.jpg "A Durable Dental Chew Toy for Dogs")
We sure love him, so of course, Nana here had to hunt for a dental dog chew toy that was good for his teeth, health, and breath and that couldn't be destroyed.
Decorating for the holidays should be a joy, not a hassle.
Enter the world of pre-lit pop-up Christmas trees - the perfect solution when saving time, space, and money aligns seamlessly with festive cheer.
Let's delve into the why and how of these convenient holiday gems.
Meet my spare room—a comfy haven with a king-size bed that, unfortunately, lacks a headboard.
I prefer a bed with a headboard to protect the wall from potential marks from hands and hair. Even this simple barrier is better than nothing in my opinion.
An actual headboard wasn't an option as that would have taken up too much walking area in the room. Also, I wasn't into securing anything decorative to the wall (we just painted).
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| Notice the Wedge Bolster Against the Wall Behind the Pillows? |
In my quest to find a quick and easy solution, I stumbled upon this perfect bolster.
It's not just a simple fix; it's an instant problem-solver and quite decorative.
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| Takes About a Day to Pop Into Its Shape-Not the Full Shape Here |
This Versatile Tool Serves Four Functions, Although I Personally Only Required It as a Backing Barrier Against the Wall
Also, Perfectly Fills a Wall Gap: Have you ever experienced the struggle of losing pillows, phones, or even glasses in the gap between the mattress and the wall? This pillow is designed to fill that void seamlessly. When you do that, turn it around and put it into the gap - it sits flush with the bed.
Also Great as a Reading Back Support Pillow: While my primary need was a backing barrier against the wall, this wedge pillow surprised me with its versatility. It is adjustable to two angles and doubles as a reading pillow with back support as well as an elevation for a better sleeping position if needed. Bonus: side pockets for stashing the remote control and phone securely.
Props the Pillows in Front: I like pillows to be propped up pretty, and that's more difficult to achieve without a headboard. The wedge bolster provides a nice, even backing to prop the pillows against.
Easy to Clean: The 28D high-density foam perfectly blends softness and support. The pillowcase, made of breathable, hypoallergenic fabric, ensures a comfortable sleep experience throughout the seasons. And the best part? The cover is easily removable and machine-washable for hassle-free cleaning.
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| Side Pockets for Phones and Other Gadgets - Not quite the full shape here |
So, here's to my instant, easy solution—a bed wedge bolster that acts as a wall protector and elevates my comfort and style game in the spare room. Problem solved, just like that.
It's available in multiple bed sizes, comes in white or gray, is affordable, and is available on Amazon
Added Tip: When you're on Amazon, there are many other wedge bolsters in multiple angles and sizes. I chose this one because I wanted something subtle.
★★★★★
If you're interested in the bedding, here's more information about the bedspread...
As usual, there are often frequent changes in my home.
We've recently put another king-sized bed in one of the bedrooms (especially for company).
The new bed, of course, needed new bedding.
When it comes to beds, I'm admittedly quite particular. The way they're made can make or break the overall look, and I'm definitely not a fan of that loosy-goosy appearance. That's why I was pleasantly surprised to find that this one sits perfectly flat, just the way I like it.
Note that this is a bedspread, not a duvet! Duvets require an insert; this is not that.
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| Available on Amazon - Multiple Colors and Sizes - This one is California King Size |
No puffy look here: If you're after a thick, billowy appearance, this might not be your pick. However, for me, it's just perfect. It boasts a sleek and even presence on the bed that I prefer.
Height matters: This bedframe is 16 inches off the floor. Though this particular bedspread doesn't quite reach the floor (a preference of mine is that it would reach the floor), it still looks incredibly stylish. I measured it beforehand, so it wasn't a surprise, but it's worth noting.
Five stars: In my book, this quilt set earns a solid five stars. It's not only good-looking but also of acceptable quality. The subtle plaid and floral pattern is very pretty and adds a unique touch to the space. Plus, it's lightweight, making it a breeze to handle. And let's not forget the value for money – it's certainly a steal.
Unveiling the Quilt Ensemble:
This quilt set is a king-sized masterpiece composed of three essential elements. It boasts one Quilt measuring an expansive 96"x106" and a pair of Pillowcases at 20"x36". Together, they redefine the ambiance of your space with a captivating fusion of grey florals and plaid.
