My youngest made a cute pompom this week ☺
Why I hate phone calls
Friday, 1 March 2024
Hey readers,
In a world buzzing with constant connectivity, the mere ring of a phone can send shivers down my spine.
It's not an aversion to technology or a disdain for communication; rather, it's an unwavering dislike for that seemingly innocuous act—the phone call.
1. Invasion of Space.
The sudden jolt of a ringing phone disrupts the tranquil space I carve for myself in a world filled with noise.
Whether engrossed in work or immersed in a good book, the shrill interruption is an unwelcome intrusion, shattering the sanctuary of solitude I cherish.
2. Communication Preferences.
In a world dominated by rapid-fire texting and instant messaging, phone calls feel like relics from a bygone era.
The beauty of composing thoughtful responses at my own pace is lost when confined to the pressure of real-time conversations.
The asynchronous nature of written communication aligns better with the rhythm of my thoughts.
3. Lack of Non-Verbal Cues.
The absence of visual cues in phone calls creates a communication vacuum. Facial expressions, body language, and the subtleties of emotion are lost in translation.
Misunderstandings become inevitable, leading to a frustrating game of deciphering intentions through voice alone.
4. Social Anxiety and Phone Calls.
For many, phone calls induce a unique breed of anxiety. The immediacy of a conversation puts one on the spot, leaving little room for contemplation or filtering.
It's a battle against the fear of saying the wrong thing, an experience that can be paralyzing for those who grapple with social anxiety.
5. Multitasking Challenges.
Efficient multitasking becomes a Herculean task during phone calls. Unlike text-based communication that allows for seamless toggling between tasks, a phone call demands undivided attention.
The struggle to balance work or chores while engaged in conversation adds an extra layer of inconvenience.
6. The Rise of Digital Nomads and Remote Work.
The paradigm shift towards remote work has emphasized the need for flexible communication.
Digital nomads, tethered to laptops and scattered across time zones, find solace in the written word a mode that transcends temporal boundaries and aligns with the nomadic lifestyle.
7. Technological Advances and Alternatives.
In an era where technological innovation propels us forward, alternatives to traditional phone calls abound.
Voice messages, video calls, and collaborative platforms offer a spectrum of choices that cater to diverse communication preferences.
The static nature of a voice call pales in comparison to the dynamic possibilities offered by modern technology.
8. Cultural Shifts in Communication.
As societal attitudes toward communication evolve, my aversion to phone calls finds resonance with others.
The shared sentiment that phone calls are becoming an antiquated means of interaction reflects a broader cultural shift towards embracing diverse modes of expression.
In conclusion, my disdain for phone calls is not a dismissal of connection but rather a plea for a more harmonious coexistence with the technology that governs our lives.
As I navigate this cacophony of communication channels, I find solace in the silence between the rings a space where my thoughts can breathe and my words can resonate with intention, unencumbered by the constraints of a phone call.
Cheers for reading x
A Comprehensive Guide on How to Effectively Deal with PMDD
Monday, 26 February 2024
Hey readers,
If you feel like your hormones hijack your moods, motivation, and basic functioning abilities for up to two weeks every month before your period, you could be dealing with a condition called Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).
The good news is that you don’t have to suffer through PMDD quietly or alone. Several effective treatment options and lifestyle adjustments can help you regain control of your monthly cycle.
Read on to understand what causes PMDD, who’s at risk, and most importantly what real steps you can take to ease PMDD symptoms and stop feeling so powerless against monthly mood swings.
What Causes PMDD?
Researchers believe that women with PMDD react more severely to normal fluctuations in hormones like estragon and progesterone throughout their menstrual cycles.
Key PMDD hormonal triggers include:
* Estragon levels drop dramatically just before your period starts.
* Changes occur in brain chemicals like serotonin, a mood stabiliser
Doctors don’t fully understand why some women’s bodies react so intensely to normal hormonal shifts.
But certain risk factors make some women more prone to PMDD including:
* Family history of mood disorders.
* Personal history of a mood disorder like depression or anxiety.
* History of postpartum depression after giving birth.
5 Key Solutions & Coping Strategies.
If PMDD is wreaking havoc with your menstrual cycles, know that you have options. Start finding what works for you from these effective PMDD treatment strategies:
* Track to find triggers: Chart your cycles plus mood changes to identify PMDD timing and effective solutions. Tracking helps you feel empowered, not helpless.
* Therapy provides perspective: Talk therapy helps identify unhealthy thought patterns making PMDD feel worse. A professional’s outside perspective equips you with new coping skills.
* Lifestyle changes relieve stress: Reducing stress through rest, moderate exercise, healthy eating, and no alcohol/drugs can help stabilise mood swings.
* Birth control regulates hormones: Hormonal IUDs or birth control pills provide the hormones your body lacks to balance moods.
* SSRIs alleviate serotonin drops: Antidepressants like Sertraline used 2 weeks before your period counter the serotonin deficiency behind low moods.
You Don’t Have to Hide Your Struggles.
Half of all menstruating individuals deal with some form of PMS. Yet only around 5 per cent suffer from true, diagnosed PMDD.
Recognising and owning the reality of PMDD brings the freedom to choose healthier thoughts, behaviours, and coping mechanisms.
When you understand the hormonal shifts behind PMDD rather than believing the issue is your character, it’s easier to find compassion for yourself and solutions.
The key is uncovering what combination of lifestyle changes, medications, therapy, tracking, openness, and education helps you thrive through every phase of your cycle, not just the “good weeks”.
