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PROJECT TIMELINES (PDF)
BELLEVUE ELEMENTARY
BERTHA BARBER
BIRCHCREST
Blank Title
FORT CROOK
LEONARD LAWRENCE
PETER SARPY
TWIN RIDGE
TWO SPRINGS
WAKE ROBIN
LOGAN FONTENELLE
BELLEVUE WEST
CHAP CENTER
LIED ACTIVITY CENTER
TRANSPORTATION CENTER
PROGRAM MANAGER REPORT
ROOFING REPORT
MISSIONhc34494g2018-01-21T00:29:32+00:00
MISSION MIDDLE SCHOOL
Location: 2202 Washington Street
Grades Served: 7-8
History: Mission is the latest name of the Bellevue Public Schools building located on the northwest corner of Mission Avenue and Washington Street. Built in 1869, it was known as Bellevue School District #1 until 1911, when it was renamed Main School. In the early 1950s, the school became known as Bellevue Junior/Senior High School and educated students grades 7-12. In February 1962, when the new Bellevue Senior High school opened for grades 10-12, the school was again renamed to Bellevue Junior High School for grades 7-9. When a second junior high was built in 1966, students helped name the two buildings by sending recommendations to the Board of Education. Bellevue Junior High School became Mission Junior High School and later Mission Middle School. The name Mission honors the first school built in Bellevue by the Presbyterian Board of Missions in 1846 serving Omaha, Pawnee, and Otoe children. When the Omahas sold their land to the federal government in 1854, they gave one square mile of land in present day Bellevue to the Presbyterian Board of Missions. Mission Middle school is located on this historical Mission Reserve.
School Mascot: Mission Braves
School Colors: Purple and White
School Purpose: Mission Middle School commits to being an exemplary school by operating as a CLASS ACT, doing whatever it takes to ensure that our students reach their highest level of success.
Principal: Jenny Powell, Ed.D.
Roof Replacement (Maintenance)
Gym Bleacher Replacement
School Improvement Planning Begins
Anticipated Construction Start
Anticipated Construction Completion
Project Notes
October 14, 2019 – Mission Middle School
Work was completed over the Summer of 2019 on the full replacement of the existing running track at Mission Middle School. The previous asphalt track was in very poor condition and was removed down to grade. A new asphalt track system was installed in its place.
February 21, 2019 – Mission Middle School
As part of the bond work scheduled in the District, one of the items scheduled for replacement place the existing bleachers in the gym at Mission Middle High School. The new seating will replace the existing wood bleachers with new retractable contoured plastic bench seats. Work on the installation of the new bleachers were completed just prior to the end of the year and are in full use.
The Bellevue School District is looking at completing renovations to the existing track at Mission. The track at the school was omitted from the initial proposed bond work, but in review of existing conditions, it was determined that the condition of the track was actually in worse condition than the other middle school tracks in the District. Engineering plans are currently being prepared to replace the existing asphalt track with a new asphalt track with miscellaneous revisions around the track. Bids will be received in mid-March for consideration by the Board in April 2019.
July 8, 2018 -Mission Middle School
The Bellevue School Board approved at the May 2018 meeting a contract with Heartland Seating to replace the existing bleachers in the gym at Mission Middle School. The new seating will replace the existing wood bleachers with new retractable contoured plastic bench seats. Work is tentatively scheduled to start shortly after September 1st, 2018 and will be completed in the Fall of 2018.
The Bellevue School Board is looking at completing renovations to the existing track at Mission. Some preliminary options were discussed at the May BPS Board meeting and it appears that there is a possibility of the track receiving a new rubberized surfacing material. Plans will be prepared and put out to bids to determine final costs and will be presented to the Board possibly in June of 2018.
Also occurring at Mission in 2018 is the scheduled replacement of the existing bleacher systems within the main gym area. The Bellevue School Board approved at the May 2018 meeting a contract with Heartland Seating to replace the existing bleachers in the gym at Mission. The new seating will replace the existing wood bleachers with new retractable contoured plastic bench seats. Work is tentatively scheduled to start shortly after September 1st, 2018 and will be completed in the Fall of 2018.
May 8, 2018 – Mission Middle
The Bellevue School Board approved at the May 2018 meeting a contract with Heartland Seating to replace the existing bleachers in the gym at Mission Middle High School. The new seating will replace the existing wood bleachers with new retractable contoured plastic bench seats. Work is tentatively scheduled to start shortly after September 1st, 2018 and will be completed in the Fall of 2018.
Check back for updates as they become available.


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Articles by S.A. Ahmed
Total Records ( 2 ) for S.A. Ahmed
Assessment of Heavy Metal Content in Some Selected Agricultural Products Planted Along Some Roads in Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Aremu, M.O. , A. Olonisakin and S.A. Ahmed
The levels of iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and ercury (Hg) content were determined in samples of maize, (Zea mays) guinea corn (Sorghum bicolor), bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranean) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) obtained in six different locations along some roads within Nasarawa State, Nigeria by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometery in order to assess the effect of accumulation of the metals of interest on crops as a measure of environmental pollution. The mineral mean value for different locations ranged between: Fe (1.6-18.0, 0.75-7.0; 1.0-29.0 and 2.0-20.0), Zn (2.5-3.1; 2.0-10.2. 0 and 1. 0- 4.0), Cu (0.32-0.42; 0.6-2.0; 1.0-7.0 and 0.48-3.5), Mn (0.03-0.56; 0.31-2.0; 0.5-22 and 0.6-4.5), Pb (0.35-1.35; 1.0-2.1; 1.0-44.0 and 3.2-15.1), Cd (0.15-0.22; 0.15-0.9; 1.0-2.0 and 0.5-1.0) and Hg (not available; 0.1-0.3; 1.0-1.2 and 0.2-1.2) mg/100 g samples of maize, guinea corn, bambara groundnut and cowpea, respectively. The results showed that exhaust gas being released from the automobiles can contribute to the level of lead present in crops and the studied crops can contribute significant amount of cadmium toxicity in diet.
Fertilizer Management of Late Jute Seed Production in Different Agro-Ecological Zones of Bangladesh
M. Monjurul Alam , A.K.M. Maqsudul Alam , S. Khandker , M.N. Gani , S.A. Ahmed and Ahsanul Haque
Responsiveness of the variety Falgooni Tossa i.e. O-9897 (Chorcorus olitorius L.) in late jute seed production to Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) was assessed in different Agro-Ecological Zones (AEZ) with increasing dose of N, P and K fertilizers. A highly significant effect was observed for plant height, number of branches/plant, number of pods/plant, pod length, number of seeds/pod, 1000 seeds weight and seed yield with the application of increasing doses of N fertilizer. There was no significant effect of increasing doses of P fertilizer on plant height, number of branches/plant, pod length and number of seeds/pod but a significant effect found for number of pods/plant, 1000 seeds weight and seed yield. No effect towards seed yield and yield contributing characters was observed with increasing doses of K fertilizer. Significantly high seed yields were found with the application of 100-20-20, 75-40-20 and 100-20-20 kg N-P-K/ha at Rangpur (AEZ No. 3b), Manikganj (AEZ No. 8d) and Kishorganj (AEZ No. 8b) respectively.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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JOIN ME for One of My
Sound Practitioner November 2022
Sound Practitioner Training (32-Hour Certification) is returning to Authentic Yoga Scottsdale. This initiation into the world of the Sound Practitioner is spread over two weekends and explores the history, theory, spirituality, science and practice of sound while providing hands-on training in playing gong, crystal bowls, Tibetan bowls, shruti box, flutes, overtone singing, chimes, and more. This will be an intimate training with limited space.
Dates/Times
Weekend 1:
Saturday & Sunday, November 5-6th 2022, (11am to 7pm)
Saturday & Sunday, November 12-13th 2022, (11am to 7pm)
Regular: $699
Current AYTT Students: $649
Includes all materials.
Sound Practitioner Training is designed for both teachers and students who would like to begin using sound in public or private settings, or for those who are simply drawn to sound and wish to learn more. Sound Therapy and Sound Meditation (also sometimes called Sound Healing) are a range of practices used to bring about physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual changes using sound. Participants will learn the fundamentals of Sound Meditation and Sound Therapy and learn to deliver public and private sound sessions. Yoga and meditation teachers will learn how to incorporate sound therapy and guided meditation into their classes.
Participants in this training receive Certification as a Sound Practitioner (Level I). Yoga Alliance teachers receive 32-hours of Yoga Alliance CEUs.
Includes a full color training manual for lifetime reference.
History & Theory of Sound
History of Sound in Yoga and Shamanic lineages
Use of Sound in Meditation and Therapy
Science of Harmonics and Overtones
Importance of Non-Equal Temperament
Use of Sound in Working with Chakra
Responsible Use of Terminology: Sound Healing, Sound Bath, Gong Bath, Gongmaster, Vibrational Healing, etc.
Physical Effects of Sound: Nervous System, Vagal Nerve, Cellular Responses, Brainwaves
Use of Sound in Ceremonial Settings
Conducting a Sound Classes and Private Sessions
Types of Gongs and Uses
History of Gong and
Metallic Overtone Emitting Instruments
Energetics of Gong Playing
Gong Meditation
The 39 Gong Strokes
Friction Mallets (Flumies)
Hand Gong Techniques
Caring for the Gong
Selecting Gongs
Types of Bowls: Crystal vs. Metallic
Energetics and the Chakra
Playing Techniques and Styles
Use of Drone
Vocalization and Bowls: Toning, Chanting, and
Talking Bowls
Binaural Playing
Selecting and Assembling Bowl Sets
Native American Style Flute
History of Flutes
How to Play Native American Flute
Introduction to Other Flutes: Overtone Flute and Bansuri
Playing Flute with Other Instruments and in Pairs
Vocalization
Finding Your Voice Even if You Think You Can't Sing
Mindful Singing and Chanting for Meditation
Vocal Yoga
Singing and Chanting with Shruti Box and Bowls
Shamanic Drumming
Shamanic Journeying
Use of Frame Drum in Meditation
Hand Drum Techniques and Rhythms
Playing for Yourself and Others
Invoking the Medicine of the Drum
Use of Other Percussion Instruments: Shakers, Rattles, Wave/Ocean Drums, Rain Sticks, etc.
