In our fast-paced, information-overloaded world, mastering our minds has become more crucial than ever. Mind management refers to the deliberate and conscious effort to understand, control, and optimize our thought processes, emotions, and mental states. By employing effective mind management techniques, we can enhance our focus, increase productivity, reduce stress, and achieve a greater sense of well-being. In this blog, we will explore some practical and proven techniques that can help you master your mind and improve your overall mental health.

1. Practice Mindfulness:

One of the fundamental techniques for mind management is practicing mindfulness. By cultivating mindfulness, we can become more aware of our thoughts and emotions, allowing us to respond rather than react impulsively. Regular mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindful activities such as walking or eating can help train our minds to stay present and centered.

1. Develop a Growth Mindset:

Having a growth mindset is vital for mind management. Embracing a belief that our abilities can be developed through effort and learning, rather than being fixed traits, enables us to approach challenges with resilience and perseverance. By reframing failures as opportunities for growth, we can overcome self-limiting beliefs and achieve higher levels of success.

1. Prioritize Self-Care:

Taking care of our physical, emotional, and mental well-being is essential for effective mind management. Ensure you prioritize adequate sleep, maintain a balanced diet, engage in regular physical exercise, and make time for activities that bring you joy. Self-care practices like journaling, practicing gratitude, and engaging in hobbies can also help nurture a positive mindset.

1. Utilize Cognitive Restructuring:

Our thoughts greatly influence our emotions and behaviors. Cognitive restructuring involves identifying and challenging negative or distorted thoughts and replacing them with more positive and realistic ones. By questioning the validity of our negative thoughts and reframing them in a more constructive manner, we can change our emotional responses and improve our overall outlook on life.

1. Set Clear Goals and Priorities:

Having clear goals and priorities is crucial for effective mind management. By setting specific, achievable goals and breaking them down into actionable steps, we can direct our mental energy and focus on what truly matters. Regularly reviewing and adjusting our goals ensures that we stay on track and maintain a sense of purpose and motivation.

1. Manage Stress through Relaxation Techniques:

Chronic stress can take a toll on our mental well-being. Employing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, or engaging in activities like yoga or meditation can help alleviate stress and promote a state of calmness and mental clarity.

1. Seek Support and Practice Emotional Intelligence:

Building strong relationships and seeking support from others is crucial for mind management. Developing emotional intelligence enables us to understand and manage our own emotions effectively while also empathizing with others. Building a support network and practicing open communication can provide us with a sense of connection, belonging, and emotional well-being.
​
Mind Management
Conclusion:
Mastering your mind through effective mind management techniques is a continuous journey that requires commitment, practice, and self-awareness. By incorporating practices such as mindfulness, developing a growth mindset, prioritizing self-care, utilizing cognitive restructuring, setting clear goals, managing stress, and seeking support, you can enhance your mental resilience, improve your overall well-being, and lead a more fulfilling life. Remember, the power to master your mind lies within you – take the first step today.

