Article Collection

Saturday, June 22, 2019

The Wim Hof Method

Written on May 14, 2019 UNPAID

The Wim Hof Method

Wim Hof is just an ordinary guy, married and has children. There was nothing special about him, he just happened to feel unhappy and helpless in his life. One cold morning, his sudden decision to plunge into the ice cold water changed him. It gave him an intense moment of healing and from then on, he has found his purpose in life.

Who is Wim Hof and Why is He So Popular?

Wim Hof is a Dutchman who recently gained the popular nickname “The Iceman” because of his extraordinary feat. He has demonstrated physical resilience as he face extremely cold temperatures and environments. Currently, he is the holder of 20 world records for staying in an ice bath for more than an hour.

He first appeared in 2008 in a documentary that featured the “Real Superhuman” as well as on the television show called the Quest for the Future Fantastics. His exploits have impressed and intrigued his viewers especially when he continued his incredible feats such as running a marathon on the Arctic circle while wearing only a pair of shorts, raising his core temperature even while submerged in freezing water and climbing part of Mt Everest without oxygen and wearing only shorts.

Some people may consider Wim Hof as a “freak of nature,” or someone with really special abilities. But when he said that what he does can also be learned and developed by others more curious followers were intrigued.  

What is the Wim Hof Method?

The Wim Hof Method is the actual practice or the online video course where Wim Hof teaches people about his breathing exercises, exposure to cold temperatures as well as flexibility and strength exercises.  

This method is not just for people who want to achieve the same extreme resistance or resilience to the cold. People who want to ignite their inner strength, experience better well-being, and well-feeling may also benefit from the WHM.

Healing Oneself with the Wim Hof Method

After several followers have testified about the health benefits and advantages of the Wim Hof Method, more people have started trying it out to find healing and relief for various health conditions such as inflammations, arthritis, Parkinson’s disease and depression.

Can this method seriously help with depression? Wim Hof is not a doctor, but what he’s suffered is depression. He did not feel well, he was empty, there was disengagement and like he was sinking. All these are the opposite of feeling and being alive, having energy, passion or vitality.   

Cold showers are known to effectively combat ill-feelings and the methods used by Wim Hof could be as effective because there is the rush of positive feelings and it re-connects your feelings with your body again.

People who’ve tried the WHM testifies the experiencing several health benefits. They are revitalized with boosted energy levels. After each session, the experience lower stress and they have improved focus and concentration. The method is also said to have strengthened their immune system helps them recover better and more quickly.




Wim Hof Methods and Science  

Wim Hof do not consider his feats as acts to prove something or gain something. He even consider them as “circus acts.” Like others he also want to discover what is really happening. And recently, he started collaborating with the academic and scientific world to gather proof of the benefits that his methods have for the body and mind.

Steps in the Wim Hof Method

There are three major parts in the famous Wim Hof Method.

1. The Breathing Technique

This part of the method will teach you some breathing techniques that will help in heat generation and awaken the fire in your body. Practicing this regularly is said to produce a warmer feeling afterwards.

2. Commitment and Focus

This second part of the method will help and test your commitment and focus. This will challenge you out of your comfort zone so that you can move beyond boundaries. This is where one will discover that things actually go by themselves and you don’t need much effort to conquer your challenges. The exercises and challenges usually ends with a cold shower.

3. Cold Shower Therapy

Gradual exposure to cold showers improves a person’s cardiovascular system. The veins grow stronger and become trained to pump more blood and warmed to the body’s outer extremities. You will be encouraged to take cold showers after a normally warm one. The temperature is set colder every day until the body becomes used to the temperature.

Final Thoughts on the Wim Hof Method

His methods may sound a bit extreme for some, but people are recognizing his ground-breaking work. This feats were previously deemed impossible by science but further studies are being conducted to learn more about the mysteries of the human body through him.

The Wim Hof methods could have huge impact in areas of depression and other illnesses. Presently, there are more people who are willing to take the chance for healing and self-discovery with his methods, which despite being extreme, has certainly given various physical, social and mental health benefits.  



The Tsitsikamma Village Inn, South Africa

Written: May 14, 2019 UNPAID

The Tsitsikamma Village Inn

About

Strategically located in the villages of Storms River in Garden Route, Eastern Cape, South Africa, The Tsitsikamma Village is known for its unique, yet beautiful form of accommodations. “Tsitsikamma” comes from the Khoi word which means “a place of abundant or sparkling waters.”

Set on a 200-meter high plateau, the property gets a magnificent view of the Tsitsikamma River on its east, the imposing Tsitsikamma Mountains to the north and the sparkling waters of the Indian Ocean to the south.

