Monthly Archives: July 2023

Empowering Women’s Sexual Health: Unleashing the Potential of Female Condoms

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On World Population Day, we celebrate the importance of sexual and reproductive health and rights. Among the various contraceptive options available, female condoms are a powerful tool for women to take control of their sexual health. Offering dual protection and empowering women to prioritize their well-being, female condoms have emerged as a game-changer in contraception. In this article, we delve into the remarkable features and benefits of female condoms while optimizing them with top-ranking SEO keywords to ensure their reach to a wider audience.

  1. Enhanced Protection: Female condoms provide an additional layer of protection during sexual intercourse, guarding against both unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Their unique design enables them to cover the vaginal canal, creating a barrier that helps prevent the transmission of STIs, including HIV. By offering this double protection, female condoms empower women to participate in the decision-making process concerning their sexual health actively.
  2. Pleasurable Experience: Unlike traditional male condoms, female condoms are not solely dependent on the male partner’s cooperation for usage. Women can proactively take charge of their sexual health by inserting a female condom before intercourse. The inner ring of the condom aids in insertion and keeps it securely in place during intercourse. This self-initiated approach allows women to experience increased sexual empowerment and satisfaction.
  3. Versatility and Accessibility: One of the significant advantages of female condoms is their versatility. They can be used with any type of lubricant, unlike male condoms incompatible with oil-based lubricants. Furthermore, female condoms can be inserted up to eight hours before sexual activity, which offers flexibility and eliminates the need for an interruption during the heat of the moment. These features make female condoms an accessible choice for women across diverse circumstances.

Non-Hormonal Option: Female condoms provide a non-hormonal contraceptive option, particularly beneficial for women with health concerns or sensitivities to hormonal methods. By relying on physical barrier protection, female condoms eliminate the potential side effects of hormonal contraception, providing a safe and reliable choice for women worldwide.

Female condoms are vital in empowering women to take charge of their sexual health. By providing dual protection against unwanted pregnancies and STIs, offering a pleasurable experience, and ensuring accessibility and versatility, female condoms stand out as an excellent contraceptive option. As we commemorate World Population Day, let us celebrate the positive impact of female condoms in promoting sexual and reproductive health and advocate for their widespread availability and usage worldwide.

My Hope For You!

JustLikeThat

In the depths of love’s vast sea,
I wish for you, my dear, to see,
A smile that greets you at the door,
A love that leaves you wanting more.

May you find someone who embraces,
The beauty within your soul’s spaces,
Who sees the scars that tell your story,
And finds them adorned with grace and glory.

I hope for you a love that’s clear,
No doubts or questions, just sincere,
A love that boldly lets you know,
How deeply their feelings for you grow.

May you discover a love so true,
That never hesitates, always pursues,
A love that gives its entirety,
No fragments, just pure sincerity.

I hope for you a love that understands,
Your worth, the treasures in your hands,
A love that cherishes your soul,
And nurtures it, making it whole.

May you find a partner, strong and true,
Your biggest supporter in all you pursue,
Not seeking attention, but giving it back,
A love that’s balanced, never off track.

But above all, my hope, my dear,
Is that you find this love, crystal clear,
Within yourself, before it’s found,
So you’re ready when love comes around.

Discover the depths of your own heart,
Unveil the love, ready to impart,
For in loving yourself, you’ll truly see,
The love you deserve, so wild and free.

So my hope for you, my precious friend,
Is to embrace self-love, let it ascend,
For when you’re ready, love will come,
A love that’s beautiful, pure, and strong.

(by Shillpi A Singh)

Moonlighting in a relationship? But Why?

The Free Press Journal, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The article was published in The Free Press Journal on July 9, 2023. https://www.freepressjournal.in/weekend/heard-about-moonlighting-in-relationship-heres-what-it-entails

One day before I go…

JustLikeThat

One day before I go,
I want you to know,
That your presence in my life,
Fills me with joy and delight.

