When it comes to modern weddings, tradition takes on a new twist, especially concerning gifts. Gone are the days when newlyweds only expected blenders, toasters, and fine china. Today, cash funds are making a significant mark as the go-to wedding gift, and here’s why this trend is catching on like wildfire.

The Rise of Practicality

The heart of this shift lies in practicality. Couples today often live together before tying the knot, meaning they already have their homes furnished with the essentials. Enter cash funds: a straightforward solution that allows guests to give a gift that provides flexibility and freedom; instead of guessing what the couple needs or risking duplicate gifts, guests can contribute to a fund that helps the newlyweds build their future together. This could be anything from a down payment on a house to a dream honeymoon. It’s not just about giving money; it’s about offering a token towards the couple’s shared goals and dreams.

A New Era of Wedding Planning

As weddings evolve, so does the way couples plan these events. With the internet at their fingertips, today’s couples are designing celebrations that are uniquely theirs, breaking free from the one-size-fits-all approach. This tailored planning often involves detailed budgets where every dollar counts. Cash funds seamlessly integrate into this modern planning process, providing a clear picture of financial resources. It’s at this junction that many couples find value in hiring a wedding planner. A professional can guide them in allocating their budget effectively, including the generous contributions from their cash fund, ensuring their vision comes to life without a hitch.

The Heart Behind the Gift

While some may argue that giving money is impersonal, the trend of cash funds challenges this notion. It’s not just about the cash but what the money represents. Couples are encouraged to share their dreams and plans with their guests, whether it’s saving for a home, planning an unforgettable honeymoon, or funding a passion project. This transparency turns a monetary gift into a deeply personal contribution to the couple’s future. Guests aren’t just handing over cash but investing in the newlyweds’ dreams. This personal touch transforms the act of giving, making it as meaningful and unique as a handpicked gift.

The Customization Craze

The customization options available with cash funds are practically limitless, making them incredibly appealing. Couples can set up multiple funds for different aspects of their lives, such as home renovations, adventure travels, or cooking classes. This flexibility allows guests to choose where they feel their gift will make the most impact based on their relationship with the couple and what they know about their interests and needs. This level of personalization elevates cash funds beyond a simple monetary transaction. It becomes a heartfelt contribution to specific aspirations or adventures the couple has dreamt about. Giving becomes deeply intertwined with the couple’s future experiences and memories.

The Socially Savvy Movement

Social media plays a pivotal role in spreading the word about cash funds. Couples are creating sleek, sophisticated websites and apps that tell their love story, detail their future plans, and gently guide guests toward their preferred gifts. This approach makes it easy for guests to contribute to a cash fund and helps them feel connected to the couple’s future endeavors. Moreover, as these funds become more common, they’re gaining social acceptance, making guests more comfortable with the idea of giving money as a gift. The trend is especially popular among younger generations who value experiences over material possessions. For example, when looking for wedding venues in Philadelphia, Richmond, or wherever you live, it’s common to see mentions of preferred cash fund platforms in the FAQs, highlighting how integrated this trend has become in the wedding planning process.

The Global Perspective

Cash gifts have long been the norm in many cultures around the world, symbolizing good luck and prosperity for the newlyweds. As societies become more globalized, these traditions are blending, making cash funds a universally appealing option. This global perspective adds a rich cultural layer to the trend, allowing couples to honor traditional customs while embracing the convenience and flexibility of modern technology. Whether it’s a traditional red envelope at an Asian wedding or a digital fund for a Western ceremony, the underlying message is the same: a wish for happiness, prosperity, and a bright future for the couple.

The rising popularity of cash funds as wedding gifts marks a significant shift in how we think about celebrating love and marriage. Far from impersonal, this trend reflects a deeper understanding of what truly matters to couples as they start their lives together. It’s about practicality, sure, but it’s also about personalization, cultural richness, and the joy of contributing to someone’s future happiness and dreams. As we move forward, cash funds stand out not just as a modern convenience but as a meaningful way to honor the journey of love and partnership in today’s world. So, the next time you’re invited to a wedding, remember that contributing to a cash fund is more than just giving money—it’s a celebration of love, dreams, and the beautiful future that lies ahead.

