Yoga, with its deep roots in spiritual tradition and its branches reaching into the modern wellness movement, has found a new canvas in contemporary literature. Through these literary works, we witness how the practice of yoga offers more than just physical benefits; it provides a rich tapestry of philosophical insights, emotional healing, and transformative experiences. It seeps into the essence of our daily lives, influencing not just how we move, but how we live, love, and connect with the world around us.

Likewise, these novels and memoirs are not just about the asanas; they’re about the journey within, the search for balance, the quest for inner peace amidst life’s twists and turns, and the connection to something greater than ourselves. From the bustling streets of India to the quiet corners of a local studio, yoga emerges as a profound journey of the soul.

Stories have the power to transport us, transform us, and transcend the ordinary. They offer a sanctuary, much like our yoga mats do, where we can explore, reflect, and connect on a deeper level. So, are you ready to find your next soul-nourishing read?

I find that reading books such as these really helps me to take my practice of yoga beyond the confines of my mat. They are all enjoyable reads – no textbook vibes here – and yet they offer opportunities for introspection and growth.

Namaste and happy reading!

And when it comes to instilling these mega-important values, children’s books are like the secret sauce. They’re not just bedtime rituals or classroom staples; they’re gateways to understanding, packed with lessons that stick with children long after the last page is turned.

So, I’ve curated the ultimate list – a fab collection of children’s books that aren’t just stories, but life lessons wrapped in whimsical illustrations and captivating narratives. These gems don’t just tell tales; they champion the virtues of kindness, compassion, and empathy, teaching our kids to be the best versions of themselves, one page at a time.

Let’s turn the pages together and inspire the next generation to lead with love. After all, in the eloquent words of Aesop,

No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.

Here’s to shaping the hearts and minds of the next generation of kind, compassionate leaders – one book at a time!

The Importance of Teaching Kindness, Compassion, and Empathy

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the simple, yet profound impact of being kind. But teaching our little ones about kindness, compassion, and empathy is like laying the foundation for a skyscraper. It’s not just about building good humans; it’s about creating a world where everyone feels a little more understood, a little less alone.

Now, you know I’m all about the facts, and the research is crystal clear on this. Studies show that kids who are taught to embrace empathy and kindness from a young age are not only happier but they’re also more successful in the long run. We’re talking better relationships, stronger emotional intelligence, and an unshakeable sense of self-worth. It’s like giving your child a secret superpower that helps them navigate the world with grace and resilience.

And let’s not forget the ripple effect. When one child learns to lead with empathy, they become a little beacon of light in their community, inspiring others to do the same. It’s like that morning glow-up routine that leaves you feeling unstoppable, but for your soul.

Experts across the board, from psychologists to educators, are singing the same tune: fostering these values early on is key. It’s about more than just “playing nice”; it’s about equipping our kids with the tools they need to understand and respect the diverse tapestry of human emotions and experiences.

So, as we dive into the world of whimsical tales and heartfelt stories, remember, we’re not just reading books; we’re planting seeds of kindness and empathy that will grow into something beautiful. Because, in the end, isn’t that what life’s all about? Spreading a little more love, one kind act at a time. Let’s make it our mission, shall we?

So, how did I curate this ultra-fab list of children’s books?

It wasn’t just about picking the prettiest covers or the most popular titles. Nope, we’re going deeper, because our little ones deserve the crème de la crème of stories that not only entertain but also enlighten.

Age-Appropriate Awesomeness – First things first, we’re zoning in on age-appropriateness because we all know a 2-year-old’s vibe is miles apart from a 10-year-old’s. Each book needs to speak their language, literally and figuratively. We’re talking simple, engaging stories for the tiny tots and more complex narratives for the older children, all designed to resonate and spark that lightbulb moment.

Diversity Is Key – Next up, diversity – and I mean in every sense of the word. We’re embracing characters and settings that are as colourful and varied as the world around us. Because every child deserves to see themselves in the pages of a book and to learn about others who might walk a different path. It’s all about building a little bookshelf that mirrors the big, wide world, full of every shade and shape of life.

Morals That Stick – And the moral of the story? It’s got to be solid gold. We’re not settling for anything less than tales that leave a mark, teaching timeless lessons on kindness, empathy, and compassion. These stories should be the ones that end with a cosy chat about life’s big lessons, snuggled up under a fluffy blanket with your mini-me.

The Feel-Good Factor – Lastly, every book on this list had to pass the feel-good test. You know the one – that warm, fuzzy feeling you get when something just hits right. We want our kids to close these books with a smile, feeling a little lighter, a little brighter, and a lot more inspired to spread kindness like confetti.

So, let’s fill those bookshelves with tales that open hearts, change minds, spark conversations, inspire actions and shape a kinder, more empathetic world.

Book Recommendations For Younger Children (Ages 0 to 5 Years)

This hand-picked selection of books will ensure your little one’s book nook is not just beautiful but meaningful, too. These books are not just stories; they’re experiences, lessons woven into the fabric of imagination that teach our children to lead with their hearts.

Book Recommendations For Early Readers (Ages 6 to 9 Years)

As our little ones start to navigate the world with a bit more independence, the stories we share with them can be powerful guides. For those spirited souls aged 6 to 9, I’ve hand-picked a collection of books that are like little lanterns, illuminating the path to kindness, compassion, and empathy. These stories are not just reads; they’re experiences, each one a journey into the heart of what it means to be human.

Book Recommendations For Tweens (Ages 10 to 12 Years)

For those aged 10 to 12, the books I’ve selected are all about depth, growth, and the kind of empathy that shapes world-changers. Each of these books is a gem, polished with the kind of wisdom that speaks directly to the hearts of those standing on the brink of adolescence. They’re not just stories; they’re lessons in life, dressed up in chapters and characters that will stay with your young readers long after the last page is turned.

Reflecting & Inspiring Action

So, you’ve got your hands on this goldmine of heart-warming books – a treasure chest, overflowing with stories that teach our children to look beyond themselves, to connect with others’ hearts, and to navigate the world with kindness as their compass. But how do we turn these reading sessions into real-life lessons that stick? I have a few ideas…

Let’s Talk It Out – After you’ve turned the last page, don’t just close the book and call it a night. Dive into a cosy little chat about the story. Ask your kiddo what they thought about the characters’ choices, how they might have felt in similar situations, and what they would have done differently. It’s all about making those connections between the heart and the mind.

Kindness in Action – Inspire your mini-me to put those lessons into action. If a character did a good deed, brainstorm some simple acts of kindness you can do together. Maybe it’s making a card for a neighbour or planting a tree. It’s about showing them that no act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.

Question Time – Keep a list of go-to questions that can apply to any story, such as:
“How do you think [character] felt when [event] happened?”
“What’s one kind thing you noticed in the story?”
“If you were friends with [character], what advice would you give them?”

Empathy Jar – Create an ‘Empathy Jar’ filled with daily or weekly challenges inspired by your readings. It could be things like give a compliment to a friend or helping out at home without being asked. Each challenge completed gets a little celebration because, let’s face it, every act of kindness deserves its moment in the spotlight.

Armed with these tips and a stack of inspiring books, you’re all set to turn story time into a powerful tool for teaching empathy and kindness. Because, at the end of the day, it’s about more than just reading together. It’s about growing together, learning to see the world through someone else’s eyes, and finding that, in the vast tapestry of humanity, we’re all more connected than we realize.

