7 Misconceptions About Compression Socks (and Why They’re Wrong)

Carol Highland
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Reading Time: 5 minutes

Everybody can benefit from having a good pair of compression socks in their drawers. However, not everybody knows this yet. While compression socks have consistently proven to be useful, outdated ideas and several misbeliefs have held people back from wearing them, especially younger people.

If you’re interested in getting your own pair of men’s compression socks, doing away with the following myths can ease any worries you may have about them. Moreover, you’ll gain a better idea of what compression socks can and can’t do. Without further ado, here are some common misconceptions about using compression socks:

Myth #1: Compression Socks Are Only for the Sick and Elderly

When people talk about compression socks, the first thing that comes to mind is a kindly-looking grandmother with a pair of thick socks around her calves. To this day, the use of compression socks is associated with the elderly because they’re the ones who are usually at the highest risk of experiencing blood circulation problems. Examples of these issues include varicose veins, diabetes, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

However, the primary goal of compression socks is to improve circulation by preventing blood from pooling around the legs. By gently squeezing select areas of the lower extremities, these kinds of socks can provide ample support for the leg veins. And this benefit applies to everybody, not just to the sick or elderly.

Some examples of individuals who can significantly benefit from wearing compression socks include:

  • people who travel a lot via planes, cars, trains, and other modes of transportation;
  • employees who stand or sit for long periods; and
  • athletes or sporty individuals who regularly engage in intense physical activities.
compression-socks

Myth #2: Compression Socks Can Heal Leg Injuries

Some individuals mistakenly believe that wearing compression socks can heal leg injuries. Remember: compression socks are supportive gear. They can help you prevent or slow down venous disorders and improve blood circulation. However, they’re not a magic solution for healing a leg injury such as a sprain or a fracture. In such cases, a doctor or physical therapist may prescribe compression socks as complementary support, but it won’t necessarily fix your leg in an instant.

Myth #3: Buying Compression Socks Requires a Doctor’s Prescription

It’s important to note that compression socks are categorized based on the level of compression that they can provide. Those with lower compression levels, usually ranging from 8 to 20 mmHg, are considered mild compression options and can be used by anyone for extra leg support. They also don’t require a prescription and are easily purchasable online or at any department store.

On the other hand, socks that feature higher compression levels are usually designed to address specific health issues like DVT or lymphedema. Hence, pharmacies usually won’t allow you to purchase these types of compression socks without a prescription. While they’re generally safe to wear, they’re not recommended for use by the general public to avoid any possible contraindications.

Myth #4: Compression Socks Are Difficult to Put On

The common assumption that compression socks are hard to put on stems from the inefficiencies of how they used to be designed. When they were introduced in the 1950s, compression socks were notoriously thick and required a lot of effort to put on one’s legs.

However, modern technology has come a long way, and the materials that make up compression socks have evolved. Today, these socks are commonly made from more flexible materials like natural rubber, spandex, cotton, and nylon for increased functionality and ease of use. 

Myth #5: Compression Socks Are Too Hot to Wear

When summer comes, people opt for clothes that are lighter and more breathable—two characteristics that people don’t commonly associate with compression socks. But as mentioned earlier, the designs and materials used for these kinds of socks have changed over the years. Today, there are compression socks that are made of sheer yet equally effective moisture-wicking materials, so they can be worn even during warmer months.

Myth #6: Compression Socks Aren’t Stylish

Nobody wants to wear thick and frumpy compression socks. Fortunately, modern compression socks now come in a wide array of fashionable colors, styles, and designs. You can choose from various kinds of prints, patterns, and lengths to find the best fit for your daily needs. Indeed, the compression socks of today look more like your average pair of stylish everyday casual socks. So not only can you look good, but you can also enjoy all the health benefits that compression socks have to offer.

Myth #7: Compression Socks Can Help You Lose Weight

While several studies have found that wearing compression socks can offer several different health benefits, losing weight is not one of them.

The idea that these types of socks can help you shed a few pounds stems from the misbelief that improving blood circulation in the lower legs can lead to weight loss. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. No single product can replicate the effects of eating a healthy diet and getting sufficient exercise. What compression socks can do is assist you in your weight-loss journey by providing extra support for your legs as you pursue a more active lifestyle.

Truly, compression socks can offer a bevy of benefits for any individual willing to give them a try. Hopefully, this article has helped clear up some outdated myths and misconceptions about compression socks that have endured over the years. Now, with a clearer understanding of what compression socks can and can’t do for you, you’ll be able to make a more informed decision when shopping for them. Just do your research and keep an open mind, and you’ll eventually find a pair or two that suits your needs best.

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

10+ Positive Affirmations Against an Evil Eye

Carol Highland
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0
Reading Time: 5 minutes

What is an evil eye?

There are two different references to the words ‘evil eye’. 

First off we have the noun, evil eye, referring to a protection amulet that is meant to ward off bad energy. The origins of the amulet are unclear however, suspected to be from Turkey or Greece. This symbol has many different names: the evil eye, The Eye of Allah, Eye of Mashallah, or nazar bonjuk. 

The verb ‘evil eye’ refers to “bad luck through gaze”; when someone gives you a look of envy bringing on an evil spirit, causing bad luck. According to the Judaic belief, when someone believes that you don’t deserve what you have, be it your wealth or certain goods, this envy is transferred into evil. 

