Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight a new blogger, RabBits.
Stories about family, faith, friends and funnies. Pull up a chair. Grab a cup of coffee and laugh, cry, ponder and inspire about ordinary events of this wonderful, ever changing, bubbling pot that we call “every day life”.
RabBits is one interesting blog and I know you will find something that strikes you.
“Our patients go to battle every day, fighting through their pain to go to work, play with their kids, be ‘normal’ – medication is only one piece of the puzzle”
Dr. Jacob Hascalovici, MD, PhD Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer
I had not been to the Clearing App in a while and I wanted to know what was new. I found the quote and had to share it. Here are two posts I wrote about Clearing.
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight a new blogger, Karima Hoisan.
I perform frequent readings throughout SL, utilizing voice with selected music, some, my own original compositions, and images I display of photographs and artwork to accompany each poem.
Make sure you visit her site, the artwork is amazing!
I want to give a special thanks to Publisher Soraya Nair of Trigger Publishing for sending me Work It Out by Fiona Thomas. The book is so relevant in our lives today.
About the Author
Fiona Thomas is a freelance writer who was born in Glasgow but is now living in Birmingham, UK.
Since starting her mental health blog in 2012 she has been published in Metro, Reader’s Digest, Happiful Magazine and Grazia to name a few. She has also been featured in Cosmopolitan, Red Magazine, Good Housekeeping and Refinery29. She speaks regularly about mental health and freelancing at events all over the UK.
Her first book ‘Depression in a Digital Age: The Highs and Lows of Perfectionism’ was published in 2018, and was called “brilliantly honest” by bestselling author Emma Gannon. Her second book ‘Out of Office: Ditch the 9-5 and Be Your Own Boss’ is a guide to freelancing with a focus on mindset, practicality and mental health.
Her passion is working with female-led businesses and shining a light on the positive impact that freelancing can have on our wellbeing.
Blurb
“A brilliantly honest reminder about how to control your online space and not let it control you” – Emma Gannon, Sunday Times bestselling author
“Fiona writes about mental health with fearless honesty and a quick wit. So much will resonate with so many” – Yvette Caster, host of Mentally Yours podcast
Fiona Thomas was your average ’80s baby. She grew up without an iPhone, used actual landlines to make calls and didn’t have the luxury (or perhaps the curse) of Facebook during her adolescent years. But though her childhood took place in an analogue world, she found herself suffering from the same problems many young people face today: the race for perfectionism, high levels of anxiety, a fear of success.
After an unfulfilling university experience, a stressful beginning in a management career and a severe case of impostor syndrome, Fiona suffered a nervous breakdown in her mid-twenties. Amongst therapy and medication, it was the online community that gave Fiona the comfort she needed to recover and find a career that made her happy.
Through her own experience at the time and with the benefit of hindsight, Fiona provides signposts for the reader to help them to understand:
the importance of the right type of connection, both on and offline, not only with others but with oneself
how connection can aid in recovery
that finding the right career can help to enhance our wellbeing and mental health
how and why purpose and wellbeing are interlinked.
Peppered with listicles, questions to ask yourself and key takeaways, Work It Out perfectly combines first-person lived experience with practical advice. Fiona shows us how to prioritize our mental health by finding the right purpose-centered career and how the internet has helped to make that possible.
My Thoughts
Our lives are surrounded by Social Media if we let it and Work It Out shows you how to keep Social Media from taking over your life, and how to make real connections. Fiona share her experience with mental health challenges including a nervous breakdown and how along with medication the Social Media community gave her the support and comfort she needed.
Thru her personal experiences, she discusses how to understand the importance of the right type of connection, how and why purpose and wellbeing are interlinked, and many other ideas on connections.
I love the section on questions to ask yourself and Fiona provides examples of how to have balance in our life.
Work It Out is a first-hand experience of Fiona’s most challenging times and how she kept moving forward until she reached her goals and much more. When you see all the publications she’s been published in you will go WOW!
Work It Out is a book for adults who have experienced challenges and have a desire to find balance in their life and how to make better connections. Who doesn’t need a book that provides support you know and later, it’s a bookshelf treasure for sure.
I highly recommend Work It Out, I learned a great deal from reading the book.
Trigger Publishing
TriggerHub.org is the first mental health organization of its kind. We are bringing mental health recovery and balance to millions of people worldwide through the power of our books.
We have built a first-class resource of curated books produced and published in-house to create a unique collection of mental health recovery titles unrivaled in quality and selection. We work with experts, psychologists, doctors, and coaches to produce our books, but we also work with real people looking to share their stories to reach out to others and provide hope, understanding, and compassion. These brave authors also aim to raise awareness of mental health’s “human” face and its impact on everyday lives.
Whether you put on your cap and gown last week — or last century — these honest answers can give you some insight and guidance.
