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Sleep paralysis is when the mind is awake but the body cannot move, often between sleep and wakefulness. It’s not life-threatening but can cause terrifying hallucinations. Common causes include sleep disorders, improper sleeping positions, stress, trauma, depression, sleep deprivation, and genetics. Symptoms involve a feeling of pressure on the chest, sweating, muscle pain, and extreme fear. Remedies include staying calm, focusing on breathing, trying small movements (like toes or fingers), and making small sounds to break the paralysis. – Sleep cycle disorder. – Incorrect sleeping position. – Psychological trauma, prolonged stress.  Regular lack of sleep. – Depression. – Genetic factors. Signs and symptoms: – Feeling like something is pressing on you, difficulty breathing, sweating, fear. – Body aches and pains after waking up. – Fever, sweating a lot. – Headache, muscle pain. – Unable to breathe deeply. – Extreme fear. How to overcome sleep paralysis: – Focus on breathing evenly: Calmly regulate your breathing. – Keep your posture: Relax and reassure yourself. – Try to make a small sound: Speak or cough lightly to wake up your body. – Make small movements: Try to move your fingers and toes.

Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver. It is a common health problem that various factors, such as obesity, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and metabolic disorders, can cause. Knowing the causes, symptoms, types, and lifestyle-based approaches is the best way of preventing and managing fatty liver. Advertisement Fatty Liver: Causes, Symptoms, Types, Prevention, and Lifestyle-Based Management Source: Shutterstock Fatty liver is caused by the accumulation of fat in the liver. It is a condition that can occur for many reasons, such as obesity, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and metabolic disorders. There can also be a hereditary component to your risk of developing this condition. Fatty liver disease is common in people with diabetes or those who drink alcohol excessively. Understanding the causes is the first step to preventing fatty liver disease from occurring altogether. Read More: 8 Signs of Poor Liver Health & the Best Supplements to Help Support It  Causes of Fatty Liver Source: Shutterstock As already mentioned, there are a number of contributing factors to fatty liver disease. Most of these are lifestyle choices and are, therefore, reasonably preventable. This means that those with a family history of the condition can change their odds if they do the right things. The most common causes of fatty liver are (1): Unhealthy Diet: Consuming a diet rich in processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats can increase the risk of developing fatty liver. Obesity: Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for developing fatty liver, as it increases fat accumulation in the liver. Insulin Resistance: Insulin resistance, commonly associated with type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome, can contribute to the development of fatty liver. Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Heavy and prolonged alcohol consumption can cause alcoholic fatty liver disease. This is because excess alcohol slows the liver’s ability to process fats and can lead to fatty deposits and inflammation inside the organ. Other types of fatty liver can be caused by other factors Source: Shutterstock For example, some women develop one type of fatty liver while pregnant. This is called acute fatty liver of pregnancy. In most cases, the liver returns to normal after the mother gives birth. (2) Symptoms of Fatty Liver Source: Shutterstock Asymptomatic fatty liver is often discovered during a routine health check-up. In fact, most people don’t actually have any symptoms, so it can be quite advanced once it is finally detected. However, some common symptoms of fatty liver disease include (3): Fatigue Abdominal pain or discomfort A general feeling of being unwell Weakness Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) There are two main types of fatty liver disease: Source: Shutterstock Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD): AFLD is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, and it is the most common type of fatty liver disease. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): NAFLD is more common than AFLD and is associated with metabolic disorders, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Prevention and Lifestyle-Based Management of Fatty Liver Source: Shutterstock Prevention and lifestyle-based management of fatty liver are essential due to its increasing prevalence linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome. By adopting healthy habits like balanced diet, exercise, weight management, and limiting alcohol intake, individuals can reduce the risk and progression of fatty liver, improving overall health and lessening the strain on healthcare systems. Diet Source: Shutterstock A healthy diet is one of the most critical factors in preventing and managing fatty liver. Here are some dietary recommendations: Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid or limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated fats. Choose healthy fats, such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocado, and fish. Read More: A Single Bite of This Thai Dish Can Give You Liver Cancer