Diabetes Action Month happens in New Zealand each November and 2021 is no different as Diabetes New Zealand builds awareness around the complexities of both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes.
Foot Health With Diabetes
During the 2021 Diabetes Action Month, the focus was on foot health. Diabetes NZ released a helpful video around this subject and it includes a discussion with several podiatrists who give valuable advice and the video shows Monique Bradley undergoing a foot check to show how easy it is.
What Is Diabetes
It is important to understand what Diabetes is – the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes – and how it can affect people. If you are wondering if you are at risk or have been recently diagnosed, it is important to get information that can help.
Visit the Diabetes NZ website to discover important information on Diabetes:
Or visit your nearest support centre, GP or Podiatrist to discuss your personal situation.
LIVE Stream Discussions
During the month Diabetes NZ launched 2 live streams across Facebook and Youtube with special guests talking about foot health while dealing with Diabetes. It’s important to note that both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes can cause issues with your feet and it’s important to get checked regularly by your GP or a Podiatrist to ensure your feet are well looked after.
Live Stream 1 – 3rd November 2021
Guests: Michelle Garrett and Aaron Jackson, both Podiatrists in New Zealand.
Live Stream 2 – 17th November 2021
Guests: Dr Carl Peters, Vince and Abby Lee Harder and Rod Slater
Monique’s Diabetes story begins with her Father, Morris Bradley, who suffered from several health complications due to Diabetes Type 2 including issues with his feet.
Monique herself was pre-diabetic for a time and has a deep understanding of how this can progress if left unchecked. Monique is more than happy to be included in campaigns for Diabetes NZ.
It’s sad but true that with increasing age, time is not kind. Depending on where you’re at in life, you may be starting to see a few extra lines here and there, a rogue grey hair or 2, or perhaps you’ve noticed a bit of ‘sagging, bagging and dragging’, as Country music Queen Dolly Parton so aptly put it.
But how do some people seem to defy time and gravity? Is it all injectibles and a few cleverly hidden scars hidden in hairlines? While not everyone may have the budget for these products and procedures, it seems that some people – and not just celebrities – know the secret to anti-ageing…….
The reality is that skin does not produce new cells as quickly as it used to. The skin becomes thinner and more fragile, and the glands lose their ability to moisturise the skin, which is why it is common for older adults to have dry skin. Dry skin occurs when older skin dries out and produces less oil with age.
The solution: Use a great daytime moisturiser, use an eye cream, use a serum, use sunscreen and remember to use a night cream! I know it sounds pretty intense, but if you’re committed to ageing gracefully, and on your own terms, find products that suit both your skin AND your budget.
Night creams or oils are fabulous as they give your skin time to relax regenerate and renew and if nourished right can give your body the ability to produce more collagen which reduces the appearance of wrinkles and gives you a youthful glow. If you want to prevent wrinkles and look younger it’s important to remember that dry skin dries out skin cells that are plump making them look less youthful. [Sources: 1, 4]
The solution: a great collagen supplement and a natural serum such as Caithy Organics Skin Firming Oil or Marula Serum. Both great products and super affordable.
Caithy’s Marula Serum is specially formulated to lift, smooth & firm your skin while imparting radiance & long lasting hydration, corrects the signs of aging – puffiness, dark circles & wrinkles.
Their Skin Firming Oil is a much loved product among our team as well with great results both in slowing down visible signs of ageing and hydration, as well as being great for stretch marks as well.
Be sure to use the coupon code GUIDE5 in the shop to get 5% discount
We all know that exfoliation helps to remove dead skin cells and lets younger, healthier looking skin cells shine through. On the other hand, never exfoliating means that you can’t remove the accumulated bacteria and dead skin cells on your face that make your skin look rough and dull. [Sources: 2, 4]
Stacking a layer of powder on top will then accentuate fine lines and wrinkles and leave your skin looking even dryer. And if you’re a fan of self-tanning products, dry dead skin cells will both make your tan patchy, can make skin appear darker for a few hours and can also darken and accentuate sunspots. [Sources: 10]
The solution: 2 of our favourite products of course!
Our favourite exfoliator – also from the Caithy Organics range is their Skin Brightening Exfoliator which contains a combination of fruit acids and walnut shell powder which naturally and effectively cleans and exfoliates the skin. This hydrating exfoliator also helps to boost your skin’s moisture level and improve overall complexion, leaving your skin looking visibly brighter.
Be sure to use the coupon code GUIDE5 in the shop to get 5% discount
And if you’re a beauty device fan, check out the amazing Ageloc(c) Lumispa. It’s won multiple beauty awards around the world and has proven it’s worth by being both one of the first products of it’s kind to market as well as one the biggest players in the home beauty device industry.
On their website (Nuskin) it states that this device can help with removing dead skin cells, promoting dynamic, visible skin renewal and improving skin brightness and smoothness.
Used morning and night, this handy device has a swirling / sweeping action which lifts away loose cells while reducing appearance of pores. Plus you can save time and use it in the shower, just like you would an exfoliator! Deep cleaning mixed with skin stimulation promoting cell renewal. You’ve got to love it!
Members of our team love it and please note: you need to buy this directly from a distributor, so if you need a link, holler!
Fact: you need more hydration inside and outside!
While you may be using great products, it’s important to remember that hydration and beauty starts from within. Think of what happens to grapes in the sun…..sure: they turn into raisins, their sugars intensify and some turn into wine. The reality is that while many of us would love to be that sweet, turning your skin into a raisin is not really that desirable….Don’t be a raisin. Be a cucumber!
Water helps your skin to stay hydrated from the inside out, but you can also help your skin by making sure you use the right type of moisturizer. The correct hydration ensures that tissues and skin cells are replenished, which enables younger, healthier skin.
Exercise also increases blood flow, allowing oxygen and nutrients to be transported to all functioning cells in the body and skin, including those that promote a youthful appearance. One of the other perks is that as you exercise, you get thirstier and end up drinking more water…..see how this works? [Sources: 0, 9]
In order to look young and stay beautiful, a hydrated, healthy skin needs minerals, fatty acids and vitamins daily. Drinking enough water every day replenishes the skin tissue and cells and ensures younger, healthier skin. Drinking water helps maintain the skin brightness, volume and repair over time, making it one of the best ways to have young looking skin, however getting the right nutrition is also key to winning the fight of antiageing. [Sources: 8, 9, 11]
According to a study by New York City’s Hoffman Center, the best foods to keep skin young come from the formation of an advanced glycation terminal that causes skin wrinkles. These foods are rich in fatty acids such as trout, salmon, tuna, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach and beans. Regardless of the situation, there are steps you can take to look younger by deterring your skin and body from avoidable toxins in your diet and environment. [Sources: 1, 8]
Fact: ageing happens daily, so treat it daily
A few years back, one of our team sourced an online viral product to try – a handheld radio frequency device – hoping to reduce crows feet, fine lines and help with her turkey neck post weight loss.
She loved it so much she created video content that ended up going viral! The machine is commonly known as the Ultrasonic 3-in-1 Beauty Device and has been hugely popular online. While there’s some naysayers, our editor Monique Bradley – who has also been a TV shopping presenter – absolutely loved her results.
The response to the video was great, but it also taught all of us here that ageing continues daily, so the importance of regular beauty treatments or daily treatments in her case became apparent.
Watch the video above of the LIVE stream as Monique shares her top 3 beauty devices (including the Ageloc Lumispa) and a few tips and tricks on what worked for her!
Fact: Makeup is amazing, but it’s not a cure for ageing
If you want to look younger and to keep your skin smooth and radiant, you should not focus on make-up to cover up imperfections but on nourishing foods, anti-aging supplements, certain nourishing face creams and minor lifestyle changes, as they all play a key role in a healthy, youthful appearance. It really is a complete approach both inside and out. [Sources: 11]
If you add the right skin treatments and products to your skincare routine, you can most definitely look younger. If you want to look a year younger, consider taking your skincare treatments to the next level. Skin treatments such as microdermabrasion, light peels, micro laser peels and clear glare laser treatments can help patients look 10 years younger with only a few treatments. [Sources: 6, 8]
And if you want to try an at home treatment (due to budgets or lockdowns) a handheld kit like this can be super handy. The key to using an at home treatment device is NOT to overuse it, thus potentially over irritating or damaging your skin. Make sure you read the reviews on the product you’re considering buying and once you receive it, read the instructions fully. These devices can be great for getting rid of patches of dry skin and blackheads, but if not used correctly, you risk a little bruising or scraping of your skin. Go gently!
Fact: Retinol, vitamin c and hyaluronic acid are brilliant for your skin
Retinoids and vitamins are essential to skin health and are loaded into most creams and facial care products to protect your skin against the signs of ageing. Hyaluronic acid increases moisture, helping to plump fine lines, giving a visible appearance of younger looking skin, [Sources: 2, 6, 8]
Retinol is one of your best soldiers in the fight against free radicals as it promotes cell growth and protects your skin from aging. According to Top Derm: “The best way to ensure cell turnover, protect skin against free radicals and stimulate collagen growth is to use vitamin C in serum, moisturiser and make-up,” says Dr Colbert. Retinoid, a prescription version of vitamin A, helps your skin produce more collagen, which makes it a smart choice if you want a way to look younger. [Sources: 3, 4, 11]
However: you are at greater risk of sun damage when using some of these products which is why a sunscreen of 50+ should be a compulsory item in your bathroom, makeup kit and handbag. UVA rays are the ones that contribute to signs of ageing, as opposed to UVB rays which are the ones that burn. These rays decompose the elastic tissue that gives the skin its elasticity resulting in a dull, saggy appearance. UV rays can cause uneven skin tone, wrinkles and ageing spots. Selenium slows down ageing symptoms such as wrinkles, blemishes, spots, fine lines and dryness. So get some sunscreen immediately! [Sources: 0, 11]
The advantage of ageing is that through years of experience you know what looks best so you can spend your money on the best lipstick for your skin tone and what flatters you. The same goes with your skincare – and your wellness is part of that too. Our hope is that by embracing the fact that we’re all in this together, you will feel more confident in your outer beauty as you age. [Sources: 5, 7, 8]
So find what works for you. And if all else fails, wear sunscreen and drink more water!
If you’re concerned about your wellbeing and in particular your immune system in this crazy Covid paradigm, you’re not alone! But short of becoming the ‘boy in the bubble’ are there ways you can potentially support the wellbeing of you and your family, naturally?