Rooms and Accommodations

Guests at the Tsitsikamma are impressed by the typical Village greens where most of their room and accommodations are located. These rooms are representations of the styles of the different building that were built during the 1800s in the Cape Colony.  

Their unique buildings that house the room accommodations are named The Barn, iKaya, Cherry Cottage, Rose Cottage, Hanover, Arniston, Log Rooms, and the De Oude Pastorie. All of these are uniquely designed and reminiscent of the lifestyle and homes during the Colonial period.  

Diverse Dining Options

The village houses several restaurants to accommodate different tastes and palette of the guests. The Oude Martha Restaurant prepares delicious and hearty dishes for breakfast, lunch dinner. Guests will also enjoy the Hunter’s Pub with its unique character, while Cafe Bacchus has an al-fresco dining area set in a beautiful courtyard with a fountain and an impressive statue of Bacchus himself.

Right beside the hotel, Marilyn 60s Diner will take guests and diners on an enjoyable trip down the memory lane. This diner proudly takes on the All-American diner theme complete with vintage cars and motorcycles memorabilia. If guests want some comfort food, this diner serves juicy burgers and delicious milkshakes.

The latest addition to the Tsitsikamma is their Village Microbrewery. They brew unique local beers and ale on their tap which is located between the Hotel and Marilyn 60s Dinner. Beer crafters are constantly trying out new recipes and methods to craft beer flavours unique only to Tsitsikamma.

Hotel Amenities
In between excursions and exploration, hotel guests are warmly welcomed to try out Tsitsikamma’s sparkling and relaxing swimming pool. They also have a game room for rowdy boys needing to wind down after an exciting day out. Women would love the fact that the village has its own hair salon and spa. There’s nothing more frustrating than having a bad hair day during a vacation and the Tsitsikamma Hair Salon is the best place to visit to rectify the situation.

The Village also provides complimentary wi-fi access so that guests can have their time updating their Instagram accounts with beautiful and “Instagrammable” spots around the hotel.

In-room amenities include electrical blankets, air-conditioning, and heating as well as a coffee/tea station.

Activities 
The Tsitsikamma Village is a great launch pad for exploring surrounding natural attractions and taking on adventure activities in the region. Here are some of the activities that guests can take part in and make unforgettable memories with their families and friends.

Tsitsikamma Hiking Trail
Guest need not go far for exploring the lush beautiful forests of in Storms River. There are various safe and secure hiking trails in the area which extends from the Storms River Village to the Storms River Mount and further towards Sandy Bay and the famous Otter trail. The trail has different distances and terrain to welcome or challenge each kind of explorer.

Bungee Jumping and Big Tree Adventure
The legendary Bloukrans Bridge offers the world’s highest Bungee Jump and guests can take advantage of this feat while staying close by at the Tsitsikamma Village. The bridge is accessed via an engineered walkway and the experience is not recommended for the faint-hearted or people who have an extreme fear of heights.
Guest may also take their time exploring the indigenous bushes of Storms River to reach the yellow wood giant tree called the Tsitsikamma Big Tree. It is estimated to be around 1000 years old and stands really tall at 36 meters high.

Blackwater Tubing
This unique gorge adventure is made up of tubing, rock jumping, swimming and hiking through the Storms River Gorge. The activity takes place inside the Tsitsikamma National Park. It is also a great opportunity for guest to see the pristine beauty of the river banks, rare bird and wildlife viewing, and get some awesome sea views.

There are various other activities for Tsitsikamma Village guests who want to explore further. Nearby Jeffers Bay is a world-renowned surfing spot, while St Francis Bay and Oyster Bay also offer exciting marine activities.
   


How to Style Bold Patterns and Colours in the Home

Written on May 13, 2019 for an iWriter Scammer. UNPAID

How to style bold patterns/colours in the home

Category:
Home Improvement

Keyword:
Curtains, Interior Design,Patterns

Word count:
530
Special instructions:  IMPORTANT: This is NOT an SEO article. Please don't focus on keyword density - just write naturally. Use credible sources and just write naturally. Please list your sources at the bottom of the article.
The articles MUST be unique and original. It will be thoroughly checked for scraping and spinning. If you're found to be doing this, you will be reported to iWriter, who will then ban you from the platform.

Creative Brief
Company Info: Industry Leader.
this company is specialising in the supply of curtains and blinds for domestic and commercial environments. They offer a free home advice service which they will then use to support a full supply and install – each project is personally managed from start to finish so that you can rest assured that the right finish is achieved every time.