Annu

Annu Kumari is a writer cum makeup artist and an introvert. From studying Aeronautical Engineering and wanting to design her own aeroplane to writing articles on beauty.

Sharing the products I’ve used up in the past few weeks. It is always interesting, I think, to see what people completely use up. I hardly ever use up makeup items, simply because I don’t wear makeup on a daily basis, so these posts tend to be predominantly skincare.

I adore fig scented products and this Diptyque perfume is gorgeous. It is a fragrance with richness and depth and smells like warm summer evenings. I used to live in Cyprus and this is what it reminds me of. Yes, it is an expensive product, but the quality and intensity of the scent makes it worth every penny. It smells so rich throughout the day, people always compliment me when I wear it, it is a perfume I recommend time and time again. I think it is a lovely fresh Summer scent, I am sad I’ve used it all up, hoping to get another bottle for my birthday, it is such a treat.

Top notes – Fig Leaf and Fig
Middle notes – Green Notes and Coconut
Base notes – Fig Tree, Woody Notes and Cedar.
Nip & Fab Salicylic Fix Serum

This was quite an intense serum, not ideal if you have sensitive skin. I used it at night and thought it was good at smoothing out textured skin. I don’t suffer from breakouts, but this would be a great addition to your routine if you want to reduce pores, control breakouts and help reduce uneven skin tone. I do like that it contains aloe vera to sooth skin and purple ginseng to help control oil. Nip & Fab have an entire Salicylic Fix collection, great if you want to help control oil, breakouts and get a healthy glow. I wouldn’t repurchase it, but I used it up and enjoyed it.

This is the second bottle I have used up, Wake are a skincare brand that you might not of heard of but that you should 100% check out. They have revamped their branding this year and introduced quite a few new products. I really rate their skincare and have enjoyed everything I have tried from them. The eye gel has a lightweight consistency, it is not tacky or greasy and sits well under makeup. It is great for soothing puffy, tired eyes and helping to combat dark circles. Cucumber and elderflower awakens and soothes puffy eyes, while Aloe Vera cools and moisturises. I really like it.

This is an absolute gem of a facial SPF! Like most people over the past few years, I have become aware of how important it is to wear sunscreen on a daily basis, especially a facial SPF. Garnier Ambre Solaire do lots of variations, I like this anti-age one, but they also do an anti dryness, sensitive or anti-dark spot option. This sun cream offers advanced protection against immediate sun induced skin damage, caused by UVB rays, as well as protection from long-term damage and premature skin ageing caused by UVA rays. I recommend the Garnier sunscreen, it is affordable, easy to get hold of and gives you a high level of protection.

Korean skincare experts Erborian are a brand that just deliver incredible skincare, time, and time again. I love their BB & CC creams, which are always in my makeup bag. This serum was such a joy to use, It is instantly smoothing, lightweight and hydrating. This serum is pretty impressive, I have learnt after using a few products that this Ginseng collection from Erborian is up there with the best skincare I have tried, especially for my age group. Great for both morning and evening, this serum will keep your skin looking naturally radiant, serum is one of my favourite skincare steps. I love the added hydration this serum gives my skin, how plump and healthy it looks after applying it.

80% Ginseng extracts, 90% natural origin ingredients

White Ginseng Extract – prevents the appearance of the signs of ageing and helps to smooth wrinkles.
Fermented Red Ginseng – helps to preserve the youth of the skin.
Ginseng Aqueous Extracts – obtained through a process of steam maceration of Ginseng, they contain minerals necessary for the balance and the hydration of the skin.
Hyaluronic Acid – plumps up the surface of the skin
Peptides – maintains collagen levels for a firming and smoothing effect
Complex of Tara fruit and Red Algae extracts – smooths and reduces wrinkles

& Other Stories Arabesque Wood

This is a gorgeous fragrance, more affordable but equally lovely as the other two scents. This perfume is layers of woody, warm citrus notes that are light but rich. I wear this mostly in the day, as my everyday scent. The rich notes like ginger, citrus and amber make it feel indulgent and luxurious. & Other Stories have a such a wonderful selection of fragrances, they have something to fit everyone’s tastes.

