@hellolovelyliving

Anxiety is an extremely common mental health concern all around the world. After all, we are all human beings and the pressures of life can affect us all to varying degrees. In fact, it’s the most common mental health issue in the US, affecting up to 40 adults each year. If you’re struggling with anxious feelings, you are not alone. Learning how to cope more effectively will help to lessen the periods of anxiety you experience at any given time.  

If you are someone who struggles with anxious feelings, it can seem difficult to find ways to cope with what you are experiencing. Anxiety can appear difficult to manage, so much so, that at times it can feel almost impossible, but with the right strategy and approach, you can make managing your anxiety far easier to achieve. 

Looking for steps that you can take to make coping a little easier? Below are a few coping strategies that you can apply to help lessen and prevent these feelings from arising. It is far easier to prevent symptoms of anxiety and get to the root cause versus covering your symptoms over with things that only mask the problem. Feelings of anxiousness can be prevented with just a few intentional changes and healthy habits applied to your life.

NO. 1

Stay active

If you’re not already physically active on a regular basis, take positive steps to become more active. Exercise is a great way to relieve stress, so making time to work out each day - even if just for a short period of time - is a great way to keep your stress and anxiety levels low. 

To get started, it’s best to start out slow. Find a form of exercise that you enjoy. Whether that is running or practicing yoga, choose something you love. Aim to exercise or be physically active for at least 20 minutes a day. As a result, you should find that you feel far less anxious.

NO.2

Cut back on caffeinated drinks & nicotine

Both caffeine (found in coffee, teas, and sports drinks) and nicotine (found in cigarettes) can heighten feelings of anxiety and panic due to their chemical reaction within our bodies. It is a good idea to cut back on or put down these substances to keep your mood balanced.

NO. 3

Know your triggers

When it comes to feelings of anxiety, most people have triggers that make them feel anxious or cause them to panic, so it is worth taking the time to identify what these triggers are for you. By identifying the things that cause you anxiety, you can determine what steps you can take to avoid finding yourself in those situations and also learn how to manage those associated feelings. 

NO. 4

Get enough sleep

An important part of managing anxiety is making sure that you are able to get enough sleep so that you can start each day feeling rested and refreshed. When your body lacks energy, this can cause a host of issues with your mental health and can make feelings of stress and anxiety feel far worse than they are.

NO. 5

Know when you need help

Anxiety is a natural human emotion, but it is also a mental health condition that can impact all aspects of your life. If you experience severe symptoms of anxiety, or you feel anxious most of the time, it is important to recognize when you need help.

If you feel uneasy or on edge in environments that are non-threatening to others, you are unable to switch off, or you are relying on alcohol or drugs to help you to relax or feel calm, it is crucial to act. Talking to your doctor, seeking help from a therapist, and exploring treatment options can help.

For alcohol addiction, for example, strategies and therapies range from women’s sober living and intensive rehabilitation programs to medication, talking therapies, and group support sessions. A combination of therapies and treatments is often recommended for mental health disorders and addictions.

NO. 6

Look at treatment options

If your anxiety is not constant, then the idea of exploring treatment options might not seem worthwhile. However, remember that if it could help you feel better, then it could be worth taking the time to explore your options. From talking and group therapies to alternative treatments and natural remedies such as cbd oil, there are many effective natural alternatives when it comes to managing feelings of anxiety. 

“I had been suffering from cycles of anxiety and feelings of depression during PMS very frequently, so I was in search for ways that I could address what my body was lacking, naturally. During our monthly cycle, we are in need of balancing things out. Our bodies tend to be deficient, which causes symptoms to arise or be excacerbated. Upon doing some research recently, I discovered how Chaste Tree Berry, Vitamin E, Vitamin B Complex, and Evening Primrose Oil can have a positive affect on anxiety as it appears in women, specifically. Since taking these supplements together, I have noticed a significant difference and reduction in my anxiety symptoms. So far, this combination has worked for me, and I am continuing to take them daily.”

Stina x Hello Lovely Living

Takeaways

We know ourselves better than we know anyone else, so learning to identify things that you know are triggering your anxiety can drastically help you find ongoing and long-term relief. As a society, we have a tendency to reach for a product or find a reason to excuse the resulting symptom of a much larger picture. Let’s be the ones to take inventory within ourselves and find solutions that will be specific and fitting for us, individually. We do not need a one-size-fits-all approach, just some good ol’ self-love.

Have you found ways to manage your anxiety with success? How about natural anxiety treatments that have worked or are working for you. Let us know in the comments below. We would love to hear about your experiences.

Confidence spreads like wildfire. It is a trait that all leaders have in common, and it is crucial for your career, your overall quality of life, and ultimate success. Confidence can also be difficult to develop for some, and innate for others. If you often succumb to self-doubt, it can feel like a very painful, uphill battle. However, if you develop this area regularly and practice healthy habits to maintain your confidence, you will attain the confidence you desire. You must work on loving yourself and being happy with who you are. Once you have done that, you have won half the battle, and you can work on believing in your abilities even further. Follow these simple steps to go down this path and be surprised at what a difference it makes in building your confidence.

No. 1

Adopt a health-conscious beauty routine

Developing healthy habits is a fundamental way to feel good about yourself. From your diet to your beauty routine, practicing healthy habits daily will take you further in gaining confidence than any piece of clothing will. Whatever we ingest shows up on the exterior more than we care to admit. If we pay attention to this simple fact, we can avoid many common stresses that have a significant effect on our confidence as a whole. For one, the types of foods we eat play a crucial role in our outer appearance and confidence. In particular, switching to a fruit and vegetable-based diet will provide phenomenal results in your energy levels, and in effect will cause you to be healthier and more prepared to present your best self to the world.

Similarly, improving or changing your diet can help you manage your weight, clear up your skin, address health concerns, and help you feel great on a daily basis. If you wash and moisturize your face twice daily and work on combatting acne or any other skin conditions, you can ease through a more natural beauty routine rather than just relying on makeup to cover up underlying issues. All you need to do is start focusing on perfecting a beauty routine that is naturally healthy for you in the long run. Additionally, simply understanding the importance of proper water intake can make all the difference in our body’s ability to function optimally. So, if you are concerned about your skin and overall health and how that affects your confidence levels, simply drink more water daily.

No.2

Learn Something New Every Day

Learning is a very powerful and empowering activity that we can partake in every single day. To start, read and develop your communication skills and knowledge base, or take classes and improve your social skills. If you do these things regularly, you will find that you have more to offer, and that is what builds confidence over time. Get out there into the world and learn about things first-hand or enjoy a documentary after work. By learning something new every day, you better yourself every day. The result is an empowered feeling over time, and it is a great way to build confidence, effortlessly. Find what you enjoy learning about and make it a natural fit in your daily life. Knowing that you are invaluable with so much to offer the world and others will enable you even further along your confidence-building journey. We like to feel needed and have the persistent desire to feel heard, noticed, and appreciated. Doing the above will provide a way to achieve that in any environment. Challenging your brain daily is also a great way to keep it active and engaged in any and every situation.

No. 3

Be mindful of your appearance

I’m sure you have heard the phrase, “first impressions matter.” Well, this is a very true statement because as human beings, we subconsciously judge appearances all the time. It’s a natural way for us to gather information about a person, place, or thing based on appearances first. In that regard, fashion is a way to express who you are without even speaking. We can be happier with who we are and how we present ourselves if we let our creativity and individuality shine through in the way we present ourselves and maintain our appearance consistently. It might sound vain, but feeling good about how we look is an important part of loving ourselves.

If your current attire does not reflect your genuine sense of style or taste, it may reflect negatively on the way you present yourself to the world. You may not feel as confident when meeting people for the first time or you may not have a cohesive first impression that matches other obvious reflections of yourself. If this is the case, you can apply simple changes. For example, this is especially true if your clothes are too tight or make you feel uncomfortable. Dressing for your body type is the best way to feel good in your clothing, look better, and acquire more overall confidence. Look for clothing that feels comfortable and looks good on you, not just what is trending at the moment. Spend some extra time and effort on identifying common dressing troubles such as the best bras for large busts or finding brands that cater to your particular body shape or type.

No. 4

Travel alone

If you really want to test your confidence and build it at the same time, travel alone. Solo travel, especially if you are a woman, is often seen as dangerous or taboo, but it can actually be one of the best ways to travel the world and cultivate your independence. After all, when you are by yourself, you have more incentive to make friends along the way. You are in charge of your future and your safety, and getting through your trip and enjoying it is one of the most empowering things you can do for your self-development. You are completely in charge of your own decisions, and you must learn to rely on yourself and the decisions you make along the way. This will in turn give you confidence in your own decisions after you finish your adventures, and everyday life will suddenly seem that much easier.

takeaways

There is no right or wrong way to become more confident. In fact, the only thing that matters is that you believe in yourself and know your worth. Each of us has so many reasons to believe in ourselves and to feel empowered because we all possess unique gifts that equip us for our life experiences. Allow yourself to naturally discover the things that make you feel distinct from the rest, then focus on that as the mechanism upon which your confidence is built. Only you know the answer to that. Once you go inside yourself, you will be able to lift whatever hinders you so that you can reveal your true nature and self. You deserve to become the confident, independent person you dream you can be. Look within.