The evil eye amulet is considered a talisman that effectively wards off evil, keeping your family safe from any harm or disturbance. The eye is also the starting point of both positive and negative emotions and thoughts. Thus, it has become known as the window between worlds. The evil eye amulet is seen widespread in Greece and Turkey but also all over the world. The evil eye in different cultures may have slightly varying characteristics in form and color but a common characteristic is its use in protecting against bad luck and adversity. 

Wearing the evil eye

Nowadays the evil eye amulet is a popular souvenir or token that tourists purchase when in Greece or Turkey. It is believed to be of good omen if you receive an evil eye talisman as a gift. Many who believe in the properties of the evil eye will carry one with them, wearing it as a bracelet or necklace. If you have one already you may be interested in what it means if an evil eye bracelet breaks.

Positive affirmations against an evil eye 

If you don’t have a protective talisman or want to increase your own protection, using affirmations is a great way to ward off an evil eye. Affirmations can be very helpful if you want to seek a positive change in your life. Whether it be increasing your confidence, taking care of your mental health, or attracting abundance. 

Affirmations to release negativity

  1. I release anything that does not contribute to my growth
  2. I can trust my inner tuition. My inner tuition only has the best interests at heart. 
  3. I am worthy of love and appreciation
  4. My intelligence inspires others 
  5. I let go of fear, doubt, and guilt
  6. I release destructive patterns 

Affirmations to attract abundance 

  1. I am grateful for the abundance I have with my work and within my family.
  2. I am deserving of my success
  3. I choose to see the good in people
  4. I surrender to the wisdom and path of the universe 
  5. I am aligned with my purpose 
  6. I am grateful for the abundance I have and the abundance that is on its way 

Affirmations to attract good luck 

  1. I deserve the best and it always comes to me at the right time 
  2. I strengthen my good luck with positive actions 
  3. I attract all manner of good things to me 
  4. I feel the powerful presence of good luck every day 
  5. I attract good fortune and good people into my life 

If you aren’t familiar with saying affirmations it is best to find a method of saying affirmations that will work for you every day. To make affirmations work well you need to keep constantly saying them out loud to yourself. After repeating certain affirmations you will be rewiring your brain to believe them and therefore your vibrational frequency will be at the same level as what you want to attract. It is best to pick about 5 affirmations to say over a period of time, a month, or two weeks. 

You can say your affirmations throughout the day but the best times are when you first wake up in the morning and right before you sleep. Saying them in the morning will create a positive mindset for the rest of the day. Saying them before you sleep allows your subconscious mind to sit with the affirmations, therefore, raising your vibrational frequency. When saying your affirmations you want to make sure to connect positive emotions with the words. You must put yourself in the mindset as if you already have all of these things you want to attract. A great tool is listening to uplifting music or vibrational frequencies before or while you are repeating your affirmations. This will aid in rewiring your brain to be positive thus, increasing your vibrational frequency over time. 

Summary

Whichever method you choose to experiment with, make sure that you are staying consistent with the affirmations that you use. Repeating these affirmations over a long period of time is the key to success if you want to protect yourself against an evil eye. 

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Bucket list ideas

Jennifer Hard
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Reading Time: 9 minutes

The bucket list (derived from the saying ‘to kick the bucket’) refers to the idea of a list of things to do before you die. The term was first coined by screenwriter Jack Zackham for his film of the same name back in 2007. 

Somewhat ironically, top of Zackham’s bucket list was to write a screenplay that would be produced by a Hollywood studio – rather perfectly demonstrating the idea in action.

Why write a bucket list?

Life passes us by quickly but having a list of ideas you want to do before you pass on will give you the motivation to get out there and try new things. It can also help focus the mind and remind you what’s important to you and what you hope to achieve while you’re alive.

Like most aspects of life, planning is the best way to make things happen, so start writing your list today – after all, there’s nothing final in this, and you can always add to it as you go forward. Having a clear set of goals will help you deal better with the day-to-day humdrum while also giving you something to work towards. 

Bucket-list-tips
Photo by freestocks.org on Pexels.com

Bucket list inspirational ideas

Most of us have ambitions to complete certain one-off trips or experiences before we’re too old but if you’re struggling to come up with ideas, below are some of the most common bucket list activities dreamed up by others to inspire you.

Travel by luxury yacht

Hiring a private yacht should be top of the list if you want to experience the lifestyle of the rich and famous. Yachts come in all shapes and sizes, so a trip needn’t particularly break the bank, so long as you keep your ideas within realistic expectations. There are hundreds of different options for traveling by yacht, ranging from full holidays to just short pleasure cruises. 

Alternatively, if you run a business, you could justify the costs of the trip by organizing a yacht party for your clients – or asking your boss if the firm would be interested in doing so. Not only will you tick off another bucket list idea, but you’ll also charm and engage your customers like never before and let them experience a taste of the high life. Corporate yacht parties can be as big or small as you want, featuring everything from live bands to private food and drinks services.

Yacht-travel-guide
Photo by mali maeder on Pexels.com

Catch your first wave surfing

Bucket list ideas don’t just need to be limited to more expensive activities – rather, you should also think about one-off experiences. For example, if you’ve never tried surfing before, get out there and try catching your first wave. Warning – surfing is known to be a highly addictive sport, and most people who ride a wave for the first time go on to develop a lifetime compulsion.