Your wisdom streaks so profound,
In your soft brown eyes, wisdom is found.
Your dimpled cheeks, so sweet,
They bring a smile whenever we meet.

And that infectious smile you wear,
Brings light to all who are near.
Your towering height, a gentle might,
Yet you always make me feel just right.

Your warm hugs, they hold me tight,
In your embrace, everything feels right.
Your effervescent presence, a shining light,
Guiding me through the darkest night.

Your sense of humour, a constant delight,
With your sharp wit, you set things right.
Your cleft chin, a mark so fine,
A reminder of a love that’s mine.

Even your anxiety-bitten nails,
Can’t hide the kindness that prevails.
Your heart is so kind and pure,
With genuine concern, that’s sure.

For anger, you have no room,
Your support never ceases to bloom.
Your affection, pure and true,
Unwavering in all that you do.

You tower above, head and heart,
And in your cuddle, I find my start.
That amusing grunt you make,
Leaves me laughing, wide awake.

Your polite refusal, a mark of grace,
In your passionate kiss, I find solace.
Your loving caress, a tender touch,
Brings comfort that means so much.

And oh, your delicious food,
Filling my soul, my gratitude renewed.
Engrossing conversations we share,
Leaving me laughing without a care.

Your swift hand movements, so precise,
Accompany tender talks that entice.
Your magnetic vibes, I’m drawn to you,
With every word, my love for you grew.

Driving with running commentary,
Holding my hand, a beautiful story.
Your engaging tales, they make me smile,
Leaving me laughing for a while.

You’ve been my protector, my rock,
Through thick and thin, around the clock.
Your blue sheet conversations so deep,
Leaving me yearning, longing to keep.

I look up to you, figuratively and literally,
As your chin rest, my heart fills merrily.
In my darkest moments, you’ve rescued me,
Guiding me with love, setting me free.

You’ve shown me how to love unconditionally,
Providing a sense of security.
My knight in shining armour, strong and true,
You make me feel cherished, driving my blues.

For keeping me afloat, my buoy,
I send wishes for your days with joy.
In awe, admiration, and adulation,
I remain your pocket-sized Dynamo.

Thank you for being my full-course meal,
While I am your sweet dessert, so surreal.
With love, always and forevermore,
Your pocket-sized Dynamo, forever yours.

(by Shillpi A Singh)

Beware of breadcrumbers! A toxic lot, they can leave a relationship starving.

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In the realm of modern dating and relationships, breadcrumbing has emerged as a common and frustrating practice. Breadcrumbing refers to the practice of intermittently giving attention, communication, or affection to someone while lacking genuine intentions for a committed relationship. Discover how breadcrumbing keeps individuals on the periphery, with sporadic messages, occasional dates, and displays of affection that lead nowhere. Whether experienced in online or offline relationships, breadcrumbing can leave you feeling confused and emotionally drained.

Signs and Symptoms of Breadcrumbing: Recognizing the signs of breadcrumbing is crucial to protect yourself from potential heartbreak. Understand the common indicators of this practice:

  1. Inconsistent communication: Breadcrumbers engage in sporadic texting or messaging, making you wait for their responses or providing vague replies.
  2. Mixed signals: They send flirtatious or affectionate messages, but their actions contradict their words. Their interest and commitment may fluctuate.
  3. Lack of initiation: Breadcrumbers rarely take the lead in progressing the relationship or initiating plans, relying on you to maintain the connection.
  4. Minimal effort: They invest minimal effort into the relationship, such as occasional compliments, infrequent dates, or superficial conversations.
  5. Excuses and postponements: Breadcrumbers frequently cancel plans or make excuses to avoid committing to future arrangements, leaving you feeling frustrated and uncertain.