Exercise Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of developing fatty liver and improve liver function in people with fatty liver disease. Here are some exercise recommendations: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week. Engage in activities you enjoy, such as walking, running, dancing, or swimming. Include both cardio and strength training exercises in your routine. Weight Management Maintaining a healthy weight is critical in preventing and managing fatty liver disease. Here are some weight management recommendations: Aim for a healthy weight based on your body mass index (BMI). Gradual weight loss is recommended if overweight or obese. Consult with a healthcare provider or a registered dietitian for personalized advice. Limit Alcohol Intake Reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption is recommended for people who suffer from the disease, especially for those with AFLD. Manage Medical Conditions Source: Shutterstock Managing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol can help prevent further liver damage. Supplements and Home Remedies Although a healthy diet is the best way to get the nutrients you need, some supplements and home remedies may have potential benefits for fatty liver disease. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements or home remedies. Here are some recommendations: Milk thistle is an herbal supplement that may improve liver function. (4) Omega-3 fatty acid supplements may help improve liver health. (5) Vitamin E are one of the most promising fatty liver-aiding supplements. (6) Drinking green tea may have potential benefits for fatty liver disease. (7) The Bottom Line Source: Shutterstock Fatty liver disease is a common health problem that can be prevented and managed through lifestyle changes. By adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting or avoiding alcohol consumption, and managing underlying medical conditions, individuals can significantly reduce the risk and progression of fatty liver disease. In addition, considering certain supplements and home remedies may have potential benefits. A holistic approach to preventing and managing fatty liver disease is recommended and can improve both liver and overall body health. Read More: 9 of The Best Foods and Drinks for Liver Health Sources “What to Know … Read more

My post-baby sex life with my husband had just gotten back on track when number two came along. We were blindsided by how hard the transition from one to two kids was. Add on a year of nursing and general fatigue with sharing my body with other humans, and things had mostly ground to a halt in the bedroom. Even once everyone in the house was finally sleeping through the night and I had some energy again, having sex was the last way I wanted to spend it. Don’t get me wrong, I like sex and I’m attracted to my husband. And after the fact, I was always glad we’d done it. But leading up to it, it always felt like one more demand on my time and attention; something to check off my to-do list. So, when we did have sex it was always satisfying but not exactly, well, sexy. Then came the ill-fated birthday present. My husband and I are not big gift givers. So when I saw how excited he looked as I opened my gift I assumed it must be something amazing. It was lingerie. Not the tasteful, expensive kind worn by the cast of And Just Like That, but the cheap, tacky kind you’d see at a sad strip joint just off the interstate. My husband confessed to wanting to try some new things in the bedroom. Including dressing up and role-playing. My first reaction was a “you’ve got to be freaking kidding me” level of resentment. Now, on top of everything else I did all day at work and at home, I was also supposed to summon the energy to squeeze myself into tiny undergarments and act like a Playboy bunny? I managed some feigned enthusiasm and immediately shoved the box in the back of my closet. The more I thought about it, though, the more selfish my reaction seemed. After all, he’d had enough courage to tell me his sexual fantasies. Maybe it wouldn’t kill me to indulge them once or twice, as a show of good faith in our marriage. And so, I added it to my to-do list. But I was not prepared for what happened once I checked it off the list.   I feel less inhibited I’ve always felt a little tentative in the bedroom, even with trusted long-term partners. The judgmental voice that follows me around the rest of the day, questioning my competence as a mom/friend/employee/fill-in-the-blank, also joins me in the bedroom. “Not your best angle,” it reminds me. “Um, you’re not exactly Jennifer Lopez in Hustlers,” it says. “Just stay in your lane.” Now, though, as part of my husband’s fantasies I was required to step outside my box. And these were his fantasies, not mine, so why not go all in? I was just doing what he wanted, after all. I was playing a role, and no one could judge me for that. Giving myself this permission resulted in a kind of freedom I’d never felt—and, unsurprisingly, some of the best sex I’d ever had. I feel more attractive As the mother of two active young boys, I rarely have time to put on makeup in the morning. Or do anything more with my hair than pull it into a ponytail. And while I’ve always had a pretty positive body image, I don’t exactly consider myself a sexpot. I’m saggy in all the places you’d expect after having two kids. And my main workout these days is corralling my kids into bed. But after a few weeks of participating in my husband’s fantasies, I felt sexier. With the new role I was playing in our sex life, I saw myself differently—and my husband did, too. The desire he expressed for me in the bedroom spilled over into daily life in the way he looked at me and touched me. The shift it caused in how I saw myself was fun and energizing.   