“If you don’t know what you want to do with the rest of your life, you’re not a failure. Give yourself time and get yourself experience to figure things out.” — Angela Duckworth (TED Talk: Grit — the power of passion and persistence)
“Although I think I already knew this back when I graduated from college, I didn’t do it enough: trust your instincts. Deep inside you, you already know what you need to do to pursue your goals. And just as importantly, do not seek permission to pursue your goals. Pursue them. Only by doing so can you show the world what you had in mind and get the support of others.” — Alejandro Sánchez Alvarado (TED Talk: To solve old problems, study new species)
“Don’t take yourself, your decisions, your outcomes or even your mistakes so damn seriously. There’s nowhere special to get to and no special accomplishment to check off the list. The moment is now; the place is here; the person is you. Make choices that make you feel alive. But here’s my advice about my advice — I couldn’t have possibly done this myself when I was a new college graduate because I was Wrapped. Way. Too. Tightly. This would have sounded like loosey-goosey hokum to me, and I’d have rolled my eyes and gone back to alphabetizing my soup shelf. Truly, what I wish I’d done differently during the past 20 years is enjoyed the ride and engaged in less hand-wringing over my decisions. I wish I’d trusted myself more, trusted the universe more, trusted the love and support of family and friends more, and realized this: ‘I’m enough, and it’s all going to be great.’ Because it has been marvelous.” — Casey Brown (TED Talk: Know your worth, and then ask for it)
“It’s okay to quit your first job — even if it was really hard to get it, it paid well, and everyone seemed to admire you for getting it. If you hate your job, you’ll be wasting your life acquiring skills, contacts and a reputation that you don’t want to use. The sooner you find something you love, the better.” — Tim Harford (TED Talk: How frustration can make us more creative)
“The world can only thrive when people know what they’re talking about. Find the thingthat makes you want to know what you’re talking about. Then talk about it.” — Ruth Chang (TED Talk: How to make hard choices)
“The advice that I wish I’d gotten when I graduated from college is: Pay attention to the difference between the quick hits of excitement that come from that first kiss of a new relationship or job and those feelings you get when you think about your strong connections with family or friends. Don’t get fooled by shiny things — that shine fades over time, while the gold of strong relationships never tarnishes. Remember the differences between these feelings to help you make decisions as you go forward.” — Judson Brewer (TED Talk: A simple way to break a bad habit)
“1) Your high heels are not too high, even if you are a scientist. Someday, your unusual shoe choice will be just the right height to carry you into prestigious research labs and important business meetings, and help you peer into a wasp nest and discover a microorganism that will change the beer-brewing world. Your heels are just right for your journey. 2) There can be great beauty and great utility in what at first evokes feelings of fear and disgust, so dare to explore. 3) Remember to stop and sniff the microbes. This will probably help you gain perspective, but it will definitely help you discover future microbial technologies.” — Anne Madden (TED Talk: Meet the microscopic life in your home and on your face)
“Regarding relationships of all categories (platonic, romantic, professional, etc.): Don’t let someone take up your emotional real estate if they aren’t paying rent.” — Sarah Kay (TED Talk: If I should have a daughter … )
“Never stop learning. When we graduate college and start our careers, we often understand that we have a lot to learn, so we approach our jobs with a learning orientation. We ask questions; we observe others; we know we may be wrong; and we realize we’re works in progress. But once we gain competence in our jobs, too many of us stop learning and growing. The most successful people — in work and in life — never stop deliberately continuing to learn and improve.” — Eduardo Briceño (TED Talk: How to get better at the things you care about)
“I felt a lot of urgency to ‘do good’ right out of the gate after college, working in nonprofits and government right away. I wish someone had urged me to build my skills instead, so I would have received mentoring on my professional performance and communication early on. Then, when I transitioned into the social good sector, I’d have had a good set of tools and habits to bring with me.” — Jessica Ladd (TED Talk: The reporting system that sexual assault survivors want)
“Graduation is a euphoric moment, but soon after, people often experience withdrawal symptoms. One reason is that your immediately accessible social network has been pulled out from under you, and entering ‘the real world’ means that you lose the effortless social interaction from dorm life, organized clubs and regular parties. Rather than feeling down, be intentional about maintaining and building a social world that brings out your richest self. And, when you hit your lowest points, in addition to turning to your strongest and closest relationships for support, have the courage to widen both your thinking and your networks as well.” — Tanya Menon (TED Talk: The secret to great opportunities? The person you haven’t met yet)
“Look for people’s inner worlds. Imagine their hopes and fears and what it feels like to be them. Seeing into other hearts can make you more effective in achieving personal and professional goals. It may also give you the comfort of remembering how deeply alike we all are.” — Bill Bernat (TED Talk: How to connect with depressed friends)
“I was the first to attend college in my family, so neither my parents nor my siblings could advise me on my graduate school or career plans. I heeded my inner calling and pursued two master’s degrees in information systems at same time, and it all worked out well. Remember: your best academic counselor and career advisor is your heart.” — Navi Radjou (TED Talk: Creative problem solving in the case of extreme limits)
“I know the anxiety-provoking notion that you have to specialize or you will never become successful is weighing heavily on you right now. There’s good news! It just isn’t true. You can do and be many things and still thrive professionally. Over the next ten years, you’ll meet amazing people who are doing all kinds of things, such as a programmer/comedian/author and a filmmaker/teacher/carpenter. It’s OK to be a complex, multifaceted person who doesn’t fit neatly in one box. In fact, it’s actually a lot of fun.” — Emilie Wapnick (TED Talk: Why some of us don’t have one true calling)
“Be less afraid of getting older — way, way less afraid. Our fears are way out of proportion to the reality, and we squander a ridiculous amount of our youth worrying about it.” — Ashton Applewhite (TED Talk: Let’s end ageism)
“Give yourself more time. So many college graduates immediately start wanting to make all their dreams come true at once — this can go wrong in many ways. The first is the frustration that you’re not ‘there’ yet. It’s going to take time to find (or build) your dream career. The second is burnout. If you find your career early, you can find yourself setting all sorts of unrealistic goals with arbitrary deadlines and chase them until you drop from fatigue. You can have it all — but not all at once.” — David Burkus (TED Talk: Why you should know how much your coworkers get paid)