@design_hunger

Building a business is a demanding and time-consuming endeavor. Once this occurs, it is natural if you have let other priorities go as a result. On the other hand, failure to maintain a healthy lifestyle for an extended period of time may cause undesirable consequences. If you do not maintain your health, you run the danger of being burnt out. In fact, 78 percent of business founders have admitted to having gone through it.

It is critical to establish good habits from the beginning in order to avoid the development of stress-related side effects over time, such as insomnia and anxiety. It is not necessary to wait until your company has gotten off the ground to begin attempting to achieve an appropriate work-life balance. Eventually, you will discover that there is always an excuse to put off taking care of your mental and physical health.

According to statistics, burnout is more likely to occur within the first two to ten years of your company's existence. This is precisely why it is necessary to take quick action in the following areas:

Diet

Grabbing lunch on the run is appropriate once in a while, but the phrase ‘quick and easy’ should never be used to describe your diet. Instead of feeling that you are too busy to enjoy regular, healthy meals, consider the possibility that you require regular, nutritious meals because you are so busy. It goes without saying that food is fuel and that without it, your body is susceptible to a breakdown. The first step you should do is to designate a certain lunch hour for yourself. You must commit to eating during this designated lunch hour each day, ideally away from your work if you want it to be considered a priority.

Rather than consuming sugary meals that provide a rapid burst of energy followed by a crash, choose foods that provide sustained energy throughout the day. This includes proteins, carbohydrates, cereals, and legumes. Preparing nutritious snacks for the workplace, such as nuts and dried fruit, will allow you to breeze through the day.

Everyone has heard it before, and it is still true today: “Breakfast is an essential meal of the day.” No matter how many times you have heard it, it is just a non-negotiable at this point. Set your alarm for a time when you will have enough time to eat so that you may begin your working day in the best possible manner.

Sleep

What is the significance of addressing sleep first? Quite simply, when you have a hectic schedule, it is generally the first area to suffer. This is a serious problem, as the importance of getting enough sleep at regular hours cannot be stressed. After all, getting enough sleep is one of the most crucial things you can do to stay healthy. It is a natural healer that aids in the reduction of stress levels in the body. Sleep deprivation impairs your ability to concentrate, problem-solve, and make judgments, all of which can affect your ability to maintain your business successfully.

A few reasons why you may be sleep-compromised are due to environmental stresses such as noise pollution that occurs when living in the city and urban areas. For example, you may live in NYC, so finding soundproof windows would be of paramount importance for removing up to 95% of outside noise. It will also significantly reduce dirt and drafts that usually can affect the quality of the air in your home.

If you are having difficulty getting a good night's sleep, there are several actions you may take. To begin, the most obvious and, at times, the most difficult step is to decrease your screen usage at night. For computers and mobile phones, this means imposing a rigorous cut-off time when they are used beyond certain hours. You should also refrain from drinking coffee after 3 p.m. and avoid eating large meals immediately before bedtime.

health

When we are busy, we often neglect our existing health concerns and may put them off repeatedly. We think that unless there is something urgently wrong with us, we can wait to speak to a professional or seek help. The truth is that prevention is always better than a cure. Whether it is routine appointments with your medical care provider, or if you have medical conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia or diabetes that require a medical professional to keep a close eye on you, it is vital that you stay up to date with the medical care you require.

Mental health

Taking care of your physical well-being is one thing. Another thing to remember is to look after your brain. They are, nonetheless, intricately intertwined. Exercise, for example, has been shown to have anti-depressant properties.

Another strategy to maintain a healthy frame of mind is to establish relationships with other people. Working long hours might cause you to become estranged from your family and friends, which may have a negative effect on your mood. What is the solution? Concentrate on carving out quality time with them, and most importantly, put your cell phone aside while you are doing so.

If you have the opportunity to spend quality time with friends or family in nature, even better. Even a limited period of time spent outside can have a significant impact on lowering the risk of developing anxiety, stress, and depression.

Stress is a natural response to events or situations that we perceive as threatening or challenging. While a moderate level of stress can help motivate us to take action, too much stress can negatively affect our physical and emotional health. If you're feeling overwhelmed by stress, here are nine natural ways you can reduce it.

No. 1

Exercise

One of the best ways to reduce stress is to get moving. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. It also helps to clear your mind and improve your sleep quality. Even a moderate amount of exercise can make a big difference in your stress levels, so don't be afraid to get started even if you're not an athlete.

If you're new to exercise, start by adding a brisk walk to your daily routine. You can also try other low-impact activities like yoga or Tai Chi. If you're looking for something more challenging, consider swimming, biking, or running. No matter what type of activity you choose, be sure to listen to your body and stop if you feel pain.

No. 2

Make time for yourself

It's essential to make time for things that make you happy and help you relax. This could mean reading, taking a bath, listening to music, or spending time with friends or family. Whatever it is that brings you joy, make sure to schedule some time for it every day.

Even if you can only spare a few minutes, taking some time out for yourself will help reduce your stress levels. If you have trouble carving out time for yourself, try waking up 15 minutes earlier or going to bed 15 minutes later. As a result, you can enjoy some peace and quiet without impacting your daily routine too much.

No. 3

Connect with nature

Spending time in nature has reduced stress and improved mental well-being. Try to spend at least 30 minutes outside every day if you can. This could mean taking a walk in the park, gardening, or simply sitting on your porch or balcony.

If you live in a city and don't have easy access to green space, look for ways to bring nature into your home. This could include potting plants, hanging bird feeders, or keeping a fish tank.

Even looking at pictures of nature can help lower stress levels, so don't hesitate to put up some scenic photos if you can't get outside as often as you'd like.

No. 4

Practice deep breathing

Deep breathing is a simple but effective way to reduce stress. When you're feeling overwhelmed, take a few minutes to sit down and focus on your breath. Slowly inhale through your nose, letting your stomach expand. Then exhale slowly through your mouth.

Repeat this process for a few minutes or until you feel your stress levels start to decrease. You can also add some aromatherapy to your deep breathing by using an essential oil diffuser with lavender or other calming scents.

No. 5

Try meditation

Meditation is another technique that can help reduce stress. It involves focusing your attention on a specific object or thought while letting other thoughts come and go without judgment.

There are many different types of meditation, so you can experiment to find the one that works best for you. For example, some people prefer to meditate in silence, while others prefer to listen to guided meditations or relaxing music.

If you're new to meditation, start by trying it for a few minutes each day. Then, you can gradually increase the length of your sessions as you become more comfortable with the practice.

Like deep breathing, meditation can be done anywhere at any time, so it's a great way to reduce stress at the moment.

No. 6

Get enough sleep

Sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. When you're stressed, your body needs extra time to recover and repair. This means that getting enough sleep is more important than ever.

Most adults need between seven and eight hours of sleep per night. If you're struggling to get enough rest, try changing your bedtime routine. This could include disconnecting from electronics an hour before bed, reading a book instead of watching TV, or taking a relaxing bath before going to sleep.

You may also want to experiment with different types of mattresses or pillows until you find the most comfortable ones for you. Getting a good night's sleep will help reduce stress and improve your overall health.

No. 7

Try natural relaxation Supplements 

Several natural supplements can help reduce stress. Herbal supplements like ashwagandha, lemon balm, and valerian root have all been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety.

You can also try taking magnesium supplements, which have been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce stress levels. If you're looking for a more immediate solution, CBD oil has also been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety. Read the delta 8 gummies review for more information on CBD-infused items and how they might help you. 

Always talk to your doctor before taking any new supplements, even if it's natural. They can help you determine the correct dosage and make sure it won't interact with any medications you're taking.

No. 8

Get Some Sun

One of the most effective (and free!) stress-busters is simply spending time outside in the sun. Not only does vitamin D help reduce anxiety and depression, but getting some sun also helps your body produce more serotonin, which is a feel-good hormone that can improve your mood and overall sense of well-being. If you live in a colder climate or wintertime, try taking a daily vitamin D supplement to get your fix.

One study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that just 20 minutes of green space exposure helped improve mood and reduce stress.

No. 9

Go on a holiday

When we return from a vacation, we all know that feeling: We're tan, rested, and ready to take on the world. But it turns out that the benefits of vacationing go beyond just the week or two after you get back. In fact, one study found that people who took regular vacations had a lower risk of dying from heart disease.

