Finding your Happy Place

In today’s busy & often stressful world, it’s more important than ever to find your happy place – a space where you can relax, unwind, & feel at peace. To help you discover your own slice of paradise, here are some tips will help you find the perfect place to recharge & refresh.

Connect with Nature:  One of the most effective ways to find your happy place is by spending time in nature; whether you prefer the tranquillity of a quiet garden or the drama of a rugged coastline.  Research has shown that being in nature can significantly reduce stress, lower blood pressure & improve mood.

Embrace Silence:  In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the constant noise & distractions around us. Escape the chaos by finding a quiet spot where you can relax & be still, from secluded benches to hidden clearings, these quiet spots are perfect for taking a moment to reflect & recharge.

Indulge Your Senses: When it comes to finding your happy place, it’s important to engage all of your senses. Take the time to really appreciate the beauty of your surroundings by listening to birdsong, feeling the sun on your skin, & breathing in the scent of flowers.  Sensory experiences help you fully appreciate the sights, sounds & smells of nature.

Nurture Your Creativity:  For many people, creativity is an essential part of finding their happy place. Whether you enjoy painting, writing, or simply taking photographs – find inspiration from breathtaking landscapes, fascinating historical buildings, & stunning works of art, it’s easy to find something that sparks your imagination.

Enjoy the Company of Others:  It’s worth remembering that finding your happy place doesn’t have to be a solitary experience. Sharing a special spot with friends, family or like-minded individuals can be a wonderful way to boost your happiness & strengthen relationships.

Finding your happy place is not only enjoyable, but essential for your health & wellbeing. So why not plan your next adventure today & find your happy place?

Further Reading: The Power of a Smile: Radiate Confidence and JoyThe Power of Forgiveness

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Exploring the Benefits of Yoga – Improve your Wellbeing

Yoga is recognised as an incredibly effective non-invasive form of exercise & meditation that can trace its roots back to ancient India & has been practiced for centuries as an essential part of an individual’s spiritual practice. It’s no surprise that many people across the world are embracing yoga as a way to attain physical & mental wellbeing.

Relief from pain & stress

Yoga helps you to connect the mind & body, which in turn can lead to a reduction in stress, pain & anxiety. When practised regularly, yoga can stimulate the production of serotonin, dopamine & other neurotransmitters associated with stress & pain reduction. This helps you enter a relaxed state that promotes healing by improving circulation, digestion & other bodily functions.

Improved flexibility & strength

One of the primary benefits of yoga is that it can help improve your physical flexibility & strength. Based on the type of yoga you choose to practice, it can help increase your body’s strength while providing greater flexibility. Regular practice can also improve your muscle tone & increase your overall stamina.

Better Sleep Quality

If you suffer from insomnia, practising yoga might be able to help. Yoga is not just an exercise routine, it’s an integrated approach to living that includes physical movement, meditation & regulated breathing. This means that it can help you de-stress & calm your mind before going to bed, leading to better sleep quality & improved cognitive function.

Reduced heart disease risk

Yoga can help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering blood pressure, increasing heart rate variability & improving lipid profiles. In addition, yoga can help reduce stress & inflammation in the body. All of these factors combine to reduce the risk of heart disease & prevent other cardiovascular issues.

Improved mental wellbeing

Yoga can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing. Regular practice can improve your cognitive function, memory & concentration. Additionally, yoga can improve your mood & alleviate symptoms of depression & anxiety by combining movement, deep breathing & meditation.

With so many benefits to offer, you may need to consider incorporating it into your routine. If you’re new to yoga, it’s a good idea to start slow & work with a certified trainer to avoid injury. The good news is there are plenty of resources available, with classes offered both online & in-person, to get you started on your yoga journey. Yoga can get you started on your path to a healthier, happier life.

We have some great yoga equipment, take a look here

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An Ethical Look at Why Fair Trade Matters

Consumers today have more power than ever to make a difference with their purchasing choices. One growing trend is fair trade, which seeks to level the playing field for farmers and workers in the developing world. But what does fair trade actually mean, and why should we care about it? The reasons why fair trade matters and why ethical consumption is worth considering.