“Whenever possible, get as uncomfortable as possible. Challenge yourself to get outside of your comfort zone regularly — spend time with people you deeply disagree with, read books about experiences you will never have, travel to places where you don’t speak the language, and take jobs in industries you’ve never worked in before. And if you feel yourself resisting, try again. Those experiences will help you build deep empathy, and we could all use more of that.” — Anjali Kumar (TED Talk: My failed mission to find God and what I found instead)
“Surround yourself with people who help you be the best versions of yourself. Avoid those who don’t. And get enough sleep.” —Lisa Feldman Barrett (TED Talk: You aren’t at the mercy of your emotions)
“When I graduated, I wish I’d known the research showing that future success doesn’t lead to happiness. I sometimes got paralyzed by the fear that happiness existed only if I found the perfect job, degree or position. In truth, the research is clear: happiness exists down almost any life path as long as you are grateful for the present, and develop meaningful relationships. Choose optimism and gratitude now and invest more in others, and happiness will be a lifelong advantage as you pursue your dreams.” — Shawn Achor (TED Talk: The happy secret to better work)
“You don’t have to pursue what you studied. I followed my heart, and now I’m happier and more satisfied with life than I could have ever envisioned. We kill ourselves looking for jobs in our fields of study, while there are a million other things we are able to do. I also wish somebody had told me money doesn’t equate to happiness. When you get a job and start working, don’t forget to live.” — Kasiva Mutua (TED Talk: How to use the drum to tell your story)
“You don’t have to do something extraordinary to lead a meaningful life; you don’t have to cure cancer, become an Instagram celebrity, or write the Great American Novel. Freud said that the meaning of life lies in love and work. So: In your relationships, lead with love. Be generous, be vulnerable, give of yourself to others, and don’t do the expedient thing just because it’s more convenient for you. Make the effort to put others first. In your career, find work that makes you proud and adopt a service mindset — remember how what you’re doing helps others, no matter how big or small the impact may be. Touching the life of just a single person is a powerful legacy to leave behind. Finally, make gratitude a part of your daily life; don’t save it for Thanksgiving. Every day, reflect on one or two things that happened to you which you’re grateful for. Not only will it make you happier, but it will also put you in touch with what really matters. Then, when you experience setbacks or hardships, it will also be a good reminder of how blessed you really are.” — Emily Esfahani Smith (TED Talk: There’s more to life than being happy)
“When you finish college and begin your first job or internship, you’ll be keen to learn all you can and impress your employer so you can start on the path to promotions and raises. But the important thing that you might not see amidst all this excitement is the great idea that could someday become a great business or entrepreneurial venture. I’ve found the most interesting employment that life offers is often something of your own creation that you do full time or in addition to your main job. So, after you graduate from college, take the time to identify a venture that you’d like to do by yourself or with friends, and start building it. One day, you’ll be glad you started early.” — Washington Wachira (TED Talk: For the love of birds)
“Move toward the light — toward people, activities, ideas that make you see more, that nourish you. Do this for at least five years. At that point, you can take stock and decide if you need to do some utterly practical, careerist, traditionally ‘wise’ thing. But give yourself a chance to follow your heart and your mind first. The best careers are built by people who have had a breadth of experiences on which to draw. Don’t get anxious if for a while your life seems to be made of a lot of fragments; in time, they will seem like facets of a diamond.” — Sherry Turkle (TED Talk: Connected, but alone?)
“That adage about pursuing things you’re passionate about does eventually pay off. When? No one knows. I suppose that’s why it’s a pursuit.” — David Sengeh (TED Talk: The sore problem of prosthetic limbs)
“It’s traditional at graduation to offer neat, packaged stories of triumph over difficulties. But life isn’t like that — it’s open-ended, subject to a million contingencies and constant change. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t make plans. But it does mean you should be alert to all the changes in the world and in yourself that could render your plan suddenly obsolete, unattractive or perverse. Be open to change. Be prepared to experiment. Take risks. Keep learning. Make your life your own.” — Margaret Heffernan (TED Talk: Dare to disagree)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rebekah Barnett is the community speaker coordinator at TED, and knows a good flag when she sees one.
Until age 40 my life was focused on work, making more money, and having nice designer goodies. My granny had a major stroke in 2004 and by 2005 I was helping my gramps take care of her. Being in their house brought me back to what was important, having a roof over your head, food on the table, and love. I had lost touch when the promotions and money started coming in.
I would tell my younger self to define my life by setting goals, working harder than others, and most importantly don’t forget to create a life that includes what in life is most important to you. Money is great, it buys things but having more things will not make you truly happy in life.
Chronic illness affects millions of people worldwide and is defined as a long-lasting health condition that may not have a complete cure. These conditions can range from mild to severe and can manifest in various forms, including diabetes, peptic ulcers, heart disease, hypertension, chronic kidney disease (CKD), asthma, and more. Also, although the term ‘chronic illness’ typically refers to conditions that are not autoimmune in nature, all autoimmune conditions, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), psoriasis, Graves’ disease, etc., are chronic. If you or someone you care about is living with a chronic disease, the following steps for coping with chronic illness aim to empower you with knowledge and insight so you can better understand and manage your condition.
Those who live every day grappling with chronic illnesses inevitably encounter diverse sets of challenges to face both physically and mentally. Regardless of how symptoms manifest from person-to-person, mental health is an equally important aspect to consider in the overall well-being of those with chronic illness. Thankfully, the following strategies can help navigate these obstacles and, when applied, can ultimately lead to an improved quality of life.
This is not a complete list of all the awareness days, if you would like a more complete list, click on the National Today at the bottom of the page. Have a great day.
I didn’t tell my grandparents about the abuse from my Mother and Step-Father until forced by my school at 12 years old. Looking back, why didn’t I tell my grandparents earlier? I knew I could trust them.
I would say to my 12-year-old self, life will get messy at times, and leaning on those who love us will help us thru the pain.
