Author: Christina Moore

Keeping up in this ever-evolving world is hard work and constant but it shouldn’t deprive us from channelling our inner selves. Making time for oneself is just as important as making time for others and it doesn’t always have to take up a lot of time. Sometimes we just need to be more aware of what we are doing by taking in and appreciating the small things in life. It is amazing how much calmer and at ease I feel by following these six simple steps to reconnect with my inner spirit.  

1. Yoga, Pilates and Stretches 

I’m not saying attempt all three, if you want to then that is also not a problem, but by mixing up my exercise routine to incorporate one of these classes once a week I find that I can carry out the movements to calm me down when I need it most. For example, sometimes after a stressful day at work, I don’t always feel like attending a class but I need some me time, so, I take just 5 minutes in the bedroom and practice some simple stretch routines that I have learnt in class. I know afterwards I feel less tense and like a weight has been lifted. Why not try some moves found here.

2. Go outside

Being surrounded by natural light, noises and views can really help me reconnect. If I have the time I will go for a luscious walk somewhere wooded and quiet, but sometimes just getting out and going for a stroll around the village does the same job. Take the time to take in your surroundings, appreciating that the world we live in is beautiful.

3. Change your thought pattern

We all get stuck in a rut sometimes with the way we think and feel about certain situations we find ourselves in and sometimes we don’t truly open up to others. So why not challenge your own thought process yourself, in the privacy of your own home and see how a simple change in thought pattern can have affect. I find tarot reading especially helpful when it comes to my mind-set, why not give it a go for free here.

4. Meditate

Meditation is the best practice for clearing ones head from daily life. Find the time in the morning or evening but make it daily routine. After mediation I feel ready to take on the world at my pace, taking in the little things that make me feel joyful throughout the day. I find meditation balances my thought process and leads me to be more emotionally stable. A great app I use for mediating is called Headspace, check it out.

5. Disconnect from social  media

Maybe not saying forever but the length of time is ultimately up to oneself. I’ve disconnected myself from Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for several months now and I have really found that I achieve things for myself rather than for other people’s value, likes and comments. This adds my own value to my day, no matter how big or small the achievement, it is for myself and I don’t feel the need to constantly impress others with a flow of amazing pictures and statuses. Taking myself away from social media has allowed me to focus on my needs, goals and way of life.

6. Make time for family

What better way to channel your inner spirit than to make the time to surround yourself with those who are apart of us. Sometimes being with family grounds me again and confirms who I am, where I’ve come from, my morals and beliefs. It is easy to forget these values when bogged down in the fast pace of life.

As you can see these simple steps are nothing huge, they are small life changes you can make to help reconnect with your inner spirit on a daily basis. Soon they will just become a part of daily life and you will wonder how you coped before.

In a long-term relationship, it’s easy to lose the allure of romance and butterflies that you had when you first started dating. Now that I’ve been dating the same guy for over two years, I know how it goes: at first, you’re so crazy about each other that you’re willing to do anything to see each other. Then, once you start to get comfortable, you start slacking on the romance and tend to fall into a routine.

That’s why it’s so important to shake things up with a romantic date night every once in a while, especially in a long-term relationship! The problem? A wild night of romance can get pretty darn expensive if you don’t plan ahead. That’s why I’m bringing you seven super romantic date ideas you can enjoy no matter what your budget! These date ideas will help you rekindle the spark your relationship had at the beginning – without sending your wallet up in flames.

Date Night #1: Volunteer Together

For a date that’s not just free, but also gives back to the community in a heartwarming way, choose a cause you’re both passionate about and reach out to a local organization about a day of volunteering together. Stacking soup cans for the local food pantry, cleaning cages at the local animal shelter or reading to a child at the public library together can all build your sense of shared values and leave you feeling closer than ever before.

Date Night #2: Winter Wonderland 

No matter what the weather outside, you’ll love this winter wonderland-themed date as an excuse to bundle up in your coziest clothes! Local ice skating rinks don’t charge much for a night of fun – plus, what could be more romantic than snuggling close for warmth inside the chilly rink? For around $10 a person, you can rent a pair of skates and zip around the ring together until you’re the last ones there. Then, stop by your local coffee shop for a cup of hot cocoa you can share (only $3-5!) as you laugh at the silly memories of your romantic night together.

Date Night #3: Camping Under the Stars

As a couple, there’s no better way to get some alone time than venturing into the great outdoors! As far as a weekend getaway goes, a campground is probably your cheapest option for a romantic night in an exotic new destination. However, you can always enjoy camping from the privacy of your backyard to save an extra buck or two! Set up a tent, lay out some sleeping bags and use a small portable camping BBQ to cook a romantic meal together – or, if you’re lucky enough to have a fire pit, roast some marshmallows and fall asleep under the stars.