I feel more connected to my husband Sex itself is an act of vulnerability, and good sex even more so. There’s a high level of open communication that has to happen for both partners to come away sated. Spending more time with my husband in that state of vulnerability with honest communication strengthened our day-to-day bond. Whereas our relationship had sometimes felt like a logistics puzzle, or an endless negotiation about domestic responsibilities, now we feel connected in a way that’s deeper than our shared calendar.   I feel more confident asking for what I want Since pushing my sexual inhibition mostly to the side, I’ve been more vocal about what I want in our sex life. We’ve started an open conversation about our needs and desires that will hopefully last a lifetime. This new confidence also extends beyond the bedroom. For me, talking about what I want from intimacy and sex is one of the hardest things. Now that I’m doing it regularly, asking for what I want in other areas of my life, such as professionally or with friends and family, is much easier. Today, the box of lingerie that I’d once shoved to the back of the closet has its own special place in one of my drawers. And we’ve added to it based on our ongoing conversation about our sex life. So while this year I’m hoping for something different for my birthday—spa day, anyone?—that box will forever remain one of the best gifts I’ve ever received.

These buttons conceal a wide range of features that many users might not be aware of. Let’s delve into the untapped potential of these buttons and explore how they can simplify various tasks. We’re all familiar with the iPhone and how it has evolved over the years. Despite having only a few physical buttons, the iPhone’s volume controls offer much more than just sound adjustment. 1. Capturing Photos and Videos Your iPhone’s volume buttons can double as a shutter release for taking photos in modes like portrait, traditional, and panorama. They also function as a start/stop button for recording videos. For burst shots on newer models, simply hold down the volume up button2. Scanning Documents Quickly In apps such as Files, Mail, Notes, and Reminders, the volume buttons can act as a shortcut to scan documents, making the process faster and more efficient without having to rely on on-screen buttons.3. Managing Alarms with Ease Whether you need to snooze or turn off an alarm, the volume buttons offer a convenient alternative to on-screen controls, making your mornings just a bit easier.

Spiritual individuals often argue that dreams hold valuable lessons, suggesting that guides within dreams offer insights into life. On the other hand, many scientists believe that dreams are merely the brain’s way of processing information. They may represent a replay of your day, a chance to confront your fears, or an opportunity to clear your mind during stressful times. Occasionally, you might encounter unexpected visits from someone you once knew. Perhaps you’ve lost touch with that person, or maybe they’ve passed away. But what, if anything, does this type of dream signify? Dreaming of a deceased loved one can evoke a wide range of emotions. You might experience a sense of peace and love, or alternatively, sadness—whether due to past hurts or because you miss them. Dreaming of someone who has recently passed away is a common occurrence worldwide. Such dreams are often seen as part of the grieving process. However, as noted by Healthline, if the person in your dream passed away a long time ago, it may reflect a significant transition in your own life. In dreams, death doesn’t always represent literal death; it can symbolize the brain’s way of confronting a new phase in your life. Have you recently moved? Been offered a new job? Or perhaps you’ve just graduated and are considering your future options. Experts advise that when interpreting a dream, it’s important not to get too caught up in minor details. Instead, focus on how the dream made you feel. The emotions you experience during the dream will provide more insight than anything you might see or think. Additionally, dreams are often symbolic of something deeper. Rubin Naiman, who holds a Ph.D. in psychology and has spent many years studying sleep patterns and habits, explains the process of understanding a dream’s meaning: “Dream interpretation is about decoding the dream. It enlightens us and expands our awareness psychologically, [offering an] expansion of consciousness.” Dreaming of a deceased loved one often signifies changes in your life and the emotions—whether anxiety or peace—associated with the decisions you’ve made regarding these changes. Naiman also points out that, “A lot of contemporary neuroscientists believe during REM sleep, the brain is involved in maintenance tasks, and it accidentally ‘kicks up dust,’ visually. At that end, dreaming is considered totally meaningless. On the other hand,” he adds, “The other end is that dreaming is more substantial than waking. And we see this in ‘dream cultures,’ such as the indigenous people of Australia, who believe dreaming is intrinsic to our spiritual existence.” Experts generally classify these types of dreams into four main reasons: 1. Grieving If someone has recently passed away, your brain might be working through the pain of the loss. 2. Projection of Emotions When a loved one appears angry or disappointed in your dream, it often reflects your own feelings of guilt or unresolved issues. 