Safeguarding Against Breadcrumbing: Protecting yourself from breadcrumbing requires awareness and proactive steps. Implement the following strategies:

  1. Recognize the signs: Educate yourself about the signs of breadcrumbing to identify if you are experiencing it. Awareness is key to protecting yourself.
  2. Trust your intuition: Listen to your instincts. If something feels inconsistent or off, address your concerns with the other person and trust your inner voice.
  3. Communicate your expectations: Be clear about your desires and intentions. Openly communicate your needs and boundaries to filter out potential breadcrumbers.
  4. Set boundaries: Establish and assertively communicate your boundaries. Breadcrumbers thrive on relationship ambiguity, so defining your limits can deter such behaviour.
  5. Focus on reciprocity: Assess if the other person reciprocates your efforts and interest. A healthy relationship requires equal investment from both parties.
  6. Prioritize self-care: Invest time and energy in activities that bring you joy and fulfilment. Engage in hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and prioritize personal growth to build resilience and self-worth.
  7. Don’t settle for breadcrumbs: Recognize your value and worth. Refuse to accept half-hearted attention or inconsistent behaviour. Be willing to walk away from relationships that do not meet your needs.
  8. Take time for reflection: Step back and reflect on the relationship if you suspect breadcrumbing. Assess if it aligns with your long-term goals and values.
  9. Seek support: Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist to share your experiences and gain perspective. Having a support system provides guidance and emotional support during challenging times.

Understanding breadcrumbing and implementing strategies to safeguard yourself can protect your emotional well-being and cultivate healthier and more fulfilling relationships. Remember, you deserve genuine love and commitment, not mere breadcrumbs. Safeguard your heart and navigate breadcrumbing with confidence.

Love Bombing: The Destructive Charm That Leaves Hearts Shattered

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“The biggest coward of a man is to awaken the love of a woman without the intention of loving her.”

Bob Marley

Love bombing, a manipulative tactic used in relationships, can leave individuals emotionally shattered. This deceptive practice involves an intense showering of affection, attention, appreciation, and grand gestures that quickly captivate the victim. However, beneath the surface, love bombing conceals a darker intention—to gain control and power over the unsuspecting target. In this feature, we explore the phenomenon of love bombing and its devastating effects and provide insights into healing from its aftermath.

Love Bombing is a Psychological Deception: Love bombing is a term coined to describe a manipulative tactic employed by individuals with narcissistic or abusive tendencies. Research suggests that love bombers strategically employ excessive displays of affection, constant communication, lavish gifts, and flattery to overwhelm and captivate their targets. This overwhelming flood of positive attention and validation creates a false sense of security, deep emotional connection, and dependency within the victim.

The Devastating Effects of Love Bombing: While love bombing may initially feel like a whirlwind romance, the aftermath can be catastrophic. Victims of love bombing often find themselves emotionally shattered when the charade unravels. Research indicates that the abrupt withdrawal of affection and the unveiling of the abuser’s true intentions can lead to severe emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and a distorted perception of love and relationships. The deceptive nature of love bombing makes it particularly damaging as victims struggle to reconcile the intense love they experienced with the painful reality they face.

Recognizing the Signs of Love Bombing: Awareness is crucial in identifying and escaping the clutches of love bombing. Some common signs of love bombing include:

  1. Excessive flattery and constant praise.
  2. Overwhelming attention and rapid progression in the relationship.
  3. Isolation from friends and family creating dependency on the love bomber.
  4. Frequent grand gestures and gifts to win affection and control.
  5. Emotional manipulation and control tactics.

Healing and Recovery: Recovering from the aftermath of the love bombing requires time, self-reflection, and support. Here are some strategies to aid in healing:

  1. Self-Care and Self-Compassion: Prioritize self-care activities that nurture your emotional well-being. Practice self-compassion by reminding yourself that you deserve love and respect.
  2. Seek Support: Reach out to trusted friends, family members, or support groups who can provide understanding and guidance throughout the healing process. Sharing your experiences with others can help validate your emotions and regain a sense of empowerment.
  3. Set Boundaries: Establish and enforce healthy boundaries to protect yourself from further manipulation. Learn to recognize and prioritize your needs and emotions.
  4. Professional Help: Consider seeking therapy or counselling to process the trauma and regain emotional stability. A mental health professional can provide guidance and support tailored to your needs.

