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5 Self-Care Tips for a More Productive Week

Did you know that making time for soothing self-care comes with the added benefit of making you even more productive at home or work?

When’s the last time you did a little something just for you? You probably already know that spending even just one hour without any distractions, crying kids, barking dogs and email notifications is essential for maintaining your sanity. But juggling your own well-being while still maintaining a productive work schedule can get tricky. Between soccer practice, Zoom calls, errands, and whatever else you have on your plate, you might feel like you just don’t have enough hours in the day to take a much-needed break.

So whether you’re just focusing on the basics or are already a master of Zen, we’ve rounded up five self-care measures for a more productive week.

5 Self-Care Tips for a More Productive Week — *This is a guest post and all opinions are those of the author. This post may also contain affiliate and/or paid links. Rest assured that we only work with companies and individuals that we trust. While some of those companies and individuals may work in the medical field, this post is not intended to be a substitution for medical advice. Always speak to your doctor if you have concerns about your mental or physical health.

Set Your Phone Down

You might think always being available to respond to every call, text, or email is the secret to becoming a productivity powerhouse. But the truth is, we can all benefit from a little focus-time throughout the day. Putting down your phone and turning on airplane mode is a great way to disconnect yourself from outside influence and step away to really focus on the task at hand. You don’t need to respond to your best friend’s brunch invite or your boss’s budget question right away. Instead, schedule some screen-free time to really get to work and knock some things off your to-do list.

Incorporate Exercise Into Your Day

At its root, self-care is about making sure that your body has the basic elements it needs to function at its best. Consider mindful movement as a way to unplug from your busy day and take a much-needed break when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Schedule a yoga class or take a short walk outdoors to clear your head and refocus before getting back to your next task. If you find that spending an hour or two at the gym doesn’t fit into your schedule, there’s plenty of other ways to make sure you keep your body moving throughout the day. Consider buying a standing desk to upgrade your WFH setup and get your blood flowing throughout the day.

Do a Skincare Routine

When you think of self-care, you might already think of fancy face masks and soothing bubble baths. But don’t discount these practices just because they’re cliché! Self-care is all about bringing your attention to the present and listening to your body. When you are applying your silky-smooth creams and serums, your attention is drawn to the feeling on your skin and the calming scent—not your to-do list. By taking a little time away and focusing on what you want to do, rather than what you have to do, you’re working on asserting your boundaries and making sure your mental energy levels are at their highest.

Take More Breaks

Spending less time at work or on essential tasks may seem counterproductive to getting things done, but self-care isn’t about creating more time to be productive. Instead, it’s all about making sure you’re at your best to be more productive. Don’t be afraid to go on your lunch break or take a fifteen minute trip to the coffee machine to get away from your workspace or to-do list. These short blocks of relaxation can help your body and brain recharge and get you back in the focus mindset. Taking the proper time for you will let you glide through your day with less effort, meaning you’ll be able to work smarter, not harder.

Surround Yourself with Nature

If you can’t or don’t want to go outside, surrounding yourself with some calming greenery can help keep you Zen, too. Interacting with plants or even just looking at them can have an extremely calming and soothing effect. Consider placing a little green friend in your office or decorating your WFH desk with a sturdy indoor plant. If you’re a stay at home mom, there’s still plenty of ways to incorporate greenery in your home. Hang soothing eucalyptus in your shower or place fresh blooms in a vase somewhere that’s just for you and far away from your kids, pets, and stressors.

How to Decorate with Natural Elements — .

Why Self Care Matters

Most of us live with a ‘do’ mindset. Our sense of self-esteem and self-worth is often defined by what we’re able to do and accomplish. We may even live with the idea that slowing down or taking a second to breath is a sign of weakness or a failure to make the most of our day. While it can take time to unlearn these limiting beliefs, it’s important to remember that self-care is often the key to succeeding and living a happy, productive life and making sure you’re recharged enough to be the best mom, friend, or coworker you can be.

Author Bio

Tess DiNapoli is an artist, freelance writer, and content strategist. She has a passion for yoga and often writes about health and wellness, but also enjoys covering the fashion industry and world of fitness. Follow her on Instagram @TessLynne.

