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● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

AD| Do you find it hard to find a pair of sunglasses that suit you? Are you looking for the best trending fashion eyewear of 2021? Look no further! 

Sunglasses are a super popular fashion accessory and also a great way to protect your eyes. Shopping for new sunglasses can be a very difficult, especially since there are so many different styles, shapes and sizes, it can be hard to find your perfect match. Just like fashion trends, this also applies to sunglasses and fashion eyewear. These trends can change year after year and if you want your look to be relevant, you need to keep up. 

Shown below are some of the newest and latest trends in fashion eyewear, and also a number of useful tips to consider on how to care for your eyes whilst looking good. As well as all of these tips, it's super important to make sure to get your eyes tested and check by professionals to ensure your eyes have the best protection possible, whatever eyewear you choose. Oodo Optical have a number of helpful articles online from eye examinations to buying spectacles and even remedies for dry eyes - all essential article reads for those wanting the best health for their eyes.

FASHION SUNGLASSES

Aviators are always a popular choice for sunglasses. Aviator-styled sunglasses have a very distinctive design - making them such a staple fashion accessory. These are a classic style of eyewear that are always on trend and look good all year round. This versatile style of eyewear is a great allrounder and a perfect addition to anyone's sunglasses collection, as they will work on most face shapes, as well as all genders and all ages.

For those who are looking for more of a stand-out, statement style of eyewear, cat eye sunglasses are a popular choice. These style of glasses come in a variety of different sizes, so they can easily fit to any face shapes. Cat eye sunglasses are quite a sassy and sophisticated style, so if you want to stand out from the crowd, this might be the style for you!

For those who really want to "go all out" with their choice of eyewear, opt for some colourful futuristic styled frames. Choosing bold frames will definitely take you out of your comfort zone, so you need all the style and confidence to rock these. This Instagram style of eyewear is seriously hot right now, and the perfect way to take your basic outfit from 0 to 100!

With the online world becoming increasingly more popular, blue-light style glasses are a must-have accessory for lovers of the internet. These style of glasses are simply designed to protect and ensure our eyes aren't damaged from the blue light found in all of our devices, such as laptops, smartphones and iPads. Not only are these glasses good for your health, with benefits such as enhancing your focus and productivity and reducing any eye strain, but they can also be a great fashion accessory, as there are so many chic and stylish frames to choose from.

FASHION SUNGLASSES

- Tips for choosing your next pair of eyewear sunglasses -

- Choosing glasses is a lot trickier than people think. You can't always just pick up styles you like as they simply might not suit you. Before you start looking, it’s important that you determine what your face shape is, so you can select the right size and style to complement your face.

-  Make sure your chosen sunglasses are comfortable and fit your face properly. By doing this, you'll be more inclined to reach for them on a daily basis and wear them for long periods of times whilst outside.

- Make sure that your chosen sunglasses block the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Sunglasses are not always an accessory just for summer time. Make sure to protect your eyes all year round - even on those cloudy, sunny days. This is probably the most important thing to consider when looking at new eyewear and getting your hands on a new pair. When it comes to eyecare, you can’t be too careful so make sure to opt for glasses that offer 100% UV protection to make sure you're getting the best protection. Maybe opt for bigger frames or oversized glasses. These eyewear styles will give you much more needed protection and help to minimize the amount of UV rays entering your eyes.

What sunglasses are you loving right now?
10:00 No comments
AD - GIFTED | Many people choose to take part in workout classes, exercise and other physical activities to help them maintain a healthier lifestyle and have a positive impact on their mental health. Whether you're looking to get fit, a new user of the gym or you're someone who attends for multiple sessions a week, sometimes the day after a tiring workout can be quite a struggle. 

If you're currently committing to at-home workouts, attending gym classes or getting outside for your workouts, there are plenty of ways in which you can aid your body post-workout. The amount, intensity, and length of your workouts all play a huge role in determining how exhausting it is on your body. Also, things such as your physical body type, stamina and fitness levels are key factors in determining the best way to recover and the length of time necessary. Let's look at 7 ways to help aid body recovery for everyone to consider after your next workout.

WORKOUT ROUTINE

Stretching after you've completed your workout for the day can have so many short and long-term benefits. It would be incredibly stupid not to spend at least 5-10mins after every session to work on stretching - it can also double up as your cool down to help slowly get your body back to a normal, resting state. A number of benefits include helping to increase your flexibility, prevent risk of future injuries, and helps to relax muscle tension in your body. 

Consuming enough nutritious foods will give your body the much needed energy, fuel, vitamins and minerals it needs to perform day to day bodily functions and to recover quickly post-workout. Diet plays a huge role in helping the body to recovery after strenuous exercise and tiring workout sessions. After any workout, your body needs time to repair and recover. Making sure to consume enough protein in your diet, especially after your intense workout, can begin to start repairing the muscles.

Consuming enough water before, during and after your workouts helps to control and regulate your body temperature. Making sure to rehydrate is essential for those who have exercised /worked-out intensely or have broken into a sweat. Drinking water and other fluids are essential for your post-workout routine and to aid your recovery. Hydration after a workout is a vital step in your road to recovery. If you’re simply not hydrated enough, your body will not be able to perform at its highest level.