Moving Forward with Empowered Love 

Recovering from love bombing involves rediscovering your self-worth and rebuilding trust in yourself and others. Remembering that healthy relationships are built on mutual respect, trust, and genuine care is essential. Be patient with yourself as you navigate the healing journey and focus on personal growth.

Love bombing may leave individuals shattered, but with awareness, support, and self-care, it is possible to reclaim personal power and rebuild a healthier future. Recognising the signs of love bombing and taking proactive steps towards healing, survivors can learn to differentiate between genuine love and manipulative tactics. Remember, you deserve love and respect that is authentic, nurturing, and built on trust. Embrace the healing journey, and let it catalyse growth, resilience, and empowered love.

References:

  1. Stines, S. (2016). Love Bombing: An Early Warning Sign That You’re Dating a Narcissist. Psych Central. Retrieved from https://psychcentral.com/lib/love-bombing-an-early-warning-sign-that-youre-dating-a-narcissist#1
  2. Dixon, L. J., Hamilton-Giachritsis, C., Browne, K. D., & Ostapuik, E. (2005). The co-occurrence of child and intimate partner maltreatment in the family: Characteristics of the violent perpetrators. Journal of Family Violence, 20(6), 377-387.

The unspoken, unheard and unseen pain of friendship breakup: Understanding & Coping with the Heartache

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The pain from a friendship breakup is real. It’s even worse if you don’t understand why it ended. People expect friendships to last forever. The ending is just as painful as romantic breakups. We just don’t talk about it.

Friendships are special in our lives, providing companionship, support, and shared experiences. However, when a friendship abruptly ends, the pain can be just as agonizing as a romantic breakup. Surprisingly, society often overlooks the emotional toll of friendship breakups, leaving individuals grappling with unanswered questions and a sense of loss. In this article, we delve into the unspoken heartache of friendship breakups, shedding light on their real impact and offering strategies for healing.

Understanding the Depth of Friendship Breakup Pain: Friendships are often perceived as enduring and eternal bonds, leading to high expectations of lifelong companionship. Consequently, when a friendship abruptly dissolves, the pain can be profound. Studies have shown that the emotional distress experienced after a friendship breakup is comparable to that of romantic relationships (1). However, unlike romantic breakups, the topic of friendship dissolution remains largely unspoken, further exacerbating the emotional turmoil.

The Lack of Closure: A Source of Intense Pain: One of the most challenging aspects of friendship breakups is the lack of understanding regarding why the relationship ended. Friends may not engage in open discussions or formal closure, unlike romantic partners. This lack of clarity often leaves individuals with unanswered questions, leading to self-doubt, rumination, and prolonged distress (2). The absence of closure can hinder the healing process, making it harder to move on and find resolution.

The Importance of Acknowledging and Validating Feelings: Acknowledging and validating the pain caused by a friendship breakup is essential. Recognizing that the pain is real and legitimate can help individuals navigate the healing process. Cultivating self-compassion and seeking support from trusted confidants can provide solace during this difficult time. Remember, your emotions are valid, and allowing yourself to grieve the loss is essential to healing.

Healing Strategies: Moving Forward

  1. Self-Reflection and Acceptance: Reflect on the friendship and why it may have ended. Accept that friendships, like any relationship, can change and evolve over time. Acknowledge that personal growth and shifting priorities are natural, and it doesn’t diminish the value of the friendship shared.
  2. Seek Support: Reach out to other friends or family members who can provide a listening ear and emotional support. Sharing your feelings with a trusted confidant can help alleviate the pain and provide perspective.
  3. Engage in Self-Care: Engaging in activities that bring joy and comfort can aid healing. Whether practising mindfulness, pursuing hobbies, or taking care of your physical health, prioritizing self-care can facilitate emotional recovery.
  4. Foster New Connections: While it may be challenging initially, opening yourself up to new friendships can help fill the void left by the breakup. Attend social events, join interest groups, or participate in community activities to meet new people with similar interests.