Sound Practitioner Training Live in Scottsdale
Sound Practitioner Training (50-Hour Certification) is returning to Authentic Yoga Scottsdale in a newly expanded 50-hour format. This initiation into the world of the Sound Practitioner is spread over three weeks and explores the history, theory, spirituality, science and practice of sound while providing hands-on training in playing gong, crystal bowls, Tibetan bowls, shruti box, flutes, overtone singing, chimes, and more. This will be an intimate training with limited space.
Saturday & Sunday, September 10-11, (11am to 7pm)
Weekday Sessions
Tuesday/Thursday, September 13 &15, (6pm to 8pm)
Tuesday/Thursday, September 20 & 22, (6pm to 8pm)
Early Bird: $999
Regular: $1,199
Currently enrolled Authentic Yoga Teacher Training students received discounted pricing of $949.
Participants in this training receive Certification as a Sound Practitioner (Level I/II). Yoga Alliance teachers receive 50-hours of Yoga Alliance CEUs.
Spring 2022 Training (SOLD OUT)
Sound Practitioner Training (32-Hour Certification) is returning to Authentic Yoga Scottsdale (formerly Dave's Astanga Yoga). This initiation into the world of the Sound Practitioner is spread over two weekends and explores the history, theory, spirituality, science and practice of sound while providing hands-on training in playing gong, crystal bowls, Tibetan bowls, shruti box, flutes, overtone singing, chimes, and more. This will be an intimate training with limited space.
March 5-6, (11am to 7pm)
March 12-13, (11am to 7pm)
Early Bird: $699 (Register by February 6th)
Regular: $799.
Currently enrolled Authentic Yoga Teacher Training students received discounted pricing of $599 and must pay in full by February 25th.
Sound Journey at Surya Yoga
Release into a state of deep relaxation where the body, mind and spirit connect for deep healing. This workshop begins with setting of intentions and guided meditation before progressing into a full sound journey guided by gongs, singing bowls, vocalization, flutes, percussion, and other traditional instruments. This practice revitalizes the body and provides access to deep states of meditation and awareness. Participants will be laying down for the majority of the class. No prior experience is necessary.
September 24, (6:30 to 8:00 pm)
Register with Surya
Practitioner Training November 2021
In March 2020, just as the world was entering lockdowns, we were in the midst of one our largest Sound Practitioner Trainings to date. It was one of the last group gatherings for the better part of the year as all of our other trainings were cancelled. In November 2020 and February 2021, we re-emerged to conduct more group trainings. They were absolutely beautiful experiences and reminders of how healing it is to be amongst people, in community, creating beautiful sounds and sharing our stories.
With a greater sense of how important and life changing these trainings are, we are returning in November 2021 for what will inevitably be a phenomenal fall training.
November 6-7 & 13-14
Authentic Yoga
7950 E. Redfield Road
As with all of our prior trainings, we expect this one to fill up quickly. For more information or to sign up, please visit the link below.
Inner Shift: Fall Equinox Restorative and Sound
Fall is the time of year where we prepare for turning inward, taking in what is of value. It is a time of reflection and reconnection. The Fall Equinox encourages us to bring balance to all areas of our lives. Join Hamid and Tara for a sound bath, restorative yoga, breathwork, and meditation. This class is for all levels.
September 18th, (6:00 to 7:30 pm)
General public: $35
$30 for currently enrolled Authentic Yoga Teacher Training students.
Registration in Advance is strongly recommended. To register, send payment with full name via Venmo to @hamidjabbar or email for other payment options.
Sound Practitioner Training February 2021
In November of 2020, we wrapped up a beautiful 32-hour training. This group of amazing humans found their voices and hearts over the course of two weekends. We have no doubt, many lives will never the be the same. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to share this experience. There are now over 90 graduates of the Sound Practitioner Training, and they come from all over the country.
February 20-21 & 27-28
As with our last training, this training will be limited to 10 participants and is expected to fill up quickly. For more information or to sign up, please visit the link below.
Sound Practitioner Training November 2020
In March of 2020, we wrapped up a beautiful 32-hour training right as the Global Pandemic was hitting. This group of amazing humans found their voices and hearts over the course of two weekends. We have no doubt, many lives will never the be the same. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to share this experience. There are now over 80 graduates of the Sound Practitioner Training, and they come from all over the country.
For more information or to sign up, please visit the link below.
RESONANCE :: SOUND PRACTITIONER TRAINING & RETREAT
*Unfortunately due to the global pandemic, we cancelled this retreat and hope to be able to bring to the community some time in the future.*
Join me and my dear friend Lindsey Kraten for a beautiful extended Memorial weekend retreat/training at the Sheep Rock Ranch near sacred Mount Shasta. This will be an initiation into the world of the Sound Practitioner. Explore the history, spirituality. science, and practice of sound as used in yoga, meditation, and therapy. We have created a special retreat style training where those interested could be fully immersed into the world of sound, along with a daily yoga practice, organic vegetarian/vegan food, nature and community.
Shared King Room: $1,650
Private Queen Room with Shared Bathroom: $1,950
Bring Your Own Tent: $1,250
About Shasta
Mount Shasta, located near the Oregon border in northern California, holds the distinction of being one of the world's preeminent sacred mountains. It is recognized as an eligible Native American cultural and cosmological property on the National Register of Historic Places. Artifacts found in the surrounding area conservatively suggest at least 11,000 years of human habitation, designating this region as one of the longest-occupied areas of North America.
Mount Shasta's vast antiquity and mythic relevance places its significance on par, historically and categorically, with other sacred sites found among the world's oldest known civilizations, including the temples and pyramids of Egypt, Stonehenge, the the Mayan Pyramids and Machu Picchu.
Today experts recognize that these "sacred sites" around the world influence human consciousness and other living organisms in a number of unusual and remarkable ways. They have become colloquially known as ancient "power spots," places where people commonly experience unusual phenomenon such as UFO-related activity, portals into other dimensions, consciousness-altering experiences, and other paranormal-phenomenon.
When one enters into a sacred site of so-called "powerful energy," the mind, body, and spirit are instantly affected. The energy at these places can be felt, sensed, dowsed, photographed, and measured with scientific instrumentation.
What's Icluded:
Food: Simple, Organic, & Vegetarian (vegan + GF options available): 4 dinners, 4 breakfasts & 3 lunches. Lindsey will be preparing the food using her holistic chef skills, along with an assistant.
Accommodation: 4 nights at Sheep Rock Ranch
Daily Yoga: Led by Lindsey every morning on the outdoor deck facing immaculate views of Mt. Shasta and the high dessert.
25-Hour Sound Practitioner Training: 25hr YACEP Yoga Alliance continuing education hours, and Level 1 certification (if not registered with Yoga Alliance). Hamid will be the main instructor and Lindsey will be assisting.
Visit to Mt. Shasta: We will take a trip to visit the sacred mountain where we will explore nature & silence.
Optional Activities: Participants may choose to take a trip to nearby mineral springs, schedule massage, and explore the local trails.
Breathwork Sound Journey
Join Hamid and Jill Honeywell for a night of deep breathwork and sound at Abundant Space. Breathwork provides access to subconscious memories stored throughout the body, enabling safe release and reprocessing and deep emotional healing. In addition, breathwork can take participants into the same sorts of transpersonal states as other practices, such as plant medicines and psychedelic medicines. When combined with live sound of drums, flutes, voice, gongs, singing bowls and more, the practice becomes one of deep entrainment of the entire being.
January 18, (6:00 pm to 7:45 pm)
Abundant Space
10824 N 71st Pl, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
$35 at the door
Purchase here.
Bring:
Participants will be laying down for the majority of class so please bring a mat and any props you may want such as blankets, pillows, and an eye mask.
Sound Practitioner Training Fall 2019
Dates/Times:
Authentic Yoga Scottsdale
7950 E Redfield Ste 170 Scottsdale, AZ 85260
For information and registration, please follow the link below.
Sound Practitioner Training April '19
Sound Practitioner Training (25-Hour Certification) is coming to Urban Yoga. This initiation into the world of the Sound Practitioner is spread over two weekends and explores the history, theory, spirituality, science and practice of sound while providing hands-on training in playing gong, crystal bowls, Tibetan bowls, shruti box, flutes, overtone singing, chimes, and more. This will be an intimate training with limited space.
April 6th, Saturday, 11 am - 7:30 pm
April 7th, Sunday, 10:30 am - 3:30 pm
April 13th, Saturday, 11 am - 7:30 pm
April 14th, Sunday, 10:30 am - 3:30 pm
Regular pricing: $499
Urban Yoga members and YTT graduates receive a discount.
Contact Urban Yoga to register.
All instruments will be provided for use during training but students who own their own gong, flute, bowls, or other instruments are encouraged to bring them!
Winter Solstice Restorative + Sound Healing
Welcome the longest night of the year with Tara Martell and Hamid Jabbar. Let the darkness illuminate your inner light and find the rest and renewal to ignite your winter resolutions. This class will be simple, quiet, restorative asanas along with deep reflection and relaxation, raising the vibration of peace with sound healing using ancient rhythms and vibrational instruments. Restore, illuminate and renew your peace.
