Why Cats Are Important For Humans – with Anne Batley – Burton
In this video, Anne Batley – Burton, one of the stars of TV show ‘The Housewives Of Auckland’ and founder of the NZ Cat Foundation shares why having a cat is actually important for humans and their wellbeing!
Sadly, there are many abandoned and unwanted cats and kittens in our communities. Anne and the aim of the NZ Cat Foundation is to de-sex, vaccinate, and microchip every stray cat, in the hope that one day each of them will have a loving home.
What does the NZ Cat Foundation do?
The NZ Cat Foundation is committed to educating the community, particularly New Zealand youth. Education of our new generation is paramount, teaching our young people to embrace their responsibility to care for their cats. The foundations stance is that we do not have a “cat problem”; we have a “people problem” so Anne is doing her part to educate and inspire others to love and look after cats – whether they’re domesticated or strays – in the most humane way possible.
The foundation, based in Huapai, provides a sanctuary to more than 200 unwanted stray or elderly cats in a protected environment where all their needs are met in an indoor/outdoor environment. They are attended too through the kindness of volunteers who regularly give up their time to clean the facilities, feed the cats and give them the care and attention they deserve.
If you’d like to donate to support the incredible work Anne and her volunteers are doing to ‘help the helpless’ please do on their website: https://www.thenzcatfoundation.org.nz/
Meet Hamish Kofoed: real estate agent by day and motorsport enthusiast all the rest of the time! Hamish opens up his journey into racing and all the wonderful characters involved, including 19 year old Jordyn Wallace, who has her sights set on supercar racing. Turns out it’s a family affair!
We visit the home of Media personality Louise Pagonis to discuss the joys of inner city living!
We get some garden tips from Master Landscaper Darrell Smith from Landsmiths.
Can I afford a house – focus on what you’re buying
Anyone applying for a mortgage in New Zealand today is being hit with the impact of the new CCCFA legislation; a thorough investigation of how they have spent every last cent in the past three months.
This legislation is already flagged for review, as the net result seems to be that the banks are denying home loans to people who would previously have been approved. Many people are putting off applying at all.
Which is the pits if you’re finally at the point where you can look at buying. But there is an opportunity here which could grow your wealth considerably over the life of your (eventual) mortgage.
If the legislation is amended, the banks may go back to assuming that everyone can easily change their spending habits once they have a mortgage. It’s in your own best interests to be 100% sure that you can. Because the end goal is not getting a mortgage, it’s living in a house that you own free and clear.
An increasing number of mortgage-holders are getting to retirement age with years of mortgage repayments still ahead of them. Their options are to sell the house, or keep working.
If neither of those options appeal to you, you will need to get a grip on what you’re spending. (Bonus: you could get a mortgage approved today, when fewer people can, meaning less competition when looking at houses to buy.)
Getting a grip on your spending is not as easy as most people make it sound. “Spend less” misses a vital point.
No one wants to spend money. What they want is the things that they’re buying. To cut spending, you have to change what you’re buying.
Well, duh!
But it’s a crucial distinction which is ignored in most “be good with money” advice.
How to track your spending
The fail-safe way to change your spending pattern is: track what you buy. Not with an app that will do it for you – that won’t connect you to what you’re doing in the same way, it’ll just provide a report on spending you can barely remember doing. Use a way that works for you – take a photo of your purchases, write them down, enter the details in a spreadsheet. Have a look at your bank and credit card transactions online every couple of days. Any unexpected charges in there?
Review your purchases
Now review each type of purchase – how is what you’re buying making you happier? Weirdly, some spending doesn’t really make us happier, it’s just a habit. Excellent. That type of spending is easy to cut back on.
If the spending does make you happy (or cutting it completely would make you unhappy – like utilities) ask yourself – could I achieve the same result for less or no money?
Could you find another way to socialise with friends? Get a better deal on electricity? Have clothes you love that cost less? Share the cost of a sport or hobby with someone else? Buy the same snacks in bulk from the supermarket instead of one at a time from the dairy?
Just ‘spending less’ will often lead to unhappiness and feelings of deprivation. It’s not sustainable. But buying what makes us happy, while spending less or no money – that’s empowering, sustainable, and more likely to get you that mortgage approval.
How To Deal With Pain, Naturally: Qoleum Product Review with Monique Bradley
Struggling with pain or discomfort? Joint pain? Muscle fatigue? Cramps or chaffing?
Hi there! Monique Bradley here: editor of Guide To Better Living, product demonstrator, presenter and self confessed shopping addict!
Late last year I started struggling with a lot of lower back pain, hip pain and shooting pain down my legs. After speaking with healthcare professionals and a little ‘Dr Googling’ it became clear that I was struggling with Sciatica. If you’ve ever struggled with constant pain in your joints or muscles, you’ll know just how debilitating it can be and while I’m not averse to using gentle painkillers when required, I was finding that nothing was working. That’s when the team at ‘It’s Organic Darling’ reached out to me with a solution: A natural and organic range of products called Qoleum.
The brand ‘Qoleum’ was created by a sports physio to elite athletes who saw a need for products that deliver targeted wellbeing solutions without nasty chemicals. When people are competing at an international level the anti-doping laws are so strict that some ingredients in other products can be flagged as ‘performance enhancing’ during testing, hence the need for a product range designed to support recovery or provide pain relief without the stress.
What is Qoleum?
‘Qoleum’ is the brand name of a range of organic, natural New Zealand indigenous plant-based muscle relief creams, cooling gels and anti-friction creams. On first trial, it reminded me of the products my mum used to use on my legs when I struggled with growing pains as a child.
Oleum means ‘oil’ in Latin and ‘Q’ stands for (in my opinion) QUICK as when I started to trial the products I could feel a difference pretty darn quickly! It seemed different from other antiflam products that I had tried previously which often irritated my skin. My experience was more like a sigh of relief for my muscles!
Why is Qoleum different?
Qoleum sports creams contain natural plant ingredients only found in New Zealand and while it was developed to support athletes, we are all prone to injuries, aches and pains.
Qoleum muscle rubs and anti-chafing creams are a great choice for hard-core athletes, sporty kids, or those with injuries, or daily aches and pains and safe enough to use on the kids growing pains, arthritic joints, back pain triggered by picking up toddlers multiple times a day or if you’re dealing with acute pain like I had. Yes: you read that correctly. Qoleum and some stretching made a difference for me and enabled me to get to the Chiropractor, which would have been previously impossible because of my pain levels.
Qoleum products
Each product is made of organic and NZ natural ingredients. There’s 3 key products in the range:
Qoleum Q Friction: a skin barrier or protective salve to protect your skin against chaffing, irritation or for the wee ones, nappy rash
Qoleum Organic Muscle Gel: a cooling, soothing organic muscle rub gel that relieves muscular aches and pains associated with sports, arthritis or age
Qoleum Organic Muscle Rub: a versatile organic cream for muscle pain relief. You can use it on stiff muscles before you run, jump, press or play and then use it afterwards to aid recovery of hard-working muscles, or support muscle tension and pain relief.
Watch the video below to see the products in action!
Thanks to the team at It’s Organic Darling for sending the products through and if you want to try them for yourself, head over to our online store and use coupon code GUIDE10 to receive an exclusive 10% discount of your order.
Love the idea of securing your own place to call HOME? You’re not alone! It seems that most of us have the same dream: a family home that’s yours, giving you the perfect place to create memories for years to come.
The real challenge right now, aside from the impact that Covid has made with job losses and our economy, seems to be the change in legislation designed to protect people looking for their dream home.
But what does it all mean and WHY does it seem to be harder than ever to get lending when the interest rates have been at their lowest levels in decades?
