Christmas has become quite a commercial entity in recent years. You may want to bring a bit more festive spirit and tradition into your home. Rather than spending lots of money on presents and food, you could consider more the activities that you will do as a family. Older children or housemates may also want to do their own thing but, if possible, it can also be good to have some time together. During this period, phones, tablets, and other electronics that are not involved in the activity can be put aside to stop them from causing a distraction.

The time can then be solely dedicated to your family and household, allowing for that all-important bonding to occur. 

Sociable Toys

Regarding the gifts that you buy, you could opt to choose children’s toys that can be enjoyed by all the family. Whether this involves board games, activities, or days out (e.g. if you gifted them a kite), if it is something you can all enjoy, it is even better. Using items that promote communication, or at least time together, can help to bring Christmas back to being about family. In an age where instant messaging and social media are so prevalent, this is the kind of tradition that your family will benefit from and, as they grow, your children will look back on and appreciate.

Movie Time

If you want a bit of relaxation time, but want to do it together as a family, you could choose some classic Christmas movies that everyone will enjoy. It is important that you pick things that are age appropriate, and will cater to everyone’s tastes, as some movies may be too childish for older children or adults, while younger children may not appreciate more traditional or grown up films. 

You could combine this with some food, popcorn or even mugs of cocoa, to help everyone really relax and enjoy their home cinema experience.

Make Your Own Decorations

Spending time together in the run up to Christmas is also important. You can do this when shopping, cooking, or even decorating your home. Making decorations as a family can be a great way to tap into your crafty sides and spend some time together. These can be as simple or complex as you like. You can design and create them yourselves, using inexpensive materials, and then work together to hang them up all over your home and tree. You could then opt to either keep them, or remake new decorations next holiday season.

Overall, the main purpose of the Christmas period is to cherish each other’s company and to be grateful for the time you have together. If you are of a religion, you could also incorporate your belief into these activities, to bring you all even closer. Spending time together, particularly when children are young, is important to allow for some great memories to look back on in years to come. 

Teachers are well known for selflessness by putting others first. But maintaining yourself to be strong mentally and also physically in difficult times is very important. The only way one can develop that habit is by sticking to healthy habits and focusing on your wellbeing. If you are having a hard time with your study, check out essay format UK. Uncertain times require doing hard things and discipline during hard times. It helps to give a boost to people in hard times. Start by selecting a habit that can put in a good mood for the day.

Include new activities in the normal routine of your everyday life. It is a technique that one can use to keep good habits when going through a hard time. Trying new habits and making small changes to activities anchored in your daily activity like waking up, brushing your teeth, eating meals, and laundry. Such small actions can make the creating of habits that are healthy easier.

The habit is now becoming a regular is the habit of washing hands with water and soap for about twenty seconds. And also, one needs to be careful after washing the hands by not touching one’s face.

Habits.

Get good sleep; that is enough.

About ⅔ of the people who stay in America report that the sleep that they need is not enough on a regular weekly basis. And as people live in fear about the current situation of the global pandemic, this scenario makes one not have enough sleep.

Getting enough sleep may be a challenge to many people right now, so according to the experts suggest and agree that sleep for the wellbeing of the human body just like the way a human needs diet.

In actual sense, sleep helps one memorize and store information that was received during the day. It also helps the brain recharge.

To sleep usually, he has to aim to sleep for at least seven to nine hours every night.

Eat-in a very healthy way.

When someone is stressed, bad eating habits are usually induced, so it is vital to eat healthily, as a balanced diet is not a time where one can decide to choose what he wants to eat at any time. When one chooses the kind of foods that they eat in an inferior way, it usually affects the person for a very long time. Always have a stock of fresh vegetables that you think you can cook and not just cooking, but you can cook them healthily.

Get active.

A group of experts thinks that it is vital for the mind and body when you exercise. Research shows that when you exercise, your health is boosted, blood circulation is proper, and lower stress levels. The gym cannot stop someone from at least becoming more active.

Another habit that one can adopt is 

Focusing on breathing.

One of the factors that cause a lot of chronic diseases is stress. Please make sure you take deep breaths when stressed, do this by inhaling and holding their breath for some time, and then exhaling. Now once you have mastered the whole procedure, repeat it four to five times.

Conclusion.

Practicing these habits takes a lot of time, so one has to be patient.

Stress and anxiety have become a more common occurrence than you would think. More and more Americans admit that they experience some form of pressure in their day-to-day living. Not only are the causes unique to every individual, but most people agree that the social stigma against getting mental health care results in denial. Many Americans like you probably won’t own up to the fact that they need help - either from an expert psychologist or from their friends and family members to ease some of the pressure.

The Statistics are Certainly Disturbing

Results of a survey conducted by the TIME magazine show that stress and anxiety are more widespread in the year 2018 than in the previous year. Close to 40 million people or 18% of the population of the country have some kind of anxiety disorder. About 68% cited family security and health as their main triggers while 67% were worried about keeping up with their family expenses and paying bills on time. It may surprise you to know that family relationships are the cause for the stress experienced by 48% of the respondents. Perhaps, the most worrying statistic says that 86% of the people going through stress are fully aware of the effects that stress has on their health.

The First Step to Relieving Stress and Anxiety is to Identify the Triggers

Considering that most people are aware of the causes of their stress is a reassuring prospect. For instance, if knowing that making enough money to take care of your family is stressing you out, you’ll find ways to cope. You may consider getting a part-time second job. Or, you may talk to your partner about cutting back on expenses until your financial situation is more stable. But, often the stress and anxiety are triggered by factors that you’re unaware of. Identifying those factors could help you overcome the depression and have a better quality of life. Ask yourself these questions.

Are Hormone Imbalances Causing the Depression?

As you near the age of 35, your endocrine system starts producing lower amounts of hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. These hormones are responsible for your body making the transition through puberty and maintain the right balance so you remain fertile through your adult years. Women need these hormones to conceive, carry, and deliver normal babies. But, once the hormone levels start to wane, you’ll experience several symptoms. These signs include hot flashes, lower libido, fatigue, weakening bones, and a less muscle mass. One of the key symptoms is mood swings and depression. By replacing these hormones, you can improve the imbalances and restore your quality of life. Click on this link https://bhrcenter.com/hormone-replacement-therapy/ to learn about bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. This treatment involves taking supplements regularly of a medicine that is derived from plants. These supplements replace the waning hormones without causing any side effects and are safe to use.

Are You Unhappy Working at Your Current Job?

Read this feature on WebMD that talks about how people experience stress and anxiety because of the work they do. Go ahead and take a good hard look at your career. Are you dealing with a heavy workload for an inadequate salary? Are you unsure about the future prospects of the post and possible career advancement? Do your boss and colleagues have unrealistic expectations of you? Do you feel like your skills are wasted at your current position and you can perform much better? Or, maybe, you’re facing some kind of harassment or discrimination at work. Explore these questions with a trusted friend or family member. If needed, work with a career counselor to help you understand the direction in which your future is heading. Identify the steps you can take to relieve the stress and anxiety. Like, maybe, talking to your boss or the HR personnel about the challenges you’re facing at work or looking for a better-paying or more satisfying job.

Are You Going Through Some Major Life Changes?

Change is a part of life and as you move forward, dealing with the new circumstances can cause stress and anxiety. For instance, you may have recently married or moved to a new city. Or, you may have gone through a difficult divorce or mourning the death of a loved one. All of these situations can upset your regular lifestyle and present new challenges that you’re not ready to face. Read this article on Psychology Today that reveals how many people are simply not equipped to manage changing life circumstances. Several factors can cause this to happen such as fear of the expenses involved or not being able to cope with new surroundings. Or, even the fear of being alone. If you recognize any of these factors, it may be a good idea to ease into the change in small comfortable steps. And, get all the help you can from the people in your life. Signing up for counseling is also a good plan. Or, take up meditation or yoga to help you with the stress and anxiety.

Are You Going Through Health Issues?

While tension and depression can result in health issues, sometimes the reverse is also true. Your health could be causing you to feel the stress and anxiety. Are you getting adequate sleep? Do you have chronic pain? Are you feeling fatigued and have lost your appetite? Are you experiencing digestive distress? All of these signs could be indicating a deeper health issue that needs to be resolved. Consult your medical practitioner and request for a complete health workup. Find out what is causing your health issues and make sure to get the right treatment. Once you feel better, you might just find that the stress and anxiety have vanished. You may now feel more energetic and in control of your life. Depression, stress, tension, anxiety are all a part of your life. But, when you find that it is becoming chronic and harder to cope, it may be time to understand the root cause of the unease. Getting professional help to sort through your problems may also be the key. Eliminate the causes and you’ll find peace and calm returning along with a better quality of life.

Sleep is a crucial part of everyone’s daily cycle, but many people struggle to get the desired quality of rest they need. Nutrition, emotional health and our general wellbeing can all have an impact on sleep, but there are numerous things you can do to create the optimum bedtime conditions. Read on for our top 7 tips to improve your sleeping pattern. Stick to a schedule Go to bed at the same time each night and set your alarm for a set time each morning. Many people enjoy a lie in at the weekend, but this can make it harder to get back into a routine during the week. Sticking to a schedule will help you sleep better and give more time to enjoy your weekend activities. Wind down before bedtime Reading a book, listening to music or playing a few games at iLottery gives you the chance to relax after a busy day. Take a warm bath before you go to bed also makes it easier to fall asleep. Snuggling up with your partner can also create a relaxing environment for sleep. Put your electronic devices away Mobile phones, laptops and tablets emit blue light and can disrupt your sleep patterns. Your body is naturally programmed to wake up with light, so put them away at least an hour before you go to bed and you will feel the benefit in the long run. Keep yourself fit Taking regular exercise is proven to improve your general wellbeing, but it also uses the energy you've stored from eating and aids your sleep. Try and get your exercise at least five hours before going to bed, to allow time for your adrenaline levels to return to their normal level. Avoid stimulants Coffee, alcohol and nicotine are stimulants which increase your blood pressure and heart-rate, keeping you awake. You are guaranteed to enjoy a better night's sleep if you avoid using these before going to bed. Maintain a comfortable room temperature Keeping the temperature at a comfortable level in your bedroom helps you get a restful night. Open a window, adjust the thermostat and heating in your room or use air conditioning where needed. Follow your body clock The body's internal biological clock is tuned into sunlight, so waking up when the sun rises can aid your natural balance. There are even alarm clocks that mirror the effect of the sun rising to wake you up gently every day.

Deciding where to go for a birthday weekend away can be difficult and many people are torn between booking expensive trips abroad or celebrating at home with family and friends. A happy medium in the United Kingdom is Blackpool, with the country’s number one seaside town offering a vast range of entertainment activities. Blackpool has a reputation for being unsophisticated, but scratch under the surface and you can find some superb venues for a birthday celebration. Read on to discover the top 4 ways to celebrate your birthday in Blackpool. Showboat offers a taste of Vegas Ma Kelly's have numerous bars and clubs across Blackpool, but their new Showboat and Champs Sports Bar is the jewel in the crown. Situated in the historic Uncle Tom's Cabin building on the North Shore, the Showboat hosts top class music acts every weekend. Groups such as Trilogy and The Aim are hugely popular, while top soul and Motown acts from the USA regularly appear at the Showboat. With full waitress service throughout your visit, this is a fantastic place to enjoy your birthday celebrations. Roll the dice at the casinos There are numerous casinos in Blackpool, with each of them offering the same types of games you find in Las Vegas or Monte Carlo. Just a short distance along Queen’s Promenade from the Showboat is a superb casino offering table games and slots galore, while there is brilliant poker action to be found at another venue towards the south of the town. Check out Party Casino before your trip for the opportunity to boost your bankroll and increase your chances of winning big at the coast. The perfect birthday Venue Situated close to the stunning new seafront at Cleveleys is a multi-award winning complex of restaurants, bars and function suites. The Venue offers a huge choice of food and drink, while the place comes alive at the weekend with top live bands and DJs. It is the perfect place for birthday boys and girls to don their glad rags and dance the night away. Viva Blackpool Outrageous comedy compere Leye D Johns hosts a sensational night of Las Vegas style entertainment at Viva throughout the year. The venue features a vast range of shows ensuring that all types of music lovers are well-catered for. Viva also boasts the longest-running Comedy Club in Blackpool, with three top class comedians every weekend providing a laugh-a-minute birthday night that you simply can’t afford to miss.

Birthdays are a time to celebrate. Although it can feel like the hands of time are ticking with every year that passes, they’re not an excuse to compare and contrast yourself with those around you, but to recognise your achievements and make some wonderful memories to add to the collection. This means having a really good think about what you want to do – what you enjoy, what you’d like to tick off your to-do list, and what will make you truly happy. If you’re in need of a little inspiration, then here are four great ideas that you might want to have a go at…

Live the life of a high roller

If there’s one day of the year when it’s perfectly acceptable to splash the cash and live a life of luxury, it’s your birthday, so why not loosen your purse strings a little and take a trip to the casino with your friends? Vegas is a great place to go, but if your budget just won’t stretch that far, host a themed party for all of your closest companions, and use a site like Vegas Casino to add some real-life excitement to the event with video slots and poker. Turn the lights down low, have some champagne on tap, and you’ll be transported in an instant.

Go for a pony trek

We all have different things on our to-do list, and those who are more outdoorsy might prefer this next idea: going for a pony trek. Grab a group of your closest guy or girlfriends, pick a scenic spot, and then ring around local riding schools to see who’s available to take you out. It’s entirely up to you whether you want to stay close to home or would prefer to turn your adventure into a long weekend with your favourite people. Whatever you choose, don’t forget to take some pictures to keep those special memories forever fresh in your mind.

Try your hand at kayaking

Another one for the adventurers among us is to try your hand at kayaking. Pony trekking will give you the chance to see beautiful places in a new and exciting way, but if you’d prefer high octane thrills to serene scenery and a transcendental experience, some whitewater fun will probably suit. It’s important to do your research, so you can find a reputable company who will keep you safe and give you the best possible time, but once you do, all you need to worry about is keeping your hair dry!

Book yourself in for a spa experience

Men and women alike might also want to use their birthday as an excuse to indulge, and if this sounds like you, there are few things that can compare to a luxury spa experience. Offering a variety of treatments, a beautiful place to stay, and often some seriously good food too, this is one way to really treat yourself, and make sure that the year ahead gets off to a truly paradisiacal start. So tell us, how are you going to spoil yourself on your special day?

Why are birthdays such a big deal anyway? Well, you’d be surprised to know that the birthday ideas you choose can tell your lady love a lot about your personality. And, the kind of life she can expect to have with you. Here’s another interesting fact. Women like to gauge the future of a relationship by the way their men plan their birthdays. And, that’s proved by Psychology Today. Read this feature that talks to you about how a woman sees a special gift as her man being in tune with her hidden desires. A thoughtful gift tells her that she is important to him and that he also cherishes the relationship as much as she does. Going out to different places to try exotic cuisine talks about your adventurous nature, and that you understand the importance of making each other happy in unique and whimsical ways. If you’re looking for some exciting birthday ideas, check out these options and blow your lady away by your charisma and charm.