"I said to my soul..be still..and wait…so the darkness shall be the light and the stillness the dancing." T.S. Eliot
December 16th, 2018, Sunday, 5:30pm - 7pm
Trance Dance & Cacao Ceremony
Trance dance is a traditional shamanic healing technique that draws on percussive rhythms combined with breath work, entrancing sounds and the use of blindfolds to take participants on an embodied psycho-spiritual journey into deep states of consciousness. The experience, led by Kari Levine and Hamid Jabbar, will begin with setting the sacred space, where ceremonial cacao will be served. This traditional medicine facilitates greater access to heart-centered intuition and connection to the spiritual realm. During the dance, participants are encouraged to move without inhibition in any way the music and energy of the space guides them. Facilitators will safely guide participants into ecstatic states of consciousness where deep physical and emotional healing, as well as spiritual insights, can occur.
September 22nd, 2018, Saturday, 7:00-8:30 pm
Urban Yoga Phoenix
1 E. Lexington Ave. Phoenix, AZ 85012
Ocean Renewal Retreat
Join Hamid Jabbar at the world famous Haramara Retreat in Sayulita, Mexico for 7-nights of deep connection. The Haramara Retreat is consistently ranked amongst the top retreat centers in the world and a perfect place for those seeking a respite from distractions of daily life and place to connect with the earth, sea, self, and others. We will explore sound, meditation, philosophy, movement and ceremonial practices expanding our consciousness and bliss!
The word "Haramara" means "Mother Sea" in the native Huichol Indian language. Haramara provides "an exclusive, intimate and secluded seaside retreat offering superior mind body spirit experiences along with sensual tropical harmony to every guest." The magical town of Sayulita is a short walk through the jungle.
Sayulita, Mexico
Retreat Includes:
7 nights lodging in luxury open-air cabana
3 delicious and organic gourmet vegetarian meals per day
Daily activities including yoga, meditation, sound journeys, ceremonies, and group discussions
Ground transportation to/from Puerto Vallarata airport
Featured Activities:
All activities are optional! Enjoy Haramara with unlimited down time to restore your body, mind, and spirit and join in for the activities that call to you.
Expand your knowledge or simple appreciation of sound and mantra with daily chanting. Bring your favorite instrument to join in group playing sessions and circles.
Move your body with yoga, Thai Chi, Falun Dafa, and other physical practices.
Find stillness in guided meditation and yoga nidra practice, or venture off to quiet peaceful areas for your own meditation.
Join in ceremony and group discussions to deepen our awareness and appreciation of life!
Explore the on-site Therapeutic Wellness Spa services including some of the best massage practitioners in the world.
Take a day-trip to the Marietas Islands for snorkeling, or venture out to nearby jungles and beaches for surfing.
Lounge at the infinity pool or Haramara's own private beach.
Enjoy the most amazing sunsets in the world.
All-Inclusive Rate Options:
Single $2600
Double $2100
Triple $1800
Dorm (Female) $1600
EARLY BIRD PRICING TAKE $200 OFF BEFORE DECEMBER 1, 2018.
Reserve Your Space!
December 1, 2018 | $300 Due
February 1, 2019 | $600 Due
March 1, 2019 | Balance Due
Sound Practitioner Training at Dave's Astanga
Sound Practitioner Training is coming to Dave's Astanga Yoga. This initiation into the world of the Sound Practitioner is spread over two weekends and explores the history, theory, spirituality, science and practice of sound while providing hands-on training in playing gong, crystal bowls, Tibetan bowls, shruti box, flutes, overtone singing, chimes, and more. This will be an intimate training with limited space.
November 10th, 2018, Saturday, 1:30–7:30 November 11th, Sunday, 12:00–7:00 November 17th, Saturday, 1:30–7:30 November 18th, Sunday, 12:00–7:00
Dave's Astanga Yoga
Early Bird $499 (Register by October 20th)
Regular $599. Includes all materials.
AYTT Student pricing $449.
Current Meditation Sound Training
Current Meditation is an innovative approach to meditation that blends scientifically backed techniques with live sound of singing bowls and gong. I am happy to be offering a specialized Sound Meditation Training at Current March 24-25. The program will cover the science of sound meditation with hands-on instruction and study in the playing of singing bowls and gong. Students will leave with the understanding of how to guide a Sound Meditation using these instruments.
March 24th, Saturday: 3:30pm – 8:00 pm March 25th, Sunday: 3:45pm – 8:00 pm
Urban Yoga Sound Practitioner Training
Dive deep into Sound with Urban Yoga's Sound Practitioner Training led by Hamid Jabbar! Spread over two weekends, this 25-hour training explores the history, theory, and science of sound while providing hands-on training in playing gong, crystal bowls, Tibetan bowls, shruti box, flutes, overtone singing, chimes, and more. This will be an intimate training with limited space.
April 28th, Saturday : 10:30-6:00
April 29th, Sunday : 10:00-3:00
May 5th, Saturday : 10:30-6:00
May 6th, Sunday : 10:00-3:00
Early Bird $450 (Register by April 14th)
Regular $550.
Participants in this training receive Certification as a Sound Practitioner (Level I) from Urban Yoga. Yoga Alliance teachers receive 25-hours of Yoga Alliance CEUs.
Transcendental Sound Journey
Join Hamid Jabbar and Jill Honeywell for a 2 hour transcendental sound journey. Explore altered states of awareness, deep meditation, and relaxation using guided meditation, breathwork, and sound. This experience will take participants through an extended sound meditation journey that begins with opening of sacred space, setting of intentions, gentle movements, and deep breathwork. The class progresses into a full sound journey with gongs, bowls, vocalization, flutes, percussion, and other traditional instruments. This practice revitalizes the body and provides access to deep states of meditation and awareness. Participants will be laying down for the majority of the class, so it's best to wear warmer clothing.
January 27th, Saturday, 6:00-8:00 pm
April 14th, Saturday, 6:00-8:00 pm
June 9th, Saturday, 7:00-9:00 pm
October 6th, Saturday, 6:30-8:30 pm
Urban Yoga 200/300 Hour Teacher Training
After two years of co-directing the 200-hour teacher training program at Urban Yoga, I am so excited to be part of our inaugural 300-hour advanced teacher training program starting in February 2017! The 300-hour advanced program lasts a full year and meets just one weekend per month, making it accessible for current teachers and advanced students with other commitments. Tara Martell and I lead the program but have gathered the very best teachers from around Arizona to present in the areas of their expertise.
December 10th, Saturday, 11AM/12AM
To learn more or to sign up, please visit Urban Yoga by clicking the button below.
Visit Urban yoga
Spring YTT
Registration is now open for our next 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training at Urban Yoga, which runs February 20th-May 7th. Discovery yourself, expand your journey, and dive deep into the practice of yoga.
February 20th-May 7th
Key topics of study include
Fundamental & key elements of asana & anatomy, with a strong emphasis on safety & alignment principles
Yoga philosophy, history, & sacred texts
A combination of classical & contemporary techniques from a variety of major hatha yoga systems
Chakras, bandhas, mudras, kleshas, kriyas & koshas
Modifying classes for special needs, pre & post natal yoga
Ayurvedic Science & Holistic Living
Learning Sanskrit, basic chanting & sound therapy
Pranayama & meditation
Art of sequencing a class, setting a theme, & creating playlists
Practice teaching, teaching methodology & effective manual adjustments
Lifestyle, ethics & mindful living, and more! –
Find our more at: http://urbanyogaphx.com or email me!
Retreat to Haramara
Registration is now open for the retreat of a lifetime with me and Tara Martell to the Haramara Retreat Center. Haramara is consistently ranked amongst the top 5 retreat centers in the world. Contact me for more information or to register.
Haramara Retreat Center
Singles: $2,700
Doubles: $2,300
Triples: $1,800
Dorm $1,600
*Rates increase $200 on January 1, 2016*
3 Meals/day
2 Yoga classes/day
On property beach
Airport ground


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text:
Music: On My Own
Homo Haggard, $stimator, lunch with a friend, walk with a friend, grilling out, and dancing...
Why is it that some people can only "see" homosexuality for what it is when it happens to them or someone they love?
Pastor Ted Haggard, who was exiled from his Colorado church in 2006 in a gay sex scandal, said this week that the incident has altered his views on religion and the culture wars. "The church told me to go to hell," he said. "I now know more about hatred and judgment than ever before, and I know it doesn't help."
In his first interviews since the scandal, Haggard, who now sells life insurance, said his marriage is stronger than ever, but that "sexuality is complex and confusing" and "I still have temptations from time to time."
He also said he no longer opposed gay marriage, and that he'd learned that praying did not make his attraction to men disappear.
Really, praying doesn't change your sexual orientation? Really??? How insightful.
From the Wikipedia entry about him:
After the scandal was publicized, Haggard entered three weeks of intensive counseling, overseen by four ministers. In February 2007, one of those ministers, Tim Ralph, said that Haggard "is completely heterosexual."[3] Ralph later said he meant that therapy "gave Ted the tools to help to embrace his heterosexual side."[4] As of early 2009, Haggard continues to receive counseling, and now he says that he is "heterosexual with issues." [5]
A "heterosexual with issues?" I'll say.
A friend, and regular reader, of my blog (Thanks, Steve!) sent me an instant message telling me that my blog was worth millions, pointing me to this website, which estimates the value (in US dollars) of websites. I ran both my blog URL (http://dailyafirmation.livejournal.com) and my home page (http://www.nematome.info) with these results:
The higher value of the blog is undoubtedly due to the fact that it's part of a high-traffic domain: livejournal.com. It's still fun to look at, though.
I met a friend of mine for lunch today who has been identified in an IBM "resource action" (read: layoff), and we talked about work, lifestyle changes, what's important in life, happiness... you know light topics such as those.
Later in the afternoon, I met a Twitter friend, @justis, and his wife @flowerncsu at Helios, where after Justis had a quick lunch, his wife waited there to meet a friend, and he and I went for a nice downtown Raleigh walk.
We passed by The Roast Grill at ten minutes before closing, and I had to take a peek in 1) because I've never seen that place open though I saw it probably over 200 days of last year's 360, since it's right across from the bar I go to all the time, and 2) because it was just featured (or taped to be featured shortly) on the Food Network.