Fair Trade is a movement that seeks to promote sustainability, ethical production, and transparency in the market. By certifying products as “fair trade,” organizations like the Fairtrade Foundation ensure that farmers and workers in places such as Africa, Asia, and Latin America are paid a fair wage and work in safe and healthy conditions. This not only benefits individuals but also empowers communities to invest in their own development.

One of the key issues in conventional trade is the lack of regulation and transparency in pricing. Often, producers in the developing world are paid far less than what their products are worth, while middlemen and corporations take the lion’s share of the profits. According to the World Fair Trade Organization, fair trade aims to eliminate this exploitation by ensuring that prices paid to farmers and workers are “fair” and transparent. This means that they receive prices that are above the fair trade minimum price and premiums when they organize in cooperatives for social, economic or environmental development projects. Ultimately, this fosters stronger, more sustainable relationships between producers and buyers, and it helps to promote a more equitable global economy.

But fair trade goes beyond just price regulations. It also promotes ethical production practices such as protecting workers’ rights and preventing child and forced labour. Fairtrade International, the organisation behind the fair trade certification, has a rigorous set of standards that companies must meet in order to earn the label. This includes ensuring that workers receive adequate breaks, protection against discrimination and harassment, and access to training and education. By investing in fair trade, consumers can know that the products they are buying are coming from ethical and socially responsible sources.

There are numerous benefits to fair trade that extend beyond the producers themselves. Fair Trade products are often produced more sustainably, with an emphasis on environmentally-friendly techniques such as organic or shade-grown farming. This means that fewer harmful chemicals are used and ecosystems are protected. Additionally, fair trade offers a more direct and transparent supply chain, which enables consumers to know more about where their products come from. By purchasing products with a fair trade label, consumers can play a role in promoting accountability and transparency in global supply chains.

Overall, there are many reasons why fair trade matters. Ethical consumption is an ever-growing movement, showcasing the impact that everyday purchases can make in shaping a more socially and environmentally just world. By choosing to buy fair trade products, consumers can support producers in the developing world and contribute to a more equitable global economy. As consumers continue to demand transparency and sustainability from the products they buy, fair trade certification is becoming increasingly vital as a way to ensure these values are being upheld.

Fair Trade is more than just a buzzword – it’s a movement that seeks to promote equity, sustainability, and transparency in a global market. By investing in fair trade products, consumers can help to ensure that farmers and workers in the developing world are paid fairly and work in safe and healthy conditions. Additionally, fair trade promotes ethical production practices and environmental sustainability. By making the choice to support fair trade, consumers are playing an active role in shaping a more socially just and environmentally conscious global economy.

We have a great range of Fair Trade items – take a look!

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How to Choose the Perfect Picnic Hamper

Picnics are a great way to spend quality time with your loved ones while enjoying the great outdoors. However, to make the experience even more enjoyable, you need to have the perfect picnic hamper. A good picnic hamper should be functional, attractive, and able to hold all the essentials you need for your outdoor feast. We have some great tips on how to choose the perfect picnic hamper for your next outdoor adventure, so you can make the most out of your picnic!

Size & Capacity
The first thing to consider when choosing a picnic hamper is its size and capacity. You’ll need to think about how many people are going to attend the picnic, and how much food and drinks you need to bring. A hamper with a larger capacity may be suitable for a large group, but if you’re going for a more intimate setting, a smaller hamper may suffice. Keep in mind that you want a hamper that’s not too heavy or too bulky to carry around.