I was kindly gifted a copy of The Smart Girls Handbook, How to Silence Self Doubt, Find Your Purpose, and Redefine the Impossible by Welbeck Publishing which is a division of Trigger Publishing.
Hi Melinda,
I am the author of The Smart Girls Handbook and I have to be honest, I cried when I read your review, it’s the first one that came in and you nailed the precise mission I wanted the reader to get out of the book. It would be brilliant to connect further but on launch day (March 4th) I’d love to invite you to share a review on Amazon knowing how inspiring you found it! I really think you could help mothers and other women in purchasing it. My entire business has been built on the idea of women fundamentally deserve more from the media and are fully deserving of living a beautiful life full of confidence, ambition and self-worth. I can’t wait to hear your thoughts, Scarlett X CEO/FOUNDER
XX
Scarlett V Clark was 19 when she started her passion project which is now the UK’s largest Women’s Empowerment organization. Scarlett states she is just a girl who decided to go for it. Go for it she did! Today she helps millions of women overcome life’s obstacles which allows them to live to their full potential.
Blurb
Giving women the tools they need to shine in the modern world, become their fearless and authentic self, and design the life and career that fills them with joy. The Smart Girls Handbook brings together inspiration, game-changing ideas, and empowering words from women around the world who have been through it all.
Scarlett V Clark is a speaker and the award-winning founder and CEO of Smart Girl Tribe, the UK’s number one female empowerment community. She is available to provide extracts and top-tip features such as:
• How my toxic relationship became the catalyst for my success
• 6 stress busters to stop feeling anxious
• ‘You grow through what you go through: embracing failure
• How to silence your inner ‘mean girl’
My Thoughts
The Smart Girl Handbook is for women who are tired of being told what dress size they should be, tired of the negativity surrounding them today including from other women, and for women who want to be their authentic selves. Life happens and it’s not always pretty but with a backbone, determination, and the guidance of The Smart Girl’s Handbook you can come thru unscathed, just slightly bruised but not battered.
Learn how to not fall into the traps set out there to trip you up. Life around us is very negative, the news outlets, social media, and even toxic friends. You have to learn to rise above the negativity and Scarlett helps you silence your inner mean girl. The Smart Girl Handbook is all the questions you wish you could have asked when younger but had no one or place to turn for the answers.
I encourage every woman to buy Scarlett’s book, The Smart Girl’s Handbook. Maybe even share one with a friend. This is not your average self-help book that has been regurgitated over and over. She’s witty, original, and honest about the problem and how to get the answers. She’s not sharing pie-in-the-sky stories, this is her life, dissected and laid out for you to learn from. I think The Smart Girl book is an excellent primer for moms to help their daughters navigate the rough waters ahead.
Website: www.smartgirltribe.com Facebook: Smart Girl Tribe Instagram: @smartgirltribe Podcast: ‘The Smart Girl Tribe Podcast’ is available on Podbean, Spotify, iTunes, and anywhere you can find podcasts.
WelBeck Publishing Group
We are Welbeck Publishing Group – a globally recognised, independent publisher based in London. Our mission is to deliver talent-driven publishing with leading authors and brands worldwide. Our books and products span a variety of categories including, fiction, non-fiction and stationery and gift. We are renowned for our innovative ideas, production values, and developing long-lasting content.
Welbeck’s amazing product comes to life for adults, children, and families in over 30 languages in more than 60 countries around the world. We have collaborated with many of the world’s leading institutions and licensors including – Disney, Universal, Paramount, HBO, Queen Productions, FIFA, International Mensa, Roald Dahl Literary Estate, the Science, Natural History and Imperial War Museums, and Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
There are few things more exciting than learning to drive for the first time. When you do, and you have a vehicle to accommodate you, a world of freedom opens up. Sure, fuel and insurance can be expensive, but once you’re ready to go, the freedom to travel where you’d like to with the people most close to you is wonderful.
No matter what age you learn, this holds true. However, just because you can legally drive on your own now, it doesn’t mean that you’re free from the exacting safety requirements and responsibilities necessary for staying safe on the road. You already know this of course, and we’re sure you’ll make an excellent driver.
That’s why it’s important to keep a firm, but focused observation every time you’re behind the wheel, and to do your best to set a good example on the road. For this, we believe the three following insights can help you more than anything else. Without further ado, please consider:
Never Trust Other Drivers
It’s essential that you never trust other drivers as a default, even those you know in front of you, because any manner of situation can cause those behind the wheel to struggle to operate their vehicle. For instance, a blown tire, a faulty dashboard, and unresponsive brakes, they can all cause a well-meaning and disciplined driver to struggle to stay safe. This means always being observant, never taking anything for granted on the road, and driving how you’d like others to key. This attitude will help you avoid being taken by surprise and should be considered a constant “amber” level of awareness behind the wheel.
Set The Example
It’s important to set an example on the road, even if this can be hard at times. For example, if you’ve had a night of drinking, don’t drink hungover if you’re in any way sloppy, unless you’re conscious, energetic, and alert, because you can still be inebriated. Don’t allow yourself to give into road rage, even if another fool seems content to try and intimidate you on the road. If you see an issue in front of you, carefully exit that road and find another way around. It’s always best to err on the side of safety, even if it makes you slightly late.
Document Where You Can
Documenting what you see and what happens to you on the road can be helpful, such as with a dashcam that helps record any accidents you become involved in. Here, your attorney will help you seek justice with such good evidence to hand. On top of that, keeping a notebook so you can write down insurance information, keeping your phone charged so you can take pictures of license plates, and always having your documentation to hand in case you get pulled over can be helpful. This way, you’re always prepared and ready where necessary.
With this advice, we hope you can feel more comfortable and capable as a new driver on the roads.
