The Power of Positivity

In this age of conflict, controversy, and chaos, it can be difficult to keep an optimistic outlook. Many people go about their daily lives in an unpleasant mood, holding other people or consequences outside of their control responsible, and thinking that there is nothing they can do to change their situation. Every individual has the power to make a difference in his or her own life and the lives of those around them through positive thoughts, words, and actions. Conscious changes in attitude can help someone take control of a negative experience and at least change the affect that it has on the individual, if not alter the situation itself for the better. As Lauryn Hill suggests in Everything is Everything, “Develop a negative into a positive picture” (Lyrics).

It may seem obvious, but there are numerous benefits to a positive outlook. According to Henrik Edberg of The Positivity Blog, being more positive can help improve relationships, boost charisma, increase productivity, and generally create a better world around oneself. Delightful first impressions set the foundation for how people are perceived throughout relationships, and a positive outlook helps people to focus on the good in others as well. Typically, optimistic people are more openly received and liked by others, as they are more pleasant to be around and make others feel good about themselves, which in turn makes the individual feel good and increases self-confidence (in turn increasing apparent attractiveness). When negative thoughts are not acting as speed bumps, everyday activities are more enjoyable, causing productivity to flow naturally. As the Law of Attraction states, whatever a person thinks about will be attracted into that person’s life; A positive person attracts other positive people as well as positive opportunities (Edberg).

Scientific and psychological research has proven that positive (as well as negative) thinking can have a physical effect on the human body. On the Affirmative Thinking website, Komarraju Venkata Vinay quotes several physicians, scientists, and specialists proving that thoughts cause chemical changes to the body’s nervous system, immune system, and brain chemistry. For example, Dr Joe Dispenza says “nerve cells that fire together wire together.” Emotions expressed on a daily basis, such as anger, frustration, or sorrow, over time create a relationship between the related nerve cells, called an identity, that become accustom to automatically responding to stimuli in a negative manner. These relationships, however, can be interrupted by purposefully observing and changing this thought process, in turn breaking their bond (Venkata Vinay). Dr. Caroline Leaf states that 87% to 95% of illnesses are a direct result of thought life. “It’s an epidemic of toxic emotions” (Venkata Vinay).

In an altogether different type of study, Dr. Masaru Emoto, actually substantiates the effect of positive thinking through the creation of water crystals under different circumstances, such as being exposed to positive or negative music, photos, or words. Incredibly, Emoto freezes water labeled with positive or negative words and the resulting crystals display a distinct difference, reflecting the nature of the words. Water that was exposed to positive messages form ornate, pristine crystals, while water with negative words create distorted, flawed formations. “The fact that the human body is up to 60% water compounds the importance of Dr. Masaru Emoto's findings about the power of negative thinking and the energy of thoughts” (Power of Thoughts). While it may not be possible to test these results on water in the human body (of course water can’t quite be frozen in a living person), it does however demonstrate the power of positive words. In his book The Hidden Messages in Water, Emoto discusses negating negative emotions by emitting an opposite emotion. “By combining two opposite waves, the negative emotion disappears” (Emoto 73). Some of these opposing emotions are gratitude for hate, kindness for anger, courage for fear, peace of mind for anxiety, and presence of mind for pressure. Emoto also proposes that many health problems are a result of negative emotions. Ridding underlying negativity can help with recovering from illness. “The importance of being positive cannot be underestimated” (Emoto 77).