Below are some of our top simple tips that you may or may not know which may directly support your health!
Did you know that sleep is an important part of the immune system’s process? Taking the time your body needs to rest can help keep the body healthy and may directly impact your immune system.
A quality night’s sleep provides an opportunity for your body to restore and rejuvenate while enabling it to naturally detox and find balance. When you sleep well, you make better choices, meaning you also eat well too.
A balanced diet can help you get the vital vitamins that help your body build a healthy immune system and maintain a healthy one. Getting enough vitamin D comes not only from diet, but also from sunlight, which is important.
If you don’t get enough sleep, your immune system doesn’t do the things that make it better able to protect your body against harmful invaders and make you less sick. Studies have shown that people who do not have good quality sleep (enough sleep hours) are more likely to fall ill after being exposed to viruses such as the common cold virus. Lack of sleep over long periods of time can also reduce the body’s ability to respond properly, making flu vaccinations less effective.
This is because vital molecules are formed during sleep to fight infections, which make us more susceptible to disease when we are exposed to viruses that cause the common cold. Your body can heal and regenerate faster when you sleep, making adequate sleep crucial for a healthy immune response.
Exercise may also improve sleep quality and increase immune function.
One way to improve immune function is to boost general blood flow, making it easier for immune cells and other anti-infection molecules to travel throughout the body. In fact, studies have shown that daily exercise reduces inflammation and supports immune cell regeneration. Excessive exercise can have the opposite effect and wear down the body, leaving you with less strength to fight infections.
All parts of the body function better when they are driven by healthy eating and a positive environment with minimal stress. Sleep may not feel like an active process but there are many important activities in your body that take place when you are not awake, which you do not even notice.
Strong immunity is crucial for preventing and combating disease and a key component for a balanced and happy life. The habits you practice can give your immune system what it needs to fight infections and diseases while maintaining a healthy balance despite its complexity. Even before the pandemic, there are ways to give your health the priority it needs – no matter what age you are.
The human body consists of 11 different systems, which in their independent parts keep your body running optimally. The habits and practices that support you with your immunity lend themselves to a happier, more holistic existence. It is essential in the world to be strong and healthy, to fight diseases and illnesses and to enjoy your body and the life it gives you.
Just as your home security system provides protection, your immune system uses a system of chemicals and proteins to fight viruses, harmful bacteria, infections and parasites in your body. A healthy immune system is the primary defence against a cold, flu, coronavirus, simple infection or allergy.
Flu and colds are typical examples of how the body fails to stop germs and bacteria before they enter. No matter how long you stay healthy, remember that you can still get sick. It is no coincidence that large stressful projects at work may make you ill, followed by emotional situations at home.
Therefore, it is important to focus on staying active and moving regularly. Studies that assess how exercise affects the body at the cellular level suggest that periods of physical activity can alert the immune system and spread immune cells throughout the body without looking for damaged or infected cells (Check out the links below to learn more). The body is dependent on the hormone cortisol (as an example) for short-term stress situations, and when the body reacts to fight or flight, cortisol has a positive effect by preventing the immune system from responding to stress events before the body can react to an immediate stress factor.
Studies have shown that malnutrition and poor nutrition can weaken our immune system. Keeping your immune system in top shape gives your body the nutrients it needs to thrive. If your diet consists of processed, fatty or sugary foods, your body will not receive the vitamins and minerals it needs, which can lead to a weakened immune system. Experts believe that your body absorbs vitamins from food sources and supplements. A balanced diet is the best way to support your immune system.
A wide range of nutrients plays a role in maintaining a strong immune system, so be sure to eat lots of vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats. Eat a rainbow of vegetables and fruits to make sure you get a variety of nutrients. Vitamin supplements can help fill the gaps in your diet, but the best way to get vital nutrients is to get them from your diet.
Fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, miso yoghurt and kefir are also beneficial. Lean protein and complex carbohydrates such as brown rice and quinoa can also be part of a healthy diet.
Strengthening the immune system Dieting the body with certain foods can help keep the immune system strong. The inclusion of certain foods in a diet can strengthen a person’s immune response. A Mediterranean diet rich in wholesome, unprocessed foods with antioxidants can reduce inflammation and promote good gut bacteria, which can help build a strong immune system.
FYI: If you’re a fan of a smoothie bowl, click here for a fast and easy recipe!
According to registered Naturopath Lynette Hill from My Remedy, Thymus tapping is also something worth considering.
“Behind your sternum, or breastbone, sits the thymus gland, your immune system’s surveillance gland.
It is part of the lymphatic immune system and one of the functions of the thymus is to process and mature T cells ( also known as killer cells) , the immune system’s “soldiers”. Thumping, or tapping, your thymus gland stimulates your immune system, giving it a boost.
Use thymus tapping to keep the gland active and boost your immune system.”
Lynette Hill: BNatMed and Clinical Director – My Remedy
To learn more about Thymus tapping, click the button below.
Finally, there are plenty of products in the market that may support your wellbeing and your immune system, from Vitamin C, Zinc, Vitamin D and magnesium, through to Lentinex, a relatively new product from Norway. Lentinex a natural product, clinically proven to enhance immune system function and has information on their clinical trials to support this.
To find out more about this product, click the button below.
Ready to transform your life? Tired of living with self limiting beliefs that are holding you back? Then it’s time to download your EXCLUSIVE ‘Guide To Better Living 30 Day Personal Transformation Journal‘.
This journal guides you through some initial preparatory exercises designed to connect you back to yourself and begin your own personal life audit. We then encourage you to make time each day to fill in your daily awareness and gratitude exercises and follow with the daily journal prompt.
Know too, that as you’re going through this experience, there are many others going through the same journey also, including members of our editorial team, perhaps your friends or even members of your own family.
Why?
Because if you’re on this site, you’re looking for more. You’re looking for a more fulfilling life OR you’re ready to level up.
This is YOUR TIME. You have 30 days to create the life you deserve, so download your journal NOW
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I read a quote one time that said ‘the best way to predict your future is to create it’, but I wouldn’t be the first to admit that the road to success as an entrepreneur is not necessarily the easiest.
So why do we do it?
What is the driving force or desire that propels us into a life that’s far from ordinary?
In this article, we chat with 4 inspirational women in business committed to creating their own success.
Every challenge is an opportunity for learning and growth.
According to Elizabeth Herr, Founder and Body language specialist for The People Toolbox, “Life is never dull! In between home educating our children, mentoring, speaking, and running our home, I tried to keep up-skilling professionally.”
In 2016 Elizabeth and her husband hit a financial challenge so she added a paid, part-time job as a PA/EA to her already busy schedule. However, while some women may crumble at the extra workload while building a business, looking after a home and all the day to day struggles that ‘doing life’ can offer, Elizabeth chose to focus on the positives.
“This [situation] actually gave me admin and organisational experience for my business, and I was better at it than I thought I’d be. Our home educating journey was coming to an end in 2017 and I needed to start planning my next steps. My husband had been running his own business for over 20 years by then, but I never thought it was something I’d be able to do.”
This is what propelled Elizabeth into creating her own business.
“I had always been interested in human behaviour, mental well-being, and personal development. My last role as a mental health nurse included group training and facilitation which, to my surprise, is something I enjoyed doing, a lot! I started dreaming about starting my own business, helping people grow personally and gain confidence, which I actually lacked at the time! What to do? I was looking for a good communication’s course and stumbled upon a body language course, something I’ve always been interested in.”
The course was the first of many for Elizabeth and as she learned to be intentional with her non-verbal communication, her confidence grew exponentially, pushing her to want to share this with EVERYONE.
“Still, I was unsure of what I could truly offer. One evening, I made a list of things I’ve done well in the past and skills I’d acquired in my adult life. I looked at the list as if I was reading about someone else, and for the first time in my life, I thought, ‘That person is quite amazing!’ I told a friend about it and then she challenged me. ‘Stop asking what you have to offer others, and ask what they’ll miss out on if they don’t get to know you!’ That was a turning point for me and I started to own my knowledge and acknowledge my own skills. With the amazing support from my family and friends, I jumped into this exciting journey.”
Elizabeth is straight up, like most of us, about self confidence.
“Self-belief was by far the most difficult thing for me to gain. Sometimes I had to just take steps in the right direction based on the confidence my tribe had in me. I was fortunate to have a husband with experience in running a business and a friend who offered to mentor me! This is 100% not a journey you can walk on your own, and so I rely on my tribes to support and challenge me on the way.”
Carve your own pathway
As a solopreneur, Pamela Elliott, owner and independent Bra Fit Specialist for INTIMO Lingerie, knows the importance of carving your own pathway. With a background in broadcast television and a keen eye for fashion, she’s carefully found her feet in the INTIMO world, making her way to become NZ’s top seller many times!
“I was already in Retail Businesses I owned, but felt trapped as the necessary hours spent were becoming less rewarding in every sense. This [INTIMO] career was initially in addition to the career I already had, but proved to be more rewarding by its flexibility, fun, upskilling and personal development potential. Cash flow was important and working alongside women who also wanted to have what I had in terms of career choice, income, flexible working hours, fashion , fun, and adult company.”
While it sounded like Pamela found everything she was looking for, the reality is that EVERY business has its challenges.
“Managing my time and developing a network beyond my current small circle was a challenge. Overcoming that was slow and I needed to make decisions to strategically use the time available. Once time wasn’t the overriding issue, I then was able to expand my horizons.”
The power of pivoting
Many of us experience the stress of relationship breakups, relocations or changes in life circumstances, but for Susy Egneus, founder and CEO of Bodyworkz Corporate Massage Ltd, changes in her situation opened the door to a whole new world.
“I was struggling with being a full time mum, and wanting ‘to do’ something, and create something purposeful in my life. Life made the decision for me in terms of a relationship breakup. I was living in the far North of NZ, and was studying via correspondence (yes before online learning was a thing) towards a naturopath degree, as I was interested in natural health. I took the kids and moved to Auckland, and decided that since I really liked the massage component of the course, I would study a qualification towards it. I set up a practice at home for starters, but didn’t feel safe bringing clients in. I always liked the idea of bringing massage to the workplace and did a lot of research around this, before changing my business to my first corporate massage business (back in 2004).”
And this was just the beginning of her first of 2 corporate massage businesses!
However getting started was a challenge….