If you’re struggling to get a mortgage right now or even understand the changing conditions, take a look at this video.
Rachael Thompson – also known as ‘The Smarter Mortgage Lady’ demystifies what’s happing with lending right now and discusses the advice she wished she had received years ago!
If you’ve ever entertained the idea of living right next to the ocean, but not too far from the city, Orewa on Auckland’s Hibiscus Coast is one to look out for!
Why do people choose to live in Orewa?
Once a thoroughfare for travellers or the way to Waiwera or further north, Orewa is now a highly sought after residential destination due to its proximity to Auckland City, while still providing the perfect spot for you to eat, shop and PLAY.
Orewa is often host to vibrant community events including live music shows or classic car events, but for many it’s now become HOME, providing the perfect mix of prime seaside living and relaxation with thriving and supportive community hub.
In this interview with Chair of the Hibiscus & Bays Local Board – a proud Orewa resident – Gary Brown, Gary shares what attracted his family to settle in the area, why people come to Orewa and his vision for the area through Covid and beyond!
Do you struggle with dry or flakey skin? Wondering about the best ways exfoliate your body without spending thousands of dollars in exfoliating creams? Then perhaps it’s time to consider dry brushing.
Rëngora dry brush and bath brushes
**Products available via their Amazon store.
Dry brushing is exactly as it sounds: you’re brushing the surface of your skin, with a DRY BRUSH – and it’s really important to do it the right way to ensure you don’t damage or scratch the delicate surface of the skin. This is not about scratching the skins surface, but rather disrupting the scaly, dry or dead skin cells that sit on the surface of the skin leaving the skin looking dull, dry or in some instances ‘grey looking’.
Our skin naturally turns over new skin cells every 27 days, meaning we essentially ‘shed cells’ every month. Having a bath or shower facilitates part of that process, as does the towel you use after bathing, the clothes you wear, and environmental factors.
Interesting fact: a lot of our skin becomes the dust you see around your home, so if you’re noticing your house is extra dusty, it may not be because there’s a lot of dust blowing in through the windows! It’s your body crying out for exfoliation!!
While dry brushing may not sound overly attractive and comfortable, for many cultures around the world, it’s a major part of their daily grooming process: like a daily body massage – but with a dry, stiff-bristled brush designed to help get rid of flaky skin, increase circulation, detoxify, help digestion – and may even improve the appearance of cellulite.
Does dry brushing work?
Dermatologists and skin experts are divided on this point. If you have dry or sensitive skin, or skin conditions such as eczema or dermatitis, it may worth talking to your beauty therapist or GP before trying it.
We feel dry bushing should be approached on a case by case basis dependent on your skin’s sensitivity and comfort levels. If you love the idea of a brisk, vibrant feeling massage experience for your skin, dry brushing can most definitely be beneficial! However technique is critical to ensure you be the best results for your skin.
Dry brush from https://rengora.com/
Benefits of dry brushing
Dry brushing may help with detoxifying the skin: The physical action of dry brushing can be great for exfoliating rough, dry skin and potentially unclogging your pores during the process. The movement and action as well as the physical stimulation of the skins surface, the fascia, muscles and blood flow underneath the skin, may also helps detoxify your skin, increasing blood circulation and promoting lymph flow/drainage. FYI Drinking water is super important to support this process as the physical act of unclogging pores means it’s easier for the body to sweat and eliminate toxins in your system. Water helps. A LOT.
Dry brushing may support the nervous system: Dry brushing makes you feel good in a number of ways, from reminding yourself that you’re taking time to look after yourself, to stimulating your skins surface, as well as activating the good feeling hormones triggered when you have any type of massage. It can leave you feeling invigorated, while stimulating your nervous system all at the same time!
Dry brushing leaves your skin looking more radiant: Removing dead skin cells is not only an instant way to make your skin feel smoother and softer, but through stimulating the skins surface with this vibrant and energising style of massage, it can leave your skin looking brighter as well – not to mention that removing the dry dead skin cells from the skins surface also reveals fresher skin cells.
A good alternative to scrubbing in the shower: If you’re a little heat sensitive, hot water may inflame your skin and even strips away oils, fats, and proteins that keep your skin healthy, causing redness and irritation. This can also be exacerbated if you’re using bath or body gels or soaps that contain skin irritating sulphates, artificial fragrances or detergents. Brushing your skin while it’s dry allows you to exfoliate and increase your blood circulation without being impacted by the heat or chemicals.
What type of brush should I use to dry brush my skin?
To fully experience the benefits of dry brushing it’s important to choose the right brush to suit your skin and your needs. For this you’ll need to use a natural stiff-bristled brush, preferably one with a long handle so you can reach your back and behind your shoulders. Some bristles are stiffer than others, and it depends on your skin’s sensitivity and preference. You can also use a short handled brush or a brush with a handgrip, however if you’re wanting to get into those out of reach places you may require a little assistance.
Here’s some great examples of good quality brushes at affordable prices from the team at Rëngora who are leaders in bath and relaxation products. Our team have personally tested these products, made of cherry wood or bamboo, with natural boar bristlesand a product demo will be released soon!
How do you dry brush your skin?
If you’re new to dry brushing here’s how to get started:
Use a natural bristled brush
Start from the feet or ankles and work your way upward in long, fluid strokes on limbs
Move the brush in a circular motion on your torso and back
Use light pressure on your abdomen, breasts and neck
Only go over each area a couple of times to avoid irritation
Dry brush once a day before your shower
Can I dry brush with sensitive skin or other skin conditions?
Yes you can! It’s possible to use a dry brush even if you have sensitive skin, however it’s important to start gently. For dry brushing to be fully effective, the bristles should be pretty firm. Natural bristles – like the boar bristles used in the Rëngora products are a great choice. If you notice any redness, swelling or inflammation however, lighten up your pressure or stop for a break.
It’s recommended that you also avoid brushing over moles, warts, or raised bumps and if you do have any concerns, discuss this with you dermatologist of GP. FYI: It’s not recommended that you use a dry brush on your face as the skin is more sensitive than on other parts of your body. If your face needs exfoliation, consider using dedicated skincare products or a microfibre cloth and water.
When is the right time to dry brush?
The best time to dry brush is just before a shower so you can wash off any dead skin cells and flaky skin. Be sure to apply a natural hydrating moisturiser after your shower to put moisture back into your skin.
So there you have it! Everything you need to know about getting started with dry bushing. Millions of people are doing it around the world – probably right now as you’re reading this article! So order your brushes now and get started with loving yourself and your skin. It’s such a simple daily ritual that can literally transform your skin and your life!
**AMAZON AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE Guide To Better Living is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliates sites.
Also known as multi-level marketing companies, these ‘opportunities’ have been selling the dream of getting rich while working part time since the 1940s. Since then, the only people who’ve reliably become rich in the MLM industry have been the shareholders in the companies. Not only are you not likely to increase your income, research indicates that between 73 and 99% of MLM participants actually lose money.
If you still want to give it a go, remember, the numbers tell the story. The figures potential income figures MLMs use in their presentations do not have any expenses deducted. Keep careful track of all your business-related costs, including your personal purchases of the product (unlikely that you would spend so much on those products if you weren’t a distributor).
Win-win for you, right? You get paid more for what you’re already doing.
The downside is, I can almost 100% guarantee that your boss is not wondering what the heck they could do with that spare $10k a year that they just can’t seem to spend.
Which is not to say that they can’t pay you more. But think of it as a process you’re going to start and keep moving, not a one-off question that you’re going to spring on them tomorrow.
