
A resource for those seeking information on organizing and transforming spaces.
5 Journaling Tips for Happiness and Mental Wellbeing
Discover the power of journaling for mental wellbeing. Explore how journaling can alleviate distress, boost happiness, and improve relationships.
This post was developed via a partnership with BetterHelp. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.
Home is more than just a place to live. It’s the roots of our tree. From home, everything grows outward. In this way, our home touches every aspect of our lives.
When we think about creating a safe and comfortable home, we may think about physical aspects. We want a strong structure to protect us and all the amenities that make our lives easier. But what about the ways our home can tend to our psychological and emotional well-being?
Wellness and self-care practices like journaling may improve our mental health. Here are some tips to try it yourself.
Journaling Through Distress
Before examining the happiness-boosting benefits of journaling, it may help to understand that the practice can also help those feeling low. Most desire happiness. However, sometimes happiness seems like a distant concept.
Luckily, there is some interesting evidence that supports the possible benefits of journaling in troubling times.
According to a 2006 study of just under 100 young adults, journaling may reduce distress. Participants spent 15 minutes journaling or drawing twice over a week. They wrote about a stressful event or their plans for the day.
The journaling participants reported a greater reduction in depression, anxiety, and hostility. This was most pronounced for those who felt distressed before journaling. From these findings, it appears that journaling may soothe discomfort.
Interestingly, 80% of those studied had seldom journaled about their feelings. Only 61% said they were comfortable with the concept. So, even if you've never written a journal before, you could benefit!
1. Journal Your Gratitude
Another potentially beneficial journaling idea is to record gratitude. This practice may be best at the end of the day. Spend a few minutes writing down 3-5 things you're thankful for.
Write as little or as much as you like. The point is to focus on things that feel good.
According to research by Dr. Robert A. Emmons and Michael McCullough, people who kept a gratitude journal were 25% happier.
2. Discover Your Flow
Journaling can also help you explore other happiness-boosting activities. You can use your journal to access The Flow.
Researcher Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi describes The Flow State as a time we are fully engaged in something. When the mind is occupied, the activity feels rewarding, and the task is easy, it may bring the feeling of flow. It's a little like autopilot but your mind is focused on something that keeps other thoughts at bay.
Accessing this state may help stress fade away. Some people reported a lasting feeling of happiness and clarity long after the activity ends. There may be satisfaction in completing a simple task and giving the mind a break.
3. Evaluate Your Social Circle
Journaling can also help people evaluate their lives. In this example, their social circle.
Do you ever stop to think about the people you associate with? Are they having an affect on you?
They say birds of a feather flock together, and there may be some evidence to support how your social group impacts your life.
List the 3 people you spend the most time with in your journal. Do you admire them? List some qualities they possess next to their name. Are these things you'd like to embody or acquire?
The aforementioned study suggests that people are greatly influenced by their social circle. So, being around happy people may improve your mood.
4. Try Some Expressive Writing
If you're experiencing some sticky or intrusive thoughts, journaling may help you release them. It might be worth trying a specific writing approach to let things go.
If you've had a bad feeling experience and keep running over it in your mind, writing it down may help. Putting these cyclical thoughts down on paper can help restore clarity, peace, and contentment.
The research around this tactic involves something called expressive writing. That is defined as a period of relaxed writing for 15-20 minutes a day for 3-5 consecutive days. Prioritize writing about emotions related to an event.
Write about the same event or a different one each day.
Benefits of Expressive Writing
When it comes to enhancing well-being, expressive writing has been shown to reduce signs of unhappiness. According to the BetterHelp blog, expressive writing may promote a variety of mental and physicial benefits.
This type of journaling may soothe anxiety and depression. It may improve immune functioning, reduce physical stress, and enhance cognitive functioning as well.
Expressive writing may even help reduce fear and anxiety. THis may be because it helps label and identify feelings and thoughts. Some people may feel more satisfied and able to move on when they understand a situation.
Expressive writing can also help some people gain new perspectives on challenging situations. This could bring insights and novel solutions.
5. List Positive Aspects
Focusing on positive emotions can also feel good. Making lists of positive aspects is a bit like gratitude journaling. It differs because it can truly be as simple as listing words that feel good.