Improving your cooking skills is never a bad idea. Around 28% of Americans admit to having little or no skills in the kitchen. Everyone needs to eat, and preparing your own healthy, home-cooked meals can help you improve your health, reduce your reliance on junk or processed food and help you learn skills you can apply in other areas of your life too.
That being said, not everyone is a natural in the kitchen, and you only need to watch one of the many cooking shows to see the lack of skills some possess when it comes to whipping up meals. Hence, finding tips and hacks that can allow you to still eat well without the effort is an excellent way to build confidence in the kitchen to build on this and further improve your skills.
Read on for some tips to hack cooking and help you become a better cook and enjoy better meals and improved health.
Use A Slow Cooker
Slow cookers are a great way to help you eat better and also cut down on the prep work involved while building up your skill set. You can use low cookers for a wide range of meals, from soups and stews to pasta dishes and even desserts. Why not try this chicken cacciatore for an easy go-to midweek meal? The beauty of slow cookers is that, generally, you put everything together and let it do its thing. There is physically minimal prep depending on the meal or dessert you are making.
Use Gadgets
While you need to know your way around a knife for cooking, different knives have different uses; in the early stages or to cut down on prep work using kitchen gadgets such as mandolins for slicing and chopping blenders can help you out in a pinch, and get the ingredients prepped while you get to grips with cutting and chopping. Multi-tools, chopping boards with measures on, splash guards, and more can all come in useful throughout your cooking journey.
Bulk Prep
If you are prepping for your meals and practicing your skills, try bulk prepping or meal prep to help you out for future cooks. It can be tricky initially to get your technique sorted or to make the right quantities, so making more on purpose not only gives you more practice but can also give you some bits ready-made that you can use to help your next creation a bit easier.
Preheat
One of the best tips you can have when learning to cook or expanding your skills is to preheat. Preheat your pan, oven, grill, etc. Never pour your oil into a cold pan, and always check that your oven is at the right temperature before popping food in to ensure an even cook. It can be worth investing in a thermometer if needed for your cooking appliances and your food to ensure everything is at the right temperature.
Conclusion
A kitchen is a place where you can have fun and get creative, but learning the basics will go a long way in helping you to create some fabulous meals. Start simple, and build your way up to more complex dishes to really make a move from beginner to Masterchef.
I want to give a special thanks to Sean McLeod, Assistant Commissioning Editor with Trigger Publishing for sending the book Own Your Awkward by Michelle Morgan. I took a glance and it looks like a great read.
About the Arthur
Michelle Morgan is a leading voice in mental health and a proud Ambassador for Mental Health First Aid England. In 2016 Michelle experienced burnout, anxiety and depression. She views her mental health challenges as both a burden and a blessing; from a terrible time, good things came. Michelle is an Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) Instructor, an international speaker and corporate trainer (clients include Facebook, HSBC, Pukka Herbs, The Prime Minister’s Office, Red Bull and Good Energy). She is also the Founder of Pjoys – PJs with Purpose, and Co-founder of Livity, a creative business that works with brands and the next generation to “build the future better”. Her work has been widely lauded: she is the recipient of the Queen’s Award for Enterprise and EY Entrepreneur of the Year Award, and has been invited to join the Society of Leadership Fellows at St George’s House, Windsor Castle.She lives in London with her husband, artist Remi Rough, their daughter Lili and dog Teddy. Connect with her at http://www.michellemorgan.uk and http://www.ownyourawkward.com. Find her on Instagram @michellemorgan.uk and on Twitter @michellemorgan
Blurb
A hugely practical and inspiring self-help guide, Own Your Awkward will help you handle those awkward conversations around mental health. Michelle Morgan blends research and personal experience to help you tackle those topics, whether in the workplace or with family and friends. Let’s be honest – it can be really awkward talking about our mental health! Whether you’re offering someone support or looking for ways to help yourself, these conversations can feel difficult, embarrassing and complex. In Own Your Awkward Michelle Morgan, Mental Health First Aid Ambassador, trainer and speaker explores why we feel awkward and shows us how to talk more openly about our mental health – and how we really can embrace our awkward. Through her own story of burnout, clinical depression and anxiety, combined with the lived experience of others, Michelle explains how you can transform those tricky moments into your power using four key cornerstones – confidence, capability, communication and compassion, to help reframe your story. You’ll learn how to start those all-important conversations, with clear steps and practical advice. It’s time to get comfortable with feeling uncomfortable, love your awkward and have better and braver conversations about mental health.
My Thoughts
There are self-help books that sound like a repeat of what you’ve read and there are self-help books that have quality content you can apply right away. Own Your Awkward is one of those self-help books that you keep on your bookshelf to read again or to share with others.
If you struggle to talk about mental health, like so many of us do, Michelle’s book will coach you on how to handle awkward conversations with the people in your life. Her professional achievements and her own mental health challenges make her the perfect person to write this book.
I highly recommend Own Your Awkward for anyone who needs support for themselves or to help others. This book is one for the whole family to read as it aligns everyone’s knowledge and will continue to help as each becomes more comfortable talking.
I could have used the help of Own Your Awkward as I struggled with my mental illness diagnosis at 19 years old.
Trigger Publishing
TriggerHub.org is the first mental health organization of its kind. We are bringing mental health recovery and balance to millions of people worldwide through the power of our books.
We have built a first-class resource of curated books produced and published in-house to create a unique collection of mental health recovery titles unrivaled in quality and selection. We work with experts, psychologists, doctors, and coaches to produce our books, but we also work with real people looking to share their stories to reach out to others and provide hope, understanding, and compassion. These brave authors also aim to raise awareness of mental health’s “human” face and its impact on everyday lives.