Friendship breakups are a deeply felt and often unaddressed aspect of human relationships. By acknowledging the pain caused by these separations and seeking to understand their impact, we can provide solace and support to those experiencing this silent heartache. Remember, friendship breakups are part of life’s journey, and with time, self-reflection, and nurturing new connections, the pain will gradually subside, paving the way for healing and growth.

References:

  1. Sbarra, D. A., & Allen, J. J. (2009). Heartbreak and bereavement: Cognitive consequences and implications for self-concept. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 37(2), 154-166.
  2. Felmlee, D., & Sweet, E. (2005). To sever friendships: Context and meaning in relationship dissolution. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 22(1), 3-16.

Love yourself the most!

Holy Trinity: Mind-Body-Soul, Uncategorized, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

13 ways to fall head over heels in love with yourself…

Self-love is a crucial aspect of personal well-being and happiness. It involves valuing yourself and prioritizing your needs without compromising your well-being to please others. Understanding what self-love means to you is essential for maintaining good mental health.

Embracing self-love offers numerous advantages, including increased life satisfaction and a more positive outlook on life. It allows you to develop a strong sense of self-worth and confidence in your abilities and place in the world. Furthermore, self-love plays a vital role in maintaining optimal mental health.

Achieving Total Self-Love: 13 Steps

Embrace Your Uniqueness: Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your personal journey and growth. Recognize that there is no one else like you, and direct your energy towards self-improvement and personal fulfillment.

Ignore Society’s Expectations: Avoid concerning yourself with societal opinions and expectations. It is impossible to please everyone, so prioritize your own well-being and disregard the pressure to conform.

Learn from Mistakes: Give yourself permission to make mistakes. Mistakes are valuable opportunities for growth and learning. Embrace your past experiences, understanding that they contribute to your ongoing development.

Value Yourself Beyond Appearance: Recognize that your value as a person is not solely determined by your physical appearance. Reject societal pressures and wear what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and happy.

Let Go of Toxic Relationships: Identify and distance yourself from individuals who bring toxicity into your life. It may be difficult, but removing such negative influences is liberating and necessary for your personal growth and well-being.

Confront Your Fears: Instead of avoiding or suppressing your fears, face them head-on. Analyze and understand your fears, which can help alleviate anxiety and provide clarity in your life.

Trust Your Decision-Making Abilities: Believe in yourself and your capacity to make sound decisions. Your feelings and intuition are valid, and you know yourself better than anyone else. Advocate for yourself and trust your instincts.

Seize Opportunities: Don’t wait for the perfect moment to pursue your goals and dreams. Recognize that circumstances may never be ideal, but taking action and seizing opportunities can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.

Prioritize Self-Care: Don’t feel guilty about prioritizing your own well-being. Set aside time for self-care activities that help you decompress and recharge. Whether spending time in nature or engaging in activities that bring you joy, prioritise self-care.

Embrace Your Emotions: Allow yourself to fully experience a range of emotions, both positive and negative. Embrace pain and joy, as they provide valuable insights into your own nature. Remember, your feelings do not define your identity.

Express Yourself Boldly: Practice speaking your mind and expressing your thoughts and opinions. Boldness is a skill that grows with practice. Take a seat at the table, contribute to conversations, and assert your voice confidently.

Appreciate Simple Pleasures: Make a conscious effort to notice and appreciate the beauty in small things around you. Cultivate gratitude for these simple pleasures, as it brings perspective and enhances your ability to find joy.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself in a world full of criticism. Avoid negative self-talk and celebrate your progress and growth. Regularly acknowledge and appreciate your accomplishments, not just on special occasions.

By following these 13 steps, you can embark on a journey towards total self-love, fostering a healthy and positive relationship with yourself while prioritizing your well-being and happiness.