Elegant Floral Fusion:
The design is an amalgamation of floral motifs and paisley prints that gracefully adorn the washed patchwork. This infusion exudes an undeniable charm and a timeless elegance, bestowing upon this Quilt set the well-deserved status of the centerpiece in my bedroom decor.
Luxuriously Soft Microfiber Craftsmanship:
Crafted from the finest soft microfiber, this Quilt guarantees a cocoon of warmth and is not too warm all year round. Its versatility is further amplified by its reversible feature, allowing you to effortlessly alter your decor to match your ever-evolving mood.
All-Weather Versatility and Adaptability:
What sets this Quilt apart is its remarkable adaptability. It's an inviting cocoon during the breezy spring and sweltering summer months and is warm enough in the autumn and winter with extra blankets if needed.
Effortless Maintenance and Enduring Beauty:
Caring for this Quilt is a breeze. According to the manufacturer, it can be machine-washed in cold water, and a gentle tumble dry on a low setting is all it takes to keep it pristine. It resists fading, shrinking, and wrinkling. I still need to wash it, so I can't personally attest to the claim by the manufacturer. Although it's light enough that I can understand why it's easy to wash.
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| Available on Amazon |
Would I buy another? Yes, absolutely.
A 5-star review from Me! ★★★★★
Hey there, Halloween enthusiasts! Are you ready for some spooky, fun, and brain-teasing riddles that'll have you scratching your head in delight? 🕷️
This is the very Halloween Riddle Book you're familiar with! But, I've given it a thrilling makeover – now, every page features spooky black and white background art inspired by Halloween. This means that as you tackle each riddle, you'll also get to enjoy the cool visuals!"🎃📖🖌️
As a reminder, this book is Volume 5 of 7 of my personally written riddle book series.
Here is a Sample of the New Interior Look for Halloween Riddles:
The New Interior Look for Halloween Riddles - Available via StumpedRiddles or Amazon
Here's Another Page to Preview! Each Chapter Features a Different Photo Background:
.jpg "Interior of Halloween Riddles Book") |
| New Look Interior for Halloween Riddles - Available Via StumpedRiddles or Amazon |
🎮 This isn't just a book; it's a game, an adventure, your own personal Halloween-themed mind exercise book.
📜 Here's What You Get with Halloween Riddles:
🎃 Only original, uniquely crafted riddles – no cobwebs here!
📚 Eight spine-chilling chapter topics to sink your teeth into.
📷 Riddles served in photo format for an eerie visual twist – no boring text for you!
🕸️ Use these riddles for games, as teacher aids, party starters, creepy stocking stuffers, or your personal challenge if you're up for it.
🧟 All riddles follow the thrilling "What Am I" format.
👪 Family-friendly and fang-tastically fun!
🔑 Answers are neatly tucked away at the back of the book.
🕯️ Why should you pick up this book? Well, here's the lowdown: These riddles are one-of-a-kind, each designed to make you smile and scratch your head simultaneously.
They're easy to read; you won't need a cauldron full of magic to understand them. This book is the perfect addition to your Halloween celebrations and family gatherings.
Imagine the laughter and friendly competition around the table as you try to outsmart your friends and family with these bewitching brain teasers!
🎃 So, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy of Halloween Riddles and prepare for a spine-tingling, brain-teasing adventure that'll delightfully leave you howling! 🦇🌙
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| Halloween Riddles, Available on Amazon - Also in eBook Format |
Is your furniture stuck in the same old spot? It might be time for a change. Let's review this.
1. Solve the Urge to Move Without Moving:
Feeling the need for a change? That urge to sell your house and pack up your life might not be your only option. Moving is costly and disruptive. So, before you take the leap, consider a simpler solution: rearranging your furniture. Begin by giving your home a thorough cleaning, and while you're at it, think about changing the furniture layout for a fresh, inviting look.
2. A Deep Clean Opportunity:
When did you last vacuum behind your furniture? Probably not in a while, right? You also open the door to a thorough cleaning session when rearranging your furniture. Say goodbye to dust bunnies and hello to spotless and inviting rooms.