The bottle is dainty but weighty, so it looks minimal and classy on your vanity. These fragrances make incredible gifts and the scents come in a body spray, handwash and hand cream, so you can go wild with your favourite scents!

Top notes: Lemon, Ginger and Watery Notes
Middle notes: Petitgrain and Tangerine
Base notes: Agarwood (Oud), Oakmoss and Amber

I do love a gradual tanner, there are so many on the market now and some really good quality affordable options. You just don’t need to spend a lot to get a nice one, I have used this one from Sunkissed for a good few years now, and I am always happy with the results, it gives a nice even, natural coverage. I like that it makes me look healthy and that gives me confidence to show my bare legs/wear shorts & dresses. Not only do you get a nice healthy glow, your skin is also nourished and hydrated with hydrating Shea Butter, Vitamin E and Aloe Vera whilst being free of nasties like parabens, alcohol, silicones, sulphates and phthalates.

This is a product that isn’t overly exciting or one that is a must-have, but if you are someone that suffers from irritation after hair removal, then this is a great product for you. It took me a while to use up, mostly because it is a huge tube, but I did use it all up and actually enjoyed it. Post wax or shaving, I liked that the blend of Clove and Chamomile Essential Oils helped soothe and hydrate, as well as delaying regrowth and preventing ingrown hairs. One of those products you didn’t know you needed until you try it.

Products marked with an * are PR samples.

Related

Introduction

It’s no wonder that when our hair feels dry and looks damaged it can really affect our confidence. We know it’s not your fault though; life gets hectic and we don’t always have time to take care of our hair properly. Being stressed, exposure to the sun and heat styling are just a few of the factors that our hair is challenged with everyday. Luckily there are a few basic rules of thumb you can incorporate into your routine in order to help your hair live up to its full potential!

What Causes Hair Damage?

It’s important to understand what damages our hair so we find solutions!

It’s important to understand what causes our hair to become dry, damaged and brittle, before we apply the solutions to fix it. This will help to prevent further damage and ensure that you’re giving your hair the extra TLC that it needs. Once you’ve understood the cause of your damaged hair, you can begin tailoring your approach to fixing the problem and addressing specific concerns.

1. Excessive Heat Styling

Modern day heat styling tools have made it so easy for us to get sleek, straight hair or bouncy curls, but not without a cost to the health of our hair. When you use thermal styling tools on your hair, the excessive heat may dry out your hair and scalp, which can lead to a number of complications. Dry hair is far more prone to breakage and split ends. You should consider avoiding heat styling tools altogether, although we know this is a big ask, so consider an attempt to minimize their usage. When in need of them, be sure to use a heat-protectant spray or leave-in conditioner in your hair to protect it from the heat.

2. The Effects Of Stress On Our Hair

Stress is something that we all carry in our minds in some form or another. While stress is a primarily mental battle, it can still have some very physical effects on our body. The health of our hair can be significantly affected by excessive stress. Practicing mindfulness, meditating, yoga and physical exercise can be amazing stress-relieving techniques. These activities can help you deal with your stress and possibly reduce it, and in doing so help your hair’s health get back on track.

3. Extreme Weather And The Sun

Winter’s weather can wreak havoc on your hair!

You may think that summer is the biggest culprit here, but winter’s weather conditions can wreak just as much havoc on your hair. In summer, the sun beats down on our hair and can cause damage, while in wintertime the cold, dry air can also lead to negative effects on our hair. It’s important to wear hats when going into direct sunlight and to wear your hair in protective hairstyles like buns, twists and braids in summer and winter, in order to protect your hair from the elements.

How To Repair Damaged Hair

Now that you know a few of the main reasons for damaged hair, we can talk about the steps you can take to get your hair thriving again. These simple, proactive tips can help prevent your hair from becoming dry and damaged so that you can experience happier hair days.

1. Trimming And Styling

Although the myth of cutting your hair to help it grow faster doesn’t actually work, regular trims play a crucial role in removing split ends and maintaining overall hair health. When you get your hair cut, it’s important to tailor your hairstyle to one that suits your unique lifestyle. For example, if you’re someone who’s a busy bee then you should consider a shorter, more low-maintenance hairstyle. If you want to take it a step further, there are certain hair styles such as loose ponytails and braids which can also help protect your hair from damage, and which never really go out of style.