हुस्न हम!
इश्क़ हम!
फिर तुम कौन खामखा?

शिल्पी

The Eternal Love Story

A li'l birdie says..., JustLikeThat, , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The full moon in July 2023, known as the Buck Moon, will occur on July 3. It will be visible for three days. This full moon is also a supermoon, appearing larger and more vibrant due to its proximity to Earth during perigee.

Three of Us!

Have you ever wondered about the fascinating connection between the moon and the dramatic tides that grace the shores? Join us as we dive into a captivating myth that sheds light on this celestial phenomenon.

In ancient times, the Gods reigned supreme over the sky, the earth, and the seas, each realm governed by a distinct deity. It was a harmonious era when their story unfolded. Atop the celestial sphere, the Sun God held dominion over the skies, basking in the glory of his golden chariot as he surveyed his celestial kingdom. His beloved daughter, Luna, adorned the night sky as the radiant moon, embarking on celestial sojourns in her shimmering silver chariot whenever her father retired.

One moonlit night, Luna embarked on an uncharted path, venturing closer to where the vast sky meets the boundless ocean. The mesmerizing expanse of shimmering waters enchanted her, reminiscent of her ethereal abode.

As Luna stood captivated by the scene, she sensed an intriguing presence observing her every move. A young man, bearing a golden hue akin to her father’s brilliance, sat upon a rock, casting his gaze upon her. Initially cautious of the handsome stranger, Luna contemplated leaving the scene. However, his warm smile enticed her to stay.

Curiosity piqued, Luna inquired about his identity, revealing her divine lineage as the daughter of the Sky God. The young man, Mar, proudly disclosed that he was the son of the Sea God. This encounter marked the genesis of an extraordinary friendship.

Mar regaled Luna with captivating tales of the vast ocean and its wonders, while Luna reciprocated by sharing the celestial chronicles from her realm. Night after night, they revelled in the joy of storytelling, forging a profound bond.

Soon, their affection blossomed into love, prompting Luna to confide in her cousin about her clandestine romance with Mar. Unbeknownst to her, her cousin betrayed her trust by promptly informing her uncle.

The wrath of the Sun God blazed like his scorching golden rays when he learned of Luna’s transgressions. He summoned his daughter, vehemently admonishing her for violating the sacred laws that governed their celestial existence. Luna, pleading for understanding, professed her love for Mar, who, like her, hailed from divine origins.

Despite her pleas, the Sun God remained relentless in his anger, confining Luna within the confines of a garden. Meanwhile, a messenger was dispatched to deliver the news to the Sea God, who reacted with fury upon discovering his son’s forbidden affection. Mar, too, found himself imprisoned within a secluded sea cave, bearing the weight of his father’s disapproval.

Separated and consumed by longing, Luna and Mar yearned for each other’s presence. One fateful night, driven by an unquenchable desire to reunite, Luna orchestrated her daring escape from the garden, embarking on a celestial odyssey in her silver chariot toward the vast sea. From his secluded cavern, Mar caught sight of Luna’s ethereal reflection glistening upon the ocean’s surface, intensifying his longing to be reunited with his beloved.

Although Mar’s attempts to break free from his watery prison proved futile, his ardent struggle caused the waves to surge and swell with newfound vigour. The ocean roared in restless turmoil, mirroring the depth of their love and yearning.

Heartbroken, Luna returned to the heavens at daybreak, denied even a glimpse of her beloved Mar. There, she remained in a state of melancholy and desolation. Yet, whenever thoughts of Mar consumed her, Luna would descend swiftly in her silver chariot, hoping against hope for his liberation. Alas, Mar’s confinement persisted, and with each futile attempt to break free, the sea responded with heaving tides. Thus, the magnificent ebb and flow of the tides came into existence, forever entwined with the tale of Luna and Mar.

The enchanting celestial romance of Luna and Mar and its profound impact on the rhythmic dance of the ocean’s ebb and flow… That’s an eternal love story and one for keeps.