Honestly, the road to physical health is a lot easier than the road to good mental health. Maybe you’re on a journey towards better health and overall wellness. You’ve got your gym bag packed, a meal plan ready, and perhaps even a shiny new water bottle to keep you hydrated. But don’t forget those cute athletic clothes to keep you motivated, too.
Overall, online, there’s just so much content and so much encouragement for physical health but not very much when it comes to mental health. Actually, even to this day, it’s still something that tends to get overlooked a lot. So, with all of that said, you can’t skip out on it, and you can’t ignore this either. Now, here’s how poor mental health can throw a wrench in your wellness journey and what you can do about it.
Stress is a big Saboteur
We all know stress, right? That feeling that creeps in when we’re overwhelmed, under pressure, or just plain exhausted. Stress can be a real saboteur when it comes to your wellness journey. Actually, this is what gets in the way the most because stress can manifest into so much more.
When you’re stressed out, your body goes into fight-or-flight mode, releasing a cocktail of hormones like cortisol (that’s known for giving stubborn belly fat and just making it hard to lose weight in general). Sure, this is great for short-term survival, but literally only for survival, not day-to-day life. Eventually, if not taken care of, this can manifest into chronic stress, and that alone can lead to a host of issues like weight gain, insomnia, and even a weakened immune system.
It’s really up to you on how you want to manage your mood; some people will use delta-8 THC gummies since this is known for boosting your mood for a few hours (and helping with appetite), others will exercise, but maybe seeing a therapist and getting to the root of the cause can really help too. But overall, this can sabotage your life, this can sabotage you, and you can’t let that happen. Sure, stress is common, but too much stress can just destroy everything you’ve built up.
Manifestation into Anxiety
So, above, stress can turn into chronic stress, but that can manifest itself into anxiety. Anxiety is like that uninvited guest who shows up at your party and refuses to leave. It can make everything feel overwhelming, from the thought of going to the gym to planning a healthy meal.
Yes, the smallest things in your life just seem to have a way of becoming scary; what confidence you once had just seems to go down the drain. When anxiety takes hold, it can paralyze you, making it difficult to take the steps needed to achieve your wellness goals.
It’s Hard to Get Out of the Depression
The best way to describe depression would be a heavy blanket that smothers your motivation and energy. It’s more than just feeling sad; it’s a pervasive sense of hopelessness and fatigue that can make even the simplest tasks feel monumental. When you’re depressed, getting out of bed can be a struggle, let alone sticking to a wellness routine.
Looking over your garden, perhaps it’s doing its job adequately enough for now, but is it really reaching its full potential? If you think the answer to this question is “no”, when what should you do about it? Here, we’re going to look at five of the upgrades that can help you truly get a lot more from your garden, whether in convenience, lifestyle or other metrics.
Invest In Some Landscaping
If you feel like your garden is, aesthetically, a little bare-looking, then you should look at some landscaping tips that can help you transform it. Creating raised beds, retaining walls, and other landscaped additions will not only help your garden look much better, but it can also organize and separate different parts of the garden so that there is less crossover and it all becomes much easier to take care of.
Add A Swimming Pool
There are few investments that can offer as much utility and relaxation to a garden as bringing in your own pool. Working with the right swimming pool contractors, you can ensure that you get one that fits the space and dimensions of your garden. It can allow you to cool down and relax during the summer and can enable you to stay healthy by making it much easier to swim on a regular basis. Just be sure you’re aware of how much care and investment a pool requires.
Make An Outdoor Living Space
Using a patio or decking, you can create a gorgeous exterior living space that allows you some room to relax, dine, and socialize. This means creating a space that is comfortable, with the right investment in furniture, and soft furnishings, as well as some way to mitigate the effects of the weather, such as awnings. This can help you create a space that’s perfect for eating outdoors, or for inviting your friends over to enjoy the good weather.
Automate Your Irrigation
Perhaps your garden already fulfils what you want it to, in terms of lifestyle, and instead, you want to make it much more convenient. Perhaps instead of watering the garden yourself, you would prefer to watch it take care of itself. An automated irrigation system can be the perfect tool for doing just that, ensuring that your plants receive the right amount of water. Aside from saving you some time, these systems also tend to be better at saving water than doing it by hand, helping you be more efficient.