Whilst a student on the Sound Healing and Therapy Certificate Program at Globe Institute of Recording and Production, my interest was piqued when one of the tutors mentioned that he used to have an Orgone Accumulator. Since I had never heard of such a device, nor indeed of Orgone, and since I respect the tutor as such a mine of fascinating and well-researched information, I knew instantly that I wanted to learn more about it.

During the course, I had developed a particular interest in how to best create the optimal environment for healing and spiritual advancement. This had mostly led me to explore the use of pyramids and crystal grids, but the discovery of Orgonite excited me because it adds a new dimension to my endeavour.

However, it would be remiss of me not to mention that in the process of researching Orgone and Orgonite, I have come upon much disagreement and it has not always been easy to pick the wheat from the chaff! As such, I do not claim to have all of the answers, but instead my aim is to present to you an objective overview of what I have discovered so far.

What is Orgone?

Orgone is the name that Wilhelm Reich (1897 – 1957) gave to the omnipresent and primordial life force, which he observed as a blue radiation and believed to be the basis of all life processes, from the formation of galaxies to the cellular or macro-biological level. This wasn’t a unique concept as most traditional cultures had long held a common belief in an invisible energy which is everywhere and embodies all things – called Qi by the Chinese, Prana by the Indians, and Mana by the Polynesians, for example. However, Reich’s work stands apart from such beliefs in that he discovered Orgone empirically, through experiments, in a scientific way.

Reich was an Austrian medical doctor and scientist. He was a pupil of Sigmund Freud and published many books on psychology before relocating to America and turning his attention to bioelectricity and cosmology. It was in 1939 that Reich discovered that SAPA bions emitted a visible blue fluorescence which killed neighbouring bacteria, made his eyes smart when he looked at it, and could even give him a suntan. Indeed, it had many traits in common with ultraviolet light and it could be argued that it was merely this that Reich was experiencing the effects of, except that this blue light had invigorating properties and caused luminous effects in mid-air where there were no objects to fluoresce off of. Thus, Reich proposed that an etheric bio-energetic life force exists which animates our environment, and he named it Orgone. His laboratory and clinical findings indicated that Orgone could be photographed and measured, and had powerful life-positive biological effects. Essentially, Orgone is the essence of life. Without it, living things die. It’s discovery and subsequent research holds the answer to a healthy and blissful life.

Reich believed that the key to physical and mental health was the balance of this Orgone energy which he divided into two categories – ‘Positive Orgone Energy’ (POR) and anti-biological ‘Deadly Orgone Energy’ (DOE).

Positive Orgone Energy (POR)
POR is organized, structured and coherent. It is generated from nature and enables living organisms to exist in a healthy state.

Deadly Orgone Energy (DOE)
Conversely, DOE is ‘stagnant’ and leads to decay and entropy – very similar to the idea of ‘blockages’ in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Reich believed that DOE was largely responsible for environmental damage and decay on Earth, psychological and mental disturbances in life forms, and the body’s physical degeneration.

Reich believed that trauma could imprint itself on a place or a person, and that energy could be blocked by traumatic experiences and stored in the tissues of the body, causing muscular tension. He termed this accumulation and blockage ‘armouring’ and hypothesized that this stagnant and heavy energy (which prevents the beauty of creativity, love, and positive intention from flowing through) would become DOE and would often be associated with physical and mental disease.

DOE can originate from a bad memory, an act of violence, the EMFs from technology, pollution, or illness.

The Orgone Accumulator

Reich found that Orgone is attracted to and absorbed by every organic material. Non-organic metallic substances also attract Orgone, but they quickly repel it again. Using these properties, Reich developed the Orgone Accumulator to gather Orgone energy in its free form directly from the atmosphere. This is a 6-sided wooden cupboard (about the size of a telephone box) lined with alternating layers of cotton and steel wool, with the inner wall lined with a thin sheet of galvanised steel. The Orgone Accumulator’s organic layers attract the atmospheric Orgone energy which is then directed inward by the metal layers. Any energy reflected outward by the metal layers is reabsorbed by the organic material, attracted back to the metal, and directed toward the inside of the box. The result is a higher concentration of Orgone energy inside the box. The more layers, the higher the concentration.

The Orgone Accumulator became a valuable tool in Reich’s scientific and medical research. Patients would sit inside the Orgone Accumulator, with impressive results. The high concentration of Orgone was found to boost the immune system, improve the health of the blood, shrink cancerous tumours, speed up healing, and relieve pain. Reich also observed that the Orgone energy in the human bio-system could be measured bio-electrically and was indicative of a person’s overall aliveness and vitality; this could often be increased by sitting inside the Orgone Accumulator. Even plants, in complete darkness, would develop chlorophyll and flourish inside an Orgone Accumulator.

More recent research in 2010 has determined that the Orgone Accumulator may have a significant effect on human health and that this could be caused by activation of the parasympathetic nervous system and possibly by an action of the neuro-endocrine system.

It is vitally important to note that Orgone Accumulators merely gather Orgone from the surrounding atmosphere, whether that is POR or DOE. For that reason, Orgone Accumulators should be placed in serene natural environments high in POR, and definitely not near to power grids, electromagnetic fields or nuclear radiation.

In The Orgone Accumulator Handbook, James DeMeo offers Orgone Accumulator construction plans. A free copy of this book in PDF format is available here. Updates to the book can be found here. The materials with which to build an Orgone Accumulator can be purchased here.

This video also shows how to build an Orgone Accumulator:

The Orgone Blanket

For those patients who were bedridden or too weak to sit inside the Orgone Accumulator, Reich invented the Orgone Blanket. The Orgone Blanket was built according to the same principles as the Orgone Accumulator, with alternating layers of organic material (3 layers of sheep’s wool) and inorganic material (2 layers of steel wool). The patient could be completely wrapped or covered, except for the head.

One hour under the Orgone Blanket is enough, and it is not recommended to sleep all night long under the blanket to avoid an overload of energy. However, healthy people can stay under the Orgone Blanket for longer periods of time without side effects.

Moisture significantly lessens the effectiveness of the Orgone Blanket. It is therefore recommended that it is used in dry conditions and it should always be thoroughly dried after use or exposed to the sun to facilitate the evaporation of moisture trapped deep inside.

For anyone interested in making their own Orgone Blanket, these instructions will be useful. Alternatively, Orgone Blankets can be purchased from here and here. Once you have your Orgone Blanket, this link provides recommendations on its use.

Wilhelm Reich’s Cloudbuster

The Chembuster

In the early 21st century, inspired by Reich’s Cloudbuster, Don Croft described a simple, homemade invention called a Chembuster which he demonstrated was able to “disperse and break up chemtrails, allowing for a return of normal blueness to the sky, an invigoration of the air with a clean, fresh smell and the production of rain in those areas where drought is being artificially created by HAARP and other secret weather controlling technologies.”

The Chembuster transmutes DOE (which is the “glue” which holds chemtrails together) into POR, causing the chemtrails to break up and disperse.

For anyone interested in building their own Chembuster, you can find a wealth of information and instructions here, here and here.

What is Orgonite?

Although it was an Austrian Scientist named Karl Hans Welz who invented Orgonite in 1992, Reich’s layering of organic and inorganic materials to accumulate Orgone was key in its development.