Robert arrived at around 5:30, and he fired up the grill, where (speaking of hot dogs) he cooked hot dogs for us in the glorious, glorious weather we had today. I prepared the buns and the potato salad, which consisted of opening the package of buns and scooping the potato salad out of the container.
We fell asleep listening to the audio recording of David Sedaris' latest book, "When You're Engulfed in Flames," not because it was boring, but because we were tired.
Dancing was fun enough tonight, though there were some rumblings from the bar manager complaining about the crowd (or rather lack thereof) of Wednesday nights. Since there are generally four patrons in the bar and four or five dancers, my sentiment is, "Let him stop the dancing; then he'll have four people in there on Wednesday nights instead of eight or nine."
He also mentioned that we (the line dancers) don't "mingle enough with the crowd." I really didn't know we worked there. I must be sure to check my W-2 forms for 2008 and see if I have one from Flex.
We went over to CCs a little later, where I hadn't been on a Saturday night since the piano player asked me, "Would you sing a little bit softer? You're throwing me off." But, I'm not bitter.
When we first arrived, there were 7 or 8 women, two of whose dresses were so short that you could see their coochies (white, cotton panties, if you're into that sort of thing, and believe me, 99% of the people in this bar are not) while they did all these suggestive dances, gyrating and squatting up and down against a pole that was only in their minds. As it turned out, one of them, the one in the fishnet stockings was a drag queen.
All I could think of was the Six Feet Under episode that starts off with a bunch of girls whooping it up and having a ball in a limo, until one of them opens the moonroof and sticks her head out. If you watched that show it all, then you can guess what happened to her.
Tags: affirmations, anecdotes, bar talk, coffee shops, dancing, exercise, friends, twitter


Rotation Push Up Bar 4 out of 5 based on 26 ratings.
controlling the aircraft. The airplane is controlled by deflection of flight control surfaces. These are hinged or movable surfaces with which the pilot adjusts the airplane's attitude during takeoff, flight manoeuvring, and landing (airplane attitude refers to whether the airplane is pointing up, down, etc.).
Push Yourself to Double Duty With This Chest and Back Workout – Lead with the back exercise in each pair first; for physique balance, you should aim to pull more weight (and more frequently.


The relationship between The Jonas Brothers was so troubled after the band imploded that they needed to focus all of their energy on restoring it and getting the band back together was considered "impossible"
The relationship between The Jonas Brothers was so bad after their 2013 split that they never thought they would reconcile.
Speaking after their surprise reunion this week and release of new single 'Sucker', he told Z100's Elvis Duran : "When it ended it was not good. It was a couple years of rebuilding our family, and in our mind it seemed impossible for us to do this ever again."
Joe, 29, added: "We had to work through and understand what we were going through when we were that young. It was interesting because for so many years we just put it under the rug. We said, 'We're done, let's just try to rebuild our friendship and our relationship as brothers' – it just happened in its own time."
And it was a documentary, which Kevin, 31, compared to "therapy", that helped the brothers decide to revive the band.
He said: "It was great because we had to have real conversations and not hold back. So for us, it worked out in a good way."
Nick added: "We spent a lot of time filming again, and then I think we saw that there was a magic there we missed. I sort of began the conversation about doing this again and after a few more conversations they came around... Thankfully, some good healing happened during filming this documentary. Now looking up almost a year later, we're in the best place as family, which is the most important thing. From there, this music and new chapter have just been incredible."


A few years back, this post appeared on my pressure cooking blog which will go away one day. Back then, in the olden days, I was the guest chef at VegNews magazine for their special Cafe VegNews lunch. I made my prize-winning recipe for Spicy African Sweet Potato and Ground Nut Stew which wasn't very spicy that day. What goes along with it is millet.
Over at Pinch My Salt people are going ga ga over steel cut oats. And they have to cook them for at least 25 minutes. I, too, like steel cut oats and in fact Alex of the Facebook group Lorna Sass is my homegirl reviewed my DVD and saw that I have a recipe for a cooked cereal. He asked about cooking steel cut oats.


On Saturday, 28th October, we arranged a Walking Picnic special event, called "Food in the Wood" as part of the New Forest Walking Festival, 2017. It is the third year we have been part of the New Forest Walking Festival, and this year we were more ambitious than ever, offering a ten mile walk, with a picnic lunch included.
We started by meeting up at Bolderwood, with hot drinks and Christine's homemade Portuguese custard tarts to give us plenty of energy for the walk. Nigel set off with five intrepid walkers, and headed first into the woods of Highland Water Inclosure, and up as far as the delightful ancient stand of oaks and beeches of Puckpits. Then we headed through Holmhill and Wooson's Hill, towards Knightwood Oak Inclosure, and a visit to Nigel's favourite tree, the Eagle Oak. From there it was a short walk to the lunch stop, in the picnic area at Anderwood. Christine had prepared hot soup, jacket potatoes with coleslaw and sausage rolls, followed by apple crumble and cream.
The afternoon walk took us briefly into Mark Ash wood, where the spectacular beech trees were just showing vivid Autumn colours, and then down through North Oakley to Blackensford, where we headed out onto the open heath of Sandy Ridge, before rounding Bratley Wood, and picking our way through the muddy valley and back to Bolderwood. Again, Christine was waiting with an apricot, yoghurt and pistachio cake and hot drinks.
Nigel's route took people well off the popular tourist tracks, and we were rewarded with a couple of lovely sightings of roe deer. The recent rains had made the going soft and muddy in places, and it took us a good five hours walking to complete the ten miles, but everyone seemed to enjoy a very special day out.


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Positive psychology is a recent branch of psychology whose purpose was summed up in 1998 by Martin Seligman and Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi: "We believe that a psychology of positive human functioning will arise that achieves a scientific understanding and effective interventions to build thriving in individuals, families, and communities." Positive psychologists seek "to find and nurture genius and talent", and "to make normal life more fulfilling", not simply to treat mental illness. The field is intended to complement, not to replace traditional psychology. It does not seek to deny the importance of studying how things go wrong, but rather to emphasize the importance of using the scientific method to determine how things go right. Researchers in the field analyze things like states of pleasure or flow, values, virtues, talents, as well the ways that they can be promoted by social systems and institutions.
Several humanistic psychologists—such as Abraham Maslow, Carl Rogers, and Erich Fromm—developed theories and practices that involved human happiness. Recently the theories of human flourishing developed by these humanistic psychologists have found empirical support from studies by positive psychologists. Positive psychology has also moved ahead in a number of new directions.
Positive psychology began as a new area of psychology in 1998 when Martin Seligman, considered the father of the modern positive psychology movement, chose it as the theme for his term as president of the American Psychological Association, though the term originates with Maslow, in his 1954 book Motivation and Personality, and there have been indications that psychologists since the 1950s have been increasingly focused on promoting mental health rather than merely treating illness. Seligman pointed out that for the half century clinical psychology "has been consumed by a single topic only – mental illness", echoing Maslow's comments. He urged psychologists to continue the earlier missions of psychology of nurturing talent and improving normal life.
The first positive psychology summit took place in 1999. The First International Conference on Positive Psychology took place in 2002. More attention was given by the general public in 2006 when, using the same framework, a course at Harvard University became particularly popular. In June 2009, the First World Congress on Positive Psychology took place.
Historical roots
Positive psychology finds its roots in the humanistic psychology of the 20th century, which focused heavily on happiness and fulfillment. Earlier influences on positive psychology came primarily from philosophical and religious sources, as scientific psychology did not take its modern form until the late 19th century. (See History of psychology)
Judaism promotes a Divine command theory of happiness: happiness and rewards follow from following the commands of the divine.
The ancient Greeks had many schools of thought. Socrates advocated self-knowledge as the path to happiness. Plato's allegory of the cave influenced western thinkers who believe that happiness is found by finding deeper meaning. Aristotle believed that happiness, or eudaimonia is constituted by rational activity in accordance with virtue over a complete life. The Epicureans believed in reaching happiness through the enjoyment of simple pleasures. The Stoics believed they could remain happy by being objective and reasonable, and they describe many "spiritual exercises" that have been compared to the psychological exercises employed in CBT and Positive Psychology.
Christianity continued to follow the Divine command theory of happiness. In the Middle Ages, Christianity taught that true happiness would not be found until the afterlife. The seven deadly sins are about earthly self-indulgence and narcissism. On the other hand, the Four Cardinal Virtues and Three Theological Virtues were supposed to keep one from sin.
During the Renaissance and Age of Enlightenment, individualism came to be valued. Simultaneously, creative individuals gained prestige, as they were now considered to be artists, not just craftsmen. Utilitarian philosophers such as John Stuart Mill believed that moral actions are those actions that maximize happiness for the most number of people, suggesting an empirical science of happiness should be used to determine which actions are moral (a science of morality). Thomas Jefferson and other proponents of democracy believed that "Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" are inalienable rights, and that it justifies the overthrow of the government.
The Romantics valued individual emotional expression and sought their emotional "true selves," which were unhindered by social norms. At the same time, love and intimacy became the main motivations for people to get married.
"Happiness" encompasses many different emotional and mental phenomena (see below). One method of assessment is Ed Diener's Satisfaction with Life Scale. This 5-question survey corresponds well with impressions from friends and family, and low incidences of depression.
The "Remembering self" may not be the best source of information for pleasing the "Experiencing self"
Rather than long-term, big picture appraisals, some methods attempt to identify the amount of positive affect from one activity to the next. Some scientists use beepers to remind volunteers to write down the details of their current situation. Alternatively, volunteers complete detailed diary entries each morning about the day before. An interesting discrepancy arises when researchers compare the results of these short-term "experience sampling" methods, with long-term appraisals. Namely, the latter may not be very accurate; people may not know what makes their life pleasant from one moment to the next. For instance, parents' appraisals mention their children as sources of pleasure, and yet 'experience sampling' indicates that they were not enjoying caring for their children compared to other activities.