"The Girl Is Mine"
October 18, 1982 - 1st single from Thriller
https://youtu.be/nbkwDIsDy7o
Written by Michael Jackson. Produced by Quincy Jones & Michael Jackson. Duet with Paul McCartney. Recorded April 14-16, 1982 at Westlake Studios
This was the first single released off the Thriller album. Although it was one of the weaker songs, it was released first because it was guaranteed airplay thanks to McCartney's contribution, and if they didn't release it first, radio stations would play it anyway and wear it out. Also, it was the first song completed for the album, which they were still working on. This was released a month before the album came out. The next six singles all came after the album, and were all Top 10 hits as well.
At the time, many big albums contained a song with a prominent guest vocalist to attract attention. Released ahead of the album, this song gave no indication that Thriller would become the best-selling album of all time. Listeners were not impressed by "The Girl Is Mine", and thought that Jackson's Thriller would also be a disappointment. The public felt that Jackson and the producer, Quincy Jones, had created a song for the white pop audience
​
https://preview.redd.it/mkrniywu143b1.jpg?width=900&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fa14b0069448c8dfb41551caf0e9c460324b9ede
The lyrics are mostly friendly banter about who has dibs on the girl. The song was a very safe choice as the first single, since it was very conventional and easy to understand. Jackson was afraid that if he released an edgy song like "Billie Jean" or "Beat It" first, people wouldn't give the album a chance. McCartney was 40 years old and well into one of the most stable marriages in rock (to his wife, Linda, who was present at the recording session), when this song was released. Hearing him bicker with the 24-year-old Jackson over a girl was kind of ludicrous, but there are only so many homosocial duet topics out there.
According to Jet Magazine, Jackson wrote the song with McCartney while watching cartoons. Jones had apparently approached Jackson about writing a song featuring two men fighting over a girl. Liking the idea, Michael, woke in the middle of the night one evening and sang the song into a tape recorder. “I sang exactly what I heard in my head, starting with the melody and the keyboard and the strings and everything,” Jackson said. “So, I just orally put it all on tape.”
The song was recorded at Westlake Studios, Los Angeles, from April 14 to 16, 1982. The year before, Jackson and McCartney had recorded "Say Say Say" and "The Man". Several members of the band Toto participated in the recording of this song, including David Paich (piano), Jeff Porcaro (drums), Steve Lukather (guitars) and Steve Porcaro (synthesizer programming). Although "The Girl Is Mine" was released as a single, Jackson and McCartney never performed the song live. The single's cover photograph was taken by McCartney's wife, Linda
​
https://preview.redd.it/0d4bl8wt143b1.jpg?width=225&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=46787742be7c50b5ce7dbe70bb237a08949df599
Michael Jackson said:

"One of my favorite songs to record of all of my recordings as a solo artist is probably 'The Girl Is Mine' because working with Paul McCartney was pretty exciting and we just literally had fun. It was like lots of kibitzing and playing and throwing stuff at each other and making jokes.We actually recorded the (instrumental) track and the vocals pretty much live at the same time, and we do have footage of it, but it's never been shown. Maybe one day we'll give you a sneak preview of it."

Thriller engineer Bruce Swedien told MusicRadar about one of Jackson's studio quirks:

"Interestingly, we always recorded with Michael in the dark - he hated light. I mean I would have a little bit of light for him, but the studio was absolutely dark. I think one reason why he wanted this - and why it works so effectively - is that through my study of acoustics and so on, I found that the human being is primarily a visual animal, hearing is our second sense. People can be distracted by too much light in the studio to the extent that it can take away from the music."