“Finding clients to start with [was a challenge]! And putting myself ‘out there’. Having no business experience, and just starting with simple flyers, and talking to people was hard. Also believing in myself was something I had to overcome, [while] feeling that although I knew how to massage and was good with it, and although the intention was there, I lacked the business practice I thought I needed.”
So how did Susy overcome those self limiting beliefs and grow 2 successful businesses?
“[I learned] that sometimes the best lessons are from doing the actual work, as that is how experience is earned! Also, [I learned] to show up no matter what, and with intention. It is just one step after the other. And to trust the process. I still struggle with this one, as I want things to happen in my timeframe, not letting it unfold as a process…But I’m getting there.”
Be open to possibilities
Sharlene Ferguson professional photographer and owner of Focal Point Photos is a wonderfully curious individual, with a passion for capturing the realness of people through her images.
“ I was super young. I’d graduated Uni with a Bachelor of Business Studies, then was lucky enough to have various contracts & roles that catapulted my skill set: Coordinating advertising in publishing, making clothes for a living, studio management for a photographer and business development for a events company – All great experience that I’m so grateful for.”
While some people spend their lives looking for their ‘thing’, for Sharlene, it was obvious.
“Photography seemed like an obvious choice. I realized one day while flicking through a stock library book that photography would allow me to experience and explore so many areas of life that I was interested in – people, places, creativity, industries, business, emotion, expression, design etc. It ticked so many boxes for my personality and I just knew it was the right fit for me.”
However, like most creatives, getting yourself ‘out there’ and building a client base can be a challenge, however she attributes her 25 years of business success to 2 simple factors: patience & perseverance.
SO, finally we asked one big question to each of our contributors in this article:
“What is that one piece of wisdom that you’ve learnt, which you want to share with anyone else considering starting their own business?”
Elizabeth: ‘Do it scared’, and ‘Done is better than perfect.’
Pamela: Believe you will succeed and do everything you know and can learn, to do so.
Susy: Just do it! You know more than you think, you are stronger than you know, so just start small, but do start. Create a road map, set the GPS so you know where you want to end up. Enjoy the journey bit by bit, lamp post to lamp post, minute by minute. Keep going, but take breaks and reflect on the journey as well.
Sharlene: Be kind to yourself
We couldn’t have said it better.
If these messages have resonated with you, make sure you connect with these amazing women online and ‘like’ or ‘follow’ their social pages. You never know where that journey might take you…….
Do you feel like you’ve been just living life on the hamster wheel?
Does each day just roll into the next?
Are you ready to move from being a player in your ‘simulation’ to a conscious controller?
Perhaps it’s time to find your life’s purpose. For some people that can be a lifelong adventure and a great place to start that journey is with a simple planning session.
The journey to find your purpose
I used to think I had to find a certain purpose or passion in my life. Nowadays, I have learned that you can burn your purpose in life if you pursue it the wrong way, in a way that exhausts you rather than energises you. There are two great days in your life : the day you are born and the day you find your purpose……..however if you don’t know what your purpose is and if you don’t know who you are, it can be difficult to live a fulfilling life. But where do you start with something so BIG? [Sources: 6, 7, 11]
It is not enough to know what problem you want to solve; you also need to think about how you want to solve this problem…..and why. That means taking steps to get where you want to go and removing the things in your life that you don’t want to be. Sounds simple but often the simple act of saying NO or standing in your authentic power can be challenging. What I can share however is that it gets easier with time…..as does finding and aligning with your own unique path and purpose. [Sources: 6, 7]
How to find meaning in life
If you want fulfilment, happiness, contentment, inner peace and ultimate satisfaction, it is crucial that you learn how to find your passion and purpose in life. Learning to find meaning in life is a lifelong journey, but once you discover its purpose, you will discover that your life opens in ways you have never thought possible. At this stage of your life the outside world does not shape your dreams and you have direct access to your passions and goals. [Sources: 5, 12]
It may seem counter-intuitive but sometimes if you do not think about finding your purpose in life, you are already on the way there. For some of us, if we do not think about our passion and purpose in life, we are already on the right track, hence it’s important to know yourself and your own learning style and stay true and authentic to that. Others however need a more structured and guided approach to self discovery, and that’s ok too. I guess what I’m trying to say is that there is no ‘one size fits all’ solution. Your path and your purpose are as unique as you and your journey. Embrace it and be gentle on yourself! JUST KEEP MOVING. [Sources: 6]
Taking steps forward in your life’s path
A simple approach to answering this Universe sized dilemma is to consciously try to improve your life and live with meaning: search for it through mindfulness and making the most of each moment, as in that brilliance sometimes the answers you’re looking for will simply appear. You will find your purpose and you will feel every delicious moment of it, almost as if every cell in your body is tingling! ( Well, that was my experience…..) Your goal is to be at the service of living your life with joy. It’s at the interface of what you love and what other people need. [Sources: 1, 5]
Recognising, realising and honouring their true purpose in life are some of the most important actions successful people take. The goal is to foster a sense of purpose, one that changes other people’s lives as sometimes we never fully understand that simply by BEING, we positively impact others in the most profound ways. Cultivating a sense of connectedness and presence is part of that journey also. [Sources: 10, 12]
Drowning out negative voices
It is often said that we will never understand how to find our purpose by listening to other opinions or seeking outside approval. If people feel they have no sense of direction or purpose in their lives it is because they do not know what is important for them and because they do not know what their values are, hence a life planner is a great way to understanding yourself. Once you know who you are, what you’re here to do and who you’re here to be, you’re unstoppable. [Sources: 1, 4, 8]
Once you identify the factors that prevent you from finding your purpose in life, you can silence them and pursue your true vocation. Once we have identified the things that prevent us from finding our purpose, it becomes apparent what we’re here to do with our lives. [Sources: 12]
Achieving and finding your purpose
To find your purpose, you may like to consider how to use your passions and skills to achieve and solve your unique problems and the problems of others. [Sources: 5, 7]
Even if you have big dreams and goals driven by determination and passion, it can take months or years to accomplish them. If you focus on achieving short-term goals, you won’t find your true passion and discover how to find your purpose. Big picture is a great place to start….YES – you have permission to daydream….in fact, it’s compulsory! [Sources: 1, 8]
To be honest, this article is not so much about finding meaning, but about finding what makes you happy in life and what makes you feel the best. When there is a purpose in life, one lives more focused and efficient, feels less restless and stressed, and does not feel that everything is irrelevant, impossible or monotonous. For some, the simple act of writing everything down helps them find purpose in every aspect of life, leading to their LIFE’S PURPOSE. [Sources: 0, 3]
Helping others find their life’s purpose
The discovery of one’s purpose in life amounts to finding one or two things that are greater than oneself, greater than what one values, that determine one’s priorities and guide one’s actions. Think of your purpose in life as a golden thread, some of which may come in the form of a particular career or profession, while others may look like a way of being or expression. [Sources: 4, 5]
The awareness you gain through working through this free download will guide you in making decisions and choosing the direction of your life. Discovering your purpose will help you to identify and implement your own purpose in all areas of your life and the planner will help you create greater self awareness and a framework for your next steps . [Sources: 1, 2, 3]
In the years ahead, you may look back and see this as one of those opportunities that will lead you to discover the true meaning of life and go on to inspire and empower people to live their supreme vision in the context of their lives too. It’s happened for me many times and I’d love for you to experience this level of joy too. It beats chocolate cake and champagne every time! Most importantly, knowing that you’re contributing to building a better quality of life on planet earth through activating others to make better, more empowered choices for their own lives…..well…..you just can’t beat that. [Sources: 12]
As Ghandi said: Be the change you want to see in the world.
If you’re unhappy, address why and make changes internally or externally to find your way back to happy.
If you’re looking for meaning, BE meaning.
And if you’re looking for a focus, download this planner and start your journey NOW.
“I guess there’s nothing like a health scare to prompt you into taking a closer look at your health and lifestyle.
This was the case for me back in February 2019.
I was out of town at an event in Masterton when all of a sudden I started getting chest pain. Luckily for me Wellington Free Ambulance were also at this event and I went to see them to tell them how I was feeling.
After an initial assessment they suggested I head to hospital for further checks because my blood pressure was very high.
In hospital I had a few more checks done and was discharged shortly after.
A minor heart attack was ruled out but it was still a pretty scary experience. Back home, with a feeling of not wanting to experience that ever again, I decided I must start taking better care of myself.
Thinking back, a few people close to me did tell me I was carrying a bit of extra weight. I didn’t disagree with them because it was true. I just didn’t think I could do anything about it, I thought I was eating healthy. The other thing was, I didn’t have much energy to exercise and I traded exercise over rest. 😴
I remembered seeing a friend who was having a lot of success with improving his health so I looked further into what he was doing. What became evident was that a lot of people were having success.
So my mate put me in touch with Kim-Xia Au and Kelly Wing who helped me get started with a nutrition system that aligned with what I wanted to achieve.
After nearly five weeks on the program Xia invited me to share my progress.
I managed to release 5.5kg in weight and 17cm in overall size since I started which was pretty cool. Now my shorts are sitting differently on my hips because there’s less belly pushing them down!
Aside from the physical transformation I am also sleeping better and wake up with way more energy. I get out and about and do far more than I ever used to, so I guess my metabolism is working better now.
After experiencing results like this in such a short amount of time it’s definitely something I am going to continue with.
And if you need help, reach out. It’s amazing how one conversation literally changed my life.“
While we’re almost at the end of 2021, it’s become apparent that a lot of things have changed when it comes to the way we cook and eat.
Over the past year, many people have found that food is more important than ever – whether that means cooking new dishes, talking at home, ordering deliveries to shake up their routines – or whether government rules allow dining in restaurants to enjoy the experience.
In the food industry, where more people than ever have been forced to cook at home and get creative with their meals, a number of new food trends have been seen. As an example, many people know how easy and rewarding it is to bake homemade bread! Not only has that become super popular, we do not see that trend disappearing any time soon! [Sources: 4, 11]
COVID-19 has played an important role in many, if not all, of this years emerging food trends. As the world shifts to a health-oriented approach to food, the global pandemic has increased the desire for healthy, affordable food. Changes in the way people are socialised during the pandemic, global restaurant closures and a revised focus on health and home cooking are the driving forces behind some emerging food trends for 2021. [Sources: 8, 11]
As we enter a new paradigm after the pandemic, we’ve looked at industry reports and talked to some food, beverage and restaurant professionals to see what’s changing and what you can expect from food trends in 2021/2022. [Sources: 0, 8]
More people are cooking. And they’re cooking healthy.