2. Choosing The Right Products

One of the most important, yet often overlooked, aspects of hair care is matching the correct products to your specific hair type and concerns. If you are experiencing issues with dry and damaged hair then it’s vital that you use products that are specifically formulated to repair and restore damaged hair. You should be looking for products that contain biotin, keratin and naturally-derived ingredients that will give your hair nourishment and hydration. Many commercial hair care products contain potentially-harmful chemicals such as parabens, sulfites and synthetic fragrances. These chemicals may strip your hair of its natural oils, and this increases the risk of damage.

3. Foods That Boost Hair Health

Eating a balanced diet is essential for healthy hair.

The health of our hair starts from the inside-out. Hydration and eating the right diet plays a big role in the health of our hair. Having enough protein in your diet is essential for optimal hair growth, as well as consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, vitamins and minerals. When we eat these nutrient-rich foods on a regular and consistent basis, we are giving our hair follicles the building blocks they need to provide optimal hair growth. 

4. Deep Conditioning Treatments

If you have damaged hair, it’s highly likely that it will be dry and brittle as well. It’s important to restore moisture to your hair and use products that can provide your scalp and locks with deep hydration. Keep an eye out for products that contain ingredients like shea butter, argan, almond and avocado oil, and cocoa butter. These plant-based ingredients can be exceptionally nourishing and help to restore the moisture balance you need for healthy hair. If your hair needs serious hydration quickly, we recommend using a leave-in conditioner once a week to replenish your locks. 

5. The Power of Plant-Based Oils

There is a whole world of natural ingredients that can work wonders for your hair. Coconut, jojoba, tea tree and rosemary oil all have magical properties that can benefit the health of your hair. Many of the plant oils we get from mother nature are lightweight and closely resemble the natural sebum produced by our scalp. This sebum is essential for optimal hair growth, and this is why plant-based oils not only provide powerful nutrients and hydration, but they also help restore and maintain balance of your hair, inside and out.

DIY Remedies

There are many DIY recipes you can try for yourself at home using everyday household ingredients that can be extremely beneficial for your hair! They can be really fun to prep, and they help create a spa-like experience at home that is kind on the wallet and can be tailored to your preferences. Here are a few of our favorite DIY remedies for damaged hair! 

1. Avocado And Honey Hair Mask

The Avocado and Honey Hair Mask is a wonderful remedy for dry and damaged hair, combining the rich nutritional content of avocado with the moisturizing properties of honey. To create this hydrating mask, mash a ripe avocado and mix it with 2 tablespoons of honey and 1 tablespoon of olive oil until a smooth texture has formed. Apply the mixture to damp hair, paying attention to the ends and damaged areas, then cover your hair with a shower cap and leave the mask on for 30-45 minutes. Finally, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water and shampoo as usual!

2. Greek Yogurt And Aloe Vera Mask

The aloe vera plant.

Aloe vera is both soothing and nourishing for damaged hair, and this mask combines aloe vera with another one of our favorite DIY beauty ingredients, greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is rich in protein, making it the perfect companion for a hair mask with aloe vera in it. To create this mask, mix 1/2 cup of Greek yogurt with 2 tablespoons of aloe vera gel and 1 tablespoon of honey in a bowl until you get a smooth consistency. Apply the mixture to clean, damp hair, ensuring even distribution. Keep the mask on for 20-30 minutes. Finally, rinse your hair thoroughly with lukewarm water and shampoo your hair properly. 

3. Coconut Oil And Egg

This DIY remedy combines the deep conditioning properties of coconut oil and the protein-rich benefits of eggs. To make this mask, whisk one egg in a bowl and combine it with 2 tablespoons of warm, liquid coconut oil, and mix well. Apply it to your hair and make sure you completely cover your hair from the roots to the ends. Cover your hair with a shower cap and leave the treatment on for 20-30 minutes. Afterward, rinse your hair with cool water to prevent the egg from cooking and shampoo as you normally would.

Conclusion 

Your hair is not just a style accessory, but a blank canvas of endless possibilities. By following these tips and understanding the causes of damaged hair, you can get your hair care game back on track. Making these aspects of hair care part of your everyday routine is the easiest way to get hair that is beautiful and vibrant. Embrace better formulas, keep your hair hydrated and protected from stress! Let the hair magic begin, and may your locks be forever fabulous!