Combine the sugar and olive oil in a bowl. Transfer the scrub to a glass jar, wrap it with a strip of fabric, and tuck in a dried flower clipping.
To Use
Gently massage a dollop of scrub on the face in a circular motion. Rinse off and apply your favorite mousurizer. Use whenever your face or beard area feels itchy or flacky.
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight blogger, Saturday Morning Reflections.
My reflections on the week past accompanied by music and memories
My family is unconventional, furry and well “normal” although that is debateable…
They assist (…yes lets go with that)with the day to day functioning of our tribe. I have no need of alarm clocks or a doorbell. Lilly knows when the farmer next door lets out his geese and Jake is always on the lookout for anyone stopping by or even looking up at the window. He assumes (incorrectly I might add) that I can’t see what he sees.
As a parent, you are probably constantly worried about your kids and that’s completely normal. You need to make sure that you feel as though your kids are safe both in and out of the home. That’s easier said than done, particularly when you consider how many dangers could impact your kids every day. So, what dangers are we thinking about here? Let’s explore some of the possibilities.
It’s easy to forget how dangerous cars actually are. After all, you’re hurtling down a highway in a metal tin at about 70. Does that sound safe to you? While technology has evolved considerably over the years to make cars safer, a lot can still go wrong. This is why it’s important to check your car regularly and recognize the signs that it might need a repair. Companies like Elite Automotive will be able to make sure that you can easily fix your car on a budget and ensure that it is safe for the road. You can also think about updating your vehicle to a newer model. When you purchase a later car, you will be able to take advantage of driver-assist tech which is the least advanced form of autonomous technology.
Water Woes
You probably don’t think too much about the water coming out of your tap. However, it could be hiding dangers that you haven’t considered. Research has found that most modern water supplies contain incredibly high levels of fluoride. This is the substance that is used in toothpaste and it’s also used by water companies to clean it. The problem is that fluoride has been found to cause health issues when consumed. It has been linked to everything from brain tumors to cognitive decline. This is why you might want to consider investing in a water filter. The benefit of a water filter is that you can remove all the dangerous chemicals even if the water looks completely normal.
Stranger Danger
Finally, if there’s one worry that trumps all others for parents it’s certainly the concern about strangers. You only have to read the news to know that the world isn’t safe for kids. There are a lot of people out there who should be considered a threat. To keep your kids safe, you might want to consider using trackers, particularly when they are playing outside independently. Trackers can be very discreet these days and look like accessories that kids wear all the time. These smart devices can even tell you when your child has left a location that you deem to be safe that you are immediately alerted that they are in trouble. You will immediately be able to contact the authorities.
We hope this helps you understand some of the dangers that you do need to be aware of as a parent. It’s important that you do not overlook these issues as they can put your kids in serious jeopardy. However, if you take preemptive action, you can guarantee that these problems won’t be plaguing your mind any longer.
If you’re a vegetarian or vegan, or just trying to reduce your meat intake, you know how hard it can be to come up with tasty and creative meatless meals. But don’t despair! With a few easy steps, you can make delicious and nutritious meals without worrying about hurting any animals in the process. Whether you prefer something simple and savory, or something more exotic, these tips will help make your next meat-free meal absolutely scrumptious!
Start with the basics
When it comes to cooking meatless meals, starting with the basics is key. To get off on the right foot, begin by stocking your pantry and refrigerator with ingredients that will form the foundation of your meals. This includes items like beans, lentils, tofu, tempeh, vegetables, grains (such as quinoa), nuts, seeds and plant-based oils. If you’re short on time, you can even purchase prepared vegan or vegetarian meal starters like falafel mix or pre-made veggie burgers. Once you have these staples in place, use them as a base for your favorite recipes or experiment with new creations!
In addition to the basic ingredients listed above, don’t forget to add flavor enhancers such as herbs and spices. Not only do they add great flavor to any dish but they also provide a host of health benefits—think anti-inflammatory turmeric or disease-fighting garlic! Plus they are an ideal way to make a meatless dish more substantial. You can also add some zest by using flavorful condiments like hot sauce or salsa; toss in some citrus juices for a bright element; and don’t forget about savory ingredients such as miso paste or tamari sauce.
Finally, make sure you understand how to properly prepare each ingredient for optimal results. For example, when cooking grains like quinoa or brown rice be sure to rinse them first and follow instructions for proper water ratios so that you end up with well-cooked grains instead of mushy ones! With these few simple steps in place, you can enjoy delicious meatless dishes without compromising on taste.
Get creative
Now that you have the basics covered, it’s time to get creative! Start by looking up vegetarian and vegan recipes online or in cookbooks for inspiration. From there, you can customize any recipe with your favorite ingredients, herbs, and spices to make it truly unique. You can even modify traditional dishes like lasagna or chili to make them meatless without losing their flavor.
For a quick and easy meal consider making a veggie-loaded wrap; all you need is a whole wheat tortilla plus whatever vegetables and condiments you have on hand. If you’re having guests over, try making an appetizing roasted vegetable platter accompanied by hummus or tzatziki dip. And don’t limit yourself to recipes – you can also have fun creating your own dishes by experimenting with new flavor combinations.
Try New Recipes
Trying new recipes is a great way to expand your culinary knowledge and creativity when it comes to cooking meatless meals. With vegan and vegetarian cuisine becoming increasingly popular, there’s no shortage of exciting recipes out there waiting to be discovered. To liven up your meal routine, try looking for recipes from around the world — like vegan tacos with sautéed veggies and black beans, Thai stir-fries, or Mediterranean salads — as these dishes are often packed with flavor and nutrition.