3. Self-Sabotage Dream analyst Lauri Loewenberg explains that dreams of deceased loved ones may reveal self-destructive behaviors, mirroring those the loved one may have exhibited, such as substance abuse or reckless spending. 4. Visitation Some believe that deceased loved ones can visit us in dreams, offering wisdom, warnings, or highlighting necessary changes in our lives. If the loved one appears happy and healthy, and you feel comforted and at peace upon waking, this might have been a visitation. While this may seem far-fetched to some, professionals like Loewenberg suggest that it could be a genuine possibility. For years, scientists have studied sleep and dreams to better understand the mind. However, for those who are spiritually inclined, dreams offer something much deeper and more meaningful. They believe that dreams provide insight into the soul, a closer connection to the deceased, and an opportunity to receive wisdom from ancestors or loved ones we’ve cherished in this life.

Hand and joint pain can stem from numerous causes, which is why many people immediately turn to over-the-counter medications for relief. While these drugs can be effective in easing discomfort, relying on them regularly can have long-term side effects on the body. Discomfort in the knees, hands, and joints is quite common, whether it’s from overexertion, prolonged walking, or even stress. In response, we often look for ways to support and strengthen these areas. Fortunately, there are natural alternatives that can help alleviate pain without harmful side effects. Turmeric, a spice native to India, is valued globally for its exceptional medicinal benefits. It’s been a staple in traditional healing practices for centuries, renowned for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Today, we’ll show you a simple way to harness turmeric’s healing potential at home. Natural Turmeric Remedy for Joint and Hand Pain Ingredients: 2 tablespoons of turmeric powder 1 tablespoon of coconut oil 1 teaspoon of honey 5 tablespoons of purified water Preparation: Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until the blend becomes smooth and consistent. Application: Gently apply the mixture to the affected area, massaging in circular motions. Allow it to sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with lukewarm water. This treatment leverages turmeric’s ability to reduce inflammation and stimulate natural cortisone production from the adrenal glands, helping to decrease swelling and relieve pain effectively. Scientific studies have identified curcumin and quercetin, two powerful compounds found in turmeric, as key agents in reducing inflammation and alleviating joint discomfort. Additionally, turmeric’s antioxidant properties help boost the immune system and aid in detoxification, preventing harmful toxin buildup that can worsen joint issues. However, for the best results, it’s important to pair this natural treatment with a healthy lifestyle. This includes a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and staying well-hydrated to support overall joint health. More Ways Turmeric Can Improve Your Health Turmeric is an incredibly versatile ingredient to keep on hand — not only for joint health but for a wide range of other benefits. Here are seven additional ways it can enhance your wellness: 1. Promotes Faster Healing of Wounds: Apply turmeric directly to cuts, scratches, or minor injuries. It speeds up the healing process and minimizes the risk of scarring. 2. Improves Skin Appearance: Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric with 1 teaspoon of milk and a few drops of coconut oil to create a nourishing face mask. It helps reduce acne, wrinkles, and blemishes, leaving your skin smooth and radiant.   3. Helps Fight Cancer Cells:     Regular consumption of turmeric has been linked to the destruction of cancer cells, making it a valuable addition to a preventative health routine. 4. Soothes Psoriasis: Applying turmeric powder directly to psoriasis-affected areas can provide relief from inflammation and discomfort. 5. Treats Eczema Naturally: Combine turmeric with coconut oil to create a soothing ointment for eczema-prone skin. It helps reduce redness and irritation. 6. Freshens Breath and Supports Throat Health: Gargling with warm water mixed with a small amount of turmeric can help eliminate bad breath and promote a healthy throat. 7. Combats Signs of Aging: Combine turmeric with milk and apply it to your skin to reduce wrinkles, spots, and acne. This natural treatment nourishes the skin, leaving it youthful and glowing. Conclusion There’s no doubt about it — turmeric is a powerful gift from nature with a wide range of health benefits. Keeping it in your kitchen can be a simple yet effective way to enhance your overall well-being. Note: The recommendations shared here are for educational purposes only and should never replace advice from a qualified medical professional. If you have any concerns about your health, always consult your doctor before trying new treatments.