7 Health Benefits Of Owning A Dog

Most people know that owning a dog brings playfulness and fun to a household — but did you know it also offers health benefits? Research shows that people who own dogs reap several major perks for their health — including a reduced risk for certain illnesses and diseases, and even potentially an increased length of life. There’s a lot more to getting a puppy than you may have known. Interested in learning more? Here’s a look at some of the ways owning a dog is good for you.

Companionship

For many people, mental health can be as much of a battle as physical health. That’s why it’s worth mentioning that owning a dog is a powerful way to fight loneliness. When you have a dog to take care of, you’re more likely to get out and among other people, as well as to enjoy the time you have with just your pet. Dogs are great for cuddling, having someone to accompany you through your days and, all around, having fun with someone else.

Mindfulness

For many people, another key piece in the mental health puzzle is learning to slow down and be mindful — an area where dogs can help. By making time to play with your dog or go for a walk, being present in the experience, you can lower stress and improve overall health.

An active lifestyle

While sedentary lifestyles are increasingly the norm in modern society, here’s one easy way to fight the urge to loaf: Get a dog. Owning a pup can ensure you get at least some measure of physical activity in your life. Studies have shown dog owners are much more likely to get regular exercise than peers without pups. When you have a dog to walk, you can’t help getting out and moving — and that means boosting your heart rate, burning calories and enjoying the endorphins that come with exercise.

Improved heart health

Given that dogs get you physically active, it’s no surprise to say they’re good for cardiovascular health. Studies have shown that owning a dog goes so far as to decrease your risk for heart attack and heart disease. More than that, if you’re someone with a history of heart issues and you experience a cardiac event at home, owning a dog makes you more likely to survive it.

Lowered cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure

While it’s not known exactly why this is the case, people who have dogs tend to have lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides — both metrics that point to overall better health. Perhaps due to the calming effect pet ownership has on the body, dog owners typically have lower blood pressure, too.

Stress relief

If you’re looking for ways to reduce stress and relax more, owning a dog is one of the best and most enjoyable solutions. Caring for a dog has been shown to lower anxiety, boost the happy chemicals in the brain and reduce stress levels. Dog owners tend to be less depressed and more satisfied with life, perhaps because dogs offer a strong sense of purpose and routine.

Strengthened immune system

When you live with a dog, you’re constantly exposed to the bacteria your dog possesses, which helps to diversify your microbiome, as well as pet fur and dandruff. This can boost your body’s defenses against illness. In fact, some studies have shown benefits that may seem counterintuitive: Having a dog can reduce the risk of allergies and/or asthma in kids.

As the list above demonstrates, it turns out there are many good reasons for why dogs have the reputation for being man’s best friend. Canine creatures enrich the lives of their owners, while also boosting all kinds of health benefits. They can make you happier, healthier and more satisfied with life. They’re faithful companions and excellent motivators to get out and get moving.

If you’ve been thinking about adding a playful, loyal, lovable pup to your household, think of all you have to gain! While it is a big responsibility, the health benefits of owning a dog is a choice that benefits your mental, physical, and overall health and well-being.

Author Bio

Alec Hutchins is Chief Marketing Officer of Recherche Kennels – Goldens, a professional breeding and training facility. Recherche Kennels has over 10 years of experience breeding with top parent bloodlines and training puppies to be the perfect family pet.

Reaping The Benefits Of A Peaceful Backyard Oasis

Does the stress of the day have you longing for an outdoor escape? Instead of obsessing over your next vacation, consider unwinding in the peace and security of your own backyard oasis. Having a serene open-air space mere steps away can provide sunshine and fresh air for the whole family.

Studies have shown people who spend time in nature are less likely to suffer from depression or anxiety. Even if you happen to be short on room, however, it’s more than possible to transform a deck, patio or courtyard into a beautiful place of refuge. Here are some words of advice to create a stress-reducing garden getaway.

Create a Backyard Oasis by Decluttering

The first recommendation is to declutter. While starting with a totally blank canvas isn’t necessary, bringing a backyard oasis to life takes a tidy work area and some planning. Begin by pruning any overgrown trees and hedges, donating unused play equipment, and clearing away any waste.