When trying something new, it’s important to read the recipe carefully so that you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. In addition, pay attention to details such as how long certain ingredients need to cook or how much seasoning should be used. If possible, watch a video of someone else making the recipe first as this can help you better understand the steps involved in making the dish. It may also be helpful to make notes of any changes you may want to make next time such as increasing spices or adding more vegetables for extra flavor.
Finally, don’t be too hard on yourself if the recipe doesn’t turn out exactly as planned! Cooking is an art form and even experienced chefs have mishaps from time to time. Making mistakes is part of the learning process and can lead to some amazing discoveries along the way! So don’t be afraid to get creative with your cooking and enjoy exploring new flavors!
In conclusion, meatless meals can be both delicious and nutritious. By following the steps outlined above you will be well on your way to creating flavorful, satisfying dishes that even meat-eaters would enjoy. So get cooking and start exploring a whole world of exciting meatless options!
Being involved in a car accident doesn’t just come with trauma at the time, it can cause all kinds of stress after. You will need to deal with the other person, your car, finances, and more. Hence, it is good to understand what to do after a car accident to restore your health and attain the best outcome.
Whether your car incident was a life-changing accident or resulted in a minor injury, it is still important to seek the right help and take the necessary steps to help you regain your mental and physical health.
Seek legal help
One thing you must do if you want to attain a fair result after a car accident is to contact a legal expert.
Finding a car accident attorney near you will ensure you can communicate with them on your case and reach a final decision sooner. You won’t need to wait around too long and stress about the answer. Instead, you can collaborate efficiently and get a faster decision.
They will support you through every step of the aftermath and ensure you have what you need to attain the fairest legal decision.
Get the other drivers’ details
Another thing you must do after a car accident is get the other drivers’ details. If you do not have them, it will be more difficult to make a claim.
Having their details means you can keep in touch with them and get the information you need to support your claim. They might have experienced a worse injury than you, so you can also use their details to keep in touch and ensure they are recovering well.
Get medical help
If you have experienced a major injury, you must seek medical help immediately. This should be the first thing you do when the car has come to a stop. If you cannot call the emergency services, someone around can do it for you.
Furthermore, if you have attained minimal or no injuries, you should still consider being seen by a healthcare professional. They can assess your health and ensure there is no underlying damage.
You might experience mental health problems due to the trauma and shock. If so, you should seek mental health medical support to help restore your mental health.
Get plenty of rest
Whether you have attained injuries or not, it is still good to rest after a car accident. It can cause tremendous shock to the system, which might take time to recover from.
Therefore, get plenty of rest and take some time off work so you can recover and reset before returning back to normal life, especially if you are going to drive again.
Using these tips, you can ensure to restore yourself physically, mentally, and financially after an accident. You should always seek legal and medical support to get the best outcome and ensure you recover fully. Even if you do not have major injuries, you still need an assessment and some care to ensure you can successfully overcome the shock.
Imagine this: While driving down the road with your family and enjoying an exciting day trip, disaster strikes! Your car sputters and groans abruptly before grinding to an unexpected halt – only for it all to end with you facing car troubles that require immediate solutions. But fear not; in this comprehensive guide, we’ll go through how you can support and aid your loved ones during such trying moments.
Breakdowns are unwelcome guests at road trip parties! Car breakdowns are caused by any number of factors; from battery issues and engine troubleshooting problems, to tire blowouts and fuel shortages–to name only a few! Routine car maintenance plays an essential part in protecting against breakdowns; just like eating healthy keeps us at our best physically; getting regular check-ups keeps our loved vehicles happy and in top form, too!
2. Immediate Steps to Take
Your car stalls unexpectedly and panic sets in. The first order of business should always be to ensure everyone’s safety: move to an isolated spot away from traffic if possible and breathe deeply before calling for assistance if necessary. Also, it is wise to carry around a safety kit full of reflective vests, warning triangles, and flashlights. It pays to think ahead!
3. Provide Emotional Support
Car breakdowns can be emotionally trying for all involved. Frustration, anxiety, and despair may put a damper on everyone’s spirits; therefore it is crucial that someone remains available as an emotional support figure during these trying times – Keeping calm and carrying on is often advised upon by experts; engaging in open communication between loved ones can reassure everyone everything will be alright in time; additionally engaging your children in problem-solving can reduce worries while turning an otherwise trying situation into an opportunity for bonding experience!
4. Call a Professional
At times when DIY doesn’t cut it, it’s time to seek professional assistance! Breakdown specialists, professional towing services, and skilled mechanics are like superheroes: when in trouble, they come quickly to our aid with expertise that gets us moving again faster than we could otherwise manage alone. All it takes is one call!
5. Finding Reliable Repair Services
When you find yourself in a situation like this, finding trustworthy mechanics of garages is like finding treasure. You can find recommendations from friends or online reviews. Keep an eye out for certifications or affiliations from well-recognized organizations or manufacturers – your car deserves top care!
6. Turn Car Troubles Into Family Adventures
Who said car breakdowns are only bad things? We can embrace our sense of adventure and see the silver lining in even something like a car breakdown! While car problems may interrupt plans, they also create lasting memories! Consider turning your breakdown into an opportunity for bonding as you explore nearby spots or embark on an unscheduled picnic while waiting for assistance; sometimes the unexpected moments become some of our fondest, cherished ones!
7. Learn Life Lessons
Life often throws us curveballs, and car breakdowns serve as a valuable lesson in resilience. In times of hardship, we learn how to adapt, problem solve, and persevere – use this experience with your family members as an opportunity for them to discuss staying calm under pressure, teamwork values, and collective solutions; such experiences not only test patience but strengthen bonds within families as a result.
