Sidewalks

Tag: wellness

  • How to EXIT Your lazy & Unmotivated Era

    How to EXIT Your lazy & Unmotivated Era

     

     

     

     

    It all began a few months ago…

    I would wake up feeling exhausted despite getting a good night’s sleep. From there, things spiralled into a constant battle to get out of bed and a general lack of motivation.

    Naturally, my to-do list seemed to grow longer by the day, and I was overwhelmed by work and home obligations. I felt like I was forcing myself to keep going when all I really wanted to do was nothing. But even when I did allow myself some downtime, I couldn’t shake the stress of everything I still needed to do.

    You may have noticed huge gaps in the last months where I didn’t post despite already having so much written out. Most days, I procrastinated by watching movies or mindlessly scrolling through my phone, which only made me feel worse about myself.

    Then, there was a turning point.

    I finally decided enough was enough and decided to make a change. I felt horrible about neglecting things that were important to me, like my blog. Eventually, I found my way out of that lazy and demotivated state.

     

    Here are SEVEN tips that got me out of my lazy and unmotivated era-

     

    1. Journal-

    Are you actually lazy, or do you just have invisible barriers that make it hard to get stuff done & make you feel stuck?You have to be aware of whether you are actually “lazy” or struggling with something mentally that requires more than just “pulling yourself together.” Sometimes, being stuck has a deeper meaning. Pull out your journal and ask yourself, ” What are the situational factors holding you back?” “What steps can you take to improve it?” You’ll never know the real cause if you don’t take the time to be self-aware.

     

    2. Set clear goals

    Before you prioritize your tasks, it’s important first to establish what truly matters to you. Setting clear and SMART goals will give you the direction you need. Your goal should be challenging yet attainable; you’ll want to provide a specific timeline and focus on getting real results. Once you’ve set your goal, list all the tasks to help you reach it. Remember, having too many tasks can lead to burnout, so prioritization is key.

     

    3. Eat that frog

    Finish the bigger or high-effort task first to free up the rest of the day for others. This has been a game-changer for me. If you’re feeling unproductive, it might simply mean you can’t prioritize because you have too much to do. It all boils down to a basic question: “Which task do you think you wish you did first but aren’t doing?”

     

    4. Prioritize

    Many experts recommend taking a moment to consider two important questions when tackling your tasks: Is this urgent? Is this important? Remember to prioritize urgent and important work, then move on to important tasks.

     

    5. Exercise

    is one of the best ways to exit from an unmotivated or lazy state of mind.

     

    6. Face what you’re putting off.

    So, sometimes, I find myself in situations where I have to tackle something new and out of my comfort zone. And you know what? Instead of diving in, I have this terrible habit of stressing and procrastinating. But I’ve realized that once I actually start the task, the procrastination just melts away. So, put down your email and chat, turn off notifications, and get to work. You’ll be much happier once you’ve crossed it off your list.

     

    7. Time Blocking is your friend

    Back in 2020, I came across this awesome technique called the Pomodoro method. It’s all about studying for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break. If procrastination isn’t really an issue for you, feel free to adjust the Pomodoro to suit your style. Oh, and my friend John absolutely loves the Forest app – he says it’s a game-changer for staying productive and removing distractions.

     

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    The tips described in this blog worked for me. If they worked for you, let me know. If something else worked for you, share it in the comments!

     

     

    (Photo Credits- Pinterest)

     

     

     

    Note: If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission or have a sponsored relationship with the brand, at no cost to you. We recommend only products we genuinely like. Thank you so much.

     

  • 16 Things Every Person Should Do For Themselves Once a Year

    16 Things Every Person Should Do For Themselves Once a Year

     

    1. Take a solo trip 

    It doesn’t have to be extravagant or pricey – even a quick weekend getaway to a nearby city can be a great way to unwind and explore. Whether you’re single or in a relationship, it’s so important to carve out some time for yourself and have a change of scenery. Visit a new city or country, try a local restaurant, check out an art gallery and soak up the nightlife to break free from the daily monotony. 

    Plan a staycation in the mountains if you’re searching for peace and calm. This way, you can spend quality time in nature, meditate, and reflect on your inner self. The idea is to do what really makes your soul happy. 

     

    2. Declutter your space 

    Imagine waking up to a clean and organized space every morning, with only what you need and love. Sounds refreshing, right? It’s time to give yourself the gift of intentional living. 