Depending on your exact work, and workplace, there are several different ways to go about asking for a raise. The following process has worked well for salaried clients
Research the current salary range for your job. Knowing what you could be paid elsewhere can help grow your courage and confidence.
Gather evidence of the value you have brought to the company, or the way your job has evolved, which may mean that your original job description and salary are no longer appropriate. If this is the case, research the current pay range for the work you actually do.
Ask for a meeting, and specify that you want to discuss your pay and conditions
Present your research. Let the numbers speak for themselves. Do not say that you need money. It’s not a compelling argument – we could all do with more money. The point is, how much you’re worth, or how much it would cost to replace you.
Give your boss time to take in the information. Even if they’re fair and reasonable, no one likes getting the news that something’s going to cost more. They may also be embarrassed and defensive it’s obvious you’re well underpaid. They will have to put new numbers in their budget, and possibly get sign-off from someone else. Schedule a time to have another meeting where they can make their offer of an increase to you.
If the answer at this meeting is no; or the offer is pitiful; or they keep postponing the follow up meeting, then you have your answer. Begin searching for a new job.
Switching jobs every 3-4 years is one of the most reliable ways to increase your earnings over your lifetime. When companies have a role to fill, they generally have to pay enough to attract the calibre of applicant that they want.
Just keep track of job-hunting costs, and when considering a new role, don’t forget details like the cost of parking at the new place, whether you would need a new work wardrobe, or have to pay for more childcare.
Be well-informed about typical pay and conditions, and use the initial offer to see if there’s something more you could get – one day a week working from home, for example, can mean a 20% reduction in your transportation costs.
Done well, this can be a real boost to your finances. Just be sure you’re not going to end up worse off.
Many people spend more when they work longer hours – they have no energy left for home cooking, they let their own admin slip and miss deadlines for bill payments, or they end up saying, “Damn it, I deserve it!” and spending money on a treat rather than for its originally intended purpose.
To do a second job well, keep track of the money, but also keep an eye on your time and energy. If these start running low, you’ll probably compensate by spending more, and you’ll almost certainly damage your health and relationships.
Sell stuff you no longer use
Somewhat of a no-brainer, but can be quite time-consuming with photos and descriptions and answering questions. Research what the things you own typically sell for (or if they sell at all). Once you get into a rhythm with this it can become addictive.
Bonus – you get an eye for a bargain for the stuff you need to buy.
If you (or anyone you love) is at the point in life when buying a house seems like a good idea, then you’re probably aware that getting a mortgage today is not as easy as it once was.
Back in the olden days (up to mid-2021ish) the banks appeared to accept your word for how much you spent.
They gave out a form that listed every expense in the known universe, and you put a number next to each one.
Some of the numbers were easy as – grocery spending, insurance, average power bill.
Some of them were hard to know – what’s your average monthly spend on clothes? Healthcare? Car repairs?
Unless the answer is “Nothing – I don’t have a car”, or you track all your spending, no-one knows the true answers to those questions.
So you’d put forward your best guess, hand-on-heart not trying to lie, and the form would show that you ended each month with a huge pile of cash. Which, although you were saving for the deposit, um, no, that can’t be right. Not that much.
The bank would run its numbers based on a higher interest rate than the one they would be charging you to start with, allow a terrifyingly tiny amount for living expenses (which it kind of looked like you could manage, based on your form’s numbers) and check that there was enough left over to pay rates and insurance. If there was, good news! Assuming your deposit was in order, you could borrow an insane amount of money!
Now the banks pay no mind to what you say you spend, but are all over what you have actually been spending. They run your bank statements through software which tells them where all your money has gone for the past three months. If the software shows spending patterns that they don’t like, the answer is no. They no longer assume that everyone can make the terrifyingly tiny amount for living expenses work.
And they’re right: not everyone can. While some can slam on the spending brakes and go full-frugal, others find themselves constantly extending the revolving-credit mortgage to pay off consumer debt, which can mean they reach retirement age and still have years of mortgage payments ahead of them.
No-one wants that.
So the new question for would-be home buyers is not, “Can I afford a house?” It’s “Can I change my spending?”
Living with skin sensitivities can be really hard and even harder when you’re a baby or a child! There’s nothing worse than that constant itching, rashes or even worse, eczema and dermatitis. Thankfully that’s why the amazing range ‘Sigrid’s’ was created.
Little Sigrid (the name sake behind the brand) was sensitive to chemicals. She couldn’t use products other kids could, so her father – a talented bio chemist – would make her products inspired by nature and her great grandmother’s Sigrid’s recipes (a mother of 11).
They were so full of goodness that as an adult, she decided to share with the world, and named them Sigrid’s, after all the woman in her family who came before her.
In this episode of Guide To Better Shopping, presenter Monique Bradley shares her own story of living with skin sensitivities and how Sigrid’s products have helped her in her own journey.
PLUS, check out the all natural hair detangler! If you’re struggling to brush through your own hair without breakages or there’s too many tears at hair brushing time, you need this product IMMEDIATELY.
We love the products and independently give them a 5 STAR rating!
Sigrid’s Specialty Cleaning & Kid’s Care products are 100% Biodegradable & are the first of their kind to be CERTIFIED Natural.
Check them out online and use GUIDE10 as a coupon code in the checkout cart to grab yourself a 10% discount.
How To Love Life And Flex And Thrive Through The Hard Times with transformational Life Coach, Jo Roberston.
During adverse times we can feel overwhelmed by change and, it’s no wonder if we feel uncertain, stressed and restless. By consciously promoting and fostering resilience for ourselves and others, we can more positively thrive, grow and prosper, even during difficult and challenging periods in our life.
Did you know that by eating dinner together as a family you also give your child a healthy side serving of resilience, and that spending time with grandparents will also promote the resilience of your children? I’m a strong advocate for fostering resilience as it helps us through times of adversity and change. The good news is that we all have the capacity for resilience, and we can build and foster it in ourselves and others.
Resilience is the ability to bounce back during times of adversity and being able to move forward and learn from experiences in a positive way.
Like this little toy clown skittle with a round bottom, whenever it gets knocked over; it bounces back again. And just like that, we too can bounce back from a challenging time, and eventually self-right. We all hold the ability for self-righting, however, sometimes we can be hit so far over that it’s difficult to bounce back again right way, it may take some more time.
When faced with this type of knock-back, we must be prepared to ask for help, be compassionate, and be patient with ourselves, as it takes time. Asking and seeking for help is a resilient action, as is showing yourself compassion, especially when times get tough. Scientists who study stress and resilience say it’s important to think of resilience as an emotional muscle that can be strengthened at any time, and it’s useful to build your resilience before a big or small crisis hit.
Inevitably, we will all experience some type of change or challenge, but we can foster our own resilience and improve how we cope by implementing these fun and simple practices into our everyday life. Make connections.
Surround yourself with positive and encouraging people.
Laughter and humour provide feelings of optimism and fun which is great for our emotional wellbeing. Spending time with the people and the things you love helps you to feel brighter and more connected. There is tremendous healing and personal growing power in talking to others and busying yourself with the things that excite you.
Spend time on a hobby, a passion, or even try something new
Delve into your childhood memories for activities you used to enjoy. Think through activities that you’ve always wanted to try. but also come up with some possibilities that you would enjoy. Having an activity or hobby you enjoy doing will lift your mood and help you re-energise and re-charge.
Set aside time and use that opportunity to focus on the positive things which bring joy. Focus your awareness on the things and people who you hold dear to your heart, what you treasure, and all of the things you can be proud of that you have achieved so far. Writing a joy list will help to remind you and it will inspire you, bringing you joy every day.