Despite the song's success, it received generally mixed reviews from critics who considered it to be the weakest song on Thriller. Journalist Robert Christgau described the pairing of McCartney and Jackson as "Michael's worst idea since 'Ben'". Rolling Stone stated that the song was a "wimpoid MOR [middle of the road] ballad" and that McCartney was "tame". Billboard called it a "breezy lighthearted love song capped by some playful superstar banter at the tag." Stephen Erlewine of AllMusic noted that the song had a "sweet schmaltz". Jackson's breakdown with the "irrepressibly silly Paul McCartney" was "disarmingly goofy", according to Stylus Magazine. Salon.com later described "The Girl Is Mine" as a "sappy duet". They concluded that McCartney had become a "wimpy old fart".The song garnered a favorable review from Jackson's biographer, J. Randy Taraborrelli. The writer stated that the song was "cute" but lacked substance. He added that the track had a "middle-of-the-road calm" and was the antithesis of the "rambunctious" "Beat It".
​
https://preview.redd.it/fe7us5kw143b1.jpg?width=1668&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=aab976566d82c3deba2cc729f3f08865c578329e
"The Girl Is Mine" has been the subject of two plagiarism lawsuits, the first in 1984 and the latter in 1993. Both instances required Jackson to testify in court, and each lawsuit was decided in his favor. The first legal trial occurred in 1984, with Fred Sanford claiming that Jackson had cut a tape of his song, "Please Love Me Now". Jackson, however, insisted that he composed "The Girl Is Mine". The $5 million copyright suit was closed after the jury of five men and a woman reached a verdict in favor of Jackson. Their verdict was reached after a three-day deliberation. Jackson was not a defendant in the trial but testified to maintain his credibility.
James Klenk, Jackson's attorney, praised the singer upon the jury's verdict. "The man is a genius. He doesn't need anyone else's songs. His own words were the key." During the court proceedings, Jackson revealed how he composes his songs. "I put them in a tape recorder and I orally sing them into the tape, and that's how it happens." One juror stated, "His presentation indicated that he was well able to develop his own songs."
The song's second plagiarism trial was in 1993. Reynaud Jones and Robert Smith alleged that "The Girl Is Mine", along with "Thriller", written by Rod Temperton & "We Are the World", resembled their musical works. The pair added that they had been childhood neighbors of the Jackson family when they had resided in Gary, Indiana. Jackson, Lionel Richie (co-writer of "We Are the World") and Quincy Jones were named as the defendants. The plaintiffs asserted that Joseph Jackson had received a demo tape from them. From the tapes, the defendants were alleged to have stolen the three hit songs. Reynaud Jones also claimed that he had considered suing Jackson over "Billie Jean". Jackson appeared in court via a taped testimony. Following the testimony, the nine-member jury found Jackson to be the writer and composer of "The Girl Is Mine" in early 1994. They also ruled that the defendants had not plagiarized "Thriller" or "We Are the World"
In 2008, for the 25th anniversary edition of Thriller, Black Eyed Peas singer will.i.am remixed "The Girl Is Mine", featuring an original solo demo of the song by Jackson without McCartney. will.i.am added his own vocals and new verse. The song reached #12 in New Zealand, #22 in France, in the top 50 of Denmark and Sweden, and #51 in Switzerland.
The remix received generally unfavorable reviews from music critics. Journalist Christopher Rees stated that will.i.am had "done a fantastic job of murdering a classic song". Rob Sheffield of Rolling Stone wrote that at will.i.am's production was "dumb-thug bluster" and criticized him for trying to hide the "goofy 'doggone' hook"—"the whole point of the song". Music journalist Aidin Vaziri wrote that will.i.am "completely erases Paul McCartney's vocal track from the original duet to make room for himself spouting nonsense". Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic claimed that will.i.am had turned "The Girl Is Mine" into a "hapless dance number". Kelefa Sanneh of Blender wrote that "will.i.am contributes beats (why?) and rhymes (why, oh, why?) to 'The Girl Is Mine 2008'". IGN's Todd Gilchrist stated that will.i.am's "The Girl Is Mine" remix was an offense. The offense was made even more "egregious" by the insertion of his own "atonal vocal presence" in place of McCartney's.
Pitchfork Media added to the unfavorable reviews, stating of will.i.am, "He takes Macca off 'The Girl Is Mine' but decides it can't work without someone sounding like an idiot and steps manfully in himself." The Times stated that whoever thought it was a good idea for will.i.am to participate in the song ought to be "locked in a windowless cell with nothing but those songs on a continuous loop".PopMatters, however, praised Thriller 25 and the remix of "The Girl Is Mine". They wrote, "Any album good enough to make you forgive (although maybe not forget) a song as bad as the Paul McCartney duet 'The Girl is Mine' has got to be damn good." They added that will.i.am had put a "breezy spin" on the track and that the song's omission of McCartney did not suffer because of it.
Though the remix sampled the demo, The Daily Telegraph alleged that McCartney was omitted because he and Jackson had fallen out over Jackson's purchase of Sony/ATV Music Publishing and the Beatles' song catalogue in 1985. However, the original version of "The Girl Is Mine" was included on Thriller 25 with McCartney's vocals included.
Fifteen years after this song was released, Brandy and Monica teamed up for a lyrically similar duet, "The Boy Is Mine," which drew inspiration from this song.
It has been covered 28 times
And sampled in 11 songs, including:

• "Good Good"(2008) by Ashanti
• "Shakiyla" (1991) by Poor Righteous Teachers (1991)
• "Fun Day" (1991) by Stevie Wonder (1991)

^\psychedelicS)