So if you're feeling stressed, do yourself a favor and start planning your next trip. Even if it's just a long weekend away, getting out of town can do wonders for your stress levels.

There are many natural ways that you can follow to reduce increased stress. While some methods may work better for others, finding what works best for you is essential. Experiment with different techniques and find what helps you relax and de-stress the most. Remember, do not hesitate to ask for help from a professional if your stress levels become too much to handle on your own. Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health!

@hellolovelyliving

It's no secret that mental health is a topic of conversation nowadays. With more and more people coming forward to talk about their own experiences with mental illness, it's becoming easier to understand that everyone has mental health, just like they have physical health. And just like physical health, mental health needs to be taken care of in order to stay healthy.

There are many myths out there about mental health. For example, some people believe that mental illness is just someone being lazy or making excuses. Others may think that only weak people experience mental illness. Unfortunately, these beliefs can prevent people from seeking help or getting the support they need.

Mental illness is actually quite common. Around 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences some form of mental illness each year. Mental illness can affect anyone at any time, regardless of age, income level, race, or gender. To make matters worse, many people don't get the help they need.

There are many ways to take care of your mental health. Just as you would see a doctor for a physical ailment, you can also see a therapist or counselor for your mental health. Talking to someone who is trained to help can be extremely beneficial in managing mental health issues.

In addition to seeing a professional, there are many ways you can address mental health concerns on your own. Let’s discuss them briefly.

Practice Self-Awareness

One of the most important things to do is to be mindful and aware of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors each day. This means paying attention to what you're feeling and why, being present in the moment, and noticing when you feel stressed or anxious.

Suppose you notice any changes in your mood or behavior that seem unusual or out of character for you. The symptoms that you are experiencing may be due to substances that are having ill effects on your mental health. In that case, it's important to talk to a medical professional at a rehab center about it as soon as possible. They can help you figure out what's going on and provide treatment options.

Take Care Of Yourself Physically

Another thing that can help is making sure that you are taking care of yourself physically as well. While getting good sleep, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly all play an important role in physical health, they also contribute greatly to mental health. Taking care of your body helps keep stress at bay and allows your mind to function optimally as well.

Pay Attention To Self-care

Another key component of mental health is self-care. This can mean anything from getting enough sleep and exercise to practicing healthy coping skills like journaling or talking with close friends and family members. It's also important to remember that mental health is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, you need to find whatever works best for you and your unique needs.

Takeaways

If you're struggling with mental health issues, don't be afraid to seek help. There are many resources available, from online support groups and therapy sessions to alternative supplements and lifestyle changes. By taking care of yourself both mentally and physically, you can live a happier, healthier life.

Phuket is a wonderful beach destination with pristine white sand shores and a stunning coastline. Not only does it boast some of the most beautiful beaches in Thailand like Kata, Freedom Beach, and Karon, but it also boasts spectacular architecture most visibly observed at a temple. Phuket is also a great place to experience a lovely stay at a Phuket villa.

The island is well-known for its Buddhist temples and Chinese shrines that you must visit if you want to experience a different side of Phuket. 

In Thai, a temple is called ‘Wat’ like Wat Chalong and Wat Mongkol Nimit. Here are some of the must-visit temples in Phuket:

Wat Chalong (Chaithararam Temple) 

A 19th-century architectural marvel and the most significant temple in Phuket, Wat Chaithararam or Chalong Temple as it is commonly called should not be missed. Pay your respects in the central temple with lotus flower offerings, lighting firecrackers, or using gold foil. If you desire a panoramic view of the entire temple grounds, you can make your way to the top floor. Peaceful and fragrant, Wat Chalong is one for the books. It even holds a special bone fragment of Buddha that is open for public viewing. 

Wat Khao Nekkerd (Big Buddha Temple)

An important landmark in Phuket, the Big Buddha statue is visible from most places in the south. The white marble Big Buddha statue is perched atop Nakkerd Hill in Karon. The best part about visiting the Big Buddha Temple is the views. You can see Phang Nga Bay, Kata Bay, Karon Beach, Promthep Cape, and more. Some spectacular sunsets await at Wat Khao Nekkerd. It is a popular tourist spot so you can expect a bigger crowd than other temples. 

Wat Mongkol Nimit

If you want to witness monks in training, attend Thai ceremonies, and observe traditional Sino-Portuguese architecture, the lesser-known but equally special Wat Mongkol Nimit is the place for you. There are maxims inscribed on each of the many trees in the temple garden and the temple is quiet and peaceful, suitable for a visit one afternoon. The temple is easy to reach, and once there, you can take your time exploring the temple grounds for the little details you shouldn’t miss.

Wat Sri Sunthon

A gold statue of a reclining Buddha is what makes Wat Sri Sunthon worth a visit. Glimmering under the sun, the Buddha statue can be seen from the main airport road that runs in front of the temple. The temple grounds feature exquisite architecture and you can even walk around the Buddha statue accessible via a staircase. There are several sculptures on the temple grounds that refer to local myths and beliefs. The massive pink elephant sculptures will help you find intrigue inside the walls of Wat Sri Sunthon.   

Wat Suwan Kirikhet (Karon Temple)

A vibrant and popular temple known for the temple market, Wat Suwan Kirikhet is another must-visit site in Phuket. The Karon temple market draws throngs of people who scour the street stalls selling everything from balms to local cosmetics and delicious local food. The temple is situated on Karon Beach that hosts an exciting night market for travelers and locals alike. If you are visiting Karon beach, be sure to check the temple market for a one-of-a-kind experience.

The temples in Phuket are special because they offer a unique glimpse into a new and different culture. You can explore the temple grounds, learn more about the ascetic lives of monks, and witness the glittering gold Buddha statues. Explore Phuket’s sights and sounds by adding this destination to your bucket list and indulge in magnificent beaches, nightlife, and temples at the top of your to-do list.

Nowadays, when technology has basically taken control of our lives and we cannot imagine our day without scrolling through our social media accounts, shutting the world out and focusing on ourselves seems like the hardest thing on the planet. As our days become more and more chaotic, it is more important than ever to create opportunities to unwind and reset. If your wellness is in jeopardy, consider one of the following destinations for your next vacation. You will return home refreshed, in touch with yourself, and ready to tackle the challenges of everyday life.

Dharamshala, India

If the thought of having a conversation with other people is making your stomach turn, spending time in a silent retreat may do you some good. This type of relaxation is available in Dharamshala, India, where you can also find free daily meditation classes. This beautiful place also offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and paragliding, if you are looking for a shot of adrenaline. It is probably safe to say that Dharamshala is the best place on the planet to experience Tibetan Buddhist culture. Whether you are an adventure seeker or you are just looking for an opportunity to reconnect with yourself, you cannot go wrong with Dharamshala.

Tulum, Mexico

If you are looking to escape modern life and enjoy some quiet time on pristine beaches, Tulum is the place for you. Located in Mexico, this place is a haven of artists, hippies, and all alternative thinkers. In this fascinating community, you will be able to find amazing spa centers that offer soothing treatments with Mayan clay and fruit masks. If you want to experience a spiritual and relaxing sensation, in Tulum you will find the peace and tranquility you seek.

Sedona, Arizona

For those who are looking to feed their soul, checking out the desert town of Sedona might be just what the doctor prescribed. Allegedly, this place should be the home of numerous energy vortexes. At a local resort, you will get to meditate, participate in moon ceremonies, and experience canyon bathing firsthand. If you are skeptical about these activities, simply hiking through this red sandstone scenery can give you peace of mind.

Ubud, Bali

If travel blogs such as the Big Booty Fish have infected you with a travel bug and you are looking for a heaven on Earth, Bali is the place where you want to be. Or, to be more precise, Ubud. This place is a rejuvenation jewel, which all yogis should visit. Apart from yoga practices, you will also be able to engage in various adventures, such as trips to local waterfalls, rice terraces, and coffee plantations. All of this is just a scooter ride away so you surely won’t have a problem planning interesting activities for yourself.

Kauai, Hawaii

With plenty of rainforests, mountains, rivers, and waterfalls, Kauai is an island crawling with wellness retreats. Here you will be able to get private yoga lessons and massages, but also learn to surf. This so-called Garden Island possesses overwhelming natural beauty, so visiting it should definitely be on your to-do list.

Karasburg Region, Namibia

Are you an animal lover? If so, visiting the gorgeous Namibian countryside is the right choice for you. In the local wildlife reserve, you will get to encounter endangered species, as well as practice yoga and meditation. From engaging in wildlife counts to leopard research and various surveys, this place offers plenty of activities for those who find inner peace by helping these furry friends.

Takeaways 

Travel is not always about seeing and experiencing new things. Sometimes it is about reconnecting with nature and yourself, finding peace of mind, and recharging your batteries. There are plenty of gorgeous locations all over the world that offer such opportunities, and these wellness destinations are definitely on top of the list.

