 , which comes from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ has been linked to health issues like cancer .
In some cases , carmine color can cause severe allergic reactions , even in very small doses .
These carmine side effects may occur in people who are allergic to the insect proteins and can develop after direct contact ( like with a lipstick or lotion ) , inhalation or consumption .
Some carmine allergy symptoms that may occur include face swelling , rash , redness and wheezing .
For people following a kosher diet , vegan diet or vegetarian diet , consuming foods @ @ @ @ @ @ @ food coloring wouldn ’ t be appropriate .
How to Avoid It Carmine red dye is found in some processed and packaged foods , cosmetics , and body products .
In foods , it is listed on the ingredient label as : The only way to completely avoid the red food coloring is by reading the ingredient label .
Be sure to check the common food culprits carefully , like candies , colored yogurts , cake mixes and juices .
• Did you have any idea that a natural food dye used in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ crushed bugs ?
• Carmine , a red food dye , is made from cochineal , an insect that ’ s found in Peru and the Canary Islands .
The bugs are sun-dried , crushed and combined with an acidic solution to create food and cosmetic colorant .
• If eating or applying bugs isn ’ t enough to make you avoid this colorant , there ’ s also the chance of experiencing allergy symptoms , like face swelling and wheezing .
Aside from these side effects , the colorant is recognized as @ @

You know those bright red lollipops, candies, ice creams and baked goods? Chances are they’re made with carmine, a common red food and cosmetic dye.
Unlike other natural food dyes, like annatto — which comes from the seeds of the achiote tree carmine is made with crushed insects. That’s right — insects that are dried, ground and used to make a colorant.
On the other hand, this red colorant is not made from synthetic, potentially dangerous ingredients like coal or petroleum (like Red dye 40), so could it be considered the healthiest option?
Carmine does come with potential side effects, and it is, after all, made with insects, so it may be best to avoid it altogether.
What Is Carmine?
Carmine is a dye that’s found in some food products to create a red color. The food colorant is also called cochineal extract, which comes from the insect species Dactylopius coccus Costa.
These cochineal bugs used to harvest carmine are mainly harvested in Peru and the Canary Islands, where the insects live on prickly pear cacti.
Carmine uses date back to the 1500s, when the Aztecs used these insects to dye fabrics. You may understand the use of insects to make dyes back when resources were limited, but what’s the purpose of carmine food dye today?
The main purpose is to make packaged foods appear more vibrant. So you may wonder: Is it really necessary to kill thousands and thousands of insects just so our foods appear more red?
The red dye is used in a range of food and cosmetic products, including:
Candy
Ice cream
Children’s snacks
Cake mix
Juices
Burgers
Sausages
Yogurt
Lip sticks
Eyeshadows
Shampoos
Lotions
Pill coatings
Indigo carmine is another type of dye that’s also made with carminic acid, but it does not derive from cochineal insects.
How Is It Made?
Carmine is made by crushing the female cochineal insect. The insects are harvested, sun-dried and crushed.
They are then put into an acidic solution that produces carminic acid. This creates a very bright red dye that can be altered with the use of borax or other solutions.
The pigment that results is carmine extract, and it’s used as a red “natural color” in a range of foods and body products.
This is one of the oldest human uses of an insect for natural dye. There are reports that it takes about 70,000 insects to produce just one pound of dye, and we know that even after the colorant is combined with solutions, insect proteins are still present in the dyed foods or body products.
Is It a Safe Food Dye?
Carmine may cause severe allergic reactions, which is why it needs to be labeled specifically as carmine or cochineal extract on ingredient labels.
It no longer falls under the umbrella term “natural color.”
Research shows that carmine can cause allergic reactions through direct contact, inhalation and digestion. There have been reports of occupational asthma due to carmine exposure in factories as well.
A 2001 study indicates that carmine food dye retains protein-aceous material from the crushed bugs. These proteins are responsible for the IgE-mediated carmine allergy.
Thus when people with an insect protein allergy eat foods or use products containing the food dye, they experience food allergy symptoms.
A study published in Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology found that carmine can trigger anaphylaxis at doses of one milligram, even though the acceptable daily intake was up to five milligrams per kilogram of body weight. The point is, it doesn’t take a large amount of the food dye to experience serious allergic reactions.
Aside from the risk of an allergic reaction, carmine is considered safe, as it’s a natural substance and isn’t linked to any specific health risks. This is far from the case for other dyes like Red 40, which comes from petroleum distillates and coal tars — and has been linked to health issues like cancer.
Risks and Side Effects
In some cases, carmine color can cause severe allergic reactions, even in very small doses. These carmine side effects may occur in people who are allergic to the insect proteins and can develop after direct contact (like with a lipstick or lotion), inhalation or consumption.
Some carmine allergy symptoms that may occur include face swelling, rash, redness and wheezing.
For people following a kosher diet, vegan diet or vegetarian diet, consuming foods or using cosmetic products containing the red food coloring wouldn’t be appropriate.
How to Avoid It
Carmine red dye is found in some processed and packaged foods, cosmetics, and body products. In foods, it is listed on the ingredient label as:
Carmine
Cochineal
Cochineal extract
Carminic acid
Natural Red 4
Crimson lake
Carmine lake
The only way to completely avoid the red food coloring is by reading the ingredient label. Be sure to check the common food culprits carefully, like candies, colored yogurts, cake mixes and juices.
Conclusion
Did you have any idea that a natural food dye used in commonly consumed packaged foods is made with crushed bugs?
Carmine, a red food dye, is made from cochineal, an insect that’s found in Peru and the Canary Islands. The bugs are sun-dried, crushed and combined with an acidic solution to create food and cosmetic colorant.
If eating or applying bugs isn’t enough to make you avoid this colorant, there’s also the chance of experiencing allergy symptoms, like face swelling and wheezing. Aside from these side effects, the colorant is recognized as safe.
Article shared with permission from DRAXE.com