1. Have a Surprise Birthday Party

Before you go, “what’s novel about that?” let’s tell you that it is the venue you select that should be totally new, weird, and absolutely exciting. Depending on her interests, you could take her to unusual and offbeat places. Like, for instance, a castle or maybe, dinner in an underground cellar or underwater location. It could be just the two of you or you could invite her closest friends and family members. New escape games worldwide are one of the latest and most unexpected venues where you can take her. The idea behind an escape game is simple. You will be locked in a room in a group of 6 to 8 guests with the objective to get out in 60 to 90 minutes. A series of clues hidden around the room lead you to the key and you’ll have a supervisor monitoring the room and offering hints in case you get stuck. Escape games have various themes and difficulty levels so you can take your girlfriend for an immersive experience where she can step into the sets of her favorite movie or book. You can also prolong the adventure by choosing a game with a series of rooms, each of which must be cracked within the allotted time.

2. Plan a Surprise Getaway

By adding a twist to the weekend getaway you’re planning with her, you can turn it into a novel birthday idea. In the two weeks leading up to the big day, bring her a series of gifts that can act as clues for the surprise. For instance, say, you have a beachside destination in mind. Begin by gifting her items like suntan lotion, sarong, sunglasses, flip flops, beach towel, pretty sunhat, and other things that she can use. With a little imagination, you should be able to come up with 8 to 10 items for each day leading up to the surprise.

3. Make Her Dreams Come True

Try this tip from the list of 35 Unconventional Birthday Ideas on Bustle. If you’ve been with your girl for a few months, keep a close ear out for all the things she’s ever mentioned she’s wanted to do or have. And, make it happen for her on that very special day. Plan for a gift every hour from the time she wakes up to the time you cuddle up in bed and say “Good Night!” Who knows this day could be one of those cute stories you’ll tell your grandkids someday. Remember, it’s not about the amount you spend on the gifts. It’s more about reminding her that you care enough to listen to her when she talks about what she likes or dislikes.

4. Take Her Back to When She Was 5

Like LifeHack describes, every adult likes to take a break from the pressures of day to day professional and personal commitments and go back to the time when there were no cares and worries. Give your lady an opportunity to be a child again. Plan a birthday idea where she can let her hair down and truly enjoy herself. When compiling the guest list, choose people she is comfortable around like, for instance, her siblings, close, childhood friends, and all the other people she hangs out with on weekends. Have a cute birthday cake with candles, hats, streamers, balloons, and the works. You could also organize kiddie games like pin the tail on the donkey, Jenga blocks, Monopoly, or any other. Now, here’s another birthday idea where you’ll want to dig around for information about her most memorable party as a child. She will love you for it.

5. Take for a Trip Around the World

No, we’re not asking you to break the bank or try an idea you can’t afford. All you’ll need are a bunch of posters of the most popular destinations of the world. Organize a party where your guests can pose in front of the picture and take lots of pictures like they would if they were to visit those places as tourists. Tell them the theme is summer so they can come in light, cotton wear with shorts and sunhats. And, order cuisine from around the globe to add that special touch. Travel the world with this birthday idea without leaving your living room. And, create a load of fun memories. You could also make her a promise that sometime in the not-so-far future; you’ll take her on a real trip to all these destinations. Birthday ideas need not be very elaborate or expensive. The thought here is to have lots of fun doing the things your lady love adores. Create an atmosphere of love and promise for the future and that will be the best birthday a woman can have.

The internet has changed the way many people make purchases, with advances in technology transforming the retail industry. There are now a wide range of payment methods available to consumers, with dozens of different options ensuring everyone can securely buy goods or services online. Debit/credit cards have traditionally been the most popular online payment method, but electronic wallets (e-Wallets) and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin have enjoyed a big increase in use in recent years. Debit cards deduct funds directly from a payee's bank account, while credit cards allow users to make a purchase 'on credit'. The service provider pays the merchant and payment is made by the card holder at a later date. Most credit cards charge fees and interest for their use and can be an expensive way to make purchases. Read on to find out more about e-Wallets and Bitcoin. e-Wallets An e-Wallet is an electronic purse which allows you to make online payments by using an email attached to your account without sharing your personal financial details. PayPal and Skrill are amongst the most popular options, and an excellent example of their use is within the online gambling industry. Many of the leading operators encourage players to use this method to fund their accounts because it is fast, secure and easy to use. Using offers like the Mohegan Sun Casino bonus code gives players additional funds to play with alongside their initial deposit. An e-Wallet acts as a buffer between your bank and casino accounts, giving players an additional level of security. Money is sent from your bank account to your e-Wallet and can then be used to fund your online purchases. e-Wallets can also help people to manage their finances better, as they provide the option to set aside a specific bankroll for their retail activities. Bitcoin The virtual currency first came to prominence back in 2009. Bitcoin uses decentralised technology for storing money and secure online payments that doesn't require banks or people's names. The system operates on a public ledger called blockchain which holds a record of all transactions that is accessible by all users of the network. Users generate blocks on the network to create Bitcoins which are created cryptographically by harnessing users' computer power. These are then added to the blockchain, letting users earn by keeping the network running. Many online websites now accept Bitcoin payments. Established exchange services like Bitstamp or Kraken allow you to purchase Bitcoins, charging a commission that is much smaller than those applied to e-Wallets. Transactions must be confirmed by the blockchain, but this usually takes less than an hour. Conclusion Traditional payment methods such as debit/credit cards can carry an element of risk, and this has accelerated the growth in the use of e-Wallets and Bitcoin. With easy to follow deposit and withdrawal options, this growth seems sure to continue in the future. However, while both have their advantages in terms of additional security, the almost instant nature of card payments suggests these will retain their popularity over the next few years.

Do you know you can make all your wedding dreams reality? And yes it’s possible even if you keep to a budget. All you require is a bit of creativity. And fall themed weddings lend themselves to some amazing ideas. Why do you need these ideas? Because you don’t want any regrets. When you save in some areas you can use the money to make other wishes come true. These tips will help you reach your goals no matter what your budget is. Your large budget can result in even more. Your small budget is enough to create the perfect wedding day. Here’s how.

1. DIY Your Wedding

Weddings are about creating memories. Apart from the momentous occasion of saying ‘I do’ you also have memories with family and friends. Guess what! The time leading up to your wedding is supposed to be a good memory too. Many couples only remember the pressure beforehand. If you pick a fall theme and decide to be original your preparations will be fun filled instead. And much of this comes from fun DIY projects. Flowers You don’t have to hire a professional florist. Oh! You didn’t know? So many couples follow usual wedding planning methods and waste a lot of money in the process. Flowers are expensive and the costs go up when they have to be arranged in a certain fashion. So do it yourself. Fall themes usually inspire big bouquets of bright flowers. These you and your friends can pick—or purchase—yourselves. This even makes your bouquet options easy. A simple garland of wild flowers may fit better with your fall décor than an expensive, rigid bouquet. Invitations Help your guests prepare for your wedding’s relaxed fall atmosphere by making invitations yourself. Because fall is synonymous with less refined features you don’t have to feel pressured to design the perfect invitation. Use theme inspired paper and fabric to create something original your guests will remember. And I promise you’ll have fun making them. Decor Is there anything more beautiful than fall leaves? This is simply one example of fall décor that will complement your wedding. And you can gather and arrange them as decor yourself. You don’t have to pay a professional to handle this. You don’t even have to pay for expensive décor. During fall second hand items can be efficient to highlight your theme:

• Use wood items borrowed from friends and family
• Purchase items from second hand shops at low prices
• Use old furniture and rugs to create a unique photo corner

When you do it this way you even include your loved ones in the preparations. Here’s what I love. You get more excellent memories while you spend less.

2. Use Fall to Your Benefit

Here’s an interesting tip I got. Fall isn’t necessarily peak season at most venues. But you may not know about different rates unless you ask vendors about it. Enquire about rates throughout the year. Pick a day that falls outside peak times so you benefit from lower rates. If you want a fall wedding anyway this won’t inconvenience you.

3. Book Somewhere Extraordinary

Stop before you book your hometown’s dream wedding venue. Is it worth it? Vendors escalate their usual prices the moment they know it’s for a wedding. Counter this problem by being original. A fall wedding matches perfectly with rustic themes and old farm architecture. Look for buildings resembling these themes in your area. They don’t do weddings? Are you sure? I approached owners of a building that matched my theme and got the best venue quote I could have dreamed about. Why? People love the exposure. Many venues want to expand into becoming wedding locations but they don’t know how to start. Your wedding will help them and their low rates will help you. This option helps you in terms of décor too. Old buildings don’t require much décor because they’re already beautiful and striking. For fall weddings they already fit into the theme. And don’t fret about inexperienced venue staff not offering good service. Owners will be extra vigilant to build their reputation so they’ll assist you as much as they can.

4. Stay Put

Now that you have the perfect setting, why move? Keep your ceremony and reception in one place and I guarantee you’ll save money. If you use a regular wedding venue you’re bound to get discounts when using two of their rooms. Alternatively you can have the ceremony in the reception hall. With a fall theme this will work perfectly to create a comfortable atmosphere. No guest has to drive after the ceremony so they can relax from the start.

5. Casual Eating is Better

And what about the food? You probably have quotes for sit down dinners, right? Think again. Food is how vendors make a lot of money out of weddings and it’s not necessary. This is especially true for a fall wedding. Why not simply serve hors d’oeuvres and finger food? Perhaps you can use it as another way for the family to get involved via self catering? Light up fires and let guests roast marshmallows after dinner. Once again these moments will be more memorable and the costs will be minimal. You can even save on drinks by offering warm drinks for free while offering alcoholic beverages for sale. This is more in line with your theme and will be less expensive.

6. Hold Back on Wedding Favors

No I don’t mean you shouldn’t appreciate your guests. And a gift is essential to express the value they have for you. But it’s not necessary to blow your budget on them. A fall theme is all about homely food. So why not give them some home baked goods as they leave your wedding in chilly weather? This may be more appreciated than impersonal items placed in drawers and forgotten along with all the other wedding favors received over the years. Which tip makes you rethink your plans? I know it’s challenging to plan a wedding. This pressure tends to blind us to original—better—ways of doing it. But now your creativity is sparked. Your fall wedding will be all you dreamed and more & your budget is one less item to worry about.

Life in the 21^st century is filled with hectic schedules, polluted landscapes and a million worries ranging from the rising cost of living to societal pressure to different health problems. Tough work environments and the constant pressure of living according to a certain standard are also responsible for creating stress in people’s minds and lives. Stress causes the release of the cortisol hormone which adversely affects blood pressure and important body processes like blood circulation, metabolism, etc. It may appear that a lifestyle full of stress is inevitable, but there are a few ways to avoid stress as much as possible. Go for a balanced diet Eating nutritious meals will keep your body processes balanced, improve blood flow, strengthen your heart, improve your digestion, and of course, fight stress effectively. Leafy vegetables, protein in the form of eggs, white meat and lentils, citrus fruits and dairy products such as milk and curds are important components of a healthy diet. Eating well will also make you more energetic and happy, thus keeping stress away. Hydrate often Be sure to drink lots of water, because water is known to flush out the toxicity in your body. Drinking plenty of water will prevent you from feeling exhausted and lack luster (consequences of dehydration), and will also do wonders for your skin. If you are a regular consumer of alcohol and/or caffeine, it is advisable to switch to water, because the rush that comes with alcohol and caffeine laden drinks is temporary relief and will only harm you in the long run. Water contains no calories and a lot more health benefits. Make time for regular exercise Even half an hour of brisk walking daily can help you fight health problems as well as stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which boost metabolism and give renewed vigor to the body. Joining a community gym or a group yoga class is a great way to get regular exercise and make friends with other participants. Avoid upsetting topics It is one thing to be aware of current affairs in the world, but it’s not always wise to spend a lot of time pondering on the same, or discussing it at length especially with those who hold opposing views. Thebannerherald.Com has a statistically informative article on how Americans have become more prone to feeling stress as of late, because of their continued concern regarding the political state of the country, and frequent discussions about the same. It is better for your health to stay away from topics which unsettle you and worry you. Spend quality time with near and dear ones Be sure to spend quality time with loved ones, as well as with yourself at times. Conversing with friends and family can help you unburden yourself from your daily worries, and get fresh perspective on how to handle them. It’s important to take time to relax and indulge in activities which please you. Apart from following these tips, don’t forget to think positive, and try to look at the bright side of life. Remember that stress will only make matters worse, and no matter is worth losing your peace of mind.

We all know someone who has everything that they could possibly need, and while you are very happy that they are at that stage in their life where they are content and satisfied with their life’s lot, they are a nightmare to buy gifts for! So rather than spending hours soul searching for the gift that they never realized they needed, read on to hopefully provide you with a solution to this annual dilemma.

1. A keyboard

Yes, a keyboard. Everybody needs a keyboard, and while you may be shaking your head reading this, you need to understand that this is not a regular keyboard. How about if this keyboard was virtual? If your recipient is an avid traveler or gadget lover, they will adore this gift. Lasers project the keyboard onto any flat and opaque surface, and it can be used with the majority of smartphones and mobile devices so you don’t even have to worry about whether it will be compatible.

2. A printer

The downside to our smartphones being such good cameras is that you can take many images that are never revisited or see the light of day again. You can, however, buy super small printers that are not only portable but produce traditional photographs within seconds. It is something that you may not buy yourself but would be more than happy to receive as a gift.

3. A surfboard

This troublesome loved one may have a surfboard already, but rest assured they won’t have a motorized one! Jetsurfus.com have a collection of motorized boards that can be used on any form of water, whether it has waves or not. The recipient will never again have to face the frustration of having a day surfing that fails to produce one decent wave to ride!

4. An experience

Possessions may be plentiful, but perhaps you need to think about an experience that you can share that will be the perfect gift: money can’t buy memories after all. Whether your friend is an adrenaline junkie who would love a day whitewater rafting, or they are more sedate and would enjoy a cookery class, there are experiences to be had to suit all tastes and lifestyles.

5. A subscription

There are many types of subscriptions which are on offer to suit any budget and interests. If the recipient is a keen traveler, the National Geographic is a wonderful gift that will help inspire their next journey, or perhaps for beauty product fans, a monthly box of organic products would be a treat.

6. An ethical gift

While your friend is fortunate to have all the possessions that they could possibly need, there are plenty of people that aren’t as lucky and lack even the most basic of life’s essentials. Take the opportunity of their birthday to sponsor a child who lives in poverty to help improve their life through education and health services. Not only will you have given a gift to the recipient, but a chance for a child to escape poverty. Buying gifts for people can be a challenge, especially when they appear to have all the possessions that they possibly could need; as outlined, you do have options, but sometimes the best gifts aren’t material at all!  

Gemstones are incredibly complex pieces of precious minerals which have been refined, cut, and made into beautiful pieces of jewelry or wearable accessories. Although some people may think that a gemstone is just a gemstone, that is not the case; each type of gemstone is incredibly unique with each one carrying its own history, meaning, and properties. Let’s take a look at three of the world’s most popular gemstones and their meanings.

