How Watching TV Can Fuel Anxiety

Jason Lifestyle, Technology, Well-being

Tuning into the news used to be a daily ritual — a way to stay informed, feel connected, and understand what was happening in the world. But lately, for many people, that same ritual has started to feel overwhelming. Instead of clarity, we get noise. Instead of understanding, we feel helpless. And instead of feeling informed, we often just feel anxious.

It’s not your imagination. Watching TV news — especially in an era of constant breaking updates, dramatic visuals, and emotionally charged commentary — can trigger real stress responses. Our brains are wired to respond to threats, and when we’re bombarded with alarming headlines, disturbing images, and urgent tones, our nervous systems can’t always tell the difference between a story on screen and a real-life emergency. The result? Increased heart rate, shallow breathing, tension, and a sense of unease that lingers long after the segment ends.

What makes it worse is how nonstop it is. News channels repeat the same stories hour after hour, often with little new information but lots of speculation. And the stories that get the most airtime are usually the most extreme: disasters, violence, conflict, tragedy. Over time, this can create what’s known as “mean world syndrome” — the feeling that the world is far more dangerous or chaotic than it really is.

Even when we’re not consciously paying close attention, the background noise of bad news can shape our mindset. It can heighten our fears, increase our sense of powerlessness, and make it harder to focus on everyday life. For people already dealing with anxiety, depression, or trauma, the effect can be even stronger.

This isn’t to say we should bury our heads in the sand. Being informed is important. But there’s a difference between staying aware and being emotionally hijacked by a news cycle that never turns off. You’re allowed to set boundaries with the news. You’re allowed to choose when and how you engage with information. You’re allowed to turn off the TV when it starts making your chest feel tight or your thoughts race. That doesn’t make you uninformed — it makes you human.

Instead of letting the news control your emotions, you can choose to take in information in a way that feels sustainable. Read instead of watch. Set a time limit. Choose sources that are factual, not sensational. And balance it out with stories of progress, hope, and people doing good in the world — because those exist, too, even if they don’t always make the headlines.

Your peace of mind matters. The world will keep spinning if you take a break. And sometimes, stepping back is exactly what helps you move forward with more clarity, more calm, and a stronger sense of what really matters.

How to Stop Worrying

Jason Lifestyle, Well-being

Worry has a way of sneaking in — quietly, at first. A passing thought. A small “what if.” But soon, that thought turns into a loop, playing on repeat in your mind, crowding out peace and leaving you feeling tense, anxious, and stuck. It’s exhausting. And yet, most of us have a hard time turning it off.

The truth is, worrying feels productive. We tell ourselves we’re “thinking things through” or “being prepared,” but often, worry is just fear dressed up as planning. It rarely solves the problem — it just steals our time and energy. While it’s unrealistic to think we can eliminate worry entirely, we can change how we respond to it.

One of the first things that helps is naming what you’re worried about. Often, the biggest worries are vague: “I’m worried something bad will happen” or “I just feel off.” When you sit down and write out what’s really on your mind, it shrinks from something foggy and overwhelming to something you can face. Putting pen to paper — or fingers to keyboard — gives shape to the worry, and sometimes, you realize it’s not as urgent or likely as it felt in your head.

It also helps to separate what’s in your control from what’s not. If you can take a small action — even just one — toward a solution, do it. If not, it’s time to practice letting it go. Not forever, not perfectly. Just for now.

Worry lives in the future. So one of the best antidotes is grounding yourself in the present. This might mean taking five deep breaths, noticing the colors in the room around you, or going for a walk to clear your head. Even doing something as simple as washing the dishes or stretching can reset your nervous system and shift you out of that anxious loop.

It’s also okay to give yourself permission to worry — just not all day. Try scheduling a “worry time” each day — maybe 10 or 15 minutes where you let yourself spiral a bit, vent, journal, or talk it out. When worries pop up outside that window, gently tell yourself: “I’ll think about this later.” More often than not, the worry won’t feel as urgent by then.

Perhaps the most important piece of all is self-compassion. So often, we get frustrated with ourselves for worrying. We label it as weakness or failure. But you’re not weak — you’re human. Worry is a sign that you care, that you want to feel safe, that you’re trying to protect yourself. You don’t need to fight that. You just need to soften the way you hold it.

You won’t banish worry forever. But you can learn to carry it differently — with more awareness, more calm, and more kindness toward yourself. Bit by bit, it starts to loosen its grip. And in that space, something gentler can take its place: trust, presence, and a little more peace.

