Scatty.com

The Surprising Benefits of Friendship

Posted on by scatty

Pals and buddies help you have a good time. Close friends will be there when you need support. These are the well-known benefits of friendship. But did you know that having friends can also extend your life? And friendships may even boost your immune system! Check out these surprising benefits of friendship:

Friendship May Prevent Heart Attacks

A study conducted on middle-aged men found, surprisingly,  that having a life partner didn’t lower their chances of having a heart attack – but having friends did! You could say that friends not only touch your heart with their thoughtfulness, but they also help your actual physical heart keep on ticking.

The researchers found that if you don’t have social support, that’s as bad for your heart as smoking. So reach out to a friend today. Your cardiologist will thank you!

Friendship Makes Things Seem Easier

In another study, researchers stood at the base of a steep hill on a college campus. They stopped students who were walking by and asked them to participate in the study. Many students agreed, perhaps welcoming the break in their routines.

The researchers gave the students backpacks filled with very heavy rocks. Then they asked them how steep they thought the hill was.

The students who were there by themselves thought the hill was steeper than the students who were there with friends. The students who had been friends the longest thought the climb would be the easiest.

The researchers, by the way, did not actually make the students climb the hill carrying the heavy rocks. That must have made them seem friendlier.

The moral of the story: If you have to climb a steep hill carrying a lot of rocks, bring a friend with you, and it won’t seem so bad. Or maybe you should ask yourself why you are carrying rocks up a hill. Seriously, friendship can make the hard times seem easier.

Friendship May Strengthen Your Immune System

Feeling lonely can be emotionally painful. Loneliness can also have surprising physical effects on your body. It can even have a strong negative effect on your immune system.

Cultivate your friendships and/or make new friends to keep loneliness at bay, and you may kick your immune system into a higher gear.

Friendship May Extend Your Life

Researchers found that friendship had a surprisingly important effect on people’s lifespans. People who had strong social relationships had a better chance of living longer. In fact, the effect of friendship on preventing an early death was as strong as quitting smoking and twice as strong as exercising.

That doesn’t mean that if you have good friends, you can smoke and forget about exercising. All of these are important. Consider going for a walk or a run with a friend and cover all your bases at once. Just don’t carry a backpack full of rocks.

Take Care of Your Friendships

Friendships need time and attention to thrive. Time is often in short supply in our busy lives. To get all the benefits of friendship, make it a priority. You will reap the rewards many times over.

  

 

5 Signs You’re Becoming a Better Version of Yourself

Posted on by scatty

You’re never too young or too old to become a better person. But not surprisingly, for most of us, this knowledge comes with time and experience. Whether you’re actively trying to feel better about yourself or if it seems the change is happening organically, these five signs are indicators you’re on the right track:

1. You’re Learning New Things

Whether you’re out of college, out of work, or retired, you’ve come to realize that nothing stands in the way of learning new things. Maybe you’re reading more books, watching more world news, or getting out and talking more to people in your community. Or maybe you’ve recently signed up for a continuing education class on art or gardening. Regardless, you’re not standing still. And instead of losing the knowledge you once had, you’re actively training your brain to take in new information. 

2. You’re Thinking More About Your Community

You’re less worried these days about what your town, city, or government can do for you and more concerned about what you can do, yourself, to bring about positive change. Maybe you’ve taken on a volunteer role with the town council or signed up as a foster parent. Maybe you’re voting for the first time in your life. Regardless, you’ve noticed your focus is more outward than inward these days, and you’re realizing that there’s a lot you can do to make the world a better place. 

3. You’re Focusing More on How You Feel Than How You Look

You’re spending more time trying to eat well and exercise, but for different reasons. Once, you did both to maintain an hourglass figure or washboard abs. However, these days, you’re more concerned about energy levels and quality of sleep. Maybe you’ve taken up mindfulness training or yoga to help you manage stress. Or maybe you’re eating more fruits and vegetables and less fast food — not because you have to, but because you want to. 

4. You’re Learning How to Safeguard Your Peace

Those days of road rage are behind you, and instead of exchanging unpleasantries with that impatient driver who honks when the light turns green, you’re waving and going about your business. You’ve decided you’d rather go on with your peaceful day than let others bring you down to their level, and you actively seek out opportunities to make people feel good. 