  1. Construction & Material
    The construction and material of the picnic hamper is another factor to consider. You want a hamper that is durable, sturdy, and able to withstand the elements. Wicker baskets are a popular choice as they’re lightweight, easy to carry, and provide a classic and rustic look. However, there are also picnic hampers made of materials such as canvas, leather, and even metal. Whichever material you choose, make sure that it’s easy to clean and maintain.
  2. Design & Style
    Picnic hampers come in a variety of designs and styles, from traditional to modern and everything in between. You should choose a design that you’re fond of, and that complements your personal style. For example, if you’re a fan of vintage pieces, you may want to opt for a classic wicker hamper with leather accents. Alternatively, if you prefer a more contemporary look, a sleek and modern picnic backpack may be more up your alley.
  3. Accessories
    Picnic hampers often come with various accessories such as plates, cups, utensils, blankets, and wine glasses. Be sure to check what accessories come with the picnic hamper you’re considering, and whether they meet your needs. This will not only save you money but will also ensure that you have all the essentials for a perfect picnic.
  4. Price Point
    Finally, consider the price point of the picnic hamper you’re interested in. While you don’t need to spend a fortune on a hamper, it’s always worth investing in a quality and well-made product. Inexpensive picnic hampers may be tempting, but they may not last long or survive adverse weather conditions. On the other hand, an expensive hamper may not necessarily provide you with the functionalities you require.

Choosing the perfect picnic hamper is not an easy task, but with the right considerations, you can get one that suits your needs. Remember to consider the size and capacity of the hamper, the construction and material, its design and style, any accessories it comes with, and your price point. At the end of the day, a quality picnic hamper is not only functional but also adds an element of style and sophistication to your outdoor adventures. So get ready to pack your picnic basket and hit the great outdoors with the perfect hamper!

We have a great range of picnic hampers – find them here!

Host the Perfect Summer Garden Party

Summer is the perfect time of year to host a garden party. With the sunny skies, warm weather & fresh air, nothing can beat this outdoor experience. If you’re planning to entertain guests this summer, why not take advantage of your beautiful garden space? Hosting a garden party is not only an excellent way to enjoy the great outdoors, but it’s also a fantastic opportunity to show off your stunning garden & impress your guests.

Firepits – A firepit is an excellent addition to your garden party as it creates a cosy & inviting atmosphere. Not only does it emit warmth & light, but it also serves as an excellent focal point. You can gather around the firepit & have a toast, roast marshmallows or simply enjoy each other’s company. You can also add some outdoor seating, such as bench cushions, chairs or throws, to make the area comfortable & cosy for your guests.

BBQ – A summer garden party would not be complete without some BBQ. You can create a BBQ area in your garden space by setting up a grill, utensils, & some tables. You can serve a variety of BBQ dishes, such as burgers, hotdogs, grilled meats & veggies. Not only is it a delicious & easy way to feed many people, but it’s also a fun & casual.

Outside dining – You can create a dining area in your garden space by setting up tables, chairs, tablecloths & cutlery. You can decorate the tables with flower arrangements or candles to create an intimate & beautiful atmosphere. You can even serve your food in outdoor-friendly plates & bowls to add an element of whimsy. Eating outdoors is always a delightful experience & it’s perfect for a summer garden party.

Lighting – Lighting can make or break your garden party atmosphere. You can create a magical & enchanting atmosphere by adding some fairy lights, solar-powered garden lights or lanterns. You can also use candles or tea lights but be careful not to create a fire hazard. Lighting can transform your garden space into a beautiful & inviting space that your guests will love.

Decoration & garden games – Decoration is essential to creating a welcoming & inviting atmosphere. You can add some bunting, balloons or paper lanterns to create a festive atmosphere. You can also add some garden games, such as croquet, badminton or giant Jenga, to provide some entertainment for your guests. These activities will keep your guests amused while they enjoy the garden space.

Garden Games. Click Here.

Bring your home outdoors – Finally, you can incorporate your home style into your garden party by bringing out some indoor furniture or nick-knacks. You can add some colourful cushions, carpets, or throw blankets on your outdoor seating, or bring out some indoor candles or vases. This will create a cohesive & stylish look that is both comfortable & chic.

Hosting a summer garden party can be a lot of fun & it’s an excellent way to connect with your friends & family while enjoying the outdoors. With these tips & ideas, you can create a beautiful & inviting garden space that your guests will love. Remember that the key to a successful garden party is to create a relaxed & casual atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable & welcome. So, go ahead & plan your perfect garden party today!

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