Along with restoring health, studies show that optimism may also decreases stress, lower rates of depression, lengthen life span, boost resistance to sickness, and increase overall mental and physical well-being. Some reasons that people with a positive outlook tend to live healthier lifestyles are that they are able to better cope with stressful situations, are more involved with physical activity, have healthier eating habits, and don’t excessively smoke or drink alcohol as much as those with a negative outlook. One way to enhance positive thinking skills is to understand self-talk. The article Stress Management defines self-talk as the “endless stream of unspoken thoughts that run through [a person’s] head every day.” The positive or negative nature of these thoughts establishes the person’s general outlook. Some examples of negative self-talk are: focusing on imperfections (“I can’t believe I forgot that one detail today.”), self-blame (“My friends cancelled plans because they don’t want to be around me.”), anticipating the worst (“This trip is going to be such a pain.”), and polarizing (“If I’m not perfect, I’m a failure.”). Examples of positive self-talk are: identifying opportunities (“How could I improve the way I do this?”), self-encouragement (“If I believe in myself, others will believe in me as well.”), plan for the best (“This road trip is going to be a terrific journey.”), and being open to humor (“One day, I’ll look back and laugh at this.”) Other tips for implementing a positive attitude are reflecting on thoughts throughout the day, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, spending time with positive people, and being gentle in evaluating oneself. Making an outlook transformation from negative to positive is not an easy change, but with practice, one’s self-talk will “contain less self-criticism and more self-acceptance,” causing one to be “able to handle everyday stress in a more constructive way. That ability may contribute to the widely observed health benefits of positive thinking” (Stress Management).

As important as it is to have an optimistic outlook, it takes actual action to really make a difference, especially when it comes to improving living or occupational circumstances. In the words of David Mack, “Positive thinking is great. It's a nice first step. But if you don't do the ‘Positive Doing’, it only takes you so far” (Mack 18). The ideas behind positive thinking should be put into action while fresh on the mind and most powerful. If a person is getting ready to go on a long road trip, thinking about the trip going well is not going to make it happen; Action must be taken to pack, start the car, and make the journey, while hopefully maintaining that preliminary positive attitude. Several factors can help an individual put ideas into action: do not wait for perfect conditions (chances are that there will always be something out of place), practice being a doer (take action on new ideas instead of allowing them to simmer), overcome fear with action (typically the hardest part is getting started), manually start the creative engine (stimulate the flow of ideas instead of waiting for inspiration to strike), and focus on the present (do not let ideas of the past or future overcome attention to the current moment). Instead of waiting for the best time or some other outside indication to take action, “seize the initiative” (Falconer).

Although the world is not always a beautiful place, and there is sickness and sorrow in abundance, it is still possible to overcome negativity in one’s life and surroundings. This does not mean living in denial and ignoring unpleasant situations. Positive living empowers people to take control and deal with difficult situations in a constructive manner. Even slipping out of the positive attitude can be a learning experience in how to better handle similar circumstances in the future. Understanding the power that one has over his or her own happiness and health through positive thought and action can not only improve the quality of life for that individual, but also raises the spirits of others. Positivity attracts positivity. People who consciously make an effort to be positive naturally gravitate towards others who help enforce this idea.  Projected optimism, even in the form of a gentle smile, is like a yawn, it can be contagious.

Resources:

“Lauryn Hill Lyrics.” MTV. nd. Web. 10 April 2012 http://www.mtv.com/music/artist/hill_lauryn/lyrics.jhtml

Edberg, Henrik.  “Take the Positivity Challenge.” The Positivity Blog. nd. Web. 08 April 2012.

http://www.positivityblog.com/index.php/2007/02/09/take-the-positivity-challenge

Venkata Vinay, Komarraju. “Proof.” Affirmative Thinking. nd. Web. 08 April 2012.

http://affirmativethinking.wordpress.com/science-of-affirmations-proof/

“Dr. Masaru Emoto: The Power Of Thoughts.” Positive Thinking Principles. nd. Web. 08 April 2012. http://www.positive-thinking-principles.com/dr-masaru-emoto.html

Emoto, Masaru. The Hidden Messages in Water. Atria Books, New York. 2001. Print

Mayo Clinic Staff. “Stress Management.” Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. nd. Web. 08 April 2012.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/positive-thinking/SR00009

Mack, David. Kabuki: The Alchemy, Part Seven. Marvel Publishing, New York. July 2006. Print.