Take back your life from PMDD so you can function fully, freely, and consistently regardless of your menstrual phase.
You deserve to live unleashed from disabling monthly mood disruptions. It’s possible!
Cheers for reading X
My Sunday photo 25/02/2024
Sunday, 25 February 2024
So nice to have some sunshine for once to go for a walk!
How to make homemade playdoh.
Friday, 23 February 2024
Hey readers,
Playdough is a classic childhood favourite. It's a versatile, squishy, and colourful material that can provide hours of creative fun for kids (and adults!) of all ages.
The best part is that you can make your very own playdough right at home. In this blog post, we'll walk you through a simple and fun DIY playdough recipe that you can whip up in no time.
Ingredients You'll Need.
* 2 cups of all-purpose flour.
* 3/4 cup of salt.
* 4 teaspoons of cream of tartar.
* 2 cups of water.
* 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
* Food colouring (choose your favourite colours).
* A medium-sized saucepan.
* A mixing spoon.
* A stovetop.
Method.
1. Mixing the dry ingredients.
Begin by mixing the flour, salt, and cream of tartar in a medium-sized saucepan. Make sure you have a sturdy, heat-resistant spoon for this task.
2. Adding wet ingredients.
After the dry ingredients are well mixed, add the water and vegetable oil to the saucepan. Stir everything together until it forms a smooth, lump-free mixture.
3. Cooking the dough.
Place the saucepan on the stovetop over low-medium heat. Continue to stir the mixture constantly. The dough will start to thicken and pull away from the sides of the pan. This process typically takes 2-3 minutes.
4. Colouring your playdough.
Once the dough has come together, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. Now is the time to add some vibrant colours!
Create a small well in the centre of your dough and add a few drops of food colouring.
Fold and knead the dough until the colour is evenly distributed. Keep in mind that food colouring can be quite potent, so start with a few drops and add more if needed.
5. Store and play.
Allow your homemade playdough to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers or plastic bags. Make sure it's tightly sealed to keep the playdough fresh.
Congratulations! You've just created your very own batch of homemade playdough.
Not only is it a cost-effective alternative to store-bought playdough, but it's also an engaging DIY project to do with your children.
Tips and Tricks.
* If your playdough feels too sticky, you can knead in a bit more flour. Conversely, if it's too dry, add a small amount of water.
* Experiment with different colours and even add some glitter for extra sparkle.
* To keep your playdough fresh, store it in an airtight container or zip-lock bag. It can last for several weeks if properly stored.
* Playdough can be a fun tool for sensory play. Consider adding items like buttons, beads, or small toys to enhance the tactile experience.
* This DIY playdough recipe is non-toxic and safe for children, but always supervise young children during playtime.
Whether you're a parent looking for a creative activity to keep your kids engaged or an adult seeking a stress-relieving hobby, making homemade playdough is a delightful project that offers endless possibilities for imaginative play.
So, roll up your sleeves, get creative with colours, and enjoy the squishy, mouldable world of homemade playdough!
Cheers for reading X
What to expect when going for cervical screening.
Monday, 19 February 2024
Hey readers,
Entering the realm of cervical screenings can be a mix of anticipation and uncertainty for many women in the UK.
If you're gearing up for your first cervical screening or just curious about the process, here's a glimpse into what you can expect.
1. The Invitation.
It typically starts with a letter from your local National Health Service (NHS) inviting you for a cervical screening.
The letter includes essential details such as the purpose of the test, the venue, and how to schedule your appointment.
It's a proactive step towards ensuring women's health, emphasizing the importance of regular screenings.
2. Scheduling the Appointment.
Upon receiving the invitation, it's time to schedule your appointment. Most screenings are conducted at your GP's surgery or a local sexual health clinic.
Be sure to choose a date and time that suits your schedule, as this ensures you're in a calm and comfortable mindset for the procedure.
3. The Screening Process.
When the day arrives, a trained healthcare professional, often a nurse, will guide you through the process.
The screening involves taking a small sample of cells from the cervix using a soft brush.
While it might be momentarily uncomfortable, the procedure is quick and generally painless.
Communicate any concerns or anxieties with the healthcare provider to make the experience more manageable.
4. Confidentiality and Privacy.
Rest assured, your privacy is a top priority during cervical screenings.
The healthcare professional will ensure you're comfortable and adequately covered throughout the process.
They are well-trained to maintain confidentiality, fostering an environment where you feel secure discussing your health.
5. Results and Follow-up.
After the screening, the collected sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
It usually takes a few weeks to receive the results. The letter you receive will clearly explain the findings.
Most screenings come back normal, offering reassurance. If abnormalities are detected, don't panic it doesn't necessarily indicate cancer.
Further tests or treatments may be recommended based on the severity of the findings.
6. Emotional Support.
It's normal to feel a range of emotions during and after the screening process.
If you have concerns or questions, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
Emotional support is an integral part of the screening journey, and professionals are there to address your needs and provide guidance.
7. Regular Screenings.
Cervical screenings are generally recommended every three to five years, depending on your age and previous results.
Consistency in attending screenings is crucial for early detection and effective prevention.
In conclusion, undergoing a cervical screening in the UK is a vital step towards maintaining your reproductive health.
By understanding the process and embracing the regular screenings, you empower yourself with knowledge and contribute to the proactive care of your well-being.
Remember, you're not alone – the healthcare professionals are there to guide you every step of the way.
Cheers for reading X
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