#1: The Meaning of Diamond

No gemstone-related list would be complete without talking about the humble diamond, a neat and compact structure of carbon, which can be worth huge amounts of money. Because diamonds are pure carbon, they are among the toughest and most resilient gemstones, with raw diamonds being used for spiritual and metaphysical healing. Although most diamonds look clear, they can actually come in a range of different colors. Diamonds encourage power; they are a symbol of wealth and encourage their owners to step up and become a force for good in the world. It is said that diamonds encourage those wearing them to accept their spiritual destiny and their intense nature forces people to seek and radiate their inner light. The diamond’s symbol of steep and ever-lasting love makes it the most complex and revered gemstone on this earth. They say that diamonds are forever and, given that they are incredibly tough and are used as a symbol of pure and unconditional love, we certainly believe it.

#2: The Meaning of Azurite

The Azurite meaning revolves around communication; its crystal healing properties are fantastic if you have problems with concentration because it boosts spiritual wisdom by helping you clear your mind of negative thoughts and encourages positive communication. It is said that azurite stimulates the third-eye chakra and enables you to see inside yourself and re-connect with yourself on a spiritual level. Azurite is a very dark blue mineral found all over the world and has been used in jewelry since the dawn of time.

#3: The Meaning of Emerald

The emerald’s meaning focuses purely around the heart and is an activator of the heart’s chakra; emerald helps you stay in touch with your heart’s wisdom and helps you make choices from compassion and love over irrational thoughts and feelings. Emerald opens up your heart to better receive the world’s abundant flow of all things good – it can help you recover from heartbreak and settle deep emotional scarring. The emerald is widely considered to be a precious gem and has been a prized gemstone since the Ancient Egyptians discovered it thousands of years ago. There are hundreds of minerals out there which can be refined into gemstones, with many likely to yet be discovered. Gemstones are a timeless and pure reminder of the beauty of our world and each gemstone has its own individual history, meaning, and properties associated with it. If used and appreciated correctly, gemstones can work wonders for us but, unfortunately, they are often appreciated more for their physical characteristics than their healing powers.

Having tote bags on hand can be a really great thing. Not only are they good for the environment, but they can be really handy for you to utilize in a number of situations. In this post, we’re going to take a quick look at some of the benefits of having tote bags on hand that you should know and keep in mind.

1. They’re Great for Giving Gifts. When you look at giving gifts, you may worry that using a bag like this could be tacky – it’s really not! Taking the time to invest in printed wine totes can actually be really helpful when you want to give some wine to a friend. Or, if you’re ready to put money into having all sorts of reusable bags, you’ll find that you can save some cash when you buy in bulk.
2. They’re Bigger (and Better) Than a Lunch Bag. If you carry your lunch (and to be honest, that’s good for the environment and your wallet), you may be trying to sort out how to carry everything that you want to bring with you. Having options like tote bags leans that you’re getting something that is affordable and easy to use, and you can fit more in there if you want to as well!
3. They Last a Really Long Time. We don’t want bags that are going to fall apart when you look at them wrong. Instead, you want to have bags that are going to last a long time. As time has gone on, the bags that are available have gotten more durable, allowing you to put them through a lot of use and abuse before you start having any sort of issue.
4. They Save Money Over Time. Sure, you don’t have to pay for the plastic bags at the store, but you do have to pay for the trash man to come and deal with it, right? And, not only that, but you also have to make sure that you’re not using up a lot of space in your home. Over time, you’re going to end up saving a ton of cash when you keep the great looking bags that you’ve invested in over time.
5. You Can Store Them Easily. It’s really easy to store reusable bags. They usually fold up quite well, allowing you to get whatever you need into a decent amount of space, and you don’t have to worry about them eating up all of the closet space that you have.

Take a look at the tote bags that are available and see what is involved in purchasing them. By finding ways to make that easier on yourself and to make sure that you’re doing what is best for your purposes, you will feel like you have some great looking, long lasting, easy to use options that make sense for all that you’re trying to do and accomplish as an environmentally conscious individual.

Sometimes, the best gifts that we can receive are the ones we give to ourselves. Being happy, after all, is a very personal thing. We need to feel that we are ready and that we deserve the good things that come our way, and therefore what better way to achieve this than to give ourselves what we truly need? This could be better friends who support you rather than tear you down. It could be a new job that appreciates you. These gifts are very rarely material items. Instead, they are actions that we take when we decide that we deserve better. The chance of a fresh start, for instance, is one of the best gifts anyone can give themselves. It is perfect for those who feel like they have stagnated at their old life, who don’t feel like they have the opportunities necessary for them to complete their goals or even the neighborhood that makes them happy. Moving is a big deal, especially if you move to a new city or state, but if that is what you feel that you need then you must do it. There is a lot you can do to make the experience as positive and as beneficial as possible to further the positive impact your move will have on your life. You can get your life in order and get the fresh start you’ve always dreamed of with this simple guide: Don’t Stretch Your Budget When it comes to finding a new place, remember that it is always important to stay within your budget. Living in a smaller apartment can be perfectly doable if it allows you to live how you want to and, more importantly, it allows you to save. Never underestimate how freeing it can be by having emergency savings. Living paycheck to paycheck is very stressful, and finding a smaller space that allows you to do more with your income is great for your wellbeing. As a bonus, you can also learn to live more minimally, which will help you readjust your relationship with your material belongings and lead to a happier life. De-Clutter If you do opt to downsize, it’s imperative that you de-clutter. We tend to keep on to a lot more than we need to simply because we have the space to store it. That is why before you pack up to move, you should go through all of your belongings and decide whether you truly value an item or not. If you haven’t used it in awhile, ask yourself why you still have it. The more you de-clutter, the better your move and your fresh start will be. Make the Move Simple Packing can be exhausting and it can be stressful, especially if you need to pack up fast. There is a lot to worry about, like how to fit furniture in a moving van, how to pack delicates so that they don’t break, and a million other small things that make packing up exhausting. That is why hiring a Charlotte local moving company can be your best solution. They will pack up your belongings for you, move them, and unpack them for you, making your next move the best one yet and allowing you to focus on your wellbeing. Settle In It will be hard to explore your new home without a base camp, which is why you should take the first few days just to settle in and become comfortable in your new home. Take the time to unpack if you opted for a do-it-yourself plan, and put things away neatly. The more effort you put into decorating your new home with your old belongings, the better. You want your new place to feel like home, and using what you already own is a great place to start. Solutions for Small Spaces If you do now live in a small space, there are so many solutions that you can choose to make full use of your space. Living smarter, after all, is better than living bigger. You can use a loft bed to give yourself more floor space, or you can install custom closets so that you can have a place for all of your belongings. The options available to you will depend on the exact layout and status of your property. You will be able to do a lot more if you own the place than if you rent it. Getting to Know Your New Neighborhood Now that you’re settled in, it’s time to get to know your neighborhood. Wander around your neighborhood, visit the local cafes, and more importantly, find your local haunts. The more spaces that are appealing to you, the more you feel at home in your new community. The best part about visiting these local establishments is that you can likely find local events and organizations you can join so that you can meet your neighbors and make new friends. Making New Friends Making new friends as an adult is difficult, and yet they are so crucial to our happiness. That is why you need to get out there and meet new people as soon as possible. Contact old acquaintances to meet up for a coffee, join classes, talk with your neighbors, and generally be friendly. You will have to put yourself out there in order to make friends, but it can be done. Try to enjoy yourself while you are out there meeting new people and don’t put too much pressure on it. Get out there and do the things you like and chat with the people you meet along the way. Moving to a new place is full of potential, but it can also be terrifying. You need to really put yourself out there in order to make new friends and to set up your life in your new home. Finding your place in your new home is imperative for your mental wellbeing, and by following this guide, you can take a step in the right direction.

We feel your pain: Your tween daughter is already cooler than you. So what gifts can you give a growing young girl who’s totally connected, hip, and aware of what’s on the up-and-up? Kids are increasingly harder and harder to shop for, especially as they get older and start worrying about what their friends think is cool. If you feel stumped on gifts to give your pre-teen, don’t worry — we have you covered. Here are 11 great gift ideas your tween daughter will love: For the girly-girl… If your daughter loves all things feminine, you can’t go wrong with gifting her a cute accessory. With the weather warming up, this color changing jewelry puts a fun twist on the predictable necklace or bracelet. For the reader… Who doesn’t love Harry Potter? If your pre-teen seems more enamored than most with the fantasy franchise, gift her cool, Harry Potter-themed wall art, so she can decorate her room with something equal parts brainy and beautiful. For the artsy type… Gift your girl an elevated, more-grown-up coloring book. Coloring books are trending up and becoming increasingly-popular with teens and adults for stress relief. A bonus? She might actually put down her phone for once. For the music lover… She’s cool, she’s glam, she clearly loves her tunes. She’ll go crazy for these metallic, cat-eared headphones, so she can rock out in style. For the trendsetter…  Metallic, boho-inspired tattoos are all the rage. While she’s definitely (DEFINITELY) way too young for permanent body art, she and her friends can have fun playing around with these trendy, adorable temporary tattoos. For the summer lover… If your daughter would always rather be at the beach or the pool, she’ll love this mermaid-themed beach towel. For the beauty queen… Teach your daughter how to paint her own nails — and paint them well — then gift her with a few bottles of nail polish so she can start maintaining them. This color changing nail polish is extra fun for the summer months. For the cool girl… This beanie, with the cheeky ‘bad hair day’ scrawled across the front, is perfect for your fashion-conscious tween whose looks are often too cool for school. For the baker… If your daughter is into cooking or baking, this gift will help her take her craft to the next level. With a chocolate pen, she can draw out swirls, intricate designs, or even her name, and then let the chocolate harden into unique garnishes for her creations. For the storyteller… Your smart daughter loves to play games, which means she’ll love the puzzle game Rory’s Story Cubes. The interactive game lets players generate and build stories. For the girl on wheels… She’s got somewhere to be — and a way to get there. If your daughter loves to skateboard (or is even just interested in learning) upgrade her to a fashionable, ultra-cool Penny Skateboard. She’ll thank you later.

Throw a surprise birthday party that everyone will enjoy and remember. Make a checklist of ideas and tasks that need to be done first. Here are several tips to make your party a success.

1. Create a Theme

Build your surprise birthday party around a specific theme. Avoid making the common mistake of choosing the theme that interests you instead of the person who you're throwing the party for. Choose a theme from his or her perspective, even if it's not one of your personal favorites. Even for a simple birthday party theme, you need plenty of time to prepare. An elaborate theme requires elaborate accommodations like costumes or decorations. None of this planning should be done at the last minute. Rent a venue or transportation well in advance or you may not get the service that you want.

2. Hire Professionally Trained Bar Staff

In addition to having plenty of food, there should be drinks and preferably an alcohol stand for adult guests. When you are dealing with alcohol, be cautious when you choose the servers. You don't want a bartender or wait staff that serves anyone, so work only with certified professionals. Look for a TABC seller server certification that proves an individual's ability to serve alcohol responsibly.

3. Hire Catering

Hire catering to add a special touch to your event. Choose this option if you don't want to cook but don't want takeout food either. Have the caterers show up at the house, set up the food stands and serve guests individually. It's also the ideal option to serve food at a last minute. Take a few minutes to research your many catering options. Choose whether you want a buffet or banquet style service. Then, choose the type of food because some caterers specialize in snacks and finger foods, while others specialize in preparing and serving full course meals. If you are planning a surprise birthday party, stick to foods that your party recipient actually likes. It's also important to include the general tastes of your guests. Include a wide range of catered options that appeal to everyone.

4. Put Together a Slideshow

Adults reach certain milestones in their lives that deserve special recognition. Some people accomplish certain goals by the ages of 30, 40 or 50. A birthday party is the perfect time to discuss their life's events in a tribute. Put together a slideshow full of photos, videos and personal items that bring back memories. This tribute is another surprising element to add to a surprise birthday party. Consider inviting special guests to make surprise appearances. For a 50th birthday party, consider inviting old classmates or college friends to join. For seniors after the age of 50, it's ideal to reflect on their lives using this creative method. Planning a surprise birthday party is worth the secrecy and effort. It's still a difficult task that requires a lot of planning. Plan well for every aspect of this event and avoid any unexpected surprises along the way.

A pet can make a perfect birthday present for a child, grandchild or partner, but of course it's important to choose the right variety. That means not only the pet that's right for you, or the person whose birthday it is, but also one that's suited to the environment it will be living in. Getting a pet should never be a spur of the moment decision, and you need to ensure that you have everything in place that the pet will need before you buy or adopt it. With that taken into consideration, here are some of the pets that can light up any birthday.

Cats

America loves cats, as anyone who has looked at YouTube or social media platforms can attest. There are an estimated 88 million cats kept as pets in the United States, around 20% more than the number of dogs. The key to their success is their sheer beauty and variety, from sleek and mysterious black cats to the extravagantly coated Selkirk Rex and the otherworldly Siamese. If you're thinking about buying a cat as a present, you need to remember that they are naturally territorial and inquisitive, so they like to be able to wander around outside their home. For that reason, they may not be ideal if you live in an upper story apartment or near a busy road.

Dogs

With around 74 million pet dogs in America, you don't have to go very far to see one, and one of their chief attributes is their loyalty and their ability to give and receive love. That's why dogs can be great pets for children, as a close bond of friendship can quickly form between them. With a pet dog, a child will never be short of something to talk to or play games with, and they can help children learn vital lessons in forming relationships and caring for others. Dogs need a lot of exercise and attention, so if you or your child are happy to walk them every day, whatever the weather, they can be an ideal pet, but otherwise it may be worth considering other, less energetic animals.

Fish

You may think that cats are the most numerous pets in the United States, but in fact that accolade goes to the more than 140 million freshwater fish kept in homes across every state. Of course, the figure is skewed somewhat as most owners have several fish rather than just one or two, but there's no escaping their popularity or their merits. Pet fish can be stunningly beautiful and also very relaxing, and they can also be relatively low maintenance compared to some other pets. It's vital to remember, however, that they are pets and not part of the furniture, so they will need feeding, cleaning and the correct support equipment. For tips on how to look after pets, visit Petsarethebest.net. Dogs, cats, and fish all have supporters who would say they make the ideal pet, but whatever pet you choose make sure you and the recipient can give it all the attention it needs on the day it arrives and for the rest of its life. Do this, and you have a new member of the household who will bring joy to everyone in it, which is why they really do make the ideal birthday present.