5. You’re Actively Pursuing Joy

You may still have to report for work every day, but in your off time, you’re learning how to genuinely relax. You’re spending more hours with family and friends. And you’re prioritizing your time in such a way that life has become more enjoyable. Maybe you’re revisiting old hobbies or joining new community organizations. Maybe you’re hiking with friends on the weekends or finally learning how to sail. 

Regardless of why or what you’re doing to improve yourself and how you interact with others, it’s a commendable goal. And these five signs are guideposts that let you know you’re on the path to happiness and personal peace. 

5 Most Bizarre Career Decisions Made by Sports Stars

Posted on by scatty

Fame can sometimes result in some genuinely astounding decisions, and sports stars are not immune. From switching sports mid-career or deciding to play way past their time, a sports fan can often be left wondering, “what are they thinking?”

Here are five of the worst and most astounding decisions ever.

David Beckham Heads to the States

After playing for two of the most elite soccer clubs on the planet, Manchester United and Real Madrid, he decided to go to the Los Angeles Galaxy. Sure, the $32.5 million deal was pretty sweet, but a star needs a supporting cast, and Beckham didn’t find that in a country where soccer isn’t at the level of sacred like back home.

Tonya Harding Breaks a Leg, Just Not Hers

Being a problem child isn’t a benefit to your career when you’re one of the premier figure skaters of your time. Having your husband hire someone to break the leg of your biggest competitor and America’s sweetheart, Nancy Kerrigan, went well beyond the problem child reputation.

In 1994, Harding pleaded guilty, resulting in the United States Figure Skating Association banning her for life. As for Nancy, she became even more loved.

Michael Jordan Takes His First Retirement

After the Bull’s first ever three-peat in 1990-93, Michael Jordan decided it was time to play baseball to honor his father. The GOAT of basketball ended up playing in the minor league, and the Bulls still had a good season.

Fortunately, he returned to basketball in mid-1994. He shockingly pulled off another three-peat over the 1995-98 seasons, solidifying Jordan’s and the Chicago Bull’s place in history.

Michael Vick Runs a Dog Fighting Ring

You’re considered one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL and the face of the Atlanta Falcons from 2001-06 but decide to run a dog fighting ring? Not a good move. Being found guilty in 2007 and serving two years in prison can hurt an NFL career.

Amazingly, Vick came back to play for the Eagles and found some redemption but dog fighting is still a stain that will always hang over him.

Sammy Sosa Corks His Bat

A top MLB slugger and a legend breaks his bat at the plate. Low and behold, the ump sees it has been corked to get longer hitting distance and ejects Sosa from the game. While claiming he accidentally grabbed the corked bat, many wondered how long he’d been cheating.

Sammy Sosa ended up tarring his legacy forever.

Sports Stars have made some tremendously ridiculous decisions. We could go on about Brett Farve ditching the Packers, Mike Tyson biting an ear, Barry Bonds shooting up, or the worst in history, Pete Rose gambling on his own games.

There will always be a sports decision that leaves fans scratching their heads.

Seize the Moment: Low Budget Ways to Travel the World and Have the Adventure of a Lifetime

Posted on by scatty

If you regularly read travel blogs or scan your world map, wondering if you’ll ever be able to afford to see the world in person, you’re in for a terrific surprise! You can travel to all your ideal destinations, which isn’t as difficult as you might imagine.

Traveling without a lot of money takes some planning, budgeting, and compromise, but you will savor every moment of it. 

Here are five low-budget ways to travel the world and have the adventure of a lifetime.  

1. Book Bargain Airfares 

One of the highest upfront costs for travel is airfare, especially if you are planning an overseas adventure. However, you might not want to drive across the country either, so you’ll need to think about finding the best air travel fees in either case. 

Here are some tips for finding the best bargains on airfare: 

  • Shop for your airline tickets on the weekends.
  • Avoid traveling on Sunday or Monday since those are prime days for return trips home. 
  • Buy tickets before your trip, but don’t plan too far ahead. The recommended time to buy your tickets ahead of travel is around 70 days. 
  • Pack lightly and strategically to avoid baggage fees.