Orgonite is simply a mix (in an approximately 1:1 ratio) of a high quality carbon-based epoxy resin (which is organic, due to the fact that it is based on petrochemicals) and metal (which is inorganic) along with one or more quartz crystals. This is poured into a mould (typically in the shape of a pyramid, a disc or cone) and the result is a decorative piece sized anywhere between a paperweight and a household ornament. Orgonite pendants are also common.

Since Reich discovered that increasing the number of layers resulted in a stronger accumulation of Orgone, Welz deduced that it is best to use a fine metal powder. Welz’s son, Karl Victor Welz, continues to make and sell Orgonite and recommends using a 150 micron or finer powder to achieve as many layers as possible per cubic inch. Karl Victor Welz advocates that, in common with Reich’s Orgone Accumulator, Orgonite merely accumulates Orgone from the surrounding atmosphere and thus is capable of accumulating both POR and DOE. It is therefore his opinion that Orgonite should be placed on a sunny windowsill by a plant, for example, and not near any sources of DOE.

However, this point is controversial. In the early 21st century, Croft modified Welz’s formulation, using metal shavings/filings in place of the fine metal powder. Both Croft’s daughter, Nora, and his wife, Carol, have the gift of being able to see subtle energies and they helped him to develop this new formula which he claimed profoundly improved the effect and power of Orgonite, creating not merely an Orgone accumulator but an Orgone generator – i.e. a device which has the ability to convert DOE into POR, essentially acting as a filter to purify negative energies and re-distribute harmonious energy. Of course, this changes everything. Suddenly, this becomes the ideal device to place near to power grids, electromagnetic fields, nuclear power stations and your Wi-Fi router! Indeed, many people are ‘gifting’ Orgonite in a bid to heal the environment, by placing Orgonite by mobile phone masts and other sources of DOE. One of the most prolific gifters worldwide is Georg Ritschl from Orgonise Africa who has gifted over 30,000 pieces across Southern Africa. He recounts how rivers that were dry for decades began flowing with water again when the energy of the land was brought into balance with Orgonite. There is a great deal of anecdotal evidence to suggest that these Orgonite devices transmute DOE into POR, thus mitigating the effects of electromagnetic radiation and positively affecting the local environment. However, both Karl Victor Welz and DeMeo maintain that Orgonite is an Orgone Accumulator and not an Orgone Generator. They believe the Orgonite made according to Croft’s formula to be largely ineffective and speak strongly against the practice of gifting.

Besides the layers of organic and inorganic materials, there is another explanation for the subtle energies generated by Orgonite though. The epoxy resin used to create Orgonite shrinks during the curing process, creating a permanent mechanical stress on the quartz crystal and activating its piezoelectric property, thus generating an electric charge. It is claimed that it is this that allows DOE to be repolarized, and yet quartz crystals are used in both Welz’s and Croft’s designs. This video explains the piezoelectric effect well:

• Science attributes the benefits of Orgonite to its production of a stream of negative ions, which a great deal of research has shown to improve health. An Air Ion Meter can be used to measure positive and negative ions.
• An Electromagnetic Field Meter could be used to detect and compare the electromagnetic radiation emitted by technological devices with and without the presence of Orgonite.
• Heliognosis manufacture the ‘Experimental Life Energy Meter’, a unique device which is able to detect Orgone and is based on the mysterious Orgone Field Meter of Wilhelm Reich.
• Applied Kinesiology (a.k.a. manual muscle testing) can be used to confirm the energetic effects of Orgonite on the individual.

Healing Properties and Benefits of Orgonite

• Promotes spiritual growth and awakening, strengthening visualizations and intentions
• Enhances and deepens meditation
• Boosts immunity and improves the integrity of tissues
• Acts as a powerful healing tool for people and pets, with increased rates of tissue growth, repair, and wound healing
• Reduces stress and tension, promotes mental calmness and a positive attitude, and balances moods and hormones
• Accelerated and healthier growth of plants and crops
• Improved sleep and vivid, positive dreams
• Aligns the chakras, shifting blocks and promoting energy flow
• Aids concentration and mental clarity
• Boosts energy and vitality, and increases stamina
• Reduced hyperactivity and improved cooperation in children
• Improved interpersonal relationships
• Has a calming effect on animals and improves the behaviour of pets
• Protects against EMFs and other harmful frequencies in the home, including fluorescent lighting and smart meters
• Orgonite moulded into the shape of a ‘charging plate’ can be used to restructure water, energetically charge foods, and charge crystals.
• Helps to dispel chemtrails and neutralize long-standing negative energies of all types within ¼ to ½ mile. This includes helping to mitigate energies intended for mind control and other nefarious purposes that are being radiated from underground facilities (Montauk), HAARP, microwave GWEN towers and affiliated ELF microwave antennas.

How to Make Orgonite

For anyone interested in making their own Orgonite, the following links detail the various options and instructions:

Reinhard Stanjek has many YouTube videos about Orgonite and Orgone energy. He also offers a couple of online courses which teach you how to make Orgonite yourself. (Reinhard Stanjek is a proponent of ‘gifting’ and Croft’s work.)

Croft has named his Orgonite devices “Holy Handgrenade (HHG)” and “Towerbuster.” Instructions for making the Towerbuster can be found here, here and here. And if you’d like to make the Holy Handgrenade (HHG), you can find the instructions here and here.

In this video, Karl Victor Welz describes how to make Orgonite very simply using fine metal powder:

Resources and Further Study

The website of Karl Hans Welz, the inventor of Orgonite and the first man-made Orgone Generator, includes his biography and the history of his inventions.

All devices on this website were designed by Karl Hans Welz, the inventor of Orgonite® and the Orgone Generator® (Chi Generator®), and are handmade by his son, Karl Victor Welz. (It is worth noting that Welz registered the name Orgonite as a trademark, and so others selling these devices often refer to them as Orgone devices or similar, which can be confusing.)

James DeMeo’s Research Website, and the Orgone Biophysical Research Lab (OBRL), includes a bibliography on orgonomy / orgone biophysics and a list of resources.

The Wilhelm Reich Museum sells copies of Reich’s books, research and other publications.

This video provides a factually accurate introduction to the life and work of Wilhelm Reich:

Sadly, Wilhelm Reich died broke and destitute in 1957 while in prison for violating FDA regulations, more than 8 tons of his original works and publications having being burned by way of FDA injunction. Kate Bush describes in her song “Cloudbusting” the arrest of Reich through the eyes of his son, Peter.

Energy Dome

For the professionals that number is even higher at 85%, but their injuries tend to come from overuse, i.e. hitting 200 to 500 balls a day.

Low back pain is by far the most common problem experienced by golfers. It accounts for over a third of all golfing injuries and happens to players regardless of age or ability. The lower back is often the source of pain, but rarely the cause of pain.

The leading cause of pain is poor swing mechanics associated with a lack of mobility in the ankles, hips, thoracic spine and shoulders. These issues result in the lower back being over-stressed and eventually breaking down.

When your back does breakdown, you could experience one of the following injuries:

1. Muscle Strain or Ligamentous Sprain
A muscle strain, or “pulled muscle,” and an injured ligament will usually resolve itself in 2-4 weeks. Symptoms may range from a minor ache to a sharp debilitating pain. Most sprains and strains are localised in the lower back region, meaning pain does not radiate into the buttocks or leg.