You can list pleasurable things about your life, your friends and family, or even things you'd love to have. You can also try listing positive things about people you don’t like so much but have to interact with.
The goal is to focus on appreciation as a way to shift your mood from negative to positive! You may find yourself looking for more things to appreciate as you live your life.
This kind of trained attention or mindfulness can become a habit.
Get Cozy And Get Writing
Can you imagine yourself spending just 15 minutes a day writing in your journal?
You can establish a new wellness practice or routine in your home with small daily steps. If you’d like to try any of the journaling tips above, pick a time and place and get writing!
It may take a few days to get the hang of it but you might find that you soon look forward to the task.
Journaling in a special spot in your home might be an even bigger boost. Feeling appreciation for the setting could help inspire you.
Building Your Home Library: A Guide to Beauty and Functionality
Transform your home with a beautiful and functional library! Learn how to curate the perfect collection and set up your space for reading bliss.
This post was developed via a partnership with BetterHelp. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.
Transforming a room in your home into a beautiful and functional library is a dream for many book lovers. You may be already an avid reader. Maybe you love the cozy look and feel of a dedicated workspace. Or, maybe like so many people, you've set a goal to read more this year.
Whatever reason you're considering building a home library, the project can be fun and exciting.
Designing a personal library can add both aesthetic appeal and practicality to your living space. In this guide, we'll explore the steps to building the perfect home library. How can you conceptualize the space? What books should you choose?
Creating A Space For Your Home Library
The first step in building your home library is to choose a space for it. Consider the layout and size of the room to start. It's also wise to consider natural light sources and room for comfortable seating options.
Ideally, you'll also want a quiet area with ample shelving for your book collection. Imagine yourself curling up with a good book. Can you visualize the space?
If your home is small don't worry. You can transform even a small corner or alcove into a charming reading nook. All it takes is the right furniture and decor.
The easiest way to conceptualize your new library is to consult the experts. A consultation with a home improvement company removes the guesswork. Skilled contractors can guide you and handle all details and construction.
Incorporating Personal Touches: Adding Character to Your Home Library
Once the space is set, it's time for personal touches and decorative elements. Embrace your unique style and interests as you curate the space to reflect your personality. Consider displaying cherished artwork, family heirlooms, or mementos collected from travels. This can evoke special memories and add warmth to the room. It adds visual interest and makes your library eclectic!
If you have a creative flair, some DIY projects can personalize the space further. Craft custom bookends, create gallery walls featuring favorite photographs or prints, or repurpose vintage furniture pieces.
These kinds of projects take time, but the personal touches are often worth it. They can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your home library but also create a space that feels deeply meaningful and inviting.
Lighting Considerations for Home Libraries
Choosing the right lighting for your home library is crucial to create an inviting and functional reading environment.
It's smart to include a mix of ambient, task, and accent lighting. This can enhance the overall atmosphere while providing the light you need to prevent eye strain.
Ambient lighting like overhead fixtures or wall sconces contribute to the room's overall brightness. Dimmer switches to adjust the light levels can be a great library option.
Task lighting options include adjustable floor or table lamps. These additions are essential for focused reading and studying. Position task lights strategically. They work best near seating areas or over reading nooks where they can minimize glare and shadows.
In addition to functionality, lighting also creates the mood and aesthetics of your home library. Opt for fixtures with warm color temperatures to create a cozy and inviting ambiance. Statement lighting fixtures like chandeliers or pendant lights, add visual interest. These are small ways to elevate the design of the space.
Natural lighting is also important. Maximize natural light with window treatments that allow for ample sunlight. The right window coverings can also reduce glare on screens or reflective surfaces. Lastly, experiment with lighting placements and layers to achieve the perfect balance.
Populating Your Library With Books
Once you've established your library space, it's time for the books. But where do you begin? The key is to curate a collection that reflects your interests, passions, and values. Think about the types of books you love to read, in genres or topics that resonate with you. The goal is to create a diverse and well-rounded collection that will keep you engaged and inspired for years to come.
Your books can also become conversation starters when guests visit. Home libraries are wonderful places to entertain.