Turning a year older is an important milestone. A birthday is an occasion to reminisce on the year gone by and an occasion to celebrate your achievements within that period. As with many people, you may want to throw a party to celebrate your birthday with family and friends but at a destination away from your home. Throwing a destination birthday party calls for extra planning than organizing a regular birthday party at your home or at the local restaurant. Having a destination party outside your country requires even more precautions and planning because it is essentially international travel with added responsibilities of organizing a party. Below are a number of tips on how to a have a destination birthday celebration. Planning and budgeting If you intend on having a destination birthday celebration then you must plan a few months before your birthday. Choose a destination and date of travel and then sit down to work on your budget. How much money are you willing to spend on the celebrations? Actually, the budget will determine how many people you can travel with and how long you are going to spend at your destination. Factor in the price of air tickets, airport transfer fees and the cost of hotel accommodation. You will get lower prices on air tickets and hotel accommodation if you book a few months before your date of travel. At your destination, will you have a birthday party or you’ll you simply tour the country, and that will be it? Whatever you choose, you need to know beforehand how much it will cost before you even book your plane tickets. You need to know if the cost of the activities you have lined up there fit in your budget, and if not, change to a more affordable destination. You also have the option of asking your guests to pay for their own expenses. Travel documents You need a passport to travel abroad. Make sure everyone in your entourage has a valid passport until your date of return and with sufficient blank pages for the destinations you want to visit. Visa requirements vary from country to country, and it is important if it is needed to enter your country of destination. Some countries process your visa at the airport of entry, but it is better to apply for and have it before you leave. This can be done online or at the respective embassies. Safety tips The most important safety tips are to take pictures of your travel documents and mail them to yourselves. These copies will come in handy should you lose your passport and visa while abroad. Next, you need to be aware of the prevailing political and security situation on the destination country. You’ll find these information on international media like Mirror Daily News and from your embassy. It is important to let your embassy know when you arrive in the country for two reasons; they’ll provide evacuation services should an emergency situation arise and they usually have travel and security tips for visiting sites in the country.

All birthdays are special, but some birthdays are a touch more special than others! Milestone birthdays offer a time to reflect on and celebrate our lives so far: our achievements, the friends we’ve made and obstacles we’ve overcome. Therefore, if someone you know is approaching one of those "big" milestones, now is the time to show them how much you care. Presenting a thoughtful gift is one way to make the birthday boy or girl feel special. Most people have mixed feelings about birthdays, however; so deciding what to buy can be tricky. If you’re stuck for ideas, here are five pointers to help you find the perfect gift for a milestone celebration. Memory Book Birthdays are a time to give thanks for our relationships and relive our happiest memories. Therefore, if you're looking for a special gift for someone you love, then creating a memory book could be the answer. You can either focus on one particular event (such as a vacation you went on together or your time at university) or you can include photos and memories showing your relationship so far. You can use a standard photo album or make a scrapbook depending on how creative you’re feeling. Jewelry Jewelry is the perfect gift for a milestone birthday because the recipient will think of you whenever they wear it. Finding jewelry from high-street stores is easy, but there's no way of knowing what style a person likes or whether they have any sensitivities to the jewelry materials without giving away the surprise. Luckily, you can find beautiful, hypoallergenic jewelry for people will skin sensitivity or nickel allergy at www.blomdahlusa.com, such as subtle and stylish earrings for everyday wear. Beverage We’re not talking about buying the birthday boy or girl a drink at the bar, but researching their favorite beverage and treating them to a full-sized bottle. A fun thing to do on a milestone birthday is to buy a bottle of whiskey or wine from the decade the person was born – this works well for 18th and 21st birthdays in particular when recipients might not have the budget to buy such a luxurious drink themselves. Tickets or Vouchers If you don’t know someone well enough to buy a gift, why not give the gift of experience? Ideas include vouchers for the theatre, tickets to a gig or concert or even money for a holiday. At prominent milestone birthdays, people will probably receive a lot of material gifts, so your voucher will offer something a little different for the recipient to look forward to, you could even include experiences such as visiting a historical site together to make new memories, or book a table at their favorite restaurant. Photographs Along the same lines as the memory book, framing a special photograph or having an image printed on canvas is a lovely gesture. If it's an image of the two of you together, it will show the person that you value your relationship with them and celebrate the times you’ve spent together. If you want to get extra sentimental, you can write them a note on the back of the print or hide a message inside the frame.

Companies are being judged more and more by how much health and wellbeing support they offer their employees. Candidates looking for jobs will actually seek out information on what a company can offer them – it is the ‘whole package’ that matters, not just the salary.

The 2017-2018 Global benefits attitudes survey, published by global risk management, found that 33% of UK employees believe their employers should pay them for keeping healthy. Gym memberships, healthier food options and mental health support is sited at some of the top things that people look for when searching for a job.

So when it comes to giving a little more to your employees, what can you do that won’t break the bank, but will show your employees you value them? One option could be a fruit basket. Fruitful Office (a company that delivers fresh fruit to employees in offices around London and Dublin) found that 79% of staff in a survey said the introduction of a fruit basket delivered weekly to their office premises made them feel more valued as an employee. Not only this, but they also found that 81% of staff thought having fresh fruit available at their desk had "improved their quality of life at work." What’s great about a fruit basket is that it is an affordable option for most companies across the UK, but it gives such a lot of benefits so it can be easily justified in your budget. Just some of the other benefits include:

Healthier staff: 70% of staff started eating more fruit in Fruitful Office’s survey, when fruit was introduced to the office staff room. This means those staff that may have ordinarily reached for a packet of crisps will be eating something much healthier, boosting their immune system (and perhaps even reducing the amount of sick days they take!)

Improved corporate image and reputation: People want to see that a company cares and providing well for your staff will have a good effect on your brand – staff will tell friends and family how great you are to work for, and the word will soon get around that you invest in your people. This is positive promotion for your brand, however big or small your company is!

If you’re on the hunt for somewhere to take your next epic camping trip, look no further than West Virginia. And sure, you might be scratching your head wondering “why West Virginia?” Well, consider the following reasons the Mountain State is the perfect place to visit:

• Perhaps a no-brainer, West Virginia offers some of the best mountain views, hikes and photo-ops in the country (they don’t call it the Mountain State for nothing)
• The state’s incredibly rich history, including its status as a key border state during the Civil War and status as a mining hub (resulting in a number of mysterious mining ghost towns through the state for out-of-towners to explore)
• West Virginia likewise offers a unique taste of the South, especially given its close proximity to the likes of Ohio, Pennsylvania and Maryland

Simply put, the joys of traditional southern camping combined with gorgeous mountain views make its state parks a prime attraction to adventurers. That’s why you see so many RVs and tent campers passing through to see the state to its fullest extent. Along with finding an RV rental in West Virginia or an old-school tent campground, there are tons of amazing state parks and forests sprinkled throughout the state to check out. Whether you’re looking for somewhere to set up camp or simply plan out your West Virginia adventure, definitely mark these spots on your map. Blackwater Falls State Park Arguably one of the state’s biggest attractions for nature lovers, the breathtaking 62-foot cascade that gives the park its namesake is something that needs to be seen to be believed. There’s a reason why the park is one of the top-photographed spots in the state: definitely worth checking out for a day trip if you can’t score a camping reservation here. Grandview State Park Perfect for the kids, this park offers miles of trails to explore, all of which provide prime viewing for local wildlife, including deer, bats and box turtles. Between its easy-to-navigate trails, great view of New Gorge and accommodations for visitors such as restrooms and picnic areas, Grandview is totally family friendly. Droop Mountain Battlefield State Park While only history buffs might be familiar with the Battle of Droop Mountain, visitors from all walks of life can appreciate the view of this stellar state park which is part of the Civil War Discovery Trail. Although proper camping isn’t available at this spot, it’s a must-see for its Civil War relics and lookout tower alone. Seneca State Forest Located near the previously noted Droop Mountain Battlefield, the state’s oldest forest is the perfect getaway spot for spending some quality time outdoors. In addition to outdoor activities such as hunting, biking and fishing, visitors should most definitely check out the forest massive 65-foot tall for a killer view. You may not hear much about West Virginia in the news, but it’s a wonderful vacation spot for nearby neighbors and out-of-towners who love the great outdoors. No matter what sort of adventure you’re looking for, you’ll definitely be able to find it in the Mountain State.

With today’s technology, there are tons of opportunities to earn extra income online, which is ideal for anybody who is too busy with school, work, or personal obligations to take on another job. If you perform an online search, you will see that there are several ways you can get paid for doing something that requires very little effort on your end. Sounds too good to be true? Well, you better believe it! By dedicating just a few hours every week, a good amount of money can be added to your cash flow. Here are some of the ways you can get paid from online activities. Source: Pixabay Answer Online Surveys You can actually get paid for giving your opinion online! Something as simple as answering online surveys will not take too much time and is relatively very easy to do. If you are an Android user, the Google Opinion Rewards app lets you earn credit which you can use for purchasing apps, games, books, music and movies on the Google Play store. Just take their surveys and you can start earning credits as soon as you download the app. Answering the surveys usually just take a few seconds, so the earnings can add up fast. Source: Pixabay Try Your Luck Playing Games of Chance Now this is fun – getting to play a fun game and having the chance to win big money! And what makes this even better is that you don’t have to spend money to start playing. There are a lot of online gaming sites that give away free spins when you sign up. One such site is BitStarz, one of the most trusted online gaming sites that displays the bitcoin accepted sign. Here, you can create an account for free and even get as much as 30 free spins. Source: Pixabay Sell Your Stuff Online Spring cleaning? Get your smartphone and take photos of the things you will no longer be using and sell them online. There are a lot of websites that make it possible for you to sell your used clothing and other stuff at home, such as Preloved.co.uk and HEWI (Hardly Ever Worn It). All you need to do is create an account, upload a photo of the items you wish to sell, and write a product description including the brand, size, quality, and the original date of purchase of the items and you are set to sell. There are other ways you can earn online by investing a few hours each day. If you are into writing fiction or self-help books, you can actually sell these in digital form on sites like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing platform. You can also upload videos on YouTube and earn from ads. Or you can take digital photos and sell them on Pixabay. It all depends on your interests, your available resources, and the amount of time you can spend each week. These are just a few suggestions, but you don’t have to limit your options to these. Ask yourself what you enjoy doing during your spare time and maybe you can earn from doing something you like!

The beautiful capital city of Belgium, Brussels is known for its chocolates, comic books, fries, beer, waffles and much more. Walking on the streets of this city is amazing with eye-catching views of string lights hanging above the cobblestone streets. All these make this city, worth to visit. The city is also a big political hub, but the cultural tendency has been able to attract many visitors from around the world. Buzzing bars, lively art spaces, great architecture and world-class restaurants sum up the definition of the city. You can reach the city by buying tickets for Emirates and go for the facility of Emirates online web check-in to save your time. A 24-hour tour of the city is perfect as it takes you through a number of historic centers and must-see venues. Here is your 24-hour guide to Brussels:

• Begin Your Day with A Delicious Breakfast

Brussels’ French fries are popular as much as Belgium is. Served in large cardboard cone, the fries are topped with a sauce. Do not worry; you are given the privilege to choose the sauce. You can buy them at various food stands. Later, you can go for chocolate, waffle, and beer of the city. You can also skip this breakfast and move to Charli, an inconspicuous bakery that offers delectable pain au chocolat.

• Head to “Îlot Sacré” or “Holy Island

The historic core of the city, “Îlot Sacré” is the part which witnesses a lot of tourists. Grand Place with its medieval look is located at the heart of this holy island. To avoid the rush, prefer reaching there quite early and cherish the views of guild houses and statue-lined City Hall. The place is also home to the statue of Manneken Pis, a boy who casually peed into the fountain. Pass through the Brussels Parliament to an elegant garden that will soothe your eyes.

• Admire the Museums and Gardens

You can treat your eyes with the natural bridge situated between the city’s lower and upper parts. You can sit on the circular bench and soothe your eyes with the natural views. Later, you can move to the prestigious museums of the city. Walk into the Musée Fin-de-Siècle Museum which houses Belgian’s turn-of-the-century art and is quite appealing to the eyes. Another museum you can visit is Magritte Museum which is home to a number of paintings painted by Belgian surrealist. Museum of Fine Arts, MIM Museum, BELvue Museum and many more are on the list.

• Lunch in Salbon Neighbourhood

Known for chocolates and antiques with a few restaurants, Salbon serves Belgian dishes with an amazing twist a Scandinavian-inspired space. If you are looking to buy a variety of chocolates, you can head to Place du Grand Salbon.

• Explore Dansaert district

Located Southwest from the Brussels, the district is nearly a relaxed street which stretches all the way to Brussels canal in one of the city’s liveliest areas. You have a lot there to hang out the entire day. You can also enjoy drinks at Place Saint-Géry.

• Enjoy the Nightlife

In the end, you can have a dinner at any of the tourist trap restaurants. Seafood is widely served there at the restaurants; you can give it a try at the famed seafood restaurant run by Chef Tom Decroos. Though there is no seating arrangement, still you can see customers lining up on the counter. Your 24-hour in Brussels can be extra amazing if you are getting a comfortable stay, arrival and departure. For that, you can choose Emirates flight for your departure and opt for Emirates online web check-in which will not only save your time but will also save you from unnecessary hassles at the airport.

If you are interested in getting new carpeting for your home but you’re on a tight budget, there are numerous ways that you can save quite a bit of money. The fact is that carpeting doesn’t have to be expensive, especially when you know about some of the better tips for saving. Not everyone can afford to spend a lot of money on new carpeting for their home, and with the right information, you don’t have to.

Look for Sales

One of the best ways to save money on flooring, in general, is to look for sales that businesses offer throughout the year. A lot of carpeting stores will provide their customers with discounted carpet prices around the holidays, so you will need to keep that in mind. If you take a long enough time to explore your options, you shouldn’t have any issues whatsoever with finding the carpeting you want at a low price.

Purchase In-Stock Carpeting

You should always look for in-stock carpeting, as it tends to be the cheapest. The more of a supply a carpet store has, the more affordable it will be. Those who choose out-of-stock carpeting always end up paying more because the demand is so much higher. If you have to put in a special order for your carpeting, you are definitely going to end up paying quite a bit more for it.

Don’t go too Fancy

Another good tip to keep in mind when shopping around for carpeting is to never buy a fancier or more expensive fibre than you really need. You might like the look of a certain carpeting, but chances are there is another option that is just as good at a fraction of the price. Don’t get too stuck on one specific type of carpeting that is high in price because there are so many different choices to look into.

Get Professional Installation

While it is true that you will have to spend money to hire professionals to install your carpeting, doing so could actually save you quite a bit of money. A lot of the people who try to install their own carpeting just end up making a mess that costs them a lot in the end. The best thing you can do is to pay for professional installation so the job gets done right the first time around.

Look for the right Seller

There are going to be some carpet retailers that charge higher prices than others, so you will, therefore, need to make a point of carefully looking into the options you have. The internet can be very helpful in doing this research, so use it to your advantage. Buying new carpeting for your house doesn’t have cost a lot of money, but you will need to do your homework before making any final decisions. Carpeting is a very popular choice in the UK, but it’s important that you know how to save as much money as possible when buying it.

