Scented Galore😍 : Relaxation Time

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Vanilla and Honey Ice Cream Source: https://pin.it/qkagxye4lrryhr

Hi welcome, unfortunately I won’t be talking about ice cream even though they are so nice to eat😍 but however, this post is for those who like scented products or are interested in trying them soon..

Scented products can really bring you into the moment, especially when you can smell the flavour of the item. Some people use them for decoration, other use it for its benefits. It has the potential to bring the environment to life with its beautiful scent. It also puts you in the present, as you become aware of the smell so therefore your mind stays in the now. You’re not going to wander off thinking about other unnecessary things because you’re concentrating on enjoying it. To add to the atmosphere, play music in the background for a well – rounded experience or preferably, in silent room just to ease your thoughts. Let it give you that feel good feeling, remain open-minded and let go all the possibilities that occur in your mind💬💡

In this post, I’ll be focussing more closely on scented candles, with a brief touch of air fresheners.. 

The link below provides a detailed explanation of benefits found for the use of scented candles:

Scented Candle Benefits (Aromatherapy)

I’ve been trying them out for a while now, because I like nice smells and it creates an intimate environment. However, since starting my experience with them, I’ve come to find that not all of them do their required job. Sometimes it’s hard to find a product which actually does what it says on the packaging. Rather, it merely just produces non-existent fumes. You can test out many different brands to finally figure out the right one. That’s when you get the “YES FINALLY”moment!💆🏾😍.

Yankee candles (£10-20, depending on what retailer you get it from) are a popular brand that sells scented candles, but what I’ve found is Tesco produce good quality ones (I could be being biased but I can only speak from a trial and error testing). They cost around £3.50 and burn for 50 hours. It is not always the expensive products that provide the best outcome. You have to mix and match to see which ones are good. Experiment with different brands and see what caters to your taste. For example, Tesco’s Vanilla and Honey candle has subtle but there’s a strong warmth to it, it’s very easy on the nose. I tend to get excited to be in its presence for the pleasant joy it brings. As, it will relax you after coming home from a long day, to help you unwind for the evening before bed. It’s not all the time you can do exciting things to activate your senses, so this way provides an alternative method for a better calming effect. It makes your room smell like a candy shop. Also, as it burns, the oil gathers together reinforcing the strength of the scent.🍯🍯

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Relaxation time is important Source: http://www.getholistichealth.com/4617/the-health-benefits-of-relaxation/

Another source of aromatherapy is automatic air fresheners. They are usually battery-powered or you have to plug them into socket, depending on your preference. They also give you x amount of settings to evenly spread out the sprays each day for more effect. It can be startling if you don’t expect it to go off, but nevertheless the fragrance makes up for the shock effect. (You can hear it being pressed out of the container, this can catch you off guard if you weren’t aware of it coming) It gives that “ahhh mmm” moment in your head as you soak it in. One product recommended for use is the battery-powered AirWicks automatic freshener. It follows the routine I described above and you are able to buy refills of different fragrances. You can put it on a desk, window sills or anywhere that works for you, it’s only little so you can slot it somewhere🌸🌺🌷.

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Let go and trust God (or your higher power) Source: passionpassport on Instagram

Feel free to share your experiences and/or your relaxation routine below in the comments!

For Christians, here says what the Bible says about rest and it’s importance – Rest and Relaxation – The Bible

Thank you for taking time to read this post and enjoy the rest of your day 💃🏾

Chanda Demi West

Sociology Theory: The Lightbulb Effect x Consumption in Society 🔅💡💬

Close up glowing vintage light bulb. Isolated on black backgroun
#THELIGHTBULBEFFECT source: http://www.theenergycollective.com/enerquire/2411044/future-business-model-energy-utilities-u-s-quo-vadis

The lightbulb effect is a term to describe the construction of an idea. When the idea lights up, you take a mental note and/or write it down. It follows the same model of the energy light circuit. For example, when the brain is in the process of making a new concept. The activity in the brain replicates the energy flowing round the circuit, once you’ve hit the on switch. In real life, the switch can be found on your wall. Whereas, in this theory, the switch becomes active once it has been activated by external sources, imagination or a combination of both, to start the process. Once the idea has been established, that’s when you “switch off”.. not entirely but just that part of the effect.