As a motorcyclist, you surely know that there aren’t many things on this planet that can give you that untainted feeling of freedom as jumping on your two-wheeled toy and hitting the road. Unfortunately, the fact is that this world is not a safe place for a female traveling solo, although we often overlook this. There are so many things that can put you in harm’s way, from other drivers to strangers you meet along the way and potential miscalculated moves. Of course, this is not the reason to leave your bike parked in your garage for good. With these tips in mind, you can have a positive experience and make smart choices on the road.

Research your destinations

Traveling solo and traveling as a group are two completely different things. The former involves more preparation, so make sure you do your homework before you head out the door. First of all, you will need to thoroughly plan your trip, which involves choosing your accommodations carefully. Find a place where you want to stay and mark it on your map. This will help you find the hotel easily and allow you to unpack your bags before nightfall.

Don’t pack too many things

Not packing light will only slow you down. You do not need five pairs of shoes or three dresses on your trip. Streamline your vacation packing by opting for a single pair of shoes and infuse them with versatility by swapping out the laces, such as adding rope laces to your sneakers, allowing you to achieve a variety of stylish looks without the need for extra footwear. Essentially, to have a safe, cheaper, and happier travel experience you should only bring essentials with you. Not to worry, after a couple of trips you will know exactly what they are.

Do not tell strangers where you are going

You may meet new people along the way, but they do not need to know where you are spending the night, even if they are also fans of Italian motorcycles or share your other interests. Keeping your accommodation to yourself, as well as other private information can save you a lot of trouble. If your social media circle also includes people you do not know, do not share details of your ride on your Facebook or Instagram account.

Get travel insurance 

You never know what can happen on the road, which is why having travel insurance is a must. This way you will sleep better knowing that you are covered in case of an emergency. Accidents can happen even when you are not on the bike, so make sure you are prepared for any type of situation.

Keep your valuables close

As a solo female rider, you will be considered an easy target. Of course, that doesn’t mean you are, just that you may unintentionally fall target to thieves and con artists. When you are on the road, make sure that any important documents are with you at all times. That means you should never leave them on your bike while you are paying for gas or carrying travel bags into your room. Second of all, make copies that you will keep with you as well as at home. Your keys and money/cards should also be with you wherever you go. Make sure you don’t keep them in a pocket that can be easily accessed by pickpockets. For example, place them in the inside pocket of your vest or wear a waist-bag with a zipper.

Let your loved ones know where you are

Before you hit the road, share your itinerary with your loved ones. If you wish, you can also install a tracking app that will help them know where you are at all times. If something goes south, this can be a lifesaver.

A healthy immune system is vital for your wellness as it guards the body against infection and illness. Your immune system needs to be cherished and taken care of through various avenues. Living a healthy lifestyle is first and foremost. Aside from avoiding vices like drinking and smoking, it is essential that we exercise, or at the least, be physically active. More importantly, one aspect will make all the difference: eating a proper diet that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins that will keep your immune system in check. Here are some of the foods that will help you achieve that balance. 

Broccoli

Maybe you didn’t like broccoli as a kid, but now that you’re a grown-up, things are likely a little different. Broccoli is an amazing source of vitamin C, plus it contains powerful antioxidants, which is why you should include it in your regular diet if you want to remain healthy and strong. 

Garlic

Garlic is a common staple food and spice, so you probably have it in your kitchen already. For many years, garlic has been used as a remedy for colds and other illnesses, however, the best way to consume it is if you want to prevent colds. Garlic contains an organic compound, allicin, that is known to reduce the risk of colds and other ailments. Therefore, add garlic to your pasta, bread, and other meals, as it’s going to make them more delicious and healthier. 

Various nuts

Nuts are delicious and energizing, which is why they’re such a popular snack for athletes, models, and everybody else who relies on a healthy diet to make a living. But, you should consume nuts either way, especially if you want to remain healthy and strong. Walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, and pistachios are only some of the nuts that can promote weight loss, boost concentration, and aid gut health. Other nuts such as baruka nuts, can also reduce obesity, lower bad cholesterol, and fight against oxidative diseases. Therefore, consuming nuts on a regular basis is a great decision that will lead to a strong immune system.

Green tea

We all love coffee, but drinking too much of it can cause anxiety and jitters. Therefore, finding a healthier and more suitable replacement is definitely a good idea. This is where green tea comes to the rescue: it contains a small amount of caffeine, which is a great alternative to over-caffeinated drinks. Plus, it’s also rich in flavonoids that may reduce the risk of colds. 

Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate is a great solution for those who have a sweet tooth. This healthy sweet snack contains powerful antioxidants that can strengthen the immune system by fighting against free radicals that are responsible for many diseases. However, since dark chocolate has high calorie and fat content, it’s important to consume it in moderation. 

Takeaways 

These are just some of the foods that may boost your immune system and prevent diseases. There are many others, which means it’s important to learn about different foods and the proper ways to add them to your diet. Eating a healthy diet is the sure way to make your immune system strong, which might also prevent illnesses in the future. 

Sustainability is a pretty big topic right now, and for a good reason: the effects of climate change significantly threatens our environment, which is why we must apply ways to minimize our environmental impact. Living an eco-friendly lifestyle is one of the best ways to make that happen since individual effort can make a big difference in the long run. If you want to live a more sustainable lifestyle, here are a few ways that will help jump-start your journey.

Don't throw everything away

We live in a society that promotes endless consumption, and it is well-known that such behavior is extremely harmful to the environment. Therefore, learning how to reduce, reuse, and recycle can be of immediate impact. The easiest way to start is to adopt certain zero-waste principles. Now, that does not mean you should keep everything you use, but finding creative ways to reuse certain items, especially single-use plastics, can be very beneficial. Also, do not worry about being perfect in the process, instead find eco-conscious practices that work best for you.

Walk more, drive less

Vehicles are responsible for a vast amount of CO2 emissions, thus being one of the top sources of global pollution. That is why it is advisable to drive less and walk more. If you still must use a vehicle, it is best to opt for cycling, ride-sharing, or even better, public transportation. You might even combine cycling and public transportation, mainly if the place you live in has a functional subway system. 

Be an eco-conscious traveler

It is certainly possible to be a mindful traveler with a few simple changes. Flying less and selecting alternative transportation options is a significant help, along with choosing green hotels and other accommodation types that care for the environment. Also, if you are a fan of seaside activities, find the best sustainable swimwear next time you decide to go to the beach. Aside from these, travel as lightly as possible and treat the environment with respect and consideration, no matter where your travels take you.

Make your home more energy-efficient

This one is crucial as it saves you a lot of energy (and money) in the long run. Insulating your home is the first step, especially if you live in an area with cold and harsh winters. Once you insulate your home, you will notice more warmth and less energy consumption during the heating season. Also, opt for more long-lasting and durable products, which means more successful energy conservation.

Thrift-shopping is for everyone

Sure, buying new clothes is one of the best ways to lift yourself out of a bad mood. But, the fast-fashion industry is also responsible for enormous waste and pollution in landfills. Thrift shopping is a perfect solution: it promotes a circular economy while reducing waste. If you are new to thrifting, you may find it confusing at first; Feel free to start slow until you get more comfortable with it. Selecting used items over new items is one of the best eco-friendly decisions that you can make. It reduces consumption and makes use of already available resources.

Takeaways

These tips will surely help you become more eco-conscious. Producing less waste, shopping second-hand, and being a sustainable traveler are all intentional practices that can help you start your eco-friendly journey. Additionally, eating less meat and dairy, using public transportation, and making your home more energy-efficient are items worth your effort as they are effective ways to reduce our environmental impact.

Stress plays a fundamental role in motivating people to overcome professional and personal hurdles in life. However, too much stress can drastically impact your life, especially when balancing your work life with your personal life. Stress has different definitions in different dictionaries. In general, parameters that promote stress include financial challenges, overthinking about personal problems, professional competitions, social anxieties, etc.

While these factors might be a part of your pragmatic life, what they indeed do is contribute to health-related problems. All in all, it complicates one’s personal, professional, academic, and social life. If you think these above factors have affected your life with anxiety issues, it’s the right time to get the proper treatment.

With a varying range of treatments for anxiety and stress, you may already become confused before selecting the right solution. But given that prescribed drugs have unwanted side effects, stress-alleviating herbal therapies become the best alternative treatment.

Discuss with a medical professional before stopping or reducing prescribed medications only to follow herbal therapies. Here are the top seven herbal treatments for anxiety and stress. Let’s learn about them.

Cannabis

Coming from the family of Cannbacae, Cannabis is a flowering plant that includes three species - indica, sativa, and ruderalis. It contains cannabidiol or CBD, a natural chemical, and you can get it in different forms, including liquid extract, tablet, vape liquid, topical cream, etc. 