BODY MASSAGE

Many individuals, especially athletes and regular gym users incorporate massage into their recovery routine in order to reduce any muscle soreness, easing any of your aches or pain and improving your overall flexibility. Massage also can help to decrease your stress levels, reduce any inflammation, improve circulation in the body and also can help boost your mental health. If you're looking to get your hands on a personalized massage gun, you may want to keep on reading and find out my experiences using Actigun.

Getting enough good, quality rest is easily one of the most effective ways to recover after an intense workout. Sleep is so essential and a plays a key role in your daily bodily functions. Sleep allows your body to slowly repair its muscle tissue, and by making sure you're resting enough each night - 8 hours is a good time-frame, you'll also be reducing your chances of any future injury and struggling with fatigue. It's also essential to ensure you have both a comfortable and support pillow and mattress to ensure your body holds a correct posture all night long.

Not only will a nice cold shower will help you cool off after an intense, sweaty workout, they can also help benefit your body in a number of other ways. Cold showers can also have some amazing effects on your well-being and health. Cold showers help to improve circulation in the body, increase your alertness, speeds up muscle recovery and improves your immunity.

Another vital way you can aid your body into recovery after your workouts is to incorporate rest days into your weekly routine. Rest days are just as important in your routine as exercise is. Obviously, the main reason for this would be to allow your muscles to recover from any strain or damage from previous workouts. It’s needed for muscle recovery and repair, preventing injury and fatigue, and will help to increase your overall performance. Letting your body recover after exercise and getting good, quality rest is the best thing you can do for your body and your fitness goals.
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Introducing Actigun

ACTIGUN ACE MASSAGE GUN

I was kindly sent the Actigun Ace to test out for myself and to see if this massage device could aid my own body recovery post-workout or for when I'm feeling any aches and pains in my body. You may be thinking, what even is Actigun? Well, Actigun is a personalized massage gun installed with an AI Chip - it is made for your physical needs and applicable to all your body parts. 

"Once Actigun is started, the AI chip will react to the condition of your muscles and provide the exact percussive strength you need with a humanized-interactive experience. "

ACTIGUN ACE MASSAGE GUN

The Actigun is extremely lightweight, at only 1.5lbs, it's incredibly portable and travel friendly. It also comes cord-free and tidies away nicely with a sleek carrying case. You'll be able to bring your Actigun Ace anywhere you go - especially as it has around 4+hours of battery life! Some massage guns can be notoriously noisy, Actigun features a brushless motor and will probably be the most quiet massage tool that you will ever own.

Using the Actigun is incredibly simple. Complete with an ultra HD LCD touch screen display, you can easily see what speed setting level you are using - 30 adjustable speed levels to accommodate all body needs, and also the remaining battery life. You can also easily alter the speed level to your liking with the simple + and - features, depending on your needs. The Actigun also comes with a variety of replaceable massage heads which come in handy when working on different parts of the body. Each massage head is designed to massage differently and get deeper into the muscles to relieve any pain. 

ACTIGUN ACE MASSAGE GUN

Over the last month, I've been using the Actigun twice a week on various part of my body - mainly my back, shoulders and legs. From the first use, I felt such an improvement with how my body felt. So calming, pressure and pain relieving, it's hard not to use it for hours on end. Even after a long day at work, using this for a few minutes just helps calm and destress the body within minutes. 

The ergonomic, non slip design makes it incredibly easy to use and to reach anywhere on your body with no problems at all. Even with the chosen speed, percussive strength and the vibrations, it's really comfortable to hold and easy to direct to the places you feel any tightness, pressure or pain. With an affordable price tag, a number of ways in which it can be used and such a versatile, high quality product, what's not to love!?

Have you heard of the Actigun? How do you relieve aches and pains after workouts and aid your bodies recovery?
10:00 No comments
AD - GUEST POST| Wearing a toupee helps bald men boost self-confidence and level up their look but buying for the first time can be complicated. Limited knowledge can make you end up with a toupee that doesn’t fit your hair goals. That’s why we decided to create this first-time buyers guide!

Here’s a quick guide to buying the perfect toupee!

MENS HAIRCUT

Head Size
Imagine you are going to order a suit for yourself. The tailor can’t make a well-fitting suit without taking the measurements, right? Of course not! That’s why the size and dimensions of your head play a major role in ordering a custom toupee. Take precise measurements of your head with the help of a friend. This will help you to order the perfect toupee!

Face Shape
There are hundreds of toupee hairstyle options available online which makes it hard to choose the right one for the first time. Many hair system companies have in-house cut in services to cut the hairstyle for you. Analysing your face shape will help you in choosing the perfect toupee hairstyle. Oval, round, diamond, square, heart, and pear are some of the most common face shapes in men. Make sure to determine your face shape and the best hairstyle suited to your face shape before ordering!

Hair Type
Human hair and synthetic hair are two major types of hair used to design a toupee. While both have their share of pros and cons, the majority of men buy toupee hair replacement systems designed with real hair to get a natural look. Many toupees are designed primarily with human hair, and synthetic strands of grey are added to create a more natural effect, especially for older wearers of hair systems. The grey is also used as with synthetic hair, it does not change colour through washing and wear. It should be noted that the lifespan of synthetic hair toupee is longer in comparison to real hair.