Buying a gift for anybody during a special time is a difficult task, especially when they are fussy as to what they like and don’t like. Having a nature lover as your best friend or family member may seem like an easy roll of the dice when it comes to buying a present, but there are many gifts they will have received in their life that means they are yearning for something original. Luckily, there are a few ways you can use their love for nature to your advantage, by considering a number of original gift ideas that they may not have received yet. A natural retreat It is likely that your loved one will have been treated to a weekend break or daytime outing at some point in their life, but it is worth asking if they have ever had one with nature at its heart. This could mean anywhere from taking them to the nearby animal sanctuary for lunch, where you could go bird watching or tadpole spotting. If you want to truly show your loved one how much they mean, then take them on an exotic wild camping trip abroad, where they can come face to face with a natural world they haven’t seen before, and where you can go hiking together through the trees. A home aquarium For many people, their pride and joy is their home, most notably their living space. This is because many comfortable spaces act like a haven for people to relax in after a long and stressful day. Yet for many nature lovers, their home may seem lacking with its absence of nature. Therefore, it’s worth investing in an indoor aquarium as a gift, which showcases the best of marine nature. Having a water feature such as this will be a haven for underwater animals to flourish in their home, but you need to buy the right equipment to install it, such as fish tanks and water pumps. To find the best quality equipment, visit water-garden.co.uk to explore their range. Not only will this bring a new kind of nature to their fingertips, but will appeal to those who are in need of a pet. Magazine subscriptions If you live far away from the nature lover in your life and would like them to feel reminded of how much you care, then you might consider sending them something every month as a reminder. Recently, subscription boxes for natural beauty, vegan food, and healthy food have been growing in popularity, and nature magazines have come back into full swing, so you could always buy a monthly subscription to nature-specific boxes and magazines to get sent straight to their door. Sponsorships Rather than spend money on something they may either have or have no need for, you should instead sponsor a good cause. If they are a fan of animals, then sponsor a tiger; if they wish to help the world, then you can buy them a card detailing that the money spent on one is building a school in a third-world country.

Making your beloveds happy by sending flowers for everyone and eating the right kind of food are important for a happy and healthy lifestyle. A diet stowed with fiber, protein, essential fats and vitamins helps you stay in shape keeping you energized throughout the day. Including fruits, leafy greens, nuts and organic foods in your diet assists in preventing common illness like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. It’s recommended to consult with a nutritionist for a customized meal plan and related supplements to maintain a good health. That being said, we have prepared a list of 5 foods that anyone can include in their diet. Leafy Greens Leafy greens provide you with the fiber required to keep you feeling full without craving for sugars or unnecessary fats. According to The Journal of Nutrition, green beans and vegetables help prevent obesity and promote weight loss without the need for dieting or eating less. Other than broccoli and spinach, raspberries, chickpeas, and strawberries are also a great source of fiber that keeps your body lean and well nourished. According to a study, women who consume more fiber experience productive weight loss. By elevating fiber intake to 8 grams for every 1,000 calories consumed, you can lose around 4-4.5 pounds over time, as per researchers. Lean Protein Planning for healthy meals is not a complex concept. Protein from organic poultry sources and seafood must be a part of your regular meals. Although the amount you require will depend on the activity level and body mass it is recommended to at least take 40 to 75 grams of protein a day for women and 50 to 80 grams for men. While the average male may require 56g of protein a day, females need around 46g and the best way to ensure this intake is to use lean meat. It is low in cholesterol and saturated fat thus prevents coronary artery disease and the risk of stroke. Low-calorie sources like tofu, red beans, legumes, chicken breast, fish and dairy products are rich in protein and contain less fat. Fish Fish consists of fatty acids like omega-3 that are great for the functioning of the brain and the cognitive system. The fish oil is an important source of these essential fats and lipids that protect against skin diseases including UV damage. According to a research by American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, individuals who consumed more than 5 ounces of omega-3-rich tuna or salmon were at a lesser risk of developing precancerous skin lesions. The probability of these people developing the disease reduced by 30 percent. Sources like sardines and Atlantic mackerel are packed with omega-3s that provide protection to cell walls against damage from free radicals. Mixed Berries Including a serving of mixed berries like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries in the breakfast or with the dessert helps promote good HDH cholesterol levels. The fruits include anthocyanin and Ellagic acid that are known to reduce the risk of diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels as per a recent research published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Watermelon Our body is mostly composed of water so eating foods that contain a high water content like watermelons, strawberries, and salad greens is a great way to keep the tissues well hydrated. Watermelons are 92% water, so consuming this fruit nourishes the cells while providing the body with the required Vitamin C. They are also known to contain the antioxidant, lycopene that reduces the risk of heart disease and cancer.

A wedding is a beautiful day where not only do two people celebrate being in love, but they also celebrate their love with their closest friends and family. It’s a party that’s one to remember. It is full of love, and happiness, and usually plenty of food and drink. Weddings also tend to be quite expensive, which can either hurt a lot of people’s savings or simply be unattainable. If you have a modest budget for your wedding, however, don’t fret. Know what to splurge on, and what you can DIY for the ultimate wedding: Things to Splurge On:

1. The Photography

Photographers do so much more than point a camera and press a button. There is a lot to photograph on the day alone, from being able to capture the candid moments that make the day so special to directing you and your partner to get those romantic shots that you’ll love forever. Once the photo shoot is done, however, there is a lot of editing and post-production to go through. Many people don’t consider the behind-the-scenes work, which is why you need to hire a professional who is skilled in all aspects of the job. Looking for a photographer can be a tiring task. There are many portfolios to sift through and many interviews to hold. When choosing a photographer, though, you need to consider everything. For instance, does the venue have a photographer on stand-by who knows the venue like the back of their hand; do you want a local photographer who has a profound knowledge of where the best shots are? If it’s the latter, then you need to rein in your search to those in your local area. For instance, if you live in New Jersey, then search for the best Bergen County wedding photographer. Then, narrow down which photographer’s style you like best, and then further by their reputation. Opting for a company that organises and represents photographers can be a great way to ensure quality and professionalism.

2. The Venue

There are venues all over that are absolutely stunning, and many which can offer you a more unique backdrop than the traditional reception hall. Search for deals, both for specific dates or for guest packages, and you will be able to have a beautiful wedding all in one go. Many package deals include catering, meaning you can kill two birds with one stone. Look for a venue that complements your overall theme, and one that is, in itself, decoration enough. Things to Save On:

1. Your Wedding Dress

There are many wedding dresses out there, and many of them don’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Before you visit an expensive wedding dress store, make sure you consider all options available to you; vintage and minimalistic dresses are all the rage, as are beautiful and intricate, somewhat naked wedding dresses. Whatever you decide to wear, make sure you feel beautiful and comfortable in your dress.

2. Flowers

There are many ways to save on flowers. Stay in season, keep it simple, and work with your florist to stay within your budget. You don’t need to overdo it with complicated bouquets. In fact, flowers are often most beautiful when their design is kept simple and elegant. If you are having an outdoor wedding or after party, you can opt to decorate with other decor or make use of the gardens already established.

3. Food and Drink

Comfort food is the best food, and for a wedding, there’s nothing safer to choose. Simple foods are not only crowd pleasers; they are also much cheaper. However, make sure to cater to everyone’s diets; there are many vegans among us, and many people who have allergies. Ask in advance for those who need altered meals, so that the catering team and prepare for them properly and keep your wedding running smooth. For the bar, consider having one or two types of alcohol. You could make a deal with a local winery to stock your wedding for a good price, for instance. Weddings don’t have to put you in debt. The more inventive, creative, and compromising you are, the more you’ll be able to find options that allow you to have your dream wedding, no matter what your budget is. After all, the money you save can be spent towards a honeymoon or even a house!

Spring time is in deed a very important part of the year because ports call this season as the “queen of all seasons”. The facts behind this title truly supports the claim because it is the time when flowers blossom. It is the time after the biting winter has passed and steamy summers approach. It is most soothing season of all seasons and the climate remains moderate in most of the areas. It is the season of festivals, weddings, parties. This is the season when one does not have to worry about excessive rainfall or summer sweat. Since, most of the festivities happen in this season it becomes important and a little difficult to plan a party that would look different from all other parties. Here are some tips that would help one in organising a spring time party-

• Consider the reason behind the party- it is important to plan a party keeping in mind the reason behind it. If it is a birthday or a baby shower then one must plan things that are right for the kids and if it is a wedding, anniversary, bridal shower or any other party that is meant for a mix guests then one must plan according to that.
• Venue- choosing a venue should be the next important thing because banquets and gardens tend to fill up with advance bookings in this season. Of one is looking for renting a place then one must make it an early choice and if one wants to pick up a self- owned property then making it ready for the party is needed. Bridal showers can be given a special touch by choosing up places like parent’s house or places where the old generations had their bridal showers in following the tradition.
• Choose a theme- theme parties are in trend. It also provides one with a boundary line and a single path to approach on. Once the theme is decided one can go on planning things according to the theme. The cake, dress, food, decoration, return gifts etc, are all that can be decided according to the theme. Even the invitation cards can be printed after the theme is decided so that the dress code can be mentioned as required. A theme party looks dull if the guests are not in proper dress code and hence it is advisable to give away the invites with the theme mentioned.
• Furnitures- people often forget the fact that furniture’s are important. One obviously will not end up buying all the furniture’s for a party. One must search for the best place to rent furniture and get going with the booking for what would be required depending upon the expected number of guests and other needs.
• Food- a party is incomplete without food. Ordering good quality food according to the seasonal fruits and vegetables can be done.

Orange county event rentals can be a nice stop for renting the decorations and furniture and other things that might be needed for giving a complete look to a spring time party.

We all know that person. You know, the one who already has everything and who makes life difficult (in the nicest way possible) every time it comes down to buying a birthday present, anniversary and Christmas present. More often than not, they’re delighted with the gift you give them, but inwardly you’re cringing because you’re never quite sure if it’s right, and you know that they’re just too nice to show anything other than total appreciation. Of course, life is about more than just possessions, but you also do want to mark some occasions - milestone birthdays, anniversaries and so on – with something special. One really great idea, especially in these funny ol’ times, is to give a gift that keeps on giving. This could be a fruit tree, a magazine subscription, or you could buy silver coins from Golden Eagle Coins instead. Why give coins as a gift? Most of us are familiar with giving younger family members money on their birthdays, but this is a bit different. For a start, they won’t be able to take these coins to the shops and spend them! This might seem a bit dull to youngsters, it’s true, so your gift of Silver Dollars might have to be backed up with something cheap and fun to secure your place as favorite aunt… The main reason for giving someone collectible coins as a gift is so that they have an investment. By keeping hold of those coins for a number of years – maybe even decades – they’ll benefit from an increase in their value so that when it’s time for college or retirement, they have something to sell or leave as an inheritance. If you’re thinking about giving a loved one some valuable coins as a gift, then you need to make sure that they and the people immediately around them are trustworthy. It may also be a good idea to be discreet about your gift – no opening a package of shiny, expensive discs in the middle of a party and giving people ideas… It doesn’t have to cost the earth By now you may be wondering exactly how you can afford to buy a gold bullion coin that costs several hundred dollars. It’s great if you can, maybe for an important birthday or anniversary and especially if the whole family contributes. However, if your budget is a bit smaller, there are lots of cheaper but no less beautiful coins, like the 2007 American Silver Eagles. These coins cost between $20 and $30 each, although if you’re buying a set then you can often get a discount. Share the love Another alternative, especially if you’re giving the present with an eye to the birthday boy or girl’s financial future, is to buy them some shares in a gold company. This can work out very nicely indeed, as gold very rarely fails to make money for its owners. That said, though, there’s something incredibly thrilling about handling gold or silver bullion coins, so you could do both physical coins and shares, especially if someone’s been very good in the last 12 months…

Every entrepreneur finds their niche along the way, and many choose to head into the entertainment industry. One such route in this industry is to open a kid’s birthday party venue but making it a successful business, as with everything else, is often easier said than done. It doesn’t have to be a complicated process, though. From start to finish, these are the steps you’ll need to take to make your new startup a success. Start With A Plan If you haven’t already, sit down and make a business plan for your new birthday venue. Keep things simple to start, making each goal and idea practical. You’ll be able to come back to this plan later and make adjustments as your business grows. During this time, you’ll also need to pick out a name for your business. A name is essential for proper branding, but you have to ensure that another business hasn’t already taken your idea. Head over to the Georgia Secretary of State business search, or whichever state you’re from, to find out. Check Out the Competition It never hurts to know who you’re up against, so take a close look at other venues in the area. Will you be able to compete with what they offer? Do you have the capital to turn your idea into a rival force? You might want to check out the competitive landscape as well. Is there an up and running birthday party venue whose business model is different from yours? Instead of viewing them as a competitor, perhaps the two of you could collaborate on events to make them the best in the area. Buy When You Can The spirit of entrepreneurship almost demands that you build a venue from the ground up, but this is rarely the wisest option. It comes with a lot of trial and error that could leave you on the wrong end of gains and losses. Instead, search for an already established venue that you can buy. Their proven track record of operations and dependable revenue streams make them ideal. Plus, you can rework the building to suit the ideas laid out in your business plan with the money you saved on construction costs. Cover All Your Bases After purchasing the venue, it’s time to start hammering out the details of your business. Where will you buy your bulk balloons from? How will you incorporate themes from princesses to superheroes, and where will you buy those supplies? If you plan on serving alcohol to the adults, you’ll need a team of lawyers like Monshaugen & Van Huff who can navigate the tricky realm of liquor laws at children’s parties for you. Bounce houses, catering, party favors, and more should all come from bulk locations that you can trust. Should You Franchise? Your chances for success are far greater when you choose to join a franchise than on your own. It might not be your cup of tea, but it never hurts to look. Franchising can make this venture a whole lot easier. Advertise Away Now that you’ve created your business plan, secured your venue, and hammered out the fine details, you’re ready for opening day. Make sure to advertise in print and online until your reputation begins to spread by word of mouth. Starting your own birthday party venue is a fun and exciting venture. You will need to stay motivated in order to be productive and move forward with your business. So, make sure to follow these steps, and you can turn your idea into a full-fledged success!

As an employer, the best you can hope is for your employees to do their best. Working harder and burning themselves out isn’t conducive to a healthy workplace or sustainable. Instead of pushing your employees to work harder with longer hours, encourage them to work more productively. Being productive means working better with less effort. It’s better for you and for your employees, and doing what you can to help them achieve this productive streak every day is as simple as: Improving Your Break Room Your break room is the hub of rejuvenation at your office, and it is the first place all employers should look to help improve their employee’s productivity. Offering free coffee, for instance, is a must. We all need a caffeine boost, and offering great tasting coffee can be the nice bonus your employees need to help them get through the day. When you have a lot of employees, however, a little-filtered coffee pot won’t do. You will need a bean-to-coffee machine like Office-Coffee can offer. It’s perfect for companies and can handle serving around 300 cups of coffee every single day. Additionally, you need to offer high-quality tea bags for those tea drinkers too. Other ways you can improve your break room include adding tables, fun design, games, books, and even some magazines and newspapers for them to read. You want your break room to be beautiful, and you want it to offer your employees a real break from their work. Couple this with healthy complimentary snacks, a fridge, and a toaster oven (if you don’t have a full oven) to help your employees eat healthy. Healthy eating leads to improved brain function, which in turn leads to more productive work. The important thing to note here is that the better their break, the more productive they will be. Breaks are imperative to keep your employees sharp and to keep their minds active. Be Flexible with Hours If your employees work based on hours, rather than the 9-5 grind, you’d be surprised at how much work they do. Of course you can’t have your office open all hours of the day, but allowing your employees to come in an hour earlier so that they can leave to make it to their child’s recital can help boost morale and employee loyalty. This slight flexibility won’t cost you more, but it will lessen your employees’ stress and encourage them to work better. Besides, trying to balance work and life can be stressful as is so, helping in small ways can be beneficial to both parties. Value Individual Performance Another way to boost productivity is to reward it. If your employees know that working hard during the week might earn them an early afternoon off on Friday, they have greater incentive to be focused. Similarly, if you reward their milestones (bringing in so many clients, accomplish goals, and so on), you can encourage every employee to better themselves. Productivity is best for business. It means your employees work better while also remaining relatively stress-free. This, in turn, improves their health and mental wellbeing, and can lead to happier, more loyal workers who want to do their best to help you and your company succeed.