In the face of increasing anxiety and depression worldwide, many people are beginning to seek food, or comfort food as a source of healing. Recipes such as courgette lasagne and ready meals such as cauliflower gnocchi are becoming increasingly common as more people seek to balance their high-carb favourites with low-carb alternatives. [Sources: 11]
We know that this nutritional trend has also lead to a new range of meat alternatives and interest in alternative sources of protein. Herbal products will continue to be in vogue in 2021 / 22: 28 percent of people say they eat more protein from plant sources due to the pandemic, according to IFIC. [Sources: 8, 9]
“We are seeing a huge increase in packaged products using neglected or underused parts or ingredients to reduce food waste. Processed foods are made from ingredients that may otherwise be food waste, helping to maximise the energy used in the production, transport and preparation of these foods. We are seeing a huge increase in packaging products that use neglected or underused parts or ingredients as a way to reduce food waste.” [Sources: 7, 8]
Kombucha is still cool
While the pandemic focuses on health concerns, consumers are looking for functional ingredients that will benefit their food and beverages. As awareness of the benefits of maintaining gut health grows, it is expected that gut-friendly foods such as pickling, fermentation, prebiotics and probiotics will become increasingly popular with customers. Fermented foods such as kombucha, which is rich in probiotics, can boost gut health. [Sources: 2, 6]
Drinking kombucha is still hot right now with more people buying Kombucha kits, and the trend will only intensify as more people become aware of the benefits and restaurants begin offering kombucha. [Sources: 2]
Baby food – the newest trend?
Baby food sometimes gets a bad name, but by the end of 2021/22 it’s likely we’ll see many new, healthy and tasty baby food products. Many companies have been responding to the need for more sustainable and ‘conscious’ products and it appears that new ranges of innovative products, dedicated to people who pay more attention to what they eat in the morning, is emerging, and they want that for their children too. Keep an eye out for that trend. [Sources: 6, 7, 8]
Eating in is the new eating out
In 2021/22, many of the trends we saw at the beginning of the year will continue as the COVID 19 pandemic continues. People have got into the habit of ordering groceries online and cooking at home, and the rise of Uber Eats and other delivery services means people are more likely to dine at home than eat out.
Basically, lockdowns worldwide have changed the way we eat and how we feel and across fast food companies and restaurants, businesses are expected to introduce more innovation to stay competitive, but forecasters also predict that new things like plant-based fish will become the norm. Predicting food trends is always a dubious exercise, but there’s that old adage ‘give the people what they want…’ The market has spoken, so demand has been created…..etc etc…….[Sources: 9, 13]
Every year, the Whole Foods Trends Council, which comprises more than 50 members of the Whole Foods Market team including local grocers, regional and global buyers and culinary experts, creates trend forecasts based on decades of experience and expertise in product sources, consumer preferences studies, front lines and emerging and existing brands. The Global Food Forum and the related websites Clean Label, Protein Trends, Technologies and Sweetener Systems offer an annual list of top food trends, and additionally a list of the top 2021 food trends worth checking out if you’re ready to head down the rabbit hole. If you’re more just a food participant, eat and enjoy! [Sources: 6, 10]
International food trendologist Liz Moskow has teamed up with innovation and intelligence platform Spoonshot to forecast and interpret how food trends will influence menu and product development and consumer behavior in 2021. Given the huge volume of data to study and the algorithmic connections that must be made, Liza’s predictions and interpretations of food trends are being equipped with a new level of organic intelligence. By capitalising on the hottest holiday trends, you can position your restaurant to be newsworthy and ensure that you stay relevant against growing competition to become more profitable. [Sources: 2, 3]
Let’s make it easy
And if you’re a simple foodologist or foodie like me, here’s my advice: Find food you like. Find food that makes you feel good. Eat food that aligns with your values and share it with people whose company you actually enjoy.
Life is short. Covid’s been tough. Don’t waste your time on people and food you don’t like. Create more joy and eat good food.
This recipe is super tasty, filling, satisfying and cheesy, while still being low carb. One of the reasons I really love about it is that it’s super easy to make and you don’t miss the lasagne sheets as well, meaning this heavenly piece of goodness is gluten free too!!
Ingredients
150g beef mince
½ onion, diced
1 garlic clove, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tin tomato diced
60g spinach
½ courgette /zucchini, finely sliced into strips
50g ricotta
¼ tsp nutmeg
10g parmesan cheese, grated
Method
Preheat the oven to 200°C/400°F/
In a pan sauté mince and onion together for 10 minutes, until onion has softened. Add garlic, oregano and tinned tomatoes, then cook down for for another 5-10 minutes. Add the spinach and stir through. Allow to cook down and thicken for 5 minutes.
In a separate bowl, mix the nutmeg into the ricotta.
Spread the mince evenly into an oven-proof dish. Layer on the courgette / zucchini strips, scoop over the ricotta and top with parmesan cheese.
Bake for 10-15 minutes until your cheese goes golden brown, then let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Serve with a crunchy green salad or steamed green vegetables and enjoy!
It is never easy to think about the end of a relationship, especially if you have invested years of your life into your commitment and your partnership. Whatever happens, putting together plans without your partner in mind is one of the most important signs that it is time to end the relationship. When a relationship takes its course, the thought of staying with that person may exhaust you, make you feel like you’re carrying a heavy burden; you don’t seem to find any reason to keep trying to make it work, you feel taken for granted and you don’t feel it’s worth it. Sound familiar? Show Source Texts
In some relationships, you and your partner can reach the point of resentment or contempt for each other. Hate and resentment can outweigh feelings of love and compassion for your partner, which is a typical sign that your relationship may be coming to an end. It is common for a person to feel that they have made valiant efforts to save the relationship, but they feel that no matter what they do it is never enough, they can never solve the problem and they have have simply ‘run out’. Show Source Texts
Letting go…..be aware
If you have been together for a long time and feel comfortable and familiar, it can become increasingly difficult to let go. Feeling alone at the end of a relationship is often a sign that someone in the relationship wants to draw your attention to feelings of isolation in relationship. One of the biggest reasons people stay in a relationship for a while after the end of a relationship is that they are afraid to be alone. Show Source Texts
Growing apart
A person in a relationship may have grown and changed so much that they feel they have outgrown each other. One should hope that people grow together in relationships, but that is not always the case. If people do not grow in the same direction, it may be time for them to break away from the relationship. Show Source Texts
Feeling stagnant
It is common for people to stagnate in relationships. Romantic relationships and friendships are a way of spending time together, however it’s important to be aware if there is a fulfilling mutual exchange between you both or if it is emotionally exhausting. Be honest. Right now, you may think it is going to be difficult to separate from a partner, but in some instances it is just a natural part of the long-term reciprocity demise that happens in relationships. Show Source Texts
Marriage is not always the answer
Another way to judge whether it is time to end a relationship is to look at a possible future together and imagine marrying your current partner. You may even have that friend who has been through a troubled relationship who suddenly gets engaged in the hope that marriage will make all the difference. Getting married is a huge emotional and financial endeavour, designed to show the world the commitment of 2 humans to each other.
Marriage is not therapy.
If the idea of building a strong and serious bond with another person can trigger feelings of panic and anxiety, this can be a strong indicator that it may be time to in fact end the relationship. No one can tell you what’s right or wrong when it comes to this level of commitment, but some marriage counsellors and therapist do suggest using your feelings as your compass. Make time to consider how you feel and trust your instincts. Show Source Texts
What happens when someone cheats?
Most people regard cheating as a physical act, but investing time and emotion in another person (a non-physical emotional affair) can be an important indicator that the relationship is not fulfilling for you or your significant other, and just as painful. Relationships should inspire you, make you happy and make you think about the future with your partner. Whether physically or emotionally cheating, it is important that this issue is addressed and it may be worth considering couples counselling. Show Source Texts
What happens when you no longer feel safe in a relationship?
Feeling insecure or threatened by the presence of a romantic partner is an alarming sign that something is wrong with your relationship and one of the most important signs of a failed relationship. If you or your partner are afraid of being present or close to each other, this is a sure sign that the relationship is coming to an end and you should seek help or find a safe space as soon as possible. There are many agencies, including Womens Refuge that can help or call on a trusted advisor or family member to provide a safe space for you for some time out as you work out what are the right next steps for YOU. There is no time frame on this other than if you do not feel safe, remove yourself from the situation immediately. Show Source Texts
When your anger turns inward
When a relationship is in its final stretch, you may no longer make the effort to approach your partner and ask then how they are or what they intend to do. If that sounds familiar, you may also notice that you frequently become detached, down or even depressed as you actually end up channeling your frustration elsewhere – internally. Being depressed is just the effect of your situation and the key is to address the cause, then think critically about what you want to change, what you need to change and what you’re committed to changing. It may even be worth making a list of ‘pros and cons’ so you can critically weigh up the consequences of your decisions and create a plan for moving forward again. Show Source Texts
To argue or not argue?
Disputes and arguments are normal in most relationships as each participant finally gets to ‘air your issues’, but your ultimate goal should be to solve problems in a rational and calm way. While it is normal for relationships and cycles of ‘trigger behaviour’ to develop over time, when a partners words, way of behaving or addressing you continues to trigger an angry or anxious state, it can be a sign that your partner is less concerned with the consequences and simply playing through the cycle of behaviour. If you’ve seen couples ‘baiting’ each other in front of you, it’s a clear sign that there’s tension behind the scenes and it’s worth looking out for that in your own relationship. Show Source Texts
Unless both parties are willing to play their part in the relationship, it will not work. If you have a good person in your life who you love and who is close to your heart it is best to try to figure out the potential to save the relationship. If one partner is not willing to work hard to meet the other’s needs, the relationship is worth no more than time. Show Source Texts
If you think that you want to end your relationship, you can benefit from talking to an impartial professional who can help you find the safest and healthiest way forward.
Finding the right solution may be a challenge right now, but it’s important to remember that YOU are worth it. Ask for help, be honest.
If you are looking for a house in your price range that meets the requirements of your ‘dream home’, you may end up looking for several decades! The reality is the market has changed, Covid has thrown all the balls up in the air, no one has any certainty anymore and the chances of getting a foot on the property ladder with your ‘dream home’ is more than just far from realistic…….Good luck finding anything right now!
However it’s not all doom and gloom and there’s some really important things to consider before you even start window (or door, or driveway) shopping.
Renovate or ready to move into?