Abstract

Background:
Classic serotonergic psychedelics have anecdotally been reported to show a characteristic pattern of subacute effects that persist after the acute effects of the substance have subsided. These transient effects, sometimes labeled as the ‘psychedelic afterglow’, have been suggested to be associated with enhanced effectiveness of psychotherapeutic interventions in the subacute period.
Objectives:
This systematic review provides an overview of subacute effects of psychedelics.
Methods:
Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science Core Collection) were searched for studies that assessed the effects of psychedelics (LSD, psilocybin, DMT, 5-MeO-DMT, mescaline, or ayahuasca) on psychological outcome measures and subacute adverse effects in human adults between 1950 and August 2021, occurring between 1 day and 1 month after drug use.
Results:
Forty-eight studies including a total number of 1,774 participants were eligible for review. Taken together, the following subacute effects were observed: reductions in different psychopathological symptoms; increases in wellbeing, mood, mindfulness, social measures, spirituality, and positive behavioral changes; mixed changes in personality/values/attitudes, and creativity/flexibility. Subacute adverse effects comprised a wide range of complaints, including headaches, sleep disturbances, and individual cases of increased psychological distress.
Discussion:
Results support narrative reports of a subacute psychedelic ‘afterglow’ phenomenon comprising potentially beneficial changes in the perception of self, others, and the environment. Subacute adverse events were mild to severe, and no serious adverse events were reported. Many studies, however, lacked a standardized assessment of adverse effects. Future studies are needed to investigate the role of possible moderator variables and to reveal if and how positive effects from the subacute window may consolidate into long-term mental health benefits.

Figure 2

Number of studies reporting a significant effect in the respective outcome domain.

^a Since the domain of Personality/Values/Attitudes does not qualify for the dichotomous classification of ‘increase/decrease’, all changes were summarized with the label ‘other change’. Nine studies collected data on broad personality measures, e.g. using the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory,⁷⁰ or the revised NEO Personality Inventory.⁷¹ Four of those studies (44%) reported subacute effects: one study each reported a decrease in hypochondriasis,²⁵ an increase in openness,⁴⁰ an increase in conscientiousness,⁵⁷ and a decrease in neuroticism, and an increase in agreeableness.⁶⁰ Six studies reported on 12 outcome measures assessing specific personality traits/values/attitudes. Except optimism, each of them was assessed only once: an increase was reported in religious values,²³ optimism,^40,72 nature relatedness,⁴⁷ absorption, dispositional positive emotions,⁵⁷ self-esteem, emotional stability, resilience, meaning in life, and gratitude.⁶⁵ A decrease was reported in authoritarianism⁴⁷ and pessimism.⁴⁸ Four studies reported on the two subscales ‘attitudes toward life and self’ of the Persisting Effects Questionnaire. All reported increased positive attitudes,^3,5,34,49 and one study reported increased negative attitudes at low doses of psilocybin.^34
b Six out of 10 studies reported effects in the outcome domain of mood: one study reported an increase in dreaminess (shown as ‘other change’),³⁰ one study reported a subacute decrease in negative affect, tension, depression, and total mood disturbances,⁵⁷ and four studies reported positive mood changes.^3,5,34,49
c One study observed an increase in convergent and divergent thinking at different subacute assessment points and was therefore classified half as ‘increase’ and half as ‘decrease’.^54
d Four studies collected complaints in the subacute follow-up using a standardized list of complaints: three of these studies reported no change,^29,39,41 one study reported an increase in complaints after 1 day but not 1 week.²⁸ One other study reported a reduction in migraines.⁶⁷ One study assessed general subjective drug effects lasting into the subacute follow-up period and reported no lasting subjective drug effects.^39
e Johnson et al.³ report a peak of withdrawal symptoms 1 week after the substance session. However, since the substance session coincided with the target quit date of tobacco, this was not considered a subacute effect of psilocybin but of tobacco abstinence.
^f Including intelligence, visual perception,²⁷ and a screening for cognitive impairments.⁵⁵

Conclusion

If subacute effects occurred after using psychedelics in a safe environment, these were, for many participants, changes toward indicators of increased mental health and wellbeing. The use of psychedelics was associated with a range of subacute effects that corroborate narrative reports of a subacute afterglow phenomenon, comprising reduced psychopathology, increased wellbeing, and potentially beneficial changes in the perception of self, others, and the environment. Mild-to-severe subacute adverse events were observed, including headaches, sleep disturbances, and individual cases of increased psychological distress, no serious adverse event was reported. Since many studies lacked a standardized assessment of adverse events, results might be biased, however, by selective assessment or selective reporting of adverse effects and rare or very rare adverse effects may not have been detected yet due to small sample sizes.
Future studies are needed to investigate the role of possible moderator variables (e.g. different psychedelic substances and dosages), the relationship between acute, subacute, and long-term effects, and whether and how the consolidation of positive effects from the subacute window into long-term mental health benefits can be supported.