3. Transform Unused Spaces:
Your home should reflect your lifestyle. In today's ever-changing world, making the most of your space is vital. That underused living room could become a media room, office, or library. It's all about making your home work for you. Or simply rearrange it to breathe new life into the space, making it more inviting for guests.
4. If Your Family Doesn't Need a Dining Room, Swap the Room Out For Another Use:
Who says a dining room has to be a dining room? If your family rarely uses a particular space, switch it up. Say goodbye to the dining room and hello to something more practical. For example, turn it into a home office, another sitting room, a playroom, or a meditation space!
Our home's original floor plan features a living/dining room combination. Since our family is quite large and we need a big table, the living room has been transformed into a dining room and the dining room into my office.
Here's a personal example: Our home's designated dining room area is now my office. When the kids were little, it was one huge gathering room ... Over the years, it's been changed multiple times.
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| Dining Room into an Office Area |
5. Revamp the Traditional:
Traditional floor plans are so last season. Don't be afraid to break the mold. Turn a family room into a game room, a living room into an office, or that unused dining room into a guest room or play area. These days, there's no such thing as a defined floor plan. Whatever works for your home is all that matters.
We're slowly empty-nesting and recently turned one of our five bedrooms into a TV/sitting room:
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| Bedroom to a TV Sitting Room |
6. Achieve a Sense of Accomplishment:
Rearranging your furniture is a labor of love. It's hard work, but the payoff is incredible. Psychology Today even has a scientific explanation for this.
Your home will feel fresh and exciting, and your family will appreciate the change. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your hard-earned satisfaction with a cup of tea or a glass of wine.
In the end, remember that changing your furniture layout can be a fun and cost-effective way to breathe new life into your space without the hassle of moving.
Give it a try and see how your home and mood transform!
Hey there, fellow seekers of good vibes and positive energy! Today, once again, we're diving headfirst into the fascinating world of Feng Shui.
For the past two Feng Shui articles, we discussed whether your bed was in the "coffin position" and whether you should have a mirror in the bedroom. Today, we'll cover the "Wealth Corner" of your home.
Let's start with the basics: Did you know that your home and each room have their own little money magnets called wealth corners? Yep, you heard me right. Money corners!
The Two Ways to Find Your Wealth Corner
So, how do you locate these elusive pockets of wealth energy? There are two schools of thought here: Classical Feng Shui and Western Feng Shui. Today, we're keeping things laid-back and going Western.
The Western Bagua Map:
Point 1: Locate Your Wealth Corner
Point 2: Embrace the Element of Wealth
Now, here's where things get colorful – literally. According to the Feng Shui Bagua Map, the element that brings the big bucks is wood, and the color choices are as vibrant as a rainbow: purple, green, gold, red, and blue.
Ready to Decorate Your Wealth Corner? Here's What You Can Do:
Wood Frames: Picture this - a wooden-framed photo featuring a wealth-related scene, like a tropical beach holiday or a luxurious cruise ship. Just make sure that the water feature is squeaky clean. If you're jazzing up your bedroom's wealth corner, hang that photo above a dresser and add a tabletop waterfall. Some say you shouldn't have water in the bedroom, but hey, it's your call!
Plants and Mirrors: For some leafy green charm, consider Bamboo, a Money Tree, or a Fern. Or, throw a mirror into the mix, just not in your bedroom. Still, some folks swear it's no biggie, so do what feels right for you.
Shapes and Crystals: Go rectangular with a wooden accessory housing Citrine or Pyrite Crystals. If those crystals are large and in charge, let them shine as the star of your wealth corner show.
Bowl of Oranges: Oranges are a symbol of good luck and wealth, so create a lovely presentation for your wealth corner that happens to be in the kitchen.
Position a Tortoise or a Money Frog in your Wealth Corner: Choose ones made of glass, resins, mud, metals, wood, and crystals
An Added Overall Tip: Paint your front door red; yep, you heard correctly. Red. Red is considered good luck and is said to bring opportunity and good luck to a home. Darn! My door is blue!.
Declutter, Declutter, Declutter!
Whether you're a Feng Shui enthusiast or just tidying up, remember to keep your space clean and clutter-free. That way, positive energy can flow like a champ throughout the room. Bright lighting, groovy tunes, pleasant scents, and a touch of candle magic can also work wonders.