Psychologist Daniel Kahneman explains this discrepancy by differentiating between happiness according to the 'Experiencing Self' compared to the 'Remembering Self'. Kahneman explains that, when we are asked to reflect on experiences, memory biases like the Peak-End effect (e.g. we mostly remember the dramatic parts of a vacation, and how it was at the end) play a large role. One of his more striking findings was in a study of colonoscopy patients. By adding 60 seconds to this invasive procedure, Kahneman actually got participants to report the colonoscopy as more pleasant. He accomplished this by making sure that, for the extra 60 seconds, the colonoscopy instrument was not moved, since movement is the source of the most discomfort. Thus, Kahneman was appealing to the Remembering Self's tendency to focus on the end of the experience. Such findings help explain human error in Affective forecasting – people's ability to predict their future emotional states.
Michael Argyle developed the Oxford Happiness Questionnaire as a broad measure of psychological well-being. This has been criticized as an aggregate of self-esteem, sense of purpose, social interest and kindness, sense of humor and aesthetic appreciation.
Neuroscientific approach
Neuroscience and brain imaging has shown increasing potential for helping science understand happiness and sadness. Though it may be impossible to achieve any comprehensive measure of happiness objectively, some physiological correlates to happiness can be measured. Stefan Klein, in his book The Science of Happiness, links the dynamics of neurobiological systems (i.e., dopaminergic, opiate) to the concepts and findings of positive psychology and social psychology.
Nobel prize winner Eric Kandel and researcher Cynthia Fu describe their findings that depression can be diagnosed very accurately just by looking at fMRI brain scans. The idea is that, by identifying neural correlates for emotions, scientists may be able to use methods like brain scans to tell us more about all the different ways of being "happy".
Evolutionary approach
The evolutionary perspective offers an alternative approach to understand what happiness or quality of life is about. Briefly, it focuses on the questions: What features are included in the brain that allow humans to distinguish between positive and negative states of mind, and how do these features improve humans' ability to survive and reproduce? It claims that answering these questions points towards an understanding of what happiness is about and how to best exploit the capacities of the brain with which humans are endowed. This perspective is presented formally and in detail by the evolutionary biologist Bjørn Grinde in his book Darwinian Happiness.
General findings by topic
Money, once one reaches middle class, may be best spent ensuring one's job and social ties are enjoyable.
Happiness has become a very popular discussion topic in popular culture, especially in the Western world. There are many studies being done to demystify the factors that play into happiness. Although "happiness" can be used to refer to many things, the following describes research that is generally related.
One website, Subjective Well-Being Across Cultures, takes an inside look on the differences of happiness on an international level. Eunkook M. Suh, a professor at University of California, and Shigehiro Oishi, a professor at University of Minnesota , discuss key components to different cultures' views on what creates well-being and happiness. An example of how much well-being can vary is illustrated by a study of over 6,000 students in 43 nations to identify their "mean of Subjective Well-Being" on a scale of 1-7.The rate varied wildly, with China coming in at 3.3, and Brazilians at 6.2. Other studies suggested that two of the main factors for this variation are wealth of the country, and whether the country is individualistic or collectivist. They authors go into more detail about how these matter.
The Midlife crisis may mark the first reliable drop in happiness during the average human's life. Evidence suggests that, with the exception of the years 40 – 50, most people generally get happier as they get older. Researchers specify that people in both their 20s and 70s tend to be happier than during midlife, although the measures of happiness change at different rates (e.g. feelings of stress and anger tend to decline after age 20, worrying drops after age 50, enjoyment had been very slowly declining but finally starts to rise after 50, etc.). These findings are based on decades of data, and controls for cohort groups; the data avoids the risk that the drops in happiness during midlife are due to populations' unique midlife experiences, like a war. The studies have also controlled for income, job status and parenting (as opposed to childfreedom) to try and isolate the effects of age. Researchers found support for the notion that there are changes inside of the individual with age that affect happiness.
This could be for any number of things. Psychological factors could include a greater awareness of one's self and preferences; an ability to control desires and hold more realistic expectations; getting closer to death may motivate people to pursue more goals; improved social skills, like forgiveness, may take years to develop; or happier people may live longer and are slightly overrepresented in the elderly population. Chemical changes that come with age may also be playing a role.
Other studies have found that older individuals report more health problems, but fewer problems overall. Young adults reported more anger, anxiety, depression, financial problems, troubled relationships and career stress. Researchers also suggest that depression in the elderly is often due largely to passivity and inaction – they recommend that people continue to do the things that bring happiness, even in old age.
Buying happiness
In his book Stumbling on Happiness, psychologist Dan Gilbert describes research suggesting that money makes a big difference to the poor (where basic needs are not yet met) but has greatly diminished effects once one reaches middle class (i.e. the Easterlin paradox). Professor of Economics Richard Easterlin notes that job satisfaction does not depend on salary. In other words, having extra money for luxuries does not increase happiness as much as enjoying one's job or social network. Gilbert is thus adamant that people should go to great lengths in order to (a) figure out which jobs they would enjoy and (b) find a way to do one of those jobs for a living (that is, provided one is also attentive to social ties).
Studies have routinely showed that nations are happier when people's needs are met. Some studies suggest, however, that people are happier after spending money on experiences, rather than physical things.
Education and intelligence
English poet Thomas Grey said "Where ignorance is bliss, Tis folly to be wise." Research suggests that neither a good education nor a high IQ reliably increase happiness. Anders Ericsson argues that an IQ above 120 has a decreasing influence on success. Presumably, IQs above 120 do not go much further to cause other happiness indicators like success (with the exception of careers like Theoretical physics, where high IQs are more predictive of success). Above that IQ level, other factors start to matter more, like social skills or a good mentor. One of the main benefits of intelligence and education may simply be that it allows one to reach the middle-class level of need satisfaction (as mentioned above, being richer than this seems to do little for happiness).
Martin Seligman has said that "As a professor, I don't like this, but the cerebral virtues — curiosity, love of learning — are less strongly tied to happiness than interpersonal virtues like kindness, gratitude and capacity for love."
While parenting is sometimes held as the necessary path of adulthood, studies are actually mixed as to whether parents are more likely to report being happier than non-parents. When quantitatively measured by self-report, researchers have found that parents prefer doing almost anything else to looking after their children. On the other hand, parents in self-reports are happier than non-parents. This may be due to already happy people tending to have more children than already non-happy people or that more long-term having children gives more meaning to life. One study found having up to three children increased happiness among married couples, but not among other groups with children. Proponents of Childfreedom maintain that this is because one can enjoy a happy, productive life without ever being a parent.
There is some evidence that suggests that sunnier climates do not predict happiness. In one study, both Californians and Midwesterners expected the former's happiness ratings to be higher due to a sunnier environment. In fact, the Californian and Midwestern happiness ratings did not show a significant difference. Other researchers say the minimum daily-dose of sunlight is as little as 30min.
That is not to say that the weather is never a factor for happiness. Some psychologists suggest changing norms of sunlight in particular can cause Seasonal affective disorder.
Various studies have examined the relationship between Religion and happiness.
Changes in happiness levels
The human ability of emotional Hedonic Adaptation explains why beauty, fame and money do not generally have lasting effects on happiness (this effect has also been called the Hedonic treadmill). The tendency to adapt is clearly illustrated by studies showing that lottery winners are no happier years later. Other studies have shown that, after equally few years, paraplegics are almost as happy as control groups that are not paralyzed (p. 48). Daniel Kahneman explains that "they are not paraplegic full time…It has to do with allocation of attention". Contrary to our impact biases, lotteries and paraplegia do not change experiences in the ways we think, or even to as great a degree. After adaptation, the paraplegics almost returned to their baseline happiness. Adaptation is much slower for other distracting life changes, like the death of a spouse, or losing one's job. These events can show measurable changes in happiness levels for several years. Thus, adaptation does mitigate the emotional effects of many life events, but not entirely.
Some research suggests that large portions of happiness are within a human's control.
Research indicates that genetics play a very significant role in determining one's baseline happiness levels, according to David Lykken. In her book The How of Happiness, Sonja Lyubomirsky similarly argues that people's happiness varies around a genetic set point. Importantly, an individual's base-line happiness is not entirely determined by their genetics, and not even by the early life influences on those genetics. Whether or not a person manages to elevate their base-line to the heights of their genetic possibilities depends partly on factors including actions and habits. Some happiness-boosting habits seem to include gratitude, appreciation, and even altruistic behaviour. Other habits and techniques of increasing happiness have emerged from research and are discussed on this page.
Besides training new habits and antidepressants, getting better exercise and a healthier diet have proven to have strong effects on mood. In fact, exercise is sometimes called the "miracle" or "wonder" drug – alluding to the wide variety of proven benefits that it provides.
Gender effects on wellbeing are paradoxical in that while men report feeling less happy than women, women are more susceptible to depression. Possible explanations include that women may experience more variance (more extremes) in emotion, although women are generally happier.
Martin Seligman writes that "Unlike money, which has at most a small effect, marriage is robustly related to happiness…. In my opinion, the jury is still out on what causes the proven fact that married people are happier than unmarried people." (pp. 55–56) There is also little data on alternatives like Polyamory. On the other hand, at least one large study in Germany found no difference in happiness between married and unmarried people.
An emotionally stable (the opposite of Neurotic) personality correlates well with happiness. Not only does emotional stability make one less prone to negative emotions, it also predicts higher social intelligence – which helps to manage relationships with others (an important part of being happy, discussed below).
Cultivating an extroverted temperament may correlate with happiness for the same reason: it builds relationships and support groups. Some people may be lucky, then, that many personality theories leave room for the idea that individuals have some control over their long term behaviours and cognitions. Genetic studies indicate that it is genes for personality (specifically extraversion, neuroticism and conscientiousness) and a general factor linking all 6 traits that account for the heritability of subjective well-being.