2. Organize a Group Tour

Whether you and your friends want to visit Europe or find a Facebook group of people planning a group vacation, this is a great route. A group tour is cheap because travel agents often offer significant group discounts. If you take this route, you’ll need to do the administrative duties of planning the trip, then everyone can go on their separate adventures during the trip.

3. Trade Labor for Accommodation 

While this works most easily for domestic travel, you can probably work out something for overseas travel too. Work with the owner of establishments like a ranch, farm, hotel, or beach or ski resort to come up with a mutually agreeable arrangement that allows you to work for them, stay in their lodgings, and enjoy the environment. 

4. Fundraise for a Volunteer Expedition

There are many ways you can volunteer your time across the country or worldwide. Many volunteer travelers seek missions for wildlife conservation, water irrigation projects, or teaching English. If your passion is helping others, there is no shame in fundraising for your trip. Use a platform like Go Fund Me, and advertise your mission on the social media platform where you have the most engagement, sharing your enthusiasm for your mission, how you plan to help, and what their support would mean to you. 

5. House Sit or Pet Sit

People love their houses and their pets, and many will be happy to invite a trustworthy guest to tend to them. Become a member of websites like TrustedHousesitters.com, MindMyHouse.com, and HouseCarers.com to undergo a background check and other vetting processes and verify the other parties’ information. 

As you can see, enjoying low budget travel takes time and creativity. It’ll all be worth it when you arrive at your ideal destination.

5 Steps to Transforming Your Relationship With Your Body

Posted on by scatty

Struggling to love what you see in the mirror? You’re not alone. Many people struggle to have a positive relationship with their bodies. Having a poor relationship with your body can cause many issues that negatively affect your life, including poor self-care habits, struggles in relationships, and mental health issues. Here, we’ll take a look at five concrete steps you can take to begin the journey of loving yourself–and your body. 

1. Stop focusing on what your body can’t do–focus on what it can do instead.

We’ve all been there: looking in the mirror and seeing everything we wish we could change about our bodies. When you’re looking at yourself in the mirror, take a moment to stop criticizing, and start appreciating the arms that can pick up your kids, the face that can smile at your coworkers, and the legs that help you get through each day.

2. Add nutrition to your diet instead of restricting or eliminating foods. 

Stop thinking about the foods that you “can’t” or “shouldn’t” have, and instead, focus on the delicious foods you can add to your diet that make you feel great. Having pizza night? Add some extra nutrition by topping your slice with veggies, or by having a salad on the side. Looking forward to your morning latte? Get a little extra pep in your step by adding a banana, some scrambled eggs, or some low-sugar yogurt on the side. 

3. Stop hanging onto clothes that make you feel bad. 

You know those jeans you have hanging in the back of your closet? The ones that fit a decade (or two) ago? Trash ’em. There’s no need to hang onto “someday” clothes. If you have clothes that make you think negative thoughts about your body, there’s no need to hang onto them. 

4. Move your body in a way that you love–or, at least, that you don’t hate. 

It’s ok if you don’t love exercise, but that doesn’t mean that you can totally skip out on moving your body in a meaningful way. Setting a small goal (like moving for 20 minutes three days each week) can help you begin to appreciate your body for carrying you through life. Whether you prefer going outside for a walk, doing a yoga video on YouTube, or taking a dance class with a friend, moving your body can help you remember all the ways that it supports you in day to day life.

5. Speak to yourself the way you’d speak to your best friend. 

You wouldn’t put up with someone talking down to your best friend about their body–and you shouldn’t put up with anyone talking down about your body either (even if that person is yourself). When you catch yourself in a cycle of negative self-talk about your body, pause, and consider how you’d feel if you heard someone speak that way to your best friend. Take a minute to frame your thoughts in a more positive manner, and remember that you deserve to be treated with love.

The Magic of New York – 5 Unique Attractions in This Amazing City

Posted on by scatty

The View From the Edge

Move over, Empire State Building, One World Observatory, and Top of the Rock. There’s a new observation deck in town, called the Edge. Take the elevator in a Hudson Yards skyscraper up to the 100th floor (gulp), step outside, and you’ll be treated to a magical view extending all the way out to the horizon.