Hold Up! What NOT to Include in Your Money Corner:
There you have it, folks – the secret to unlocking wealth energy in your home. Go forth, decorate those wealth corners, and let the money vibes flow!
Hi again - Will you shiver with fright? Here is another haunted Feng Shui principle to get stuck in your head!
With over 25 years in the real estate world, I've stumbled upon all sorts of interior decorating do's and don'ts. But for this blog post, we will dive into the mysterious realm of Feng Shui and its peculiar concept - the 'Coffin Position' for your bed placement. Don't fret; it's not as ominous as it sounds!
I'm no Feng Shui guru, but I've had my fair share of chats with folks who swear by its importance. So, what exactly is this 'Coffin Position' hullabaloo?
If your bed lines up perfectly with your bedroom door, congratulations, you've got yourself a 'Coffin Position' bed. This means your feet point straight to the door; according to Feng Shui, that's a big no-no. Apparently, this eerie alignment drains your energy while you snooze. Spooky, right?
Believe it or Not: The Power of Belief in Feng Shui
Before you panic, remember belief is a potent force in our lives. If you're a Feng Shui enthusiast, the position of your bed is the key to a good night's sleep. So, let's not brush it off too quickly!
Positioning Your Way to Zen
Now, if you're thinking, "Okay, I'm sold on this Feng Shui stuff, what do I do?"
The Feng Shui experts suggest adjusting your bed so your feet don't directly point at the door. It's as simple as that!
A little tweak in your bed's position can work wonders, and the best part is you get to decide how to make it happen.
My Feng Shui Bedtime Epiphany
I couldn't help but check out the bedrooms in my humble abode after stumbling upon the term 'coffin position' (a tad creepy, don't you think?).
Lo and behold, not a single bed in my house aligns with the dreaded door. It's pure coincidence, I assure you! It seems like I've unknowingly been following Feng Shui's rules all along.
Phew! Crisis averted.
Maybe not; it feels like my energy is drained every night anyway! For nearly all of 2023, I've felt totally exhausted!
Breaking the Rules...Or Not?
Now, you might wonder, "What's the worst that could happen if I disregard this Feng Shui rule?"
Well, the logical side of you might scoff and say, "Absolutely nothing!" After all, we're not superstitious, right? Or are we? Some folks avoid walking under ladders, fear stepping on cracks, and treat mirrors like fragile relics.
To each their own, I say!
😈😈😈😈😈😈😈😈😈
In the end, what matters most is your personal preference. If you're a Feng Shui believer and want to dodge that 'Coffin Position,' go for it.
If not, you've got a good chuckle out of it. Decorate your space your way, my friends! 🛏️✨
🏠🏠🏠🏠🏠🏠🏠🏠🏠
Feng Shui Basics – Understanding and Implementing Feng Shui into Your Home Decor
Mirror placement in the bedroom has always been a topic of intrigue and debate in the world of Feng Shui. If you've ever ventured into the depths of the Internet for clarity on this matter, you're probably feeling as bewildered as a cow on Astroturf. Allow me to guide you through this mystifying realm.
Is It Bad Luck to Have a Mirror in the Bedroom?
So, is it bad luck to have a mirror in the bedroom? The answer, according to Feng Shui, is yes.
Depending on your perspective, there are three fundamental beliefs, myths, or truths regarding mirrors in the bedroom.
1. Mirror and the Soul: A Dance in the Night
First up, we have the notion that a mirror in your bedroom can inadvertently or even intentionally steal your soul while you slumber. This peculiar belief is rooted in the idea that our souls temporarily depart from our bodies when we sleep. With a mirror in the room, the concern is that your soul might get a little confused and choose the mirror over your body. Some folks even argue that this isn't a problem unless you're on the elderly side or gravely ill.
Like most people, we have mirrors in our bedroom, and if my soul has been stolen, that would explain a lot! (Do I need to add the lol there?)
2. Mirrors and the Peril of Infidelity
Then, there's the belief that having a mirror in the bedroom can spell trouble in the fidelity department. According to this school of thought, a mirror symbolizes a third party in your relationship, essentially inviting trouble into your love life.