Social ties
In the article " Finding Happiness after Harvard" George Vaillant concludes a study on what aspects of life are important for " successful living". Back in the 1940s Arlie Bock, who was in charge of the Harvard Health Services, started a study by selecting 268 Harvard students from graduating classes of 1942, 43′, and 44′. He wanted to find out what aspects of life create "successful living". In 1967 psychiatrist, George Vaillant helped continue the study, he did follow up interviews with many of the students, now in their 50's, to see how their lives were going. Then in 2000 Vaillant again interviewed these students on the progress of their lives. The characteristics Vaillant was observing were health, close relationships, and how one dealt with their troubles. George Vaillant found that a key aspect to successful living is healthy and strong relationships.
A widely publicized study from 2008 in the British Medical Journal reported that happiness in social networks may spread from person to person. Researchers followed nearly 5000 individuals for 20 years in the long-standing Framingham Heart Study and found clusters of happiness and unhappiness that spread up to 3 degrees of separation on average. Happiness tended to spread through close relationships like friends, siblings, spouses, and next-door neighbors, and the researchers reported that happiness spread more consistently than unhappiness through the network. Moreover, the structure of the social network appeared to have an impact on happiness, as people who were very central (with many friends, and friends of friends) were significantly more likely to be happy than those on the periphery of the network. Overall, the results suggest that happiness can spread through a population like a virus.
One website, Subjective Well-Being Across Cultures, takes an inside look on the differences of happiness on an international level. Eunkook M. Suh, a professor at University of California, and Shigehiro Oishi, a professor at University of Minnesota, discuss key components to different cultures' views on what creates well-being and happiness. An example of how much well-being can vary is illustrated by a study of over 6,000 students in 43 nations to identify their "mean of Subjective Well-Being" on a scale of 1-7.The rate varied wildly, with China coming in at 3.3, and Brazilians at 6.2. Other studies suggested that two of the main factors for this variation are wealth of the country, and whether the country is individualistic or collectivist. They authors go into more detail about how these matter.
Conservatives are happier than liberals. One explanation being greater acceptance of income inequalities in society.
Broad theories
Some researchers in this field posit that positive psychology can be delineated into three overlapping areas of research:
Research into the Pleasant Life, or the "life of enjoyment", examines how people optimally experience, forecast, and savor the positive feelings and emotions that are part of normal and healthy living (e.g. relationships, hobbies, interests, entertainment, etc.). Martin Seligman says that this most transient element of happiness may be the least important, despite the attention it is given.
The study of the Good Life, or the "life of engagement", investigates the beneficial effects of immersion, absorption, and flow that individuals feel when optimally engaged with their primary activities. These states are experienced when there is a positive match between a person's strength and the task they are doing, i.e. when they feel confident that they can accomplish the tasks they face. (See related concepts, Self-efficacy and play)
Inquiry into the Meaningful Life, or "life of affiliation", questions how individuals derive a positive sense of well-being, belonging, meaning, and purpose from being part of and contributing back to something larger and more permanent than themselves (e.g. nature, social groups, organizations, movements, traditions, belief systems).
These categories appear to be neither widely disputed nor adopted by researchers across the 12 years that this academic area has been in existence. Martin Seligman originally proposed these 3 categories, but has since suggested that the last category, "meaningful life", be considered as 3 different categories. The resulting acronym is PERMA (Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and purpose, and Accomplishments).
A portrait commemorating a family's day together
Professor Philip Zimbardo suggests we might also analyze happiness from a "Time Perspective". Zimbardo suggests sorting people's focus in life by valence (positive or negative) but also by their time perspective (past, present, or future orientation). Doing so may reveal some conflicts between individuals to be conflicts, not over whether an activity is enjoyed, but whether one prefers to risk delaying gratification further. Zimbardo also believes that research reveals an optimal balance of perspectives for a happy life; he says our focus on reliving positive aspects of our past should be high, followed by time spent believing in a positive future, and finally spending a moderate (but not excessive) amount of time enjoying the present.
The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions suggests that positive emotions (e.g. happiness, interest, anticipation) broaden one's awareness and encourage novel, varied, and exploratory thoughts and actions. Over time, this broadened behavioral repertoire builds skills and resources. For example, curiosity about a landscape becomes valuable navigational knowledge; pleasant interactions with a stranger become a supportive friendship; aimless physical play becomes exercise and physical excellence.
This is in contrast to negative emotions, which prompt narrow survival-oriented behaviors. For example, the negative emotion of anxiety leads to the specific fight-or-flight response for immediate survival.
Below, research is sorted according to which of Seligman's categories it may be most (but not strictly) related (i.e. the "pleasant", "good", or "meaningful" life). Since these are still fuzzy classifications, research mentioned in one section may be quite relevant in another.
The pleasant life
Simple exercise, such as running, is cited as key to feeling happy.
Abraham Maslow proposed a hierarchy of needs in which more primitive desires must be met (basic physiological, sense of safety) before social needs can be met (e.g. intimacy), and certainly before one can effectively pursue more conceptual needs (e.g. morality).
There is evidence suggesting that negative emotions can be damaging. In an article titled "The undoing effect of positive emotions", Barbara Fredrickson et al. hypothesize that positive emotions undo the cardiovascular effects of negative emotions. When people experience stress, they show increased heart rate, higher blood sugar, immune suppression, and other adaptations optimized for immediate action. If individuals do not regulate these changes once the stress is past, they can lead to illness, coronary heart disease, and heightened mortality. Both lab research and survey research indicate that positive emotions help people who were previously under stress relax back to their physiological baseline. Other research shows that improved mood is one of the various benefits of physical exercise.
Ideas of well-being as a good life trace their origins to Aristotelian ideas of eudaimonia. A range of concepts have grown out of this model including self-efficacy, personal effectiveness, flow, mindfulness etc.
Self-efficacy is one's belief in one's ability to accomplish a task by one's own efforts. Low self-efficacy is associated with depression; high self-efficacy can help one overcome abuse, overcome eating disorders, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. High self-efficacy also improves the immune system, aids in stress management, and decreases pain. A related but somewhat differing concept is Personal effectiveness which is primarily concerned with the methodologies of planning and implementation of accomplishment.
Flow, or a state of absorption in one's work, is characterized by intense concentration, loss of self-awareness, a feeling of being perfectly challenged (neither bored nor overwhelmed), and a sense that "time is flying." Flow is an intrinsically rewarding experience, and it can also help one achieve a goal (e.g. winning a game) or improve skills (e.g. becoming a better chess player). Anyone can experience flow in many different regards, such as play, creativity, and work. To experience flow, one needs to have the correct ratio of challenge for their particular skill set. Therefore, if one is very skilled in a certain regard, they need a lot of challenge or if they are unskilled they need a small amount of challenge. If one is too challenged it results in a state of anxiety and if one is not challenged enough the result is boredom. Being challenged means flow is, of course, temporarily exciting and stressful, but this Eustress is not harmful because it is not chronic stress.
Czikszentmihalyi identifies nine elements of flow: 1. There are clear goals every step of the way, 2. There is immediate feedback to one's action, 3. There is a balance between challenges and skills, 4. Action and awareness are merged, 5. Distractions are excluded from consciousness, 6. There is no worry of failure, 7. Self-consciousness disappears, 8. The sense of time becomes distorted, 9. The activity becomes "autotelic" (an end in itself, done for its own sake)
Mindfulness, may be defined as the intentionally-focused awareness of one's immediate experience. The experience is one of a moment-by-moment attention to thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, and surroundings. To practice mindfulness is to become grounded in the present moment; one's role is simply as observer of the arising and passing away of experience. One does not judge the experiences and thoughts, nor do they try to 'figure things out' and draw conclusions, or change anything – the challenge during mindfulness is to simply observe. Benefits of mindfulness practice include reduction of stress, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. See also Reverence (emotion).
Advocates of focusing on present experiences also mention research by Psychologist Daniel Gilbert, who suggests that daydreaming, instead of focusing on the present, may impede happiness. Other psychologists (see Zimbardo's "Time Perspectives" above) say that it is still important to spend time recalling past positive experiences, and building positive expectations for the future.
The meaningful life
After several years of researching disgust, University of Virginia professor Jonathan Haidt and others studied its opposite, and the term "elevation" was coined. Elevation is a moral emotion and is pleasant. It involves a desire to act morally and do "good"; as an emotion it has a basis in biology, and can sometimes be characterized by a feeling of expansion in the chest or a tingling feeling on the skin.
Optimism and helplessness
There is reason to focus on one's immediate locus of control, and to recognize that this behaviour – from everyone – would solve massive world issues
Learned optimism is the idea that a talent for joy, like any other, can be cultivated. It is contrasted with learned helplessness, which is when one believes that they have no control over what occurs, rather it is something external that dictates their ability to accomplish a task, succeed, etc. Learning optimism is done by consciously challenging self talk if it describes a negative event as a personal failure that permanently affects all areas of the person's life. Reports of happiness have also been correlated with the general ability to "rationalize or explain" social and economic inequalities.
Hope is a learned style of goal-directed thinking in which the person utilizes both pathways thinking (the perceived capacity to find routes to desired goals) and agency thinking (the requisite motivations to use those routes).
Author and journalist J.B. MacKinnon provides a cognitive tool for avoiding helplessness (e.g. paralysis in the face of earth's many problems) in the form of what he calls "Vertical Agitation". The concept comes from research on denial by sociologist Stanley Cohen. Cohen explains that, in the face of massive problems, people tend towards learned helplessness rather than confronting the dissonant facts of the matter. Vertical Agitation, according to MacKinnon, means focusing on only one portion of the problem at a time, and holding oneself accountable for the solving of that problem – all the way to the highest level of government, business and society (e.g. advocating strongly for one thing: eco-friendly lightbulbs). This allows each individual in society to make the vital "trivial" (read:small) changes, without being intimidated by the work that needs to be done as a whole. Mackinnon adds that this will also keep individuals from getting too 'holier than thou' (harassing friends and family about every possible improvement).