2. Disc Injury
The lumbar intervertebral disc acts as a spacer between adjacent vertebrae and works as a shock absorber. If excessive or abnormal stressors are placed on the disc, tears can occur, and the inner jelly-like substance can bulge out of the disc or even rupture the disc. Discs degenerate with age and lose their shock absorbing ability. Disc problems can irritate or compress spinal nerves causing pain, often radiating pain into the buttocks or the leg (sciatica).

3. Altered Joint Mechanics or Motor Control
The brain can completely change the lumbar spine’s ability to move just by changing which muscles are firing and in what order. This can occur in the absence of any visible injury. These altered motor control or joint mechanics can begin as a protective mechanism, but can lead to chronic problems over time.

4. Degenerative Arthritis
With over-use, abuse or ageing, spinal joints can become arthritic. Bone spurs and osteophytes can develop. Stenosis, the narrowing of the canal that houses the spinal nerves, is a very common problem with arthritic changes.

5. Bone Fracture
Stress fractures and pedicle fractures (spondylolysis) are common problems seen in the lumbar spines of rotational athletes.

Secondly, you should continue to stretch and strengthen your back between golf sessions, along with a low-impact aerobic exercise programme, such as walking or cycling.

Finally, after the low back pain has subsided, return to playing golf slowly and apply the prevention tips below to help avoid future occurrences. As with so many health conditions, a little effort to prevent injury goes a long way. Address these three key areas to stay out of the ‘back-pain bunker’: Your Body, Your Technique, Your Bag.

Your Body

The first area you can address to prevent injury is your body. These three key recommendations are a great place to start.

Hips and Thoracic Spine: The golf swing requires great rotational mobility to develop and transfer energy to the club. That mobility should come from the joints in the body that are designed to rotate: the hips and the thoracic spine. Creating optimal movement in these areas, which are directly above and below your lumbar spine, should be your first line of defence against lower back pain. If the lower back is forced to repeatedly rotate it’s only a matter of time before an injury will occur. It is important to remember that the hips and thoracic spine do not operate in isolation. Ankle mobility can affect the hip joint and the shoulders work with the thoracic spine in rotation – so you can’t neglect those joints either.

Core Strength: The abdominal muscles may be both the most important and the most neglected muscles for golfers. These muscles promote posture and balance and provide support to the spine. Core weakness results in increased strain on the lower back during the rotational movements associated with the golf swing, and can also make it hard to maintain good posture throughout the swing. Increasing pressure in the abdominals helps protect the back from injury. Your therapist can assess your joint flexibility and muscle strength and give you exercises to improve both.

Warming Up: Going directly to the tee at 7:00 a.m., pulling out the driver, and then proceeding to try to hit the cover off the ball is probably the quickest way to strain your back. Instead, a thorough warm-up before starting to hit balls — including stretching and easy swings — is critical for your muscles to get ready for the game. Overall, muscles that have been stretched and gradually loaded are much less prone to being injured and can take more stress before being strained.

Your Technique

Perfecting your technique won’t just improve your game; it’ll also help prevent injury. The objective of a golf swing is to develop significant club-head speed, and to do this a lot of torque (force) and torsion (twisting) is applied through your lower back. A smooth, rhythmic swing produces less stress on the lower back, minimising muscular effort and load on the spine. With a proper swing, the shoulder, pelvis (hip), and thoracolumbar segments (chest and lower spine) rotate to share the load of the swing. You can achieve good balance while golfing by slightly bending your knees and keeping your feet approximately shoulder-width apart. Your spine should be straight, and you should bend forward from the hips with your weight evenly distributed on the balls of your feet. As most golfers will agree, developing an easy, fluid swing is often easier said than done. Working with a golf pro for a few sessions is a great way to improve your swing and avoid lower back injury, especially since most aspects of a golf swing are not natural or intuitive.

Your Bag

Repeated bending over to pick up your golf bag can stress the lower back, so we’ve put together a list of recommendations for your bag that will help prevent lower back injury.
1. Invest in an integrated golf bag stand that opens when the bag is set on the ground. This can eliminate the need to bend over.
2. Use dual straps (like a backpack) on the golf bag to evenly divide the weight across your back. Bag straps that place all the pressure on one shoulder can be hard on your back. Even better add some wheels.
3. If your bag is on wheels, push rather than pull your bag. Pushing your cart allows for better alignment and less rotational loading on your back compared to pulling your cart with one hand behind you.
4. Do some walking in between holes. Riding on a motorised golf cart may benefit you in not having to physically carry the weight of your clubs; however, sitting and driving over rough terrain could increase spinal compression forces in your back and aggravate pain.
5. When bending over to place or retrieve a golf ball it is important to:
– Stand with one foot in front of the other;
– Use your golf club to support the weight of your upper body;
– Gently tighten your abdominal muscles; and
– Bend from the knees and hips. Never bend over at the waist with straight legs.

In Summary

You can still enjoy playing golf even if you’re experiencing chronic lower back pain. Don’t forget – golf requires much more athletic ability than many people imagine, and ignoring the physical demands of the sport often leads many people to suffer from injuries because of poor general conditioning, lack of warm up, poor technique and limited practice. With regular exercise, including specific strengthening and stretching, and better swing technique, you can experience a significant improvement in performance and reduction in injuries

Enter the magical world of novels that do more than just entertain us. They whisper truths, nudge us towards self-reflection, and sometimes, just sometimes, they transform us in ways we never expected.

You know, there’s this special kind of magic in fiction that self-help books, as insightful as they can be, rarely touch. It’s the magic of living a thousand lives, of walking in someone else’s shoes and coming back… well, different. More aware, perhaps, or just more open to the endless possibilities of what it means to truly live and grow.

So, I’ve put together this little list of 7 novels that I believe every book club with a penchant for diving deep into the heart and soul should consider. These aren’t just stories; they’re journeys – each offering a unique path to pondering life’s big questions and our place in the grand tapestry of existence.

And because I know how precious those book club gatherings are – those nights filled with lively debates, hearty laughs, and sometimes, the kind of silence that says everything – I’ve thrown in some conversation starters for each book. Questions that I hope will spark not just interesting discussions, but maybe even a little bit of that life-changing magic.

So, pick out your next book club read from this list, and let’s set off on an adventure that promises to be about so much more than just turning pages. Let’s explore, question, and maybe even find a bit of ourselves along the way.

Book Club Discussion Questions:

1. How does Santiago’s journey reflect the process of discovering one’s “Personal Legend”? How does this concept resonate with your own life experiences?
2. In what ways do Santiago’s dreams and the obstacles he faces shape his character and spiritual growth?
3. The Alchemist speaks about learning to read the signs of life. Discuss an instance in the book where Santiago reads such signs and how you might apply this to your own life.
4. How do the themes of fate vs. free will present themselves in Santiago’s journey? How does this relate to personal and spiritual development?
5. Discuss the impact of the recurring theme of love in Santiago’s journey. How does love influence his path and spiritual growth?
6. The book suggests that fear is a bigger obstacle than the obstacle itself. Discuss how this idea is presented and its implications for personal development.
7. How does the character of the Alchemist serve as a guide for Santiago, and what can we learn from their interactions for our spiritual journey?
8. In what ways does the physical journey mirror the internal spiritual journey for Santiago? Can you identify similar parallels in your own life?
9. The novel emphasizes the importance of listening to one’s heart. Discuss a situation in the book where Santiago does this and the outcome. How does this apply to personal development?
10. Reflect on the ending of the book. What does Santiago’s discovery teach us about the nature of personal quests and spiritual fulfilment?