3. A Startling Reflection: Midnight Mirror Moments
Last but not least, there's the advice to avoid positioning a mirror where you can catch a glimpse of your reflection from your bed. The reasoning here is that if you happen to wake up in the middle of the night and spot your own reflection, you might startle yourself, suspecting the presence of a ghost or an intruder in the room.
What's the Truth Behind These Beliefs?
Now, the burning question is: are any of these claims true? Well, there's no straightforward answer to that, my friend. Why? Because what's gospel truth to one person is pure fiction to another.
It all comes down to your belief system. If you're a fervent follower of Feng Shui, these points might be cause for serious consideration. On the other hand, if you're intrigued by the concept but find it a tad hard to swallow, you might walk away from this article with nothing more than a hearty chuckle, and excessive eye-rolling.
Mirror Dilemmas and Superstitious Solutions
But what if you've never really worried about this mirror business, and now you're feeling a bit spooked? Don't fret. If a touch of superstition courses through your veins and you've already got mirrors in your bedroom, you can always cover them up at night with a sheet or some drapes. The mirrors should ideally have a frame, no beveling, and be a single piece instead of assembled squares.
I get it; I've been there too. In fact, one of my sons has a mirrored closet door in his room, right across from his bed! But I'm not planning to drape those mirrors anytime soon ... So far as I can tell, his soul hasn't been stolen... I think.
Recently, I've had to protect the light-colored furniture in our newly created TV room upstairs.
We have family staying for a while, and the beige sofa and chairs need a little extra protection. As most of you know, my mom recently passed away; this furniture is from her living room. Needless to say, I'm a bit overprotective of it.
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| Note: The chairs are not covered in these photos. They have since been covered with the same product. |
Here's a fun side note: When I backpacked through Europe in 1978, I picked up those three photos on the back wall from the streets of Paris - they were in my mom's upstairs hallway from 1978 to 2021, now they're in my home. The needlepoint deer was made by my grandmother (my mom's mom, and when mom passed, it came to me) - The furniture is also my mom's, so we affectionately refer to this little tv room as "The History Room." There's a cabinet with more photo memories and a tv on the other wall.
★★★★★ - 5 Stars from me. Purchaser approved.
You Can Find These Lovely Cushion Covers on Amazon Here
It's been two years since I first introduced the Cubii into my daily routine, and I'm thrilled to report that my enthusiasm for this ingenious under-desk elliptical has only grown stronger with time.
Reflecting on my journey with this fitness companion, one thing stands out above all else – it's not just a piece of exercise equipment but an integral part of my work and wellness lifestyle.
Today, I want to share why I'm still head over heels for my Cubii and how it's helped me stay active while sitting at my desk.
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| My Cubii - I Still Love it! |
I don't smoke, but I do sit - a lot - to write.
1. Unmatched Convenience: The ability to engage in physical movement while working, writing, or even answering emails was a game-changer.
Two years in, this convenience remains its most exceptional feature. It effortlessly tucks under my desk, waiting to be summoned for action. I'm pedaling right now as I'm writing this article.
Whether I'm deep into writing a blog post, books, riddles, or website building, the Cubii is always at my feet, encouraging me to keep pedaling and stay active.
When I'm not consciously pedaling, I rest my feet on the pedals and find myself mindlessly slow pedaling. Whether it's intended or not, I'm active while sitting.
2. Guilt-Free Productivity: Sitting for prolonged periods used to fill me with guilt, knowing that a sedentary lifestyle can have adverse health effects.
Thanks to my Cubii, that guilt has been replaced by a sense of accomplishment. I can work diligently and effectively at my desk without sacrificing my physical well-being.
Two years of using the Cubii has helped me maintain my fitness goals without compromising my productivity. It's a win-win that keeps me motivated day in and day out.
3. Stress Relief and Focus: Beyond the physical benefits, the Cubii has also proven to be an unexpected stress relief tool. When work gets hectic, or stress starts to creep in, a few minutes of pedaling on the Cubii work wonders to clear my mind and regain focus.
It's like a mini wellness break that refreshes both body and mind, allowing me to tackle tasks with renewed vigor. This aspect of my Cubii experience has undoubtedly contributed to my long-lasting affection for this equipment.
Every Business Should Put One Under Their Employee's Desks
Businesses should consider placing a Cubii under every desk jockey's workstation.