    Let’s start with your space – say goodbye to anything you haven’t worn in the past year and donate it to an organization you care about. It’s a great way to give back and make room for new clothes that you’ll actually wear. While you are at it get rid of old bills, statements, toys, and anything else that’s just taking up space. 

    And when you’re done, rearrange your space to create a more functional and inviting atmosphere. You deserve to live in a healthy, decluttered, and organized space. 

     

    3. Get a complete body checkup

    Did you know that getting a complete physical checkup from your doctor at least once a year is a great way to take control of your health? It doesn’t matter how old you are; establishing fitness and health goals is always a good idea. Also, remember to visit your dentist and get checked by a gynecologist every year. 

     

    4. Review your year 

    Every year, around my birthday, I indulge in a beautiful ritual of self-reflection. I pull out my photos, videos, and journals and relive all the fantastic moments I’ve experienced. It’s a great way to celebrate your progress, evaluate your accomplishments, and set exciting new goals for the future. 

    I am always amazed at how far I’ve come, and it gives me an incredible sense of motivation to note the areas of my life that still need improvement. 

     

    5. Take yourself out on a date

    I wholeheartedly believe that taking yourself out on dates is an absolute must – no matter whether you’re single or in a relationship. Here are some amazing solo date ideas that will make you fall in love with yourself all over again.

    Put on your pretty dress, do your hair, bring out your red lipstick, and take yourself out to dinner at a restaurant you’ve always wanted to go to. Forget about the cultural notion that you can’t dine alone in a restaurant. On the contrary, it was one of my life’s most liberating, calming experiences. Try it for yourself, and you’ll see what I mean. 

     

    6. Call/meet a friend you haven’t spoken to in years

    Do you have a friend that you haven’t spoken to in years? Well, why not give them a call or arrange a meet-up? Spend hours reminiscing about all the good times you had together and laughing until your cheeks hurt. Trust me, it’s one of the best feelings in the world! 

     

    7. Go over your finances

    Believe it or not, organizing your finances is the first step towards a more fulfilling life. 

    Take a closer look at your monthly and annual income and expenditure. Discover what you’re spending the most money on and why.

    Are you addicted to shopping for clothes, even though you already have a closet full of them?

    You can say you want to stop spending money on clothing, but you’re not going to stop if the drive behind it is an insecurity about the way you look.

     It’s time to break the cycle and overcome any insecurities or impulsive behaviours driving your spending habits.  

    8. Surprise a loved one

    How about doing something extra special and unexpected for someone you care about? Surprise a friend with a beautiful bouquet of flowers, schedule a relaxing massage for someone who really needs it, or treat a loved one to a fancy dinner. 

     Just one act of kindness can brighten someone’s day and make them feel valued and loved. An unexpected kind gesture can make all the difference in someone’s life!

     

    9. Buy a meal for someone who can’t afford it 

    Small acts of kindness can go a long way in making the world a more compassionate place. Consider buying a meal for someone who can’t afford one. Try to do it as often as you can. Know that your kind gesture has a ripple effect, inspiring others to do the same and positively impacting the world.

     

    10. Dedicate a month to eating just healthy food

    Imagine dedicating an entire month to eating nothing but healthy, nutritious foods!

    Say NO to fried food, junk food, soda, white bread, ice cream, or sugary treats for at least one month. You’ll be amazed at your increased energy level, improved concentration, and overall physical health. I know from personal experience that doing this brings excellent results.

     

    11. Do a social media detox

    Say goodbye to the mindless scrolling, endless comparisons, and self-doubt that social media often brings. It’s time for a social media detox! Imagine a life where you unplug and connect with things that genuinely bring you joy and energy. 

    Disconnecting from social media for at least a month can be the perfect opportunity to focus on self-care, personal growth, and connecting with the people and things you love. You might be surprised at how amazing you feel! 

     

    12. Read a book 

    You know that amazing book that’s been sitting on your shelf for months, just waiting to be read? It’s time to finally dive into it and discover the incredible world waiting for you! And don’t stop there – look at the other books on your shelf that have been collecting dust. Make yourself a cozy spot, grab a cup of tea, and transport yourself to another world.  

    13. Reconnect with your inner child 

    How about trying out a new hobby you’ve always wanted but never had the time for? It could be anything from pottery, gardening, embroidery, painting, and cooking. Hobbies are a fantastic way to reconnect with your inner child and have some fun in the process.

     

    14. Plan a family picnic

    How about gathering your family and heading to a peaceful, isolated location for a delightful picnic? Bring mouth-watering food, drinks, and dessert and enjoy them on a cozy picnic mat. Lie down, look at the twinkling stars and just have heart-to-heart with your loved ones. It’s moments like these with your loved ones that make life worthwhile. 

