Archive
Personal Training – on a whole new level
In 2008, I got myself a personal trainer. Why? I knew I needed support and someone there to push me when it comes to exercising. And, having to pay money for that also tends to push you to your limits! Besides going to the gym to attend the group exercise programs available, I knew I needed someone to give me the added variety in my program – yes, because I get bored very easily, especially when it comes to exercising. I loved the results – not so much that I lost lots of weight, because I didn’t and really, that wasn’t the aim. I felt physically stronger, the way I ate changed – I became more aware of how much and what I eat without depriving myself of the foods I still love, and I wasn’t tired all the time.
2009 was a totally different story. No personal training, no gyms, no exercise – at all. Now, that really took a toll on my general health and well-being. So, in 2010, I decided, this is it. I had to do something with my health. I joined the Mass Attack programme, which taught me about the different foods available and how much of each type I can eat. It also taught me about my hormones – especially now, since I’m reaching 35, how they have changed and the nutrients I’m lacking. Then, I started doing my walks. And then occasional running incorporated into the walks – lets just say, it did change how my body felt. It felt good.
Now, I’m thinking of having a personalised programme drawn up for me, without having to go the gym. Then I heard about Glow Women’s Fitness Online. An online personal trainer! Imagine that!
Devised by taekwondo champion, Michelle Hex, the Glow programs include:
- regularly updated programs
- easy to follow eating plans
- an interactive journal
- weekly progress reports
- monthly progress reports
- community blog to interact with other members
- phone & email support with Michelle as needed.
What more can we ask for? You have a choice of her 12 or 4 week programs or even the Ready-to-Go programs! Now, that’s something I would love to include in my exercise regime.
An environmentally friendly way to enjoy your evenings
Did you participate in Earth Hour last Saturday night? I did, I turned off all the lights and lighted some lovely scented soy candles. Besides saving electricity, the beauty of it for me was, the peace and quiet that came with it. My kids often go to bed around that time anyway, but I found having the entire house dark, quiet – no TV for me either – somehow, calmed them down even more. I loved that! I guess it gave me time to reflect – yeah I know sounds so cliche’ but it’s true. So, I thought, why not do this every night? Why not light candles every night? Instead of putting the night light on for my daughters, why not light the candle in the bathroom like we did during Earth Hour and instead of turning on the side lamp in the living room, why not light a candle there too?
I went to a conference some time last year and one of the speakers spoke about setting an ambience in her home while she was getting dinner ready. She put on some nice music while cooking, to set the mood, turned off the lights, and lighted candles all around her house. Yes, she has kids and they eat together at the table with all these “mood” lighting and music on. And then they shared the good things that happened that day. Sounds like a storybook setting doesn’t it? Well it’s true life. And we can do it too. Not only can candles help set the mood, but having a calm, dinner time would also then help everyone, including yourself, settle at the end of the day. Try it. You might like it.
There are many stores selling all types of candles out there. From scented wax to soy wax, in different colours, shapes, and in different beautiful glassware too. If you’re looking for something with a little TLC, why not try Dream Candles. They are individually hand poured and comes in a variety of fragrances. Their candles are soy based and are completely filled to ensure a longer burning time. You also have choice of making your own candles with their DIY packs. So why not check them out, no need to go out, just in the comfort of your home or office – online.
Cards go a long way
Sure most of us have emails and with the advent of social media sites, we can also keep in touch without having to send anything through the post. It’s immediate, and most of the time FREE. A few years ago, my Dad came down from Singapore to visit my family. He is not very tech savvy. Doesn’t like computers, but on the other hand is very handy with the mobile phone and texting! Go figure. Anyway, during one of our conversations, he asked about the kids’ birthdates, so that he can note it down and know how many cards he had to stock up on. I was puzzled – stock up? Why? Apparently he found it really hard to find cards in Singapore nowadays, and so was thrilled to find cards EVERYWHERE, here, in Melbourne! So he needed to stock up for my three kids, one for each year and also find out their ages for the next few years – sad but true. Now cards, to me, hold a special meaning. I keep all the cards I receive – seriously, in a box. I think I learned that from my Dad. He is pretty sentimental that way. Once, my Dad sent me a cut out of a comic that related to what we were chatting about once, and attached to it, was a small note. And yes, I still have that note! I also still keep the letters my husband wrote to me when I was still in Singapore. Yes, all in a box. I love getting cards. I love the art work, the words my friends or relatives write in them, even if it was hand made by the sender. I think it means a lot more than sending an email or a text message really. Why? You actually have to choose the card, think which card is appropriate, and then think of what to write AND take the effort to post it.
I know many of us are too busy to go to the shops or have card parties, to get our cards. Now, with the advent of technology and the internet, you can purchase your cards ONLINE! Thinkcards, have a fantastic collection of high quality boutique cards, which are sourced from around the globe. Be it Birthdays, Annivesaries, or even cards for business use, you name it, they’ve got it! Why not browse their site to see what they’ve got. You won’t be disappointed.
Contributor Spotlight – Dead Sea Source Australia
Dead Sea Source Australia online store is the only authorised online retailer of AHAVA Dead Sea products. AHAVA’s beauty products are professional mineral skin care products that are stocked in salons and day spas around the world. Managed by Jodie, a qualified beauty therapist, you can be rest assured that she knows what she’s talking about, when it comes to skin care. If you were unsure as to what products suit your skin, Dead Sea Source Australia even has a special skin analysis service, which would also see you receiving free samples of the recommended products for only $5.
Visit their site at www.deadsea.com.au to find out more about their products and service. Also, if you spend a minimum of $50, you will be eligible to enter the fabulous Mega Mums Give Away. And remember, you DON’T need to be a mum to join in!
Mega Mum’s Give Away – Are you going to join in?
We are very excited to inform our loyal followers, that Baubles, Bubbles & Bags, along with NINE other wonderful businesses have come together to hold this fabulous give away. Yes, it’s called Mega Mum’s Give Away, but you don’t need to be a mum to enter! All you have to do is, make a minimum purchase stated at either of these businesses (and OURS), answer a simple question and you could see yourself winning this hamper worth OVER $1000! The promotion start from 25th March to 25th April 2010. Head on to www.baublesbubblesbags.com to find out more!
Baubles, Bubbles & Bags Style File 