Lifestyle
There is a large difference between the lifestyle of a sportsperson and a corporate professional. Before ordering a toupee, it’s good to consider how you will spend most of your time. Will you hit the gym every day with a toupee on? Will you do a lot of travelling with it? Considering your lifestyle will also help you in choosing the perfect hairstyle and hair colour for your toupee.

MENS HAIR CUTS

Hair Length
The length of hair plays a major role while buying the perfect toupee. Buyers often purchase medium hair toupees to get them trimmed according to their needs. Some toupee companies offer haircut services at a small cost to provide their clients ready-to-wear products.

Online-Store
The next step is to find the right supplier for your toupee. Check product reviews and quality to buy your first toupee from a reputed hair system company. Browse through the catalogue of shortlisted stores to check out product quality, pricing, offers, warranties, and shipment details.

Customize
A lot of suppliers give customers the option to customize the toupees according to their tastes and preferences. After selected the toupee you want, you can choose to customize it according to your styling needs. As we mentioned above, the measurement of your head and personal style preferences will help you in customizing the hairpiece.

Review and Order
If you have gone through the above steps carefully, we are sure you will have found the perfect toupee. But wait before hitting the order button! Check shipping options and discount coupons since many companies offer discounts to first-time buyers, especially if you register an account.

The above beginner's guide will help first-time buyers shop for the perfect toupee. Let us know what you think about our quick toupee buying guide! Have questions in mind? Drop them in the comments to get a quick reply from hair experts.

10:00 No comments
AD| Over the last year the pandemic has seen the majority of workers across the world begin working from home, turning kitchens, bedrooms and living rooms into office spaces. This new way of working has led to many organisations adopting a hybrid working approach, or completely shutting down their offices. With working from home definitely here to stay, it is important to make sure you switch off after the working day to ensure your mental and physical health is not affected. 

Here’s 4 ways to switch off when working from home, allowing you to make the most of your home life; from exercising to socialising, there’s plenty of ways to unwind.

WORK FROM HOME

1.Get active
Once the working day is over, unwind by getting active. Whether you hate the thought of working out, or simply can’t find the motivation, push yourself and find the time to unwind after working. Exercising can be very beneficial if you work from home, as it gets your body moving after being stuck at a desk all day. It also increases your endorphin levels, resulting in a positive effect on your mental health.

If you’re looking for some inspiration on how to get started, you'll find plenty of workout videos available on fitness apps and YouTube. Alternatively, get a gym membership which will give you the opportunity to get out the house and socialise, providing more benefits in regards to your mental and physical health.

2.Enjoy the outdoors
After a long day you may be tempted to settle down on the sofa and watch Netflix for the evening, but you’ll feel much better by going on a walk to enjoy the outdoors and taking a break from your screen. One of the key benefits of working from home is the lack of commuting, so as soon as you finish work, put on your walking socks and grab your boots to step outside for a lovely walk with your loved ones and take advantage of the fresh air. Alternatively, take a stroll at lunch time to give yourself a break in the middle of the day or in the morning before work to wake up and refresh your mind for the day. Challenge yourself by using a step counter on your phone or smart watch to push yourself even further.

3.Create a workspace
It can be difficult to switch off when you work from home, especially if your desk is located in a room where you spend most of your free time whilst you’re at home. It’s highly recommended that you set up a home workspace away from your bedroom and living room so you have a healthy balance between work, sleep and play. You should also set up a sustainable working environment by treating yourself to a comfortable chair and spacious desk which is suitable for your needs.

4.Be sociable
If you spend the whole week working from home, it’s important to socialise as you’re missing out on the social interactions of office life (apart from the occasional video chat!) Ensure you plan activities to look forward to each weekend, no matter how big or small they are, so you’re spending time with other people. Planning activities of an evening can also give you something to look forward to at the end of the working day and help take your mind away from work. 

If you're looking for evening activities, try going to the gym or an exercise class, video chatting friends or family and going out for dinner. During the weekend you could go out for a meal and drinks, take a trip to the cinema or do something different and host a garden party to enjoy the sunshine with your friends and family.

Start following these tips today to help plan your life so you can switch off and relax outside of your working hours and make the most of your evenings and weekends.

How do you switch off if you are currently working from home? Do you have any favourite hobbies or activities?
10:00 No comments
AD| Are you looking to promote grow your brand or business? Then you need to get your hands on your own business cards ASAP! Whether you're a business owner or even a blogger, most of our marketing and networking methods are all based online and would generally include websites, social media platforms, emails, tweets, or contact forms, but it's still so important to keep those "old-fashioned" business cards at the ready for when you meet people offline and in real life. But the question is, are business cards relevant in 2021 and do they have still a place in a online, digital world?

Business cards are extremely effective marketing tools. Using business cards can help to give a great first impression of your website or brand, before even visiting the homepage. Not only can they make a great first impression, you are able to produce all the relevant contact information into your potential future client’s hands in a matter of seconds, no Google searching required. Making sure to have a bold design, the correct information in place and an eye-catching colour theme can really be beneficial in building your brand, making it memorable and attracting new clients and connections. It can also show others that you're very serious about your work, it shows just how professional you are and can also lead to new opportunities you may never have thought about. But now, let's discuss 4 reasons why you still need a business card in 2021!