Studies have indicated that CBD effectively treats sleep disorders (insomnia, etc.), chronic pain, and anxiety. So, to reap the benefits, you can choose high supplies from the best suppliers.

Lavender

Who would have ever imagined that a flowering plant like lavender belonging to the mint family would get famous as an herbal treatment? Yes, you read that correctly!

Honestly speaking, it can help calm your nerves and reduce anxiety. There are different ways of including lavender as your safe herbal treatment, such as:

• Make tea from the leaves.

• Add its flowers or oil to baths

• Oil in aromatherapy

• Blending the oil with regular massage oil

Valerian

Valerian is a plant found mainly in Asia and Europe. For centuries, people have used its roots to treat depression, anxiety, and sleep issues. The root is available in three forms – tablets, tincture, and tea. Up until now, studies demonstrated that it alleviates depression and stress. But the safety factor is questionable in terms of the following groups of people:

• Nursing mothers

• Pregnant women

• Children below three years

One must not blend it with sedatives or alcohol; else, its effects might become dangerous.

Chamomile

Chamomile has garnered universal popularity as a flowering herb similar to daisy in terms of its appearance. Medicinally, two chamomile forms are extremely useful – German chamomile and Roman chamomile. You can consume it in various forms like tea, tinctures, capsules, and liquid extracts. Consume either 1-4 cups of chamomile tea or 1-3 ml of extracts thrice every day to get rid of stress. If you are consuming a tincture, then have 15 ml 4 times daily, and if capsules, then 400-1600 mg every day. If you take any medication, always consult your doctor before opting for this herbal treatment.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha belongs to the group of herbs termed adaptogens and affects hormones and systems in the body regulating the stress response of an individual. With its historical roots in Ayurveda, this herb has compounds acyl steryl glucosides and sitoindosides that calm your brain, reduce the level of cortisol (stress hormone), lower blood pressure, alter your immune system and reduce swelling. The recommended dosage of ashwagandha for reducing cortisol is 125 mg - 5 gm for 1 to 3 months, while for anxiety, you can consume about 500 mg of this herb for 6 to 12 weeks every day. 

Kava Kava

Kava kava happens to be a shrub native to islands of the Pacific Ocean. People use kava in ceremonial beverages to alter mood and alleviate stress. It contains a compound called kava pyrones that can calm your brain and relax the muscles. One must take kava herbal treatments only after consulting a medical professional. Consuming it for three months continuously is generally safe, but overconsumption of kava can result in liver injury. In addition, make sure to never have it along with alcohol. 

Passionflower

Passiflora or passionflower is a family of plants having over 550 species. Studies have shown that some species might effectively treat nervousness, anxiety, ADHD, and restlessness when consumed orally. Studies have shown that it can help you relieve surgery stress if consumed 30-90 minutes earlier than the stipulated time. 

Passionflower can soothe the stomach, and research has showed promising results for treating ulcers. To use it, you can add the dried passionflower to boiling water. Make herbal tea out of it and drink for a week. For eight weeks, you can have it continuously to see the results.

Takeaways

While the above seven herbs effectively alleviate anxiety and stress, there are more choices available today. For example, Tulsi can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress; It enhances the activity and level of antioxidants, thereby interacting with free radicals and fighting adverse effects. Next, Brahmi includes potent antioxidant properties. It increases serotonin levels, which is a brain chemical that promotes relaxation and helps you cope with stress. In a nutshell, herbal treatments are highly regarded in the medicinal world today and is largely broadening its significance amongst individuals.

Losing weight can be a challenge for many people. Sometimes, it seems like no matter what you do, the pounds just don't want to budge. If this is something you are struggling with, you may be wondering why it is so difficult to lose weight. This blog post will discuss four possible reasons you may be struggling to lose weight.

No.1

You're not eating enough protein

Protein is an essential nutrient for weight loss. It helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied, so you are less likely to overeat. If you are not eating enough protein, your body will start to break down muscle for energy, which can lead to weight gain.

Protein can be found in a variety of food sources, including meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, lentils, and nuts. Aim for at least 0.36 grams of protein per pound of body weight (or about 55 grams per day for a 155-pound person). If you're struggling to get enough protein in your diet, consider adding a protein supplement or powder to your meals.

No.2

You're running low on Vitamins D and B12

Vitamins D and B12 play an essential role in metabolism, which can affect weight loss. For example, vitamin D helps the body to absorb calcium, while vitamin B12 is involved in energy production. Therefore, a deficiency in either of these vitamins can lead to weight gain and is also one of the leading signs that someone is vitamin D deficient.

You can get vitamin D from exposure to sunlight, as well as from certain foods like eggs, fatty fish, and mushrooms. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in animal products such as meat, poultry, and fish. If you are a vegan, nutritional yeast, tempeh, and seaweed are great alternatives. If you don't eat enough of these foods, you may need to take a supplement.

No.3

You're not getting enough sleep

Sleep is crucial for weight loss. When you don't get enough sleep, your body produces more of the hormone cortisol. This hormone can increase appetite and lead to weight gain. A lack of sleep can also make you feel exhausted, so you are less likely to exercise.

Try to get at least seven hours of sleep each night. If you have trouble sleeping, try some relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation before bedtime. Additionally, avoid using electronic devices in the bedroom and create a dark and quiet environment to promote better sleep.

No.4

You're under a lot of stress

Stress can also lead to weight gain. When you're stressed, your body also produces more of the hormone cortisol. This hormone can increase appetite and lead to cravings for unhealthy foods. Try to find ways to reduce stress in your life, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time outdoors. You may also want to consider talking to a therapist if your stress is overwhelming.

No.5

You’re not staying physically active

Staying physically active is an easy and effective way to ensure that we are expelling the necessary calories, getting the necessary cardio exercise, and keeping our bodies functioning properly so that we are able to maintain optimal health. If we are not maintaining balance in our bodies, we are sure to experience the resulting symptoms of deficiency, which come in the form of disease. We have this misunderstanding that exercise is for some people, not all, and that we need a fancy gym in order to be effective. That is completely false. You can find any activity you enjoy and exercise anywhere you desire. It all comes down to relearning false programming and taking accountability for our physical health. After all, it is our body, and we need to be in charge and honest about our habits so that we can make the necessary changes to improve.

Takeaways

If you are struggling to lose weight, there could be many reasons why. Evaluate your health in terms of what you know about yourself and your habits. Take inventory and apply the changes you see need to happen. Make small but actionable lifestyle changes such as regular excercise, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress. With a little intention, you should be on your way to reaching your weight loss goals.

In celebration of Earth Day 2020, I decided to put together my personal list of tips for year-round sustainable living. These are habits that I either practice or strive to practice. I think that every small effort counts, and with the current state of our world facing COVID-19, it has never been more apparent of how much influence we each have on our earth as a whole. We all can affect change, and it starts in our homes.

Tip 1

Reuse & repurpose

It’s so easy to build a collection of mason jars and glassware simply by not throwing them out after you have used their contents. I save almost every glass jar and bottle and use them mainly as drinking glasses, but I have also used them as food storage as well. For instance, some coffee brands come in cute glass jars with plastic lids. I use these to store things like sugar, chia seeds, and tea. You can also repurpose candle jars in the same way. They usually come with pretty lids, so I tend to always buy candles with that in mind. This is also a good thing to apply to any product packaging you buy. Look for product packaging that you can reuse and repurpose, and you will have gotten more of your money’s worth.

Tip 2

Only buy what you need

This tip applies to everything that you buy. We tend to have more than we need—and that applies to everything from food to clothing. My philosophy is that if I buy only what I need, I can fully use those resources for their entire lifetime value. You will find that the overall lifetime cost of items decrease because you will use things more frequently and not waste money on the same items. This takes a lot of discipline because who doesn’t love variety? However, you will find that you are more intentional with the things you do buy and will only buy things with quality in mind versus quantity.

Tip 3

Forage & thrift

There are so many marketplaces today where you can find quality items for less. Instead of buying things brand new, consider looking for used items. Items like furniture are good items to thrift because they usually last longer, so you can find them in great condition and still get the look you are going for. I love thrifting because I can usually find anything I want. It just takes time, but I have found that the pieces that I want always pop up at the perfect time.

As far as clothing is concerned, I haven’t really explored this area that much because I just don’t have the patience for clothes shopping, but I admire when others do it. There are so many great stores like Savers where you can find brand name clothing in really good condition. There are also consignment stores that carry new/gently used items for a fraction of the cost. It’s amazing at how many options there actually are.