     

    15. Treat yourself to new lingerie

    Buying a new pair of lingerie for yourself can be such a satisfying experience. I relish treating myself to new lingerie every six months, and it feels incredible!  It can be confusing to know when to replace your lingerie. I replace them when they no longer fit me or after a year.

    Now,  you don’t have to throw away anything in good condition. You can add new pieces to refresh your collection instead of waiting for all the old items to break, rip, or go bad.

    16. Last one. Golden Rule: Love yourself. 

    Do it at least once- no, do it as much as you can. Don’t let anyone make you feel like you’re not good enough. You are valuable, no matter where you are in life. This one thing is essential; if you can accomplish it, all the other things on this list will fall into place. So keep going and believe in yourself!

     

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     Is there anything you’d add to this list? What are some things you do for yourself every year? Share in the comments below :*

     

     

     

     

  • How to Not Commit Murder During PMS

    How to Not Commit Murder During PMS

     

    The other day was really tough for me. I was hit with some intense PMS and ended up breaking down in tears for  no reason, which was frustrating. On top of that, during this time, I feel so blah and less than confident about myself, and when I look in the mirror, I feel like I look like Shrek!

    Can you relate?

    And don’t even get me started on the intense anger and irritability that I felt. It was too much to handle. I was picking up fights with my boyfriend for things that happened six months I ago. It was intense, to say the least.

    However, I’ve learned that there are strategies we can use to help us feel our best during this time. It all starts with responding to ourselves with love and respect.

    Doing so allows us to embrace our femininity and feel confident in our skin. That’s why I want to share with you some functional strategies that have helped me feel empowered, confident, and beautiful during PMS .

    Let’s dive in!

     



    1. Get in a workout

    I hear you.

    During PMS, you feel completely drained and exhausted, and you don’t want to leave your cozy bed, let alone hit the gym.

    But trust me, you don’t need to lift weights like a pro athlete to reap the benefits of exercise.

    As someone who regularly jogs, I know that exercise can make a world of difference in easing PMS symptoms.

    There’s no need to push yourself too hard. Try some light stretching, yoga, or simply going for a stroll. The important thing is to get moving.

    Exercise releases happy hormones, and happy people don’t commit murder – it’s science! So, taking good care of yourself during this time is essential to help ease those monstrous PMS symptoms.

     

     

    2. Eat nutritious food

    Did you know that eating magnesium-rich foods can do wonders for your health? That’s right! Foods like avocados, nuts, and seeds are not only delicious but also great for your health. I have experienced it personally, and I can tell you that a magnesium deficiency can lead to migraines and worsen PMS symptoms, including bloating, dizziness, fluid retention, and sugar cravings. Trust me, I’ve experienced it firsthand. 

    Eating a balanced diet that includes tons of leafy greens, smoothies, oats, and fresh vegetable soup is essential to feel comfortable in your body. After all, you are what you eat! 

    I always try to avoid salty and processed foods. However, let’s be honest; unhealthy food cravings can be tough to resist. Listen to your body and indulge in those cravings, like spicy BBQ fries or chocolate, even if they’re unhealthy.

    While I try to avoid them for most of the month, a few days before my period, I let myself indulge in specific irresistible cravings. Ignoring them only makes them worse, leading to unhealthy binging. So, take care of yourself and enjoy the foods you love.

     

    3. Pamper yourself

    We all know that every woman is unique, and so are her PMS symptoms. But guess what—there’s something universal that can help us all feel better during that time of the month—and that’s pampering ourselves! 

    Treat yourself to a luxurious spa appointment, get a fabulous mani-pedi, indulge in a relaxing massage, take a long and soothing bath with Epsom salts and essential oils, and add a little softness to your life. How amazing does that sound?

    Remember, the key to surviving PMS is to be kind and respectful to yourself. So go ahead and pamper yourself, girl!

     



    4.  Sleep

    Have you ever felt the magic of a good night’s sleep or a cozy nap during the day? It’s truly a wonderful feeling! And let me tell you, nothing should ever come between you and your precious sleep. Especially when dealing with PMS, fatigue and exhaustion can be real struggles. But don’t worry. The best thing you can do is to take a nap and let your mind and body relax and recharge. Your well-being is worth it!