Learn vital relaxation skills so you can listen and understand how to connect with your inner self. What is something that you do you to help you unwind and relax? Be open to trying new ways of relaxation. Find what works best for you and practice them in your everyday life.
Photo by George Dolgikh @ Giftpundits.com on Pexels.com
Practice gratitude
Find what brings you joy, bring it into your everyday, and focus on it during the tough times. Find a greater appreciation for life, and make a habit of practicing gratitude, looking for all the things in your life that you can grateful for, no matter how trivial, and consciously give thanks.
Times of intense change are challenging, but also present us with an opportunity for renewal, and to foster our resilience and a way to use all our experiences in a positive way toward creating our future.
Lots of support is available right here and if you’d like one to one support, I’d love a whole hearted conversation with you.
This complimentary offer is for you, so join me for a chat. http://jorobertson.co.nz/contact-me/
Keeping The Outside Of Your Home Clean, Safely With Spray And Go Moss And Mould Cleaner
There is a time of year that always seems to bring out the moss, mould, algae and lichen around your home, concrete driveways become green and slippery, steps are mossy and dangerous and even rooves, gutters, the sides of your house are cover in lichen and more and you really need to get onto sorting the unsightly problem.
Enter Spray & Go from Lifestyle focus. Spray & Go Turbo is a handheld unit that will attach to the end of your common garden hose and allows you to apply the moss, lichen and mould cleaner in a simple fashion. Watch the video to see how easy it is to apply.
Spray and Go Turbo
Spray & Go Turbo is your one stop, environmentally friendly solution for moss, mould, mildew, and algae. It is bleach free, biodegradable and safe and easy to use. It cleans concrete, tiles, bricks, timber, decks, plastic, canvas and more.
Features :
No Water Blasting
Special concentrated formula.
No Scrubbing
Bleach Free
Biodegradable Formula
Visible Results within 24 hours
Fast Acting Formula
Works with the garden hose
New Spray Attachment for easy application
Protection for 12 months+
Safe around children & pets
The new easy to use Spray and Go TURBO takes the hassle out of outdoor chores. Simply attach your garden hose and start spraying your desired area. Wait for the Spray and Go TURBO formula and the weather to do the rest for you! The special hose attachment automatically mixes in the correct water to solution ratio so you don’t have to worry about sprayer bottles, mess or over dilution.
Spray & Go Commercial And Concentrate 5 L packs
Of course, if you need to treat a larger area or you want to use a backpack, there are 5 L products available including the commercial strength as well as the 5 L concentrate, suitable for all the big jobs.
Use Our Coupon And Save
Shop online at Lifestyle Focus and use our special coupon GUIDE10 in the checkout for a further 10% discount.
Please note: prices and availability may vary. Offers only available to December 2021
Recliner chairs – the most comfortable piece of furniture!
Ready to spoil yourself or someone you love? Nothing beats a recliner when it comes to comfort, style and relaxation, and at beds n lounge direct there’s a perfect recliner for every body!
Nothing provides more comfort, particularly after a long day, than a reclining chair providing the ultimate relaxation experience at the push of a button or the pull of a lever but which chair is most suited for you and you lifestyle?
Choosing the right recliner: Space, size, style and comfort level
It’s really important when you’re looking at purchasing your recliner that you consider the following questions:
What size space do I have in my home to accomodate a recliner when it’s both upright AND fully extended?
What style and colour suits the design and decor of my home?
What level of comfort am I looking for?
WHO is likely to be sitting in this chair the most? What is their frame or body shape and what will their requirements likely be? A wider seat? Broader shoulder space? Or is a snuggly fit required?
The most comfortable recliners should also provide good lumbar and neck support and thankfully the Beds N Lounge Direct website has a great selection of chairs and helpful descriptions, providing all the information you need to enable you to make the best buying decision.
The London Manual Recliner Chair is perfect for every home!
Smaller and compact with all the features of more expensive designs, for someone with little space.
Great for apartments or retirement or holiday homes at an EXCEPTIONAL price, without compromising on quality and comfort.
This chair is also great for the ‘Man Cave’ so if you’re looking for a gift for Father’s Day, birthdays or Christmas, this is a great option!
The Devon Velvet super recliner: wide arms and soft touch!
For TV fans who love to relax out, the Devon Velvet Super Recliner is a must have.
With a high elasticity sitting base and soft velvety fabric this chair is beautifully overfilled providing a supportive back with a durable steel backrest and frame and padded armrests for ultimate comfort.
The great thing about this chair is the stylish neutral colour which suits any decor and it’s ‘easy to clean’ finish, making it a great choice for any home!
The Jersey Lifter Chair: comfortable and functional!
The Jersey Lifter Chair makes sitting to standing EASY.
This lifter chair is operated from a remote control which allows the user to go from seated to full recline and up to a standing position so perfect for anyone who has mobility challenges.
The upholstery is a hard wearing water resistant fabric which cleans easily and looks super stylish as well!!
American Leggett & Platt steel recliner mechanisms – made for Kiwi’s
Top quality designer fabrics
Pocket spring, webbing & zig zag suspension for superior support
Suffolk Manual Recliner Space Grey
This recliner upholstered with hard-wearing polyester fabric in a cool fashion colour – space grey. Compact design to take up less room with surprising size seating.
Solid laminated timber frame, American leggett and platt mechanism, pocket spring and zig-zag spring suspension system.
This recliner chair has a high elasticity sitting base and soft fabric material with overfilled supportive back and padded armrests for ultimate comfort. Stylish colour match any home decor and simply wipe down by a clean cloth, which is easy to care for.
WIDE ARMRESTS
Wider curved armrests add extra comfort
MANUAL SWITCH
Easy to use manual switch for fun
STURDY & STABLE SUPPORT
Durable steel backrest and frame provide stable stability when tilted
Service Cover Material
High-grade velvet fabric
Measurement: 98cm x 92cm x 99cm
Warranty
5 Years on the Frame 2 Years on Mechanism 1 Year on fabric
With easy payment options and a huge range of models, prices and designs, there really is something for everyone!
So head over to the Beds n Lounge Direct website and learn more about their amazing wholesale prices and quality furniture delivered direct to your door – ensuring you never pay retail again!
Join us live with Monique Bradley and Darrell Smith from Landsmiths – leading Auckland Landscapers – as they showcase and discuss the various models of Pestrol Mosquito traps to keep you pest free this summer and every summer.
Products In This Episode
Monique and Darrell chatted about the following products:
The world is changing: fast. With the impact and awareness of global warming and what we’re all collectively doing to the planet, it seems many of us are becoming consciously aware of the way they’re living.
Is it sustainable, both financially and environmentally?
What sort of effects or impacts are we making, both negative and positive?
And what effects are our choices making on the lives, health and wellbeing of ourselves and our children?
As a professional product tester and TV presenter for Guide To Better Shopping, I get to try and test products on a daily basis. My job is to find out how they work, learn more about their value promise and how they can potentially make people’s lives better.
More recently I was tasked with testing the certified natural home cleaning products from Living Green and learning more about the impacts of chemicals used in cleaning products not just on the environment, but even more concerning, the impacts on our health.
“Regular laundry detergents are bad for the environment — most of us know this by now. Detergents don’t completely biodegrade and they contaminate our water supplies, rivers and oceans with toxic heavy metals like cadmium and arsenic. Studies have shown that phosphates, a common ingredient in detergents, builds up in waterways and lead to eutrophication — big algal blooms that can starve fish and other plant life of oxygen.”
I also learnt on the site that as we use harsh chemical based detergents to wash clothes, they often damage the integrity of the fibres, releasing tonnes of micro-plastics into our waterways. Ever noticed your clothes fading or falling to pieces? Perhaps it was the micro-plastics holding the colour and the fabric in place.