Tip 4

Limit buying commercial household cleaners

Household cleaners typically have a lot of chemicals and health hazards, so I tend to stick to one household cleaner that is multi-purpose and also a more natural alternative. Of course we’re all currently frantic about sanitizing everything in sight these days, but there are always natural alternatives. I typically use and keep on-hand the following natural disinfectants and cleaners: Alcohol, benzoyl peroxide, tea tree oil, oil of oregano, lavender, and lemon essential oil. They are safer for the environment and safer for the boys and I. For my all-purpose cleaner, I use Mrs. Meyer’s, and then I add some of the other natural ingredients to the mix. I don’t like using harsh chemicals, but recently I have felt the pressure to up the ante by using Clorox bleach. I have a little bit of anxiety about using it because I vowed not to all these years, but I’m just taking that extra measure, at least for now.

Tip 5

Be conscious about consumerism

We are so pressured to buy things that it takes some real effort and discipline to say NO! It’s okay to not fall for the constant year-round holiday marketing messages. We are literally bombarded with it everywhere, and it can get so exhausting with trying to keep up with it all that I just said to the F with it—I’m not participating anymore. My motto is, I’ll buy it if and when I need it, and only if I can get it for less than MSRP (most of the time). I wait on larger purchases, and I make sure to always save on anything else. Saving money for me is a lifestyle, so I feel accomplished when I can do so while still granting my needs.

Tip 6

Eat at home

Home-cooked meals not only save money, but they save on gas, packaging, waste, and an endless need for a supply chain that goes far beyond the table. It’s not only healthier, but better for living sustainably because the whole purpose is to live within our means and to maintain a certain way of life that is better for us and the environment. If we are always eating out, we are giving in to that consumerism-mindset that controls a lot of our purchases. Now, of course ya girl loves to eat out, but I do limit it, and I actually have a greater appreciation for it when I do.

Tip 7

Be mindful of how you use/waste resources

Building an awareness of what we use and how much of it we use is important throughout our daily lives. Sometimes things can get so excessive and we can be wasteful of things that can be used more sparingly to extend its life. Instead of buying things with a one-time use, consider buying items that you can use for years. Here are a few products with that in mind:

A little can go a long way when deciding to purchase sustainable products. You’ll be investing in things that will last you years upon years and that is worth every penny. @kieramosswellness_

• Glass Straws - These are an essential that come in various other materials, but glass is my personal favorite because they’re clear and you can ensure they are clean with each use.

• Beeswax Food Wraps - Instead of plastic wrap, use these sustainable covers free of chemicals that last for up to a year. They also come in fun designs!

• Glass Food Storage with Wood Lids - Instead of purchasing plastic tupperware, consider glass and wood options that don’t leach chemicals.

• Reusable Bamboo Paper Towels - Paper towels are a thing of the past for me, as I do not purchase them. However, these are a great sustainable option.

• Bamboo Utensils - Take this wherever you go and reduce your dependance on plasticware. They’re also cuter anyway!

• Reusable Cotton Rounds/Makeup Remover Pads - Cotton rounds, cotton pads, and makeup remover wipes all add up over time, so these are an essential that will save you so much money and so much waste.

• Cotton & Bamboo Ear Swabs - We don’t really think about it, but traditional ear swabs are sometimes made with plastic. Try choosing a more biodegradable option if you must use disposable products.

• Bamboo Toothbrush - This is another product that is typically made with plastic, so switching to bamboo will ensure that once it hits the landfill, it is biodegradable.

• Mesh & Muslin Produce Bags - Plastic can accumulate quickly when packing up produce, so these will come in handy for every grocery trip and for storing food at home.

• Wool Dryer Balls - I have stopped using dryer sheets long ago, but these are a great alternative if you do wish to use them. Avoid the harmful chemicals in fabric softener and dryer sheets by using these instead.

• Walnut Scouring Pads - I really love these and find that they last very long. They actually naturally degrade with use, so I thought that was cool.

There are so many other biodegradable, reusable, and eco-friendly options to reduce our waste, but just trying your best is enough, so don’t feel pressured to go all in with every single one of these. I sure am not perfect, but I love that there are so many options available.

Tip 8

Appreciate nature

Sometimes it is so easy to get caught up in this technology-driven life that we live that we can forget our dependence on the earth—and oftentimes take it for granted. We must realize that we are a part of this ecosystem, not apart from it. We can not exist apart from it, so we need to find more ways to nurture that relationship so that we can have a stronger connection with our earth again. If we do, we will not want to harm our planet and we will do whatever we can to protect it. We need to educate ourselves about the things impacting our world and build that awareness because we have become so distant from our source. I love to watch Liziqi on Youtube because she inspires me to connect with nature and reminds me that nature is life. I aspire to live a life like hers—simple and guided by my passions and reliance on the earth.

Do your best

Perfection is not a thing, so I always tell myself to do my best in every area. One small step is better than nothing, so just keep taking them. Coming to a place where you feel rewarded by your small actions will bring you joy over time, and you will chase that feeling and create more of those habits. Always think beyond today and what ripple effects your actions will cause in the future. If you can foresee the small things leading up to big things, your actions will most definitely change. You will have a sense of responsibility that only you can hold yourself to. But as a whole, we each encourage and inspire each other, so our impact goes beyond our homes and into the homes of our friends and family. So, you see, our reach can be so far if we just do our best.

Hello Lovely Living presents curated products for the mindful and intentional woman. If you buy something through some of our links, Hello Lovely Living may earn an affiliate commission.

Oftentimes, our creative minds can feel overwhelmed. We live in a digital world surrounded by stimuli, and our minds have gotten used to operating at top speed, often making it difficult to process information at the rate at which it is being created. Our thoughts can race at a hundred miles an hour, and creative ideas can get lost amongst the chatter, so how can you make sure to capture moments of innovation and visualize your ideas to give you some much needed mental clarity? 

No. 1

Carry a small notebook with you to capture your thoughts

Creativity and moments of genius can strike at any moment—on the bus, over a coffee, while you’re in the supermarket or sitting at your desk answering emails. Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you’ll remember these ideas later, write them down straight away and then revisit them when you have time to properly consider them and give them the attention they deserve. The easiest way to make sure you’re always prepared to take note of any inspiration is to carry a small notebook with you in your pocket or handbag or to install a note-taking App that can be easily accessed on your phone. Whether you choose to write your notes down or type them into your phone will largely depend on what kind of person you are. Some people find that the action of writing something down can help to solidify it in their brain, whereas others find that they are more efficient using a digital device. Most phones have note-style Apps built-in, but be sure to put the shortcut on your home screen to make it easy to access on-the-go.

No. 2

Write to-do lists to stay focused

With so many things on our minds and new stimuli coming in every second, it can be all to easy to forget our everyday tasks and live in a perpetual sense of catch-up. Make room in your brain for creativity and new ideas by writing down your daily to-do list. This will not only free up your mental space for moments of inspiration, but it will also ensure that you don’t keep missing important deadlines and dates or letting daily chores rack up. Along with a to-do list, another great tool to make use of is a calendar, whether that be on your phone or combined with your to-do list. Calendars are lifesavers for people from all walks of life, and the best way to store important dates and set reminders for events or deadlines, which you may otherwise forget.

No. 3

Make use of mind maps to visually organize information

Freeing up your mental space for new ideas and creativity is all well and good, but how can you expand on those ideas and make sure you efficiently and effectively digest them when they arise? The answer is through the use of mind maps. Mind maps are diagrams that can help to organize information and show relationships between ideas or concepts. One of the most common types of mind maps is the spider diagram, but mind maps come in all shapes and sizes depending on the type of information you are trying to display and the relationship between its parts. Because of the sheer volume of ways in which information can be displayed in a mind map, they can seem a little daunting, so check out this article if you want to find out how to get started creating one for yourself - https://setapp.com/how-to/how-to-create-a-mind-map.

No. 4

Slow your mind down

The speed at which our minds are working, and the sheer volume of stimulus they need to work through in a day, can make it hard to capture our thoughts and visualize our ideas, so it’s important to find ways to help our minds slow down and focus on what matters. Mindfulness and meditation are two of the things that people tend to turn to when slowing their minds down. Mindfulness is the practice of living in the present, switching off thoughts about the past and future, and connecting with the hear and now and often revolves around a connection with your breath. Meditation can sometimes incorporate mindfulness and involves the practice of achieving mental clarity by focusing the mind on a particular object or activity, such as your breathing when practicing mindfulness.

No. 5

Practice visualization techniques

Although mind maps are a kind of visualization, you can also practice visualization without a diagram through the practice of visualization techniques. In essence, visualization is like creating a mind map in your mind; you may picture a scene, object or idea, and then explore it mentally in the same way as you would on paper. Alternatively, visualization can also be used in collaboration with meditation in order to allow your thoughts to organically do what comes naturally. These visualizations that occur during mediation are a great way to gain insight into your brain as they are not constructed and instead occur through their own merit.  