 

How to Have a Low-Calorie Birthday Party

Jason Culture, Food, Lifestyle

Rethink the Cake — But Keep It Fun

You can still have a cake moment!

Here are some creative (and tasty) alternatives:

  • Mini cupcakes or cake pops: Built-in portion control
  • Greek yogurt fruit parfait “cake” layered in a trifle dish
  • Frozen yogurt bark with berries and dark chocolate
  • Angel food cake with whipped topping and strawberries (low-cal and feels fancy)
  • Watermelon “cake”: Stack watermelon rounds and decorate with fruit and light whipped cream

Serve Finger Foods & Light Bites

Skip heavy mains and go for small, flavorful options that feel indulgent but stay light. Ideas:

  • Veggie skewers (maybe grilled) with tzatziki or hummus
  • Turkey meatballs with light dipping sauces
  • Shrimp cocktail
  • Mini lettuce wraps
  • Air-popped popcorn with seasoning bars (chili lime, garlic herb, etc.)
  • Cucumber rounds topped with tuna, avocado, or low-fat cheese

Offer “Skinny” Drinks & Infused Water

Sugary drinks sneak in tons of calories. Instead:

  • Serve sparkling water with citrus, mint, or berries
  • Create a DIY spritzer bar: soda water + 100% juice or flavored water
  • Make low-cal mocktails or cocktails with light mixers (like vodka + soda + splash of cranberry)
  • Pro tip: Pre-fill some pretty pitchers with infused waters — it feels fancy and healthy.

Create a Chill, Balanced Atmosphere

People remember the experience more than the food. So:

  • Use fun decor, candles, balloons — set the tone!
  • Offer small plates so people serve themselves lighter portions
  • Focus on connection and fun, not just food
  • Play some games that move people around (like charades or musical chairs for grownups)

Final Thought: a low-calorie party isn’t about restriction — it’s about smart swaps, good vibes, and feeling good while celebrating. No one has to know it’s a “healthier” party unless you tell them

 

How Walking Helps People with Obesity

Jason Exercise, Health, Lifestyle

Walking might seem simple, but for people living with obesity, it can be a powerful, low-impact way to boost health, confidence, and energy — no gym membership or fancy gear required.

Here’s why walking really works:

Gentle on the Body, Easy to Start: Unlike high-intensity workouts, walking is low-impact — which means it’s kinder to your joints, especially the knees, hips, and ankles. It’s a great entry point for people who are just starting out or returning to movement after a long break.

Great for Heart Health: Obesity increases the risk of heart disease — but walking helps fight that. Regular walks can: lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, and boost circulation. Even a 20–30 minute walk a few times a week can make a big difference over time.

Burns Calories, Supports Weight Loss: Walking helps burn calories — especially when done consistently. You don’t need to speed-walk or go miles. It’s about staying consistent. The cool part? The more you weigh, the more calories you burn per minute — so every step counts.

Improves Mood & Reduces Stress: Walking isn’t just about the body — it helps the mind too. Moving your body can release endorphins (feel-good chemicals), reduce anxiety, and even help with emotional eating. Plus, walking outdoors adds a bonus boost from fresh air, nature, or sunlight.

Helps With Sleep & Energy: Obesity is often linked to sleep issues like sleep apnea or fatigue. Regular walking can help improve sleep quality and boost daily energy, which makes it easier to stay motivated and active during the day.

Builds Momentum: One of the best things about walking is how it builds confidence. Starting with even 5–10 minutes a day can grow into a habit. As your endurance improves, you may find yourself walking farther, faster, or more often — without it feeling like a chore.

Bottom Line: Walking is not just exercise — it’s a gateway to feeling better, moving more, and creating positive change. You don’t need to go far. You just need to go at your pace. Every step forward is a step toward better health.

My Personal Experience: I bought a treadmill and it is the best investment I have ever made. Whenever I can spare a few minutes, as little as five sometimes, I walk on the treadmill. Walking longer than 10 minutes makes my hip joint hurt so walking outdoors is not for me as I may not make it back home without experiencing severe pain. Yeah, I know I’m a 73 year old fat wreck, but at least I am trying to not fall apart completely.