(Back into relaxed mode)

Last night, I had a thought which came to mind surprisingly around 00:19 and I’m going to share it…

It seems consumption is at a high now in today’s society. Everywhere we go, we are being bombarded with stuff to buy. I think technology has made it easier for the consumer society to increase, as online shopping has become more prominent than ever. You’re receiving offers and deals directly to your mobile via emails or notifications. As well as, on TV adverts, the internet, magazines. Welcome to the age of the smart phone!. Moreover remember, when Instagram was picture platform, it still is but it is becoming the biggest online store. Twitter not so much, people still use it to express their ‘thoughts’. There’s no doubt that social media has helped businesses; it allows them to reach a bigger audience, as oppose to being confined to a shop on the high street. However it does raise the question, will the number of shops decline as the years go on and will this mean social media shopping will continue to grow increasingly?

Furthermore, think about the idea that society is moving towards a place where most people are starting their own businesses. The years will go on and the big corporations will be decrease, because the small businesses will eventually take over. This would mean everyone will be supporting each other, rather than competing for sales. Everything will be interconnected, so there will be no need for it. Already now, you see people doing that. For example, it is easier to tag the company in your own post, benefitting both the company and the consumer. It promotes brand awareness online to reach masses. As, the individual influences others’ to purchase the goods, depending on how well it suits the person (I think then people will be more inclined to buy). 

In conclusion, I think it would be intriguing to follow the trends into the future, through part participation part observation and see what happens in the world around us (you can’t always have everything or want everything, sometimes you have to take a back seat LOL) . 

“A thought is expression so I’ll write it down” …

I’ll probably update this blog or do a follow-up to it.

Please do feel welcome to share your thoughts on this topic below, or you can find me on social media: chandademi and hashtag #TheLightbulbEffect with your tweet/post.

I hope you enjoy the rest of your day 🙂

Chanda Demi West

#Yogacise🏃🏾‍♀️👯

https://i.pinimg.com/736x/64/5e/99/645e99dc9da33fe14a1a2028d6a0141b--workout-routines-excercise-motivation-quotes.jpg
#StayRelaxed – Source: Pinterest

I know from the title, you’re probably thinking “what the hell is Yogacise?”. I came up with the word not long ago, because it was the most useful way to describe the blend between practicing Yoga and doing fitness regimes in one session.

Yogacise is more of a calm version of a full blown workout session. You take the favourite stretches/poses you enjoy from Yoga and combine it with techniques you do in the gym/or at home. You can getting your body moving anywhere: at home, at work, in the gym, even when you’re walking on road. You’re still giving your body the exercise it needs on a regular basis. Think about it, we’re doing without even realising it, because it has already been integrated into our daily lives.

I’m not really a hardcore fitness fan, I simply enjoy keeping myself in shape. Also, I imagine for girls who want to keep themselves looking fit. It can be scary seeing others going HAM and thinking “omg how do they do that, I can’t do that”. Don’t look at it that way, rather observe what they are doing and see how you start to incorporate it into your own routine; or at least attempt to try and see if you can do it. Start small, then build as you go.. you won’t know unless you try 😉 (you can even do it in your own home, where no one can see you: depending on your comfort levels). <<<<
doing what works for you!

Anyways this was just a short post for today.. enjoy the rest of your day 💆🏾🏃🏾‍♀️💃🏾

Feel free to leave a comment or share this post using the buttons below 🙂

ChandaDemi West

Self – Care Service Directory💋💆🏾👩‍❤️‍💋‍👩

https://www.theodysseyonline.com/learning-self-care-from-mother-earth
http://www.theodysseyonline.com/learning-self-care-from-mother-earth

*ring ring*

Welcome to self-care service hotline🙌🏾

In today’s world, finding time for yourself can be difficult. Especially if you work full/part-time or have children, you can’t always fit in me-time. Spending time with yourself is important. It allows you to restore balance in life, make your body feel nice and to keep your mind quiet. Remember this internal dialogue  “Once you enter *insert your name here* ‘s world, everything else goes away ☁️”.

self care
The brainstorm of attributes. (Source: Google).

 

ine. For example, if you always go somewhere to do something, try doing it for yourself at home. You will feel good for being able to provide for your own needs, without needing to rely on someone else to fulfill it for you🥘💅🏾

Don’t be afraid to try out new things. You’ve been using the same product for a while, one day change it. This will add excitement into your day, as you anticipate the feeling this new change will bring. Spontaneous behaviour can get those endorphins buzzing 😂👩🏾‍🎨😍

Walks/Strolls. Stepping outside for even a brief moment allows you to feel and breathe in ‘fresh air’. You may come across stuff you weren’t aware of on your journeys. It’s a mild form of exercise too. You’re still working the full body. It helps you remain present. Furthermore, you can invest in home gym equipment, so you can be comfortable💪🏾👣

Massage – take time to get to know how your body feels; run your palms against your thighs/arms or your favourite body part. You’ll gain a connection to your body sensations. Note: if it feels awkward, you can go to a professional.💆🏾