“Fragrances, preservatives, dyes, and other chemicals in laundry detergent can cause rashes in both children and adults.
Laundry detergents can trigger a condition called contact dermatitis, which presents as a red, itchy rash that may be widespread or confined to specific areas like the armpits and groin.
Allergies or sensitivities to laundry detergent can develop the first time you’re exposed or after repeated exposures. Most people can prevent laundry detergent rashes by using fragrance- and dye-free detergents.“
In my own health and wellness journey, I’ve seen and experienced this myself. Like many children I struggled with eczema and dermatitis on my face, my hands, the inside of my elbows and behind my knees. My mother, a cooking and sewing teacher, also struggled with contact dermatitis for a number of years. Co-incidence? Genetics? Or could it come down to the chemicals in our home?
Shockingly in my research, I also unearthed this data:
“Compared to other developed countries, New Zealand has one of the highest rates of serious skin infections, particularly among children. Over the past decade, the number of children admitted to hospital for treatment of serious skin infections has doubled.” – BPAC BZ
I read numerous articles on this topic, so decided I needed to share this in layman’s terms. The reality is, when you start going down the ‘natural and organic’ rabbit hole, it’s shocking what you uncover, especially when you reflect on the way you’ve been living and the potential damage you’ve been doing to your own body.
Detergents are often made of harsh or toxic chemicals and may also include artificial fragrances which can also contribute to skin irritation. Detergents are often cheaper than natural and organic products as they can be mass produced at a lower price. Detergents also commonly use ingredients know as SLS (Sodium Laurel Sulphates) or SLE’s, SLC’s….the list goes on. These chemicals are designed to get that soapy, bubbly result with your cleaning products, leaving your clothes, your dishes, your bench tops, your dishes, cutlery and glassware squeaky clean.
For most people they also get the same results with their shampoo or their body washes…….HOWEVER……..
Squeaky clean skin means you’ve also removed the all important oils from your skin that support your skins health. Your skin being your largest and most porous organ needs all the help and support it can get!
It’s important to also note at this time in the article that 64% of what you place on your skin is absorbed into your body and usually ends up being processed by the liver.
If you start to look critically around your home, where are you likely to come into contact with detergents? Think of that squeaky clean glass you’re drinking from, or that squeaky clean toilet sit that you sit on. What about the clothing you spend most of your day in which directly touches your skin OR the sheets and pillow cases you sleep on? If you’ve ever noticed that sheets or clothing end up feeling ‘waxy’ over time, that can also be a result of both a build up of your skin oils and dead skin cells as well as the harsh chemicals trapped in the fibres! Are you starting to understand just how much our skin and our liver fights for us every day?
Your liver is designed to process your food and what you drink. In my opinion, (and as I age, I’m getting tougher on this) our livers and our bodies are not designed to process numbers and I’m convinced that this is one of the factors contributing to the increase in health issues.
Time to give your liver, your skin, your wellness and our planet a break.
What is the eco friendly natural alternative to detergents?
As I researched this topic, I learnt more about surfactants. Again, in Layman’s terms, a surfactant is designed to lower the surface tension of water, allowing it to penetrate even the finest microfibres in fabric, naturally loosening dirt and grime allowing it to rinse away.
If you’ve ever used a bath bomb in a bath and noticed how soft and luxurious it felt on your skin, then you’re experiencing the effects of a surfactant – usually Sodium Bicarbonate in a bath bomb. What you will have also noticed is that you still left the bath feeling clean, without the squeaky, skin drying effects of a detergent.
However, it is important to note that not all surfactants are the same. Some can still in fact have a detrimental impact on fish life as an example, when released out into our waterways. So how can you tell the difference?
Use products that are certified natural and detergent free
Working with products like the Living Green range, I learnt that their surfactants are plant based and derived from corn. That’s something my body understands. I also learnt that their products are not tested on animals, are vegan friendly, are hypo allergenic and some are even fragrance free. Most importantly for me, they’re manufactured here in NZ and oversee every stage of the production process to ensure their products are manufactured to the highest standards.
They’re also specifically designed for people like me and my mum who are prone to skin sensitivities or have allergies to chemicals. They also use bio-active natural ingredients such as Eucalyptus or Lemon, both known for their antimicrobial and disinfectant properties. That’s also ticks my box. I also love having the peace of mind that they’re one of the only companies in NZ who have accreditation with the United States Natural Products Association as well as holding the prestigious international Eco Warranty.
Check out this Livestream broadcast to learn more about the products.
So in conclusion, what do I want the world to know and WHY?
Squeaky clean is simply a marketing phrase coined by some of the biggest cleaning product manufacturers in the market many decades ago, and look at how our world and our health has changed.
Is now your time to consider looking more deeply into your health and wellbeing? Perhaps your skin, your liver, your wellness and our planet may just love you for it.
Top 5 ways to prepare yourself for a stress free Christmas
Already feeling the stress and pressure of the upcoming festive season? You’re not alone! Whether it’s financial stress, family stress or the effects of this stressful year, chances are everyone you talk to right now is feeling the same!
According to Medical News Today, stress often leads to impulse eating and impulse spending. It’s article on ‘reducing Christmas Stress’ suggests that readers should “Recognize how you deal with stress-related money problems. Sometimes, during tough economic moments, individuals turn to smoking, alcohol, gambling, or excessive eating to try to relieve stress. These behaviours can lead to arguments and conflicts between partners and families.”
Sounds familiar right?
It also addresses the importance of opening up conversations with your kids about realistic expectations regarding gifts and where you can, try and take some time out for yourself. A good article, worthy of reading.
Control what you can control! Get your clean on!
I’m not sure about you, but when I’m stressed I’m driven to ‘get my house in order’ – which is me in what I call ‘Tornado Mode’, physically tidying things up in my immediate area or line of sight. Same goes with your outdoor area.
Here in New Zealand, Christmas for us is normally bathed is sunshine and humidity – or in some cases, rain and humidity: sometimes both in the same day. Fingers crossed after the stressful year that 2021 has been, Kiwi’s across the country will be spending Christmas outdoors, hopefully with family and friends. The challenge is that with being stuck at home and largely unmotivated, many of us are venturing outdoors to find that the patio, concrete or outdoor furniture are covered with moss and mould creating next level anxiety.
My advice: control what you can control and get a good Moss and Mould Cleaner! Our sister site Guide To Better Shopping has been doing some test work with a great product called Spray & Go, where you literally attach the hose to the bottle, spray and go.
According to our product testers, 24 hours later the moss, mould (and anxiety!) disappeared, meaning clean concrete come BBQ time, without the fear of slipping over!
Marie Kondo taught us all that if your home or your belongings don’t bring you joy, get rid of them immediately……and I’m thinking that this also includes Moss and Mould too…..
You’re a grown up. You get to make your own choices – and repeat after me: The only person I need to impress is myself……This Christmas, what say you ditch the expectations of food perfection and opt for a simple menu.
Salads are brilliant in this weather and nothing beats gorgeous fresh salmon or a twist on the Christmas Turkey with a fun Cajun Chicken Salad. Topped with popcorn it’s satisfying and fun and guaranteed NOT to leave you needing an afternoon nap.
Many times over, my whanau have opted for a Mexican Fiesta, including Keto style Chicken Fajitas, dress ups, a Piñata and tequila shots.
And speaking of Keto: for anyone watching their carbs but still wanting a tipple, gin, vodka and tequila are all low in carbs when served with soda water and a dash of lime. Or you could opt for the wonderful low carb and Keto wine range from Keto Wines NZ. (FYI: Check them out. If you use my name MONIQUE in the checkout cart, you should get a discount for orders over $100. You’re welcome!)