Image Source We all have that friend who is just impossible to read when it comes to gift giving. As much as we love them, sometimes it can be very stressful trying to think up a gift we think they will actually like. Well, worry no longer! Below is a list of some fun but unique ideas for birthday gifts. Surely some of these suggestions will put a smile on even the pickiest friend's face! Customize to the extreme! The internet has given way to a number of amazing technological innovations. But when it comes to birthdays perhaps the greatest gift it has given us, is the gift of customizing! Cards were really the first thing big thing to be easily customised with Moonpig launching all the way back in 2000! However today not only are there numerous customizable card companies, cards are hardly the only thing you can add that special, personal touch too! Today the internet is absolutely bursting with sites that will let you personalise a whole range of gifts to your heart's desire, and personalised gifts are becoming increasingly on trend. On the absolute quirkiest end, there are companies like Boomf that let you print pictures on marshmallows, meaning you can send your friends their best Instas on a sweet treat! For the less sweet-toothed friend, there are also sites like Cafepress, these sites let you make your own shirts, notebooks, cushions, you name it! Sites like these open up a world of possibilities for presents, whether it be pictures of a beloved dog on a t-shirt, a favourite quote on a notebook. If you happen to be on the less artistic side, many of these sites like Redbubble, and Society6 are also the home to a number of independent artists. So you can still get something customized to your friend's interests without having to do the design work yourself! An Event or Experience Not all gifts have to come tied up in a bow! One type of gift that is becoming increasingly popular is buying your loved one an experience. In fact, some studies suggest that we prefer experiences to products! Once again the internet comes to the rescue with a number of companies that can fulfil any requirement you might have. There are a number voucher companies that offer trips at a reduced price; making for the perfect and spontaneous birthday gift. Throw the dice on picking a trip or experience and go wherever the voucher company may take you! Another unique idea is casinos as gambling is a perfect activity for celebrating a coming of age birthday. Celebrating your ability to be able to legally do something for the first time is both a memorable and fitting event for a big birthday! For these birthdays there are many casinos that can fulfil this requirement, both in person, or if your friend prefers a quiet night in - online. Many online casinos even offer free bets, and there are sites like Oddschecker that can single out the best deals, so this idea is also very cost effective! There are also a number of companies dedicated to offering unique days out, and unusual opportunities that you would rarely come across like zorbing or helicopter rides. Trying something for the very first time is a great way to mark a birthday and make it truly one to remember. Take Them Out! There can be some stigma about asking your friend exactly what they want. Some of us would never want to admit such defeat. So taking your friend out, whether it be for a meal or on a shopping trip so they can look their best with the latest fashion trends, can be a good way to ask them exactly what they want without actually asking them. Taking out a friend for a meal at their favourite restaurant is both a wonderful gift and experience for the two of you to share! Similarly, taking your BFF out on a shopping trip is both a great birthday day out and a wonderful way to spoil your friend on their special day! Image Source At the end of the day, gift-giving shouldn't be a burden but a fun way to show the people you love how much they mean to you. While this list chronicles some of our favourite suggestions, all good gifts come from the heart.

Buying and choosing the perfect cake can be a hectic job. The hustle and bustle involved in a bid to select the ideal tasty treat for your occasion can sometimes be a time-consuming task. However, with the current technological advancements, we have seen the rise and rise of online marketplaces. In fact, e-commerce has been growing at a rate of 23% each year. It means that buying a cake online has become a simple task that can be achieved by a few clicks at the comfort of your home. With such ability comes a whole host of benefits that you can accrue when ordering your cake online. Some of them are listed below.

1. Competitive prices

Long before the internet era, it used to take days searching for a shop with the best cakes at competitive prices. Not anymore. Simply logging into a cake shop website such as allcakeprices.com will provide you with all the comparisons of the shops available and their prices. Each shop looks to have the best prices, and as a result, you will end up maximizing the value of your bucks.

2. Convenience

This probably ought to be the first reason, but with that said, online cake buying gives you the flexibility to order from anywhere and at any time provided you have a good internet connection. Simply log into a cake shop website and email them your requirements and you will have your cake delivered to you within a few days. Online buying enables you to track the cake and also give instructions promptly on your preferences without the need to visit the shop physically.

3. Variety

When buying your cake online, you're not limited to the number of shops you can visit. On top of that, you have a surfeit of cakes to choose from with pictures to show you what you will get. It thus makes the selection from the miscellany of cakes for your occasion easy.

4. Quality

Another advantage of ordering your cakes online is the ability to get the best shop to provide the best cake for your occasion. 84 percent of adults check the reviews of products online before deciding to make a purchase and trust them as much as they would trust a friend. As such, buying your cake online enables you to see the experiences of other buyers and help you make a better decision.

5. Easy Payment Options

After selection of your cake comes the next task: payment. Online purchasing makes it easy to make payments with a simple click of a button. Whether you pay with online wallets or your credit card, you're guaranteed a smooth experience. Most websites will give the option for a refund in case you decide to cancel your order within a specific period. Conclusion There’s now no need for you to go through the tedious humdrum of going from shop to shop physically to buy your cake. Simply buy online and have an effortless trouble-free experience. These and many more benefits await you should you chose to follow this path, and you will enjoy buying your delicious centerpiece!

If you're looking for the perfect birthday gift for yourself, forgo buying yourself a new watch or a new smart phone and instead hire yourself a family lawyer for your birthday. To learn why hiring a family lawyer for your birthday could be the best birthday present which you buy yourself, simply continue reading. Five reasons why you should get a family lawyer for your birthday: 1. A family lawyer may prove useful if you ever decide to get married In today's day and age it's a wise idea to draft up a prenuptial marriage agreement, before you commit to marrying your partner as if you forgo signing a prenuptial agreement you could risk losing assets which you accumulated before your wedding day, if you ever end up getting a divorce. As an example, if you brought a house before you got married and decided to get a divorce, if you stipulate in your prenuptial agreement that you will retain 100% of the rights to your property, you won't have to worry about your partner ever fighting you for your property, should you ever decide to file for a divorce. 2. A family lawyer will be able to guide you through the process of writing a will Even if you're in your 20s, 30s or 40s it's well worth having a will written as even if you don't have dependents such as children in your care, you may want your assets to be passed on to your siblings, parents or close friends, should you ever pass away prematurely. As if you don't have a will in place, the courts may get to decide how your assets are split. Prime Lawyers Sydney, will make sure this situation never happens as a professional family lawyer is always there to help. If you have children it's even more critical that you hire a lawyer, in order to write up a will as if you pass away before your time, you'll want to ensure that your children are well taken care of. 3. A family lawyer can help you file the appropriate documentation to legally adopt a child If you foresee yourself being interested in adopting children in the future, your chosen family lawyer will be able to help you with all of the necessary legal paperwork which is involved in the adoption process. 4. A family lawyer can fast track divorce proceedings If you ever end up in the unfortunate position of having to file for a divorce, having a family lawyer who you can call, will help you fast track your divorce proceedings. Which will be helpful as the sooner you can finalize your divorce and start your new life, the happier you'll be in the long run! 5. A family lawyer can help you win a custody battle If you ever end up fighting for custody of your children, grandchildren or your family or friend's children, you'll need to call a lawyer as soon as possible in order to increase your chances of winning custody of the children in question. So if you want to give yourself the best birthday present which money can buy, it's well worth hiring a family lawyer for your birthday.

If you've decided not to cook for your next birthday party and have your heart set on hiring a professional caterers, continue reading to discover a few handy tips which will help you pick the right caterers and have the best big birthday event of the year. Tips on Picking the Best Catering for Your Birthday Party: 1. Ask each catering company for samples of the dishes which you're interested in Whatever you do, never hire a catering company to cater an important event such as a birthday party, without first sampling some of the dishes which you're interested in having served at your event! As it's crucial to ensure the quality of all of the dishes, which you intend on paying for. 2. Read each menu provided by each catering company carefully By reading through each menu, which you can get your hands on before your special day, you'll be able to choose a catering company which offers the type of food, which you know that your guests will love. You can find a variety of dish options for your big event at, www.flavourscatering.com.au. After all, there's no point hiring a catering company whose menu doesn't offer vegetarian options, if you or some of your friends are vegetarian. 3. Ask each catering company if they are able to customize their dishes for you Ideally it's well worth hiring a catering company who are willing and able to customize their menus and dishes in order to suit your preferences. As an example, if a catering company specializes in producing mouth watering burgers but you have a preference for mini burgers which are known as sliders, a professional catering company should be able to alter their menu, to provide you with gourmet sliders. If a catering company rudely tells you that they're unable to personalize dishes for you, it's well worth hiring a more courteous, accommodating catering company instead. 4. Look for unbiased reviews, before hiring a catering company for your birthday If you don't want to waste your hard earned money on an unprofessional catering company who serve up less than stellar dishes, that won't impress your birthday party guests, it's seriously well worth researching each potential catering companies, to see whether or not their past clients were satisfied with their efforts. As an example, you may want to check Yelp for honest, recent catering reviews. 5. Ask your close friends if they are able to recommend a catering company If you recall attending a party which boasted mouth watering appetizers and tantalizing desserts, it's well worth asking the host, whether they're able to pass on the name of the catering company, who provided food for their last party. As if you enjoyed the food which they provided your friend or family member's event, it's highly likely that you'll be satisfied with the food which they'd provide for your birthday party! 6. Make sure that your catering company offers finger food as well as mains Finger food is always a great idea for a party as guests will still be able to mix and mingle, whilst enjoying a bit of party food! So if you have your heart set on hiring caterers for your next birthday party, make sure to use the six tips listed above in order to choose the right catering company.

Goa, the land of gorgeous beaches and divinely beautiful churches is also known for its rich and vibrant musical ethos and culture. Goa, a small state hugging the coastline by the side of the Arabian Sea in India is one of the most popular destinations for both international and domestic tourists. Some come to relax and refresh on its gorgeous beaches, some come to party and have fun on its beaches, discotheques, and cafes. If you are in India getting to Goa is quite easy and convenient.You can book cheap air tickets for Delhi to Goa flights or get to Goa from other locations like Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, etc., by air or train. Some come to Goa especially to be bowled over by the music scene in Goa. Goa is a melange of musical styles that evolved over successive influences of cultures. The music ranges from Indian classical to Western Classical. Goa has its own folk music influenced by the Portuguese and original indigenous cultures. In the decade of the sixties the influx of hippies from the United States and elsewhere. The hippies brought with them their own music which has again evolved with Goan nuances. Goa is the home of a special genre of Electronic Music that is known as Goa Trance which later evolved into what is known today as Psychedelic trance or Psy Trance. Every year the land of Goa resonates with the vibrant music of the best from all over the world. A number of music festivals across genres draw huge crowds of performers as well as fans and aficionados of music. Some of the music festivals of Goa that you must attend are listed here in random order. The Monte Music Festival  Imagine being on a hill offering spectacular views of the rivers and valleys below. The beautiful sights that appeal to your visual senses are heightened by the notes of mellifluous music. This is how it is at the Monte Music Festival which is an annual affair in Goa. The Monte Music Festival is held at the Our Lady of The Mount Chapel which is situated on a hill in Old Goa. The festival is committed to showcasing the best of Western Classical and Indian Classical musical genres. The festival is not only about music but also incorporates dance. The festival is a celebration and fusion of the musical and dancing talents of national, international, and local artists. As the sun sets casting a golden glow on the chapel, the festival takes off with music and dance that may range from the sweet notes of a Church Choir, to the rhythm of the folk song from the North-East of India. It could be a traditional dance form of India that will captivate you or the strains of a guitar playing soulful classical music. Indeed the Monte Music Festival is music to the ears. The Goa International Jazz Live Festival The Goa International jazz Live Festival known by its abbreviated form as simply GIJLF is an annual feature that brings Goa alive with some funky and new age Jazz music. The festival aims to popularize Jazz in the country and brings together artists who create some wonderful and foot tapping music. The festival sees a spectacular fusion of Jazz with other genres that include R&B, punk, Hip-Hop, and others. The Goa International Jazz Live Festival is a part of the Jazz India Circuit. World Mouth Harp Festival Arambol an area in Goa is known for its beautiful black sand beaches. However in the month of February, every year Arambol resonates with the mellifluous notes that emanate from mouth harps of varied kind. Arambol is the venue of The World Mouth Harp festival. The festival is a unique platform and opportunity for Mouth Harp players and other musicians from across the world and all genres to showcase their talent. The festival is an auditory treat to music lovers and also a great platform for interaction and exchange of ideas between the best Mouth Harp players of the world. What is unique about the World Mouth Harp festival is that it is not operating as a commercial venture. It is a community based festival where all are invited and anyone can attend. One can take part in the festival either by being a performer, by teaching budding musicians, volunteering as an organizer and helping organize the festival or even by simply attending and enjoying the music. There is not ticket for this event and anyone can enjoy some soul stirring and foot tapping music absolutely free. The Hilltop Music Festival If Electronic music is something that hypnotizes you then the Hilltop Music Festival is where you need to head to. It is a festival of music and dance that spreads over three days. Small Vagator is the area in Goa where the festival is usually held. The place gets transformed into an ocean of trance, dance, and music with the Hilltop Festival every year in the month of February. Three days of dance, trance, and music bring the nights alive in a vibrant and crazy frenzy. The Hilltop Music festival is indeed one of the best and the biggest of Electronic Music events that sees frenzied crowds flocking to the venue on each day of the festival and shaking their feet to stirring music that will touch you deep in the heart and set it aflutter. These are only some of the festivals that entice music lovers to Goa. But the very air of Goa is tinged with the rhapsody of music. Music can be heard and found in many of the cafes as well as the joints that dot the beach.If music is in your heart and you want to let go yourself in the freedom of dance, then Goa is the place to head to. Goa is the place where all your musical fantasies will come alive in vibrant and psychedelic colour. Can you hear the beat of drums, the soft notes of a piano, and the soulful strains of a Church choir? Then it must be Goa calling.

Birthday parties are fun for everyone, including the attendees. If you have no idea what gift you need to buy for the person whose birthday it is, you can ask subtly. Once you consider a few things, gift giving does not have to be difficult:

Gifts for Women

Buying presents for women can be very easy because they are always talking about their favorite things. Just make sure that you consider the preferences and tastes of a specific woman instead of assuming that she will like something because she is a woman. Unless you know the measurements of the person, you should avoid buying clothes for her. However, accessories make great gifts because they do not require specific sizes. For instance, if your friend’s birthday falls in the winter, you can get her a pair of gloves or a stylish hat. Fashion jewelry is also a great hit with the ladies, especially earrings and purses. If the woman has other interests that you know about, you should consider buying a present that caters to those interests. For example, if she loves applying makeup, you should think about buying her a set of makeup brushes, but do not buy her makeup unless you know the brand that she uses.