Having a baby is one of the most incredible things you’ll ever do. Bringing new life into the world is nothing short of a miracle when you think about it. If you’re lucky enough to have a child and start a family, then of course, they will become your top priority, but as a result of this, it’s quite easy to lose yourself a little. You can still be an excellent parent while still maintaining and holding onto your own identity, and in fact it’s healthy to do so. If you’re loving parenthood but have been left wondering who you are recently beyond being a mother and partner, here’s how you can find ‘you’ again.

Think about your appearance

As a busy mother running around after children and/or tending to a baby, chances are the way you look is right down at the bottom of your priority list, which is fair enough. When you’re tired or short on time, making yourself look nice is definitely a step you can skip.

However, you don’t have to give up completely on your appearance. If you go about things in the right way, you’ll feel much more fresh and presentable, which can help greatly with self-esteem.

Visit a salon and have a cut and color that will be long-lasting and easy to maintain. Choosing a color close to your natural hair color and that works with your hair texture, means you’ll be able to style it in a minute or two each morning.

Come up with a ‘two-minute makeup routine’. This could involve a quick buffing of foundation and a swipe of mascara, but these small things can make a huge difference.

Buy yourself some clothes that are comfy and practical while still looking good. A jersey dress with a pair of leggings, flat shoes, and a cardigan will look far more put together than loungewear or tracksuit bottoms.

If you’re unhappy with your physique, then incorporating more exercise is a smart move and will boost your mental health, too. Find a gym that has a daycare, or just go on long walks with your baby.

"Although you need to wait until you’re feeling better or around six weeks postpartum. Talk to your OB-GYN about your options because exercise can also help you regain muscle tone and boost circulation,” comments Osmara Aryal, Chief Editor of motherhoodcommunity, on this topic.

If you know you don’t want any more children, you could even consider a tummy tuck to restore your stomach to its pre-baby condition, check out tummy tuck videos online to see if something like this would work for you. 

Take up some hobbies

You probably don’t get much time at all as a busy parent, but if you do find you ever get a free hour or two in the week, then why not fill it with a hobby? Hobbies from home include blogging, crafts, gardening, and baking and are things you can pick up at the drop of a hat without having to make plans to leave the house. Once you have all of the initial materials, it’s something you can do whenever you like—on the rare occasion you get some time to yourself. Hobbies help to build skills and boost confidence. You can find like-minded people online to chat with about your hobby and get tips, which is a great way to make new friends too.

See friends

Sometimes, a bit of company and conversation from another adult is all the therapy you need. When you’ve been dealing with screaming kids all day and the only person talking back to you is a babbling baby, it can leave you craving some adult interaction! Seeing friends is a chance to chat, to laugh, to talk through your worries and gain another perspective. Invite friends over to your home, arrange playdates with other parent friends and meet up with your loved ones as regularly as you can. It helps you to maintain a sense of who you are. Sure, you won’t be out drinking with friends or probably enjoying fancy brunches anymore, but walking around the park together, having a picnic with the kids, catching up at a coffee shop or going for a meal, are all chances to get out of the house and enjoy the company of the people in your life. 

Becoming a landlord can both be both challenging and fulfilling. It’s a great way to build passive income. However, you do need to brace yourself for the workload that it entails. Nevertheless, your efforts will be fruitfully rewarded if managed properly. If you have decided to embark on this journey, here is a guide on how to become a landlord.

In becoming a landlord, you actually have the option of enlisting the services of a property management company or managing all the day to day tasks of a landlord yourself. You also need to enlist the services of a real estate lawyer to be aware of the potential issues you may encounter as a landlord. Nevertheless, to become a landlord, you must be prepared to handle several tasks.

Finding the right tenants

In order to become a landlord, you need to have tenants occupy your property. This may entail the need for you to advertise to reach your target market. You can leverage several online platforms in order to do so because this is considered the most cost-effective form of advertisement. You also need to be sociable because you will need to showcase your property to potential tenants. This is the stage where you have the opportunity to shortlist suitable tenants for your property.

Completing legal agreements

In becoming a landlord, you must familiarize yourself with certain legal issues that revolve around the real estate industry, particularly those that involve tenancy. Apart from a rental agreement, insuring your property is also a necessity and a task completed by the landlord. Whether you are renting out a residential or a commercial property, having it insured saves you the risk of shelling out a hefty sum due to unfortunate circumstances.

In a similar manner, whether you have a tenant or not, your property should still be covered by an appropriate insurance. Unoccupied property insurance is especially necessary for properties that are left vacant for more than a month because a standard insurance policy may be insufficient. This is because unoccupied properties may come with a bigger risk of attracting unwanted visitors.

Collecting payments and enforcing rules

And of course, the most important task of a landlord is collecting the deposits and rent of their tenants. As part of this, keeping a record of all the payments for this will be greatly beneficial when you pay off taxes and even in claiming for tax deductions. Aside from this, to become a landlord, you must already have a set of rules that you wish to enforce upon the tenants in your property. Several seasoned landlords divulge that the secret to their success is enforcing the rules rigidly, regardless of who is occupying the property. This makes it fair for all your current tenants. However, you must be cautious with your actions to avoid being labeled as discriminating.

To wrap things up, becoming a landlord entails a huge responsibility. While it can be rewarding, it can also be challenging. If you know that you have the qualities to become a landlord, go on and delve into the business, for in it, you may find success.

With winter approaching, it is the perfect time to talk about focusing on positive energy. With the cold weather and darker evenings, it is common to start to feel the winter blues. Feelings of lethargy and general low mood begin to creep in, and it is all too easy to let this affect your ability to enjoy life to its fullest. Not only that, but if you are experiencing a major change in your life where the outlook isn’t currently looking too great, it can be a lot harder to maintain your positivity. With that in mind, here are a few things you can do to help restore the hope you thought was lost.

Reconnect with Nature

Nature is good for the body and soul. As humans, we have always found nature to be a place of healing and personal growth. Studies have shown that evolution may explain why we often feel the need to be in a natural environment, and these same studies have also shown that reconnecting with nature has benefits for our social, emotional, and psychological life. Even the simple act of viewing pictures of natural environments can help bring about positive thoughts, so step out of your office, ditch the car, and take a walk through the local park.

Use the Power of Prayer

The best way to alleviate feelings of stress and negativity is to find meaning in it. Whether this is through prayer or meditation, the best thing you can do is focus on the divine support system that surrounds you. Understanding quantum healing is something else you can consider to help you connect with the energy of your mind, remove the block that is causing these feelings of negativity, and find your healing path.

Listen to Music

Countless studies have shown that listening to music can have an impact on your mood. However, whereas most people try to choose something more upbeat, assuming this will help them feel better, research has shown that listening to sad music can help too. This is because the sad music can feel almost like a sympathetic ear when you don’t have anyone to talk to that truly understands what you are going through. This is one of the easiest tips you can use to help invite in positive energy; simply stop what you are doing and put on your favorite sad song.

Ask for Help

When your life doesn’t seem to be heading in the right direction, don’t assume that you are alone in your struggles. Reach out to your support system, including friends, family and even neighbors. Some of them may want to lend a helping hand but simply don’t know how to go about offering it. Ask for their help, advice, and guidance, and it may be just what you needed to put you back on the right path. Even if you feel you don’t have any friends or family close by to reach out to, there are plenty of other support systems out there that you can make use of, such as online mental health forums and community gatherings in your local area.

Make a Fresh Start

This may sound a little drastic, but if you have tried everything and nothing seems to be helping, it may be that you need a change of surroundings. If where you currently live brings about bad memories and feelings of negativity, those are unlikely to go away. A fresh start when everything currently feels bleak can help you heal much faster. If it is not possible to move houses, consider completely changing your interior and adding in positivity-inducing elements such as plants, light, and different textures. 

Hopefully, this list has given you some ideas of what to do when your life isn’t going according to plan. Just remember, you will reach the other side.

Many people turn to personal loans to help consolidate debt, fund major purchases, buy a home, or to help a loved one receive much needed, yet costly medical care. 

While you can still fill out a loan application at your local bank, many consumers and potential borrowers are looking into the digital sphere to help make the process easier and faster. If you find yourself working multiple hours from home, freelancing as a graphic designer for example, while also caring for your kids, then applying for a loan online is an option for you. 

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You might be wondering what exactly it is you need to get through the application process swiftly and efficiently. The following should help give you an idea and set you on the right path.

When to Apply for a Personal Loan

Firstly, make sure that you absolutely need to take the plunge and apply for a personal loan in the first place. 

A personal loan is often reserved for cases in which you are in dire need of cash quickly. It basically works as a kind of credit offer that is considered for a more significant reason than just buying a new car or home. They also come in installments, which means that if you are approved by the lender, you will receive a sum of money to help you in the short term, and you will need to repay the amount within a certain timeframe as indicated by the lender. 

Since personal loans are often unsecured, you will face much higher interest rates. However, it is still better than endlessly charging your credit cards since that inevitably create more problems and may not solve the situation. Note that a personal loan often requires that you have a relatively decent credit score in order to gain approval. If your credit is too low, then you would need to look elsewhere for financing options, otherwise you would be faced with insanely high interest rates.