Travel the world

Travel is one of the best ways to expose the mind to new cultures, people, and traditions while also experiencing the wonders of the world firsthand. Nations vary greatly from continent to continent, so why not make a list of the places you want to visit (cities, monuments, famous scenic viewpoints, etc.) then devise a route between them. 

If you find that idea a little daunting, look online for resources that can help you plan better for routes between where you want to go. For example, the website Rome2Rio is an excellent travel resource produced by two ex-Microsoft developers (Bernhard Tschirren and Dr. Michael Cameron) that allow users to plan and plot multiple destinations then provides recommended routes (i.e., bus, plane, boat, etc.).

Rome2Rio isn’t the only site you could use. In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s now easier than ever to plan and book multiple-stop journeys, so get online and start planning your ultimate trip around the world. 

Work on your language skills

On the subject of travel, why not take the time to learn a new language? Sure, learning a language is perhaps a little more sedate than other items on this list, but it could help hugely if you try the traveling the world idea – particularly if you learn a widely-spoken language like Spanish. 

There are few things more satisfying than conversing with another person in a language foreign to your own – plus the vast majority of nationals around the world greatly appreciate when they see visitors attempting to speak in their local tongue. 

Spanish can be a great help with travel, but don’t forget the other widely-spoken languages like Hindi, Mandarin, or French. 

In terms of resources, there is now a huge range of free and paid online services you could use to learn a language. In particular, the Duolingo app can teach you the basics of a language quickly with its free interactive lesson style (there are also many other apps and websites available). In no time at all, you could be speaking fluently in a foreign tongue. 

Get to your ideal weight

Obesity is one of the biggest health problems around the world today, and, in the US alone, it’s estimated one in three adults is overweight. Problems with weight don’t just pose a significant danger to your health; they can also present psychological and mobility issues – plus, they can ruin your personal body image. 

Taking regular exercise and regulating your diet will give you greater energy levels and improve your overall general outlook on life – plus, it will make you more attractive to your significant other. 

Check online for your suggested ideal body weight and start working towards it with a daily exercise routine. Again, you’ll find a huge raft of resources online these days in the form of websites and apps that can help provide motivation – or even plan your ideal workout routine and give dietary advice. 

Perfect a new sport 

OK – maybe perfection would be stretching it a little, but you’re never too old to take up a new activity, and learning a new sport is a great way to give both your body and mind a workout. Getting good at a new sport will also increase your confidence levels as your technique improves and can take you places you might otherwise not even dream of visiting (for example, skiing in high mountain landscapes). 

Sport can also have a knock-on effect of increasing your circle of friends, plus it will also help you achieve your ideal body weight (as noted above). 

No matter what age you are, there’s a sport out there for you – anything from relatively sedate sports like swimming or bowling right up to high-octane activities like wakeboarding, paragliding, snowboarding, or mountain biking. 

Experience wildlife firsthand by trying scuba diving

We humans may spend the majority of our time on land, but the earth is actually around 71% water. So rather than just limiting yourself to on-land activities, why not try exploring the vast watery resources around us by trying scuba diving?

Most beach resorts have short ‘try dive’ sessions conducted in a safe and monitored group that will give you a taste for diving with relatively little training involved. If you get hooked, you could then improve your skills by taking an accredited course that will allow you to dive deeper and start exploring the deeper, more exotic seas around us. 

No matter where you choose to learn, you’ll be exposed to the hidden wonders of the ocean and get up close and personal with a huge variety of wildlife and animals that we simply don’t see from the surface or on land.

Train to run a marathon 

Public marathons are run in most larger cities around the world, so why not start training to take part? During your training, you’ll improve your fitness and stamina levels – plus, you will have the added advantage of being one of the very few that can say they’ve completed the full 42.2km (or 26.2 miles) challenge. You could even look to getting yourself sponsored for the event, thereby raising valuable money for your preferred charity. 

Training for – and completing – a marathon will work wonders for your confidence levels and also improve your overall endurance and physical fitness levels. 

Go tandem paragliding 

Most extreme sports take years to become skilled at; however, with a tandem paraglider, you can rely on the knowledge and experience of a professional pilot to fly like a bird high above the earth. Paragliding is the ultimate rush (particularly if you suffer from vertigo) and can help you overcome many other fears or trepidations.

Nothing quite compares to the feeling of running down the side of a mountain, only for the earth to drift away between your feet as the canopy above inflates and sends you flying into the air. Your pilot looks after all the flying duties allowing you to take in the views in a very safe and controlled activity. When coming to land, the pilot will also advise you on the best practices for landing as you glide slowly back down to earth. 

For an added adrenaline boost, you could consider asking your pilot to perform a spiral landing where they’ll corkscrew you back to the ground. Again, the sense of speed and G forces are unlike anything else you’ll have ever experienced. 

Walk the Inca trail

The Inca trail is the most famous walk in South America and is generally regarded as one of the top five trail treks in the world. Starting in Chillca, the most popular walk is just 26 miles long, eventually culminating in a visit to Machu Pichu – the Lost City of the Incas. Along the way, you’ll take in breathtaking scenery ranging from subtropical jungle to lush forests – and, of course, the world-famous Inca ruins, tunnels, and monuments.