Add Some Lighting
Both an aesthetic and a practical choice, the right choice of exterior lighting can make a big difference to any garden. Not only will it improve the aesthetics of the space considerably, but it can also allow you to spend more time relaxing outside as it gets darker, and improves safety by making it easier to see steps, inclines, and other potential tripping hazards.
Making the garden fit your needs is all about assessing what you want it to do. The tips above can show you a few directions to achieve what, precisely, you want from your exterior space.
Are you thinking about improving your home but aren’t sure where to start? One of the best ways to give your space a fresh look is by updating your flooring. You might not realize it yet, but new flooring can bring a lot more to your home than just a stylish appearance.
So let’s take a look at some hidden benefits of new flooring that you definitely shouldn’t miss out on!
Source: Unsplash (CC0)
Boost the value of your home
One of the biggest perks of installing new flooring is that it can significantly boost your home’s value. Whether you plan to sell your house soon or just want to increase its worth, new flooring is a great investment. Potential buyers often look at the condition of the floors first, and having modern, clean floors can really make a difference. Even if you’re not planning to sell, it’s always nice to know that your home is worth more.
Plus, with so many timeless floor designs available, you can choose something that will stay stylish for years to come. Imagine walking into your living room ten years from now and still loving your floor. It’s a great feeling to know that your choice is not only beautiful but also a smart financial move.
Making your rooms feel bigger
Another hidden benefit of new flooring is making rooms feel bigger. It might sound surprising, but the right type of flooring can really open up a space. Lighter-colored floors, for instance, reflect more light and make the room feel more spacious and airy. This is especially useful for smaller rooms or spaces that don’t get a lot of natural light.
When you choose the same flooring for multiple rooms, it creates a seamless look that can make your entire home feel larger and more connected. Imagine walking from the kitchen to the living room without any visual breaks. It’s like your home just expanded without you having to knock down any walls!
Improving comfort and safety
New flooring isn’t just about looks; it can also enhance the comfort and safety of your home. Old, worn-out floors can be uneven and even dangerous, leading to trips and falls. By installing new, even flooring, you’re reducing these risks and making your home safer for everyone, especially kids and elderly family members.
Improving the air quality
Did you know that new flooring can also improve the air quality in your home? Old carpets can trap dust, allergens, and other pollutants, which can be bad news for anyone with allergies or asthma. By replacing old carpets with new ones or opting for hard flooring like wood or tile, you can reduce the amount of dust and allergens in your home.
So, the next time you think about giving your home a makeover, consider starting with the floors. With all these hidden benefits, it’s clear that new flooring is more than just a pretty face. It’s an investment in your home’s value, comfort, and overall happiness. Don’t miss out on these amazing benefits!
Dubai is one of those luxurious destinations that many people have seen online through Instagram and other social media platforms like YouTube. Travel is a lot more accessible for those who might have never thought to have visited certain places before, thanks to the internet.
We’ve got so much at our fingertips that seeing places like Dubai and faraway destinations can inspire us to take the plunge and go traveling.
With that being said, if you’re looking to visit Dubai but need to do it on a budget, here are some tips to make sure you don’t overspend!
Hire a car to get around
If you’re looking to save a bit of money on getting taxis every day, then you could always look at a cheap car rental Dubai. This is a good way to save yourself the money that you’d likely spend on taxis and when it comes to taxis for tourists, overcharging is often commonplace.
With a hire car, you can have the flexibility of transport whenever you need it and you’re likely going to save yourself a small fortune. There are also plenty of car options so you could go for something more luxurious if you have a bit of extra budget available. However, there are plenty of cheaper options to make travel more affordable.
Go to old Dubai
When it comes to saving money when traveling, going to the old Dubai is a great way to maximize the budget that you’re on. Anyone visiting the country should stop by this part of the city, especially for its culture.
Hop in a traditional boat – an abra – so that you can cross the creek. This is at a small cost of 1 AED which will transport you to the different side of the luxurious city.
Look for cheap eats
If you’re after some cheap eats while you’re traveling to Dubai, then you should certainly look elsewhere beyond the swanky restaurants often plastered across Instagram.
You should look at the 2nd of December Street. This is a mile-long stretch of road that is packed with many street cafes, shawarma stalls, and hole-in-the-wall establishments that will keep your belly full and your heart happy.
There are plenty of options, so you’ll be able to travel on a budget while eating very well!