Date Night #4: Picnic in the Park

On a beautiful day, there’s no better way to enjoy the weather than a picnic in the park with someone you love. The best part of a picnic is that the preparation can be almost as fun as the event itself! Make a date of getting together and chopping veggies, slicing fruit and fixing sandwiches for your picnic. Then, pack them in a cute dollar store picnic basket with your favorite blanket and head over to your favorite nearby scenery to enjoy a delicious meal with an amazing view.

Date Night #5: Kids’ Night

Do you ever find yourself nostalgic to enjoy the things you used to love as a kid? Well, this is your chance to do just that – and with your partner to boot! For this date idea, head to the local dollar store to grab some fun kids’ toys and snacks. Some of my staples? Bubbles, crayons, fruit snacks and juice boxes. Then, invite your partner over for a night of childhood fun and put on your favorite cartoons from way back when. You’ll find yourselves laughing and bonding over the good old days in no time – all for less than $5!

Date Night #6: Mini Golf

Why go on another boring dinner and a movie date when you could play mini golf instead? One of me and my boyfriend’s favorite spots for date night is the mini golf course. We love the playful competition that comes with putting a few holes – and at $12 a person, you really can’t beat the price tag! I highly recommend taking your date to your favorite mini golf course. For a fun twist, you can even make a bet: the loser has to buy the winner ice cream! See? Aren’t you glad you didn’t go to that movie, after all?

Date Night #7: Historic Sightseeing 

If you live anywhere near a city, chances are you’re pretty close to some interesting historic sights you never even knew about. The best part? Many historic sights, especially national parks, tend to err on the side of free! It’s an amazing bonding experience getting to experience a new part of history together, without breaking the bank on a pricey class or expensive travel tickets!

We live in a society where we are constantly measured up against images of perfection. But if we spend time on our make-up, take a selfie here and there, or enjoy or own looks, we are labelled as vain. I’m here to tell you that you’re allowed to take pride in your looks. You’re allowed to take care over your appearance.

Put On Your Best Face

When you go out to face the world, it’s fine to feel like you want to look beautiful. Why shouldn’t you take time over your hair and make-up? Looking good is your prerogative. If you can draw eyebrows on fleek, highlight your cheeks like a pro, and get those perfect waved curls with a curling iron, go ahead and do it.

Take Those Selfies

Take as many selfies as you like! Take selfies with your friends and family and your loved ones. You know why? Because hardly anyone takes pictures of one another anymore. When it’s all about the selfie, if you aren’t taking them, you aren’t being recorded. So when you look great, take a snap – it’s the only source you will have for those family albums when you’re older and want to look back.

Wear What Makes You Feel Good

When you look good, you often feel good. So yes, sister, go ahead and put on those leopard-print boots. Wear your tight little black dress. Put on your favourite jewellery. Wear your special lingerie even if no one is going to see it. Because you deserve to feel good, and confident in yourself, and sexy.

Look After Your Skin

Have you ever been told that you are too vain for using facial creams or doing face masks? Guess what – the same people who judge you now are going to be the ones begging for your secret in 20 years when you look 10 years younger than they do. You only get one skin, and it’s yours for life, so what’s vain about looking after it?

Surgery Is Fine Too

If you don’t like something about yourself and it gets you down, you should change it. That’s a fact of life I’m going to stand behind. It doesn’t matter whether it’s an aspect of your personality, your haircut, an old tattoo, or those first wrinkles. One of my best friends got a face lift and the change I saw in her confidence was amazing, just make sure to do your research first on what you will be undergoing. Anyone who judges you for trying to be your best self clearly doesn’t have your mental health or self-esteem in mind.

Be Happy, No Matter What

While it’s great to look good, and it can give you a real mood boost, it’s not the be-all and end-all. You could be recovering from third-degree burns over your entire body and still be a beautiful person on the inside who has the power to be happy. Above everything, make yourself happy. One day you might lose your looks with age, but that doesn’t mean your life is over – because your appearance should be the icing on the cake of your beautiful soul.

If you’re accused of being vain, brush it off. It’s okay to want to look good. It’s okay to want to feel good. And if you can get some happiness from your appearance, then take it with both hands.

Stress can have big consequences on your health, your ability to sleep, and your mental health. It’s important that you clear your mind of stress whenever possible. Here are seven methods of getting rid of stress that will help you to cope.