Choosing Your Titles
When selecting books for your home library, it's important to strike a balance between pleasure and utility. It's tempting to fill your shelves with beloved classics and bestsellers. However, pay attention to the value of reference books, self-help guides, and other practical resources.
Consider the specific needs and interests of your household. Choose entertaining books and some that serve a purpose.
Resources And Guides
In addition to pleasure reading, consider incorporating books that serve a purpose. From home improvement guides to cookbooks to legal reference materials, countless books can provide practical knowledge and assistance in various areas.
Think about the specific challenges and responsibilities you face in your daily life. What kinds of books might help you navigate these situations with confidence and ease?
Consider Including Family Law Books:
Having family law books in your reference library can be useful. You may reach for them when legal issues arise. Family law relates to more than just marriage. They can help you properly plan for your family's future.
Having access to reliable legal resources can provide peace of mind and ensure that you're well-informed about your rights and options.
Consider Including Psychology Books
You may also want a few psychology titles in your library. Psychology books can offer valuable insights into human behavior, emotions, and relationships.
Whether you're interested in improving your mental health, understanding the dynamics of interpersonal relationships, or exploring the complexities of the human mind, psychology books can enrich your life and deepen your understanding of yourself and others.
Books on psychology or therapy can help support you through life’s challenging times.
Books For Pleasure
To identify books that bring you joy, take some time to reflect on your favorite hobbies, pastimes, and experiences. What activities make you feel most alive and engaged?
Do you enjoy exploring new worlds through fiction? Are you drawn to fascinating historical events? If you're an art buff or a collector, books on these topics may belong on your shelves. Make a list of the things that truly inspire and delight you. Then, seek out books that align with these interests and passions. That's a good strategy to build the enjoyable half of your library collection.
Build And Enjoy A New Home Library
Building a beautiful and functional home library is a rewarding project. It can enhance your living space and enrich your life in countless ways.
With a plan and maybe a little help from contractors, your dream becomes reality. Create a personal sanctuary where you can relax, unwind, and explore the world of literature and knowledge.
4 Potential Benefits Of Cold Therapy & Incorporating It At Home
Why would I take a cold shower!? Learn about the potential benefits of cold therapy and how to do it at home.
This post was developed via a partnership with BetterHelp. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.
Most people are looking for ways to stay warm at home during the winter. However, some adventurous souls are taking the plunge... literally.
Cold therapy is a popular wellness trend. A myriad of benefits for physical and mental health are attributed to this form of mild stress. Claims include pain reduction, mood improvement, and even resiliency.
How can you separate fact from fiction and begin incorporating this practice into your wellness routine?
Learn about cold therapy and some options you can use at home.
Types of Cold Therapy
There are a variety of ways to use cold in a therapeutic way. They range in severity and although each causes some discomfort, the benefits might be worth it.
The research is promising and popular. Ironically, cold therapy is a hot topic among both researchers and wellness fans.
Ice Baths/Cold Water Immersion
Ice baths or cold water immersion involves getting into a vessel full of icy water. People who engage in this type of cold therapy could have certain goals in mind. They may want to reduce physical inflammation. Participants may be curious about relieving sore muscles. Some people even think the cold might help their fatigue.
There is also intrigue around the concept of potentially creating so-called brown fat. According to a study by the University of California, San Francisco, brown fat is more metabolically active. Furthermore, the study suggests that cold temperatures activate this kind of fat.
Cold exposure may have an effect on amino acid behavior as well. The UCSF study also states, ''The findings suggest that boosting SLC25A44 activity, thereby enhancing BCAA utilization, may be a promising strategy for removing excess BCAAs from the bloodstream and potentially treating conditions such as obesity and diabetes.''
Cold Water Showers
Simply taking a cold shower for several minutes is another popular cold therapy method. It doesn't get much easier than this methodology. Although, tolerating the icy stream is another story.
Fans of cold showers hope they'll experience invigoration and improve circulation. Some report increased mental clarity as well.
Cold therapy like cold showers may also improve immune function and mood.
Understanding Hormetic Stress
Before diving into cold therapy, it's helpful to understand the concept of hormetic stress.
Hormesis is an adaptive response the body goes through during stress exposure. Deliberately using hormesis as a tool has become popular with the functional health and biohacking community.