In today’s world, plastic surgery procedures offer diverse options for those seeking to enhance their appearance, perhaps for a special occasion like a wedding.

From subtle refinements to significant alterations, various surgical procedures—performed by Dr. Pirani and other reputable plastic surgeons—can help individuals achieve their desired look and boost their self-confidence.

This article discusses popular plastic surgery procedures, recovery timelines, and the pros and cons of each, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview for those considering cosmetic enhancements before their big day.

Facelift (Rhytidectomy)

Surgical procedures such as a facelift can reduce the appearance of facial wrinkles and sagging skin, providing a more youthful look. It’s often sought to address aging signs around the cheeks and jawline.

During a facelift, incisions are typically made near the hairline at the temples, continuing around the ear and ending in the lower scalp. Excess skin is removed, and underlying tissue is repositioned or tightened. Sometimes, fat may be redistributed or sculpted.

Recovery generally takes 2 to 3 weeks for most of the visible swelling and bruising to subside, although full recovery can take up to several months.

While a facelift ultimately results in a more youthful appearance, it comes with potential risks of scarring and nerve damage. During recovery, the initial weeks may include noticeable swelling and bruising.

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

Eyelid surgery is aimed at correcting drooping eyelids and can remove excess skin, muscle, and sometimes fat from the upper and lower eyelids, helping to rejuvenate tired-looking eyes.

In this procedure, incisions are made along the natural lines of your eyelids, which minimizes visible scarring.

Most people return to normal activities after 10 to 14 days, although complete healing might take several weeks.

While eyelid surgery improves the look of your eyes, it comes with potential complications such as dry eyes and difficulty closing them. Plus, during recovery, you may feel some discomfort and swelling.

Rhinoplasty

Also known as a ‘nose job,’ this surgery reshapes the nose to improve its appearance and proportion in relation to other facial features. It can also correct impaired breathing caused by structural defects in the nose.

It reshapes the nose by modifying the bone and cartilage. Generally, incisions are made inside the nose or along the natural crease.

Recovery usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks for initial healing, but subtle swelling can persist for up to a year.

While rhinoplasty enhances facial harmony, it involves significant initial swelling and bruising. It can also take up to a year for the final contour to stabilize, with a potential need for reoperation.

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation involves using implants to increase the size of the breasts or restore breast volume that has been lost after weight reduction or pregnancy.

Implants (saline or silicone) are inserted under the breast tissue or chest muscles through incisions made in inconspicuous areas to minimize scar visibility.

Most people can resume normal activities within a week, though strenuous activity should be avoided for about 4 to 6 weeks.

While breast augmentation can boost self-esteem with minimal scarring, complications like implant leakage, capsular contracture, and the potential for revision surgery exist.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy)

This procedure enhances and lifts the breasts by excising extra skin and reinforcing the surrounding tissue to redefine and support the breasts’ renewed shape.

It excises surplus skin and repositions the remaining tissue and nipples. The incisions can vary but commonly include around the areola and vertically down to the breast crease.

Most people can return to work within a week, but full recovery, which includes the settling of the breasts into their new position, can take several months.

A breast lift rejuvenates the breast profile; however, it results in more visible scars compared to augmentation, and risks include asymmetry and loss of nipple sensation.

Breast Reduction

This surgery reduces the size of large breasts by removing excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin, making them more proportionate to the rest of the body and alleviating discomfort associated with overly large breasts.

Recovery typically takes about 2 to 6 weeks, with the most significant discomfort subsiding in the first few days post-surgery.

Breast reduction alleviates discomfort and enhances shape and proportionality. However, the recovery can be painful and lengthy, with significant scarring and risks like reduced nipple sensation or difficulties in breastfeeding.

Liposuction

Liposuction removes excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, and buttocks, improving their shape and contour.

Fat from targeted areas is suctioned out through small incisions using a cannula and a vacuum device. It’s particularly effective in areas resistant to diet and exercise.

Recovery can vary, but most people return to work within a few days to two weeks. However, swelling may last for several months. Recovery may involve uneven contours, numbness, or infection.