Take Up A Martial Art

Martial arts are a great way to relieve stress and tension. Learning how to defend yourself will make you feel more confident and capable, and you can tackle your stress head-on with controlled fighting. Some martial arts encourage contact while others are all about learning the moves, so pick something that suits your temperament best. I personally loved taking up karate, in a class with other women so that I felt completely comfortable.

Exercise Regularly

Hitting the gym releases endorphins and helps you to clear stress from your shoulders. There’s also something about exercising until you need to rest that really clears your mind. Plus, getting your blood pumping could help you to live for longer.

Go For A Walk

When you are out walking, your brain can often process problems without you really being aware of it. You might find that a relaxing walk, or even a more taxing hike, will give you the answers that you need. If you’re like me and often get bored of the same walks use a walk planner like this one.

Practice Meditation

Meditation is literally the practice of clearing your mind, and it can work wonders to keep you calm. Once you push everything else aside and focus on your breathing for a while, you can learn to keep things in perspective. Is your current situation really important enough to stress out for?

Keep A Journal

Writing things down can be a way to work out stress and let go of it. You will always feel better after a journaling session, and you can even look back on your past writing to remember that nothing lasts forever. Things are also rarely as serious as they seem. I sometimes even laugh about the things I was worried about a year ago!

See A Therapist

Therapy isn’t just for those with severe problems – stress is enough to warrant a chat with a good therapist. Their job is to help you to work through your problems, alleviating the burden of the past and helping you to deal with daily life better. They can also help to put things in perspective and to help you find your way to the solutions that you need.

Talk To A Friend

If talking to a therapist sounds like too much, seek out a friend for a good chinwag instead. Talking through your problems is one of the easiest ways to make decisions and find solutions, even if the other person doesn’t have much input into the conversation. Sometimes, all you need is a good listener to help you get there. A friend can also reassure you, let you know that you’re not alone and that your reaction to the situation has been perfectly normal.

Don’t suffer from stress alone. I know first-hand that it can cause more damage than you think, so don’t let it get to that point. Clear your head regularly and you will feel so much better for it!

When people talk about improving their appearance, usually they don’t want to do something seriously drastic. After all, you still want to look like yourself – just a better version of yourself. I’ve been searching for ways to improve myself without turning myself into plastic, for example. Over the years, I’ve found that these methods of changing my appearance have really worked wonders to boost my confidence and create the look I want to have.

Temporary Extensions

Having extensions put into my hair was once of my favourite ways to change my look. Instead of going for a more permanent style, which takes longer to put in and may damage your own hair, I like to use temporary extensions. These can be put in and taken out in a matter of hours, so it’s just like any normal appointment to dye or restyle your hair. What I love to do is have long hair during the winter, then take out the extensions and have short hair when it’s hot during the summer. Instant glam and instant new hair whenever I want it.

Brow and Lash Tinting

If you want to go extreme, you can get permanent tattoos for your eyebrows to keep them filled in. You can even tattoo your eyeliner on! That’s a bit too much for me, but I do find it tedious to have to put on the same make-up every single day and take it off again at night, especially when there aren’t going to be any variations in the routine. I have my brows tinted in order to keep them a little more filled in. It’s a great solution and it’s only temporary, just like dying your hair would be. I can make the choice to keep it up or not each time. Lash tinting is the same for those who have fair eyelashes.

Chest Enhancements

When you talk about changing the appearance of your breasts, most people jump right to the thought of huge silicone implants that look more fitting on a glamour model. But it doesn’t actually have to be that drastic, or that cheap-sounding. I actually opted for a breast lift, which is like having implants without having to have the implants. This means it’s a lot safer, and it’s not so much of a dramatic change that people are going to be gossiping behind your back. It’s a difference that will make you feel better about your natural assets. Some sagging or movement is natural after having a child, so many women could benefit from getting this procedure done and boosting their own body confidence. Even if only your husband ever sees it, it’s a good investment!

Losing Weight

Finally, the biggest change in your appearance that you can ever do is losing weight and getting fit. Again, this is temporary, because you can stop whenever you like. But having less weight in your face in particular makes so much difference. My gym membership is probably the most important part of my beauty routine – fitness is beautiful – and many women opt for finding a good no gym workout.

When you want to change your appearance without being too drastic, these methods will really tick all of the boxes. It’s the perfect way to improve yourself without going to an extreme.

A recent voyage of self-discovery has led me to realise that there are some things that everyone owes to themselves. One of them is to be happy, and to make every effort possible to find happiness. In the past I was always told to be myself and not let others change me, but then I realised something important. When the change is for yourself, it’s worth it. Here are the changes I made, and that you should too.