What causes bad breath? Bad breath, or halitosis, can be resulted by a variety of factors, but one of the most popular is the presence of bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria deliver sulfur compounds that create an unpleasant odor. Although we all have bacteria in our mouths, certain types thrive because of poor hygiene or oral health problems. Symptoms to look after White tongue: If you spot a white or yellowish coating on the surface of your tongue, it could be a signal that certain bacteria are developing. Swollen or bleeding gums: Swollen gums can be a signal of gingivitis, a bacterial infection that, in addition to lead to bad breath, causing more serious problems if left untreated. Canker sores: Mouth ulcers can also be a signal of an imbalance in the bacterial flora. What bacteria are behind bad breath? There are many bacteria that exist in our mouths, but some are directly linked to halitosis. Among them: Porphyromonas gingivalis: This bacteria is a key reason of gum disease, which often supports bad breath. Treponema denticola: Linked to periodontitis, this bacteria can significantly develop unpleasant odors when proper dental hygiene is not maintained. Fusobacterium nucleatum: Commonly exist in dental plaque and related with gum disease and persistent bad breath. How to get rid of bad breath and fight off these bacteria? Fortunately, there are many effective solutions to remove these bacteria and get rid of bad breath: Tongue brushing: Brushing your teeth isn’t enough. Using a tongue cleaner gets rid of the bacterial layer that forms on your tongue, reducing the cause of bad breath. Flossing: Bacteria often hide between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Daily flossing can get rid of food debris and odor-causing bacteria. Antibacterial mouthwashes: Select mouthwashes designed to combat the bacteria that cause halitosis, such as those consisting of chlorhexidine or crucial oils. Regular dental visits: Regular dental examinations are key to solving problems such as gingivitis or periodontitis and treating them before they become worse. Additional tips Hydration: A dry mouth is a perfect environment for the bacteria that cause bad breath to multiply. Healthy Foods: Consuming crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots is not only good for your overall health, but also helps clean your teeth and tongue naturally. Conclusion If you’ve spotted signs in your mouth such as a white tongue, swollen gums, or the appearance of canker sores, you could be dealing with a bacterial problem that’s causing bad breath. Don’t let bad breath stop you; let’s try these tips today and keep a healthy, fresh mouth!