Liposuction effectively reduces stubborn fat deposits, but it is not a weight-loss solution, and areas treated can accumulate fat again if weight is not maintained. 

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)

Abdominoplasty can make the abdomen firmer and smoother. It involves removing excess fat and skin and tightening muscles in the abdominal wall.

Excess fat and skin are excised from the abdomen, and the muscles beneath are strengthened. This is usually done through a horizontal cut made across the lower abdomen.

Full recovery can take 3 to 6 weeks, with complete internal healing taking up to a year. It’s important to note that a tummy tuck leaves a permanent scar, requires weeks of reduced activity, and carries risks like blood clots and poor wound healing.

Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

Otoplasty can improve the shape, position, or proportion of the ear. It is commonly used to correct ears perceived as too large, or that protrude outward. Incisions are usually made on the back of the ear to minimize visible scarring.

Recovery typically lasts about a week for major swelling and bruising to subside, with complete healing over several months.

Otoplasty corrects ear deformities with minimal complications and significant improvement in appearance and self-confidence. However, the results may not be symmetric. Moreover, recovery includes discomfort from head bandages and potential changes in skin sensation.

Chin Surgery (Mentoplasty)

This can be a reduction or augmentation of the chin using surgical implants or reduction surgery on the bone to enhance or balance facial features.

Typical recovery ranges from one to three weeks. Swelling can persist for several months but usually isn’t very noticeable.

It also carries risks of nerve damage affecting facial expressions, discomfort, and potential dissatisfaction with aesthetic outcomes.

Conclusion

Plastic surgery procedures can play a significant role in preparing for one’s wedding, providing various options for enhancing or refining physical features. Each procedure comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and it’s crucial for potential candidates to thoroughly discuss these with a qualified surgeon. 

Understanding the procedures, recovery expectations, and potential outcomes ensures that decisions are made with clarity and confidence, paving the way for a satisfying transformation right before your big day!

Annu

Annu Kumari is a writer cum makeup artist and an introvert. From studying Aeronautical Engineering and wanting to design her own aeroplane to writing articles on beauty.

#Gifted I had heard so many positive things about rosemary in haircare and how good an ingredient it was in hair oil for promoting growth, strength, and shine, so I was very excited to try the Forest & Shore Thrive Hair Oil. Right away I noticed how luxurious the packaging was, it has a high quality salon feel and look.

The box has pretty sketches of all the wonderful botanical ingredients, and the soft lemon colour is pretty against the white and the black illustrations. They clearly tell you how to use the product and the benefits. I even like the font they have used, I appreciate a good type face.  The bottle and the pipet are glass, the top is rubber (good quality) I like the nice minimal label, and you can clearly see how much product you have left. So the quality and aesthetic of this product gets a big thumbs up from me.

You can use this product in two ways, you can use it as an overnight treatment up to 3x a week, then wash your hair in the morning. Or you can add 3 – 5 drops after you wash your hair, which is how I have been mostly using it. I have a short bob, so only use 3 drops on the midlength of my hair, and I have noticed a big difference after 3 months of use. I had quite split ends which looked frizzy and dry, I also noticed before using the oil that I would get a lot of breakage and this has greatly reduced in recent months.

My ends never look frizzy, my hair is very glossy and less breakage means it is stronger. So I am thrilled. It took me a week or so to get the amount of product right, as I was being a little too liberal with how much I was putting on and my hair would go greasy, so 3 drops works well for me and my hair length.

If you want to see more results and stimulate hair growth, then using this oil overnight is the best way to achieve that. I wanted more targeted results, focusing on the ends of my hair, and this is where I have seen visible results.

Because Forest and Shore use a blend of the very best oils that are nutrient rich, your hair is in the very best hands! This oil is absolutely jam packed with, as the box says, earth loving botanicals (and hair loving too). You will also notice straight away that Thrive Hair Oil smells like a luxury spa, it has a relaxing and soothing fragrance. To me, I can smell the lavender, parsley, and rosemary which are beautiful!

Here are a list of all the fantastic natural ingredients in the oil and the benefits for your hair, there are so many!