Many buyers like you are often looking for ‘ready-to-move into’ homes to avoid costly repairs and upgrades after moving in. A great solution if you can find it as not only should you be happy with your new home, but if a renovation has been done well, it will likely grow in value over the time you live there, especially if you intend to sell it in the future. [Sources: 0, 3, 5]
Know your neighbourhood
A good estate agent will search the market for properties that fit your needs and will guide you through the negotiations and closing processes. If you can’t find or can’t afford a home or apartment in your ideal neighbourhood, you might want to ask yourself a few questions and enlist the help of your real estate agent to find a place that suits your lifestyle, needs and budget. Research what you can know about the neighbourhood and potential home, including schools and transportation, nearby home prices, busy roads, employment opportunities, and anything else that you and your real estate agents can imagine could affect the value of your home. [Sources: 0, 5, 13]
Do some price research
Make sure the purchase price of the house you are buying is appropriate for its location, check comparable sales and get your agent’s opinion before making an offer. Talk to potential agents and ask about their experiences, how they help first time buyers in your market and how they want to help you find a home. [Sources: 12, 13]
Get pre-approved
Make sure you have a pre-approved loan before you offer a home, before you seriously consider looking for a rental property. It is a good thing for your business not to drag out the process of buying a home, as the continued success of your business is crucial to repaying the mortgage. When it comes to buying a new home, be realistic, take your time, not be impulsive, and make a purchase decision that is best for your long term vision and your finances. [Sources: 12]
Talk to family and friends
Knowing what to do when buying a home will help you throughout your new build and home purchase process. A house is the largest purchase most people will make in their lives and trying to understand the process of buying a home can seem overwhelming. If you understand potential problems, you will be able to have more confidence in the buying experience and enjoy your new home without worrying about what might be wrong. Talk to family and friends about their experience[Sources: 2, 9, 11]
Get a good mortgage broker
Before buyers buy a home, they first need to look for a lender. Whether you’ve won the lottery, played professional sports or have wealthy relatives, you’ll need a mortgage (or, in a word, a home loan) to buy a house. [Sources: 2, 11]
Rachael Thompson, also known as ‘The Smarter Mortgage’ is a leader in helping people get pre-approved and finally get into their own place to call home. According to Rachael, one of the most important parts of her job is the education.
“A number of people trying to get a house and a mortgage don’t realise that the servicing of short term debt can affect your ability to service a mortgage as most lenders have a different affordability calculator and servicing rate and therefore your maximum mortgage number is calculated differently.”
While that may sound relatively complex, taking a look at the numbers and educating her clients about what they mean and how to transform your financial situation and your potential for a lender to approve your application.
“In my capacity as ‘The Smarter Mortgage Lady, I have helped a number of people with short term debt, buy a home. Consolidating short term debt might mean that you can afford the house you want and can get the maximum mortgage you need to do it, but it can mean you pay more for the short term debt in the long run.
Using savings to pay off short term debt may mean you don’t pay more for the debt when you get a mortgage, but may affect your ability to buy a house as it will reduce your deposit.”
Here’s a quick video from Rachael about the pre-approval process.
Which leads us beautifully into the next topic…….
Know your numbers
Understanding your finances and the maximum loan amount you can get gives you a firm idea of what you will be spending on a new home. A pre-approval letter shows the home seller or estate agent that you are a serious buyer, which can give you an advantage over home buyers who do not. [Sources: 2, 13]
If you want access to Rachael’s ‘Pre-approve Yourself‘ spreadsheet so you can get an accurate idea of the numbers, send her a message by clicking here!
Future proof for family
If you plan to expand your family in the near future, make sure that the new home fits your plans, be it extra space for a new baby, a daughter-in-law suite, a master bedroom or move to a state that welcomes many visitors. A good floor plan makes good use of the square area and fits what you want for your new home. If your family has mobility problems or you are planning to age your house, consider whether you want a house with stairs. [Sources: 0, 4, 5]
Create your wishlist
Today’s homebuyers juggle many different priorities when buying a home and these characteristics are rated from the most important to least important by most buyers according to the Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends Report 2019. Understanding which features mean the most will help eliminate houses that don’t work for you when you compare houses. Let us review a few things to look out for when buying a new home. [Sources: 0, 3, 5]
Should you use an agent?
Finding a top local agent with negotiating experience is be one of the most important things you can do during the purchase process. While there is nothing wrong with researching online property portals or visiting an open house on your own, an experienced broker can be your best ally if you are serious about your first home, especially if you have not yet gone through the process. Each real estate agent is different, so it’s important that Realtors.com (R) goes through and explains everything, including working with real estate agents, and guides you through working with one to help you get the most out of the buying process. [Sources: 2, 11]
Look out for hidden costs
There are many costs associated with your new potential home, including the cost of insurance, bank fees, lawyers fees property taxes, and depending on where you live, they can quickly add up. [Sources: 1]
Many people are tempted to buy more of a home than they can afford, believing they can save their mortgage interest and later make up for it. At this point it only makes sense if you have the money and plan on staying at home for a long time. [Sources: 1, 13]
Tinted moisturisers and light powders are an ideal base make-up for daytime.
Soft, neutral colours should be used on the apples of the cheeks. A small amount of highlighter can be used above the cheekbones.
Eye make-up should consist of soft, natural colors that suit the skin tone, eye color and hair color of the client.
Line the top lashes softly with light brown or grey eyeliner, and apply a light coat of mascara. If the lashes are thick and dark, or if you have lash extensions, you could forgo mascara altogether.
Comb and groom eyebrows without overdrawing.
It is best to go light and natural for the lips. Tinted lip balms and clear lip gloss are easy, popular options.
Amping it up
This style of make-up is ideal for the latter part of the day or for job interviews. Do you go to the gym on your lunch break and redo your make-up afterward? Now is the time to bump the intensity up a notch.
Eyes: Matte and metallic eye shadows are both acceptable—just make sure the shades are well blended and no hard lines are present. The top and bottom lashes can be lined with a medium-to-dark eye shadow, and dark-toned eyeliner can be applied lightly above the top lashes. Add a coat of black mascara, and make sure eyebrows are perfectly groomed.
Cheeks: Apply blush a shade darker than you would for daytime make-up, and lightly contour under the cheekbones, blending well.
Lips: Medium-toned lipstick or gloss is appropriate. A light lining of the lip with lip liner is acceptable but not necessary.
Here are a few nude make-up tips:
Apply a lightweight foundation, such as a tinted moisturizer or light powder.
Light, neutral shadow shades should be used on the eyes. Beige, pink and peach are great options.
Eye liner isn’t necessary. If you wish to emphasize the eyes, lightly line them with a neutral eye shadow.
Mascara isn’t necessary. However, if you do choose to use it, apply only a light coat.
For the cheeks, either apply a light contour under the cheekbone or apply a sweep of neutral color to the apples of the cheeks.
Either colorless lip balm or nude lipstick is best for this look.
Overcoming Anorexia: Healing My Relationship With Food
Some years ago I was chatting with Masterchef Ray McVinnie, someone I respect deeply. Not only is Ray an incredible Chef, his food philosophies and straight to the point, no nonsense approach to food is refreshing.
Over our 15 years of working together at the Food Show, one of the questions I would always get asked was ‘Why, if you’re a Chef, are you so skinny?’ his answer was always the same: ‘I watch what I eat. I eat when I’m hungry. I go for a walk. I eat a wide variety of foods. I eat a lot of plant and I just don’t stress about it.’
I remember clearly at one stage over that 15 year journey when I was desperate to lose weight and was obsessed with drinking protein shakes as meal replacements to help with my weight loss, Ray walked past me and said ‘What’s that love?’ I replied, showing him the packet. He looked at me and very seriously said ‘This is not real food. These ingredients are chemicals. This stuff will kill ya. JUST EAT REAL FOOD, NOT TOO MUCH AND YOU’LL BE FINE.’ I felt like a naughty school girl in the principals office.
Me with my Mum and Dad.
It was hard being the fat kid. My parents were awesome and pro celebrating all my amazingness. The bullying from both children and adults however, was horrific and chipped away at my confidence.
In my experience, I felt like I was never good enough, never acceptable and food was my solace. That moment of getting a sugar rush from bingeing on biscuits or chocolate was intoxicating and like any ‘addict’, dulled the pain of those humiliating taunts……..for a short period of time……until I needed to do it again and again.
I remember when I was about 7 being questioned about hiding food. There was always an open pantry policy in my house, and plenty to eat, but I still had this need to sneak treats, hide them and languish in the sugary rush. My earliest memory of hiding food this way was when I was about 5 and that behaviour continued for me into adulthood.
Fast forward to 1992. I was in my first year at university. This was my daily routine:
Breakfast: usually a cup of tea with biscuits sandwiched together with butter
Bus to University
Go to the Uni cafe to do work and eat a pinwheel cheese and bacon scone, washed down with a litre of coke
Lunch: a bowl of wedges with chicken salt and sour cream
Afternoon tea: a Quarter Pounder or a giant custard square
Bus home
Then dinner……
Not a picture of health and I’m assuming, as you probably didn’t know me then you didn’t know what I looked like. I was big. I was a size 22-24. I puffed walking to the letterbox and stretched all of my t shirts to make them look baggy.
Now keep in mind that I was an adult at this stage and could make conscious healthy choices, but I was and had been for many years, an absolute obsessive food addict. Part of this obsession let me to eat the same thing every day which is why I remember it all so clearly and while I’m a firm believer in ‘letting food be thy medicine’ in this instance, food was my pain suppressant for a number of reasons and I can freely admit that being 19 and morbidly obese is not a lot of fun to be fair.
My first turning point
I still remember it so vividly: I was invited out with friends to an ‘all you can eat’ Pizza Buffet restaurant and gladly accepted the challenge. A large pizza, fries, pasta and coke were all consumed and by the time I got home that night, I knew something wasn’t right. I sat on my bed and firstly got the cold shivers, then had a hot flush and that’s when the heart palpitations set in. I was tipping the scales at 110+ kilos, I was a size 22-24, miserable and experiencing my first full blown anxiety attack.
I literally thought I was dying. I lost my Dad in August of 1991 and believe that part of what I was experiencing was associated with grief and post traumatic stress. I also saw my Dad struggle for years with heart conditions so assumed I had the same condition but was literally too anxious to ask for help. So I self medicated and hid it from the world.