There’s even a section where the floor is made of clear glass, so you can look straight down, if you dare, to the street that is more than 1,100 feet below.

The Winding Paths of Central Park

When you’re back down on solid ground, don’t miss the chance to explore Central Park. The park is gorgeous in every season. Best of all, it is always surprising. When you walk along its winding paths, you never know what you will encounter around the next curve.

You might run into a roller skating party, a symphony concert, a waterfall, an a capella group, people blowing giant soap bubbles, a wedding party posing for photographs, an unexpected lake, swing dancers, or kite flyers. 

You might see someone famous. You may choose to have your portrait done. You could ride a horse, rent a bike, row a boat, or sit in a gondola and let someone else do the work. 

The Statue of Liberty

Whether or not you choose to climb up its steps (there are 215 to the top of the pedestal and another 162 to get to the crown), seeing the Statue of Living up close and in person is an experience unlike any other. 

Your ferry ticket will also take you to the nearby Ellis Island, the portal to the U.S. for more than 12 million immigrants. The old buildings now contain exhibits that recreate and explain the island’s activity from the late 1800s to the middle of the 20th century. 

Pro tip: Buy your tickets in advance online or in person at the ticket booth at the pier. Don’t buy tickets from people on the street – that’s a known scam.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (often called “the Met,” but don’t confuse it with the opera house!) houses a huge collection. It is, in fact, the largest art museum in the Western Hemisphere. 

Fashionistas won’t want to miss the special shows put on by the Costume Institute, where the clothing-as-art pieces exhibited range from something you might consider wearing to something that makes you go “wow” or “huh?” 

You might want to check out the Egyptian mummies, the medieval armor, the ancient Greek and Roman sculptures, or the exhibits dedicated to Asian, Islamic, African, European, and American art.

Walk or Bike Over the Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is as breathtaking today as it was when it opened in 1883. It’s a pleasant walk or ride, even better now that bicycles and pedestrians each have their own lanes. When you get to the Brooklyn side, consider going down to the Brooklyn Bridge Park for spectacular views of lower Manhattan right across the river.

5 Fundamentals of Stress Control

Posted on by scatty

Everyone feels stressed at different points in their lives, and when you harness the emotion correctly, it can be productive. But for the hundreds of millions of people with an unhealthy level of daily stress, learning to break free from its constraints can change their lives forever.

Number 5: Identify What is Stressing You Out

Many people assume that they know the reason behind their stress, but the truth is they’re probably wrong. If giving a big presentation makes you feel stressed, it is likely not the presentation causing you anxiety but the consequences of doing poorly. If the real reason for your stress is that you fear you will get fired, it is easier to assure yourself that even if you flub the presentation, your boss is unlikely to terminate you for just one poor performance. Once you realize your worst fears will not happen, you will feel more relaxed, and there is a good chance you’ll do better.

Number 4: Keep Yourself Busy

Endlessly thinking about what makes you stressed is a perfect way to make things worse. Instead, keep yourself busy by getting involved in an activity that you enjoy, preferably something with other people. Engaging in sports or exercise is a natural way to relieve stress by increasing the number of endorphins your body produces. Take advantage of your stress to give you the motivation to finally make those positive changes in your lifestyle that you have been putting off. 

Number 3: Create Boundaries, and Learn to Say No

A lot of stress is caused by spreading yourself too thin and trying to please everyone around you. Stop trying to be everything to everybody, and put your foot down and say no. Making such a radical change can be stressful in itself, but it is essential to understand that you are the person that matters the most. By reducing the amount of stress you feel every day, you’ll be better able to de devote the time you do spend with

Number 2: Stop Procrastinating

Are you a person who leaves jobs to the last minute to complete? When you procrastinate, you increase your levels of stress in two ways. The first is by having a task hanging over your head. Every hour closer to the deadline, your anxiety about whether you can complete the task on time will continue to build. The second way protestation can stress you out is by requiring you to rush to complete the job and worrying you won’t do it well enough.