Plan out Your Ideal Space

Once the space feels bare, take stock of its natural elements, and formulate a plan for anything you want changed. Do you want a water feature, a swimming pool or an outdoor dining area, or do you want to emphasize being one with nature? Whatever your vision, be sure to keep relaxation first and foremost.

When it comes to furniture, you’ll want to opt for deep seating, lounge chairs and other patio furnishings that encourage everyone to stretch out and relax. Choose textured fixtures designed to withstand the elements and in the colors you love. Another handy tip is to invest in deck furniture that can double as storage, such as an ottoman or bench. This way, pads and pillows can stay clean longer.

Personalize your Backyard Oasis

How else can the space be made your own? Simply decorate it with pieces that speak to you. Whether you prefer unique planters and bird baths or colorful artwork and décor, the space ought to reflect your personality while coinciding with the beauty of nature. Hanging string lights and other outdoor lighting is another great way to set the mood. However, be careful not to overdo it on the décor, as it could upset the flow and make the yard look smaller.

Aside from adding a water feature or sculpture as the focal point, try planting favorite flowers, natural foliage and other plant life. Greenery can help boost moods and doesn’t need to be big to make a major impression. For instance, container gardens are a simple option for small spaces, and they are inexpensive and easy to maintain.

Get Help From a Pro

You can also invest in landscaping. Hiring a professional service to survey property lines, design your backyard oasis and install a perimeter could produce a result far exceeding your expectations. From landscaped hedges, shrubbery or privacy fencing, the possibilities of transforming your outdoor living area are limitless.

For more ways to create the backyard oasis of your dreams, please see the following infographic.

Author Bio:

Danny Rodic is a co-owner of Apex Land Surveying and Mapping LLC. Rodic has over 28 years of experience in the land surveying industry, providing a broad range of land surveying services to clients. Rodic is a licensed professional land surveyor in Colorado and Wisconsin.

5 Calming Activities You Can Do With Your Kids

Small children are full of energy, and though it’s fun, it’s also exhausting. Sometimes you want to relax while engaging with your kids. If you’re interested, check out these five calming activities you can do with your kids.

Reading Corner

Choosing a book and reading with your child is relaxing and educational. Even if your child can’t read yet, you can introduce them to words, phrases, and books in general. Set time aside to read aloud to your kid.
If your child can read, you can block out 20 minutes of the day for “reading corner” time, as you both silently read different books at the same time. After 20 minutes, you all can come back and discuss the book your child read.

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is an ultra-calming activity that allows kids to relax while smelling some lovely scents. Place a few drops of essential oil in a diffuser and sit with your child as you two work on deep breathing exercises or yoga. If you’re new to aromatherapy and essential oils, you can follow these tips for buying and using essential oils.

Sensory Station

For young kids, sensory stations are a great way to play with different things while relaxing. The best part is that you can create the stations and play with your kids! For instance, you can fill a bin with shredded paper, uncooked rice, different types of fabric, or play dough to give your kid something to touch. As they explore different textures, you can play right beside them.

Drawing or Painting

Drawing and painting are two “never-fail” activities that kids of all ages can do! Grab some paper, crayons, paint, or colored pencils and work on a masterpiece. To elevate the experience, you can give your kid challenges, such as “draw our house” or “paint a picture of the sky,” to help them become more observant. Art is also a great form of self care and helps them to express their thoughts and feelings more clearly.

Walking

Walking is a fantastic exercise and a calming activity. You and your child can take a walk around the neighborhood or stroll through a park and enjoy the outdoors. You can even play a game of “I spy” to enhance the experience. For instance, you can say, “I spy something tall and green,” and your kid will say, “A tree!”

Kids are little energy balls that seem like they’re always on “go-mode.” However, there are activities you can do that calm yet engage your children! Hopefully, these five calming activities you can do with your kids gave you great ideas.

Author Bio

Christina Duron is a writer living in the Chicagoland area. Her passion for writing and mental health help create thought provoking and engaging pieces and hopes to use them to empower mothers and women to embrace the beauty of motherhood.