In our fast-paced, constantly connected world, stress is practically a badge of honor. But beneath the surface of busy schedules and digital overload lies a biological response that can quietly wreak havoc on our bodies: elevated cortisol levels. Cortisol, known as the “stress hormone,” is crucial for managing stress in small doses. But when it remains high for too long, it can start to wear us down—mentally, physically, and emotionally. If you often feel overwhelmed, tired, or not quite yourself, your body might be trying to signal something important. In this guide, we’ll break down: The difference between everyday stress and chronic overload We’ll also offer effective, realistic tips to bring balance back into your life. 🔍 What is Cortisol? Cortisol is a steroid hormone produced by your adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys. It plays a vital role in your body’s fight-or-flight response, helping regulate blood sugar, metabolism, blood pressure, and inflammation. In the short term, cortisol keeps us sharp, alert, and ready to tackle threats. But when stress is constant, cortisol production doesn’t switch off. This is when problems arise. 🧠 Acute Stress vs. Chronic Stress Acute stress is your body’s quick reaction to a new challenge—like giving a presentation or dodging a car in traffic. It spikes your cortisol, but only temporarily. Chronic stress, however, is the kind that doesn’t let up. It builds slowly over time from constant pressures like debt, job burnout, toxic relationships, or even lack of sleep. Chronic stress leads to consistently elevated cortisol levels, which quietly damage your health over time. 🚨 8 Warning Signs of High Cortisol Even if you don’t feel stressed, your body might be saying otherwise. These are some of the most common—and often overlooked—signs of high cortisol levels: 1. Stubborn Weight Gain, Especially Around the Belly Cortisol encourages fat storage—particularly in the abdomen. It also breaks down muscle, which lowers metabolism. If you’re eating healthy and exercising but not seeing results, your stress hormones might be working against you. 2. Sleep Problems and Insomnia Cortisol is supposed to decrease at night to help you wind down. If it stays high, it interferes with your natural sleep-wake cycle. Trouble falling or staying asleep may be a red flag. 3. Frequent Illness and Slow Healing High cortisol suppresses your immune system. If you’re constantly catching colds or your wounds take forever to heal, it’s worth considering your stress load. 4. Increased Anxiety or Depression Cortisol affects neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine—key chemicals in mood regulation. Prolonged imbalance can lead to anxiety, irritability, or even depression. 5. Digestive Issues Stress slows digestion and reduces nutrient absorption. You might experience bloating, cramps, or IBS-like symptoms. If your gut is off, your stress might be the reason. 6. Low Sex Drive Chronic cortisol dampens sex hormones, reducing libido and fertility. It can also interfere with intimacy, creating a feedback loop of stress and disconnection in relationships. 7. Memory Fog and Poor Concentration Struggling to stay focused? Forgetting names, appointments, or misplacing things often? High cortisol can shrink the hippocampus, a brain area crucial for memory and learning. 8. Muscle Weakness and Fatigue Cortisol breaks down muscle tissue for energy. Over time, this can lead to weaker muscles, persistent tiredness, and less strength—even if you’re active. 🧘‍♀️ How to Lower Cortisol Naturally You can’t eliminate stress—but you can control how your body responds to it. Here are some proven strategies to support your well-being and lower cortisol: ✅ Daily Practices for Balance: Practice mindfulness: Meditation, breathing exercises, and journaling reduce stress and lower cortisol naturally. Move your body: Moderate, enjoyable exercise—like walking, swimming, or yoga—helps regulate hormones and boost mood. Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality rest each night. Your hormones depend on it. Eat smart: Choose nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory foods. Limit sugar, caffeine, and processed snacks. Stay connected: Make time for friends and loved ones. Social support helps buffer stress. Time management: Create routines and break tasks into manageable chunks to avoid overwhelm. Relaxation rituals: Take regular breaks. Try baths, music, hobbies, or nature walks. Get professional help: If stress or symptoms persist, talk to a doctor or therapist. Support is strength—not weakness. 🌿 The Takeaway High cortisol might be silently draining your energy, mood, and health—but it doesn’t have to. By learning to recognize the signs and making simple, consistent changes, you can rebalance your body and reclaim your peace of mind. ✨ Remember: Listening to your body is the first step in healing. Prioritize your well-being. Stress may be a part of life—but it doesn’t have to control it. And 8 subtle—but powerful—signs your cortisol levels might be too high