One of my favourite Christmas recipes is my low carb Pavlova. Layered in whipped cream and berries, it’s decadent and delicious with none of the guilt. Give it a go.
I’m not going to lie: This year has disappeared and what have we all achieved?
I’m using this Christmas / New Year period to defrag, unplug and rest. Thanks to Covid, most of us have experienced those feelings of stress and overwhelm with many sharing with us that their ‘surge capacity has totally been depleted’. If you’re not sure what that is, give the article a read and if it resonates, consider chatting to someone about it.
Sometimes letting go and finding your ‘zen space’ can be the hardest thing to achieve during a break, often with many noticing their immunity breaks down, as they start to unwind.
If that sounds familiar, products like Sleep Ezi could be an option. Many of the members of our team have been diving into the world of aromatherapy and meditation, however i’m the last person who should be responsible for an oil burner and an open flame.
Sleep Ezi literally makes getting to sleep or even relaxing so much easier due to its gorgeous aroma and powerful natural ingredients designed to help calm the mind and support a good nights sleep. Using over 14 sleep supporting natural essential oils, including lavender, clary sage, vetiver, and patchouli to help relieve stress, relax the mind and help the body prepare to sleep.
Sleep Ezi has 3 signature products for adults: A sleep mist for spraying on your pillow, a tonic and a sleep spray. For children they also have a sleep tonic and sleep mist which are also hugely relaxing.
To be honest, I feel like I’m writing this reminder for myself.
Christmas is, for most of us, a time of over-eating, over-drinking and general laziness meaning exercise can be easily overlooked.
Diets are particularly popular in January, as are New Years resolutions, but the reality is that come week 2 of the New Year, your resolutions are out the door and you’re back on the wines with ZERO cares. (FYI: I speak from experience here…..)
I had a good chat recently with a highly motivated friend of mine, fitness and nutrition champ, and former Masterchef NZ finalist Kelly Young. Kelly has a realistic approach to wellbeing, always reminding me that ‘life is about a more balanced approach to what’s achievable.’ And yes, that may include an occasional glass of wine.
I love this philosophy.
Kelly is also a busy mum, high achiever and co-owner of 9-Round Albany with partner Dave. Scrolling through her Facebook page, I also stole this post as I felt it was a great reminder for everyone right now.
“When you’re feeling overwhelmed, here’s the tips I share:
Stop and belly breathe
Simplify your “to do list” – if you truly feel overwhelmed then first start off completing the more achievable tasks. This will create confidence and momentum to move onto the more challenging tasks
Be realistic (this can sometimes be hard when you’re in the thick of the chaos) with your thoughts. Ask, is this actually happening? Do I need to be thinking about this? Am I or those I love in physical danger? Bring yourself back into the present and focus on what needs to get done.
Exercise is one of my best forms of therapy.”
OK. GOT IT. LOVE IT. Thanks Kel.
It’s important to remember that while resolutions may not always stick, positive habits do, and exercise is not only a great way to reduce stress, as it burns off hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, it also helps produce mood-enhancing endorphins – which is the same feeling we get when we swipe that eftpos card or click the ‘buy now’ button on a cheeky gift for ourselves. FYI: If you get the chance to meet Kelly in real life, you’ll see a great example of this. Even in the midst of challenging times, she always has a smile on her face and projects more energy than a lighthouse. I put it down to the exercise…..and the great food of course.
So: this Christmas / New Year, why not try going for a walk after dinner, as the fresh air and exercise will lift your mood and make you feel better. Plus you can do it alone and listen to your favourite Spotify Playlist, or if the kids are old enough to self supervise, sneak out with your significant other and call it a date. You may be amazed at how the problems of the world can be solved in just 20-30 mins of casual walking time.
Wishing you a stress free and wonderful festive season.
Alright, if you know a thing or two about the ketogenic diet, you’d know that it is a nutritional approach that bases your food on mostly fat, as well as protein.
The carbohydrate intake during a ketogenic diet is very little, ranging from 10 to 50 grams a day.
This reduced carb intake allows your body to tap into its alternative energy source – Fat!
The liver breaks down fat into ketones during a state known as “ketosis”.
Ketones are then used by the body as energy to fuel various functions, processes, and daily activities.
Now, though keto kicks your body into a fat-burning mode, you should know that at equated caloric deficits, keto won’t result in a greater rate of fat loss, as compared to other types of diets
The truth is however that many proponents of the ketogenic diet claim to reap amazing benefits, so let’s have a look at the possible such!
One of the biggest benefits of the ketogenic diet is that in many individuals, it can potentially turn out to be something sustainable.
Because fats and proteins are highly satiating and keto is abundant of both, individuals in a weight loss phase may experience higher levels of satiety and thus, adhere to their plan faster and better.
Though keto has been proven effective in many regards, there are many areas where it lacks.
Here are some of the disadvantages and side effects you may find during your keto phase.
Keto Flu
The keto flu, also known as carbohydrate withdrawal is a quick onset of symptoms that can be experienced during or shortly after starting to follow a ketogenic diet.
Keto flu symptoms can include headache, fatigue, muscle aches and pains, nausea.
However, the keto flu is usually extremely short-lived as your body adapts to its new metabolic state!
Keto Diarrhoea And Constipation
Because keto drastically changes your macro nutrition, you will likely experience some sort of gastrointestinal discomfort.
The most common symptoms include diarrhea and constipation which may also contribute to dehydration if not treated properly!
Athletic Performance
One of the biggest disadvantages of the ketogenic diet is that it deprives you of the best energy source for high-intensity activity – Carbohydrates!
Because keto implies using fat as the main fuel source and fat has 9 calories per gram, it is way less effective than the quick-releasing glucose (carbs) that have just 4 calories per gram.
Research has proven time and again that carbohydrates remain the king of high-intensity performance, so if you are after some goals in the gym, this might not be the right diet for you!
The ketogenic diet is not the right choice for everyone.
So, if you are on it and feel like one of our disadvantages hit your spot, consider other options, such as a balanced, or a flexible diet!
However, if you are on the ketogenic diet and feel like it is sustainable and working for you or simply know that one of its benefits can help with your life…
Go ahead! If not now, when? And remember to always talk to your doctor before starting any new nutritional plan.
If your current fish aren’t biting, consider sharing your bait in front of new fish……There are several ways to grow your business by introducing your products and services to a new pool of customers, opening you up to a new market. Consider collaborating with mutually beneficial business partners or even friends with businesses to do cross promotions, special offers or give aways. Working with other companies in your industry will help you to reach new customers and establish your references on a national or international level, which will grow your business. [Sources: 9]
Affiliate marketing is another great way to organically expand your business via influencers or affiliate partnerships. They key is to set up a good affiliate partner offer, work with your website developer to set up the website infrastructure, develop shareable resources or graphics that affiliates can share to drive traffic and sales on your site, then do weekly checks on traffic volume and conversions, while following up with payouts for your affiliate partners. What’s really great about affiliate marketing is that anyone with friends on Facebook (as an example) can be sharing their affiliate links from your site as soon as they are set up as a partner, helping both grow your brand and your business.
Impulse marketing to attract as many customers as possible is another type of targeted marketing that can be effective for small businesses. Again, direct relationships with influencers can also help boost your company’s sales, so it’s definitely worth considering. [Sources: 2]
Franchising your business, if the model is suitable, can be a great way to go through onboarding licensees or franchise partners who can further represent your name or brand in different geographical locations.