The health benefits that this innovative device brings are undeniable. Companies can better foster a culture of well-being and productivity by providing employees with the means to stay active while sitting and working.
It's not just about physical fitness; it's about enhancing mental clarity, reducing stress, and improving job satisfaction.
When employees can pedal away stress and maintain their health effortlessly during the workday, it's a win-win situation for both the individuals and the organization.
In pursuing a healthier and happier workforce, integrating Cubii desk ellipticals is a game-changing strategy that businesses should seriously consider. That's my opinion anyway.
In conclusion, after two years of continuous use, my Cubii remains a cherished companion in my daily life. Its convenience, guilt-free productivity, and stress-relief capabilities have made it indispensable to my wellness and work-life journey.
If you're considering integrating fitness into your work routine or simply want to stay active while sitting at your desk, try the Cubii. It's a small investment with potentially significant returns for your health and productivity - it has helped me.
I would never have a desk without a Cubii underneath - I love pedaling away while I type. It makes me feel like I'm getting somewhere :)
★★★★★
Five stars for the Cubii! - Oh, and it's still quiet - it makes no noise while pedaling. No squeaks, no maintenance required.
The Cubi is Available on Amazon.
I've recently completed my 32nd published activity book, and this one is a fun word search puzzle about Halloween witches and their goof-ups! Step into a world where witches aren't brewing potions, but they're stirring up giggles and guffaws!
I'm breaking all the witchy rules this Halloween with a word search experience unlike anything you've seen before. Welcome to the enchanting realm of Witchy Boo-Boos, where the magic of laughter meets the spirit of Halloween.
🔮 Discover Witchy Mishaps: Dive headfirst into a spellbinding universe filled with comically disastrous adventures and quirky witchy escapades. These aren't your typical spells; they're hilarious blunders, mishaps, and bewitching bloopers that'll leave you in stitches!
🕷️ Hashtag Hauntings: It's like a social media feed from the witching world! Solve word clusters that resemble hashtags - guess the phrase, find the phrase, and let the hilarity ensue.
🎃 1440 Phrases and Words to Unearth: Get ready for a delightful challenge as you uncover 1440 bewitching phrases and words. Each word search is a potion of amusement, guaranteed to tickle your funny bone and cast a chuckling spell on you.
🧹 Cackle-Worthy Confessions: Brace yourself for fits of laughter as you stumble upon funny, sarcastic, and eye-rolling boo-boos and witchy bloopers. These spellbinding slip-ups will have you howling with glee and enchanted by the whimsical world of the Broomstick Brigade.
I've brewed up 60 puzzles, each telling a tale of a wacky witchy escapade or mishap.
Here's a sneak peek at some of the puzzle titles you'll be unraveling:
⏱️ Race Against Time: Unleash your competitive spirit as you race against the clock to conquer each spellbinding puzzle. Challenge yourself or fellow puzzle enthusiasts to see who can master the witchy quest with lightning speed!
📚 Enchantment on Every Page: Dive into an enchanting experience with one puzzle per page, designed for easy readability and maximum enjoyment. And when you're ready to reveal the magic behind the words, rest assured that the answers to your witchy riddles are tucked away at the back of the book.
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| Available on Amazon |
What Makes This Halloween Word Search Book Different?
I aim to make unique word search books. This book is another one of those original creations. The word phrases to find range from funny, silly, and humorous to eye-rolling. All created by this witch in spirit!
Plus, it's a game that lets you compete with yourself or friends to claim the title of the ultimate witchy word searcher.
I thoroughly enjoy designing, creating, and writing funny word search books, so you'll always get something original.
Here's a Sample Puzzle for You!
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| Halloween Witch Word Search by StumpedBooks |
Let me start by saying that I'm not a meditation guru!
Although I've read mountains on the subject, I didn't start actively practicing meditation in a committed way until March of this year (2023)
What I've learned about meditating is .... it takes practice, and consistency is key.
I've actually progressed into learning more and more about the power of the mind ... and I'm loving every second of it!
I know – when you hear "meditation," it might conjure images of monks perched atop misty mountaintops, but trust me, it's not all incense and pretzel-like poses.
Meditation is like a soothing balm for your mind, and today, I'll explore how it basically works its magic and why it's becoming more popular than cat videos on the internet!