8. Plan Alternative Transportation Options
Are your wheels broken, but you still need to travel? Have no fear; alternative forms of transport exist! From public transit (bus or train), carpool rides with colleagues or friends, or renting temporary wheels; whatever works is the key! Just ensure any insurance policies or rental agreements cover you before embarking on this new adventure!
9. Set a Budget for Repairs
Repair costs can be an unexpected surprise that makes life financially arduous, yet managing these unexpected expenses doesn’t need to be scary or unpredictable. Set aside emergency funds so as to address vehicle-related surprises head-on while taking advantage of any payment plans or financing offers from repair shops available, and always obtain repair estimates and compare prices like an expert bargain hunter on an expedition!
10. Take Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Breakdowns
It has long been said that an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure when it comes to car breakdowns, and this certainly applies in this instance. Preventative maintenance and TLC are vital in decreasing future breakdowns – keep tires properly inflated, fluid levels full, and scheduled inspections on schedule regularly to minimize future breakdowns; additionally keep emergency supplies such as spare tires, jumper cables, and tool kits handy as a backup plan should something come up unexpectedly!
11. Once Your Vehicle is Back on Track
Once car maintenance has become an accomplished endeavor, turn it into an enjoyable family activity by engaging everyone with simple tasks such as checking tire pressure or washing the vehicle together, as well as learning to change a flat tire! Not only will this develop responsibility and teamwork within your household unit, but it will also provide ample opportunity for shared experiences and quality time together – who knew car maintenance could become such a fun bonding activity?
12. Connect With Others
Sharing your car breakdown story in our modern world can often bring comfort. Do it online forums, social media platforms, or casual conversation; you might be amazed by what stories others share as well as empathy extended from others or advice offered; this may provide
invaluable insights, tips, or even laughter while connecting with fellow travelers who’ve encountered similar troubles – after all, we are on this journey together!
13. An Opportunity to Teach Your Kids
As your children become young drivers themselves, it’s crucial that they receive proper education regarding car trouble and how best to tackle it. You can take this opportunity to teach essential maintenance like checking oil levels or changing tires; also discuss having an emergency kit ready in case of breakdown; this way you empower them with the knowledge that equips them to become responsible and ready drivers prepared to face whatever comes their way.
14. A Guide to Car Troubles Abroad
Breakdowns during vacation abroad can be particularly distressful; here are some tips to navigate this unfamiliar territory of breakdown in another land successfully: research local breakdown services and emergency helplines beforehand, familiarize yourself with local driving regulations and insurance requirements, and consider purchasing travel insurance coverage that includes breakdown assistance coverage to minimize stress during an otherwise smooth experience! Planning these items ahead will ease tension and ensure a more relaxing journey!
Conclusion
Family support during car breakdowns cannot be underemphasized. Remain calm, communicate effectively, and offer comfort to members of your family as necessary! Should any challenges arise that need professional intervention, immediately, contact an auto specialist, so we can tackle these together!
Sex trafficking is a devastating form of exploitation that affects millions of people around the world. It involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to lure individuals (mainly younger aged kids) to engage in sex acts, often against their will. The impact of sex trafficking on mental health can be mentally traumatic and long-lasting. […]
This year I turn 60 and have been thinking about who I am today. My life is not fulfilling, fun, independent and the only thing to get me to laugh is funny animal videos.
My life at 38 years old was vibrant, daring, and at the top of my career, and traveling the world. Life gets smaller for most as they age, for me, it’s life changes and my chronic illnesses.
I’m in the house all day, some days feeling angry.
The last time I saw my Therapist, I shared a story about trying to help my ex-husband after his death. My husband didn’t understand why I would get involved but I wanted to make sure his wishes were kept. I ask her why did I do that when I hadn’t talked to him in over 20 years?
Her answer was simple, that’s the type of person you are, you want what is right for others. She also reminded me of the other great qualities I have. To name a few.
Empathy
Strength
Want to help people
Smart
Leader
Compassionate
I get caught up in life and our issues we forget what’s on the inside of us, who we really are. It’s extremely important we reflect on the type of person we are to better understand why we make the decisions we do and once thought is given to the traits your confidence may grow.
May is recognized each year as National Arthritis Awareness Month. Arthritis is a disease that impacts more than 50 million Americans, making it the number one cause of disability in the country. That means 1 in every 5 adults, 300,000 children, and countless families are affected by arthritis. These numbers are only going to keep growing—unless we take a stand.
Arthritis by the Numbers:
Nearly 53 million adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis; that number is expected to grow to 67 million by 2030.
Almost 300,000 babies, kids and teens have arthritis or a rheumatic condition.
Arthritis is the nation’s No. 1 cause of disability.
Working-age men and women (ages 18 to 64) with arthritis are less likely to be employed than those of the same age without arthritis.
1/3 of working-age people with arthritis have limitations in their ability to work, the type of work they can do or whether they can work part time or full time.
People with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis –two major kinds of arthritis – miss a combined 172 million workdays every year.
Arthritis and related conditions account for more than $156 billion annually in lost wages and medical expenses.
There are nearly 1 million hospitalizations each year due to arthritis.
57% of adults with heart disease have arthritis.
52% of adults with diabetes have arthritis.
44% of adults with high blood pressure have arthritis.
36% of adults who are obese have arthritis.
1/3 of adults with arthritis age 45 and older have either anxiety or depression.
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight a new blogger, Holistic Health Talks.
Hello! I’m Jenna Lee, an Oily Gal that is all about natural skincare, holistic health, essential oils, and fun DIY recipes! I created HolisticHealthTalks.com to share alternative health topics and upcoming health talks!
Please check out her site, there is si much to offer.
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