If this is part of your plan moving forward, it’s worthwhile working with a franchise specialist who can set up the business frameworks, infrastructure, offer and onboarding process to ensure you and your brand are fully protected.
Once you have these key elements in place, you can then look into the valuation and what that franchise opportunity will look like for a potential partner. For more information about how to do this, check out this information supplied by the NZ government as part of it’s free online resources designed to support small businesses. [Sources: 0, 9]
Customer acquisition is very important for any business so having a robust ad campaign or organic social media audience growth campaign is a great place to start, however if you’ve ever hear of the 80:20 rule, you’ll know how important it is to focus on the customers you already have. Not only is it easier to get repeat custom or upsells from happy existing customers, the customer journey when getting a sale across the line is often faster and easier too.
Customer perception of your business however can make or destroy a business so look after your previous and existing client database with regular touchpoints or helpful tips and updates through your newsletter or social media community. If you exceed your customers’ expectations, they are also more likely to tell their friends, relatives and followers about your business. Win. [Sources: 7, 13]
According to Small Business Trends, a great way to grow your business is to focus on superior customer service. If you offer your customers a better service, they will be more inclined to come back to you the next time even if your competition has a better or more compelling offer. [Sources: 8, 13]
No matter what kind of small business you run, learning your numbers can give you amazing insight into where you spend your money, waste money and your greatest potential for revenue generation. (FYI: It’s worth learning this from your accountant or business advisor if numbers are not your strength.)
It’s obviously important to increase your turnover and increase your revenue, while understanding your profits and tax implications, and focussing on your team, culture and customers. Sounds overwhelming, but welcome to the world of being a business owner! The devil is in the detail, so take some time daily to focus ON the business as well as working within it.
If you are looking for ways to grow, pay attention to the costs associated with running your business and providing your product or service to customers. Reducing these costs can be an effective way to give your business the cash flow it needs to grow and stabilize. One of the easiest ways to grow a business is to pursue a market penetration strategy where the price of your products or services is low enough to entice customers to try it out. [Sources: 0, 9]
On the flipside, as an entrepreneur, you must show your customers enthusiasm for your services and products, point out why your offer is the best and what the ROI (return on investment) is for them with regards to value or how your product, brand or service can make them feel. Providing tangible data, numbers based results or testimonials can all help too. [Sources: 5, 6]
If your goal is to start a small business that will be huge one day, you need a marketing strategy to help you increase brand awareness, engage your audience and attract new customers. [Sources: 0]
Business success and growth do not come overnight; it requires long-term concentration and you must remain consistent in growing your brand equity, sharing your story and showcasing the value proposition of your business and what your enterprises promise is to your customers. By entering the business for the right reasons and developing a strong vision around your WHY, establishing a strong business development plan, sticking to it, recruiting the right people and staying on track, you are on track to build a successful business empire before you know it, while remaining true to your vision, values and purpose.[Sources: 0, 5]
If you are just getting your business started, for some it can mean sleepless nights as you try to find out how to attract new customers and become profitable. That is why it is important to plan ahead and set long-term goals and working with a business coach could be a great way to go.
A good advisor with skills and experience across all areas of business can be just what you need to help you establish your enterprise, your infrastructure, your offer and your overarching business plan and strategies for growth. Search around and read the reviews. Watch videos from coaches and advisors online and ascertain who shares the right content that resonates with you the most. [Sources: 4, 5]
Preparing to start a business is hard work, but as soon as you open your doors, your work begins. Just because you have opened a shop – as an example – does not mean that you will start making money right away. It takes time to let people know who you are and to focus on your short-term goals. Again, a good advisor and a strong marketing plan is worth it’s weight in gold. [Sources: 8]
It works for most businesses, so could a customer loyalty program potentially work for yours? It takes time to encourage customers to come back and buy what you have to offer. Customer loyalty programs can help you attract new customers, while looking after your existing customers who might otherwise leave your company. If your customers find customer service satisfactory, they will also recommend others to buy from you. [Sources: 6, 14]
If you want success, prosperity and freedom, the best way for you is to grow your own business. Building a successful business will not only potentially have a big impact on your personal and financial life, the freedom and autonomy associated with running your own business is hard to beat.
It’s important to remember that you will need to work hard, but ensure you have a plan in place that allows you some flexibility and freedom to step out for a rest day or holiday. This may mean developing automated systems that can run elements of your business or drive sales while you sleep, or developing a team who can step in and run the business in your absence. This can take time, but it is worth it for your health and wellbeing. [Sources: 3]
Best of luck with your endeavours and check out other articles on this site, linked in this one, that can provide insights into helping both you and your business grow.
After the challenges of 2020 and 2021, it would be fair to say that the ongoing lockdowns, uncertainty of our time frames, impact of job losses, home schooling, changes to the economy and the depletion of our surge capacity have left many of us struggling just to get out of bed. If this sounds familiar, please know you’re not alone. [Also: disclaimer – if you need help, contact details of who to reach out to are listed below. It’s ok to reach out…..]
The World Health Organization defines mental health as a state of well-being in which an individual recognises his or her own ability to cope with normal stresses of life and work and to contribute to his or her community.
The NHS (UK) definition of mental health gives us a good overview of what positive mental health is and describes it as a positive state of mind and body that feels safe, is able to deal with it and has a sense of connection to people, the community and the wider environment.
Self-care includes all the essential things we need to focus on – such as good food, cleanliness, and adequate sleep – but it is also about the things we do to comfort, calm, and make ourselves feel good. [Sources: 0, 7]
While some people are looking inward right now and leaning into their set of ‘self taught’ or ‘learned therapeutic coping mechanisms’, others I speak to are tending towards overwhelm, using zoom calls and talking therapies to vent and offload, or sharing tools with others that have enabled them to calm down and find their ‘zen space’. It seems we’re all in this together.
The reality is most of us are feeling some level of stress, distress, anxiety, overwhelm, fatigue or simply feel flat.
Regardless of where you sit in the ‘self reliance VS leaning on others for support’ spectrum, the reality is most of us are experiencing varying degrees of stress and anxiety, daily, even before the effects of Covid. How we deal with it however, is as unique as the person experiencing it, so following is a mix of conventional and unconventional ideas to try, to help you find your way back to ‘zen’.
“If you have trouble sleeping or waking up and think about things that are stressful to you, write them down so you can be sure that you will be able to cope with them in the morning.” [Sources: 8, 12]
Many of our team members are journal users. The act of getting what’s inside, out on a piece of paper can be both clarifying and calming. The kinaesthetic act of writing and drawing is also fantastic for children, so appease your own inner child and make time to write, doodle, draw and create.
Tip: it’s great to write down everything. Get it out. All of it, even if it’s sad, then make a conscious choice to finish with something positive or something that you’re grateful for. According to Yoni Cohen, author on Happify Daily,
“When you take the time to focus on the good things in your life you naturally become more positive. By writing down what you are thankful for, it can make you more optimistic because you are choosing to see more of the positivity in your life, giving less power to negative emotions. While these positive aspects of your life may be floating around in your subconscious, writing them down makes them more concrete and real.”
Ready to try journalling? Download your FREE 30 Day Personal Transformation Journal to help you get started.
We all know that there are many things you can do to make sure you stay physically healthy, however our mental well-being affects how we feel physically, and our physical wellbeing also affects our mental well-being. They literally work hand in hand.
Aside from the rush of endorphins we get from movement, physical activity triggers all kinds of bio-chemical responses linked to both mental and physical wellbeing, with a key positive side affect being the impact on mood. [Sources: 0, 8]
Prior to a diagnosis of depression, one of the first questions I was asked by a medical practitioner was ‘how often are you out walking?’ My response: ‘I don’t have the energy…….’ 20 years later, I have finally recognised how they work together. Hindsight is a wonderful thing.