How to Decorate with Natural Elements for a Touch of Serenity

Many people have had to switch to working from home during the ongoing health crisis, which in turn means that you need to adapt your living environment to be more productive. Then again, many have had to go back to the office, which can be another stressful transition. What do both of these scenarios have in common? The need to make your home a serene, healthful environment that inspires emotional and mental wellbeing, focus, and mindfulness. And one of the best ways to do this is to decorate with natural elements.

If you add the changing seasons into the mix, you have another reason to support this redesign effort of yours. To introduce more tranquility into your home, you can rely on Mother Nature for help and inspiration. When you decorate with natural elements, be it the right fabrics, textures, prints, or tones, it allows you to tap into your innermost sense of peace and to feel good under your own roof. Here’s where you can begin.

Start with warm and subtle colors

Defining the color palette for your walls and main furniture pieces is what sets the tone for your home. Although you might find certain vivid colors such as neon green alluring in your wardrobe, to foster a nature-inspired design, you should go for more delicate tones.

For instance, beige is a great wall color that gives you plenty of space for creativity with the colors for your furniture. Olive and emerald green both work well with beige, but you can also go with a range of pastels for your walls paired with darker, but warmer wooden tones for your focal furniture pieces.

Introduce greenery

Sometimes to achieve more, you need less. In this case, perhaps some stress in your home stems from the fact that your space is overcrowded with things, some with, some without purpose. To help destress yourself and your home, it’s wise to declutter your home, and instead of too many knickknacks, you can introduce more greenery to your space. Houseplants are a great way to decorate with natural elements.

Go with plants that are both healthy and require little maintenance to flourish, such as aloe vera, pothos, the spider plant, and the peace lily. And then make a macrame plant hanger for added texture and convenience. They’ll purify your indoor air, and their lovely green palette will have an immensely soothing effect on your mind.

This is Why Houseplants Have Become Some Popular During the Pandemic — .

Sustainable comfort with cozy additions

Accessories might not be crucial in terms of function all the time, but they certainly contribute to creating a serene atmosphere that helps you relax and unwind. To add some warmth to your floors (and improve insulation at the same time), you can add versatile rugs made of recycled materials such as cotton and leather.

Rugs are a simple, yet effective way to make your rooms cozier, all the while choosing natural over synthetic fabrics. Add throw pillows to your sofa and lounge chairs for extra coziness, and you’ll likely find your rooms significantly more calming than ever, evoking that perfect hygge feel. If you have a pet, go with rugs, pillows, and furniture covers that are durable, too.

Natural materials at every turn

Sustainability comes in many shapes and forms. If you’re already switching how you add accessories into your home by going with green fabrics and durability, you can also consider ditching plastic and other harmful materials in the design of your home. This approach gives you peace of mind and allows you to feel the many perks when you decorate using natural materials instead.

For example, hardwood floors, wooden kitchen elements, all the way to stone, brick, and wicker all make for wonderful additions to your home’s look and feel. Choose sofa coverings and pillowcases made of cotton, silk, or linen, for another dose of nature, too.

Make sure your space has plenty of light

As the old, majestic song goes, “let the sunshine in”. Nothing can beat the beauty and the soothing impact of natural daylight. For some homes, that means swapping those heavy winter curtains for something breezier and lighter in color, too. For others, that might mean going with a whole new set of floor-to-ceiling windows that will permeate your entire rooms with sunlight.

If anything can help you defeat seasonal depression, which can be quite difficult to cope with during cold winter months, that would be the lighting. However, when you know that you’re in for a few weeks of gloomy weather, you can invest in eye-friendly LED lamps and place them strategically around each room. That way you can create a different mood depending on whether you’re planning to binge-watch your favorite show, read a romantic novel, or get a bubble bath with scented candles next to you.

As you can see, sometimes the smallest changes to your décor can inspire the greatest feeling of comfort and serenity. Whether you’re in need of some quiet time after a long day at work, or you’re in the mood to read for hours with no interruptions, your entire home should represent your comfort zone. With these tips, transform your living environment as a way to take better care of yourself and your own needs.

Author Bio

Sophia Smith is a lifestyle blogger, graphic designer and DIY enthusiast. She is very passionate about eco-friendly and green topics, sustainable fashion, eco beauty, and conscious business. Sophia’s other hobbies center around her love for yoga, wellness rituals and living in balance with nature. She loves sharing meaningful content that inspires people and has covered topics ranging from organic beauty products and sustainability to self-care and decorating tips.