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-20--Kentucky Sees Sharpest Rise In Covid-19 Cases Following Anti-Lockdown Protests

The coronavirus pandemic is still in full swing as America becomes the epicenter for disease .
While cases globally are still rising , some of the worst affected areas in Europe are starting to see a reduction in deaths and emerging cases thanks to lockdown measures that saw one third of humanity staying at home to prevent the spread of the deadly pathogen .
Despite these positive results , there are groups in parts of America now protesting against lockdown measures .
An anti-lockdown protest in Kentucky attended by 100 people was followed by the sharpest rise in cases since @ @ @ @ @ @ @ demonstrating the importance of lockdown in the face of those who disagree with it .
At time of writing , the US has seen over 45,000 deaths from the Covid-19 disease and has over 825,000 confirmed cases .
Despite being announced as the epicenter for the deadly disease , some areas of the country are easing lockdown measures while the majority of the country remains under stay at home orders .
Led by Governor Andy Beshear , Kentucky is still under restrictions and will remain so until the region has seen a decline @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a minimum of 14 days , as per the White House guidelines .
The continuation of restrictions has triggered protest action from angry citizens who are desperate for local businesses to reopen , with over 500,000 Kentucky residents having filed for unemployment in March .
Protests in Frankfort climaxed last week as around 100 citizens rallied to end lockdown .
In a press conference on Sunday , April 19 , Governor Beshear reported that , following the protests , 273 new cases of COVID-19 had been confirmed , constituting the highest daily increase @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the pandemic began .
The Kentucky Department of Health reports that the current number of cases is now 2,960 with 148 fatalities from the disease .
According to a report from the Courier-Journal , the protest took place last Wednesday ( April 15 ) and saw around 100 participants denouncing Beshear ’ s adherence to the vital lockdown measures with slogans including “ You ’ re not the King .
We won ’ t kiss your ring , ” while failing to observe the recommended physical distance from each other or wear protective @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Kentucky , Matt Bevin , the chants were aimed at Beshear , who was giving a Covid-19 update in a room nearby , for enforcing social-distancing orders that prevented residents from working .
Over 10 million Americans have applied for unemployment benefits since the outbreak .
The emotion is catching across the country , as in Denver , Colorado , nurses formed a counter-protest against lockdown protestors , blocking their cars in the road by standing defiantly in their scrubs .
Colorado currently has over 10,000 confirmed cases and has seen 468 deaths @ @ @