Falconer, Erin. “7 Ways to Grow the Action Habit.” PickTheBrain. nd. Web. 13 April 2012.

http://www.pickthebrain.com/blog/grow-the-action-habit

Milton Glaser: Graphic Design Legend

Every profession needs strong role models for students and amateurs to look up to. Regarding graphic design and illustration, Milton Glaser is one of the most celebrated artists of modern times. Most known for creating the well-known “I Love New York” logo, he also founded Pushpin Studios, New York Magazine, and Milton Glaser, Inc. Over the years, he has published many influential logos and illustrations, earning him prestigious awards in his field.

Born in 1929, Milton Glaser studied at the New York High School of Music and Art, the Cooper Union art school, also in New York, and the Academy of Fine Arts in Bologna, Italy. Glaser co-founded Pushpin Studios in 1954, along with Reyonld Ruffins, Seymour Chwast, and Edward Sorel; He and Chwast directed this organization, which “exerted a powerful influence on the direction of world graphic design” (Biography). Pushpin Studios introduced an innovative and clever style of typography and design to the illustration industry.

 In 1966, Glaser designed the poster “Bob Dylan with the Kaleidoscope Hair” for CBS records, which was later included in Bob Dylan’s “Greatest Hits” album in 1967. Although this poster is said to have “captured the psychedelic dazzle of the flower-power era” (Edwards) in the use of contrasting dark and bright colors, Glaser states that he actually took inspiration from an earlier art movement. “I was interested in Art Nouveau at the time,” he recalls. “That was an influence for the colors and shapes in the picture” (Edwards). He also created a unique font specifically for this illustration.

As well as being an individual archetype designer and illustrator, New York Magazine, which he founded in 1968 with Clay Felker, has been known as a model for city magazines across the world and inspired various imitations in style. Glaser acted as president and design director until 1977, initiating and encouraging a revolutionary look that set the pace for many future illustrations.

Glaser created the "I love New York" logo design for the New York State Department of Commerce in 1973 to help promote tourism. Surprisingly, he was never given trademark rights to the image, to which fact he holds no hard feelings, but he is baffled by the popularity of the logo, even after several decades. In a 2009 interview, he stated, “I did the bloody thing in 1975 and I thought it would last a couple of months as a promotion; why it has persisted in people's consciousness for such a long time is totally miraculous” (BigThink). After the events of September 11, 2001, Glaser updated the design by adding a smudge to the heart and the words “More Than Ever”. Glaser explained this variation in an interview with Designboom in 2004, “The shaded portion represented the very area in lower Manhattan where the once proud world trade center twin towers stood until a pair of hijacked passenger jets slammed into them. Showing a wounded heart is important. To attain healing, the first thing one must do is to acknowledge that there’s pain” (Interview).

Established Milton Glaser, Inc., established in 1974, continues to develop designs for corporate and institutional marketing solutions. Designers at this Manhattan studio produce graphics for a wide variety of purposes, such as logos, brochures, restaurants, malls, hotels, and other and commercial environments. Glaser was selected for the lifetime Achievement Award from Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum in 1974 as well.

Milton Glaser’s work has been displayed at worldwide exhibits in Paris Centre Georges Pompidou, New York Museum of Modern Art, New York Lincoln Center Gallery, Houghton Gallery at The Cooper Union, AIGA Gallery in New York and Philadelphia Museum of Art. When asked about his personal style, Glaser replied, “I have the idea that there isn't any truth in style. It's very temporal, bound to the moment that we live in and the way we see things. If it's useful to you, fine, if not you move on to something else.” When asked if he had advice for young designers, Glaser stated, “It’s a tough business, you have to be amazingly consistent and persistent. You have to work like hell. You cannot become an excellent practitioner without constantly working hard all your life” (Interview).