Sophia has contributed to a number of publications including Sivana Spirit, Urban Naturale, Carousel, Cause Artist, Awaken, Literally Darling, Whytt Magazine, and Read Unwritten. You can find out more about her writing by following her on Twitter (@sophia_bri).

Camping with a Baby Checklist

Do you want to take your family on a vacation in nature? Camping is a wonderful outdoor activity for the whole family, however, if you have a baby, you must take care of additional things to make him satisfied and safe.

In this article, I will tell you which camping essentials should you pack for the baby’s safety and well-being. If you will be camping with an infant for the first time or you are looking for some good tips you are welcome to check the camping with a baby checklist that will come in handy in the great outdoors.

Camping with a baby checklist

Some parents have no clue how to spend quality time with a baby camping. They are afraid that their child will get cold or will not feel good, but this is not the case that you have to worry about. You can go camping with your young one if you prepare thoroughly.

To survive your camping trip with a baby, here are the camping necessities that will make your kid safe and happy. The checklist includes camping gear and other items so you will have an easier time handling all the tasks around the camp.

Baby camping chair

Taking a baby camping chair is a must. Baby chair for camping is foldable and portable so you will have an easy time transporting it. This piece of equipment is great as your child will have his place to eat. At the same time, you will monitor him while picking woods for a campfire or cooking dinner.

When picking yours, make sure that you consider the weight that is allowed and the features that will make your camping easier (removable tray, machine washable fabric, adjustable height, etc.).

A playpen

You can’t leave your baby to crawl at the campsite so this is why it is important to have him at sight all the time. While you will have to do some tasks, put him in a playpen so he can play and distract himself. With some toys inside, he will have a great time playing and developing his mental and physical skills.

A child carrier

I am sure that you will go camping with a car so taking a child carrier won’t be an issue. The gear is a smart idea since you two will be able to walk on the trails and explore the beautiful surroundings without burdening the young one. He will be safe inside the carrier and see what is happening around him (watching landscape and animals, listening to animal sounds, etc.).

Toys

Toys are very important for a baby since he will develop cognitive, mental, physical, and motor skills. Make sure that he will play with different toys that will improve his abilities and learn. Leave him to play as he wants since he will learn from his own mistakes. I advise that you take toys that will boost his motoric and mental skills. Also, make sure they are safe for his age.

Bedding

Where will you put your baby to sleep inside a tent? I advise you to get a bigger tent as you will be able to organize your camping furniture easily. You can opt for cabin tents that have high walls such as a log cabin tent.

Buying a baby camping crib, or a bassinet is a clever idea since you will be able to put your infant inside and cover him with a blanket to keep him warm. You can also opt for a baby sleeping bag where he won’t need an extra blanket.

Baby clothes

Clothes are one of the most important stuff that you should consider for the young one. No matter when you will be camping, you should bring the clothes that will keep him comfortable. While he can’t tell you that he is feeling cold or too hot you will have to think for him.

Winter situation

I suggest that you pack warm merino wool and synthetic clothes. The wool is a great insulator and will keep him warm while synthetic clothes are great if there will be rain (synthetic material resists moisture). Opt for waterproof baby shoes so he will be able to walk in dry footwear. Don’t forget to cover his ears, head, and hands as these body parts are the most exposed to the elements.

Summer situation

Are you a fan of camping in the warm weather? Would you love to take your family to a beach? In this case, you should adjust clothes and other gear regarding the weather situation.

Beach camping isn’t the same as ordinary forest camping. If you will be camping on the beach then there is a big chance you will be exposed to the hot sun and sometimes wind. I recommend getting a beach tent that will protect the whole family from the harmful UV rays and wind.

Babies have sensitive skin so you will have to protect yours from the sun. Take short and long sleeve shirts and pants that are breathable (cotton, flax, etc.). If you will dress him in short sleeve shirt and pants make sure that you apply sun cream on the uncovered body parts.