There are numerous dedicated resources online to find out more information or book a trip with a specialist trail guide company that will keep you on the right path while also explaining the significance of the sights and sounds around you. 

Perform a selfless, kind deed with no reward in return

Most people would agree that it’s better to give than to receive, and performing a selfless, kind deed for another person can be one of life’s most rewarding experiences. Try thinking of someone you know (or even that you don’t know) who needs help, then devise a way to assist them. Yes, money will often help but also try thinking of more out-of-the-box ideas that could give them a helpful push in the right direction. Not only will you end up helping the individual, but you’ll also derive a sense of pride in doing the right thing. 

Jennifer
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

Why Should We Stop Using Shower Gels And Replace Them With Natural Soap Bars?

José Amorim
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0
Reading Time: 6 minutes

In 2021, there is no room for doubts about the fact that human activity is the biggest responsible for every change happening in the world: climate change, environmental changes, air or water pollution. Every decision a consumer makes contributes to evolving our planet in one direction or another. Last year, the total oil production reached more than 4 million tons, +7.4% compared to 2010. In 10 years, the usage of oil for plastics and different derivatives has never been so strong. Therefore there are simple things you can do to try to help to change it. And one of these things is to stop using Shower Gel daily. The usage of natural soaps is a much better alternative, and here are xx reasons why.

Reason number one: Stop using plastic bottles

Probably the number one reason people should stop using shower gel is the plastic bottle surrounding it. Every shower gel (and shampoo, by the way) use plastic bottles, and those plastic bottles have a single unique usage; and once the shower gel is over, the only thing you can do is throw it into the garbage.

Shower-gel-bad-for-environment
Photo by Sarah Chai on Pexels.com

According to the US governmental organization for climate, only 32% of the total world population regularly recycle their wastage. This means that millions of tons of garbage are buried, burned or ends up in the sea.

A study done by the Daily Mirror in the UK shows that each British household use around 24 bottles of shower gel per year on average. With 27.8 million households in the country, more than 600 million shower gel bottles go to the garbage in the UK.

People could argue that plastic bottles can easily be recycled. Well, as mentioned previously, only one-third of people on average do recycle their waste. Not 100% of all the plastic materials are recyclable, injecting new plastic material each cycle. Last but not least, even though recycled plastic uses 50% less energy, it is still a lot of energy.

Reason number two: Shower Gel formula is generally dependent of the Oil-Economy

Now that we have talked about the packaging, let’s look at the shower gel formula. The shower gel is a derivative invention of liquid soap, which first appeared in the 1800s. In 1865, William Shepphard patented the formula behind the liquid soap, but the product gained eventual popularity with the rise of Palmolive soap in 1898 by B.J. Johnson.

The functional ingredients in a body wash are detergents (surfactants), and generally, anionic surfactants are used. These ingredients are composed of molecules that have portions that are compatible with both oil and water. The oil-loving (lipophilic) ends orient themselves with the oil particles, while the water-loving (hydrophilic) ends orient towards the water. Oil particles are then surrounded by surfactant molecules and lifted off the surface to be rinsed away.

shower-gel-plastic-bottles
Photo by Castorly Stock on Pexels.com

Secondary surfactants are also used to impact the foam characteristics along with the viscosity of the formula, and they can also make the formula less irritating.

Examples of ingredients that make body washes work include Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine and Cocamide MEA.

While most of the formula is water, at least 5% of the formula are surfactants, all derivative from the oil industry. Recently formulations have explored the usage of surfactants

Natural surfactants or biosurfactants are amphiphilic biological compounds, usually extracellular, produced by various microorganisms from various substances, including waste materials. There is increasing interest in this topic because of their unique properties such as low toxicity, functionality under extreme conditions, based on renewable substances and biologically degradable nature.

The diversity of these molecules supports their potential application in petroleum, medicine, agriculture, food, cosmetics etc. They are also effective in curtailing the greenhouse effect by reducing the emission of CO2. They can be termed ‘green’ because of their low toxicity, biodegradability and relative stability under a wide range of physicochemical environments. 

The commercial realisation of these eco-friendly biomolecules is restricted by low productivity, expensive downstream processing and lack of proper understanding of the bioreactor systems. But we expect that ure better reactor design and product recovery technology would be developed, and overproducer microbial strain would be sure in the future need. 

Reason number three: Soaps can be naturally made, but choose well.

People often ask if bar soap is natural. The answer is it depends what kind of soap you are using. 

Some of the solid “soap” bars you can purchase from your local supermarket or pharmacy contain surfactants and chemical agents to give you the impression that they can clean you as well as natural ingredients. One of the main additives is sodium lauryl sulphate or derivatives of it. I will not develop all the challenges that these additives procure, but there is one important thing you need to know: It is not because a soap bar looks natural that it is really the case.

soap-bar-guide
Photo by Meruyert Gonullu on Pexels.com

Real soap is somehow a surfactant, and it always results from a chemical reaction between a fat element and an alkaline substance (saponification). The finest grade soaps originate from cold saponification. The advantages of the oils and vegetable kinds of butter that will make up the soap are preserved by not boiling them: vitamins, fatty acids, and other antioxidants. Surgras soaps are also available, which include 100% of the glycerin obtained naturally during manufacturing. Oils can be added to soap to make it more luxurious.