Be More Positive

One of the biggest changes you can make in your life is to be more positive. I’ve always let worry hold me back – what if I won’t be good enough? What if things will go wrong? In many ways, I was also letting people around me keep me negative. They would say the same things to me. You can’t go and do that, because what if something happens? I would agree and stick to the status quo. But sometimes you have to think positive. Expect the best. Open your heart to new possibilities.

Make Yourself Pretty

People told me that I shouldn’t try to look good for others. But here’s the thing: when you don’t feel pretty, you don’t feel good about yourself. That’s why I now focus on feeling pretty for myself. I feel much better when my make-up is on point and I have a fresh haircut. I wear pretty lingerie even when no one will see it. I even took care of my nose, which had been bothering me since I was a child. Now I have a perfect nose and I feel good when I look in the mirror. You can’t put a price on that.

Choose Your Lifestyle

While older generations don’t really get it, millennials are starting to realise that you can live the lifestyle that you want. Whatever it may be, you have the power to choose it. I always wanted to work from home, but my parents were anxious about what would happen if I quit my job. I took the plunge and started my own business, and it took off. Now I’m happier, healthier, and less stressed than ever before.

Adjust Your Diet

Fad diets never work, and social pressure is never a good reason to lose weight or change what you eat. But feeling healthy and happy in yourself is really important. I changed my diet to reduce the amount of sugar and fat that I eat, and I feel amazing. I didn’t do it because a magazine told me to, or because all my friends were doing it. I did it because I noticed that I just felt lighter when I didn’t eat those ingredients. Most of us can tweak our diets to find a balance that works so much better, so give it a try – your body deserves it.

No matter what you do, always keep yourself as the top person in your mind. You deserve to be healthy and happy, and you should make the changes that you need in order to make that happen.

Dating is a lot of fun, but it can get fairly monotonous too. Whether you are just starting out on a new relationship, or trying to keep things fresh with your partner for life, dates don’t have to be the same old boring routine. You can spice them up with these 7 alternative ideas. I loved trying them with my now-husband, so take it from me: they work!

Split Your Dinner

Who says that dinner for two has to be traditional? Split your three course meal across  three restaurants for a fun approach to date night. Go to a bar for a snack as your starter. Head on to a fancy restaurant for a main course that will tick all of the right boxes. For dessert, why not go to an ice cream bar or a waffle café? And of course, my favourite idea is to finish the night with cocktails at a fourth venue.

Theme Park Fun

When was the last time you went to a theme park? It was probably a teenage birthday party, but you can do a lot better than that. A theme park is an excellent date location. There are plenty of thrills to enjoy together, as well as all the fun of the fair. And if it doesn’t work out, at least you’ve had a lot of bang for your buck. I think it’s also a great way to get to know someone’s personality!

Beer Festival 

If you would normally go out to the pub for a drink, then this is a fantastic way to shake things up. Beer festivals are a lot of fun, and a chance for you to get to know some great indie brands. There is usually live entertainment as well, so it’s not like you are going to get bored. I love spending all day at a festival and then coming home with a crate full of bargains to last for the next few weeks at home. There are lots of beer festivals to pick from all over the world so there’s no excuse!

Outdoor Cinema

Drive-in movies and outdoor cinema screens have always been a big stalwart of the silver screen. These retro fascinations are coming back into style, so take advantage by grabbing a pair of tickets. There’s nothing like watching a film under the stars, and it’s a really special experience to have together. Plus, there’s a lot more room and even privacy than a cramped cinema! If you always argue about what to watch, like us, then this is even more perfect, as there is normally only one choice.

Be a Tourist

Even if you have lived in your local area for a long time, there are probably things you haven’t seen or done that the average visitor would. Be a tourist for the day and try out something amazing together. Visit a museum, explore local ruins, or simply walk around with new eyes. You might be amazed by what you find right on your own doorstep.

Take a Class

This is the epitome of multi-tasking. Learn something new while you date! I personally tried a pasta-making class, which is great because now my husband and I can eat home-made pasta together all the time. But anything would do – why not try painting or clay pot making?

Do a Quiz

Finally, let’s hear it for the pub quiz. If you don’t know each other, be prepared for a crash course. The quickest way to find out someone’s tastes and interests is to find out what they know a lot about!

I heartily recommend all of these alternative dates. Take it from me – they’re a lot more fun than the average!

If you have an inner green girl, then you know the constant nagging worry that you are not doing enough for the environment. You might recycle as much as you can, cycle or walk instead of taking the car for long distances, and try not to waste water. But your inner green voice is still grumbling. How can you satisfy her? Try these tips to feel better about your contribution to the environment.