Hormesis is sometimes also called preconditioning, pretreatment, cross tolerance, and rapid stress hardening.
According to a study published on Science Direct, most research has been conducted on animals. Additionally, the study reveals that hormesis involves antioxidant enzymes and oxidative stress protection.
There is a popular theory that deliberate exposure to hormetic stress can create a stronger physical system.
Potential Health Benefits
Cold therapy offers a range of health benefits that are still under study. A few are age old, dating back to our grandmothers suggesting that bag of frozen peas for our bruised knee.
Others are a bit more cutting-edge.
Some of the current health indications and claims include cold's beneficial effect on pain. The cold may reduce swelling and improve circulation as well. Generally, most fans of cold exposure believe in a general, overall positive effect.
The Science Behind Cold Therapy: 4 Potential Benefits
Let's take a closer look at some of the science behind cold therapy claims. We'll also provide the published research behind the claims.
Vasoconstriction
Cold temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing inflammation and swelling in injured tissues. If you've ever applied a cold pack to an injury, you may have experienced this effect.
Reduced Oxidative Stress Markers
Cold water immersion was shown to reduce oxidative stress markers in a study published in The International Journal of Circumpolar Health.
Numbing Effects
Cold exposure numbs nerve endings. This can lead to a temporary reduction in pain. This exposure can be useful in treating acute injuries or soreness.
Thermogenesis
Exposure to cold temperatures stimulates thermogenesis. This may enhance circulation and tissue recovery. It also creates an increase in metabolic ean increase in metabolic energy expenditurenditure.
Research and Evidence
Although there appear to be numerous studies on cold therapy, it is not quite a settled science. The research is still emerging, although promising.
It is an exciting field to watch as it develops. Who minds some shivering if a little cold exposure can improve our health.
Enjoying Cold Therapy at Home
Some people travel outside the home to facilities that offer cold therapy. While it can be good to dedicate yourself to a routine around health, this does create an obstacle. For this reason and many others, some people want at-home options.
The good news is that it can be easier to practice cold therapy at home than to utilize other forms of stress therapy like saunas.
Here are some DIY cold therapy options.
Cold Plunges
There are a few ways to take a cold plunge at home. The easiest may be to fill your bathtub up with ice and hop in!
Having the right kind of bathtub can help this practice. It may also be wise to take safety precautions like having non slip bath mats in place.
There are also a variety of barrels and large buckets that allow full or partial immersion. These do require more space but can be more convenient.
Cold Showers
Luckily, you can easily enjoy cold therapy by turning the shower down. You don't have to shiver the entire time. Some cold shower proponents suggest starting with 30 seconds and working up to a minute or two of exposure.
It's important to go slowly and follow your intuition and physical responses. This is true for all the methods mentioned here.
Ice Water Face Plunges
If you aren't ready for the shower or ice bucket, you might try submerging your face into a bowl of icy water. This can be a quick and easy way to avail yourself of the benefits of hormetic stress. It's also a tactic to work up to tolerating that cold shower.
Considerations Before Starting
Only you and your healthcare provider know if cold therapy is safe or right for you. Always consult a professional before engaging in stressful behaviors.
Your medical history is unique and what is safe for others may not be for you. This is why personalized advice is always best in these matters.
The Essential Bathroom Inventory Checklist For Hosts
The journey to a memorable guest experience begins with a bedroom and a bathroom ambiance. Every Airbnb host knows the key to happy guests is a stocked home and a flawless bathroom.
We partnered with a home design company for this post. The opinions in the post are honest. All reviews and opinions expressed in this post are based on our personal views. We are excited because we know you will love it.
The journey to a memorable guest experience begins with a bedroom and a bathroom ambiance. Every Airbnb host knows the key to happy guests is a stocked home and a flawless bathroom.
Learn about the bathroom essentials rental hosts must provide for a more fulfilling guest experience. This article covers the bathroom essentials checklist, including cleaning supplies and waste management.
So, read the ultimate guide for every Airbnb host just starting and say hello to superb guest experiences!
Bath Towels & Linens
Here is a list of bathtub accessories Airbnb hosts should provide for a refined guest experience.