Objective: Inform and Educate.
how to place and use bold patterns in the home and mixing and matching with bold patterns/colours

How to Style Bold Patterns and Colours in the Home
Bold pattern and prints draw shoppers eyes whenever they visit home decor section of a shopping center. Many homeowners pick up objects, take a double look and try to visualize how such patterns can fit into their current home setting. Prints, patterns and some bold colours can be a little unsettling, but with the right mix and styling, one can easily achieve a brave and bold home interior decor.  Here are five ways to mix and style bold patterns and colours at home.
Show Off Patterns and Prints
While most people would cower and use striking bold monochrome patterns against light and neutral backdrops, there are also those who take advantage of its boldness. Instead of taking the edge out of a bold design, why not show it off by contrasting them against a bright color. Take it a little further by laying bold monochrome patterns against two bright colours such blue and yellow.  
Put Together Patterns in a Range of Sizes
When it comes to decorating with bold patterns and colours in the home, it pays to be daring and creative. The general rule in mixing different patterns and prints is to ensure that the background is smaller than the ones that you are trying to show off.
It is best to use the same colour palette in the patterns to avoid any visual confusion or have a competition for attention. This is particularly applicable for patterns that are placed next to each other.
Layer Patterns and Colour by Contrasting Them
When using similar patterns and putting them on top of one another, it might not be a good idea to have the same colour palette as mentioned earlier. This will dilute the layering effect of the pattern.
It is best to use contrasting colours such as dark blue against light patterns when layering prints together. One can still achieve a unified colour palette when layering patterns as long as they are done in small areas only.
Playing Up with Pattern Shapes
Another rule to keep in mind when using patterns and contrasting them for home decor is to ensure that they have different shapes and pattern directions. For instance, a Newport wall pattern will not go well with small horizontal lines from a wallpaper. Everything will be running a vertical direction and the impact of the contrasting pattern will be lost. Layering subtle prints that run in the opposite direction or angle from the main pattern is the best way to play up these pattern shapes.    
Breaking Up Patterns Using Colours and Objects
It is essential to add items and colours that would break up the monotony of patterns when using several of them for home decor. This is a way to let the eyes rest from the busy scene. 
Adding objects create zones and this where large furniture pieces come in really handy. Use these neutral pieces to zone off wall patterns and not compete with them. A bedroom wallpaper can be framed off using a white bed and prints on the wall is broken off by a side table.
Place something that sparkles in your cushions to break off patterns on your couch and bright colored throw for a pop of colour in the bed. These objects help tone down the patterned effect and draw the eyes more towards the main design of the room.
Decorating with bold patterns and colours is not everyone’s cup of tea. One has to be brave and experimental with prints, patterns and bold colours to achieve combinations and contracts that would appeal to the eye and provide aesthetic elegance into the home.






Robert Costa Weight Loss Secrets

Written: May 13, 2019 for iWriter Scammer. Unpaid

People struggling with excess weight will take on any challenge to lose weight and achieve their desired physique and appearance. For some, the difficulty in finding the best weight loss program can be depressing. Some have become gym slaves and others have tormented their bodies with hunger from extreme dieting. There had been hundreds of diet trends and weight loss programs but none had made the same impact as the weight loss journey of Robert Costa. The prominent journalist is the anchor of the PBS show Washington Week had his viewers  raving about his much-improved physique and apparent weight loss.

Who is Robert Costa?

Robert Costa is a fast-rising American journalist, impressive political commentator, reporter, and news anchor. He was born in Richmond, Virginia and grew up in Pennsylvania where he first exuded potential for journalism. He made a name for himself by practicing excellent skills and having a multi-talented personality. He is currently associated with PSB’s The Washington Post, and also works as political analyst for other networks such as MSNBC and NBC.

Robert Costa made a lasting impression with American audiences when he reported the United States FG Shutdown in 2013. His report focused on the Republican Congress and his performance in gained a lot of attention from fellow media networks and the US at large. Because of his efforts, he was highly commended and was considered as the most important reporter in the USA during that time.

The Robert Costa Weight Loss

Those who have been following his show closely have noticed his recent great shape and began asking questions about his weight loss secrets and motivation. According to his, family, friends and faith were his greatest motivation in life and career. These have helped him in his struggle with his excess weight. Although weight wasn’t an issue for him, Robert Costa took some effort in becoming healthier and leaner.

There were rumors about a special steroid that which might have helped him lose his extra pounds, but Costa shrugged them off. He claims that motivation and willpower are the most important thing in losing weight - not drugs, supplements and steroid. He visits the gym as much as he can for exercise and speeds up the effect of losing weight by having healthier food choices such as fruits, vegetables, and fish. Proper nutrition enhanced his workouts and made his weight loss even more effective.