GIRL ON LAPTOP

- Affordable way to promote your brand -
Business cards can usually be bulk ordered for a relatively low cost depending on the company you use for their services. Prices for bulk ordering will obviously differentiate depending on number of business cards you require as well as some design elements; including the quality of the paper, colour, layout and size. Many online companies offer a great range of special offers or deals when it comes to business card printing, where whether you need 100 cards or 1000, you are bound to find a great offer whatever your budget is.

- Easy to distribute to others on a daily basis -
Networking is about making lasting, genuine, personal connections with new people to potentially grow a long-lasting relationship. Business cards are an extremely convenient marketing tool to use as they contain all the required contact information that you wish to share others. Instead of scribbling down your contact details on a scrap piece of paper, it’s so much easier, quicker, more professional to simply carry business cards with you to distribute to people you meet on an everyday basis.

- Can be designed and personalised to your brand -
Business card designs have evolved over the years, and nowadays, there are so many more business card design options than ever before. When it's time to design, remember less is more when to comes to business card designs. A well-designed business card will convey all of the relevant information your potential clients need to know, with personal details like your name, website URL, phone number and email address. As well as these details, your business card are a brief introduction into your brand/company. Your design is a vital component of your business card. Make sure your business card reflects your brand well, make it bold, eye-catching, and highlights your brand message.

- Travel friendly size so convenient for networking on the go -
Exchanging your personal business cards in person with new people/clients is one of the most direct and effective ways of introducing yourself, you can share business cards in a as little as a second. Due to their size, you can hand out a business card to almost anyone at any time of the day with no problems whatsoever, you will never know where you’ll meet a potential customer, so it's important to carry your cards with you when you're on the go. Your own business card is a mini advertisement for your brand, company or organisation, and allows others to see in seconds what you and your brand are about.
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Does your business card need a refresh? Are you looking to create your own business cards for your brand? Then you need to keep reading. 

AURA PRINT BUSINESS CARDS

Aura Print kindly offered to help me design, create and print my perfect business cards with their easy business card printing services. I was kindly offered the chance to receive 250 business cards featuring my own ready-made design, to ensure I am ready for any offline encounters, where I want to promote my brand and network with new clients. 

Aura Print are a boutique printer who specialise in creating fantastic business cards that promote your brand and give amazing first impressions to whoever you distribute your cards to. They take extreme pride in curating and producing some of the best custom print jobs, with a huge range of design templates with customisation options that other printing companies simply cannot match.

AURA PRINT BUSINESS CARDS

For my personal business cards for my blog, I wanted to design something fun, bold and colourful, but keeping it as minimalist as possible. At the end of the day, that saying "less is more" is really relevant here. I wanted a double-sided business card that featured a simple, modern design - similar to my blog aesthetic of a bold, minimal website, and to make sure I include the basic contact/personal information that I thought was relevant for me and my brand. 

The printed business cards arrived extremely well packaged. All my business cards stored away in small, clear plastic boxes, perfect to slip into any bag for on the go travel. There was so much care and detail taken with my order, it was simply so professional, I couldn't recommend enough.

AURA PRINT BUSINESS CARDS

In terms of style, I opted for the 700 silk, gloss finish laminated business card printing as these were best suited for colourful designs with bright tones. Just what my design needed. The protective gloss coating bounces light causing reflections that catch peoples eye and makes them stand out. The gloss laminate also offers a bit of extra strength and toughness to your card giving it a more durable, sturdier feel. 
For the layout, I chose to have my business cards printed landscape, with a size measurement of 89mm by 51mm. For me, this is the most ideal and practical size, as this makes the cards more travel friendly and able to fit into most wallets/card holders safely and securely. 

Throughout my whole experience with Aura Print, I was kept informed and updated with my order ideas every step of the way. From helping with design tips, to viewing printing proof to helping with crops and bleeds on my design, and even contacting me once my order had been processed and despatched. I cannot fault the customer service at all!

Have you heard of Aura Print? Do you use your own business cards for promoting your blog, company or brand?

10:30 No comments

 AD| Online dating has definitely become the new normal, and hundreds of singles are signing up to websites and apps in search of love. Over the last few years, the dating scene has been somewhat disrupted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the future of dating will most likely follow a more uncertain path as we all get our heads round the lifting of restrictions and getting life "back to normal". 

Nowadays, most people believe online dating as a great way to meet someone new and to form new connections and relationships. Meeting people online - whether that's via a UK dating site or the latest online dating app can be extremely nerve-racking, especially for those who haven't dated in a while, but it can also sometimes be dangerous, especially if you aren't 100% careful and making sure to follow certain precautions. But overall, online dating has definitely become more socially acceptable, more common and more normal than ever before. Here are 6 dating tips to help you be more successful in the online dating world.

ONLINE DATING

It can be very hard to know exactly when you'll be ready to date again. Especially just after a breakup from a previous relationship or from being single and spending lots of time alone. Before you even think about engaging in the dating world, the most important thing to consider is that you make sure you are ready to start dating. You need to make sure that you're in the right head space and mind-set to be meeting new people and opening up to others about relationships and dating. You should ideally try to be as open minded as possible as well as be mentally and emotionally prepared to get back on the dating apps. The quote “love yourself first and everything else falls into line" is so relevant here.