Number 1: Experience Nature

Spending time outdoors is one of the best ways to unwind and de-stress. Researchers have found that walking in the sun for as little as ten minutes has a positive effect when treating PTSD and other forms of stress. So add plenty of outdoor activities to your schedule, like hiking and gardening. If you can’t escape to nature, why not bring the outside indoors by growing culinary herbs or flowers on your windowsill?

Unfortunately, you will never eliminate stress, but using these tips, you can start to reduce the stress level to a more manageable amount. 

 

Top 5 Nicest Sports Stars

Posted on by scatty

We know sports stars are excellent athletes, but are they decent people? While we often see celebs in the news for their bad behavior, there are plenty of nice guys (and gals) out there in the sports industry.

Read on for a roundup of five sports stars who shine as athletes—and as people.

1. Lebron James

Based on data from leading UK sports retailer Sports Direct, basketball star LeBron James tops the list of the world’s most loved sports stars in 2022—and with good reason.

Not only is the Los Angeles Lakers forward a rock star on the court, but he’s also known for his incredible work ethic, charismatic personality, humility, and citizenship.

And then there’s the fact that James has donated time and money to many community programs throughout the country, and started the LeBron James Family Foundation to raise money for charities in his hometown of Akron, Ohio. He even founded his own school that provides meals, bicycles, and college tuition to students!

2. Simone Biles

Simone Biles is more than the country’s most decorated female gymnast. She’s also a role model for young girls everywhere—not just for her athletic prowess, but also for her strength of character, honesty, kindness, winning personality, and loyalty. In fact, she’s had the same coach since she was eight years old!

In addition to being a champion for mental health, Biles also gives back through her charitable contributions to Mattress Firm Foster Kids. This is a deeply meaningful cause for her because she was placed in foster care in her own childhood.

Love dogs? Here’s one more reason to love Biles: She’s got four of them!

3. Patrick Mahomes

One of the NFL’s most popular players, the rocket-armed Kansas City Chiefs quarterback has more than earned the love of his fans.

This level of fame and fortune often goes to people’s heads. Not only has Mahomes not forgotten “the little people,” but he’s married to his high school sweetheart, professional soccer player Brittany Matthews.

Like the other athletes on this list, Mahomes is also committed to giving back. In 2019, he founded 15 and the Mahomies, a nonprofit dedicated to the health, wellness, and literacy of kids in underserved communities.

4. Alex Morgan

This talented soccer star has multiple Olympic medals and other accolades to her name. However, her inspiring personality transcends her feats as striker. In 2013, she wrote a book called “Saving the Team,” which shares a message of positivity about what teammates can do when they work together.

More recently, Morgan was at the forefront of the push to ensure equality for women—on and off the turf. She’s also among a powerful group of female soccer players-turned-philanthropists. Causes supported by Morgan have included Viva! The Vegan Charity, Boys & Girls Clubs, and the UNICEF Kid Power Team.

5. Rafael Nadal

While we won’t name any names, some tennis stars are known for their massive egos and monumental tempers. This couldn’t be further from the truth for this Spanish tennis phenom.

When Nadal hasn’t been winning an all-time record of 22 Grand Slam men’s singles titles, he’s been busy building up a reputation as one of the most humble, likable, and down-to-earth athletes around.

In fact, Nadal recently said that he’d like his legacy to be being remembered as a “good person.” Mission accomplished.

5 Things You Need to Know Before You Start Keeping Birds

Posted on by scatty

A bird can be a wonderful friend, and you want to be one back. That means doing your homework before giving them a home. If you’re thinking about getting a bird soon, you should know that they require a very different approach than dogs, cats, or fish. Here are five tips for setting up a forever home for your bird friends. 

1. Birds Have Sensitive Beaks

Scented candles, oils, air fresheners, and other similar products endanger the health of birds. This is due to their delicate respiratory systems, which expose them to toxins and pollutants in the environment. As a result, smoking is not recommended when around a bird. Also, if you smoke, wash your hands before handling a bird.

2. Cooking Smells Count Too

The delicate sense of smell of a bird can also influence your cookware selections. Nonstick cookware and Teflon should be avoided if you have a bird in the house since they generate an odorless fume that can be lethal to them. You will most likely need to purchase stainless steel or nonstick cookware, such as cast iron.