References:

“Biography.” Milton Glaser. N.d. Web. 01 April 2012. http://www.miltonglaser.com/milton

Edwards, Owen. “Sign of the Times: Bob Dylan.” Smithsonian Media. June 2010. Web. 01 April 2012. http://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/Sign-of-the-Times-Bob-Dylan.html

“Interview: Milton Glaser.” Designboom. 18 May 2004. Web. 01 April 2012.

http://www.designboom.com/eng/interview/glaser.html

“BigThink Interview with Milton Glaser.” 27 August 2009. Web. 01 April 2012.

http://bigthink.com/ideas/16191

Cell Phone Cameras Versus Traditional Cameras

As technology advances, camera phones are becoming more useful and convenient, nearly taking the place of traditional cameras in some aspects. Many phones are now able to take photos comparable to point-and-shoot cameras and are more readily available with a variety of additional features that aren’t available on traditional cameras. Depending on the quality of photos, ease of use, and occasion, a cell phone camera could actually be a more practical choice for taking photos in many situations.

Several years ago, taking a picture with your cell phone was more for personal amusement than anything, as the photo quality was so low that the resulting image was often only recognizable or significant to the one taking the picture. The cameras equipped on today’s more popular smartphones are close or at par with those of middle-line point-and-shoot cameras. “The original iPhone debuted in 2007 with just a 2-megapixel camera. Flash forward to today, and the iPhone 4S camera boasts 8 megapixels. The Android-based Galaxy S II also features an 8-megapixel camera.” (Ogg) Many camera phones include a flash and zoom options, similar to traditional cameras. The quality of these components varies depending on the device and different cameras have different advantages. Dedicated cameras have easier access to settings such as zoom, flash, and shooting modes. Of course, SLR cameras defeat all others in quality, zoom, and flash, but are also very expensive, bulky, and difficult to master. All three types of cameras are capable of capturing images that can be printed in various sizes, although the quality of images and prints depends directly on the quality and capability of the camera taking the photograph.

While many aspects of camera phones may not be on par with with traditional cameras, their convenience and features make them a hearty opponent. The most obvious perk to a mobile phone camera is that it’s close on hand – usually literally in your hand or pocket. This alone contributes to the reason that a majority of photos these days are taken with cell phones. User-friendly options add to the popularity of cell phone cameras, as well as the availability of applications that add to the experience. Another major advantage of mobile cameras is the ease of photo sharing. Any camera phone, digital point-and-shoot, or DSLR camera stores images on digital media that can be loaded to a computer and stored or shared online. Wireless access and high speed mobile networks on smartphones give you the ability to instantly post photos from practically anywhere. In the same aspect, the difficulty in using higher end SLR cameras can be beneficial to a professional photographer, as it makes the average user more likely pay for high quality images and the service of someone with a superior camera who knows how to use it.

The occasion being captured makes a big difference as to what type of camera is best suited for the situation. Every day, casual photos, especially spur-of-the-moment pictures, are usually easier to take with a cell phone. This is not only because of the convenience of access, but also the casual nature is more likely to capture a candid shot. You would probably prefer to use a point-and-shoot or SLR camera for more important or rare events, such as weddings, birthdays, or vacations. It’s also a good idea to take into consideration the possibility of an accident causing the loss of not only your camera but your phone as well, “you probably don't want to risk damaging the center of your mobile-computing universe by using it to take underwater or skydiving shots” (Moynihan).

In summary, cell phone, point-and-shoot, and SLR cameras are all useful in different ways, but smartphones are definitely increasing in popularity. Because of similar image quality, user-friendliness, and casual use, cell phone cameras are used more than point-and-shoot cameras these days. Pocket size cameras still come in handy for certain situations, however, such as times when you might put your phone in jeopardy. SLR cameras produce the highest quality images and offer the most detailed setting adjustments, but also have the highest learning curve, as they are the most difficult to use efficiently.