Book Club Discussion Questions:

1. Siddhartha’s journey is marked by a series of departures and new beginnings. Discuss how these transitions contribute to his spiritual growth.
2. How does Siddhartha’s relationship with the river symbolize his spiritual development? What does the river teach him?
3. Siddhartha experiences both asceticism and material excess in his quest for enlightenment. How do these contrasting experiences contribute to his understanding of spirituality?
4. Discuss the role of love in Siddhartha’s life, particularly in his relationship with his son. How does this relationship impact his spiritual journey?
5. Kamala and Vasudeva serve as significant guides for Siddhartha. Discuss their influence and what Siddhartha learns from each of them.
6. Reflect on Siddhartha’s realization that enlightenment cannot be taught but only experienced. How does this idea challenge or affirm your understanding of spiritual growth?
7. How does Siddhartha’s view of time change throughout the book, and how does this change reflect his spiritual development?
8. Discuss the theme of seeking vs. finding in the novel. How does Siddhartha’s understanding of this concept evolve?
9. Siddhartha comes to understand that all of life is connected and interdependent. Discuss an example from the book that illustrates this realization and its significance for personal development.
10. Reflect on Siddhartha’s final conversation with Govinda. What does Siddhartha’s smile represent, and what can it teach us about spiritual fulfilment?

Book Club Discussion Questions:

1. Discuss how each of the five people Eddie meets in heaven contributes to his understanding of his life on Earth. How does this reflect on the concept of interconnectedness?
2. Eddie’s journey in heaven reveals the significance of seemingly inconsequential moments in life. Discuss an example and its implications for understanding the value of every action.
3. The novel explores the theme of forgiveness, both giving and receiving. Discuss how this theme is presented and its importance in personal and spiritual growth.
4. Reflect on the lesson Eddie learns about the purpose of life. How does this lesson challenge or affirm your own beliefs about life’s meaning?
5. Discuss the impact of holding onto anger and unresolved issues, as seen through Eddie’s relationships in life and their resolution in heaven.
6. How does the novel’s portrayal of heaven challenge or align with your own conceptions of the afterlife and the idea of life review?
7. The Blue Man tells Eddie, “There are no random acts…We are all connected.” Discuss how this idea is illustrated throughout the book and its significance for personal development.
8. Explore the theme of sacrifice in the novel, particularly through Eddie’s wartime experiences and his final act to save the little girl. What does this suggest about the nature of heroism and selflessness?
9. The novel suggests that everyone has a purpose, often unseen during their lifetime. Discuss how this theme unfolds through Eddie’s story and its implications for understanding one’s own life.
10. Reflect on how the novel addresses the question of why bad things happen to good people through Eddie’s experiences and the people he meets in heaven.

Book Club Discussion Questions:

1. Pi’s survival story is both a physical and spiritual journey. Discuss how his faiths—Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam—guide and sustain him throughout his ordeal.
2. The relationship between Pi and Richard Parker is complex and evolving. Discuss how this relationship mirrors Pi’s internal struggle and spiritual growth.
3. Pi uses storytelling as a means of survival and coping. Discuss the role of storytelling in the novel and its implications for understanding reality and truth.
4. Reflect on the significance of the floating island in Pi’s journey. What does it symbolize in terms of temptation and the search for meaning?
5. The novel ends with two contrasting stories of Pi’s survival. Discuss how the interpretation of these stories relates to faith and belief in the unseen.
6. Explore the theme of resilience in the novel, particularly how Pi’s physical and spiritual resilience contribute to his survival and personal development.
7. Discuss Pi’s understanding of coexistence and interdependence, as illustrated by his life on the lifeboat with Richard Parker and other animals.
8. How does the novel challenge the reader’s understanding of reality and perception, especially through the lens of Pi’s experiences and storytelling?
9. Reflect on the theme of the human-animal connection as presented in the novel, particularly how Pi’s relationship with animals influences his spiritual journey.
10. Explore the significance of the ocean setting in Pi’s spiritual journey. How does the vast, unpredictable nature of the ocean reflect Pi’s internal struggles and growth?

Book Club Discussion Questions:

1. Discuss how Nora’s experiences in the Midnight Library change her understanding of regret and the choices she’s made in life. How does this relate to the concept of personal development?
2. Reflect on the idea that every life has infinite possibilities. How does the novel explore this concept through Nora’s journeys, and what does it suggest about the nature of regret and satisfaction?
3. The Midnight Library presents various versions of Nora’s life. Discuss how one of these lives particularly impacted Nora’s perspective on her own life and the choices she’s made.
4. How does the novel address the impact of mental health on personal and spiritual development, particularly through Nora’s character and her journey in the Midnight Library?
5. Explore the theme of interconnectedness in the novel, particularly how Nora’s actions in different lives affect others. What does this suggest about the significance of individual choices?
6. Discuss the role of Mrs. Elm and the Midnight Library in Nora’s journey toward self-discovery. How does this setting serve as a metaphor for introspection and the exploration of alternate paths?
7. Reflect on Nora’s realization of what truly matters in life. How does her journey in the Midnight Library lead her to this understanding, and how does it resonate with your own experiences?
8. The novel explores the idea of “the best way to live.” Discuss how Nora’s experiences challenge or affirm this concept and what it means for personal fulfillment and happiness.
9. How does the novel address the theme of sacrifice and its role in personal and spiritual growth, particularly through Nora’s exploration of different lives?
10. Explore the significance of the book’s ending and Nora’s final choice. What does this decision say about the acceptance of one’s life and the journey toward self-acceptance and peace?

Book Club Discussion Questions:

1. The novel presents a series of spiritual insights. Discuss one of these insights that particularly resonated with you and how it applies to personal development and spiritual awakening.
2. Explore the concept of synchronicity as presented in the book. Discuss an example from the novel and how it might apply to recognizing and following signs in your own life.
3. The novel suggests that personal energy and its management are key to spiritual growth. Discuss how this idea is portrayed and its implications for personal relationships and development.
4. Reflect on the protagonist’s journey of self-discovery throughout the novel. How does his understanding of the insights change his perspective on life and spirituality?
5. The theme of a global shift in consciousness is central to the novel. Discuss how this theme is developed and its relevance to contemporary society and personal spiritual journeys.
6. Explore the role of nature and the environment in the novel, particularly how they contribute to the characters’ spiritual experiences and growth.
7. Discuss the concept of the “control dramas” as outlined in the book. How do these interpersonal dynamics affect personal and spiritual development?
8. The novel portrays a journey not just of the protagonist but also of those he meets along the way. Discuss how the personal growth of one character influences another within the story.
9. Reflect on the ending of the book and the revelation of the Ninth Insight. How does this culmination of insights offer a vision for personal and societal transformation?
10. Explore the novel’s portrayal of intuition and inner guidance. Discuss how the characters’ experiences with these concepts inspire a deeper connection to one’s spiritual path.

