Below are some DIY (Do-It-Yourself) tips & tricks and techniques for igniting your thoughts better for marching towards your goals.
Stay strong and keep going ๐
Keep rising above while avoiding falling apart:
Before tackling the bigger games, ensure you’ve taken care of the basics first >>


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Entertainment hours ideas ๐ >>


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<< Socialization ideas ๐
Motivation: WeโHomo sapiensโnavigate life in diverse ways, with some facing greater challenges than others.
These challenges may stem from financial status, personal loss, uncertainty, identity struggles, or even loneliness. How, then, can we foster resilience in such a diverse world? Consider the gender-based disparity in cortical development as shared below:
The human brain stabilizes around age 30 in males and 25 in females. However, fluctuations in brain development tend to be more pronounced in females due to hormonal shifts (e.g., pregnancy-related changes) and a higher statistical likelihood of trauma exposure. While these differences exist, everyone, regardless of their experiences, must cultivate their own energy and fuel (both physically and mentally) to thrive.Ultimately, the goal is not just survival but growth and contributionโto give back more than we take.Struggling to focus or execute your goals effectively? – contact me – let’s discuss productivity for a better well-being for together, we can make it happen!~ DG ๐๐ผ๐ (Disclaimer: This is just one perspective; challenges affect everyone differently. Let’s focus on the key message of resilience. Appreciate the good spirit ๐๐ผ)
<< Image source: Kaczkurkin, A. N., Raznahan, A., & Satterthwaite, T. D. (2019). Sex differences in the developing brain: insights from multimodal neuroimaging. Neuropsychopharmacology, 44(1), 71-85.

Which DIY must I chose: Use the right strategy & technique depending on your need of the hour! ๐
Example: A discussion share from DG with one of her old marathon running buddies, Dr. Holtz:

1. Hands Above the Head
โ
Expands chest & lungs โ Enhances deep breathing and oxygen intake.
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Engages core & shoulders โ Strengthens upper body.
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Promotes better posture โ Reduces slouching, aligns spine.
โ May elevate heart rate โ Harder recovery when fatigued.
โ Less stable โ Can challenge balance.
Best for: Stretching (yoga, overhead reach), active recovery (deep breathing), and exercises like jumping jacks, overhead presses, or running posture improvement.
2. Hands on the Knees
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Aids recovery โ Eases breathing, stabilizes posture.
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Relieves upper body strain โ Speeds cooldown after intense effort.
โ
Provides stability โ Prevents dizziness, supports balance.
โ Can collapse chest โ Limits deep breathing if slouched.
โ Less core engagement โ Minimal upper body activation.
Best for: Post-sprint recovery, resting between sets, managing fatigue efficiently.
Final verdict: take your pick
- For active movement or deep breathing โ Hands above the head.
- For catching your breath quickly & reducing strain โ Hands on the knees.
Further readings:
- Michaelson, J. V., Brilla, L. R., Suprak, D. N., McLaughlin, W. L., & Dahlquist, D. T. (2019). Effects of two different recovery postures during high-intensity interval training. Translational Journal of the American College of Sports Medicine, 4(4), 23-27.
- What Is the Best Recovery Position for After a Hard Effort? The answer may surprise you. By Danielle Zickl Published: Mar 23, 2020 3:08 PM EDT
Progress is a step-by-step process, and it’s okay to seek guidance along the way. If you find yourself needing support, feel free to return to this website anytime. Wishing you all the best on your path forward.
So, which DIY technique stood out to you? โjust take a moment to reflect for yourself. Cook your own recipe. Cheers โ๐
Important Note: This platform is primarily for anyone including but not limited to students and researchers of all ages and backgrounds who seek to thrive. However, if you are facing an extreme crisisโsuch as suicidal thoughtsโI sincerely urge you to have a trusted guardian or support person with you, especially if you are under 18-21 or in a vulnerable state. You are not aloneโstay strong and hopeful. ๐ Thank you! ๐๐ผ
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