Tip: Feeling flat? Go for a 5 minute walk. Take the dog out. Check the mail. See what’s happening outside. Walk around the block. Go a different way. Walk with a neighbour. Walk with a friend. According to the Mayo Clinic
“Regular exercise may help ease depression and anxiety by:
Releasing feel-good endorphins, natural cannabis-like brain chemicals (endogenous cannabinoids) and other natural brain chemicals that can enhance your sense of well-being
Taking your mind off worries so you can get away from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety”
Eating well can also help maintain your brain health throughout your life. A balanced and healthy diet can improve your mental and physical health and a good nutritionally dense diet can help you feel better, improve your mood and reduce anxiety and stress. Try to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of water to improve your energy levels. [Sources: 4, 6, 11]
While that may seem logical, you’d be surprised at how many people that we’ve been talking with over the last 2 years – who are struggling with stress or mental health issues – have admitted to leaning on convenience food or foods high in fat, sugars, artificial colours and flavours. In fact they crave it.
“Researchers believe that having an imbalance of serotonin in the brain contributes to the development of depression.
When you’re craving carbs, you’re usually being drawn to foods that encourage serotonin production. In a sense, reaching for sugary, carbohydrate-rich foods can be a way of self-medicating depression.”
Tip: Many of the processed foods or things you crave may deliver high calorific value but very little nutritional value. Because of this your body will try to make sense of what to do with both the food and the nutritional deficit, and it can significantly interrupt or rob your body (and mind) of key nutrients and energy it needs to function at its best. Where possible, opt for healthier snacks and meals and consider asking for help, support and accountability from others in your home.
Self-care means taking time to do things that help you to live well, feel well and improve your physical and mental health by putting yourself and your well-being first. Regular self-care sessions can help you cope with stress, reduce your risk of illness and boost your energy levels when it comes to mental health, while help you maintain your wellbeing. [Sources: 10]
Using your problem-solving skills, find ways to add more things to your day that will make you happier in your life. Activities and hobbies that prevent you from getting distracted can have a positive impact on your mental health and wellbeing and help boost self-confidence and self-esteem. [Sources: 5, 11]
From engaging in a session of yoga or practicing mindfulness to simply running a bath or hopping in a hot tub, the meditative like state from un-plugging and slowing your brainwaves through relaxation can be one of the best remedies for stress and anxiety.
“The simple act of relaxing in a hot tub results in a combination of both increased blood flow and relaxation of your breathing. These combine and increase the serotonin and dopamine levels in your brain, whilst also decreasing stress and cortisol levels. Plus with a hot tub, you get to share the experience with family or friends, creating positive memories for years to come.“
In a time where many of us are being urged to physically distance, there is growing evidence that positive mental well-being is linked to the connections that we form with others. Concern about your mental health can affect your personal wellbeing, relationships, resilience and a variety of other factors, so consciously reaching out can be a great step in the right direction. [Sources: 3, 7]
While the effects of stress, anxiety or mental health issues can often make us feel exhausted and like we want to be alone or isolated, there’s also something very soothing about connecting in with ‘your people’. In my own experience with depression, I spent many late nights driving around in a car with my bestie, NOT talking about how I felt, but observing life, recalling positive memories and having deep belly laughs. They say laughter is the best medicine, so consciously reaching out and tapping into your tribe could be the energy, support and re-focus you need to find your own way back to wellness. Try it.
Tip: According to website webmd, friends not only prevent loneliness, they also:
Increase your sense of belonging and purpose
Boost your happiness and reduce your stress
Improve your self-confidence and self-worth
Help you cope with traumas, such as divorce, serious illness, job loss, or the death of a loved one
Encourage you to change or avoid unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as excessive drinking or lack of exercise
Help put your problems in context to develop a stronger sense of meaning and direction
Increase feelings of security and help protect against stress
Ease the emotional impact of difficulties and offer new ideas about tackling them
Whether you’re hanging out with one friend or several, remember that you don’t have to give out. Just be present. If your friends are good friends, being with them is more than enough, and they’ll give you back exactly what you need to feel energised and positive.
Taking care of yourself is a valid goal in itself, but it can also help you to support the people you love. Spend time with your family and friends, meet new people and engage in activities that make a difference to how you feel. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people if you feel comfortable with a tangible way to help someone in need. [Sources: 2, 9, 11]
The awareness of identifying the people on whom you can rely when things are difficult and asking for them to be part of your care circle is a powerful tool in your mental health toolbox. Know that you have people that you trust, count and spend time with is important for our emotional health. The connection to people who care can be comforting when you need it. [Sources: 1, 6]
Sleep is good, however the quality of your sleep is crucial
Movement, hanging out with friends, journalling, meditation and a soak in the bath or the hot tub can help you fall asleep faster and potentially sleep better, relieve stress and anxiety and improve memory and cognition, which means you have a better chance of experiencing positive events during the day. However, the quality of your sleep is a crucial part of that solution. [Sources: 3, 11]
“Sufficient sleep, especially REM sleep, facilitates the brain’s processing of emotional information. During sleep, the brain works to evaluate and remember thoughts and memories, and it appears that a lack of sleep is especially harmful to the consolidation of positive emotional content. This can influence mood and emotional reactivity and is tied to mental health challenges. “
Tip: Both your daytime activities and the environment you sleep in can positively or negatively impact the quality of your sleep, so it’s worth considering the following:
Invest in a quality mattress and pillow: Your mattress is vital to making sure that you are comfortable enough to relax. It also ensures, along with your pillow, that your spine gets proper support. Tossing and turning all night? If you need help and support, chat with our partners at Beds N Lounge Direct about options to suit you and your needs.
Avoid Light Disruption: Light exposure can disrupt both your sleep and circadian rhythm. Blackout curtains are a must, if possible or consider wearing a sleep mask to cover your eyes.
Find the right temperature: The heat of your room can heavily impact your sleeping experience. The ideal temperature can vary based on the individual, but most research supports sleeping in a cooler room that is around 65 degrees. Consider adding a fan to a hot room or look for a mattress infused with cooling gel, or alternatively consider flannelette or brushed cotton sheets and a weighted blanket for comfort and warmth.
In my own depressive experience, I became critically aware of both the triggers that activated me to spiral downwards, and the triggers I could activate to help me feel brighter. While medication can be critically important as part of the journey back to wellness, self awareness needs to be factored into the equation as well.
People who receive appropriate care and support can absolutely recover from the challenges of stress and mental illness and lead fulfilling, rewarding lives. Moreover, self-help is not a cure for mental illness but understanding the causes and triggers of your symptoms, as well as the techniques that work for you, can help manage your mental health.
Read more. Take time to understand what you’re experience. Research and find ways that resonate with you on how to find your way back to wellness. There is no one size fits all when it comes to creating the right solution: there’s only one size that suits YOU.
So track your experience and track your moods to find out what may be affecting your mental well-being. This information and awareness can help you take the right steps towards making changes to your life that serve you and help prepare you for situations that could have negative effects or impacts on your wellbeing. Again, journalling can help with this, so take time daily to make a not of both your thoughts and how you feel so you can start constructing a clear vision of your world and areas for change and growth. [Sources: 0, 9, 10]
The reality of living through this bizarre time right now is that many elements of our world feel like they’re out of control, a contributing factor to stress and anxiety. So be gentle on yourself. Control what you can control, breathe and just take one step at a time.
IF YOU NEED HELP OR SUPPORT FOR YOUR STRESS, ANXIETY OR SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION, VISIT https://mentalhealth.org.nz/