Being completely honest about what you want and who you are makes it more likely that others will want to match, begin talking to you and end up meeting with you if things are going well. It's important not only for yourself, but for others to be aware of knowing what you want and what you're looking for. Make sure to be 100% genuine, real and honest with others, and especially with yourself. State your intentions clearly to ensure you're doing what is best for you and to make sure you don't lead anyone on. Whether you're using online dating to build friendships, looking for love, dating for professionals or just testing it out, make sure you're honest with yourself and who you are talking to.

Find the best dating site for you. Choosing a dating site that's perfect for you takes time and research, as there are so many out there right now catering to so many different people; whether that's by age, location, religion or sexuality - whether that's dating in your local area, single parents looking for company or over 50's dating - there is something for everyone. Sometimes you won't strike lucky from just joining one app, it might take signing up to a few to get yourself eased into online dating and to meet people who share common interests with you.

DATING APPS

Everyone knows that beginning dating and starting a relationship isn't something that usually happens overnight. Taking your time and being patient is probably the best direction to take when looking for love online. You'll want to make sure your dating journey runs as smoothly and naturally as possible. Spend time getting to know people both online and off. This allows you to see if you have that initial spark, those things in common and if you sense any chemistry between the both of you. There's simply no point rushing into anything too soon, it can become stressful, overwhelming and can making your love life not enjoyable.

Create a good online dating profile. Your dating profile should give a short and sweet overview of who you are as a person and make you stand out from the crowd. There are so many people these days logging on to dating sites and apps, so use this opportunity wisely to express your personality, share your hobbies and what you're looking for etc, allowing people to see an understand who you really are and what you're about. When writing up your profile, make sure to include short, to the point sentences - not paragraphs. People don't have all day to be reading essays, save the in-depth information for when you meet up outside of the dating app. If you want to share your playful, humour side, include emojis to make it fun and make you stand out from the competition.

Not only is a good dating bio essential in being successful online, choosing your best photographs will also help in building a great online profile. Making sure to use some of your most recent and relevant photographs - choose images that are visually interesting and reflect who you are and what you like. Whether you love to travel and have some great holiday snaps or you're into sport and have some amazing memories from previous competitions - be sure to include them as this helps others get to know you better online, before you meet in real life. For those who love a good selfie, pick smiling selfies as these make you look more approachable and friendly helping you to increase those online matches. And finally, when choosing your photographs for your profile, try to avoid using all group photos - this can make it very difficult for potential matches to know exactly who you are, and may put people off from connecting with you as they are unsure.

Are you currently using any dating apps? What other tips would you recommend for those looking for love online?
11:30 1 comments
AD| Moving in with a partner is an exciting milestone in any relationship. It also has its challenges as you both learn about each other’s idiosyncrasies and quirks – and argue about who’s turn it is to do the dishes! One of the most enjoyable elements of living with a partner for the first time is decorating your place together.

The bedroom is one of the most important rooms to get right. It is a space where you will need to be able to relax and unwind together and ensure that you have space for all your belongings. Here are some of the essential things to buy for your first-ever shared bedroom.

BEDROOM INTERIOR

Storage
One of the most crucial elements is ensuring there is enough storage space for both of you. This can get tricky if you’re both shopaholics! At a minimum, you will each need your own space in a wardrobe and chest of drawers. Whether you can share one of each between you both is the next question. If you have limited space in the bedroom, it may help to consider different storage solutions. For instance, you could get some boxes to store clothes under the bed or use in-built storage to save space.

Curtains 
Curtains are essential for both privacy and getting a good night’s sleep. It is important to choose curtains that appeal to both of you, so it may help to go window shopping to get an idea of how your home décor tastes align. You could choose from many different kinds of curtains, from insulating curtains to blackout or lightweight curtains. It can help if you’re both on the same page about what you want from your curtains and do your best to compromise when you disagree.

Lighting
Lighting is all-important in the bedroom. Bedrooms are typically multi-functional rooms where we do everything from folding laundry to packing bags for holidays to sleeping. Therefore, it can help to invest in lighting of varying types so that you will always have the best lighting for the situation. You could consider a dimmer switch that will allow you bright clear lights when doing housework and mood lighting for evenings in bed. Bedside lamps are also a must for any couple who tend to have different sleep schedules.

Mattress
Your first mattress with a partner can make a big difference to your quality of sleep. It is crucial that you are both satisfied with the mattress you choose – this is one thing that it can be detrimental to compromise on. While mattress shopping can sometimes be tedious, there are ways to make the process easier. For instance, you could use an online comparison site to get an idea of the options out there and make a shortlist to try out in person. Check out this list from The Mattress Guide that answers the question: what is the best mattress?

BEDROOM INTERIOR

Pillows
Pillows are often simpler to buy as a couple, as you can each choose the pillows that suit you and your needs best. It is helpful to test out different pillows to find the ones that will provide the best support and enable you both to get the best sleep possible.

Mirror
Mirrors are a great way to help make a small room look larger, bring in extra reflected light and, of course, get ready in front of. You could consider a wide hanging mirror that has plenty of room for both of you to do your final preparations for the day in front of, or choose a full-length mirror to help you both decide on outfits.

Dressing Table
A dressing table can be the perfect addition to a shared bedroom. If you have space, you could invest in a large dressing table designed to fit two or choose a more traditional dressing table that you can each use in turn. The dresser could contain makeup, aftershave, cufflinks and jewellery – essentially any of the finishing touches for when you’re getting ready for an event.