This oil will nourish your hair and scalp, encourage hair growth, strengthen hair, reduce split ends and frizz and make your hair look, feel and actually be healthy and glossy. I very rarely use conditioner now, and the only other styling product I use (only when I am putting heat on my hair) is a heat protector spray. Otherwise I only use shampoo and my hair oil, talk about simplifying my routine, love it! You can’t beat a simple routine.

Not only is the Thrive Hair Oil good for all hair types, you name it curly, wavy or poker straight, it is also completely natural, certified organic and vegan-friendly. Made in the UK with high quality sustainably sourced ingredients. This oil is 100% natural, free from silicones and is cruelty free.

The founder of Forest and Shore, Emily Horrigan has done a lovely job with this brand & it is a slice of British luxury, with a focus on using natural botanical ingredients and really harnessing the power of plants.  Let me know if you have tried anything from this brand, if you want to learn more about their products head to Forest & Shore or you can purchase their products on Amazon.

* This post contains an affiliate link.

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Introduction

Have you ever felt the burning desire to transform your life and embrace a healthier lifestyle and mindset? If so, then you’ve come to the right place! Transformative change begins with setting a healthy routine that encourages a balance between your mind, body and soul. So what exactly is a healthy routine? Is it an art, a science? Well it’s kind of both. It’s about creating positive habits and nurturing growth. If you don’t know where to start, don’t worry! We’re going to break down exactly how to set a new routine and help you embrace a healthier lifestyle that’s better for your mind and body! Here’s our beginners guide to starting a routine!

Embracing Healthy Habits

Healthy habits can make you more resilient and prepared to take on any challenges.

Your new routine is going to be built on the basis of embracing healthy habits. We’re not just talking about the physical aspect (i.e. eating the right diet and getting in daily exercise), but also embracing habits that will improve your mental state. It can be difficult enough as it is getting through some days, so why should you take the time for healthy habits? Seems like a mission, right? But honestly, healthy habits can make you more resilient and prepared to take on any challenges life may throw at you. Habits are the catalysts which define how we spend most of our time, so when we actively seek out healthier habits, we are already getting the ball rolling towards a better routine. 

Clearly Define Your Goals

The clearer and more defined your destination is, the easier it is for you to know where you’re going and how to get there. By creating goals that are tangible, you may find newfound motivation and direction which will encourage consistency and avoid you slipping back into old habits. When you’re setting goals, you should follow the S.M.A.R.T rules. This means your goals should be Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. If you follow this formula of goal setting you’re far more likely to achieve them because you’re not just writing a general idea down. You’re going into detail and breaking the goal down into smaller objectives. So decide what your goals are for your routine and allow them to be the cornerstone that you can begin building your routine around. 

Create Morning Rituals That Encourage Positivity

Winning your mornings is the best way to win your day. When you’re starting out your routine, you want to make sure you fill your mornings with as much joy and positivity as you can, because they will set the tone for the rest of the day. From mindfulness to positive affirmations, we’ll explore simple yet effective ways to start your day on a positive note, setting the stage for success! 

1. Start The Day With Positive Affirmations 

Positivity is a language that you can easily teach to yourself with a little bit of consistency. Repeating positive affirmations to yourself in the morning will help cultivate the mindset that’s going to propel you when you’re trying to reach your goals. Positive affirmations can be more than just words, if they’re handled right, they can begin to shape your reality and become words of truth. If relationships are an area you’d like to improve on you could say, “I attract loving, positive relationships into my life”. If you’re seeking financial success you could say, “I am a magnet for success and prosperity”. The affirmations can be simple and to the point, but they can completely transform the way you see the world! 

2. Mindful Breathing Practices 

Tap into your inner sanctuary with mindful breathing practices.

When you tap into mindful breathing practices, you are tapping into your inner sanctuary. Picture it as inhaling peace and exhaling the chaos of daily life. Breathing is all about rhythm, and when we’re mindful of our breathing it can bring us a significant amount of tranquility. Consider practicing 4-7-8 breathing, where you inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 7 seconds and exhale for 8 seconds. Repeat this cycle until you feel more relaxed. Box breathing is another popular exercise where you inhale for 4 seconds, hold your breath for 4 seconds and exhale for 4 seconds. Even simply being mindful of your breathing, noting your inhales and exhales can significantly improve relaxation. With every deliberate breath, you can create a haven of serenity, which is a powerful tool to combat the hustle and bustle of the day that awaits you.