Grab a bargain in the markets
Dubai has plenty of places to shop for trinkets and gifts to take back home. With that in mind, you should make a plan to visit markets or souks within Dubai, which are known for providing great value and a great deal of choice for shoppers.
For keen shoppers, you can find some really exquisite items from antiques to handcrafted garments and textiles.
Get a cheap history lesson at a museum
If you’re looking to get a history lesson for less than a dollar, then you should look at visiting the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort. As the city’s oldest existing building, there are plenty of archaeological finds from as far back as 1,000 BC.
When going to Dubai on a budget, these tips will ensure you make the most out of your trip.
In the world of jewelry, vintage pieces hold a special allure, carrying with them stories of the past and timeless elegance. However, sometimes these treasures need a little restoration to bring back their former glory. That’s where partnerships like the one between myself and Zaltas Fine Jewelry come into play. Together, we revived a vintage pendant that I had sitting in my jewelry box. I hoped to transition it from white gold/silver to radiant yellow gold because I want to wear it on a chain with layered with other gold necklaces. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this process and explore its benefits through a Q&A with Rebecca from Zaltas.
Can you walk us through the replating process?
Certainly! The replating process involves several meticulous steps to ensure a flawless transformation. First, the pendant undergoes thorough cleaning to remove any dirt, oils, or residues that may have accumulated over the years. Next, skilled artisans carefully apply a thin layer of yellow gold plating onto the surface of the pendant using specialized techniques. This plating not only enhances the pendant’s appearance but also provides an additional layer of protection against tarnishing and wear.
Lastly what pieces of jewelry can be replated?
Replating offers a multitude of benefits, both aesthetic and practical. From an aesthetic standpoint, replating allows us to breathe new life into cherished pieces, transforming them into stunning works of art that can be enjoyed for years to come. Moreover, replating enables us to customize jewelry to better suit individual tastes and preferences. On a practical level, replating reinforces the durability of the pendant, ensuring longevity and minimizing the need for frequent maintenance.
How does this collaboration with Zaltas Fine Jewelry enhance the replating process?
Partnering with Zaltas Fine Jewelry elevates the replating process to new heights of excellence. With our decades of experience and unparalleled craftsmanship, Zaltas Fine Jewelry brings a wealth of expertise to every project. From their meticulous attention to detail to our commitment to using only the finest materials, Zaltas Fine Jewelry ensures that each replated pendant receives the utmost care and precision.
What materials can be replated?
Metals that can be replated include gold (yellow, white, or rose), silver, platinum, palladium, rhodium, and occasionally nickel alloys.
How long does replating last?
The longevity of replating depends on factors such as the quality of the replating process, the thickness of the plating applied, and how well the jewelry is cared for. Typically, replating can last anywhere from several months to a few years with proper maintenance and care.
Lastly what pieces of jewelry can be replated?
Jewelry items that can be replated typically include those made of metals such as gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Here are some common examples:
- Rings: Engagement rings, wedding bands, and fashion rings are often candidates for replating, especially if they experience wear and tear over time.
- Pendants and Necklaces: Vintage pendants, chains, and necklaces can benefit from replating to refresh their appearance and enhance their durability.
- Earrings: Whether studs, hoops, or dangles, earrings made of precious metals can be replated to restore their shine and luster.
- Bracelets: From delicate bangles to statement cuffs, bracelets of all styles can undergo replating to maintain their beauty and integrity.
- Brooches and Pins: Vintage brooches and pins, often heirloom pieces with sentimental value, can be replated to preserve their intricate designs and craftsmanship.
- Watch Cases and Bands: While not strictly jewelry, watch cases and bands made of precious metals can also be replated to rejuvenate their appearance and extend their lifespan.
It’s important to note that not all jewelry items are suitable for replating, especially if they contain non-metal components such as gemstones or enamel. In such cases, it’s best to contact Rebecca directly to determine the feasibility of replating and exploring alternative restoration options if needed.
When detoxing your jewelry box and looking to revive some older pieces, replating offers a transformative solution for reviving vintage pieces and infusing them with renewed beauty and durability. Through our collaboration with Zaltas Fine Jewelry, we were honored to embark on this journey of restoration, breathing new life into this cherished yet forgotten heirloom pendant and preserving its timeless elegance for generations to come. Clean out your own jewelry box and if you have a vintage piece longing for a makeover, consider the possibilities that replating can offer—it may just be the key to unlocking its full potential. Contact Rebecca HERE with any questions about your own pieces.