Glycerin and oils help restore the skin’s natural protective layer that soaps can alter. They deposit a film on the skin that prevents water from evaporating, and the skin then stays hydrated longer. The active components in each vegetable oil are as follows:

  • Sensitive skin benefits from shea butter since it softens, moisturizes, and nourishes it.
  • Rapeseed oil has emollient, rejuvenating, and nourishing qualities.
  • Sweet almond oil hydrates and calms the skin.

As a result, you may select a soap appropriate for your skin type (oily, dry, etc.).When it comes to environmental protection, hard soaps that have been cold saponified are superior:

  • The artisanal method of cold saponification consumes little energy and discharges little wastewater into nature.
  • Solid soaps have a minimal environmental effect, emitting 25% less CO2 than liquid soaps from manufacturing to the point of disposal.
  • They wash longer: only 0.35 grams of solid soap are needed to wash your hands compared to 2.3 grams of liquid soap. Also, in the shower, we use a smaller amount of solid soap than shower gel, representing 45 € per year and person.
  • They require little packaging: they are usually packaged in a cardboard box or bulk. Exit the plastic bottle which, at best, will be recycled or, at worst, will be dumped in the sea.

When we wonder about the small things every person can do in one’s day-to-day life, using natural bar soaps is one of them. Rethinking what you buy and what you use is a great way to help to protect the planet, especially if the result of your action goes directly into the siphon of the bathtub.

José Amorim
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

6 Benefits Of Choosing Cremation Over Burial That You Didn’t Know About

Carol Highland
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0
Reading Time: 5 minutes

The feeling of losing a loved one is unexplainable and it brings a large wave of sorrow. This wave of emptiness overshadows the routine of the deceased’s family and pushes them into the abyss of sadness.

However, the family needs to hold themselves together and prepare for the rituals that follow the demise of their loved one. For this reason, we have developed this informative guide to explain why most families are now preferring to choose cremation over the different types of burial methods.

Cremation Process

Funerals are expensive across the world. The Cremation service alone can cost over $7,000 – $10,000 around the world. Although the situation of a loved one’s passing can be taxing for the family, certain protocols need to be followed to ensure the successful commencement of the cremation process. Let’s go through some of the most important steps.

  • Authorize the Procedure

The crematory is supposed to have written permission from the family before the initiation of the procedure. You will also have to authorize the type of container the crematory will use for the procedure and who will receive the remains.

  • Preparation of the Body and Moving into the Chamber

The preparation of the body is an important step in the cremation process. The cleaning of the deceased demands expertise from the caretakers as mechanical or battery-operated prosthetics are required to be removed to avoid any kind of reaction. After ensuring that the body is stripped off of every potentially harmful thing, it is moved inside the chamber that is heated up to 1800 degrees Fahrenheit to perform the final step.

Benefits of Choosing Cremation Over Burial Techniques

Different religions have different burial techniques based on their traditional practices. However, many families are beginning to prefer a cremation service over their traditional burial techniques.

  1. Affordability

Funeral services cost an approximate amount of $10,000 for a single service in the United States. Despite the love for their loved ones, it is preferred to choose an affordable choice of funeral service to ensure that there are no excessive financial burdens on the family.

  1. Customization

The standard ritual services are often dull and lack any kind of customization in the final presentation of the dead bodies. However, when families choose a cremation service, they can fulfill their wishes of saying goodbye to their loved ones in a customized urn or even send their ashes into space.

  1. Environment Friendly

Most people believe in a sustainable lifestyle by maintaining their surrounding environment. To ensure environmental sustainability, they take necessary measures that elongate the life of the environment. Similarly, to increase the probability of dying with equal sustainability, the professionals at greenmeadowmemorials.com suggest that people should opt for burial service alternatives, such as cremation. This is especially good if it is the wish of the deceased person, to increase environmental sustainability and avoid hurting mother nature. 

  1. Issues of Reachability

These days, people have to switch their geographical locations to find work and explore different opportunities. For this reason, it becomes practically impossible for many people to attend a traditional burial service. This is why the prevalence of practicality has influenced the use of cremation over other burial methods.

  1. Time Efficient

In today’s world, everybody’s on a deadline. Although the maintenance of their routine is the last thing the grieving deceased’s family would worry about, they have to keep in mind the attendants’ schedules too. This is why people are choosing this time-efficient technique to minimize the procession times.

  1. Portability

When dealing with ashes as opposed to other burial rituals, carrying an urn is a lot more portable than the management of a casket. This is why families are preferring to use this portable alternative.

Types of Burial Services

Despite the rising resistance against burials, there are specific types of burials that are still popular around the world. Deciding on the type of service that is to be performed on your body after your demise is an individual’s right. However, here’s a list of the most common types of burials to give you an idea of the burial’s side too.

  • In-Ground Burial: A marker or monument can be used to signal your grave.
  • Natural Burials: If you’re a nature lover, you can be buried in a forest and you can wish to grow flowers directly on your gravesite.
Funeral-guide

Different religions have different rituals that are performed after the passing of their loved ones. From in-ground and mausoleum-based rituals to the intricate process of cremation, there are a variety of ways to pay your respect to the dead. However, many families are now opting for cremation services as opposed to other types of burial services because of many reasons, some of which are stated above. Hope this guide helps you in deciding if you should opt for a cremation service or your regular traditional burial service.

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

“The Local Corner” Arrives In Lausanne!