1. Discuss how the character of Ishmael challenges the protagonist’s (and the reader’s) preconceived notions about society and the environment. How does this perspective shift influence personal and spiritual development?
2. Explore the concept of the “Takers” and “Leavers” as presented by Ishmael. Discuss how this dichotomy reflects broader themes of consumerism, sustainability, and living in harmony with the Earth.
3. Reflect on Ishmael’s teachings about the story of evolution and how humans fit into this narrative. How does this alter the protagonist’s understanding of humanity’s role in the world, and what lessons can we draw from it?
4. Ishmael discusses the idea that many of humanity’s problems stem from a flawed mythological foundation. Discuss how examining and challenging our cultural narratives can contribute to personal and collective growth.
5. Explore the theme of captivity vs. freedom in the novel, both in terms of Ishmael’s physical captivity and the metaphorical captivity of human thought and society. How does this theme relate to personal liberation and spiritual enlightenment?
6. Discuss the significance of the protagonist’s realization that “it’s the story that’s wrong.” How does this revelation impact his view of the world, and what implications does it have for personal responsibility and change?
7. Reflect on the role of education and mentorship in the novel, as seen in the relationship between Ishmael and the protagonist. How does this relationship model a path for learning and personal transformation?
8. Ishmael presents a critique of anthropocentrism. Discuss how this critique encourages a re-evaluation of humanity’s place in the natural world and its spiritual implications.
9. Explore the novel’s ending and the protagonist’s commitment to share Ishmael’s teachings. Discuss the importance of storytelling and communication in effecting personal and societal change.
10. Reflect on the moral and ethical questions raised by the novel, particularly in relation to environmental stewardship and intergenerational responsibility. How does Ishmael’s perspective inspire a rethinking of personal and collective values?

As you and your book club pick up these stories, remember that the true treasure isn’t just in finishing a book; it’s in the shared moments of discovery, the lively debates under dimmed lights, and those quiet revelations that ripple through your discussions. The questions I’ve shared are just starting points, little sparks to ignite conversations that I hope will burn bright and warm in your gatherings. There’s something incredibly special about coming together with fellow readers, delving into the depths of a good book, and emerging perhaps a tad wiser, a touch more connected.

Keep turning those pages, keep questioning, keep growing. And most importantly, keep sharing those discoveries with each other. After all, that’s where the real magic happens.

Most bread is vegan, I know, but if you are also avoiding gluten, maize and yeast then things can get tricky. Gluten-free options available to buy in supermarkets often contain maize and recipes often include eggs.

Over the years, we have tried a plethora of bread recipes, most of which we haven’t cared to repeat. A few options have become real favourites though, so today I’d like to share those with you.

1. Adventure Bread by Josey Baker

This bread makes no attempt to imitate wheat loaves but is deliciously unique. It is very dense and not really suitable for making a sandwich with, but it’s lovely spread with hummus or guacamole. It also goes really well with soups.

You can find the recipe online here and it is also printed in his book, Josey Baker Bread.

The only tip I have to add is that the ‘flax seeds’ that the recipe calls for are also known as linseeds and, whichever name is on the packet, they must be whole seeds, not milled.

2. Sweet Potato Flatbread by Brittany Jaroudi

With just 2 ingredients, this flatbread couldn’t be easier to make. We do like to add some dried herbs to the mix though. We add ½ tsp each of thyme, rosemary, oregano, sage and Himalayan pink salt.

3. Red Lentil Flatbread

This is another option that we love to eat with soup. To make this flatbread, I either buy organic red lentil flour, or make my own by blending organic red lentils in my NutriBullet.

Ingredients:
2 to 3 tbs olive oil
96g red lentil flour
2 tbs ground flaxseeds
240ml water

Method:
1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
2. Grease a medium rectangle pan or baking dish (approximately 20cm x 20cm) with olive oil and place in heated oven.
3. Add remaining ingredients in a blender and blend until well combined. It should resemble a thick but pourable pancake mix.
4. Pour mix into the hot and pre-heated dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread forms a golden crust.

We always start our Dru Yoga and Dru Meditation practice with activations and they really are a magical beginning to any session. Beyond the physical benefits of any warm-up, the Dru activations can take you from sloth mode to eager beaver in just minutes! Honestly, they are a real mood-changer and energy booster. They are my number one recommendation to any couch potatoes battling inertia. Just start. They are easy, gentle and as energetic as you want them to be, but once you start you won’t want to stop – I promise.

I like to practice my activations at odd moments throughout the day – like while I’m waiting for the kettle to boil – and on all but the coldest and rainiest days I like to spend 10 minutes or so doing my activations in the garden. Even in the winter, the vigourous movement keeps me warm while I fill my lungs with fresh air and allow the greenery to heal my heart chakra.

Of course, music can add that extra feel-good vibe to your activations so you’ll want to choose uplifting tracks that have a good beat – tunes that make you want to sing and dance. So, here’s my pick of the best music to enhance your Dru Yoga and Dru Meditation activations:

Ah, 2020. What a year! It has been a year epitomised by the quote, “We are all in the same storm, but not in the same boat.” For many there has been anxiety, loneliness and hardship, and my heart breaks for each and every person who has lost a loved one and is suffering that unbearable pain of grief.

Whatever boat you were in this past year, there will certainly have been a myriad of emotions. Self-care and self-love have been more important than ever. We’ve learnt that it’s okay not to be okay, and that a rest is not a failure.

If the mountain seems too big today,
then climb a hill instead.
If the morning brings you sadness,
it’s okay to stay in bed.

If the day ahead weighs heavy
and your plans feel like a curse,
there’s no shame in re-arranging;
don’t make yourself feel worse.

If a shower stings like needles
and a bath feels like you’ll drown,
if you haven’t washed your hair for days,
don’t throw away your crown!

A day is not a lifetime,
a rest is not defeat.
Don’t think of it as failure,
just a quiet, kind retreat.

It’s okay to take a moment
from an anxious, fractured mind.
The world will not stop turning,
while you get realigned.

The mountain will still be there
when you want to try again.
So climb it in your own time,
and love yourself ’til then.

Laura Ding-Edwards

When considering only my personal experiences of the year, I consider 2020 to have been a year of many blessings. COVID-19 forced us all to slow down and take stock. Taking a step back from the rat race that had become my life over the last 2 years allowed me to completely re-think the direction I am steering my life and businesses in. Whilst I certainly didn’t choose the events that struck the world this year, I did have the ability to choose how I reacted. I saw 2020 as a year of new opportunities and I wanted to grab them with both hands and use the time to my advantage.

Gratitude

There has been so much to be grateful for this year. I have such a deep sense of gratitude for my privileged ‘boat’ – for my own health and that of my family, for having my loved ones by my side through thick and thin, for having food on our tables and a warm and comfortable home with all the mod-cons we take for granted nowadays, and for access to healthcare, provided by brave and selfless individuals.

Online Yoga Classes

Like most yoga teachers across the country, I’ve taken to Zoom! My Dru Yoga for Healthy Backs classes have been running online for about 6 months now and not only have they been effective, but I think we have discovered some advantages too. Geographical limitations are a thing of the past and gone is the inertia of turning out on a cold night. No more excuses! It’s been an honour to hold space for such a lovely group of people and welcome them ‘into my home’. Fostering this sense of community has seemed more important than ever in these times of social isolation.