Welcome to your home. Yes, those are the same beige walls you’ve been staring at since time immemorial (or at least it feels that long). Your furniture arrangement has remained static long enough to qualify for its own geological era. Feeling like your living space has turned into a yawn-fest? I have some good news for you! Sprucing up your space in a more interesting way is totally possible…
1. Dive Into Decorative Interior Painting
Forget about plain old paint—let’s talk about decorative interior painting. This isn’t just slapping on a new color; it’s about creating a vibe. Think bold geometric patterns, a mural wall, or even a faux finish that makes your guests do a double-take and wonder if you’ve suddenly become an aristocrat with a taste for ancient frescoes.
2. Rearrange Like There’s No Tomorrow
Who says your couch needs to stay glued to that one spot? Move it! Switch up the layout of your furniture to rejuvenate your space and maybe even get a mini workout. It’s free, it’s effective, and best of all, it gives you a new perspective—literally.
3. Throw in Some Throw Pillows
If you’re not ready to commit to new furniture, flirt a little with accessories. Throw pillows are the flings of home decor—exciting, fun, and commitment-free. Mix textures and patterns to add depth to your mundane sofa or chair. Today, cheetah print and stripes; tomorrow, who knows? The possibilities are endless!
4. Gallery Wall: Go Big or Go Home
Create a gallery wall that screams ‘you’. This isn’t just about hanging pictures. It’s an artful arrangement of everything that represents your personality—photos, art prints, concert tickets, or even the oddly charming doodles your kids made that look like Picasso had a wild day. Make it a feature that captures attention and starts conversations.
5. Light It Up
Update your lighting fixtures or add new ones that make more of a statement. A swanky chandelier or some funky lamps can change the mood from “meh” to “wow”. Lighting isn’t just functional; it’s one of the easiest mood-setters and style-updaters around.
6. Plant Parenthood
Go green to beat the decor blues. Indoor plants bring life to any room (literally), and they come in their own decorative pots these days. Whether you opt for a towering fiddle leaf fig or a collection of succulents, plants can add a fresh vibe to your space. Bonus: They’re good for your health too!
7. DIY or Die Trying
Okay, maybe don’t die, but definitely try some DIY. Refurbish an old coffee table, upholster a worn-out chair, or handcraft some wall art. DIY projects can be a gratifying way to personalize your space. Plus, you get to brag about your handiwork every time someone compliments it.
8. Textiles Tell Tales
Swap out old curtains, rugs, or blankets with something new and vibrant. Textiles are like the wardrobe of your home—they define its style and feel. Changing them up is like putting on a fabulous new outfit; it can completely transform how a room feels.
9. Reflect with Mirrors
Mirrors aren’t just for checking out your fabulous self. They can transform the sense of space in a room, reflecting light and views, making small rooms feel larger, and dull rooms feel brighter. Plus, you can check your look as you dash out the door.
10. Shelf Life
Reorganize or restyle your shelves. It’s amazing what removing a few books and adding some intriguing objets d’art or vases can do. Treat your shelves like a mini art gallery; let each shelf tell a story with a curated mix of items that spark joy.
11. Play with Patterns
Inject some playful character into your home by embracing bold patterns. Whether it’s a striking striped wallpaper for your powder room, a chevron throw blanket, or a patterned upholstery for your dining chairs, patterns can transform a bland space into a dynamic area. Don’t shy away from mixing patterns to create a richly layered look that feels both modern and cozy.
12. Floor Them with a New Rug
Sometimes, all it takes to revitalize a room is a fabulous new rug. Choose a large, colorful area rug as a statement piece, or layer different rugs for added texture and depth. Rugs not only define spaces but also add comfort and warmth, making your living area a more inviting place to unwind.
13. Go Retro with Vintage Finds
Add unique flair to your decor by hunting down vintage pieces at thrift stores, flea markets, or online. A retro lamp, an antique mirror, or a mid-century coffee table can add a touch of nostalgia and sophistication to your living space. These pieces often come with a story, adding not just style but also a conversation starter to your home.
So, before you resign yourself to another evening in the doldrums of your current decor, try one (or heck, all) of these ideas to breathe new life into your home. Who knows? You might find that a few simple changes are all it takes to rekindle your love affair with your living space!