The coronavirus pandemic is still in full swing as America becomes the epicenter for disease. While cases globally are still rising, some of the worst affected areas in Europe are starting to see a reduction in deaths and emerging cases thanks to lockdown measures that saw one third of humanity staying at home to prevent the spread of the deadly pathogen. Despite these positive results, there are groups in parts of America now protesting against lockdown measures. An anti-lockdown protest in Kentucky attended by 100 people was followed by the sharpest rise in cases since coronavirus arrived in the area, ironically demonstrating the importance of lockdown in the face of those who disagree with it.
At time of writing, the US has seen over 45,000 deaths from the Covid-19 disease and has over 825,000 confirmed cases. Despite being announced as the epicenter for the deadly disease, some areas of the country are easing lockdown measures while the majority of the country remains under stay at home orders. Led by Governor Andy Beshear, Kentucky is still under restrictions and will remain so until the region has seen a decline in the number of reported cases for a minimum of 14 days, as per the White House guidelines.
The continuation of restrictions has triggered protest action from angry citizens who are desperate for local businesses to reopen, with over 500,000 Kentucky residents having filed for unemployment in March. Protests in Frankfort climaxed last week as around 100 citizens rallied to end lockdown.
In a press conference on Sunday, April 19, Governor Beshear reported that, following the protests, 273 new cases of COVID-19 had been confirmed, constituting the highest daily increase in cases the region has announced since the pandemic began. The Kentucky Department of Health reports that the current number of cases is now 2,960 with 148 fatalities from the disease.
According to a report from the Courier-Journal, the protest took place last Wednesday (April 15) and saw around 100 participants denouncing Beshear’s adherence to the vital lockdown measures with slogans including “You’re not the King. We won’t kiss your ring,” while failing to observe the recommended physical distance from each other or wear protective items. Led by former Governor of Kentucky, Matt Bevin, the chants were aimed at Beshear, who was giving a Covid-19 update in a room nearby, for enforcing social-distancing orders that prevented residents from working. Over 10 million Americans have applied for unemployment benefits since the outbreak.
The emotion is catching across the country, as in Denver, Colorado, nurses formed a counter-protest against lockdown protestors, blocking their cars in the road by standing defiantly in their scrubs. Colorado currently has over 10,000 confirmed cases and has seen 468 deaths from Covid-19.
This gif explains the importance of staying home in 10 seconds. Stay home, save lives. pic.twitter.com/vY1vztnWOU — IFLScience (@IFLScience) March 23, 2020
Shared with permission from IFL Science


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-20--Coconut Flour Banana Bread Recipe with Zero Gluten

Want a super easy treat that uses up those ripening bananas on your counter ?
Try this recipe for Paleo @ @ @ @ @ up soft , moist , fluffy , and sweet !
This loaf is nut-free , @ @ @ @ @ refined sugar .
The eggs contribute a sizable amount of nutrients and protein while the @ @ @ @ @ fiber and low in carbohydrates .
Additionally , making this healthy Paleo banana bread is @ @ @ @ @ Just mash some bananas , mix in some eggs , and toss in a few @ @ @ @ @ non-Paleo eaters won ’ t guess that this soft , fluffy , sweet bread is @ @ @ @ @ it with fruit jam for an extra-yummy snack .
Furthermore , you can serve the @ @ @ @ @ as Paleo French toast the next morning .
So use up those ripe bananas and @ @ @ @ @ banana bread – you ’ ll be glad you did !