Colour Scheme
Choosing a colour scheme that you both like can be a challenge. It may help to choose a neutral theme so that you can both incorporate decorations and ornaments in your favourite colours. White, beige, pale blue and grey are all great colours that contrast nicely with most other colours.

Fragrance
The scent of a room is an often under-utilised element of home decoration. Our sense of smell is closely linked with emotion and memory, meaning that the right scent can play a massive part in creating a relaxing and enjoyable bedroom environment. Again, it is crucial that you choose a fragrance that both of you enjoy. You could consider experimenting with different scents or using essential oils and room sprays to make your bespoke home scent. It is vital not to use fragrances too heavily as an overpowering home scent can end up being the opposite of relaxing.

Do you currently share a bedroom with your partner? What other home décor essentials have you included in your living space?
12:30 No comments
AD| Beauty is in clear, healthy, and glowing skin. Clear and healthy skin is a reflection of your overall health and wellness. Beautiful skin needs exceptional skincare. Start your day with a healthy skincare routine to enhance the glow and natural beauty of your skin.

You feel embarrassed if you have skin with flaws or spotty skin. Occasional pimples, blemishes, adult acne, and hormonal acne are pretty stressful. Flawless skin doesn’t happen overnight, and it requires effort and commitment. Plan a skincare regime and stay committed to following it regularly. If you have spotty skin, don’t stress yourself. Instead, try a few remedies that can help you achieve glowing skin.

SKINCARE FACE MASK

1. Oats, Lemon, and Honey
It is vital that even before you try any remedies, you follow a strict hygiene regimen. You should act like a germaphobe and keep your skin clean to avoid any infections. The natural properties of oats make it a great skincare product. It treats blemishes, skin spots, exfoliates the skin, and is a natural oil absorber. Lemon contains vitamin C and citric acid and has natural antibacterial properties. Honey contains antioxidants and acts as a mediator that binds oats and lemon. As a result, it creates the best anti-inflammatory exfoliating skin brightening mask.

Take a handful of oats in a bowl and add a half teaspoon of honey. Add a few drops of lemon to the paste of oats and honey. Blend all three ingredients well and apply the mixture to your face. Rub the oats gently on your face, move your fingers in a circular motion as if exfoliating. Areas having dark spots and blackheads need more work. Let the mixture on your face for 15 minutes. Then wash off with warm water.

2. Tea Tree Oil, Honey, and Yogurt
Tea tree oil contains natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is very effective against dark spots and acne. A combination of tea tree oil, yoghurt, and honey do wonders. Take a teaspoon of honey and a teaspoon of yoghurt in a bowl. Mix 5-7 drops of tea tree oil to the mixture of honey and yoghurt. Apply this mixture all over the dark spots on your face and let it rest there for 15-20 minutes. Then, wash your face with lukewarm water.

3. Baking Soda and Lemons
Baking soda is effective against dark spots on your face and body. It works to dry the excess sebum from the skin and lightens the dark spots till they disappear. Mix a teaspoon of baking soda in a little water. Apply this mixture to areas having dark spots and leave it for 15 minutes. Then, wash your face or other body parts with lukewarm water. In addition, you can also add a few drops of lemon into the mixture of baking soda and water. It will become an exfoliating scrub. Rub this mixture gently onto the dark spots in a circular motion. This way, it removes the dead skin cells leaving your skin clear and spot-free.

4. Turmeric and Olive Oil
Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties. It is best to bring out the natural glow and evens your skin tone. Olive oil helps to moisturise the skin. Take a pinch of turmeric in a bowl and add one teaspoon of olive oil to it. Apply this on your face and leave it for 10-15 minutes. Wash with lukewarm water. You will notice the dark spots have become lighter.

5. Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil is naturally extracted from the seeds of the jojoba shrub. Jojoba oil is a natural waxy substance. This waxy substance heals wounds, acne lesions and repairs damaged skin. The compounds in the jojoba oil reduce swelling around pimples, redness, whiteheads, and inflamed lesions. Take half a teaspoon of jojoba oil in a teaspoon of Aloe Vera gel, cream, or clay mask. Apply this on your face gently and leave it for 15 minutes. Then, wash your face with lukewarm water. You can also take few drops of jojoba oil on a cotton pad and rub it gently on acne spots.

6. Yoghurt
Yoghurt is one of the natural products for skincare. It contains probiotics, vitamin A, and vitamin D that are useful for skin regeneration. Yoghurt targets pimples and acne spots and moisturises your skin as well. Don’t go for flavoured yoghurt, rather a plain natural yoghurt. Take a little quantity of yoghurt and apply it to your pimples or acne spots. Leave it there for 30 minutes, and then wash your face with lukewarm water. See the wonder it does by drying out your pimple and soothing the oily skin.

7. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a plant extract and acts as an astringent. It reduces acne inflammation, clears pores, and targets excess oil. Witch hazel is an excellent treatment for spotty skin. You can also pair it with other acne fighters. Raw witch hazel can be applied like a toner to your face. Pour drops of witch hazel on a cotton pad until it gets moist. Gently tap this cotton pad on your face. It will cleanse and brighten your skin. For spotty skin, apply witch hazel directly on your acne spots and let it rest for 10 minutes. Then, wash your face with lukewarm water and notice the wonder it does. 

