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Party central
From party frocks to invites and Christmas cocktails, we've got everything you need to throw a fabulous party
From party frocks to invites and Christmas cocktails, we've got everything you need to throw a fabulous party
Winter soul warmers
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Alternative solutions
Complementary medicines can be helpful when there are black clouds hovering. For an aromatherapy enhancement, add essential oils to a burner, such as clary sage, lavender, rose or ylang ylang. Or speak to a homeopathic practitioner about the right supplement to help lift your state of mind : ignatia battles depression and heartbreak ; nat mur eases the effects of bottling up emotions ; pulsatilla alleviates feelings of neediness or tearfulness; and sepia helps reduce irritability.
Do something new
If it's an effort to muster up motivation, extra stimulation might give you a boost. Extend your challenges by signing up for a course, or taking up a new hobby - just ensure you don't overstretch or overload yourself or it will prove counter- productive.
Charity work
According to studies by the CSV (Community Service Volunteers), becoming a volunteer helps overcome stress and depression. Not only is it rewarding to help others, but you might find yourself introduced to a friendly new community. Consider doing something that you already love which fits in with your life; maybe flower arranging at your local hospital, walking dogs at an animal home, delivering food parcels to the elderly or infirm or assisting at a charity shop. The TimeBank is an organisation that matches people, their time and skills, to the right opportunities.
Sing your heart out
Singing is the perfect stress-busting activity, as it releases those much-needed feel-good chemicals. 'As well as producing endorphins, it helps you let out pent-up feelings and emotions,' says vocal coach, Heather Mair Thomas. 'Learning a basic singing technique teaches you to breathe deeply and relax your whole body. Go from stressed out to chilled out in a few minutes.' Find a teacher through Vocalist or try Heather's workout CD Free Your Voice - singing in the car, or while doing the housework, has never felt so productive.
Alternative solutions
Complementary medicines can be helpful when there are black clouds hovering. For an aromatherapy enhancement, add essential oils to a burner, such as clary sage, lavender, rose or ylang ylang. Or speak to a homeopathic practitioner about the right supplement to help lift your state of mind : ignatia battles depression and heartbreak ; nat mur eases the effects of bottling up emotions ; pulsatilla alleviates feelings of neediness or tearfulness; and sepia helps reduce irritability.
Do something new
If it's an effort to muster up motivation, extra stimulation might give you a boost. Extend your challenges by signing up for a course, or taking up a new hobby - just ensure you don't overstretch or overload yourself or it will prove counter- productive.
Charity work
According to studies by the CSV (Community Service Volunteers), becoming a volunteer helps overcome stress and depression. Not only is it rewarding to help others, but you might find yourself introduced to a friendly new community. Consider doing something that you already love which fits in with your life; maybe flower arranging at your local hospital, walking dogs at an animal home, delivering food parcels to the elderly or infirm or assisting at a charity shop. The TimeBank is an organisation that matches people, their time and skills, to the right opportunities.
Sing your heart out
Singing is the perfect stress-busting activity, as it releases those much-needed feel-good chemicals. 'As well as producing endorphins, it helps you let out pent-up feelings and emotions,' says vocal coach, Heather Mair Thomas. 'Learning a basic singing technique teaches you to breathe deeply and relax your whole body. Go from stressed out to chilled out in a few minutes.' Find a teacher through Vocalist or try Heather's workout CD Free Your Voice - singing in the car, or while doing the housework, has never felt so productive.
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