Baby food

Mother’s milk is the best when it comes to providing a child with a bomb of nutrients but after 6 months of age, you can give him other food as well. Pack some porridge and well-mashed fruits and vegetables to keep his stomach fed. Remember, he has a small stomach so arrange small meals throughout the day. You can buy these products or make them at home, as you wish.

Other baby items

Here are the other baby items that you will be thankful for while camping. Consider taking a pad, a pillow, a changing station, (swim) dippers, stretchy pants, wet wipes, a diaper rash cream, a baby powder, pajamas, bottles, bowls and spoons, a water purifier, a changing mat, (zippered) bags, a bathtub, towels, hygiene products, a baby-safe bug spray, medications, and other items that you use regularly.

Let nature be his teacher!

I hope this checklist for baby camping opened your eyes to the basics that your kid will need to enjoy camping with you. In the end, I should say that you should let your child play in dirt, grass and explore new things since nature is the perfect teacher. This way you will make beautiful memories that he will remember and make him nature aware. I wish you an unforgettable camping trip!

Author Bio:

Tadej Kozar. I am the founder of Camping Valley. The site is an extension of my lifestyle and passion for outdoors. Everything that I learn, experience and find valuable is on the site for you. We live in a technological era but nature is reminding us more and more that we should go to the places where our heart and soul feel like home.

Wellness Benefits of Gardening and Planting Your Own Food

When we spend so much time taking care of others, it can be easy to feel super wrapped up in all of our responsibilities and lose sight of our own wellbeing. As a mother, it can be even more difficult to find the time to be away from home or even enjoy some fresh air outside. One great alternative is enjoying the wellness benefits of gardening.

How lovely would it be to not only have an outdoor edible landscape, but also your own little peaceful escape from reality? Edible landscaping is all about adding on foods that make sense for both your garden and your dinner table. It means finding the right fruits and veggies that go well with any plants you may already have, along with adding on to the beauty of your front or backyard.

Wellness benefits of gardening

Not only is gardening considered a very soothing and mindful activity, but it is actually a form of ecotherapy, which is actually also shown to be quite beneficial for mothers. Gardening can be done as a way to quiet the mind from everyday to-dos, while instilling a sense of personal commitment to a more holistic way of living.

On a more scientific note, it can also invite in more fresh oxygen into your home, your mind and body. Allowing you and your family to breathe easier with each passing day, especially whenever you find yourself caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

So taking the time to invest in your own edible landscape is like developing a relationship with your own little natural and intimate sanctuary. Because the art of gardening truly comes with patience and dedication, it’s always nice to have a well thought-out plan of what you want in order to get started.

Read below for some pro-tips on how to get started.

Tips for starting your own garden

Familiarize yourself with the landscape

What type of climate do you live in? Is it predominantly sunny, humid, or dry? Get to know what types of plants grow well in your region, as this is the first step to ensuring that your garden not only grows well, but is also more eco-friendly and sustainable.

Another important factor is studying what areas of your yard receive the most sunlight. Many outdoor plants need around six hours of sunlight per day, so prioritize those well-lit areas for setting up your leafy friends.

For shaded areas, consider the following as good options that require less attention from the sun:

- Cherry tomatoes
- Currants
- Artichokes
- Blueberries

Regardless of whether you have loads of sunlight or cloudy shady weather, the important thing is to be mindful of your selection so that it feels appropriately matched with its surrounding habitat.

Switch out any toxic pesticides or fertilizer for organic bug repellant and compost

Most pesticides are not meant to be ingested by people. So keep you and your veggies safe by incorporating more organic and toxic-free solutions into any safe guarding methods used in your garden.

Delineate a walkway for better organization and accessibility.

One easy idea you can implement is setting aside a walking distance between your plants so that you can easily move around while tending to them. Some examples of how you might do this are by adding bark or stones to separate the walking versus planting zone.

In the end, it’s all about what calls out to you, your personal taste, and your family’s home space. With so much going on all around us all the time, having a quiet space to appreciate nature, cultivate our own home grown produce, and being able to bring more mindful practices into your everyday life is well worth the effort.

Author Bio

Rebeca Camacho is a content creator who focuses on weaving in insightful perspectives into various forms of communication. Her deep enthusiasm for digital marketing and crafting perceptive narratives has led her to write about various subjects from entrepreneurship to mindfulness.