As the world grieves, the Pope’s closest associates have shared the truth about his last hours, including his heartfelt farewell gesture and the words he decided to leave behind. Pope Francis thanked the guy who had supported him during his sickness with a simple hand gesture in his dying moments. It was a brief but impactful farewell. Pope Francis died on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 at his residence in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta. pic.twitter.com/jUIkbplVi2 — Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025 Moments earlier, he had whispered nine poignant words, his last known sentence — “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.” Those words were addressed to Massimiliano Strappetti, the nurse who had become a central figure in the Pope’s final years. The man who once recommended colon surgery to save the Pope’s life was Strappetti, who was more than just a caregiver. In 2022, he was named Pope Francis’ personal healthcare assistant for his unwavering commitment. Strappetti was by the Pope’s side during his last hospital stay in Gemelli Hospital in Rome and afterwards at Casa Santa Marta, where he kept constant watch. Strappetti accompanied Pope Francis on Easter Sunday during the Urbi et Orbi blessing, which would be his final public appearance. The previous day, they had gone over the route he would take to reach St. Peter’s Basilica’s Central Loggia. Source: Wikipedia Pope Francis had intended to ride in the popemobile following the blessing in order to surprise the 50,000 worshippers assembled in the square. But he paused and said, “Do you think I can manage it?” to get advice from his assistant. He did. On Sunday, he went back to the square, embracing the people there and giving the kids extra attention. It was the last voyage he would take in a popemobile and the first after he was released from the hospital. Tired yet content, he turned to Strappetti and said, “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.” In that moment, he revealed the depth of his desire to be close to the people, a principle that had defined his papacy from the start. Ezoic He went to bed and had a peaceful meal later that day. He started exhibiting symptoms of an unexpected illness about 5:30 a.m. the following day. The medical staff acted right away, but Pope Francis fell into a coma around an hour later. He waved his hand to Strappetti as a last gesture before passing out when he was laying in bed on the second level of Casa Santa Marta. Ezoic He did not suffer, according to those who were there. Given the Pope’s reticent attitude on his health, the death was unexpected and covert. When Pope Francis was elected on March 13, 2013, he made a commitment to walk “together” with God’s people. With humility, warmth, and grace, he fulfilled that vow in his final hours. Ezoic A stroke, followed by a coma and permanent cardiocirculatory collapse, was determined to be the cause of death. Vatican City State’s Directorate of Health and Hygiene, led by Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, officially certified the facility. The Holy See Press Office published a report outlining the Pope’s medical history, which included multiple bronchiectases, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and acute respiratory failure from multimicrobial bilateral pneumonia. By using electrocardiographic thanatography, his death was verified. Ezoic In a different, subtly poignant moment, Vice President JD Vance, who was among the last world leaders to meet with Pope Francis, said three last words to the Pope during his recent visit to the Vatican. These remarks now have more significance given the Pope’s passing. Vance, a convert to Catholicism, met Pope Francis on Easter Sunday, April 20, 2025, at the Domus Santa Marta in Vatican City. Video footage published by the Vatican showed the Pope sitting in a wheelchair, looking weak and reportedly hardly able to be heard. As Vance entered the room, he bent down and gently grasped the pontiff’s hand. “Hello,” he said. “So good to see you.” The Pope did not respond audibly. A priest acting as a translator spoke in his stead. Still, Vance, visibly moved by the moment, offered words of comfort. “I know you’ve not been feeling great, but it’s good to see you in better health,” he said. Vance stood to the Pope’s right in the photo after a short conversation, and the vice president’s final parting words were, “God bless you.” These were the final three words Vance spoke to Pope Francis; they were respectful remarks made just before the Pope’s death. Despite its briefness, the meeting was quite important. On issues like the Trump administration’s immigration policies and deportation strategies, Vance and Pope Francis had openly clashed. Despite their divergent ideologies, the Easter Sunday assembly was courteous and friendly. The Vatican said the guys had met to welcome each other on Easter. Vance’s convoy was only on Vatican property for seventeen minutes. His workplace acknowledged the encounter but provided no further details. The day before their meeting, on Saturday, Vance met with top Vatican officials to talk about issues including immigration and international war, which dominated many of Pope Francis’ public remarks. The Pope presented presents for the vice president’s family during the meeting. A priest gave Vance a plate of rosaries and a Vatican tie, along with chocolate eggs, through his interpreter. “These are for your children,” the priest said. Vance accepted the tie and replied, “Thank you. So beautiful.” The vice president and his family went to the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls for Easter liturgy following the conference. They also paid a visit to the apostle Paul’s tomb. Following the Pope’s passing, Vance posted a tribute on X, expressing his sorrow and reflecting on the significance of their final meeting. “I just learned of the passing of Pope Francis. My heart goes out to the millions of Christians all over the world who loved him,” he wrote.The post continued, “I was happy to see him yesterday, though he was … Read more