References:

Ogg, Erica. “Smartphones Killing Point-and-Shoots.” GigaOM. 22 Dec 2011. Web. 25 Mar 2012. http://gigaom.com/2011/12/22/smartphones-killing-point-and-shoots-now-take-almost-13-of-photos/

Moynihan, Tim. “Camera and Camera-Phone Trends to Expect in 2012.” PCWorld Communications, Inc. 29 Dec 2011. Web. 25 Mar 2012. http://www.pcworld.com/article/246887/camera_and_cameraphone_trends_to_expect_in_2012.html

Knowing Newborns

Babies of all ages have a variety of personalities and distinctive behaviors, but newborns are generally simpler and easier to comprehend. Newborns are humans in our purest form. They have yet to develop complex emotional or psychological needs, so they act mainly on physical needs. Usually, if a newborn is upset, there is a bodily cause that can be alleviated if you can decipher the meaning behind the cries. For this reason, it is beneficial to be able to recognize common newborn moods, such as uncomfortable, distressed, sleepy, and everyone’s favorite, content.

From the moment they are born, newborns naturally communicate discomfort by use of facial expressions and vocal chords. Babies in general are known for crying when they need something, but you can also watch for other signals to be able to comfort the baby before the crying starts. Hungry babies will root at – or try to latch their mouths onto – anything nearby, such as their own hands, blankets, clothes, or the arms of the person holding them. Newborns also use their hands to comfort themselves if something is bothering them, such as a dirty diaper or upset stomach. You may notice a baby’s arms flailing uncontrollably, even when he isn’t upset; Newborns have very limited motor control, so they actually enjoy being swaddled to control their hands as well as keep warm. You can mimic this effect by gently holding the baby’s arms close to his body. Remember, the baby was in a warm, tight, dark bundle for nine months, so this will be the most comfortable position for him for at least the first few months of his life.

Distressed newborns display signals similar to an uncomfortable baby, but are more urgent, such as more extreme expressions and louder cries. This is because of a situation that needs to be remedied quickly, or an issue that may require more attention than usual. Painful cries can be equally painful to the ears, and for good reason. If someone is holding or moving a baby in a way that could harm her, she is quick to let out a cry to let you know. Sometimes the signals are silent but just as severe, such as if a baby is choking, she will open her mouth wide and sometimes stretch and twist in an instinctive attempt to roll over; this calls for a quick and careful response, turning the baby on her side and using suction to clear her throat if needed (in this situation, it’s good to hear the baby cry because it lets you know that she is breathing).

As much as a parent loves to see a newborn’s eyes, that newborn loves to sleep even more. According to Mayo Clinic, “Newborns often sleep up to 16 hours a day” (“Crying baby”). A sleeping baby is truly a happy baby, so it is important to allow that sleep to be uninterrupted as much as possible. There are several stages that a newborn goes through between being sleepy and sound asleep, but a sleepy baby should be handled just as carefully and quietly as one who is sound asleep, to keep from causing stress and interrupting the natural sleep cycle. Sleeping babies are of course much easier to deal with than alert babies, particularly in situations when you want to position the baby into various poses, such as for photographs. You can also take extra measures to keep the baby comfortable and asleep, such as increasing the room temperature and playing soothing sounds like white noise or natural sound recordings.

There’s nothing quite like gazing into the eyes of a newborn. Parents love to see their newborn awake and looking around, and it is the best time to connect, bond, and interact with the baby. The eHow article Common Behavioral States of Newborns describes two distinct stages of a wakeful newborn: quite alert and active alert. Quite alert is the most attentive newborn mood, easily recognizable as bright eyed and content; this stage is when the baby is “most responsive to feeding or one-on-one time with a parent or caregiver” (Zogheib). Active alert is a stage between content and uncomfortable, such as when the baby is starting to get hungry or slightly bothered by outside stimuli; responding to small clues or making minor adjustments can usually calm a baby in this state. Often, a simple shift in position or gentle touch can ease an agitated newborn.

While newborns have many similarities, each baby is unique as well. Some babies display discomfort, distress, sleepiness, and contentment differently than others. Being able to identify common signs of a newborn’s disposition helps you to communicate with the baby, especially in careers that work with multiple babies on a daily basis. For parents, establishing communication with a child early is an important step in developing a lifelong connection and understanding relationship.