Fiona Dawn Designs

I was very excited to launch Fiona Dawn Designs this year – my very own range of yoga-inspired clothing and accessories. Every item is unique, designed by me and exclusively available from my stores. I’m proud to say that the clothing is 100% sweatshop-free, eco-friendly and suitable for vegans. Being able to make those claims didn’t come easily and there was a lot of research and frustration involved in the sourcing, but those values were important to me and through dogged perseverance I got there in the end!

I certainly improved my graphic design skills along the way and discovered the wonders of Gimp as I endeavoured to get the designs that were in my head onto the screen, ready to be printed onto my clothing and accessories. I’ve been designing websites since I created my first ecommerce store in 2005, but I’m continually learning new tricks and this project has taught me a lot. Every day’s a school day, as they say, and that has certainly been true in 2020.

Online Treatment for Children with Dyspraxia

In another life, I have my own private physiotherapy practice assessing and treating children with dyspraxia and other co-ordination difficulties. Since March 2020, I have been offering treatment sessions online. It’s been working really well and the sessions are proving to be as effective as ever. Again, there are advantages too. I used to treat children in their own homes or schools, but I no longer have to turn away children who live too far away and the expense and time involved in travel is a thing of the past. I’ve also spent time completely re-designing my website which had previously been a rushed effort that I was ashamed to send people to.

Little Joys

A few years ago now, my uncle said that we could all do with more joy in our lives and it was one of those phrases that just ‘stuck’ with our family and is often repeated. Joy has become a word that reminds me of my uncle, who sadly passed away in 2016, and 2020 has certainly been a year for appreciating the little joys.

We have enjoyed spending more time in the garden, often eating our breakfast outside and playing Bananagrams outdoors too, keen to breathe the fresh air and enjoy the silence and enhanced bird song that the reduced volume of traffic has afforded us. We have done our Dru yoga activations in the garden on all but the coldest and rainiest of days and, as we do every year, we have grown our own veggies.

Indoors, a codeword puzzle became part on our daily routine, as did playing Animal Crossing: New Horizons on my Nintendo Switch. Board games have always featured strongly in our lives and our most-played games of 2020 were Dead of Winter and This War of Mine. We have also enjoyed a few jigsaw puzzles, our favourites always being the Wasgij ones.

During those times when lockdown restrictions were eased, we were so grateful to have our camper van. Whilst we felt safer staying in the UK this year, we were still able to discover some lovely new places and a couple of wild camping spots that were so special that we will certainly return to them. I have just (literally just) started a blog at Little Bird on Wheels to share what we have learned from 11½ years of camper van ownership.

Camaraderie

I know there have been the rebels and the ‘fakedemic’ conspiracy theories but, for the most part, the country has pulled together – and that feels good, doesn’t it? We’ve embraced new rules, we’ve got to know our neighbours better and we’ve generally looked for ways to help others. There’s been a sense of camaraderie and it would be a shame if that is lost when ‘normality’ returns.

I expected that I would have more time to read this year – perhaps even time to clear some clutter and work on home improvements as so many have done. I guess I have just used my time differently but I seem to have been as busy as ever. There certainly hasn’t been time to get bored and I’ve had to make a conscious effort to fit reading into my schedule. I’ve read some real gems this year though that I’d love to share with you.

Healing is Voltage by Jerry Tennant struck me as such an important book and one which I feel every healthcare professional should read, indeed every human being should read.

It beautifully describes the link between the acupuncture meridians, our fascia, the voltage in our cells, and chronic disease. Sure, the book really needed a good editor and the quality of the images is poor, but the content makes it worth looking past those factors.

“Every cell in the body is designed to run at -20 to -25 millivolts. To heal, we must make new cells. To make a new cell requires -50 millivolts. Chronic disease occurs when voltage drops below -20 and/or you cannot achieve -50 millivolts to make new cells. Thus chronic disease is always defined by having low voltage. This book tells you how to measure your voltage in each organ, how to correct it, and how to determine why your voltage dropped enough to allow you to get sick.”

In February 2020, I was honoured to attend a 5-day Yin Yoga teacher training course with Norman Blair. That week was pure bliss and so therapeutic for me. By the end of the week, I felt calm – and perhaps knew for the first time what it meant to be truly calm. I felt mentally strong, ready to go boldly forth into the world once more, with a sense that anything was possible. And then, shortly afterwards, COVID-19 struck the UK with avengeance. Still, I was to remain grateful for that wonderful time spent training with Norman Blair. Norman has offered regular online classes, free of charge, to his past students throughout the pandemic and is continuing to do so now. Those classes have been a real retreat – a breath of fresh air. Between classes, Norman’s book, Brightening Our Inner Skies: Yin and Yoga, has been a real inspiration.

My mum’s acupuncturist, Danapriya, published a book this year and we couldn’t wait for it to hit the door mat! He is such a lovely soul and simply being in his presence feels calming and healing. We just knew his book would be a joy to read, and we weren’t wrong! It’s Not Out There is an easy read that’s just like a chat with Danapriya himself, hearing stories of his journey through life. It’s far more than that too though. It’s packed full of wisdom and positive vibes.

“Most of us constantly look outside ourselves for something: happiness, love, contentment. But this something is not out there. It is within us. We are full of these qualities: happiness, love, contentment and more. In It’s Not Out There, Buddhist teacher and mentor, Danapriya, helps you to look inside yourself in such a way that life becomes more vivid, joyful and extraordinary. If you want to suffer less and to live life more fully, this book is for you. It’s about seeing the reality of the human predicament, and seeing through the illusions that create unnecessary pain for yourself and others. This book uncovers the fertile ground of your own potential, and enables you to live the life you are here for. Stop, look, listen and sense, you are worth it.”

I have loved Pride and Prejudice since that infamous BBC version aired in 1995. Being by far the best adaptation in my opinion, largely since its length allowed it fewer omissions but also because its spirit is faithful to the original and Colin Firth simply is Mr Darcy, I have watched it more times than I care to count.

I’m ashamed to admit that it wasn’t until this year that I actually read the book itself (Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen) along with Longbourn by Jo Baker, which tells the story from the servants’ perspectives and is an absolute delight.

I can also thoroughly recommend Xandra Robinson-Burns’ Letters from Jane Austen to guide you through reading Pride and Prejudce. Through weekly digital letters, each one corresponding to a few chapters of the novel, Xandra provides a modern-day commentary and shares Jane Austen’s wisdom in a relatable way with journal prompts to aid your reflection.

The Extraordinary Hope of Dawn Brightside is written by a friend of a friend – Jessica Ryn – a former homeless resettlement worker who fought to save a hostel for the homeless and has written a book inspired by the people she met. Although it addresses serious issues, it’s an uplifting, feel-good novel – exactly what we all need right now – chock-full of kindness and hope.

“Dawn Elisabeth Brightside has been running from her past for twenty-two years and two months, precisely. So when she is offered a bed in St Jude’s Hostel for the Homeless, it means so much more than just a roof over her head. But with St Jude’s threatened with closure, Dawn worries that everything is about to crumble around her all over again. Perhaps, with a little help from her new friends, she can find a way to save this light in the darkness? And maybe, just maybe, Dawn will finally have a place to call home…”

If you are familiar with the Law of Attraction then there isn’t really anything new in You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero, but sometimes we just need to hear something said in a different way, or just simply hear it again, and again. Whether you’re a Law of Attraction newbie or an old hand at all things spiritual, this book is a joy to listen to. (I listened to the audiobook version of the book and would thoroughly recommend it. It is narrated by the author and her narration really makes the book.)