May be an image of text that says ‘My nana taught me this trick to get rid of a sore throat in 2 mins with almost 0 effort. Here’s how it works’ We all know the feeling—a scratchy, painful sore throat that makes swallowing feel like an ordeal. The last thing anyone wants is to spend days sipping on hot tea, popping lozenges, and waiting for relief. Fortunately, my nana taught me a quick, simple trick that can soothe a sore throat in just two minutes with almost no effort. I’ve tried it countless times, and it works like a charm. Here’s how it works and why it’s so effective. The Magic Trick: Honey and Lemon The trick involves a classic combination: honey and lemon. These two natural ingredients have been used for centuries to relieve throat discomfort. But it’s not just any preparation of honey and lemon; the magic is in the method my nana taught me. What You Need: 1 tablespoon of honey (preferably raw and organic) 1/2 fresh lemon or 1 tablespoon of lemon juice How to Do It: Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by squeezing half a lemon into a small bowl or directly onto a spoon. If you’re using bottled lemon juice, simply pour about a tablespoon. Mix with Honey: Take a tablespoon of honey and mix it with the lemon juice until they form a thick, smooth mixture. You want a consistency that allows you to slowly coat your throat when you swallow it. Slowly Swallow: Here’s the key part—take the honey and lemon mixture and slowly let it slide down your throat. The goal is to allow the mixture to coat your throat thoroughly. Why It Works This trick works quickly due to the unique properties of honey and lemon, which together create a powerful soothing and healing effect on the throat. 1. Honey: The Natural Soother and Healer Honey is known for its antibacterial properties. Raw honey contains natural enzymes and beneficial compounds like hydrogen peroxide, which can help to fight bacteria that may be causing your sore throat. Honey also has a thick consistency, which helps it coat and soothe the irritated mucous membranes in your throat, providing almost immediate relief. Moreover, honey is a humectant, which means it retains moisture. This helps in keeping the throat moist and reduces dryness that can exacerbate a sore throat. 2. Lemon: The Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse Lemon is rich in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that boosts the immune system. It also has antibacterial properties and is known for its astringent qualities, which can help reduce the swelling in the throat and create an environment that’s less hospitable to bacteria and viruses. The acidity of lemon juice also helps break down mucus, which can often be the cause of throat irritation. When combined, honey and lemon not only provide a soothing coating to the throat but also actively work to combat the root causes of irritation and discomfort. How to Maximize the Benefits While this trick provides quick relief, there are a few additional tips to maximize its effectiveness: Use Raw Honey: The less processed the honey, the more nutrients and beneficial properties it retains. Raw, organic honey is the best choice. Warm the Mixture Slightly: Warming the honey and lemon mixture (just slightly, not hot) can enhance its soothing properties. Warmth naturally soothes throat pain and helps in breaking down mucus more effectively. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day is essential. Staying hydrated keeps your throat moist and helps flush out any irritants or pathogens. Repeat as Needed: You can repeat this trick up to three times a day. It’s natural, safe, and effective, making it a perfect remedy to use as needed. Why My Nana’s Trick is Better Than Over-the-Counter Remedies While over-the-counter (OTC) medications can provide relief, they often come with side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, or an upset stomach. My nana’s remedy, however, is all-natural and free of side effects. It uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making it a cost-effective solution as well. Moreover, many OTC throat lozenges and sprays only mask the pain temporarily without addressing the underlying cause. Honey and lemon, on the other hand, both soothe and heal, offering longer-lasting relief and contributing to the overall recovery process Next time you feel that dreaded tickle in your throat, remember my nana’s simple trick with honey and lemon. With just two ingredients and two minutes of your time, you can experience almost immediate relief from throat discomfort. It’s a natural, easy, and effective remedy that’s stood the test of time. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself reaching for