3. Birds Like to Make Noise

That might be the biggest attraction for many people, but you should be aware that it can sometimes be a bit overwhelming. Before choosing a bird, find out what noise that species makes. Birds may talk, sing, squawk, and make other noises depending on the species. Figure out what will work in your home, and then choose the bird that’s best for you.

4. Birds Live a Long Time

When you decide to adopt a bird, you are making a life-long friend. Some breeds live for 50 years or longer. Some species might outlive you. Knowing this is important because having birds can be expensive and they need plenty of care. Make sure you are prepared to commit before making a home for a bird. 

They do adapt to new environments, though. So any bird you adopt will change as your lifestyle changes. They will love the new baby, for example, or to have another friend in the house. They can move with you as you move, as well. They don’t take up much space and can live in an apartment or house. Just be sure you can provide a stable home for them for decades. 

5. Birds Can Be a Bit Messy

Birds tend to eat all day long and what doesn’t end up in their mouths ends up on the bottom of the cage or the floor around it. What does get to their mouths will also eventually end up on the bottom of the cage or the floor around it. 

They also like to chew on things. So give them plenty of things in their home to chew on so they won’t be tempted to look elsewhere.

If having a bird still sounds great, find yourself a fine feathered friend. 

 

The Magic of Newcastle upon Tyne – 5 Unique Attractions in This Amazing City

Posted on by scatty

Many travelers set their sights on London or Bristol when visiting Britain, but you might want to include Newcastle upon Tyne in your itinerary. Most commonly referred to as simply Newcastle, this city might be one of Britain’s most iconic cities. 

Famous for its people’s Geordie dialect, the city’s industrial heritage, popular nightlife, and the eponymous and internationally loved brown ale, there are even more unique attractions for you to experience.

Here are five attractions in Newcastle upon Tyne you won’t want to miss.

1. Victoria Tunnel 

Constructed in the 19th century, the Victoria Tunnel was originally built as a waggonway under Newcastle to transport coal from the Tyne River to the Town Moor between 1842 and the 1860s. During the Second World War, the Tunnel became a welcome air raid shelter to protect area citizens. 

Newcastle now welcomes guests to visit the once-forgotten waggonway where you can enjoy an immersive experience with sonic and visual effects. 

2. Grey’s Monument 

Located in the center of town at Grey and Grainger Streets, a visit to Newcastle upon Tyne wouldn’t feel right without stopping by Grey’s Monument. This iconic monument is one of Newcastle’s best-known and cherished landmarks. You can see the evidence of that by how much daily activity and sightseeing goes on while you’re there. It’s also easy to spot from nearly anywhere in the city, so it’s a great spot to set up for meeting friends and family after you’ve done some exploring on your own. 

Like the famous Earl Grey tea, the monument was constructed in 1837, in part, to eponymously honor the local politician who later became prime minister from 1830-1834. It is also important because it commemorated the Reform Act of 1832, which stamped out corruption and led to increased voting eligibility.

3. The Quayside

You can visit The Quayside on either side of the River Tyne. Both sides of the river allow you to enjoy some of the city’s best sightseeing, bike riding, and relaxed strolls before dinner and drinks at one of the many restaurants and pubs. 

4. Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd

If you’re like many people who daydream about a visit to the English countryside, you’ll want to see an authentic farm filled with sheep, goats, pigs, and Shetland ponies. You can see all those beautiful creatures and learn more about the area’s approach to local agriculture at Ouseburn Farm Charity Ltd. During your visit, you can buy some wholesome goodies like eggs and dairy products at the community farm. 

5. Jesmond Dene Park 

Tucked away in the suburbs of Newcastle upon Tyne, Jesmond Dene Park is nestled in a steep, wooded valley that is perfect for a quiet hike or stroll and a chance to see local wildlife in their natural and undisturbed environment. While visiting, you can also stop by Pet’s Corner to see sheep, rabbits, and peacocks, or plan to take a guided tour to see the local birds or an open-air theater production.

These are only a few beautiful attractions you’ll find in the quaint city of Newcastle upon Tyne.