“You Are a Badass at Making Money is the book you need if you’ve spent too much time watching money land in your bank account and then roll through your fingers. Jen Sincero went from living in a converted garage to traveling the world in five-star luxury in a matter of years and knows all too well the layers of BS one can get wrapped up in around money, as well as what it takes to dig your way out. In this funny, fascinating and practical book, she goes in-depth on how powerful our thoughts are and how our bank accounts are mirrors of our beliefs about money. You Are a Badass at Making Money combines laugh-out-loud comedy with life-changing concepts, all boiled down into manageable, bite-size tips so that you can put them into practice and get life-changing results.”

Whilst many are pleased to leave 2020 behind and move on, I don’t want to forget this past year. Of course no one would choose to live through a world war, or indeed a pandemic, but these major events that form part of our history teach many lessons and help to shape a generation. I want to remember how I have felt, the lessons I have learned and the unique experiences of 2020.

I am pieces of all the places I have been, and the people I have loved. I’ve been stitched together by song lyrics, book quotes, adventure, late night conversations, moonlight, and the smell of coffee.

BROOKE HAMPTON

Chances are you’ve seen jade rollers EVERYWHERE. They’ve been adorning every beauty blogger’s Instagram feed for a few years now, and yet still I was slow to jump on board. Why? I have no excuses. The jade roller is a cheap little tool which will last a lifetime. It adds only about 1 minute to your skincare routine and the benefits make it a no-brainer. I suppose I always assumed it was too simple to be effective, but now I’m hooked and I believe EVERYONE should own a jade roller.

So, what is a Jade Roller?

Jade rollers are hand-held facial massaging tools. Inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, they have been used since ancient times to boost circulation, increase lymphatic drainage, reduce wrinkles, relax the facial muscles, and improve skin elasticity.

The Benefits:

• increases circulation to the skin, boosting the flow of oxygen and nutrients to its surface
• promotes lymphatic drainage and boosts the skin’s natural detoxification process
• relaxes facial muscles, relieving tension and smoothing out the skin
• improves absorption of skincare products
• stimulates anti-inflammatory properties in the skin
• improves the tone of facial muscles and has a gentle lifting effect
• gets the complexion glowing radiantly
• relieves stress
• soothes inflammation and reduces puffiness and dark circles under the eyes
• tightens the skin and reduces fine lines
• minimizes pores and lessens congestion and breakouts

How I use my Jade Roller

It couldn’t have been easier to add the jade roller into my skincare routine. I use it every morning and evening after applying my facial oil (scroll down for my favourites).

I store the jade roller in my beauty fridge overnight for a refreshing and de-puffing treat in the morning. The cool stones really help to reduce dark under-eye circles too and leave me feeling soothed and much more awake. At night I heat the stones in some warm water though. That helps my facial oil to m-e-l-t into my skin and penetrate more deeply. Try it – it will leave your skin glowing!

I spend about one minute rolling the jade roller all over my face and neck. It really feels as though I am ironing out the wrinkles! I start by rolling up my neck to lift and tighten the skin there. Then, applying a gentle pressure through the jade roller, I roll in upward and outward motions all over my face, working up my face from the chin. Gentle is the key here. It should never be painful or uncomfortable at all. Starting at the chin, I work out along the jawline. Then from the nose, I roll out towards my ears. Applying very light pressure, I roll just below the brow bone, out towards the temples. Then I roll just above the eyebrows, rolling downwards towards the outer corner of my eyes. Then I place the jade roller between my eyebrows and roll upwards towards my hairline, gradually moving out across my forehead. I finish up the work on my face by rolling across my forehead, working outwards from the centre. Finally – and this is the most important step of all – I make sure to work on the sides of my neck, to boost lymphatic drainage and move any fluid retention downwards towards to the collarbone region where it can enter the circulatory system and get filtered by the kidneys. I simply roll up and down either side of my neck a few times, starting at the side of my jaw and ending at my collarbone.

Shop my Favourites and Get Rolling!

“What on earth is an acupressure mat?” I hear you ask. Well, it’s essentially like a little bed of nails. But wait – before you hit the back button, bear with me because this little mat is amazing. It’s like having your own personal masseuse and it’s the ultimate self-care tool. Sure, it’s a little spiky and uncomfortable at first, but it soon becomes warm and sooooo deeply relaxing.

The underlying health principals of a bed of nails originate in ancient Eastern medicine. This ancient Ayurvedic tool stimulates thousands of acupressure points across the body and was once used by gurus and yogis to restore balance to the body, mind, and spirit.

Modern-day acupressure mats feature massage discs which contour to the shape of your body. On these massage discs are thousands of sharp spikes which apply pressure to the skin and muscles, stimulating the nervous system, natural blood flow and triggering pressure points that assist your body’s healthy functioning.

I first tried an acupressure mat at The Yoga Show about 10 years ago and, for me, it was an instant hit! I snapped one up soon after and it’s become a beautiful addition to my own yoga practice. I often lie on the mat for savasana; it induces such a deep state of relaxation.

But you certainly don’t have to practice yoga to benefit from using an acupressure mat. I lie on my acupressure mat for 20 minutes before bed each night, as part of my night-time sleep routine, and it has really helped me to fall asleep quickly and to sleep really deeply too. Sometimes I practice coherent breathing whilst I lie there and sometimes I listen to an audiobook. Either way, it’s a super relaxing experience and it sets me right up for a good night’s sleep.

As an added bonus, it’s ultra light and portable so I’ll often take it with me when I’m travelling too.

For best results it is recommended that the acupressure mat is used for 20 minutes daily, and it is claimed that this may help to:

• reduce stress and anxiety, soothe the mind and boost your mood (by promoting the release of endorphins and oxytocin – your body’s natural ‘happy hormones’)
• relieve insomnia and encourage deep sleep
• support healthy blood circulation and oxygenate the body
• relieve aches and pains
• relax muscles and release muscle tension and stiffness
• relieve headaches, and back or neck pain
• rejuvenate tired, achy feet
• relieve constipation
• improve skin complexion
• reduce cellulite
• boost energy levels and relieve feelings of fatigue (Top tip: Stand on your mat for 2-3 minutes in the morning to wake up the body and revive tired feet.)

So, the benefits sound amazing and you want to give it a try… but you still just can’t get over the thought that it’s going to be painful, right? Let’s talk about that again. I’ll be honest – acupressure is a powerful treatment and you may initially feel some discomfort, particularly in areas of the body where tension is high. But within minutes any unpleasant sensations will transform into tingling, pulsating, and deep warmth as the body adjusts and relaxes, leaving you with an overall sense of calm and restoration. With regular use, you probably won’t feel any discomfort at all as the tension in your body eases in the areas where the mat is applied. If you do find it too intense with bare skin though, you can start by wearing a thin T-shirt or placing a pillowcase over the mat. Using the mat whilst lying on your bed, rather than the floor, can reduce the intensity too. Seriously, give it a chance peeps – you’ll be so glad you did.

Reap the Benefits of an Acupressure Mat for Yourself…