Want a super easy treat that uses up those ripening bananas on your counter? Try this recipe for Paleo Banana Bread. It bakes up soft, moist, fluffy, and sweet!
This loaf is nut-free, grain-free, and contains zero refined sugar. The eggs contribute a sizable amount of nutrients and protein while the coconut flour is full of fiber and low in carbohydrates.
Additionally, making this healthy Paleo banana bread is super easy to make. Just mash some bananas, mix in some eggs, and toss in a few ingredients for baking!
Even non-Paleo eaters won’t guess that this soft, fluffy, sweet bread is free of grains. Pair it with fruit jam for an extra-yummy snack.
Furthermore, you can serve the leftovers chilled or cook it as Paleo French toast the next morning.
So use up those ripe bananas and make a loaf of Paleo banana bread – you’ll be glad you did!
Total time: 55 mins Cook Time: 45 mins Prep Time: 10 mins Serves: 8-10 slices


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-20--8 Freeze-Friendly Chicken Marinades

8 Freeze-Friendly Chicken Marinades

These no-fail chicken marinades make dinnertime a breeze and are perfect for warm weather grilling !
No more boring chicken dinners !
Marinating is a simple way to infuse bland chicken with big flavor , making the meat moist , tender , and juicy .
Your freezer or refrigerator will work as your sous chef , marrying the flavors and storing the chicken dinners for when you ’ re ready to cook them .
With marinating , the options are endless , and a few pantry staples can go a long way in creating a good marinade .
A marinade @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or lemon that is used tenderize the protein .
To the acid , any combination of seasonings , spices and herbs can be used to flavor the chicken to whatever your taste buds are craving !
To keep the meat moist , you ’ ll be adding extra virgin olive oil .
Adding the oil also makes the chicken easy to prepare .
Just toss on the grill , in the oven , or in a pan , and kick back while it cooks .
These marinade recipes come in eight flavors : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ginger teriyaki , coconut curry , chimichurri , balsamic , chipotle and honey mustard .
They ’ re super easy to create and make for great go-to chicken marinades when you ’ re in a pinch .
Each of the following marinades makes enough to coat one pound of chicken .
That is enough for two large boneless , skinless breasts in a 1-quart bag .
For larger dinners , the quantities can be doubled .
Add the ingredients for the marinade in the bag and shake to mix .
Next , place @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top , and turn to coat the chicken .
Place your marinated chicken in the refrigerator ( if making within 24 hours ) , otherwise freeze until ready to cook .
It ’ s that easy !
When you ’ re ready to cook , the chicken and marinade are ready to go .
All that ’ s left to do is decide whether you want to grill , sauté , or bake your chicken .
If you ’ re busy during the weekday , make these chicken marinades on a Sunday and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ throughout the week .

These no-fail chicken marinades make dinnertime a breeze and are perfect for warm weather grilling!
No more boring chicken dinners! Marinating is a simple way to infuse bland chicken with big flavor, making the meat moist, tender, and juicy. Your freezer or refrigerator will work as your sous chef, marrying the flavors and storing the chicken dinners for when you’re ready to cook them.
With marinating, the options are endless, and a few pantry staples can go a long way in creating a good marinade. A marinade consists of an acid-like vinegar, mustard or lemon that is used tenderize the protein. To the acid, any combination of seasonings, spices and herbs can be used to flavor the chicken to whatever your taste buds are craving!
To keep the meat moist, you’ll be adding extra virgin olive oil. Adding the oil also makes the chicken easy to prepare. Just toss on the grill, in the oven, or in a pan, and kick back while it cooks.
These marinade recipes come in eight flavors: sweet and sour, lemon garlic, ginger teriyaki, coconut curry, chimichurri, balsamic, chipotle and honey mustard. They’re super easy to create and make for great go-to chicken marinades when you’re in a pinch.
Each of the following marinades makes enough to coat one pound of chicken. That is enough for two large boneless, skinless breasts in a 1-quart bag. For larger dinners, the quantities can be doubled.
Add the ingredients for the marinade in the bag and shake to mix. Next, place chicken in the bag, seal the top, and turn to coat the chicken. Place your marinated chicken in the refrigerator (if making within 24 hours), otherwise freeze until ready to cook. It’s that easy!
When you’re ready to cook, the chicken and marinade are ready to go. All that’s left to do is decide whether you want to grill, sauté, or bake your chicken. If you’re busy during the weekday, make these chicken marinades on a Sunday and freeze them so you have ready-to-cook dishes throughout the week.
Total time: 25 mins Cook Time: 20 mins Prep Time: 5 mins Serves: 2