As mentioned above, having more money does not reliably cause more happiness. Psychologist Howard Gardner has done more extensive research on what it takes to do good work at one's job. He says young generations (particularly in the United States) have been taught to focus on selfish pursuit of money for its own sake. Gardner's alternatives loosely follow the pleasant/good/meaningful life classifications; he believes young people should be trained to pursue excellence in their field, as well as engagement (see flow, above) in accordance with their moral belief systems.
Strengths and virtues
The Buddhist saying that "Life is Suffering", according to Jordan Peterson, refers to the fact that nature can be harsh and indifferent, which highlights the importance of cultivating virtues
Research and clinical psychologist Jordan Peterson argues that it is natural (but of course not good) for human beings to suffer a great deal. He says this is because living beings are limited and restrained in many important ways. For this reason, Peterson adopts a Buddhist saying that "Life is suffering". He does not think this view is pessimistic, and asserts that accepting the universe's harsh indifference towards living things can free one from the expectation that they should always be happy. This realization can ultimately help one overcome suffering, which is no longer unexpected. This also means that individuals should be all the more delighted when they flourish, when others flourish, or when they build a society where flourishing is anywhere near the norm at all. To Peterson, virtues are important because they give people the tools to escape suffering (e.g. the strength to admit dissonant truths to themselves). Peterson thus believes that suffering is sometimes caused by a false philosophy (one that denies how natural suffering is), and sometimes by a lack of strong virtues – on our part or on the part of people that affect us.
The development of the Character Strengths and Virtues (CSV) handbook represents the first attempt on the part of the research community to identify and classify the positive psychological traits of human beings. Much like the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) of general psychology, the CSV provides a theoretical framework to assist in understanding strengths and virtues and for developing practical applications for positive psychology. This manual identifies six classes of virtue (i.e., "core virtues"), made up of twenty-four measurable character strengths.
The introduction of CSV suggests that these six virtues are considered good by the vast majority of cultures and throughout history and that these traits lead to increased happiness when practiced. Notwithstanding numerous cautions and caveats, this suggestion of universality hints that in addition to trying to broaden the scope of psychological research to include mental wellness, the leaders of the positive psychology movement are challenging moral relativism and suggesting that we are "evolutionarily predisposed" toward certain virtues, that virtue has a biological basis.
Comedians are considered masters of humor.
The organization of these virtues and strengths is as follows:
Wisdom and Knowledge: creativity, curiosity, open-mindedness, love of learning, perspective, innovation
Courage: bravery, persistence, integrity, vitality
Humanity: love, kindness, social intelligence
Justice: citizenship, fairness, leadership
Temperance: forgiveness and mercy, humility, prudence, self control
Transcendence: appreciation of beauty and excellence, gratitude, hope, humor, spirituality
The organization of these virtues into 6 groups is contested. It has been suggested that the 24 strengths identified are more accurately grouped into just 3 or 4 categories: Intellectual Strengths, Interpersonal Strengths, and Temperance Strengths or alternatively Interpersonal Strengths, Fortitude, Vitality, and Cautiousness These general traits, and even their classifications, have emerged independently elsewhere in literature on values. Some examples have been described by Paul Thagard, including Jeff Shrager's workshops that attempt to discover the habits of highly creative people.
Practical applications of positive psychology include helping individuals and organizations identify their strengths and use them to increase and sustain their respective levels of well-being. Therapists, counselors, coaches, and various psychological professionals, as well as HR departments, business strategists, and others are using these new methods and techniques to broaden and build upon the strengths of individuals who are not necessarily suffering from mental illness or disorder.
Researcher Dianne Hales described a person as emotionally healthy as someone who exhibited flexibility and adaptability to different circumstances, had a sense of meaning and affirmation in life as well as an "understanding that the self is not the center of the universe", had compassion and the ability to be unselfish, along with increased depth and satisfaction in intimate relationships, and who had a sense of control over the mind and body.
Proponents of replacing Gross domestic product with Gross national happiness as the predominant measure of a nation's success often cite positive psychology research.
In his paper The Primacy of Positivity, Dr Timothy Sharp argues that happiness is an important first step in achieving success and productivity in one's life. Dr Sharp's 'The Happiness Institute' promotes the achievement of happiness and positive emotions. Sharp believes that positive psychology better equips coaches because it helps individual clients to achieve their goals and to progress effectively. For instance, Dr Sharp's uses positive psychology as a method of weight loss, known as The Happiness Diet. Positive Psychology is used to promote happiness which in turn can increase one's commitment to traditional methods such as diet and exercise.
In Norman Vincent Peale's 1952 book "The Power of Positive Thinking" the positive psychology concept of optimalism is introduced. Optimistic thought has led to a significant market for self-help books as well as feel-good religious movements such as the prosperity gospels of Robert H. Schuller.
Positive psychology is beneficial to schools and students as it encourages individuals to strive to do the best they can whereas scolding has the opposite effect. Clifton and Rath discuss the research conducted by Dr. Elizabeth Hurlock in 1925, who designed a study where fourth, fifth and sixth graders were either praised, criticized or ignored based on their work on math problems. The study found that students who had been praised improved by 71%, those who were criticized improved only by 19%, and those who had been given no feedback improved only by 5%. This early study illustrates that praise is the most effective method of fostering improvement.
According to Clifton and Rath ninety nine out of one hundred people would prefer to be around positive people. People believe that they work more productively when they are around positive people. Positive emotions are contagious so having a teacher or student who is positive can help the other students to be positive and work to the best of their abilities. If there is one negative person, it can ruin the entire positive vibe in an environment. Clifton and Rath believe that 'positive emotions are an essential daily requirement for survival'.
In 2008 a whole-of-school implementation of Positive Psychology was undertaken by Geelong Grammar School (Victoria, Australia) in conjunction with the Positive Psychology Center at the University of Pennsylvania. This involved initial training of teaching staff in the principles and skills of positive psychology. Ongoing support was provided by The Positive Psychology Center staff remaining in-residence for the entire year (Seligman et al. 2008).
Staats, Hupp and Hagley (2008) have used positive psychology to explore academic honesty, by identifying positive traits that were displayed by heroes and then determining if the presence of these traits in students could be used to predict their future intent to cheat. Their research has resulted in 'an effective working model of heroism in the context of the academic environment' (Staats, Hupp & Hagley, 2008).
Applications to Clinical Psychology
A strengths-based approach aims to change clinical psychology to have an equally weighted focus on both positive and negative functioning when attempting to understand and treat distress. The rationale is based on several empirical findings. Positive characteristics interact with negative life events to predict disorder (so studying only negative life events would produce misleading results). Interventions that focus on strengths and positive emotions can be as effective in treating disorder as other more commonly used approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy. The terms positive clinical psychology and other terms are a bit odd as this field has always had scientists and clinicians that address quality of life outcomes. While positive psychology can inform clinical psychology, it is not helpful to stretch beyond this point. This is about changing priorities to address the breadth and depth of the human experience in clinical settings.
Positive psychology has also been implemented in business management practice, but Wong & Davey (2007) acknowledges that although managers can introduce this concept to a workplace, they don't always have the ability to apply it to employees in a positive way. Furthermore, if positive psychology must be applied to an organisation with transparency if it is to be welcomed and committed to by employees. Managers must also understand that the sheer implementation of positive psychology will not combat any commitment challenges they may face. However, it may help employees to be more optimistic to new concepts or management practices.
In their article The Benefits of Frequent Positive Affect: Does Happiness Lead to Success?, S. Lyubomirsky et al. say: "The cross-sectional evidence reveals that happy workers enjoy multiple advantages over their less happy peers. Individuals high in subjective well-being are more likely to secure job interviews, to be evaluated more positively by supervisors once they obtain a job, to show superior performance and productivity, and to handle managerial jobs better. They are also less likely to show counter-productive workplace behavior and job burnout."
Positive psychology, when applied correctly can provide employees with a greater opportunity to use skills and vary work duties. However, It is important to remember that changing work conditions and roles can lead to stress amongst employees if they are not properly supported by management in their venture. This particularly holds true for employees who must meet the expectations of organisations with unrealistic goals and targets.
So how does an organization implement change? Lewis et al. (2007) have developed Appreciative inquiry (AI) which is an integrated, organizational-level methodology for approaching organizational development. Appreciative inquiry is based on an understanding of how organizational resourcefulness is generated through accessing many human psychological processes, such as positive emotional states, imagination, social cohesion and the social construction of reality.
In offender rehabilitation
Traditionally, working with offenders has focused on their deficits (with respect to socialization, schooling etc.) and other "criminogenic" risk-factors. Rehabilitation more often than not takes the form of forced treatment or training for the good of the community. The experience with this approach has not been very rewarding. Positive psychology has made some inroads recently with the advent of the "Good Lives Model", developed by Tony Ward, Shadd Maruna and others with respect to rehabilitation: "Individuals take part … because they think that such activities might either improve the quality of their life (an intrinsic goal) or at least look good to judges, parole boards and family members (an extrinsic goal)."
Other future research
Positive psychology research and practice is also currently being conducted and developed in various countries throughout the world. In Canada, for example, Charles Hackney of Briercrest College applies positive psychology to the topic of personal growth through martial arts training, and Paul Wong, president of the International Network on Personal Meaning, is developing an existential approach to positive psychology.
An 'intense affect' can certainly be considered with cognitive and behavioral change, which is more slight and complex and is becoming a legitimate area of study, specifically with the links in cognition and motivational responses. For researchers to make further progress there is a need for past theories and methods to be overcome and to encourage the more contemporary research, says Isen (2009). Chang (2008) believes emotional intelligence is not definitive to positive affect and researchers have a number of paths that allow the enhancement of emotional intelligence; however more study is required to track the gradient of positive affect in psychology.