     

     

    5. Meditation

    Feeling moody and all over the place during PMS is the worst. I’ve found a little trick that helps me stay grounded and calm my mind. Want to hear it? Meditating takes 10 to 20 minutes out of my day, and it works wonders! I sit still, take deep breaths, and listen to some OM chanting or a guided meditation from the Waking Up app. It works like magic, I tell you! Just give yourself a break for a few minutes and see how it does wonders for your mental health.

     

     

    6. Track your period

    Are you struggling to keep track of your periods and their symptoms? Well, worry no more! Apps like Clue have been super effective in helping women manage their periods. I’ve been using Clue for years, and it’s been a real game-changer. It allows me to keep a digital diary of my PMS and period symptoms, which helps me predict and track my triggers, mood, productivity, and energy levels. And if that’s not enough, it even sends me reminders when I’m about to start my period!

     So, my dear friend, don’t wait any longer if you’re not already tracking your period. Download the Clue today and experience the benefits for yourself!

     

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    Would you add anything to this list? I’d love to know in the comments below. If you find this useful, consider sharing it with a friend to help spread the word. Sending hugs and kisses :*

     

    xo

    Yachna

     

    P.S.

    Juicy tips for hot period sex, & self-care rituals to nourish your sensuality <3

     

    Pic/ Art Credits- Pinterest 

     

     

     

     

  • How To Do A Full Body Detox Cleanse At Home?

    How To Do A Full Body Detox Cleanse At Home?

    Hi,

    How’s it going? This has been a heavy week and I hope everyone’s doing okay.

    I’ve been feeling burnt out, and decided it was time to recharge my batteries by doing a natural cleanse at home for my mind, body, and soul.

    Many people, including myself, believe that we need to go through some glorious and rigorous diet to detox our bodies naturally. Detox is all about our lifestyle habits. Are you drinking enough water? Getting quality sleep? Stretching? Moving your body? Eating fruits and veggies? It’s how we show up for ourselves daily.

    Always remember, detox is an act of self-love that helps you take control of your body, home, and life. While I am not a certified nutritionist, practising these things have been life-changing for me. Here’s how you can start your natural detox journey at home today:

    1) Food:

    Say no to caffeine, processed sugar, processed food, alcohol, and dairy. Add more salads, organic veggies, green soups, fresh fruits, seeds, herbal teas and lemon juice to your diet. It’s so important to be intentional with the food you eat. Please pay attention to which foods give you energy and which ones take it away. 

     Drink at least 4 litres of water daily to remove all the toxins from your body. Lately, all I’ve been eating are salads, smoothies, fresh juices, and fruit bowls. It’s been a while since I felt this amazing!

    An important tip: The easiest way to incorporate tons of veggies and greens into your daily diet is by making a delicious creamy vegetable soup. 

    2) Environment:

    Create an environment that is toxins-free, clutter-free, and full of positive energy. Be it home or office. Or a home office if you’re working from home like me. Our surroundings have a lot of effect on our bodies, if not the same as the food we put into it. 

    Fresh and healthy plants and flowers, tons of natural light, gentle, a clean and clutter-free environment and pure positive music will help a lot in your detox journey. Add refreshing aromatherapy candles, incense sticks or white sage to cleanse the air.

    3) Sleep:

    Sleep is your body’s repair mechanism. Everything mentioned above is to support and help your own body remove toxins from your body and help it in its function to repair and better itself in the best way. Ensure that your sleeping area is cozy, comfortable, clutter-free, and do a little breathing exercise before going to sleep. Do not eat right before your bedtime. Eating 2-3 hours before my bedtime always seems to work for me. 

    4) Time:

    Like everything in nature, give it time. But do things consistently and with discipline. It’s essential to do fewer things and do it consistently over time. Don’t expect overnight results. 

     A gentle reminder here is to take your time with things. A detox for just a couple of days or a week can only help momentarily, and it’s the long-term commitment to creating a healthy and toxin-free environment for yourself and your family that will help. Making conscious and healthy choices daily that’ll help. The key is to develop a healthy routine. 

    Lastly, the body excellent at removing toxins naturally, and it works incredibly well when you exercise well, eat clean, and hit the bathroom regularly. When you have fewer toxins in your body, it gives you more energy, better rest at night, and mental clarity. 

    Remember: You don’t need to go on a juice cleanse or go on a water diet for a week. When it comes to your detox journey, it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Start where you’re at, find your balance, and be more forgiving to yourself.

    I hope this helps 🙂

    Do you any added tips for a natural cleanse at home? I’d love to hear in the comments below.

    xx

    Yachna

    P.S.

    Soothing words for your soul.