Like other weight loss efforts, nothing would really guarantee fast and effective weight loss. A proper set of exercise will help target muscle groups and burn fat. But when the wrong foods and beverages are consumed, the calories and fat will only be replenished. He admits to having consulted a nutritionist to help him make better food choices for his workouts to get better results.

Robert Costa’s weight loss journey proves that everyone can succeed in their struggle with excess weight. The main factors here are staying motivated and being determined to become a better version of yourself. His weight loss journey did not demand his time or affected his work. Although he made sacrifices on his favorite foods, he was able to replace them with healthier and more nutritious choices. His weight loss secrets relied mainly on that driving force to become healthier and look better than ever.     



Monday, June 30, 2014

Whimsical Beach Bedrooms for Kids


Growing up with in a big family, I always wanted a room of my own. I would think of decors and designs that I would use or put up in it. And now that we have our own home (though rented) we want to make it as homey and personalized as far as our landlady will allow. 
And since we can’t redo everything at once, we decided to concentrate first on redecorating Teloyskie’s room. He loves the beach and if allowed, he will play in the surf and sand all day everyday. And because of this, all I can think of is to recreate a whimsical beach bedroom theme for kids that he too will surely love.  
photo not mine
Teloyskie’s room is bright with a wall of windows that lets natural light in. I have blue and green curtains hanged and I have blue and white stripped beddings on his bed. We wish we can repaint the ceiling with bright blue but that maybe done in another decorating project. My son also requested that we put luminous starts and heavenly bodies around his room and in the ceiling but we still haven’t bought it yet. 
Decorative wall stickers are also great additions when it comes to easy and affordable room renovation or redecoration. Good thing there are adhesive wall papers with beach themed prints like dolphins, turtles or sea shells. Teloyskie’s bedroom walls are painted cream and since we are hesitant about putting wall papers we are simply putting on stickers on certain areas. I’m also putting framed sea scapes of beaches we’ve been to some nautical wall decors like anchors and boats. 

etsy.com
For the floor, we are still on the lookout for some cream and blue carpet. A blue sofa bed and a wooden shelve will probably complete the major items we need to create a whimsical beach bedroom theme for our little tot. If we get to travel again soon, I promise him we can take home some shells and rocks he can display in his room. 
photo not mine
And maybe soon, if the budget allows, we can also get an aquarium and some fishes he can care for! 

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Simple Tips on Buying Antiques

After moving into our new home, we can't stop thinking of potential decorating and organizing projects that we can do with our space. One of our consideration is to add a bit of vintage feel and seek antiques that will suit our personal space.

Why go for antiques? These decorative pieces are more than just eye-candies. They hold interesting relics of history and story of their manufacture. You can easily see the beauty and supreme craftsmanship of antiques so you can never truly discount it's quality. Antique are very popular so you have to watch out for sellers that can take advantage of you. There are fakes and rip-off prices that you have to be really cautious about buying antique. When I tried searching online for furniture and decorative pieces, I was met with tips and advise on how you can find authentic antiques at the right prices.

antique cabinet

Ask - asking about a product basically gives you a chance to challenge an antique's authenticity. Avoid rushing through the purchase and ask about the product until your curiosity is satisfied. You may also ask around to verify the credibility of the seller, his store and his products.

Assess - when looking at products on the internet, you have to pour over every detail of it. Look for something out of the way and see how it has held up over time. Notice the small details and never settle for anything that looks worn out or battered. There are hundreds of antique furniture and decors in prime conditions that you can find online so you don't have to settle for something that looks crooked worn out.


Trust your instincts - while examining a prime piece of antique, never feel pressured to buy it especially if you are not sure about it. Request for more photos especially detailed ones. Honest sellers will not hesitate to provide you more photos and information about the item. 

When you do all these, you will know the price range for items that catches your fancy. You'd be able to compare prices of similar items and you can haggle for the right price if you think the seller is asking too much for it. And lastly, ensure that you know of any return policy when ordering your antiques!

Monday, May 5, 2014

Home Sweet Home: Adventure is Right Here!

After months of searching and looking for a place we can settle in, we finally found a simple abode which we now call home. Its a two-bedroom apartment with ample ground space for a small living area, dining, kitchen and laundry area. Our two rooms upstairs are just perfect for us three. It took almost two weeks before we let Teloyskie sleep in his own room and Baba feels a bit regretful because the tot no longer wants to sleep with us because he truly loved having his own space. 

There are still lots of items we need. But we are trying to complete things out piece by piece. Baba and I also bonds over Pinterest pins on home decor and interior design. Will try to update you on our efforts decorating and beautifying our home but for now, here's a peek at how it looks.