Documents to Keep Handy

You will need copies of your employment and income history, your bank account information, and the last few bank statements. You will also need a credit report, and of course, identification. 

Many people need a simple lending solution that is easily available and provides instant loan approval. Customers looking for this kind of gratification and relief look to the experts at https://instabank.fi/joustoluotto to find an easy and accessible answer right away, without beating around the bush. However, you still need the proper documents ready at your fingertips, so don’t dismiss this all-important step.

Research the Rates

Just because the application process is easier doesn’t mean that you should ignore the hidden fees involved. Despite the fact that applying for a loan online is easier and you receive a confirming message straight away, you will likely pay a higher interest rate in the end. Make sure that you choose the right service for you. Since applying for a personal loan is similar to applying to obtain a credit card, there’s little documentation, and you often don’t know how much interest you’ll pay until it is too late.

Compare Rates

To boost your chances of getting approved for a personal loan, make sure you not only have your paperwork prepared but also research the documents at length. For instance, read up on your credit report and see if you can spot any errors and correct them by notifying the credit reporting agency to let them know exactly what is wrong with the information. A low credit score can make or break your personal loan application, so this isn’t the area to mentally check out on. 

Also, keep your tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements handy so that they are easily accessible throughout the process in case you are asked more detailed questions. You might need to refer to them at any moment, and a slight mistake can derail your entire process.

While applying for a personal loan is a lot of work and takes a certain leap of faith, it does eventually lead to a source of financial gain if you play your cards right. Research as much as you can and always be prepared. Just because you can get this done online doesn’t mean that you should cut corners. Applying for a personal loan—even if it’s not for an obscene amount of money—is one of the most critical decisions you can make in your lifetime, so be careful, and be diligent. 

The process of probate consists of carrying out and distributing the assets of a deceased person to the heirs mentioned in the will. Probate delay is an extremely stressful period where the delays can be caused due to reasons uncontrollable to the executors. The delay can go on for years. Simply put, the process is a long one—from filing petitions, to paying taxes, and filing claims. Even though there are several causes for delays, a few measures can be taken to get past them.

First, let’s take a look at what might be causing these delays:

Issues with will or improper filing of paperwork

Problems with the writing of the will can cause an issue, such as the validity, confusion regarding the valid executor, ambiguous signatures, or improper witness records. This makes the process slow, especially when it is a home-written will, and can lead to misinterpretation. Also, improper filing of paperwork will require you to start a few steps all over again, resulting in more delays.

Inheritance tax or large estates

IHT, also known as Inheritance Tax, needs to be paid when assets are valued to be more than a certain amount. Depending on your country, this amount will vary. If the will specifies estates or assets valued at more than the threshold, the process becomes complicated and leads to further delays.

Multiple Beneficiaries

If the will consists of more than 1 or 2 beneficiaries, chances are higher for the process to be stalled. This happens due to miscommunication amongst the beneficiaries, difficulty contacting them, unwillingness to respect the process of documentation, or lack of proper documentation.

Tracing of next heir or deceased executor

According to the Chain of Representation, if the executor passes away before the will is granted, a new executor needs to be appointed in order to carry the process forward. In the case that the executor is deceased and there is no will written, tracing of the heir is necessary. It is not a major issue if the heir is the spouse or the children, but in the case of relatives, a lot of documentation and paperwork is required.

Now that you are aware of the causes of delays, here are some solutions:

Get a heir cash advance

If there is a delay with the probate process, you can still inherit some part of the money from a grant. A few legitimate companies can offer you heir loan funding, wherein they buy a part of your estate and pay you the same amount while the process is on hold. There is no need to pay interest, and you can use the money as your own.

Have proper documentation

To save you time, make sure you have sufficient time to prepare the required documentation for inheritance. You also need to be aware of the executors and the validity of the will.

Seek professional advice

With complex estates and intricate Inheritance Tax, it is necessary that you seek professional advice, especially when the assets are located overseas.

Grants and will entail complex processes in the legal world, and it can take up to 5 to 10 years in the worst cases due to the above-mentioned reasons. Being attentive and acquiring more information is crucial. As always, when in doubt, make sure to seek professional advice.

Going out for a few drinks occasionally with your friends is great, but if you start craving alcohol frequently, it is a major sign of concern. Some people who are already addicted to alcohol refuse to admit that they are, and this can make it even more difficult for them to overcome the addiction. The first step to recovering is always confrontation. You should be completely honest with yourself and admit if you are well on your way to becoming an alcoholic or not.

The drinking standard per day stands at 4 drinks per day or 14 drinks per week for men, and for women, 3 drinks per day or 7 drinks per week. The standard drink consists of 5 oz wine, 1.5 oz spirits, and 12 oz beer. If you drink more than this on a regular basis, you will risk becoming an alcoholic.

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If so, self-realization and quitting alcohol is absolutely necessary. In the end, the long term health benefits of not drinking alcohol are numerous. Quitting will help you and your body in multiple ways, such as less damage to your already overused liver, saving a lot of money that you spend on drinks, using your time in productive work instead of wasting it drinking in bars or at home, losing weight, having a clearer mind and a stronger immune system, sleeping better, and emotional stability. The list is endless.

If you are ready to start overcoming your alcohol addiction, here are a few steps to begin with.

Set Goals and a Schedule

This is a tiny but important step in overcoming your addiction. Plan to slowly reduce your drinks day by day, and finally plan a ‘quit day’, which you can decide according to your level of addiction. You can start slowly and reduce one drink each day, finally reaching the point where you quit completely. This will also allow your body to adapt to the change and reduce withdrawal symptoms, which can otherwise have adverse effects on your body and mind. You can also tell your friends and family that you quit, which will ultimately give you more motivation not to drink because you will be held accountable for your actions.

Remove alcohol from your home and office

When you have alcohol in front of you, you will surely be tempted. But you can face this issue proactively by removing all alcohol and anything that reminds you of it from your home and office. It’s as the saying goes, “out of sight, out of mind.” 

Keep a Diary

When you start or restart drinking alcohol, you need to keep a diary, especially when you know that you are addicted to drinking or if you are a heavy drinker. Maintaining a diary can keep you honest with yourself and can help you keep track of the amount of alcohol you consumed per day and per week. Start by recording for at least 3 or 4 weeks and keep this as a habit thereafter. You can also write down and reflect upon the positive results of your changed habits daily. When you see for yourself the amount of heavy drinking you were subjected to, you tend to reduce or completely quit drinking alcohol. 

Detoxify your body

Detoxification of your body can be performed as a one-week course in either a therapy center or a hospital. Not only is this method helpful in overcoming your addiction, but it also helps in purifying your body by removing all toxins and harmful substances from within. This can also take place in a rehabilitation center, helping to clear your mind.

Join self-help groups

If you think that trying all tactics on your own is not working, you can ask for professional help or join self-help groups. Reaching out to them can give you some support to overcome alcohol addiction much more quickly. These groups might include people who have overcome alcohol addiction themselves and thus can provide personal experiences and tips that work. You can sense hope in overcoming your addiction when you meet these people who were in your shoes once, and moreover, they will not judge you.

Join a rehabilitation program

Rehabilitation is often perceived as a negative thing for people who live in denial and do not accept that they have a problem. It is when it hits an extreme, and nothing helps, that they reach out for help through rehab or their loved ones do. You can choose from a wide range of rehab programs such as inpatient, outpatient, evening sessions, and more. You can also choose the number of days you want to undergo rehabilitation, ranging from 30, 60, to 90 days. Rehabilitation has helped millions of addicts to overcome their problems by teaching them to handle their cravings, managing their anger and stress, and also teaching techniques if they are bound to relapse. You can check online for various rehab programs.

Seek medical intervention

If nothing seems to help, you can visit a physician to receive prescriptions for proper medication for overcoming your alcohol addiction. The three most common drugs that are used to fight alcohol addiction are disulfiram (makes you sick and nauseous when consumed with alcohol), acamprostate (restores brain chemical balance and helps to control cravings), and naltrexone (does not allow you to enjoy the drinking experience by not inducing the feel-good sensations). Your physician will prescribe you the appropriate drugs depending on your addiction and whether you have higher chances of relapsing.

Quitting alcohol is not child’s play, especially after getting all the shakes, brain fog, and confusion after not drinking for a day or two. If you are in the beginning stages of addiction, it is much easier for you to treat it and quit, but it is extremely difficult in the later stages, although not impossible. You should keep in mind that not only are you affected by the consequences of alcohol addiction, but your friends and family suffer too. Just make yourself more aware, educate yourself, and believe in yourself to overcome this hurdle to come out clean. Patience is the key, and those who did not give up are now completely sober.