Control
Eating disorders, anxiety and depression, or as I called them ‘The Holy Trinity’, for me all had very similar central cores which I believe from my experience to be about control. (Please note: I’m not a doctor or healthcare professional. This is simply my observations from my own experience and if you’re struggling or if any of this blog resonates with you, I urge you to talk to someone and ask for help. Doing it alone, as I did, is hard work!) It’s a case of ‘when things around you are out of control, you have to take control again in whatever way you can.’ For me, it had always been associated with food.
When you’re bullied, as I was, what people say about you is out of your control. Bullies have an opinion of who you are and your value in the world and, particularly if it happens when you’re a child, it really affects how you perceive yourself. Science proves that repeated messaging creates neural pathways in the brain that affects our behaviours and our choices. I was constantly reminded as a child, as a teen and an adult, that I was fat. I was ugly. I was called ‘the Titanic’, ‘The Whale’ and one of the worst insults was when another child asked me if I ‘ate a tyre for breakfast because it was showing on my stomach’. Bullying is not new and sadly many of us experience it. We also all process it differently and can in our adult lives re-wire our programming to ensure those messages no longer affect us. My response at the time, in my chaos driven out of control world, was to control what I ate, using sugar and processed foods because their intoxicating ‘short term rush producing chemicals’ was a way to put my world back together again. Food was literally my medication for most of my life.
Grief
Losing a family member at any stage of your life is hard. After losing my Dad at the age of 18, I started controlling what I ate by bingeing to help medicate myself and gain control again. It’s a common story I hear from many people experiencing grief, trauma or stress – or it goes the other way and you don’t eat at all – also a control issue.
Anxiety
Anxiety is another control reaction. Your fight or flight response literally goes haywire letting you know that you’re not safe and that things are out of control. I now understand that this can be triggered by exhausted adrenal glands that are so used to overworking, they continue to remind you that the world is in chaos. At the time when I experienced this, it WAS chaos and the anxiety lasted for 15 years, sometimes with multiple panic attacks throughout the day.
In my situation, being a size 22 – 24, experiencing panic attacks or anxiety for the first time I had no idea what was going on. My only assumption (because I was too scared to go to the doctor and there was no ‘Dr Google’ back then) was that I was having similar heart problems as my father and literally overnight a switch was flicked. I researched every diet in every magazine. I was low fat and sugar free everything. My diet changed substantially from 2000-3000 calories a day to just 700. Suddenly it was an apple and a diet drink for breakfast, a bun with something in it for lunch and some vegetables and a diet drink for dinner. That was it! The the apple was skipped and when a friend told me that bread was essentially ’empty calories’, I skipped the vegetables as well.
I can sadly say, it was exhilarating. Suddenly my mind had changed and I began to think about and obsess about all the food I wasn’t eating and all the calories I was saving. I was losing weight FAST and the comments and the attention were amazing. Size 22 dropped to an 18, to a 16, Large to medium and then suddenly: My first proper pair of jeans – a size 11. But it didn’t stop there! I’d already come this far and like all of my other eating addictions, I needed the rush.
I lost more and more. I was starting to wear children’s clothes and I loved that I could lift up my top and see my ribcage.
The last time I weighed myself I was just 42 kilos and this process happened in just 8 harrowing, addictive, anxious months. 68 kilos in 8 months: That’s like losing a whole person! And that’s exactly what happened. I lost weight, I lost my personality and the other downside was that I had loads of excess skin and my boobs ended up looking like a couple of pancakes with a raisin on the end. Sorry for the overshare, but I believe in sharing the honest truth here.
I was also working in retail and I have vivid memories of taking home food magazines and spending evenings ripping out the recipe pages, storing them in a box for when I would become a TV chef, while languishing in all the calories I was burning every time I ripped another delicious recipe out of a publication. The irony of this is that I couldn’t actually cook, so I have no idea what crazy manic episode I was experiencing, but the rush was real.
It was around this time that I started hearing the term ‘Anorexia’ thrown around by a number of people. My arms and legs were stick thin and it wasn’t until I ended up in hospital after collapsing in a toilet in a bar that I thought something wasn’t quite right. It wasn’t so much the collapsing that did it, but the fact that when I was being dressed in the hospital to go home, my size 10 leggings were loose and falling down and my hip bones were sticking out. That was the first time in the harrowing experience that I admitted to myself that something was wrong. I spoke to a Doctor about it and was told that ‘the eating disorder will never leave me’ and for 20+ years he was right.
Anorexia in my experience, was also about control. I couldn’t control the world around me, but I could control what I ate – or didn’t eat – every day. I could also control the fact that if I ate certain foods, they triggered symptoms of irritable bowel, something I secretly loved as it ‘gave me a good clean out’. I can’t even believe that I’ve just admitted that……..
Over the following years I got into relationships, ate and socialised and gained a lot of weight, then through separations I would end up on what one of my friends recently described as the ‘post relationship sadness diet’ losing vast amounts of weight again. However underneath it all, what really haunted me was this constant control issue chipping away at my happiness and helping me find order in the midst of all the chaos. I would tell myself over and over again that the Doctor was right – I would always be plagued by this crippling eating disorder, this constant voice of self loathing and feeling of inadequacy……until I changed my focus.
Over this time I did many jobs, from working in a bank, to a massage therapy clinic and I also opened my own performing arts school to help build confidence and self esteem in young people. I also worked in the field of children’s entertainment and trained with a magician who taught me the art of misdirection.
Misdirection is a way of directing the focus of an audience to my left hand, so they don’t see what I’m pulling out of my pocket with my right hand. Parents do it instinctively when their little one falls over and cries. They instantly pick up the child and get them to ‘look at the pretty butterfly’. In that very moment, not only does the crying stop, so does the child’s pain which comes down to the fact that the brain can only process a certain amount of data at any one time. This concept was totally fascinating to me and I started to apply the same principals to my own life.
A panic attack would happen and I would consciously focus on something different: on the scenery, my breathing or a funny comedy video. I’d then have a glass of water and tell myself that ‘I am safe and all is ok’. Through this process alone, I consciously started to create new neural pathways in my brain and after 15 years of horrific panic attacks, they began to subside. If you’re a bit surprised by this, well so was I.
As I started to regain control in this way, I started making better food choices and it’s pretty clear that when we eat better and provide our bodies with better nutrition, our brain functions better too. As a result, we make even more better choices and that continues to grow.
And now, I sit here 25 years later and can happily admit that I no longer live with an eating disorder. What changed this? By misdirecting my paralysing fear of food, into a love affair WITH food.
In August of 2017 when my weight was all over the place and my health was terrible, I discovered that I was carbohydrate intolerant. Finally I had to learn to cook, which resulted in the opening of a whole new world to me, and with it, profound healing. I learned that I could consciously control what I eat in such a positive way that affected my health, my mindset, my energy and my happiness and the negative controlling thoughts started to fade away. Now instead of waking up each day thinking of how many calories I’m not going to eat, I think about the possibilities of flavours, combinations, experiments and adventures.
We are all products of our own creation. We always have choice. We may not like our options but we always have choice, so while our subconscious mind with all it’s intricate neural pathways contributes to our personalities, our choices and behaviours, the power to change our lives is held in our conscious minds.
For some people getting treatment to overcome their eating disorder is vital. That may be in the form of counselling, medication, cognitive treatments or what ever it takes, but know that the choice to get help is the most powerful as it’s one made by the conscious mind, in that one fleeting moment when we misdirect our thoughts away from that obsessive enigma of control and choose to look in a new direction.
I read somewhere that we are what we think about. What we CONSCIOUSLY think about.
Where are your thoughts at? Be well X
IF YOU NEED HELP PLEASE REACH OUT
An eating disorder is a condition that involves eating in a disordered way, such as eating very little or very large amounts of food, or purging (getting rid of) food you have eaten.
Women are more likely to develop an eating disorder, but anyone of any age may develop one.
The causes of eating disorders are complex and don’t involve just one factor.
Getting support is crucial to recovery, so seek help sooner than later. If eating disorders are not treated, they can result in serious medical problems.
However, with treatment, most people with an eating disorder make a good recovery, although it may take several years.
People at risk of an eating disorder often have experienced the following:
having feelings of low self-esteem or worthlessness
living in a western culture in which being thin is considered the ideal body shape
living in an urban area
taking part in activities in which body image is a concern (eg, professional or competitive dancing, gymnastics or fashion modelling)
having a history of strict dieting and body dissatisfaction
having lived in an environment in which leanness or obesity has been a concern
experiencing depression or loneliness
being a perfectionist or impulsive, or having difficulty managing emotions
migrating from a developing country to a western culture
experiencing stressful life changes (eg, leaving home to go to university, a relationship breakup or the physical bodily changes of puberty)
having experienced physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
What should I do if I have an eating disorder?
Self-care and getting support from others is vital in recovering from an eating disorder and feeling happy again. If eating disorders are not treated, they can result in serious medical problems, so seek help sooner than later.
Start by talking to your GP as they can refer you to an eating disorder specialist who understands what you are going through and knows how to help you. Find out more about eating disorder services in New Zealand.
Has lockdown left you craving a good curry? We hear you! As dedicated foodies, we’ve scoured UberEats to try and find the best butter chicken in the market to serve those curry cravings and it seems that Little India in Glen Eden delivers the perfect balance of creamy goodness and a raft of options.
The Little India Story
Little India has restaurants all over NZ and was actually the originator of my first Indian Food experience in my early 20’s in Wellington. As a previously prudish foodie, my mother – a cooking teacher – took Indian cooking classes to expand her repertoire and her favourite dish, a dry version of Aloo Ghobi, was a delightful twist on my favourite food – chips. After all, potatoes are life! To then turn up at a restaurant that served this uniquely, scrumptious dish AND heavenly pockets of puffy garlic bread style goodness……well…..my life was complete. Now some 20 something years later, I’m in a different city, but still a huge fan.
Original owners of the franchise, Sukhi and Joanna Gill started their journey as business owners and entrepreneurs with a small dairy, and adjoining fish and chip shop, in Ravensbourne just outside Dunedin. When Sukhi’s mother and father visited from India, Sukhi decided to add a few Indian dishes to the fish and chip shop’s menu. Soon there were lines of people down the street wanting to enjoy the new Indian dishes. With a single electric stove struggling to keep up with demand, Joanna (a chef) and Sukhi (an accountant) decided to open a New Zealand Indian restaurant.