How TV Food Ads Trick Us Into Craving Junk Food

Jason Culture, Food, Health, Lifestyle, Technology

You’re watching your favorite show, totally chilling — then bam — a slow-mo shot of a burger with cheese oozing over the edge hits the screen. You weren’t even hungry… until now.

So, what gives? Why do TV food commercials make us suddenly crave fries, pizza, or something sweet? Turns out, it’s not just you. These ads are basically mini seduction sessions — and junk food is the star.

Let’s break it down.

Food commercials know how to put on a show. Everything is extra: extra juicy, extra crispy, extra slow-mo. They use perfect lighting, sizzle sounds, and HD close-ups that make even a basic sandwich look like a work of art.

They’re literally designed to make your mouth water. It’s not called “food porn” for nothing.

When you see delicious-looking food, your brain lights up like a pinball machine. It starts releasing dopamine — the feel-good chemical that makes you go, “Yep, I need that.”

And guess what? Even just hearing words like “melty,” “cheesy,” or “crispy” can trigger your brain into craving mode. It’s sneaky, but it works.

Ever notice how food ads seem to pop up more at night? That’s on purpose. Advertisers know we’re more likely to cave when we’re tired, bored, or stressed — aka prime couch snack time.

And during sports games? Yep, even more ads. Wings, chips, soda — they all come out to play when you’re not paying full attention.

Some ads try to convince you their product is basically healthy — “Made with real fruit!” “Natural flavors!” “Gluten-free!” — and while that might sound good, it doesn’t always mean the food is actually good for you.

It’s called “healthwashing,” and it’s a clever little trick to make you feel better about grabbing that snack.

With smart TVs and streaming, some food ads are now personalized. If you’ve been Googling “best brownies near me,” don’t be surprised if a gooey dessert ad magically appears. Ads are learning your habits — and showing up at just the right time to tempt you.

So What Can You Do?

No need to panic or ban yourself from watching TV. Just try a few of these:

  • Don’t watch food ads while hungry (dangerous territory).

  • Mute commercials or skip them when you can.

  • Ask yourself: Am I actually hungry or just being baited?

  • Keep healthy snacks nearby so you don’t end up impulse-ordering fries at 10pm.

Food ads are masters of temptation. They know how to make junk food look magical — but now you know the game. So next time that shiny burger flashes across the screen, give it a little smirk and say, “Nice try.”

Then go grab something that fuels you and makes you feel good.

Healthy Ketoburger

Recipe: Cod Braised with Tomatoes

Jason Diet, Food, Health, Lifestyle, Recipes

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for cod braised with tomatoes — cozy, healthy, and packed with flavor. It’s Mediterranean-inspired and perfect for a light dinner with crusty bread or rice.

Cod Braised with Tomatoes

Serves: 2–4 | Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 25 min

Ingredients:

  • 4 cod fillets (about 150–200g each), skinless (or tilapia)

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped

  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes (or use whole peeled & break them up)

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for depth)

  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

  • ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)

  • ½ cup vegetable or fish stock (or water)

  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

  • A handful of fresh parsley or basil, chopped

  • Zest of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

  • 1 tbsp capers or olives (optional, for salty punch)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté the aromatics:
    Heat olive oil in a wide pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 5–6 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

  2. Build the sauce:
    Stir in tomato paste (if using), crushed tomatoes, stock, paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened.

  3. Braise the cod:
    Nestle the cod fillets gently into the sauce. Spoon some sauce over the top. Cover and simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, or until the cod is opaque and flakes easily with a fork. Don’t overcook!

  4. Finish it up:
    Sprinkle with lemon zest, fresh herbs, and optional capers or olives. Drizzle a touch more olive oil if you like.

  5. Serve with:
    Crusty bread, steamed rice, couscous, or roasted veggies.

Nutrition (Per Serving):

  • Calories: ~280 kcal

  • Protein: ~32g

  • Fat: ~10g

    • Saturated Fat: ~1.5g

  • Carbohydrates: ~12g

    • Fiber: ~3g

    • Sugars: ~6g

  • Sodium: ~450mg (depends on stock and added salt)

  • Cholesterol: ~65mg

  • Vitamin C: ~25% DV

  • Vitamin A: ~10% DV

  • Iron: ~10% DV

  • Potassium: ~750mg

Notes:

  • High in Protein – thanks to the cod

  • Low in Carbs – suitable for light or low-carb meals

  • Rich in Omega-3s – especially if using wild cod

  • Low in saturated fat – heart-friendly option