José Amorim
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0
Reading Time: 3 minutes

There is a new great initiative in Lausanne called “The Local Corner“. From October 4 to December 31, 2021, visitors may visit the 130-square-meter store on rue de Genève 6, in the centre of Lausanne, to make everyday purchases and presents for end-of-year celebrations supporting local companies.

The Local Corner (Instagram @thelocalcorner.ch) was founded by two young entrepreneurs who, believing in the potential of small and medium-sized Swiss businesses, chose to bring together over 40 local enterprises to provide a diverse range of sustainable and participative products.

the-Local-Corner-Lausanne-Flon
the-local-corner-in-lausanne-2021

The Pop-Up Store That Brings Small Local Brands To The City Center

Covid19 was a tough strike into retailers and small businesses. Today’s world requires more local thinking, and supporting local businesses (vs buying from multinationals far away from your home) is one of the keys to a successful future. Unfortunately, it is not always easy to connect end-consumers and local small companies because:

  • Advertising budgets are not big enough
  • Best store locations in city-centres are far way too expensive
  • There are not many events to make this encounter

The Local Corner arose from a joint concept to allow even tiny businesses to be present in one of the city’s busiest areas during the busiest season of the year while also valuing their work with fair and sustainable pricing. “The Local Corner,” a project promoting small Swiss companies through temporary initiatives, has attracted more than 40 local firms. The first hurdle will be to create an “ephemeral” shop in the interesting Flon area, which will be made feasible with the help of several partners, including Vaud Promotion.

“The pandemic has taught us that it is important to combine skills and values to achieve sometimes insurmountable goals”

Paola Bellia and Alessio Rosato – Founders of The Local Corner

With this great initiative, The Local Corner aims to demonstrate that it can showcase the know-how of artisans and young entrepreneurs. It is important to value their labour without cannibalizing their price, which is important to fair compensation for the whole value chain.

The-Local-Corner-Lausanne-in-Flon

What Will You find at The Local Corner in Lausanne?

The store was launched on October 4th and will be open from Tuesday to Saturday until December 31, 2021, in the heart of the Flon area, which is central and vibrant. Three beautiful store windows on rue de Genève 6 and a range of over 600 goods from over 40 Swiss businesses will be present. What will you be able to find in the store?

  • Local cheeses
  • Cold meats
  • Appetizers
  • Beverages
  • Christmas sweets
  • Wines
  • Cosmetics and accessories

Everything will be displayed in contemporary and sustainable furniture developed with the Amazing Lab team (www.amazinglab.ch). In addition, a service dedicated to companies wishing to support the initiative will be available, offering personalized boxes with the products offered in the Pop-Up store for Christmas gifts.

I invite all people in Lausanne or just visiting the city for the day to discover this project created to promote small Swiss companies through temporary initiatives.

José Amorim
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. images are for illustration purposes only.

Financial Advice: How To Properly Plan Your Budget

Carol Highland
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0
Reading Time: 5 minutes

Ever since the pandemic and ever since people started losing their jobs and it became more challenging to find new work, people have realized the importance of having a monthly budget and staying within predefined limits. With the fast-paced life that we used to have just before the pandemic, we needed convenience more than anything else. Whether that was with food or entertainment we often paid the price for getting things delivered to our doorstep or having things custom made for our liking. This is great and people are still choosing to live a more expensive albeit convenient life over a less expensive and more objective-oriented one.

It can’t be denied that if you consider the advice of any successful person in the modern world, nearly all advocate living below your means and putting your money in more meaningful things. In fact, some of the richest people on the planet don’t splurge on expensive houses, cars, or vacations. They live a very ‘regular’ life and use their money to do more meaningful things in life.

Budgeting is a tool that everyone can use and if you want to achieve the goals you set for yourself, whether they are financial or otherwise, being able to manage money efficiently is definitely going to help. Here is what you should do.

1.  Organize The Income

This has become more relevant today as people are working jobs, or they have a few ‘side hustles’ together with their main job or they are doing different things at different times to keep the ball rolling. Moreover, with the increase in the number of people freelancing, if you are a digital nomad there is a high chance that you also have to deal with foreign exchange rates, many different kinds of fees, and various other intermediaries. So even though you know how much you should be earning, the amount of money you actually receive can be quite different. Ironing out all these variables and really understanding exactly how much disposable income you have at the end of the month is a big first step.

2.  Track Expenses

A few years ago when things were mostly cash it was relatively straightforward, you just check your wallet and you know what you have left. Today, you most likely have multiple accounts and different cards for different things. The main advantage to this is that you get better prices with things like loyalty cards. While your favorite stores might be good in both price and quality, the money managers at PriceListo are of the opinion that you should always stay updated with the latest business prices to make sure you are getting the best deal. Services that help you find the best price often also give you the option to purchase through that platform and in this way you have one place where all your expenses are being made from. When it comes to compiling your expenses or working out what you are spending the most money on you can easily find out through your statement. The other solution is to manually record everything which can be a bit more cumbersome.