Gifts for Men

It is good to gauge the interests of a man early on if you want to buy him a present. What are his interests? If he is a good jazz dancer, you should start looking for jazz shoes for dance. You should also consider the type of present that you would like to give him: do you want to opt for something fun or practical? Video games are a great choice for men who like gaming. However, choosing a game might be tricky, especially if you do not know the type of console he owns and the types of games he likes. For a fashion forward man, you should opt for striking accessory pieces such as cufflinks and pocket squares.

Gifts for Kids

Buying the right present for a child is a difficult task, because you have to consider his age range and personal interests. For a child below the age of three, you should choose a stuffed toy, but stay away from small toys that might cause him to choke. Between the ages of 3 and 5, you can buy the child a building toy or pretend toys. Children over 12 need something to jog their minds, so you can buy advanced building toys or puzzle games. If you are buying a toy for someone else’s child, you should consider speaking to their parents before you buy anything. That way, you can buy something that the child will actually like.

Gifts for Teens

When buying a birthday gift for a teenage child, you should have the same mindset that you would have when shopping for an adult. Make sure that you gauge the teenager’s interest to find out what they like. Before purchasing any item, you should consult with their parents to figure out what is age-appropriate. You should also look for something that keeps up with the latest trends when shopping. Instead of buying high-end items that the teen might already have, you should opt for accessories. If the teen has a car, you should get him car accessories, as they are a safe bet. If the teen has a favourite hobby, such as yoga or hockey, you could buy them a birthday gift towards their fitness lifestyle.  Buying a great gift does not have to be hard. If you have shopped online, you know that there is something for everyone on most big online stores. You can even buy something and have it delivered directly to the birthday boy or girl.

Have you ever gone to the stationery department of your local department store for a birthday card, only to find that nothing is really exactly what you are looking for? Some have the ideal front but inside the sentiments aren’t what you’d like to express. Other times, the inside is perfect, but the cover is horrible. Wouldn’t it be great if you could pick and choose what elements you’d like inside and out? Actually, you can! If you want to choose and write the perfect birthday card, all you need is a computer, Internet access, and a printer. Here are some steps to follow and you’ll have the perfect birthday card each and every time you need one.

What Is Your Relationship?

Now, think again to the card aisle you usually browse through. There are a number of ways in which those cards are laid out. Some are by age, others are by relationship and others yet are by theme or style. The first thing you need to think about is your relationship to the card recipient. If you are a close friend or family member, your choices are easier. However, if it’s a boss or casual acquaintance, you may need to be a little more selective on how you design your personalized card.

Choose the Sentiment You’d Like to Express

One of the most popular kinds of birthday cards are those hilarious cards that start with a leading statement on the front but get even funnier on the inside. For these, memes make the perfect cover. Check out some of the whacky ones on lolhit.com and you’ll find a ton of funny catchphrases and memes you can use that lead up to what they’ll find inside. Some can be shared with co-workers, bosses, and friends, but unless you know their sense of humor, be careful what you use. What is funny to you and your friends, may not be funny to others.

Find an Online Template

If you have the Office Suite with Publisher, you can find templates for layouts within your program. However, if you prefer fillable boxes with preset places for images, you can find online templates which are easy to use and can be printed from the screen or downloaded if you prefer to save your work for additional or last-minute edits. Most people, however, prefer to customize it online and print right from the website.

Cardstock Is a Must for Printing Cards

Most stores have an assortment of cardstock you can choose from. However, if you are printing a full page folded in quarters, you’ll want paper which is heavier than conventional copy paper but not quite as heavy as cardstock. It is best to use templates based on a half-sheet size, which you can easily cut with a cheap paper cutter; or you can buy that size as well. If you are going to make your own cards throughout the year, it might be best to buy a package of 5 ½ X 8 ½ card paper precut by Avery. Even Walmart often carries this in stock. Never choose a ‘second-best’ sentiment for a birthday card again. Create and write your own to express exactly what you want to say. It’s fun, easy, and your friend or family member will truly appreciate the fact that you thought them special enough to deserve their very own custom card.

There is never a winner in any divorce. It is always disappointing and sad when a marriage breaks down, and you are forced to endure divorce proceedings. Yet, you can hope to secure the best possible settlement to help you move on with your life. To do so, read the following five simple steps to winning your divorce case. Hire the Best Attorney Building a winning team can help you secure the best settlement in a divorce. Not only must you hire an attorney with extensive experience in divorce and family law, but they must make you feel at ease and encourage trust in their knowledge and skills. You can then have confidence that they will provide the best representation. Don’t Leave Your Marital Home Do you want to remain at home with your children both during and after the divorce proceedings? Do not leave your marital home. If you do, a judge could rule you gave your partner de facto possession. It is also wise for your children to remain within the home to provide them with a sense of normality throughout the process. Always consult your divorce attorney for advice before you make any big decisions. Inventory Your Assets Your partner might be tempted to hide assets from you, so you cannot claim them during the divorce process. They might also excessively spend their savings or might even be tempted to rack up credit card debt. It’s smart to inventory your assets before or at the beginning of the proceedings. Maintain excellent records and attempt to collect any financial documents or digital evidence that could prove their finances haven’t been fairly reported. For example, you could utilize the skills of a talented digital forensics expert to gather and analyze information, such as emails, text messages, spreadsheets, credit card bills, income tax returns, loans statements and more. Avoid Altercations with Your Ex Be aware that any form of argument or altercation could be used against you in court. This not only includes in-person arguments, but text messages, emails, and social media messaging. It’s essential you appear in the best possible light to a judge, so you must never talk negatively about your ex, especially to your kids. It might be hard not to argue with your ex or say negative things about them to your loved ones, but the things you say to someone you thought you could trust could be played in court. Always think before you speak or act so that you can secure the best settlement. Remove Emotion from the Divorce Process As difficult as it might be, you must attempt to remove emotion from the divorce proceedings. Of course, the process is painful, but your future will depend on you making logical, rational decisions from start to finish. Any poor decisions you make can negatively impact both yours and your family’s future, so you must put your feelings to one side. Always listen to your head and not your heart. You deserve happiness and to your enjoy life.

Staying one step ahead of style trends is no easy feat. Not only do you have to pinpoint emerging fashions before they arrive, but you also need to ensure they complement your personal style to stay true to yourself. If you want to have a raft of fashion ideas before they hit retail stores, find out how to stay one step ahead of style trends in 2018. Follow Fashion Weeks Do you want to pretend you’re more clued up when it comes to fashion than you are? Maybe you simply want to don the best looks before you become one of many wear a clothing style. Well, all you need to do is follow the biggest annual fashion weeks – or even try to grab some tickets if you can. Unsurprisingly, designers exhibit their collections on the catwalk one year before the looks arrive in stores. It, therefore, provides editors and store buyers with a sneak peak of the most fashionable designs to expect within the next 12 months. Attend Fashion Shows If you can’t make it to New York Fashion Week, don’t despair, as there are plenty of fashion trade shows and conferences held throughout the year, which can help you discover the finest designs and brands, so your look will stand out from the crowd. Take plenty of notes and pictures during the fashion shows for inspiration, too! Head to Ticket Sales to buy tickets to the latest fashion trade shows near you. Don’t Skip Trend Analysis Sessions Many fashion trade shows also feature trend analysis sessions and workshops, which every fashionista should attend. Fashion trend forecasting companies often provide research to brands across the world, so it’s a great way to learn more about the fashion industry and the latest looks. So, not only will you know the best designs to buy over the next few months, but you will gain a greater understanding of the fashion industry, which can help you develop your passion. Ordinarily, these services are only available to brands and designers for thousands of pounds. Yet, these companies often provide the workshop for free or a small fee for to industry insiders at the trade shows, so try to pull some strings to secure entry into a session. Sign Up to Mailing Lists If you’re unable to attend a fashion trade forecasting session, you might be happy to learn these forward-thinking companies provide forecasting information and tips in their email newsletters. So, sign up to their mailing lists to gain an insight into up-and-coming trends that could transform your personal style. Find Inspiration Online Of course, you would be foolish not to take advantage of the endless array of fashion resources online, which will not cost you a penny to access. Start off your style search by visiting the leading fashion magazines online, such as Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar. You should also follow fashion bloggers across social media for style inspiration, as many are also paid to promote products by leading brands – so you could discover looks before they hit a retail store. Pinterest is also an excellent fashion source, as it offers great tips for trend forecasting – and you can even create boards on the social media platform to keep your eye on the emerging trends.

Our fast-paced world full of technological innovation and non-stop social media interaction can sometimes seem a cold and impersonal place, leaving many longing for a simpler, more relaxing and, above all, more spiritual time. It's little surprise then that increasing numbers of people in countries across the globe are adopting a new age lifestyle. Of course, 'new age' is a very broad term, but at its heart, it encompasses a return to earlier beliefs, a determination to live a more environmentally friendly life, and the importance of meditation and understanding yourself and your role in wider society. If you have friends who meet this description, then they're sure to love these thoughtful new age gifts.

Sharing The Power Of Crystals

Crystals are natural mineral deposits that can be incredibly beautiful, but if used the right way, they can also bring powerful changes into your life, and with this in mind, people with a new age spirituality or an open mind will always welcome a gift of crystals. Humans have recognized the power of crystals for thousands of years, but only now do we once again understand this ancient knowledge. Different crystals have different powers, so while transparent quartz has the ability to purify the space it stands in, creating positive and calming energy, a pink quartz is associated with love and so makes an ideal addition to a bedroom. Take time to understand the meaning of crystals and stones, as shown on the 10awesome website, and you'll be able to present a perfect and personalized gift.

Taking Control Of Your Dreams

Whilst we have control of our everyday waking lives, to some extent at least, for most of us, dreams are simply random things that come to us at night. It doesn't have to be like this, as with a little training we can learn to control our dreams and interact with them in any way we choose. This is called lucid dreaming and can be achieved by simply believing you can do it and then following a series of instructions before retiring to bed. Having a lucid dream can be the most incredible experience because things that are impossible suddenly become possible. Buying an instruction book on lucid dreaming can help your friend enter an incredible new world, and a beautiful journal to record dreams in, an essential step in the process, is a great additional present.

Thoughtful Presents That Help The World

One of the key new age beliefs is that we must do all we can to protect the environment we live in, and so if your friends have adopted a greener lifestyle, there are plenty of presents that they'd particularly appreciate. Organic toiletries will always be welcome, of course, but an alternative gift would be to pay for a good cause in their name. It's possible to adopt a goat or a village well. These gifts are actually given to communities in the developing world, but your friend will receive details of their gift and the ways that it will help people live better and healthier lives. You don't have to have wholeheartedly embraced the new age lifestyle to love these three gifts. Anyone would love organic soaps and toiletries, a beautiful journal, or eye-catching crystals, but if you have friends who have embraced their spiritual side, then these could be the most welcome present of them all, without costing the earth.

Whether you are out at a formal event or are simply logging some time at the gym, knowing that you look cute can give you a boost in mood and self-confidence. Fortunately, you don’t need a round the clock team of personal shoppers and expensive apparel to look amazing. Here are five easy to look cute on a budget:

1. Add a Bag or Wallet: Having a cute purse or wallet on the go can instantly spruce up your style. While wallets and purses can be expensive at department stores, you can find great deals if you consider wholesale women’s wallets and purses. Remember that it is the look and not the brand that matters.
2. Rock Your Sun Protection: Sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory because they protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. You can buy a variety of quality wholesale fashion sunglasses to match any outfit and protect your eyes no matter where your day takes you.
3. Mind Your Nails: Nothing spoils a ‘together’ look like unkempt nails- especially ones with chipped nail polish. If you are not a fan of nail care, simply make sure to trim and file your nails on a regular basis. If you like nail polish, there are plenty of low-cost options that will help you get a stylish look.
4. Match and Coordinate: Most of the time, you want your outfit, jewelry, and accessories to match each other. Unless you are deliberately going for the ‘funky’ look, try not to have more than one piece that really stands out.
5. Accessorize with Meaning: Whether an accessory is sentimental or represents something you love, having something that displays your personality can always add to your look. For instance, if you have a necklace from your mom that you rarely take off, you can work that into almost any outfit. If you are able to have a jewelry piece that is versatile and works with all outfits you will save money and not have to buy as many accessories!

Looking good does take effort, but you will also feel better and attract new opportunities.

Every year, as the time for those much-needed holidays from work approach, the average person finds a reason not to get away. There is too much to do at home and with your busy schedule, you’ve not gotten to it. You can’t afford the expense because you can stay at home just as easily. Who will mind the dogs while you’re away? And, the list goes on. Unfortunately, none of those make much sense from a medical science standpoint because there are several scientific reasons why you should get away on holiday. By the way, choosing the right accommodations means the furry ones can come along with you!

Stepping Back from Stress

Several studies mentioned on Inc.com substantiate not only the need to take a break but, taking it a step further, why you should get away on that holiday. Stress is a leading cause of many illnesses, among which are cancer and cardiovascular disease. The article cited a group of 900 Canadian lawyers and a study out of Vienna that proved without a doubt, getting away, really getting away, reduced stress whilst away and for many weeks after returning home. The reasoning behind getting away for stress reduction is that you will be removed from anything that reminds you that you still have much to do. You won’t be tempted to go into the office for a day and you aren’t just a few minutes away from the office if they need you for an important client. No, the garden can wait until you get back and if you are truly needed, there’s this new technology called a mobile phone. (Want a tip? Leave the phone at home!)

Back to Better Sleeping Habits

Here is what many doctors and scientists believe is the best benefit of taking a holiday away from home. When you are at home, the phone rings incessantly, the neighbours drop in, the lawn needs mowing, the gutters need cleaning and you are so caught up in what needs to be done that you simply aren’t getting the rest you require. After all, the holiday is only so long, isn’t it? You’ve neglected all those things because work and life have kept you in overdrive, and your sleep patterns are broken. While it is a myth that everyone needs at least eight hours sleep, science does say that most people require a minimum of 5-6 hours of deep sleep to be truly rested enough to promote good health. Pamper yourself with a personalised service, such as what you’d receive at luxury hotels like Tewkesbury Park and even the dogs will get pampered as well. You’ve not seen doggie amenities until you’ve taken a holiday at Tewkesbury Park. From clearing your head to improve focus and concentration to resting up from a difficult year, there are so many reasons why you not only deserve to get away on holiday, but you need to get away. Science empirically states that the human body needs rest. The human body needs relief from stress and, believe it or not, the human body needs a bit of fun and entertainment. This year, get away on holiday. Those long-neglected tasks will be there when you get home. What do you think weekends are for?

If you've chosen to follow a paleo diet, in order to improve your health and to get into the best shape of your life, simply continue reading to discover 7 helpful tips which will help you keep to your new diet plan. How to Stick to a Paleo Diet: 7 Tips to Remember

1. Opt for lean healthy meats over fatty meats

While your typical paleo diet will feature plenty of meat, it pays to be choosy about the types of meat which you consume. As an example try to consume lean, healthy meats such as salmon and chicken breast, instead of steak or bacon.