Silence – reconnect back to yourself by just sitting and laying in silence. Focus inwards as you can hear what’s going on around you. Write down your thoughts, let it go on and explore what you’ve written. The emotions to your thoughts will become reality as you can see it in front of you. Don’t be discouraged if it’s painful *in and out breathing motion*. You may also have happy ones too.🖊📝

Soft materials – Blanket, comfy clothes, bedroom accessories.. anything soft you want. It makes you feel cosy and wrapped up in warmth. Take time to indulge in the moment. You’ll find yourself feeling like a baby again. Except you’re grown now, so you understand that you’re taking care of the child self within you. 🐻🙈

YES/NO – Learn how to use these terms appropriately. You can’t do everything and you are not expected to it either. Don’t be afraid to say no, if you do not want to do something. You are not obliged by anyone, but that doesn’t mean you can’t give if and when you want to. There are limits, reinforce them. Remember you are in control and have rights. You may feel guilty at first, but that’s just an adjustment. Keep on exercising it until you’re comfortable❌⭕️.

Healthy/Unhealthy patterns – Identify what is and isn’t working for you, thought wise, in life or in general. See if you can tackle them in a healthy way to overcome them. For example, if you rely on something which is unhealthy, replace it with something that gives you positive benefits. In my last blog post, I gave a couple of tips ( check it out) 🔅❕

Animals– spending time or looking at animals can take your mind of things; for those moments you spend observing or playing with them. There’s something soothing about it.

Last but not least, maintenance – once you have established what works for you, make a conscious effort to continue doing it. Don’t worry about slacking sometimes, as long you remember to pick it up again, that’s all that matters. It’s the thought that provokes action.🗣🏃🏾‍♀️🏃🏾‍♀️

TWO Bonus points: Music – listen to it through headphones, in your car, in your bedroom and get lost in the music. Put on your favourite tracks and dance 💃🏾. It will release good feels, so you’ll get pumped up or easily relaxed by your choice of genre. 🔊🎶

  • COOKING – making a nice meal for yourself can relieve you of distractions. Explore with the ingredients in your kitchen. You don’t need to go all out, just mix and match and see what you come up with. The fun is in the preparation, you’ll be satisfied when you eat it, knowing you made this, without no recipe or assistance #GIRLPOWER 

What do you like doing as a part of your s
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Thank you for takin
meCh


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Scattering Skies🌏☁️🌈

Quick Capture – Sunset
I decided to find out why and how the sky manages to change colour. I think that’s what’s so attractive about it. Usually it’s normally blue, so when there’s a slight deviation from the norm; it’s noticeable. It’s not something you see all the time, so when it does occur. It is eye catching, you want to stop everything you’re doing just to capture the moment, before it goes away. The sky is forever renewing itself, so it’s calming to pay attention to it.

Scattering is the term used to describe this effect the sky creates-

Scattering Skies – Science Daily

On http://www.sciencedaily.com , Ackerman says “Because the sun is low on the horizon, sunlight passes through more air at sunset and sunrise than during the day, when the sun is higher in the sky. More atmosphere means more molecules to scatter the violet and blue light away from your eyes. If the path is long enough, all of the blue and violet light scatters out of your line of sight. The other colors continue on their way to your eyes. This is why sunsets are often yellow, orange, and red.”

Essentially, giving where the height of the sun is that day and the intensity of the air. This determines how much sunlight is passed through. It provides more chance, in the atmosphere to produce a variety of colours; if the molecules are able to travel long distance. So therefore, it’s a combination of many factors working together to create an eye-catching end product for certain parts of the world to see.

Next time you’re outside while this happens, don’t forget to stop and stare at this piece of art👩🏾‍🎨

That’s one science fact learnt for today.

Feel free to leave a comment or share this post 🌞

Chanda D

#EverydayTips 🔖📝🌏

 

https://steemit.com/writing/@dragonslayer109/top-tips-thursday-storytelling
Source: http://www.steemit.com via Google

I’m back again with a short post this Sunday, don’t want to keep you on this page for too long LOL.

I’ll be sharing a couple of tips I’ve discovered over these past couple of weeks. Also, for future reference, I’ll keep it updated whenever new ones come to mind.

Let’s get started..