Life is a non-stop rollercoaster with ups, downs, and loop-de-loops that make your head spin faster than a ball rolling down a hill! That's where meditation struts in wearing a superhero cape.
At its core, meditation is like a mini-vacation for your brain – a chance to give your mind a breather from the constant barrage of thoughts, worries, and to-do lists that make your mental landscape look like Times Square on New Year's Eve.
Now, I get it – sitting still and quieting your thoughts might sound about as easy as juggling flamingos. I can tell you I still suck at it! But I keep going and am getting much better!
Meditation isn't about turning your brain into an empty void (I haven't been close to achieving that!). It's more like a gym session for your gray matter, training it to focus, de-stress, and especially kick out the negativity that overstays its welcome.
The Basics
Start by finding a cozy corner where you won't be interrupted (a.k.a. no one bursting in asking if you've seen their left sock) and get comfy.
You don't need fancy gear or a backdrop of crashing waves – just you and your willingness to give it a shot - and a guided meditation video if you need help getting started. I've featured the one below that I love and use daily.
As you settle in, you'll discover that meditation comes in various flavors, like a buffet of mindfulness.
Here are Two Popular Choices for Meditation:
Focused Attention Meditation
Imagine your mind as a hyperactive puppy – In this meditation, you gently bring your wandering pup back to its designated spot whenever it goes on a wild adventure. Usually, that spot is your breath. Breathe in, breathe out – it's like the rhythm of life that's always there, waiting to be your anchor in those endless sea of thoughts.
Loving-Kindness Meditation
I practice this one daily. I meditate for a half an hour in the morning, and it's turning out to be the best half-hour of my day.
This one's all about dishing out warm fuzzies, not unlike sharing virtual hugs with the universe.
You start by sending good vibes to yourself (because you're awesome, duh!), and then gradually extend those vibes to friends, family, and even that grumpy neighbor who scowls like it's their day job. It's like watering the garden of your heart and watching kindness bloom.
"My personal meditation involves seeing each of my children, with their families, in their homes, happy, healthy, and financially at peace. I visualize hubby and I visting each of them. The photos in my mind about my kids and my own life have become so real to me, that now I look forward to meditating so I can visit that wonderful manifestation and play with my future grandchildren"
How Meditation Has Helped Me:
My Personal Favorite Guided Meditation Video:
I use this video daily, along with a few others, from time to time. However, so far, this one ranks top for me. The meditation guide has a lovely soothing voice, and I love the way she uses a train ride to get into the life you want.
(Here's the video on YouTube if you're having problems seeing the video below.)
Some of the Basic Benefits:
Now, let's talk benefits – because who doesn't want a slice of mental and emotional awesome sauce?
Scientifically speaking, meditation has been found to reduce stress, boost focus and creativity (hello, productivity guru), and even improve your relationship with Mr. Sandman for those sweet ZZZs.
Think of meditation as a gym for your mind, minus the sweaty workout gear. With regular practice – and trust me, consistency is key here – you'll start noticing changes.
Maybe you'll handle that traffic jam without turning into the Hulk. Perhaps you'll catch yourself before a thought spiral drags you down. And just maybe, you'll find a sense of calm that feels like a warm cup of cocoa for your soul.
So, there you have it, intrepid explorers of the inner world – meditation demystified and made as approachable as a lazy Sunday morning. Remember, it's not about doing it "perfectly" but showing up and giving your mind a little love. Whether you're a zen master in training or a meditation newbie, the path to a more centered you are just a few deep breaths away.
"NOTE: A key insight I've gained about visualization is the importance of truly immersing yourself in the experience. It's not just about thinking of what you're manifesting; it's about embracing it as if it's already woven into the fabric of your reality. It's like stepping into the vibrant new world you've meticulously crafted and feeling its existence all around you"
Once my meditation session is over, I add a four-minute "prayer for others. The day is ALWAYS better when I meditate.
A Good Book and Place to Start
I'll leave you with a quote by the best-selling author Dr. Joe Dispenza, from his book "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself: How to Lose Your Mind and Create a New One"
“Meditating is also a means for you to move beyond your analytical mind so that you can access your subconscious mind. That’s crucial, since the subconscious is where all your bad habits and behaviors that you want to change reside.”
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