– www.littleindia.co.nz
The restaurant group finally launched as its own entity in 1991 and since then restaurants have popped up around the country, owned by hardworking people with incredible stories. Little India Glen Eden is a great example of this.
Owned by Bobby Arora, the venue is BRILLIANT (make sure you visit when the levels allow) with a special mezzanine for more private group dining and Indian inspired booths giving you a taste of Bobby’s gorgeous homeland.
The food is next level.
Having visited India a few years ago, this is the closest food I’ve found that matches the authentic flavours I experienced first hand.
But wait – there’s more……
One of the really stand out moments for me largely living my life as a ‘low carber’ is the option of cauliflower rice. Light, fluffy and delicious with no ‘carbo coma’ or the usual tummy tantrums that I experienced with white rice, meaning I can literally have my curry and eat it too. Can life get any better?
If you haven’t tried their food, it’s a must. Download their app and get it delivered or order for contactless pickup. You’ll thank me later.
Why Are Adjustable Beds Important For Your Health?
Tired of sleeping on a mattress that doesn’t suit your needs? Do you wake up in the morning feel tired and sore OR do you struggle with arthritis or injuries?
A great mattress and an adjustable bed could make all the difference and provide you with the ultimate bedtime and restorative sleep experience you’re looking for without disturbing your partner!
How can an adjustable bed help your back pain?
Recent research conducted with both men and women aged between 29 and 60 showed that people who struggle with back pain noticed a significant difference when sleeping on an adjustable bed, as opposed to a normal flat bed. The reasoning behind that is in a normal bed, we’re often restricted to a horizontal position, however we naturally move as we sleep to reduce pressure on pain spots. With adjustable beds, you can lift the upper and lower half of the bed to relieve pressure from those sore spots, enabling you to sleep more deeply. [Sources: 3, 13]
How can an adjustable bed relieve pain points?
As an example, if you’re struggling with lower back pain and want to lift your legs to relieve that pain, the lower part of the bed can be lifted at the push of a button. An adjustable base allows for easy lifting of the legs into a more comfortable position, reduces swelling and increases wellbeing. [Sources: 16, 17]
Adjustable beds allow for better ergonomic support
You can adjust a movable bed frame as closely as possible to your natural body curve to relieve back pain and help improve conditions such as sciatica. If you need to raise your legs to relieve pressure on your spine or specifially the sciatic nerve, or if you want to raise your head to relieve neck pain, you can move the adjustable bed according to your needs. [Sources: 4, 8]
Adjustable beds may help provide relief to chronic conditions
One of the main advantages of adjustable electric beds is that they provide pain relief for patients with chronic conditions such as arthritis and sciatica and improve the quality of life for people with these conditions due to providing a deeper more restorative sleep. You can change the position of the electric bed at an angle that suits you so that they can lie in a sleeping position that takes the pressure off painful areas. Electric adjustable beds can help relieve pain and increase mobility – resulting in positive physical benefits and enhancing the psychological well-being of users who feel more independent in their daily lives. [Sources: 13]
Adjustable beds are fully customisable
As adjustable beds are comprised of several different sections, this allows you to lift parts of the frame to become a more ergonomic bed to relieve pressure from the legs and torso, thereby alleviating chronic back pain, nerve problems and much more. Adjusting the natural shape of your spine on an adjustable bed base can help reduce pressure points on your back, relieve pain and give you the restful sleep you deserve. [Sources: 6, 9]
An adjustable bed may also help improve your breathing AND your mobility
With an adjustable bed frame, you can sleep in an angled position which can improve airflow and open nasal passages, enabling a more comfortable and uninterrupted sleep. Likewise, breathing problems such as sleep apnea and asthma during sleep may also be reduced if the bed frame allows the head to be raised. Adjustable beds not only help you find the best sleeping position and relieve pressure and sore spots, but sleepers can also use adjustable bed remotes to help them get out of bed. [Sources: 1, 3]
Can an adjustable bed help with other health problems?
With an electrically adjustable bed, you can trial a different sleeping position which may lower your physical pain point pressure as well as your blood pressure, and allow increased blood circulation. You can fine-tune the position of your body to reduce pressure on your joints and pain points and allow your blood flow to move more efficiently through the heart, to the body. [Sources: 3, 16]
A restful sleep leads to a calmer mind
Knowing the right type of adjustable base and bed frame gives you more freedom in choosing your sleeping position. You can position the adjustable bed frame so that it lies flat or move it in multiple positions and angles until you find the most comfortable sleeping position. Studies show that Insomnia can often contribute to intensifying pain and an anxious mind, and adjustable bed frames offer numerous positioning options to provide comfort and a better sleeping experience. [Sources: 10, 14, 16]
No more partner disturbance!
Couples often find that with certain adjustable bed frames and mattresses they can adjust their own side of the bed according to their personal preferences for sleeping position and angle without disturbing their partner. [Sources: 14]
Snoring, sleep apnea, asthma and breathing problems can be reduced by an adjustable bed frame with an elevated head. With an adjustable frame, the head lift of the beds generates enough gravity to relieve pressure from the windpipe, reducing snoring habits. Lifting the head of the adjustable bed frame helps to lift the mattress and give them a place to sleep. [Sources: 3, 16]
Adjustable bed can reduce stress by supporting relaxation
Adjustable beds provide an elevated sitting position which may help reduce neck and back pain. If you suffer from oedema, arthritis, back pain or acid reflux and are stuck on a bed or enjoy activities such as reading, watching TV or working on a laptop in bed, adjustable beds can make both sleep and waking times more pleasant. [Sources: 8, 11, 15]
SO we believe there’s many reasons why it’s worth investing in an adjustable bed and know that with the push of a button you can move yourself to the position you require for ultimate comfort.
Whether you’re wanting to lie completely flat or more upright, if you need the optimal sitting or TV watching position, it’s all up to you! Beds n Lounge Direct have a great option in the video below, so check it out!
Topped with luxurious natural latex and cooling gel memory foam, this adjustable bed will provide you with the support you need for a premium sleep, and is ideal if you are suffering from back pain or arthritis.
So improve your sleep and your health now with a more restful and personalised slumber. That’s exactly what an electric adjustable bed can do for you!!!
Why not check out the amazing Electric Adjustable Beds from Beds and Lounge Direct! With easy payment options and the lowest prices in the market, you’ll never pay retail again!
O. M. G. Get ready to blow your own mind with this super simple piece of heaven – the ultimate Air Fryer Cheese Scones or Muffins recipe – which is Keto, low carb and gluten free! These bad boys are soft and unlike keto oven scones I’ve made previously, not hard and grainy…..a much nicer recipe and more muffin like.
As they are cooked them in the air fryer they are soft, lush and ready in about 10 -12 mins, so the whole thing took me about 15 mins. Most importantly, don’t over mix them and you’ll ensure your scone / muffins don’t look like the elephant man. Also, leave them to set and cool a little once cooked, as these are really cheesy and gooey and need to firm up after cooking.
Sample air fryer
Ingredients
2 tbsp butter, melted
1 cup almond flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup grated cheese (I use mozzarella, but tasty or cheddar would be amazing)
2 large eggs
2 tbsp sour cream
Method
Heat air frier at 200 degrees centigrade for 3 mins
Melt butter, add almond flour, baking powder and salt and combine.
Add eggs and sour cream and mix, then add cheese and combine. Remember not to over mix.
This is quite a wet recipe, so I recommend using muffin cases or silicon muffin cups OR place a circle of grease proof paper on your air frier tray and place 1/4 cup spoonfuls on the paper. Be prepared for flattish muffins though – and you’ll only have room for around 4 at a time.
I used silicon cups and cooked 4 at a time for around 10 – 12 mins at 200 degrees centigrade.
Should make 6-8 depending on your serving size.
Once cooked, leave to cool a little as the cheesy goodness needs to set.
Serve with butter and dance around experiencing great joy and mouthgasms.
The Natural Benefits of Caithy Organics Skincare: Product Review
With the sheer amount of skincare brands out in the market, it can be hard to find what products will actually work for you. The ingredient lists on the back aren’t much help since it’s difficult to pronounce most of them, much less know what they actually are. That’s why Caithy Organics is such a breath of fresh air.
What makes Caithy Organics different?
Caithy Organics is a New Zealand-based skincare brand that’s all about creating pure and organic products that will feed and nourish your skin with the best that nature has to offer. New Zealand is known for its beautiful and diverse natural landscapes, and many of its native plants contain incredible properties that will work wonders on your skin. Thus, it only makes sense to nurture your skin with these natural ingredients rather than synthetic ones.
Caithy Organics sources its ingredients from New Zealand’s forests and lands to create the purest and safest skincare products possible. What’s even better is that the brand was started by people who struggled with skin issues themselves, so they truly and intimately know the struggles of trying to achieve clear skin. After finding out how beneficial organic and natural ingredients were, Caithy Organics was created to share those secrets with the rest of us.
The Products:
Caithy Organics has generously sent me some of their products to try out, so I wanted to share how I use and incorporate them into my daily skincare routine.
Instant Hydrating Mist Toner
After cleansing my face with a gentle facial cleanser (I use CeraVe’s Hydrating Facial Cleanser), I tried out Caithy Organic’s Instant Hydrating Mist Toner. This product is great for any time of the day when your skin needs a quick refresher, and the spray application makes it easy to apply. My favorite thing about the mist toner is the floral smell it has. Caithy Organics doesn’t use synthetic fragrances, so the pleasant scent comes from Rose Floral Water, Organic Lavender. The product also contains Witch Hazel Bark/Leaf Extract, which is known to help with the appearance of dry or damaged skin and restore your skin’s elasticity.
Skin Brightening Exfoliator
Next, I applied Caithy Organic’s Skin Brightening Exfoliator. Unlike many other exfoliators, this one was very gentle on the skin, but even so, after using it, my skin definitely felt smoother and looked brighter. What’s special about this product is that it uses Walnut Shell Powder rather than microbeads to exfoliate your skin. This natural and eco-friendly ingredient helps to gently remove any skin impurities and dull surface cells, which helps leave your skin instantly smooth and radiant.
Skin Firming Concentrate Oil
After toning and exfoliating my skin, I used Caithy Organic’s Skin Firming Concentrate Oil. This product has many benefits including improving scarring, skin tone, fine lines, and wrinkles. It also helps boost your skin’s elasticity, firmness, and brightness.