What are your favourite skincare products?
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GUEST POST | When you’re moving anywhere, it can be a stressful and difficult time- and it can sometimes feel daunting to think about all the many things that need to be sorted before moving into your first flat or house.

I recently moved into my first flat, moving out of my family home and in with my partner after a long period of long-distance. This was a big step, and at times it felt overwhelming as we prepared for the big move. Even though I moved away to University in a different city a couple of years ago, this was a totally different experience- and one that really taught me a few things that I would do differently if I were to do it again.

Below, I’ve put together 5 ways to prepare for moving into your first ever flat. Whether you’re moving into a furnished flat with your partner, or you’re about to buy your first home, I hope these tips help you prepare for the big move!

MODERN FLAT DECOR

1. Buy the essentials
When preparing to move into your first flat, it’s a good idea to make sure you have all the essentials before moving in. Make sure to buy all the basics for your first few days, and avoid that panic when you realise you don’t have any cutlery, or a pan for cooking your food. You don’t need to buy every single thing before you move in, but just having a few of the essentials can help to calm your nerves as you prepare to start out on your own.

2. Maximise your space
If you’re moving into your first flat, chances are you’ll be living in a relatively small space- and it may be smaller than anywhere you’ve lived before! Make sure to learn how to maximise the space you’ve got and choose furniture, products, and decorations that make the most of this space. You want to create a beautiful but tidy living space that works for you and anyone you’re living with.

3. Have fun!
When you’re moving into your first flat, don’t forget to have fun! Preparing to move into your first flat is such a fun and exciting experience, and there’s lots to enjoy about this time in your life. For example, you get to buy homeware essentials, cute decorations, and you might even receive fun moving in gifts all ready for your first night. Even though there’s lots to do, there’s also a lot to look forward to- and when you’ve moved into your flat don’t forget to celebrate this exciting occasion with a toast!

MODERN FLAT DECOR

4. Make an inventory
When I moved into my first place, the estate agent’s arranged a full inventory for the flat, and they made sure any damaged furniture was documented for the landlord. But if you don’t receive an inventory for your first flat, make one! You need to make sure you don’t get charged for any damages that aren’t your fault when you eventually move out, and it can never hurt to make a note of everything your property has- whether you’re renting or buying.

5. Save up
When you’re preparing to move into your first flat, it’s a great idea to save up a bit of money. Take it from me, you’ll be spending a lot in your first month! Up front charges such as your deposit will be a one-off, but there’s bound to be unexpected charges as you navigate life on your own and buy bits for your new home. It’s always a good idea to have a bit of money saved up, and avoid any money panic in your first couple of months to give yourself a little leeway. If you’re saving to buy your dream home, you might also thank yourself for having a head-start.

If you’re moving into your first flat, there are so many things to consider- and it can be easy to get overwhelmed by everything that you need to prepare and organise before the big moving day. However, there are a few important ways to prepare for moving into your first flat- and find a way to make your move as fun, enjoyable, and smooth as possible!

Have you recently moved into your own flat/home? What other preparation tips do you have?

Guest post written by Eleanor Jones
Blog: notsomoderngirl.com  /  Twitter: @notsomoderngirl
10:00 1 comments
AD| Exams can be stressful at any age, usually because they lead to certain opportunities, such as admission into university or a dream job. A little stress is a good thing because it motivates us to try our best, but sometimes it can become too overwhelming to deal with, leading to various mental health issues. I have teamed up with an international school in London to share some advice on how to cope with exam stress.

EXAM PREPARATION

Make Healthy Lifestyle Choices
You may be tempted to pull some all-nighters to cram in extra revision, but that is not good for your health and will make it harder for you to retain the information and concentrate the next day. The same applies to drinking energy drinks and unhealthy snacks; they’ll give you a temporary high, but this will be followed by a crash in your energy, and you’ll feel irritable. 

With that said, make sure you’re taking care of yourself during exam period. Get enough exercise and sleep (around 8 hours per night), and eat a healthy, balanced diet. A short walk once a day will help clear your head and put you in the right frame of mind to continue studying. If you don’t make healthy lifestyle choices, you may put yourself at risk of getting sick because your immune system will be compromised, and you may have heightened anxiety.

Prepare a Study Schedule
It may sound boring, but preparing a study schedule will help you feel more organised and therefore less stressed in the run-up to your exams. Make sure to include additional study time for the subject areas you are struggling with, because there’s no point in spending equal amounts of time revising topics you’re both ace at and rubbish at, as you’ll start to panic about the more challenging areas.

Take Frequent Breaks
You should include regular breaks in your study sessions because it’s important to relax, stretch, have a snack or socialise so that you don’t go stir crazy. Psychologists say that we can only concentrate for around 30-45 minutes, so set a timer and allow yourself some time away from your desk, even if it’s just for 5 minutes.

Revise with Peers
If you know anyone that will be taking the same exam(s) as you, you should consider studying with them. Research as found that revising with peers is effective because you can help one another, while also providing emotional support, which can help you feel more confident. Quizzing each other and talking through problems can help you retain information.

Believe in Yourself
Set yourself realistic goals and believe in yourself. If you don’t think you’ll be able to get an A*, aim for a B so that you don’t feel as pressured. If you have carried out plenty of revision and have realistic expectations, you should be proud of yourself and how hard you have tried so far. Try and replace negative thoughts about failure with positive ones, such as “No matter what grade I get, I know that I have tried my best and have already come so far”.