  • Travel Pillow: most people use travel pillows, when traveling on holiday or long distances. I’ve found using a travel pillow whilst sleeping normally in bed is beneficial. It props your head up, allowing your airways to be clear making it easier to breathe. It also helps support neck issues or back pain, as one part is protected; making it easier for the rest of your body to function.
  • Powdered Spices: If you have a cold/temporary flu or have respiratory issues such as rhinitis or with your sinuses. It can help relieve the symptoms by encouraging you to sneeze, when your nose comes into contact with it. Obviously, you’re not going to sneeze into the food, because that would be unhygienic. Take yourself aside when you feel the urge coming on and restore your senses.
  • Exercise/Quiet Time: you don’t need to be a fitness fanatic or crazy about sports/going gym, but taking time out of your day just to stretch or focus on your body can make you feel better. You’re paying attention to what your body’s wants and needs are, so therefore you can develop a better relationship with it. You become aware when it’s time to relax and just let yourself be.
  • Activities: Everyone has their own activities they like doing, whether it’s doing make up, playing football, cooking or playing music. Or even praying/meditating. When you enjoy doing your specific activity, you tend to forget about everything else and immerse yourself in that one thing. It makes you feel good and so it should! It makes you present in the moment. Also, if it involves other people, the better.

Thank you for reading this post and feel free to leave a comment 🙂

Chanda D

 

 

Sunshine vs. Sunset.. How The Two Met 🌞🍂🍁

When you see the sun in the morning, it’s good to take advantage of the weather, to capture photographs. This is because the strong lighting coming from sky, helps boost the quality of the image.

It’s also a relaxing activity to do, as your mind is focussed, whilst soaking in the rays. Two-in-one 😅😉

I took some photographs earlier and here are my favourite ones:

Take one
Take 2
Take 3
Take 4

I hope you enjoyed viewing them 🙂
Chanda D

The Calm Before The Storm 🌲🍂🍁

The Fallen Orange

What about if there is no storm? It’s Autumn, the leaves have fallen.

The trees have time to rest before it’s time to grow again.

I previously wrote about changes, now it’s further on in the year.. close to Christmas.

The calm could just be a resting period for you to find your peace.

A realisation there is you without everything you do or own.

A restoration place for you to relax and appreciate life for what it is.

A packed out schedule doesn’t always equal a fulfilling one.

Sometimes take time out and see how things are run.

Sitting at home doing nothing is still an activity to a thinking one.

Chanda D

 

 

Three In A Different Light💡🍹🍓🕯

Photography is one of the only activities that stills the mind. I think that’s because you get into the zone trying to capture the best shot you can. It takes focus and precision, especially when concentrating on  the main subject. 

First three attempts at object photography:




Taken and edited by me

Chanda D 

Feel free to leave a comment or share the post 🙂

#SkincareRoutine: The Charcoal Facial Test💁🏾💅🏾🤳🏾


Hello,

Welcome, I’ll be talking about my experience with Beauty Formulas’ Activated detox cleanser and facial scrub.

I’ve been hearing about charcoal based products for a while now. It’s been advertised on various outlets, so I decided to satisfy my curiosity. I researched checking out other blogs/platforms and saw it had mainly recieved positive reviews, so this encouraged me to see what all the hype was about.

Likewise, you go into stores like PAKS, Superdrug or Boots and it’s hard not to resist wanting to browse and see what they have to offer. Unless you know what you want, then you’ll be in and out to do your business and go home.

Here are some qualities activated charcoal has:

  • all-natural ingredient (comes from planet Earth, it’s not a man made substance)
  • anti-bacterial/fungal properties (gets rid of unwanted/excess dirt)
  • unclogs pores (no blackheads and one layer finish)
  • deals with oily skin (it maintains a balance and doesn’t leave you looking dry)
  • smooth exfoliator (you can feel the particles working against your skin, massage it in gently)

Activated Charcoal Qualities

It is recommended to prepare and complete all skincare routines:

Step 1: starting with a slightly wet surface (preferably damp)

Step 2: applying the product to your face

Step 3: using the necessary toner, followed by your selected lotions/creams/serums etc.

Overall, I concluded the facial scrub was better than the detox cleanser. The three reasons for this statement are:


Firstly, the texture is thicker, so it resembles massaging cream in your face. You can work with that type of motion, using your hands. You’ll find the detox cleanser slips through your fingers.

Secondly, it makes your skin feeling cleaner and appear more radiant. If you use a toner, you’ll realise there is hardly any residue on the cotton wool pad. Rather, the detox cleanser is more of just one quick wash. In contrast, the toner, in this circumstance, will work to complete the jobs the cleanser didn’t do.

Now on to my last point, it’s less messier to use. Therefore, you’ll need a smaller amount and it will save you time (especially in the morning if you’ve got a busy work schedule) and money. Whereas, the detox cleanser will have you using more, so you’ll be expected to go back and keep on purchasing to make up for the losses.

The Beauty Formula range is priced from £1.99 – £3.00 in established retailers.

Feel free to leave a comment/questions or share this article using the buttons below.

Thank you for your time 🙂

Chanda D