Academic Programs that Teach Positive Psychology
The University of Pennsylvania's Positive Psychology Center has developed a masters degree program in positive psychology (MAPP) which is described which they designate "the world's first degree program in positive psychology". This relatively new degree program is under the direction of The Center for Applied Psychology's "senior scholar," James Pawelski, Ph.D. In addition to his work as administrator of the program, Pawelski also teaches courses on "positive intervention" in the program. In a lecture presented at the John C. Dalton Institute of College Student values, Pawelski describes the degree as consisting of monthly intensives coupled with online course work which can be "pursued without interupting your career." The degree "explores the history, theory, and basic research methods of positive psychology", "focuses on such issues as the empirical study of positive emotions, strengths-based character, and healthy institutions", and mentors the student in using "these aspects of positive psychology in" their "particular professional setting."
Another academic program that focuses on training students in Positive Psychology and features both an M.A. and Ph.D. tracts, is offered at the Claremont Graduate University's School of Behavioral and Organizational Sciences and is affiliated with the school's Quality of Life Research Center. This program "aim[s] to provide excellent graduate education and to facilitate the production of practical knowledge" and emphasizes "sampling methods as well as more traditional experimental and quasi-experimental designs, surveys, and interviews, our faculty and students focus their research on life-long processes and outcomes of behavior as they affect the quality of life".
Sample (2003) notes that it is argued by Steven Wolin, a clinical psychiatrist at George Washington University in Washington DC, that the study of positive psychology is a reiteration of older ways of thinking in positive psychology.
The uptake of positive psychology by the popular press, primarily promoting among other claims the health benefits of positive psychology. Snyder and Lopez (cited in Held 2004, p. 17) warn of possible damage to the field of positive psychology through the scientific community becoming caught up in the media's claims of positive psychology. Warning researchers of the field, Snyder and Lopez suggest that they remain within the parameters of scientific professionalism and utilise any research or studies appropriately.
Some negative attributes of positive psychology as described by Held (2004) include the movement's lack of consistency towards the aspect of negativity. She raised issues with the simplistic approach taken by some psychologists in the application of positive psychology. A 'one size fits all' approach is not seen by Held to be beneficial to the advancement of the field of positive psychology, and she suggested a need for individual differences to be incorporated into its application.
Held (2004) argued that while positive psychology makes contributions to the field of psychology, that it is not without its faults. Her 2004 article in the Journal of Humanistic Psychology, vol.44, no.1. offered insight into topics including the negative side effects of positive psychology, the negativity that can be found within the positive psychology movement and the current division inside the field of psychology caused by the differing opinions held by psychologists on positive psychology.
Industrial and Organizational Psychology (I/O Psychology)
LEGAL PSYCHOLOGY (Forensic Psychology)
The Psychology Of Sports Injuries
The Psychology and Sociology of Sports
What is The Psychology of Concentration in Sport Performers? definition of The Psychology of Concentration in Sport Performers
Automatic thoughts questionnaire- Positive (ATQ-P)
Positive Regard
The negative and positive affect scale (NAPAS)
POSITIVE ILLUSION


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Zahi Touma, MD, PhD, FACP, FACR, from the Centre for Prognosis Studies in the Rheumatic Diseases, Toronto Western Hospital, and University of Toronto Lupus Clinic, is coauthor of a recent systematic review and meta-analysis that examined the prevalence of cognitive dysfunction in patients with CLE.7 In an interview with Rheumatology Advisor, Dr Touma explained how rheumatologists can address the challenge of cognitive dysfunction in their patients with SLE.
Rheumatology Advisor: What are the effects of cognitive dysfunction on patients with SLE?
Dr Touma: The nervous system is commonly affected by SLE; the American College of Rheumatology has described 19 manifestations defined as neuropsychiatric SLE (NPSLE). Cognitive impairment (CI) is 1 of the most common manifestations of NPSLE, and can happen at any time in the course of the disease. In our recent systematic review of the literature, the pooled prevalence of CI was 38% (95% CI, 33%-43%). We also found that [patients with lupus] have a higher relative risk of developing CI compared with patients with rheumatoid arthritis and with healthy individuals (relative risk, 1.80 and 2.80, respectively). Patients with SLE often report cognitive problems (attention/vigilance, visuospatial span of attention/working memory, and simple reaction time). However, the diagnosis of CI is very challenging and often delayed, and, more importantly, its monitoring is inconsistent. Studies have shown that CI can negatively affect patients' quality of life. Also, CI can have a negative effect on employment. However, little is known about specific daily life activity and social role participation in patients with CI. Dr Lisa Engel, a postdoctoral research fellow in my lab, is currently conducting several research projects to evaluate the effects of CI on patients' everyday life activity limitations and life role participation restrictions.
Rheumatology Advisor: Should rheumatologists routinely monitor patients with SLE for cognitive dysfunction?
Dr Touma: The answer is yes. Early detection of CI is essential to direct patient care so as to help patients adapt accordingly to lessen the effects of possible cognitive decline and disability. However, as mentioned here, the screening, diagnosis, and monitoring for CI in lupus is not well developed. The gold standard test recommended by the American College of Rheumatology to assess cognitive function is a 1- to 2-hour battery (American College of Rheumatology-SLE battery) of tests.7 These tests are administered and scored by psychometrists and interpreted by neuropsychologists. Unfortunately, the application of this battery is time consuming and is associated with a cost burden. Further studies are needed to determine the best screening and diagnostic tests for CI in lupus while considering the cost and the administration burden on the patients and the caregivers. Several studies have looked into the association between objective CI (measured by cognitive battery) and subjective CI (self-report measure completed by the patients). The results of the studies showed that subjective CI is often associated with underlying depression and/or anxiety. Other studies showed discrepancies between subjective and objective CI. Nevertheless, subjective CI should be measured because the perceived deficits by the patients can be functionally disabling. [Patients with lupus] should be routinely assessed for depression and anxiety.
Rheumatology Advisor: What treatments are available to address cognitive dysfunction in patients with SLE?
Dr Touma: Currently, there is no specific treatment for CI in lupus. It is still to be determined whether a better control of lupus disease activity will have an influence on CI development and trajectory over time. Future studies should assess the role of psychoeducational intervention programs to improve the outcomes of patients with CI. Several studies found an association between CI and depression; thus, patients with CI should be routinely screened for depression and treated adequately. Also, several studies highlighted the role of education as a protective factor against CI development; therefore, more childhood education might be beneficial.
Rheumatology Advisor: What else should rheumatologists know about cognitive dysfunction in patients with SLE?
Dr Touma: We hope that future research will identify the best screening and diagnostic tests for CI. In addition, ongoing research on cognitive function with advanced brain magnetic resonance imaging techniques should shed a light on CI phenotypes, etiology/pathogenesis, and course over time. Measuring and quantifying CI adequately will enhance the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies.
Dr Touma's research is supported by the Arthritis Society and the Physicians' Services Incorporated Foundation.
Benedict RHB, Shucard JL, Zivadinov R, Shucard DW. Neuropsychological impairment in systemic lupus erythematosus: a comparison with multiple sclerosis. Neuropsychol Rev. 2008;18(2):149-166.
The American College of Rheumatology nomenclature and case definitions for neuropsychiatric lupus syndromes. Arthritis Rheum. 1999;42(4):599-608.
Nantes SG, Su J, Dhaliwal A, Colosimo K, Touma Z. Performance of screening tests for cognitive impairment in systemic lupus erythematosus. J Rheumatol. 2017;44(11):1583-1589.
Mackay M. Lupus brain fog: a biologic perspective on cognitive impairment, depression, and fatigue in systemic lupus erythematosus. Immunol Res. 2015;63(1-3):26-37.
Kivity S, Agmon-Levin N, Zandman-Goddard G, Chapman J, Shoenfeld Y. Neuropsychiatric lupus: a mosaic of clinical presentations. BMC Med. 2015;13(1):43.
Magro-Checa C, Schaarenburg RA, Beaart HJL, Huizinga TWJ, Steup-Beekman GM, Trouw LA. Complement levels and anti-C1q autoantibodies in patients with neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus. Lupus. 2016;25(8):878-888.


I use this macro for all the M dungeons. It's running great. Also I tested at the raid dummy, it's about 7K for 3 minutes fight. My simulationcraft shows my DPS should be 8.8K.
I have such a noob question.
I know there is a way to make the mod keys work, but I can't find the post that has the info about it. Could someone please link it or tell me how to do it?
Make sure none of the in-game controls are linked to those buttons also it going through settings then controls I think. Otherwise they should be working.
Mod Keys are, but a pain in the proverbial "cushion" LOL.
Well, that's a generalisation, and those aren't good as a principle; but it took me ten days (1/2 hour/day) to sort out my Mod keys problem!
I'd add; look at GSE prefs, WoW interface key bindings, your computer FN bindings and any other "thing" that has to do with "keys" (in my case my Razer OrbWeaver).


The Head, Bank Software Center is a member of the Group Technology Executive management team. The individual would be responsible for building and operating a software development and Innovation center, aligned with best practice standards. The individual taking up this role would be responsible for researching, planning, directing, and coordinating all activities associated with the designing, developing (or acquiring), testing and implementation of innovative, value driven solutions for the business across the enterprise.
The individual would drive and fulfil the requirements for setting up this organization; to have a software and innovation development structure that would enable the business meets its goals and objectives, making them competitive and agile in meeting the demand of their customers' demands.
The Head, Bank Software Center will be the sole responsible individual for all software development and management activities across the group. The role would also combine Innovation best practices processes with the software development activities.
Manage development teams, ensuring that work is delivered on time and within allocated budget.
Ensure sufficient processes and tools are in place to meet the requirements of the development process.
Report on the productivity of the teams.