1. Bath Towels:
Good-quality towels efficiently wick away moisture from the skin after the shower. Bath towels with antimicrobial features combat unpleasant odors, bacteria, and mildew, ensuring your guests maintain cleanliness and health throughout their stay.
Don’t forget to try Sferra bath sheet. These Turkish bath towel sets are designed to keep guests comfortable after a bath.
2. Face Towels:
Face towels are necessary bathroom essentials in a vacation rental home, providing guests with a dedicated solution for refreshing faces. These also promote cleanliness and incite a positive guest experience.
3. Beach & Pool Towels:
If your property is close to a beach or recreational area, offer beach and pool towels for your guests. These high-quality towels are perfect for drying off after a swim in the ocean. Providing top-notch beach and pool towels at your Airbnb can impact guests' experience.
4. Bath Slippers:
Bath slippers offer a secure, anti-slip solution for guests on wet bathroom floors, ensuring comfort and cleanliness.
5. Hand Towels:
Hand towels can quickly absorb excess water from the hands and let your guests dry off their hands after washing. Hand towels have high utility in the kitchen and bathroom to enhance hygiene. For premium hand towels, look no further than Turkish hand towels for bathroom. They are soft, lightweight, durable, and perfectly wick away moisture from the skin.
Toiletries
Some of the must-have countertop bathroom accessories include
1. Shampoo & Conditioner:
Shampoo cleanses hair and scalp, providing a lighter and voluminous feel, while conditioner nourishes and smoothens hair strands, offering a silky texture. These bathroom essentials revitalize guests' hair at your short-term rental, washing away accumulated dirt and oil after a day of adventure.
Once you've stocked up on enough shampoo and conditioner bottles for your rental homes, opt for refill packets to minimize environmental impact by reducing the use of single-use plastic.
2. Bar Soap & Body Wash:
Bar soap and body wash are essential for cleansing the body. Bar soap is solid and keeps the skin clean, while body wash, like Dove nourishing milk body wash, is a liquid that gently cleanses and moisturizes all skin types, providing a wholesome bathing experience.
3. Body lotion:
Let your guests pamper themselves with a premium body lotion. It moisturizes & rejuvenates their skin, leaving them feeling refreshed throughout their stay.
4. Hand lotion:
Pamper your guests with a high-quality hand lotion to ensure clean and hygienic hands throughout their stay.
5. Tissues:
Tissues are must-have bathroom essentials at every vacation rental home. From wiping hands to cleaning spills and everything in between, tissues enhance overall hygiene for a refined guest experience.
6. Makeup Remover:
Provide a makeup remover in your rental home to let guests easily cleanse their skin, removing makeup and keeping it clean and clear throughout their stay.
7. Tooth Paste & Toothbrush:
Toothpaste and toothbrush are essential for oral care, working together to remove plaque, prevent cavities, and maintain fresh breath. These vital tools contribute to your guests’ daily dental care routine, promoting healthy teeth and gums for guests at your short-term rental.
8. Mouth Wash:
Provide a good mouthwash for your guests for a refreshing breath and enhanced oral hygiene throughout their stay and beyond.
9. Shaving Kit:
The kit includes shaving cream, gel, razor, and other Airbnb bathroom essentials, ensuring a shaving experience that is both clean and hygienic for your guests.
10. Hair Dryer:
Encourage your guests to explore various hairstyles by providing a convenient hair dryer. Enhance their experience by offering this useful amenity, allowing them the flexibility to style their hair to their liking throughout their visit.
Cleaning Checklist
For a clean & shining vacation rental home:
1. All-Purpose Cleaner:
An all-purpose cleaner are crucial bathroom essentials, elevating hygiene standards in your short-term rental.
Formulated to effectively remove oil, dirt, and grease without damaging the surfaces, it ensures cleanliness and a well-maintained environment at your Airbnb.
2. Toilet Bowl Cleaner:
It is an essential bathroom cleaning item formulated to ensure your toilet and bathroom are deeply cleaned & smell at their best.
3. Microfiber Cloths:
Microfiber cloths are the ultimate cleaning essentials, perfect for safely cleaning countertops and reflective surfaces without causing any damage. They are versatile, durable, and effective against bacteria, serving as an eco-friendly choice for vacation rental hosts.