How does it do all that? Well, the product contains Organic Rosehip Oil, which is full of vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that help moisturize your skin, combat anti-aging, and fight pollutants. It also has Avocado Oil, which contains a high percentage of Vitamin E, potassium, lecithin, and many other nutrients that nourish and moisturize your skin. The oleic acid found inside avocados promotes collagen production, meaning it helps to grow new skin, accelerating your skin’s healing process.
Caithy Organic’s Marula Rich Moisturizer was the product I was most looking forward to trying out. I had heard so many amazing things about what Marula Oil can do, such as hydrating and softening your skin and offering antioxidant protection. It also has anti-inflammatory effects and some antibacterial properties. As you continue to use Marula Oil, your skin’s surface will become stronger and it can even help to reverse the adverse effects of sun damage.
Not to mention, the product is great for anti-aging as it’s enriched with plant-based peptides. I also loved the light and pleasant scent of the moisturizer. It’s recommended to apply the moisturizer twice a day, so I’ve incorporated it into my morning and nighttime routine.
Natural Sunblock
Sunscreen is the most important product you need in your morning routine because we need to be protecting our skin from harmful sun rays. Applying Caithy Organic’s Natural Sunblock is the last step in my skincare routine and this product is great because it’s made for sensitive skin and has SPF 50 and UVA and UVB protection. The sunblock is a quite heavier and thicker product, so you need to be careful to rub it into your skin evenly.
The sunblock contains Kiwifruit Extract, an excellent source of antioxidants that help defend your skin from the visible effects of airborne pollutants. The special ingredient, however, is the extract of a native New Zealand plant called Pohutukawa. Pohutukawa is a native New Zealand tree that is known for its revitalizing and skin conditioning properties. In fact, it’s used topically in traditional Maori herbal medicine for wounds and abrasions. The bark of Pohutukawa contains Ellagic Acid which contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help calm and soothe red, irritated skin.
What did I think of the products?
As someone who is quite sensitive to smell, all of the products either had a light and pleasant fragrance or an unnoticeable one. I particularly enjoyed the floral scent of the Instant Hydrating Mist Toner and the fruity scent of the Skin Brightening Exfoliator. I also struggle with blackheads around my nose area and some skin texture issues, which I think the exfoliator and the Skin Firming Concentrate Oil will definitely help with as I continue to use it. Moisturizer and sunscreen have always been important products to help hydrate and protect my skin, so the Marula Rich Moisturizer and Natural Sunblock are new staples in my skincare routine.
If you take a look at the video above, you can see my skin visibly becoming brighter after using the Caithy Organics products, so, overall, I am very pleased with the results. It’s even better knowing that everything I’m putting on my skin is natural and clean.
If you would like to check out other Caithy Organics products or reviews, click the link here to go to their website:Caithy Organics
Accessories are magical. They have the ability to spice up what could’ve been a plain and boring outfit and turn it into a well-thought-out, carefully crafted look. My personal favorite accessories are earrings since they frame your face and are so easy to dress up and down. There are fun, patterned earrings for casual get-togethers with friends, but there are also elegant, diamond earrings for fancy dress-up dinners. Today, I wanted to show you some of my favorite earrings trends pulled right from my own collection.
Dangly
Dangly earrings are particularly fun since they create so much movement around your ears. While they can also sometimes be short, the dangly earrings I chose are more on the longer side. The first pair of earrings are best paired with a more dressed-up outfit. The gold diamond chain is connected by little pearls, creating a stylish and decorative look.
If you’re looking for something a little simpler and more understated, then the second pair of earrings are for you. Even though it’s just a silver thread, these are one of my go-to earrings because they make every outfit look so classy. The silver will especially stand out and glitter if you have darker hair.
Pearls
Pearl earrings are a timeless classic. They’re so simple and elegant, and they make every outfit a little more sophisticated. The first pair are just some small, pearl stud earrings. They match well with everything and are so light, you barely feel that they’re there.
The next pair of earrings are slightly fancier as there is some extra gold detailing to what would otherwise also be a simple pearl stud. I particularly love these earrings because, if you look closely, there’s a small “C”, which not only is a nod to my name, but also gives off Chanel vibes.
Chains
The next couple of earrings are what I like to call my “K-Pop Idol” earrings. Basically, they’re what I imagine the members of a cool K-Pop group would wear. Chain earrings are great for when you want to achieve a more streetwear style.
While the first pair of chain earrings look quite bold and chunky, they don’t feel heavy on the ears. This pair is especially interesting because they’re an asymmetrical set. One earring is a drop-style earring, and the other has a chain that loops around to the back of the ear.
The second set of earrings are a smaller, more simple pair of chain earrings. They’re great for adding a little more edge to your look, while not being too over the top.
Statement
Statement earrings live up to their name – they’re loud and bold and make their presence known. The first pair of statement earrings are an elegant, but flashy pair of chandelier earrings. The crystals give off a bright sparkle and help to draw attention.
The next set of earrings are a little funkier. They’re drop-style earrings, and the gold background helps the black part of the earring not be drowned out by my dark hair. The earrings are sophisticated and sleek, but the gold adds a pop of color to help them stand out.
Hearts
Heart earrings are perfect for when you want to create a sweet, youthful look. I actually bought the first pair of earrings at a market in Thailand, and they’re a great addition for when I want a more retro, fun vibe. My favorite detail is the fuzzy plaid detailing inside the heart.
If you want something sweet and simple, the second pair of heart earrings are just that. The hearts on these earrings are an outline and dangle down low near your neck. The gold especially pops against my dark hair.
Hoops
Hoop earrings are another timeless classic that helps spice up any outfit. The first pair of hoop earrings are not the traditional, loop-around-the-ear type. However, I like that the earrings are front-facing because then the circles are clearly seen, and they still give off the illusion of hoop earrings.
The next pair of earrings are a more classic hoop style. I love that they’re a little chunky and that the silver color reflects light, giving the earrings a little more shimmer. These are definitely one of my go-to earrings since they pair well with nearly every outfit and helps to elevate the look.
And those were some of my favorite earrings trends. There was a wide variety of different styles, so I hope you gained some inspiration for your next earrings purchase. If you want to see how I styled some of these earrings with different outfits, you can check out my summer lookbook here: https://guidetobettershopping.com/episodes/my-top-5-summer-looks-of-2021-by-cindy-gu/
Making the World a Better Place With Charity Tea – Product Review
There’s nothing quite like the warmth a cup of tea brings you on a cold day. But what if we told you that warmth could be amplified by knowing your tea purchase is doing good in the world? Charity Tea is doing just that by offering you a tea that not only tastes good but feels good.
What is Charity Tea?
Charity Tea is a New Zealand social enterprise business selling tea that nourishes. We’re not just saying that their products are healthy and delicious (which they are). But what’s even more amazing is that Charity Tea helps to provide thousands of meals to children both in New Zealand and overseas. You can rest easy knowing that with every purchase you make, you are receiving high-quality, organic, and ethically sourced tea while also providing a child in need a meal.
How did this all start?
Charity Tea began when Gill Bredl, the founder, received a phone call from Haiti. Her friend, who was working for a non-profit there, told her about a baby girl who was starving and asked if Gill was willing to help her. She agreed and sent money to feed the child for a year, but quickly realized this wasn’t an isolated incident.
She found out that many children in Haiti only had 1 or 2 meals a day, so she started a charity asking friends and family to donate money to help those children. As she was working on this charity, she also learned that many children right in New Zealand were going to school without lunch and felt compelled to help them as well. So, she decided to start a business that would generate revenue to help feed kids.
How did Gill land on a tea business? Well, she had a dream! No, literally. One night, Gill dreamt that she started a tea company called Charity Tea and it became super successful. Thus, Charity Tea was created, and the rest is history.
Watch the video to hear Gill tell you more about the story of Charity Tea and why she’s so passionate about it:
Charity Tea’s Impact
Charity Tea doesn’t stop their work at just providing meals to children, they give back to the community in a variety of other ways:
They minimize negative environmental impacts by making sure their packaging is biodegradable, compostable, refillable or recyclable.
In an effort to combat climate change, they offset around 120% of their carbon footprint for all business activity in 2019.
They make sure that the workers from where they source their tea from receive fair wages and good working conditions.
The Tea Itself
Charity Tea offers a wide variety of flavors, ranging from Jasmine, Peach, Chamomile, Peppermint, Green tea, and more. Their high-quality organic tea is blended by herbal experts to provide the greatest health benefits. To make sure you never run out of the good stuff, they also offer what’s called “Tea Plans” that will deliver a personalized tea kit every month straight to your door! And if you want to switch it up, they make it really easy for you to change your plan or the flavors in your subscription.
How To Makeover Your Own Home With Skyte Furnishings
Have you been thinking of making over your own home and adding in a little more personality? We all know that home renovations can be really costly, however New Zealand based company Skyte are ready to make your makeovers easy and as unique as you are!
Who is Skyte Furnishings?
Skyte Furnishings makes attractive and beautiful bedroom and lounge furniture that is hard to find, and sure to delight! When you head to their website, you’ll discover a wide range of bespoke and customisable products guaranteed to brighten up your home, with an array of colours personally selected from some of the best fabric houses in New Zealand.
The manufacturer at the heart of Skyte has been producing quality upholstered furniture for more than 30 years and is now bringing this new concept of ‘customisable furniture’, paired with time honoured craftsmanship to consumers, supported with a 15 year frame warranty!
How do you order Skyte furniture?
In this video, TV presenter Monique Bradley goes through the process of transforming her own home using one of Skyte’s signature pieces as the central part of her makeover. Monique lives in a central city loft apartment in Auckland and while it’s a great place, like most inner city apartments, it’s full of plain white walls and lacking in personality.
The real challenge with this project is that Monique doesn’t have the budget for a full makeover and there’s still a lot of life left in her existing furniture. SO: what should she do?
By adding a signature piece from Skyte to Monique’s existing lounge, it was an easy way to add a pop of colour. Monique chose the Paihia Botanist Chair, a classic and fun design, and with the click of a button, was able to customise the print.
Watch the video to see the transformation!
Having the feature piece from Skyte was the key to her transformation and helped Monique create a place she loves. By utilising key colours in the fabric, she was able to bring together a beautiful palette of colours to add more personality to the space, making it feel like HOME. They also do Bean Bags, Ottomans, Cushions, and storage boxes in complementary colours, so make sure you have a full look through their website!
SKYTE: Kiwi made, bespoke furniture to suit your style and your budget. CHECK THEM OUT NOW!