References:

Mayo Clinic staff, “Crying baby: What to do when your newborn cries.” Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. 16 April 2011. Web. 18 March 2012.

http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/healthy-baby/PR00037

Zogheib, Stacy. “Common Behavioral States of Newborns.” Demand Media, Inc. 24 April 2011. Web. 18 March 2012.

http://www.ehow.com/info_8286763_common-behavioral-states-newborns.html

Hoop Like You Know How

Anyone can pick up a hula hoop and spin it around, but a few techniques and tips can make you look and feel like you know what you’re doing, even if you don’t! Hooping is not only fun, but also a great workout, and easy to grasp in a few simple steps. The key elements are hoop size, posture, position, push, and staying positive!

Before you begin, take note that the size and make of your hoop is going to make a big difference to how easy or difficult it is to use. Adult size hoops are usually larger, heavier, and easier to keep spinning. The larger the hoop, the longer it will take for it to rotate around your body, allowing you to move slower, with more determined movements. Most adult hoops range between belly-button and chest height, measuring up from the floor. The weight of the hoop actually works with gravity to keep it spinning longer and works your midsection a little harder to keep it going, which is great if you’re hooping for fitness.

The first thing to think about is your posture. You will be focusing on your hip area to begin with, so you want to have your weight balanced between both feet while keeping your back straight but flexible. It’s usually easier to begin with your feet slightly apart and your right foot further forward than the other. Try this posture without the hoop and rock your weight forward and back with the motion originating in your hips. You may look like you’re doing a cheesy pelvis pump dance, but this helps deprogram your body from wanting to twist and turn as soon as you spin the hoop. Rotating your hips with the hoop actually makes hooping much more difficult and expends more energy than necessary to keep the hoop going. A linear motion pushing against the rotation of the hoop is much more effective. Some find it easier to move side to side instead of front to back, in which case you would simply place your feet side by side and push right to left with your hips.

The second important factor is the starting position of the hoop against your body and in relation to the floor. Although you will be pushing with your hips to keep the hoop spinning, it will actually be moving around your waist, just above your hips, so you want to start with the hoop pressed against your lower back. Hold the hoop with a light grip and make sure that it is parallel to the floor, as evenly as possible. You may be able to check your reflection or shadow to check the alignment. Your arms should be slightly bent so that your hands aren’t too close or too far from your body.

Now for the actual hooping! For simplicity, these steps are written with instructions for hooping to the left (pushing off with your right hand), which is usually most comfortable for right-handed individuals. If you are left-handed or find that hooping to your right works better for you, just reverse the noted directions. Twist the hoop to the right, keeping it against your lower back and level with the floor. With an initial rock forward, push the hoop with your right hand and immediately begin rocking back and forth with the hoop. When the hoop rolls across your back, push back; When the hoop rolls across your belly, push forward. It’s that simple! There’s a good chance that the hoop will drop a few times, but just pick it up and go again. If you have trouble getting into the rhythm of the hoop, try spinning the hoop around your body without moving to keep it going; this will give you the chance to really feel where the hoop is landing and when you should be pushing forward and back.

Even if it takes you a while to get the hang of hooping, your general expression and attitude makes a huge difference in how well you appear to be hooping. If you keep a smile on your face and look like you’re enjoying yourself, others will naturally assume that you know what you’re doing. One aspect of this is paying attention to what your hands are doing while you hoop. Many people want to immediately start doing fun things with their hands, which is fine if you are a natural at spinning the hoop. Most often, it’s easier to keep your hands level with your forearms, slightly outstretched to each side, out of the rotation of the hoop. You can also use your hands to help keep your hips in motion by pumping your hands in and out in opposite motion from your pelvis. Again, it may appear a little cheesy, but you’ll look more like you’re showing the hoop who’s boss rather than the other way around!

 Once you’ve mastered these fundamentals, you can proudly call yourself a hooper! In no time, people will be asking you how to teach them how to hoop. All you have to remember is size, posture, position, push, and stay positive. Most importantly, make sure you’re having fun!

Images via the HoopSmiles video “How to Hula Hoop Rap Song,”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DR0hc7lT0hE