3. Incorporate Movement Into Your Mornings

One way to infuse your day with vitality is to incorporate movements into your morning routine. It can be as simple as going for a brisk walk, having a morning swim or it can be an intense workout routine. Depending on what you’re comfortable with, movement and exercise get the blood flowing and this releases feel-good hormones that can swarm your day with positive energy. When we are asleep our bodies are still, and this can result in us experiencing some degree of stiffness in the morning. This is why it’s important to get our bodies moving as early as possible and to help us get into the rhythm of the day to come! 

How To Overcome Challenges 

Even when you’ve become somewhat of an expert at embracing a healthier routine, you will still find challenges. If you can change your attitude towards challenges, you will see them not as obstacles, but rather as stepping stones on your way to the newer, better and more-improved you. Let’s take a look at some ways in which you can overcome these challenges!

1. The Power of Consistency

The heartbeat behind progress is the desire and motivation to maintain consistency. Consistently working at something and remaining committed to it-in other words, cultivating discipline-is precisely how you can turn your aspirations into achievements. Without consistency, it can be very difficult to maintain a routine. This is why getting out of bed, and doing your routine every morning, even when you don’t want to, is the right way to cement your routine into your way of life. You’ll find that by doing something every single day, each day gets easier and easier and it begins to feel like a normal part of your life that you can’t go without. 

2. Create A Support System 

There is a strength that is very visible when people come together in unity.

We’re not alone in this world, so why should we have to deal with challenges by ourselves? There is a strength that is very visible when people come together in unity and when we’re looking for solutions to challenges, more often than not, two heads are better than one. Surround yourself with individuals who uplift, inspire, and understand your goals and aspirations. People who like challenging you and who expect you to step outside of your comfort zone are the ones who you should keep closest. Your support group can be made up of family, friends and work colleagues. Relying on other people for support should not be seen as a weakness, but instead a valuable weapon in your arsenal! 

3. The Effectiveness of Time-Management 

Time – why does it feel like we never have enough of it and that sometimes there’s just not enough hours in the day? It is the most important resource in our life and how we decide to spend our time is one of the things that we can never take back. This is why developing effective time-management skills are so crucial in life, and especially in maintaining a routine. By setting priorities, establishing routines, and mastering the art of focus, you unlock the door to productivity. Time-management is not just a tool for increasing your productivity, but it’s a way of achieving balance and harmony in all aspects of life! 

Finding Joy In The Process

In the pursuit of our goals and a more balanced life, we really need to stop and take time in the present moment to appreciate what’s around us. If you take a five-hour drive to a beautiful destination, but shut off along the entire drive and only focus on the destination, you’ve missed out on five beautiful hours of your life. Life is a road trip; we may be heading towards a destination, but we should take time to appreciate the scenery, soak up the sounds and embrace every moment of it. Too much time spent wishing on a better life is not a healthy mindset to adopt. Ideally, we should be happy with where we are and appreciate what we’ve got, while still striving to be better! 

Track Your Progress And Celebrate Your Achievements 

Self-awareness is the compass which can guide you through your days and give you the direction you need to succeed. In every single step we take, and every obstacle that we overcome, there’s a victory to be celebrated. Even if it’s a small win, it’s so important to be self-aware of your growth and to celebrate your progress. You can consider making a progress journal, where you write down your goals and track your activities so that you can monitor your progress. When we take the time to reflect on our growth, it can be immensely satisfying and help us feel more proud of ourselves. We often beat ourselves up because we’re not doing enough, but Rome wasn’t built in a day and neither will your success be! So appreciate the journey and give yourself a pat on the back from time to time!

Conclusion

So, as you reflect on your journey, remember this: you are creating a life that resonates with your deepest desires. Appreciate the beauty of the process, celebrate your victories, and revel in the knowledge that each day is a step toward the best version of yourself. Maintaining a healthy routine can help elevate your mind, body and soul, but it’s not an easy road and you will face challenges. The road may be long, but the joy is in the journey, and every stride counts toward a healthier, happier you!

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