Adena M'lynn's Voice

I’m a citizen of the United States. Born and raised in Texas, where values like independence, grit, and hospitality were baked into the soil I grew up on. I loved my home state, but it too has turned into a hate filled state. I love the land, the people, the music, the food, and the ideals we  say  we stand for—liberty, justice, equality, and opportunity. But I find myself in a strange position these days. I wish the rest of the world well—perhaps more than ever. I hope other nations thrive where we’ve lost our footing. I hope they lead the way on education, healthcare, climate action, diplomacy, and human rights, especially where the United States has either faltered or walked away entirely. And no, that doesn’t make me less patriotic. In fact, I think it makes me more so. Because wanting good for others doesn’t take anything away from my love for this country—it simply means I’m no longer blind to the damage being done under the false red banner of “greatness.”  I step ...

We've all experienced it - that uncomfortable feeling after a big meal when our stomach seems to be working overtime. Indigestion can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively. But have you ever considered how this physical process mirrors what happens in our minds? When our body doesn't properly process and let go of food, we end up with indigestion. The undigested food sits heavily in our stomach, causing discomfort, bloating, and sometimes even pain. Similarly, when our mind clings to certain thoughts - especially negative or worrying ones - we experience a form of mental indigestion: anxiety. Just as our digestive system needs to break down food and absorb nutrients before discarding what's unnecessary, our minds need to process thoughts and experiences, extract the useful lessons, and then let go of the rest. When we fail to do this, those unprocessed thoughts and emotions can build up, leading to mental distress. Anxiety often stems from an inability to let go o...

Welcome back to our three-part series on the magical benefits of music. In the first installment, we explored the numerous advantages of simply listening to music. Now, we will delve into the world of playing an instrument and the incredible rewards it can bring. Learning to play an instrument is not only a fun and engaging hobby but also a powerful tool for personal growth and development. Whether you're a child picking up a guitar for the first time or an adult dusting off an old piano, the benefits of playing music are vast and varied. One of the most significant advantages of playing an instrument is its ability to improve cognitive function. Studies have shown that playing music can enhance memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. It can also increase creativity and imagination, allowing us to think outside the box and approach challenges in new and innovative ways. In addition to its mental benefits, playing an instrument can also improve physical health. The act of pla...

Do you find yourself constantly worrying, feeling on edge, or experiencing overwhelming fear? If so, you may be struggling with anxiety. Anxiety is a common mental health issue that affects millions of people worldwide. Let’s explore the signs of anxiety and discuss some effective coping mechanisms to help you manage your symptoms. Signs of Anxiety 1. Excessive worry: Constantly worrying about everyday situations, even when there's no apparent reason to worry. 2. Restlessness: Feeling on edge, fidgety, or having trouble sitting still. 3. Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak, even after getting enough sleep. 4. Difficulty concentrating: Struggling to focus on tasks or experiencing a mind that goes blank. 5. Irritability: Feeling easily annoyed or short-tempered. 6. Sleep disturbances: Having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing unsatisfying sleep. 7. Physical symptoms: Experiencing muscle tension, headaches, stomachaches, or rapid heartbeat. Coping Mechanisms 1. Practic...