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-20--Snoop Dogg Uses ‘Frozen’ To Encourage People To ‘Let It Go’– And Idina Menzel Responds

Perhaps you ’ ve seen the now-iconic video posted on Instagram on May 10th , 2020 .
Snoop Dogg sits in his car , in Inglewood , California .
“ I had to come to my car and listen , ” he says .
And , if you haven ’ t had a chance to watch this delightful video , his choice of song might surprise you .
Snoop Dogg is jamming out to 2013 ’ s hit single– “ Let It Go , ” from Disney ’ s Frozen .
“ Let it go , ” he advises .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” The video delighted fans all over the internet–and now , the voice of Elsa , Idina Menzel herself , has responded .
( 1 ) On May 14th , 2020 , Idina Menzel took to Twitter , tagging Snoop Dogg ( born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. ) in a video of her bobbing her head and rapping along to Snoop Dogg ’ s 2004 song , “ Drop It Like It ’ s Hot.
” “ We ’ re all going to get out of this soon , ” she reassures viewers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , we can all just drop it like it ’ s hot.
” She captioned her video “ Could have sworn it was drop it like its ( sic ) hard .
Learn something new everyday.
” One can ’ t really blame Idina Menzel for not knowing the title .
Menzel is a Broadway actress–not necessarily the profession associated with hip-hop expertise , the success of Hamilton aside .
Regardless , she does a pretty great job with the Snoop Dogg song .
( 2 ) The humor and charm of Idina @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s videos delighted fans .
Using the titles of each other ’ s songs in messages to encourage people to keep their spirits high is a particularly sweet touch .
Twitter user WickedRegal ( @ WickedRegal ) agrees , saying “ This friendship is one of the best blessings that came out this situation.
” Furious Feminist To Your Left ( @ RoarWomenRoar ) looks forward to the future , saying “ I would pay a reasonable sum to hear a collaboration between @ idinamenzel and @ SnoopDogg .
‘ Let it Go @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ .
” Maybe this will be the centerpiece of Frozen 3 .
Or , with the rise of the hip-hop musical , maybe the next place we ’ ll see Snoop Dogg–after lockdown is over–is treading the boards on Broadway .
No matter what happens , we all can ’ t wait to see !
( 3 , 4 ) What They ’ re Up To Now Even though the world ’ s at a standstill right now , these celebrities are still keeping busy .
Idina Menzel sang in the Tina @ @ @ @ @ @ @ York on Monday , May 11th , 2020 .
Menzel , alongside stars such as Alicia Keys , Lin-Manuel Miranda , Jennifer Lopez , Bon Jovi , Sting , and Mariah Carey , among others .
The Rise Up New York benefit raised over $ 115 million in donations to help New Yorkers with the struggles brought on by the novel coronavirus .
Meanwhile , on Tuesday , May 19th , Snoop Dogg released a new song .
“ Who can relate ?
!
New song “ I Wan na Go Outside ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Stream the song now https : //empire.ffm.to/iwannagooutside.
” I ’ m sure we can all relate with Snoop Dogg ’ s sentiment–but it ’ s important to remember the positive messages behind these original two videos : just stay strong .
We can do this , if we put our minds to it .
It will be over soon .
( 1 , 5 )