Grow Your Own Plants

We need green life to survive – that’s a fact. Trees and plants process oxygen and make it possible for us to breathe. They also help to maintain the structure of the earth, to hold back flooding, and to fight the effects of global warming. You probably can’t grow your own forest, but every little helps. Grow your own plants inside your home. You can put them on windowsills, balconies, patios, and out in your backyard if you have one. The more you grow, the more you contribute. It’s as simple as that. Plus, plants can really liven up the home and make it a fresher environment.

Use Renewable Energy

There are so many personal-sized solutions for renewable energy now that you don’t have any excuses for not trying them. Captain Green experts in solar panels Brisbane advise that the best and most common way to do this is by installing solar panels. If you own your home solar panels will not only help you and the planet to become greener but it will also help your pocket by helping you save on energy bills. There are so many more smaller and more personal-sized solutions for renewable energy now that you don’t have any excuses for not trying them.

Rather than plugging your phone in to charge it, get a solar charger – leave it on the windowsill whenever you’re not using it and it will always be ready to go. You can keep all of your devices topped up easily without using mains power. If you have a swimming pool, read this to discover how solar power can take care of the heating. Make sure to use energy-efficient bulbs for your lights, and look for better options wherever you can. You can even get solar-powered hair straighteners these days, so there’s always a way!

Research Brands Before Buying

Be aware of your carbon footprint and how it extends through the brands that you buy. If you purchase toilet paper from a non-renewable source, for example, then you are contributing to deforestation. Choose instead a brand that plants a tree (or two) for every one they chop down. This will help to make you a greener consumer and will also show companies that you are willing to vote with your purse. The less money non-renewable companies are making, the more they will think about going green.

Give To Charity

If you have a little spare money but not much time, then you can donate a small amount every month to green-centric charities like Greenpeace or more specific causes. If you believe in saving the earth, then you can spare a few coffees or nights out in order to put your money where your mouth is! And if you have no money but a bit of spare time, consider doing some volunteer work to help the cause. Even just handing out leaflets or taking donations in a public area can really make a difference. It’s also a great way to meet similarly-minded people.

There are lots of ways to satisfy your inner green girl, and they don’t even have to take much effort. It just requires a bit more active thought now and then.

So, it’s happened. He broke up with you. I know, it hurts – really bad. But you don’t have to wallow in it for any longer than you want to. It’s time to get over that break-up. Here’s my best tips for becoming your best self again and moving on.

Throw Out His Stuff

The number one thing you have to do is to clean your ex out of your life. Throw away things that he gave you, and anything that he left at your house that he doesn’t want to claim. Delete those pictures off your phone, and definitely his number – as well as all those flirty texts. Don’t hold back. For as long as you hold onto everything of his, you are still holding on to a relationship that is long over.

Go Partying

Grab your best mates and go out. Go anywhere you like – to a pub, a club, a cocktail bar, or even a house party. The point is that you need to let your hair down. Even if you’re a single mother working 3 jobs, call a babysitter and take one night off. Just one. You need to relax and let loose, so do this for you.

Treat Yourself

Do something you love, or get yourself something you have always wanted. Whether it’s a long soak in a bubble bath or a pair of shoes that are just to die for, you should take some time to pamper yourself. Remember that you’re worth the effort.

Change Your Look

Get your hair cut in a bob. Dye it bright pink. Start doing cat’s eye flicks with your eyeliner every day. Change your trademark style. You could even go for rhinoplasty or another procedure to change something that you have never liked about yourself. Why not? Create a new image and see who’s crying once he spots your new look.

Try Meditation

It’s hard to break free from thought patterns if they are running around in your head all day. Try meditation as a way to clear your mind completely. Once you complete a session you will feel refreshed, relaxed, and more connected with yourself. You might find all thoughts of him have mysteriously vanished after a few tries.

Get Back On The Horse

You don’t need a man to validate you, but having a fling is a great way to repair your heart and take your mind off your ex. Download your dating app of choice and start swiping. Who knows – you might meet Mr Right. But you could also have a lot of no-strings-attached fun with Mr Wrong first.

Focus On You

This is also a great time to refocus your life and think about your goals. Where do you want to be in 5 years’ time? Write out a plan for how you can get there, setting realistic targets and choosing things that you can start working on right now. Working on achieving your vision of the future is perfect distraction, and a great way to get moving in the right direction again.

Having a broken heart is tough, but the pain will fade. Doing something proactive to get over a bad break-up is the best way forward, and you owe it to yourself to try!