2. Make sure that your diet boasts plenty of healthy fats

Examples of healthy fats include avocado, nuts, and seeds. As an example, you may want to start your day off by eating an avocado for breakfast. Alternatively, if you often feel peckish between meals, you may want to consider pre-packing little zip log bags full of nuts and seeds, which you can keep in your purse, car or office drawer.

3. Follow a wide variety of Paleo focused blogs

If you can't stand the thought of eating the same meals over and over again like you did when you were trying to stay healthy in college on a budget, it's well worth following a wide variety of paleo focused blogs. As a way of finding new, mouth-watering paleo recipes, which you'll be able to incorporate into your roster of go to, paleo friendly recipes.

4. Use herbs and spices to add flavor to your meals

You may be unaware that all herbs and spices are permitted as part of a paleo diet. So it's well with using tarragon to add flavor to your salmon dishes and to use cajun pepper or chili to add flavor to your steamed vegetables.

5. Consider preparing paleo friendly meals in advance

One way to ensure that you stick to a paleo diet is to spend one evening each weekend preparing and freezing individual meals, which you can then defrost for dinner, during your working week. As you'll be far less likely to cheat on your diet and order take out if you have prepared meals that you'll be able to heat up within a few minutes.Just make sure to invest in a large freezer, which you can keep in your home's garage.

6. Create your own vegetable garden, so that you always have fresh produce on hand

As paleo diets generally contain a large proportion of vegetables, you may want to consider creating your own vegetable garden. Which is a far more cost-effective option than purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables from your local grocery store each week. It is also beneficial to invest in a vegetable spiralizer as they are a great kitchen tool for making healthy meals quickly and easily!

7. Search for local cafes and restaurants which offer paleo friendly meal options

It's well worth using Google to find paleo-friendly eateries in your area so that you'll still be able to socialize with your friends over a delicious, paleo friendly meals. If you're serious about keeping to a healthy, paleo diet, it's definitely worth following each of the 7 fuss-free paleo tips listed above, in order to achieve all of your health-related goals.

It’s okay to be busy, but running around ragged to the point of exhaustion isn’t healthy. You need to find a balance where you can live your life and feel happy and healthy. It’s important to recognize the signs that start to appear when you’re overdoing it. Watch for these red flags and take a step back when you notice their presence in your life. No one else can do it for you. You have to be the one who readjusts and creates a more manageable schedule for yourself. Keep in mind that taking breaks and resting is healthy and not a weakness. You’re in Pain One sign you’re working too hard is that you’re in physical pain. For example, constant headaches or back pain. There could be a bigger issue going on, and the only way to know is to research it yourself on a site like echiropractor.org. Many people are so busy and involved in their life that they ignore these kinds of warning signs and push them off, hence creating even worse problems. Never ignore pain you’re feeling. Do your homework to discover what may be causing the pain and then get it checked out. Not Sleeping Well Sleep is critical to your wellbeing and functioning. Your daily activities and work will suffer if you’re not getting a proper amount of shuteye. Make sure your room is conducive to getting a good night’s sleep. Also, experts recommend you going to bed and waking up around the same time each day. You’ll sleep better if you leave work at a decent hour, eat well and are unplugging from your devices well before bedtime. Always Crabby & Quick to Snap Notice how your mood has been and if it’s hurting your relationships. Being crabby and snapping at others isn’t healthy and will only damage the connections you have with people. Take care of yourself, so you’re in the right mindset to communicate and state your feelings without an attitude. Listen to others when they tell you “you’re being unruly.” These are signs that it’s time to take a break and rest. You need to be in a calm state and reduce your stress if you’re going to be healthy and happy. Your Self-Care is Non-Existent A major sign that it’s time to take a break is if you’re coming last in your life. Self-care activities are important for maintaining your wellbeing and improving your mood. Create work-life balance and say no more often, so you have more time for you. Use your weekends wisely to exercise, catch up on sleep and do activities you love. Ignoring your needs is going to put you on the fast track to poor physical, emotional and mental health. Conclusion Take control of your life and put yourself first if you want to experience improved quality of life. You won’t regret this adjustment because you’ll be feeling great. Know the warning signs and take action right away to prevent additional issues from popping up.

Birthdays are a time for celebration, whether the birthday boy or girl is young or old. Along with a celebration often comes a party, giving friends and loved ones a chance to take part in the celebrations. If you happen to be gearing up to host an unexpected birthday party at your home as a gift for that special someone, then you’ve probably got a to-do list that seems to be growing by the minute. Things such as décor, food, drinks, party games, cake, presents, and more are likely swirling around in your head, but what about your house? Getting your house party-ready includes a lot more than just hanging some decorations. To help keep you organized and on track, here are five tips that will help you ensure the house is ready for the big bash.

Giving the Carpets More than a Once-Over

If your carpet is looking a little tired and less than pristine, a once-over with the vacuum may not be enough to give it that fresh look. With so many guests coming for the party, it would be nice to have it looking as clean as possible, which is why you may want to look into professional carpet cleaning. Professionals cleaning services such as Athcleaningservices.co.uk, can bring a carpet back to looking like new making its color brilliant once again. Then again, you may want to reserve the professional cleaning services for after the party, to ensure things are cleaned up really well and any messes are dealt with.

Rearrange Furniture to Make Better Use of the Space

Another tip is to take a look at how your furniture is currently arranged, and consider re-arranging it for the party. This can help to create extra space, allow flow through the room and into other rooms, and give you the ability to set up conversation areas.

Set Up a Buffet Table

If you plan on serving food and drinks at the party, a common technique is to set up a buffet table. You can use your everyday dining or kitchen table for this. Place it in an area that allows flow all around the table, so that traffic doesn’t get backed up, and as long as the space allows you can also place cutlery, dishes, and napkins on the table so everything is found in one spot.

Declutter the Party Rooms and Entrance to Your Home

Because you are expecting so many extra bodies in your home, you want to create as much space as possible. Decluttering is an excellent tip that will help create that added sense of space. Don't forget to declutter your front entrance and coat cupboard as well, so you've got room to hang your guest's coats.

Give the Bathrooms a Refresh

Cleaning the bathrooms is another chore that is likely on your list, but why not go that extra mile and refresh it with clean white lines, lovely smelling hand soap, and even a scented candle (for safety you can skip the candle if you're hosting a child's birthday).

The Perfect Place for a Party

These tips will help you to organize what needs to be done in order to host a birthday party in your home and help you to create that perfect party space.

Our bodies are more complex and strange than we imagine them to be and that’s exactly why even physicians with decades of experience cannot always predict the behavior of the human body correctly. On that note, here are five strange but effective health tips that actually work.

Don’t Brush After You Eat

This one basically goes against anything and everything that we had been told ever since we were kids, but it’s true nevertheless. If you just ate or drank something that could potentially harm your teeth due to its acidic nature, hold off on the brushing for at least an hour. Acidic foods such as tomatoes, citric fruits, sodas, soft drinks, etc., make the enamel on your teeth more vulnerable and if you brush immediately after, it’s like scrubbing on wet sandstone!

Sleep Deprivation Can Help with Depression

No, it’s not a joke and, yes, sleep deprivation has been proven to work on depressed individuals better than even antidepressants at times. However, before you start skipping your night’s sleep to cure that bad mood, there’s a bit of a catch here; you will only feel better through sleep deprivation if you are already suffering from severe symptoms of clinical depression. On the other hand, if you are naturally sad for a valid reason or just had a bad day at the office, skipping the night’s sleep will likely worsen your mood.

Eating More to Lose Weight

The universal layman’s trusty rule to losing weight is to eat less or even starve one’s body to the point of being sick. Needless to say, that’s bad for health and any weight you lose in the process will be gained back by your body with some additional pounds in tow, within the next few months. On the other hand, if you can replace the carb-rich donuts and pretzels with copious amounts of proteins and healthy fats, you will actually lose fat, won’t feel hungry, and be consuming fewer calories than before, all at the same time.

Hot Drinks Cool You Faster than Cold Ones

Unknown to many, a cup of hot, steaming, sweet, black tea is better at cooling the body down and resupplying it with some glucose during those hot summer months than a cold can of soda or beer. Why you ask? Well, hot drinks make you sweat and sweating is your body’s fastest way of cooling off.

Exercising When You are Tired Rejuvenates You

This could sound like something that a football coach would say to his tired players, but it still happens to be true. If you take out just 15-minutes to half-an-hour for an exercise session after a grueling day at work, you will feel better both physically and psychologically. Exercise maximizes your oxygen usage and that is the main reason why this counterintuitive technique works so well. Feel free to try every one of the five tips mentioned here because they really do work, and if you would like to read some more articles like this one, head over to healthrow.net for many more health tips and latest news related to fitness, medical care, and healthy living. Got any more great tips on how to live a healthy and fulfilling life that makes you happy? Let us know!

It’s always hard to find exactly the right birthday gift for someone who is special to you, unless of course they drop a hint or two you just can’t miss. However, instead of the usual flowers or jewellery for ladies or techie gadgets for the guys, why not think about getting them something they’d never expect in a million years. The best part of all is seeing the smile on their face when they open your gift. Are you looking for suggestions? Here’s a few.

A Relaxing and Well-Deserved Body Massage

So many people today are so busy, especially when it comes to balancing work and life, that they don’t take the time to care for themselves. Most of us are a bundle of nerves 99.9 percent of the time. Why not visit the heavenandearthmassage.co.uk website to see what types of massage therapy they employ? Even men will appreciate the fact that all oils used in the massage are fragrance-free and if your man works in any industry that involves heavy lifting, this may be just what the doctor ordered! Wrap the gift certificate in a smaller box inside another and another so he will never expect what the bottom box contains. How much fun is that?

A Day Adventure

Again, this might require a gift certificate or tickets, but you might need to buy something appropriate to wear. For example, if you buy a day cruise, you might want to buy your girl a sundress or wide-brimmed hat. You could put the tickets in with the item you wrap and that would be the actual birthday gift. When giving a man a day adventure, the same thing applies. Perhaps your man always wanted to try his hand (feet and body?) at rock climbing. A piece of safety gear would do nicely as the ‘gift’ in which you put the ticket or gift certificate.

Novelty Gifts for a Great Laugh

What do you buy for the person who has everything – and we mean literally everything? Novelty gag gifts are ideal. Some suggestions include:

• Zombie Survival Manual
• Potty Piano Rug
• Caution Toxic Fumes Cone for the Loo
• Silly books Like “How to Tell if Your Cat Is Plotting to Kill You”

Any crazy gag gift is perfect. What about anti-fart pills or edible pyjamas. What fun you can have with crazy gifts they’d never expect, especially if you are usually not the joking type. The best part about giving unusual birthday gifts is that you BFF or loved one would never suspect what’s inside the wrapping. It’s fun to see the expression on their faces when they realise they have been punked. Think about what your special friend loves and play on that for a bit. If they’re adventurous, give them a challenging new experience. If they are fun-loving, a gag gift is absolutely perfect. You know that special someone probably better than you know yourself. So, if you are looking for something totally unexpected and out of the ordinary, get as extreme as you can get. It’s guaranteed that you’ll have as much fun as they will and that is a gift that will be remembered always.

Whenever you are buying a gift, it is important that you think carefully about the interests of your recipient. You need to make sure that whatever you purchase, it is sure to increase your loved one’s levels of happiness and fit in with their lifestyle. For instance, if you are buying for a fitness fanatic, you will need to source a gift that reflects this area of their life. Instead of purchasing the first sport-related item you find, it is important that you do your research and explore all of your options. Below are three gift ideas for you to consider. Purchase specialist equipment Firstly, you should be on the lookout for specialist equipment that your loved one doesn’t already own. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to introduce them to something new and exciting. Just make sure that you do plenty of research before making a purchase. If you are dealing with a true fitness fanatic, it is likely that they will know their stuff. That is why you need to ensure you understand exactly how your chosen piece of equipment works. You also need to establish whether or not it is the best model available and if it is well suited to the recipient of your gift. Don’t worry, finding this information is much easier than you’d think. At the click of a button, you can read excellent graded reviews that will help you to make your final decision. Support their lifestyle Another idea is to purchase a gift that supports your loved one’s healthy lifestyle. If you are looking to spend a serious amount of money, why not consider paying for a gym membership? Alternatively, you could look out for a class that would appeal to your special someone, and pay their entry fee. Ideally, you need to find an option that allows you to pay for a limited amount of time. For instance, a year’s membership or six months of classes. This will save you from getting into the awkward position of suddenly having to withdraw your funding. You also need to think carefully about whether the recipient of your gift is likely to make the most of this opportunity. If you are dealing with someone reliable and determined, a fixed contract makes sense. However, if you are dealing with someone a little less predictable, you should look into short-term alternatives such as paying for a health retreat. Regardless, if the person you are buying for is a fitness fanatic this gift will bring them a lot of happiness towards fulfilling their life and will help them save money. Give them a break Finally, you could select a gift that allows your fitness fanatic to step away from their intense routine. Perhaps you could treat them to a spa day. You could even add a plus one to this experience and use this as an opportunity to bond. Alternatively, if you are looking for something that can be wrapped up and presented on the big day, you could purchase a foot spa, a massage mat, or some comfortable loungewear. If your loved one is always on their feet, they will appreciate the chance just to sit back and relax.

Attending college is financially demanding, but money is not the only thing that it can take a toll on. Time is the other most valuable commodity that you will run short of while trying to manage your studies, your new social life, and a part-time job, all at the same time. What this means is that everything can overwhelm you and make you feel like you don’t have the time or the opportunity to stay fit anymore. As it turns out, that’s not necessarily the situation in college, even when it might seem to be so. On that note, here are four ways to make sure that you remain healthy, even when things start to get a little crazy in college.

Take Up a Sport

Staying fit doesn’t necessarily have to be about going to the gym because you can simply take up a sport to play with your classmates or dormmates. This would act as both a way to socialize and will help you to get some much-needed exercise at the same time. On the other hand, if you happen to be a natural athlete or a sportsman, to begin with, you should definitely visit athletes-usa.com, because one of their multiple sports scholarship programs could cut your tuition fees down to a fraction and may very well set you towards a glorious athletic career.

Walk to Your Classes

It is very likely that most students either use a bike, some form of public transport or maybe even drive their way to class, but if you can walk the distance, do so on every chance that you get. Even a regular walk of 15 – 20 minutes to and from your classes can make a huge difference. Not to mention, it will probably save you quite a bit of money too!

Work Out in Your Room

You would be surprised at how well someone can stay in shape without even leaving one’s room. Create a workout schedule around exercises such as burpees, pushups, pull-ups, free squats, lunges, calf raises and other bodyweight exercises. Now, slowly build up a high-intensity training schedule with these exercises and dedicate just 30-minutes to your workouts five days a week to see some pretty amazing results.

Learn to Cook

You don't need to be a chef to make healthy meals. However, almost all the fittest people on the planet know the basics of cooking and if you want to stay fit and healthy, we suggest that you take the time out to learn at least a few simple and healthy recipes as well. This will make sure that you have control over what you put inside your body and will definitely save you some money while you are at it. College days are not going to last forever, so it would be foolish to opt out of everything fun just for the sake of staying in shape. You are still young and your body will be able to recover from the occasional wild nights and 18-hour work days without any long-term consequences, just as long as you always get back on track to staying healthy and fit soon after.