Source

• The psychedelic afterglow phenomenon: a systematic review of subacute effects of classic serotonergic psychedelics Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology [May 2023]

Further Research

• The AfterGlow ‘Flow State’ Effect ☀️🧘; Glutamate Modulation: Precursor to BDNF (Neuroplasticity) and GABA; Psychedelics Vs. SSRIs MoA*; No AfterGlow Effect/Irritable❓ Try GABA Cofactors; Further Research: BDNF ⇨ TrkB ⇨ mTOR Pathway.
• Although new (flawed?) research may indicate oxytocin as well as BDNF also involved. To Take A Deep-Dive.

Classic Psychedelics

• 🧠 #MindAlteringDataScience 🔢📊📈🗒 Collection:
  • 📊🗒 Figures 1, 3, 8, 12, 16 The Bright Side of Psychedelics: Latest Advances and Challenges in Neuropharmacology International Journal of Molecular Sciences [Jan 2023]

Tinnitus is the perception of sound in the absence of external sound. It can be described as ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, or other noises. Tinnitus can be caused by a number of factors, including ear infections, hearing loss, exposure to loud noise, and certain medications.
Ear infections are a common cause of tinnitus, especially in children. When the eardrum and middle ear become infected, it can cause inflammation and damage to the tiny hairs in the inner ear. This damage can lead to tinnitus.
In most cases, tinnitus caused by an ear infection will go away once the infection is treated. However, in some cases, the tinnitus may persist even after the i Tinnitus with Ear Infection. If you have tinnitus that is not caused by an ear infection, it is important to see a doctor to rule out other possible causes.
​
https://preview.redd.it/y0j9efnuf63b1.jpg?width=300&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=723d7c37eae21cbfff499198f638bc197b025470
There is no cure for tinnitus, but there are treatments that can help to reduce the symptoms. These treatments may include:

• Masking: This involves using a sound machine or other device to create a background noise that can help to mask the tinnitus.
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy: This type of therapy can help you to learn how to cope with the symptoms of tinnitus and reduce its impact on your life.
• Hearing aids: Hearing aids can help to improve your hearing, which can make the tinnitus less noticeable.

If you have tinnitus, it is important to talk to your doctor about treatment options. There is no one-size-fits-all solution, but with the right treatment, you can learn to manage your symptoms and live a normal life.
Here are some additional tips for managing tinnitus:

• Avoid loud noise. Loud noise can make tinnitus worse.
• Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can make tinnitus worse.
• Manage stress. Stress can make tinnitus worse.
• Relaxation techniques. Relaxation techniques, such as yoga or meditation, can help to reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Caffeine and alcohol can make tinnitus worse.
• Talk to someone. Talking to someone about your tinnitus can help you to feel less alone and cope with the symptoms.

Occupational Therapy for Autism Near Me

Introduction

If you're seeking occupational therapy for autism near you, you're on the right track to helping your loved one with autism thrive. Occupational therapy is a holistic approach that focuses on improving the daily living skills, motor coordination, and sensory integration of individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the benefits of occupational therapy, explore how it can positively impact individuals with autism, provide tips on finding qualified therapists near you, and answer some frequently asked questions about this valuable therapeutic approach.

Occupational Therapy for Autism Near Me

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects social interactions, communication, and behavior. Occupational therapy can play a crucial role in supporting individuals with autism in their daily lives. This therapy focuses on helping individuals develop the necessary skills to engage in meaningful activities, enhance independence, and improve the overall quality of life.

Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Autism

Occupational therapy offers a wide range of benefits for individuals with autism. Here are some key advantages:
Improved Sensory Processing: Many individuals with autism struggle with sensory processing, leading to difficulties in processing and responding to sensory information. Occupational therapy can help individuals regulate their sensory experiences and develop coping mechanisms.
Enhanced Motor Skills: Occupational therapists work on improving fine motor skills, gross motor skills, and coordination. This can enable individuals with autism to engage in activities such as writing, dressing, and self-care tasks with greater ease and confidence.
Promoted Independence: Occupational therapy aims to foster independence in individuals with autism by targeting self-care skills, organizational abilities, and adaptive behaviors. Through therapy, individuals can become more self-sufficient in their daily lives.
Social Skill Development: Occupational therapists provide strategies and interventions to support the development of social skills. This can include activities that encourage communication, turn-taking, and social interaction.
Behavioral Management: Occupational therapy can assist individuals with autism in managing challenging behaviors by teaching them alternative coping mechanisms, self-regulation techniques, and strategies for emotional regulation.

Finding Qualified Occupational Therapists Near You

Finding a qualified occupational therapist for autism near you is essential to ensure the best outcomes for your loved one. Here are some strategies to help you in your search:
Ask for Recommendations: Seek recommendations from your child's pediatrician, school professionals, or other parents who have experience with occupational therapy for autism. They may provide valuable insights and suggestions.
Research Local Resources: Utilize online directories and search engines to find occupational therapists near you. Look for therapists specializing in autism and check their credentials, experience, and reviews.
Contact Local Autism Organizations: Reach out to local autism organizations or support groups. They often have a network of professionals and can guide you to reputable occupational therapists who specialize in working with individuals with autism.
Consult with Insurance Providers: Contact your insurance provider to inquire about coverage for occupational therapy services. They can provide a list of in-network providers and guide you through the process of accessing services.
Consider Teletherapy: With the advancement of technology, teletherapy has become an option for accessing occupational therapy services remotely. Research reputable teletherapy platforms and discuss the suitability of this approach with potential therapists.

FAQs about Occupational Therapy for Autism

Here are some frequently asked questions about occupational therapy for autism, along with concise answers:
Q: What age is appropriate for occupational therapy for autism near me?
A. Is occupational therapy for autism near me? A: Occupational therapy can be beneficial for individuals with autism of all ages. It is important to start therapy as early as possible to maximize the benefits and support the development of essential skills.
Q: How often should occupational therapy sessions be scheduled?
A. The frequency of occupational therapy sessions can vary depending on the individual's needs and goals. It is common for sessions to be scheduled once or twice a week, but this can be adjusted based on the therapist's recommendations and the progress being made.
Q: What can I expect during an occupational therapy session for autism?
A. Occupational therapy sessions for autism are tailored to the individual's specific needs. They may include activities to improve motor skills, sensory integration exercises, social skill development, and strategies for managing behavior. Therapists often use play-based approaches to engage and motivate the individual.
Q: How long does occupational therapy for autism typically last?
A. The duration of occupational therapy for autism can vary depending on the individual's progress and goals. Some individuals may benefit from therapy for a few months, while others may continue for several years. Regular assessments and discussions with the therapist can help determine the appropriate duration.
Q. Can occupational therapy for autism be combined with other interventions?
A. Yes, occupational therapy can be integrated with other interventions for autism, such as speech therapy, applied behavior analysis (ABA), and educational support. Collaborative efforts among professionals can provide a comprehensive approach to addressing the unique needs of individuals with autism.
Q: Are there any home activities or strategies I can implement to support occupational therapy for autism?
A. Absolutely! Your occupational therapist can provide you with specific strategies and activities to incorporate into your daily routines at home. These may include sensory-friendly activities, fine motor skill exercises, visual schedules, and strategies to promote independence.

Conclusion

Occupational therapy is a valuable resource for individuals with autism, providing them with the tools and skills necessary to navigate daily life more independently and confidently. By seeking out qualified occupational therapists near you, you can ensure that your loved one receives the best possible care and support. Remember to consider the benefits of occupational therapy, utilize the strategies for finding qualified therapists, and explore the FAQs to gain a deeper understanding of this therapeutic approach. With the right Occupational Therapy for Autism Near Me, individuals with autism can thrive and reach their full potential.