3.  Set Targets

We all have things that we want to do, whether that is by the end of the month, year, or even in ten years’ time. One of the biggest concerns for most people is a retirement fund and investing in something that is going to give them the highest return over time. An important idea in this regard is the snowball effect, something that Warren Buffet also talks about extensively. Essentially you are making small gains over a long period of time and through the compounding effect, you eventually make a lot of money. The key here is to have a fixed amount of money that you can put aside for investment purposes on a regular basis. Over time you will have built a very healthy portfolio that can fuel its own growth through the returns that it is earning you.

financial-advice

Things are going to happen out of the blue. Sometimes you will need to spend more than you need to and other times you are going to be able to save more than you usually do. Ideally, you should have a quarterly plan, this will help reduce the per-month burden and also give you a bit more room to think long term. This way you can evaluate your financial position every three months and figure out what you need to do to improve this. You also need to audit yourself and analyze whether or not you are making the best decisions with your current resources. In this way, you can start developing a strategy that will yield the maximum growth and help you get the most out of your available resources. 

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only and sourced at unsplash.com.

The Top Luxurious Vape Kits That Money Can Buy

Carol Highland
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1
Reading Time: 4 minutes

What’s the use of having money if you can’t spend it on some lavish vape kits? Welcome to the wonderful world of luxury vaping! If you’re looking for a vape kit that makes heads turn and shows off your status, then you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive into the world of the most expensive and luxurious vape kits on the market and learn the reasons behind their exorbitant price tag. 

Remember that these are not your average e-cigarette setups — they’re straight out of a James Bond movie. From the high-tech gadgets to the beautiful designs, these vaping devices will make any smoker’s mouth water with envy!

5 of the Most Luxurious Vape Kits on the Market

Here’s a list of 5 luxurious vape kits that have ever been made. Some are custom-made devices for personal use, while others are available for grab if you are willing to spend that kind of money. 

1) Sofia by Shisha Sticks (Price: $887,000)

What happens when a Russian billionaire decides to give his girlfriend a birthday gift? He sets out to buy her the most expensive vape mod ever created! With a price tag just shy of a million dollars, the Sofia vape dazzles everyone with its beauty. 

The mod looks more like a fancy piece of art than a vaping device. Why? Because its exterior is lined up with gold, diamonds, and crystals. That’s not all! It proudly displays a 6-carat oval diamond on top and over 200 pieces of 2-carat diamonds across the body. 

2) SX350J Dual 18650 Mod by Magical Valley Vapors (Price: $109,000)

The vape mod is a 3D printed device that is made for users who appreciate quality and luxury. Don’t let the word “3D printed” deceive you because the mod oozes class and luxury with a smooth finish and various color options. 

The second most expensive vape mod in existence, this kit features a sleek framework, making it easy to slip into your pocket without any hassle. The dual batteries get their charge via micro USB.

3) TI 26650 by Top Hat (Price: $10,000)

The first thing you’re likely to notice about this bad boy is the stunning titanium shell with a wood inlay. It’s a beautiful, handcrafted masterpiece that will make your mouth water and your friends jealous. But don’t take my word for it, check out these features:

The titanium shell ensures high durability, and the wood inlay creates an eye-catching style on the surface of the device. The mod’s design aims to maximize function while making it look beautiful at the same time.

4) Otto Carter (Price: $1,000 to $3,000)

A vape mod made from a Texan firearms engraver? Who wouldn’t want that! Showcasing the precision and expertise of a craftsman, this vape mod is one of a kind that only a true artist can offer. 

The mod features intricate patterns on its exterior that are truly wonderful to behold. It’s also highly functional and heavy-duty with its stainless steel and brass construction. The best part? The manufacturer makes it on request only.

5) Elite V2 Vape Mod by Gepetto (>$1,000 to <$3,000)

Do you want to look like you’re carrying a vape that costs more than your car? You need the Elite V2 vape mod. Its gorgeous look is the first thing that will catch your eye. The design has a vintage feel with clean lines and sleek curves, not those bulky shapes you see in most mods these days. And the craftsmanship! Every detail is impeccable, from the hand-painted polished wood body to the gold screw holding down the battery. The attention to detail is quite impressive; you can see that Gepetto really put their heart into this device. 

Carol
information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only. Features image by haiberliu for Pixabay.

Looking For A New Home To Buy? Here Are Some Tips.

Carol Highland
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1
Reading Time: 5 minutes

When you’re house hunting, you should not just focus on getting the biggest or nicest house available. You want to buy that home that will be the best investment for your family and provide years of happiness to everyone involved. It is an understatement to say it is not an easy task,  but some things can significantly increase your chances of purchasing a home that will give you great satisfaction for years to come. So here are some tips to help you find a perfect home to buy.

Go Online

Take advantage of the various online tools that can help you in your search for a new home to buy. You can find just about anything online these days including listings of all available properties like those found at https://www.propnex.com/buy?propertyType=HDB, as well as information about the surrounding area such as demographics, housing types, and prices, average income levels, crime rates, etc. Use this information to fine-tune your search, so you are looking at homes in the areas that best meet your needs.

Decide What’s Most Important To You

Do you want a home close to your job? In a wealthier neighborhood with great schools? One that is closer to family or friends? Try to make a decision on what is important to you and prioritize those things before going out house hunting. Filtering out everything except for those things most important to you will make the whole process a lot easier and faster.

According to your priorities, decide what price you want to spend on a home and stick to it as much as possible! This is quite tough for many people and requires the ability to leave the asking price be and look at homes that may seem unimpressive compared to others in the area because of their lower price tag. Remember, even if your heart skips a beat over what seems like an amazing deal, if it’s out of your price range, then do not bother looking at it any further than just passing by!