4. Broom & Mop:
It’s simple. Enhance the cleanliness of your rental home with the broom and mop. As guests prioritize cleanliness & hygiene when choosing accommodations, these bathroom essential sets are non-negotiables for every Airbnb.
5. Surface Disinfectant Sprays:
Surface disinfectant spays are formulated to kill germs on surfaces. It helps Airbnb hosts to maintain a hygienic environment by reducing the spread of infection. Regular use of disinfectant post-cleaning ensures a clean & healthy accommodation for your guests.
6. Shower & Bathtub Drain Catch:
A drain catch, or a hair catcher, is placed in drains to prevent hair, debris, and other particles from clogging the pipes. It helps maintain proper drainage in sinks and showers, reducing the risk of blockages and the need for plumbing maintenance in your vacation rental.
7. Laundry Detergent:
Laundry detergent is an integral cleaning product in washing machines to remove dirt stains from clothes and linens while preserving the fibers. It helps guests easily preserve their clothing during their stay, promoting convenience and cleanliness.
8. Toilet Brush:
A toilet brush thoroughly cleans your Airbnb bathroom’s toilet bowl. Pair it with a suitable toilet cleaner to remove dirt and germs from your toilet bowl, ensuring a clean and fresh bathroom.
9. Plunger:
In a busy vacation rental, guests might face unexpected plumbing issues. A plunger lets them quickly handle minor clogs, promoting a self-sufficient and fulfilling guest experience.
10. Air Freshener:
An air freshener is one of the most necessary Airbnb bathroom essentials, offering a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. Whether used in bathrooms or bedrooms, air fresheners help eradicate odors and create a welcoming environment for guests.
Waste Management
1. Garbage Cans
Garbage cans keep your rental home clean & hygienic. Ensure you buy one with a lid to prevent the invasion of insects and mosquitoes and the spread of bad odor.
2. Garbage Covers:
The trash cover is placed around the garbage can to gather and dispose of all waste, keeping the trash can clean and maintaining overall hygiene.
3. Tissue Box Cover:
A tissue box is an Airbnb essential that provides quick access to tissues for various needs. A tissue box ensures guests can readily access tissues for wiping hands, handling spills, or minor cleaning tasks.
Without them, guests may use hand towels for all purposes, potentially increasing your costs.
Miscellaneous
1. Shower Curtains:
Shower curtains provide privacy in the bath and prevent the water from wetting the bathroom surface. While sliding doors can serve the purpose, they can’t be easily cleaned & maintained. In such cases, shower curtains become the most preferable option.
2. Hooks & Holders:
Hooks and holders are essential organizers in your vacation rental, providing convenient storage solutions for towels, robes, and other toiletries.
These simple additions enhance the bathroom's functionality, keeping the space tidy and ensuring guests easily access their bathtub accessories. Hooks and holders also contribute to a well-organized and comfortable stay.
3. Bath Mat or Rug:
Absorbs excess water from the feet. Wet bathrooms have slippery floors. In some cases, your guests may slip after bathing and get injured. These mats will prevent them from slipping, absorb excess water from the body, and also regulate body temperature. It is a must-have item in your bathroom essentials checklist to enhance the safety of the bathing space.
4. Soap Dispenser:
Enables users to access fresh liquid with each pump. The liquid soap dispenser offers a convenient handwashing solution, effectively preventing the spread of bacteria and infection.
5. Toilet Paper:
Toilet paper rolls are must-have bathroom essentials for every vacation rental home to ensure your guests a comfortable and hygienic stay.
6. Clear Instruction Manual:
An instruction manual serves as a crucial guide for guests during check-in, providing vital information on property rules, do’s and don’ts, and guidelines for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene.
It ensures a smooth stay, contributing to a positive and informed guest experience in your vacation rental.
Conclusion
A well-stocked bathroom is the secret to exceptional hosting. The provided bathroom essentials checklist ensures hosts create a welcoming space with premium toiletry items, lines, and anti-slip bath slippers.
Attention to cleanliness adds to the positive guest experience. Hosts prioritizing these bathroom essentials leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Happy hosting!