Perhaps you’ve seen the now-iconic video posted on Instagram on May 10th, 2020. Snoop Dogg sits in his car, in Inglewood, California. “I had to come to my car and listen,” he says. And, if you haven’t had a chance to watch this delightful video, his choice of song might surprise you. Snoop Dogg is jamming out to 2013’s hit single– “Let It Go,” from Disney’s Frozen. “Let it go,” he advises. “We’ll be outside soon.” The video delighted fans all over the internet–and now, the voice of Elsa, Idina Menzel herself, has responded. (1)
“Learn Something New Everyday”
On May 14th, 2020, Idina Menzel took to Twitter, tagging Snoop Dogg (born Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr.) in a video of her bobbing her head and rapping along to Snoop Dogg’s 2004 song, “Drop It Like It’s Hot.”
“We’re all going to get out of this soon,” she reassures viewers. “Like you said, Snoop, we can all just drop it like it’s hot.” She captioned her video “Could have sworn it was drop it like its (sic) hard. Learn something new everyday.” One can’t really blame Idina Menzel for not knowing the title. Menzel is a Broadway actress–not necessarily the profession associated with hip-hop expertise, the success of Hamilton aside. Regardless, she does a pretty great job with the Snoop Dogg song. (2)
Fan Reaction
The humor and charm of Idina Menzel’s and Snoop Dogg’s videos delighted fans. Using the titles of each other’s songs in messages to encourage people to keep their spirits high is a particularly sweet touch. Twitter user WickedRegal (@WickedRegal) agrees, saying “This friendship is one of the best blessings that came out this situation.” Furious Feminist To Your Left (@RoarWomenRoar) looks forward to the future, saying “I would pay a reasonable sum to hear a collaboration between @idinamenzel and @SnoopDogg. ‘Let it Go, ‘Cause It’s Hot’.” Maybe this will be the centerpiece of Frozen 3. Or, with the rise of the hip-hop musical, maybe the next place we’ll see Snoop Dogg–after lockdown is over–is treading the boards on Broadway. No matter what happens, we all can’t wait to see! (3, 4)
What They’re Up To Now
Even though the world’s at a standstill right now, these celebrities are still keeping busy. Idina Menzel sang in the Tina Fey COVID-19 benefit, Rise Up New York on Monday, May 11th, 2020. Menzel, alongside stars such as Alicia Keys, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Jennifer Lopez, Bon Jovi, Sting, and Mariah Carey, among others. The Rise Up New York benefit raised over $115 million in donations to help New Yorkers with the struggles brought on by the novel coronavirus.
Meanwhile, on Tuesday, May 19th, Snoop Dogg released a new song. “Who can relate?! New song “I Wanna Go Outside” produced by Soopafly,” he tweeted. “Stream the song now https://empire.ffm.to/iwannagooutside.” I’m sure we can all relate with Snoop Dogg’s sentiment–but it’s important to remember the positive messages behind these original two videos: just stay strong. We can do this, if we put our minds to it. It will be over soon. (1, 5)


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-19--The sun has not entered a ‘lockdown’ period, which could cause freezing weather, famine


healthyholisticliving--2020-05-21--Baby Calf Dies By Mother’s Side After Eating Birthday Balloon