Photo by Jaye Haych on Unsplash

Speak To A Realtor

A realtor, especially one who specializes in the area you would like to buy a home in, can offer invaluable advice about properties and neighborhoods. They will know about all the available homes on the market and which ones might be good for your needs. They can also show you their inventory, so you don’t waste time going to houses that aren’t what you are looking for. The realtor can also give you tips on how to make your offer look the best it possibly can be, as well as help you through the negotiation process.

Keep in mind that realtors work for you, so they will be much more willing to negotiate on your behalf rather than someone who has their interests at heart as a homeowner would.  

Schedule Multiple Showings

If there is a particular house you like, schedule several showings so you can get a good feel for it and determine whether or not it is right for your family. You might also see something at one viewing that needs to be re-addressed before making an offer on the property. Remember to take notes as well as some pictures of any problems that need to be fixed or items that require maintenance. Another good strategy is to show up early and tour the neighborhood as well as any nearby parks, schools, or other areas that your family might use. You want to be sure you know what it would be like living there daily.

Take Your Time

Do not feel pressured into buying a home just to get one. Remember, you can always say no if it doesn’t meet all your criteria for the perfect family house. It is okay to tell the realtor that you want some space and alone time to think about it before making an offer on any of the homes they show you, no matter how many times they ask if you are ready to move forward with an offer on the property. If something inside says no, then do so. Wait until another day or even another realtor, if necessary, until you find your dream home to buy.

When you find that perfect home, don’t rush into anything! A little bit of patience on your part can save a lot of headaches and heartaches in the long run. Spend time thinking about what you like and dislike about each home you visit. Make sure it has everything you need before putting in an offer or deciding it’s not right for you or your family.

It may take some time and a lot of patience for you to find your dream home. However, with these tips in mind, you should be able to quickly and easily narrow down what you are looking for and find a perfect match.

Carol
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only. Featured Photo by Maria Ziegler on Unsplash.

Importance of Eco-friendly sheets for a better night’s sleep

Jennifer Hard
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1
Reading Time: 4 minutes

Living a green and sustainable life comes with many benefits that protect you and your surroundings. Whether at home, office or traveling across the world, leading this kind of lifestyle requires you to make eco-friendly decisions that can improve the quality of your life. 

When designing your home to be more eco-friendly, people don’t realize the importance of having an eco-friendly bedding. Your bedroom is one place in the house that defines comfort, peace, and relaxation. 

Switching your traditional sheets to eco-friendly sheets can make a huge difference in your life and help you sleep better. 

Living an eco-friendly lifestyle is nothing short of a luxury as it is high-quality and yet reduces your carbon footprint on the earth. So, if you are interested in improving your bedroom, this bedding range from Ecoy will improve your sleep experience. 

Now, let us dive into more details on why we should consider eco-friendly sheets in our homes:

Hypoallergenic 

We spend around one-third of our lives in bed and choosing the right bed sheet will ensure that we sleep better without any discomfort. Eco-friendly sheets are often hypoallergenic which means they are free from pesticides, bleach, or other harmful chemicals which are used in preserving regular sheets. Organic sheets have been quite effective in improving sleep for asthmatics or people with allergies. So if you are sensitive to dust or allergic, an eco-friendly sheet can be a great alternative. 

Regulate Body Temperature 

Synthetic materials restrict air circulation and make you sweat while sleeping. The more you sweat, the more it disrupts your sleep. 

By using sheets made of eco-friendly materials such as wool, bamboo, etc, they will be able to regulate your body temperature efficiently and promote a good night’s sleep. 

Sustainable sheets have the ability to absorb body moisture which helps your body stay cool during the summer and warm in the winter. 

eco-friendly-bed-sheets

Biodegradable 

One of the biggest benefits of using eco-friendly sheets is that they are biodegradable. If you are someone who wants to live a green life, knowing that your sheets won’t end up in some landfill will keep your consciousness clear and sleep better. 

Most eco-friendly sheets can be broken by living organisms and return to nature within two weeks. This reduces your carbon footprint on earth and does not cause harm to the environment we live in. 

Comfort 

Eco-friendly sheets are known for their comfort and softness compared to traditional sheets. 

Some of the main reasons why they are comfortable are because they are free of harmful chemicals, increase breathability, and are moisture free, and they are often weaved to your comfort. 

Organic sheets such as bamboo, organic cotton, and so on are made to enhance your sleep experience and promote a healthier sleep. 

eco-friendly-sustainable-sheets

Durability 

If you are searching for sheets that are of high quality and high durability, eco-friendly sheets are exactly what you need. The sheets are known to last long upto 10 years or even more if you maintain them well. 

They don’t need any additional dry cleaning but they are completely safe for regular washing. Materials such as bamboo do not lose colour easily and maintain their smoothness and moisture ability longer. 

Conclusion

If you want a good night’s sleep, eco-friendly sheets are the best option for you. Choosing high quality sheets will definitely affect the quality of your sleep. 

So make sure that you purchase the right materials from premium brands for most effectiveness. Here is a list of eco-friendly luxury brands that can work great for you!

Jennifer
Information sourced by the author for luxuryactivist.com. All content is copyrighted with no reproduction rights available. Images are for illustration purposes only.

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