Seek Out Support
Don’t be afraid to lean on your loved ones for support. Talk to someone you know will help calm you down, rather than increase your stress levels by putting pressure on you. Parents with steep expectations, for example, probably aren’t the best people to go to for a shoulder to cry on. Other relatives, friends and tutors could be options of people you could speak to for some emotional support.

Do you have any exams coming up? How are you preparing for them and coping with stress?
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AD| Looking for ways to build/grow your own online business and begin to make more money online? Starting an online business is easier than ever. Nowadays, the internet makes it so simple and so easy to start an online business, which can be worked on from the comfort of your own home and with your own flexible hours for your work life. Starting an online business can be extremely inexpensive, as the majority of the time, all you will require is your initial business ideas, a laptop or smart phone and an internet connection. It's as simple as that!

Choosing the right online platform for your online business is incredibly important and something that will take a lot of consideration and research. More and more businesses are moving online to ensure a wider reach and build a bigger brand. Shopify is an eCommerce platform where you can build and run an online business, hosting many different businesses and is an incredibly versatile online tool. It's designed to help people build their own online store with hundreds of built-in features that can help avoid any unwanted tech issues 24/7, to ensure your online business journey runs smoothly.
 
ONLINE BUSINESS

 Quick and Easy Set Up
If you're planning on getting your online business set up quickly and easily, Shopify has a simple start-up process. Shopify itself is a very user-friendly platform where building your business doesn't require technical skills. With the use of a Shopify Agency, you can create your website on Shopify for your online store within minutes, making the process much smoother and less stressful, as all of the software you'll require is already built-in to the platform.

Customer Support Services
Technical experts are constantly available 24/7 to assist you with any questions, queries or problems with your Shopify online store. Shopify’s customer support is very reliable, punctual and easily accessible. The eCommerce platform also offers a number of user forums, FAQ pages and other useful documents/links to support you and your online business.

Security and Reliability
Building your online business can be very daunting as you will be giving away many personal details online with information such as your name, your address and your bank details. With using a platform like Shopify, their focus is on protecting any sensitive personal, customer and company information to ensure all this date is stored correctly and privately to avoid it getting into the wrong hands.

Built-in Marketing Tools
Using the Shopify eCommerce platform for your online business gives you access to a number of SEO and marketing tools, including social media sites, email marketing lists, and product review ratings. As well as this, there are SEO features available that can help you to boost your websites reach, as well as other marketing tools to help you understand your customer habits and preferences.

Mobile Friendly and Responsive
Many people nowadays use their smart phones for online shopping and browsing, so it's extremely vital to have a well put together, responsive online site and that your webstore is mobile-friendly for all devices. You need to have a quick-load time, easy to navigate online store and everything laid out clearly to ensure it's all easily accessible. 

Have you heard of Shopify? Do you currently run your own online business or would you like to start one?
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AD| With the summer holidays just around the corner, many parents are looking for ways to keep their children (and themselves) busy over the break. Why not use it as an opportunity to take up a new hobby? Pursuing hobbies is important because it allows us to relax and do something we love, while also develop our skills and knowledge. There are obviously lots of options, such as sport or music lessons, but I have teamed up with a private school in Hertfordshire to share some more unique ideas of hobbies you could consider, either for yourself or for your child.

FAMILY PHOTO

1. Swimming
Not only is swimming fun for adults and children alike, it’s also an opportunity to keep fit and make friends. In fact, it provides an all over body workout, because all of your muscles are used, and your cardiovascular fitness is improved without putting too much stress on your body. What’s more, your posture, balance, and flexibility are all improved. Just be sure to warm up your muscles before you start. In addition to the physical fitness benefits of swimming, it’s also great for your mental health because it can alleviate stress and help you relax. It may even be an opportunity for you/your children to make new friends.

2. Coding
In a world where technology is rapidly expanding, coding is a fantastic skill for both children and adults to develop. Who knows, it may even lead to some fantastic career options.

3. Photography
Photography is a fantastic hobby because it allows you to find the beauty all around you, no matter how small. This will help you see things in a different light, which can be massively therapeutic and help reduce stress. Taking photos can help you preserve your memories and allows you to explore your creative side. You could even take it one step further and start scrapbooking with the photos you have taken.

4. Astronomy
This is a great hobby for those interested in space, no matter their age, and all you really need is a decent telescope. It’s a fascinating pastime that can help you get to know the night’s sky. Many amateurs have even contributed to important research, but many people like to draw or paint what they have seen at the telescope or take some fantastic photos.

5. Gardening
If you’re looking for a hobby that allows you to get some fresh air, exercise and much needed vitamin D after what seems like an eternity in lockdown, gardening might be a good option. It’s very rewarding because once you take a step back to admire your work, you’ll more than likely be thrilled with the results and have a beautiful space for the family to hang out during the warmer months. It’s also something you can all do together. Head to a garden centre and have a chat with the staff there to get some information on which kinds of flowers and shrubs you should plant at this time of year, or perhaps stick to vegetables as a starting point. If you have no idea what you’re doing, there are plenty of books and online resources that can give you relevant information.

What are your current favourite hobbies? Are there any hobbies you would like to start taking part in?
10:00 No comments
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