Balloons always seem so cheerful .
Their bright colors and interesting shapes have long been a decorative touch for parties and a fun thing for young kids to clutch in their tiny fists .
However , balloons are proving to be a dangerous source of pollution that can put wildlife at risk .
A family in Beckingham , England found this out the hard way .
( 1 ) Sharon Lay and her fiancé Adrian experienced a devastating loss at the hands of a discarded birthday balloon .
The couple ’ s six-month-old calf became fatally ill after unwittingly eating @ @ @ @ @ @ @ calf , Lisa , experienced a week of severe suffering and died despite her fight to survive .
“ She wouldn ’ t give up , she was fighting it , ” says Sharon .
“ It ’ s horrible .
If she had got an infection or became ill , you would understand .
But this is so needless.
” ( 1 ) Adoptive Mom Tried To Help The calf ’ s condition caused distress for the family and Lisa ’ s mother .
The calf was purchased to offer comfort to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ own calf .
“ Her mum lost her calf giving birth six months ago , so we had decided to get Lisa for her , ” says Sharon .
Sharon ’ s family brought the sick calf back to her adoptive mother so they could be together in the field .
( 1 ) “ After she had died , we found she was wet – her mum had been licking her trying to wake her up , ” says Sharon .
“ She wouldn ’ t leave her side .
When we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ running around the tractor trying to get it to stop.
” ( 1 ) The couple was alerted to Lisa ’ s condition by a member of the public .
“ A passerby rang the landlord saying they had seen a cow staggering in the field , ” says Sharon .
( 1 ) The vet was called and discovered the blockage in the calf ’ s bowels .
“ The vet said she had eaten something , and it was lodged in her bowel .
There was nothing we could do ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gone too far.
” ( 1 ) “ We found half the balloon and our hearts sank , ” says Sharon .
“ It said ‘ Happy 70th birthday ’ on it , but now Lisa won ’ t even make it to seven months.
” The couple and their 13-year-old foster daughter tried to nurse the calf back to health without luck .
( 1 ) “ We were using a bucket and cup to give her water as she couldn ’ t keep her head up .
We went up every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ says Sharon .
“ Her mum and the other cows would lick us – that ’ s how they show their appreciation we were trying to help .
We were rolling her , trying to get her up but she couldn ’ t. ” ( 1 ) Following the agonizing week watching the poor calf die , Sharon is asking people to be cautious with their rubbish .
“ I know that some people accidentally let go of balloons , but some people just let them go with no idea where they will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1 ) “ People need to be more conscious of what they ’ re doing .
If they land in a field like this one has then a cow or a deer or some other animal will eat it and will die.
” ( 1 )

Balloons always seem so cheerful. Their bright colors and interesting shapes have long been a decorative touch for parties and a fun thing for young kids to clutch in their tiny fists. However, balloons are proving to be a dangerous source of pollution that can put wildlife at risk. A family in Beckingham, England found this out the hard way. (1)
Deadly Birthday Balloon
Sharon Lay and her fiancé Adrian experienced a devastating loss at the hands of a discarded birthday balloon. The couple’s six-month-old calf became fatally ill after unwittingly eating the object. (1)
The calf, Lisa, experienced a week of severe suffering and died despite her fight to survive. “She wouldn’t give up, she was fighting it,” says Sharon. “It’s horrible. If she had got an infection or became ill, you would understand. But this is so needless.” (1)
Adoptive Mom Tried To Help
The calf’s condition caused distress for the family and Lisa’s mother. The calf was purchased to offer comfort to a cow who had recently lost her own calf. “Her mum lost her calf giving birth six months ago, so we had decided to get Lisa for her,” says Sharon. Sharon’s family brought the sick calf back to her adoptive mother so they could be together in the field. (1)
“After she had died, we found she was wet – her mum had been licking her trying to wake her up,” says Sharon. “She wouldn’t leave her side. When we were taking Lisa away her mum was running around the tractor trying to get it to stop.” (1)
Calf Ate Balloon
The couple was alerted to Lisa’s condition by a member of the public. “A passerby rang the landlord saying they had seen a cow staggering in the field,” says Sharon. (1)
The vet was called and discovered the blockage in the calf’s bowels. “The vet said she had eaten something, and it was lodged in her bowel. There was nothing we could do; cows have several stomachs and it had gone too far.” (1)
Happy 70th Balloon
“We found half the balloon and our hearts sank,” says Sharon. “It said ‘Happy 70th birthday’ on it, but now Lisa won’t even make it to seven months.” The couple and their 13-year-old foster daughter tried to nurse the calf back to health without luck. (1)
“We were using a bucket and cup to give her water as she couldn’t keep her head up. We went up every day with our foster daughter,” says Sharon. “Her mum and the other cows would lick us – that’s how they show their appreciation we were trying to help. We were rolling her, trying to get her up but she couldn’t.” (1)
Following the agonizing week watching the poor calf die, Sharon is asking people to be cautious with their rubbish. “I know that some people accidentally let go of balloons, but some people just let them go with no idea where they will land,” she says. (1)
“People need to be more conscious of what they’re doing. If they land in a field like this one has then a cow or a deer or some other animal will eat it and will die.” (1)