Aromatherapy
The Power of Quiet
Your Savings Plan
Sophrology
Discover Your Purpose
Time Management
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This Issue proudly brings you
Photography/illustrations: Pexels, Unsplash
Contributors
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Mickayla Hosking, Joyclyn O’Neill, Andrew Johnson
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Editor-in-Chief Jacqueline Hodges Designer Freya Kassulke
About Embrace
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10 ELLEN MEDIA Embrace Magazine is published by 10 Ellen Media (ABN: 23 645 770 350) Articles express the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of Embrace or 10Ellen Media. The Embrace privacy policy is located at https:// embracemag.co/privacy-policy/ 10 Ellen Media’s privacy notice can be read at: https://10ellenmedia.com/ privacy-policy/ 4 | Embrace
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At Embrace, we believe that wellness is not only about physical or emotional wellbeing but a balanced harmony of mind, body, and soul as well as their interactions with other individuals. While we embrace the beauty of being, we also look up to embrace the opportunities of becoming. Our readers are women who are young, not only by their age but also within their heart and mind. Embrace offers engaging activities, inspiring ideas, entertaining stories, helpful informational tips, and everything that one needs to live and enjoy a well- balanced life.
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NEXT ISSUE Nov 2021
© Embrace Magazine 2021
Spring brings new beginnings, new relationships, new friendships, & renewed vitality.
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see www.em brace.co
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Embrace brings a fresh perspective on holistic wellness and healthy living.
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Wo rk
Grow
Contents Connect
ct e n n Co
50 The Joy of New Relationships 52 Do Opposites really Attract?
Work 84 Freelancer - Build your Team 88 Tech Stack
Belong 94 Salad, Soup & Smoothie 100 Macrame & Mindfulness
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69 Your Christmas Saving Plan
Be l o n g
Grow
8 Letter from the Editor
Bou nce
116 Embrace Life Wheel 119 About 10 Ellen
Ca re Bounce 12 Sophrology in Practice 14 Revitalise It’s Spring
Care 24 The Power of Quiet
Learn
26 Aromatherapy- Sensing Vitality
Learn 32 Food for thought – Blueberries 36 Discover your Purpose 40 In Plain View – Art Galleries 42 Puzzles
Re
Sustain 58 A Small Hero - Tiny Homes 62 Feng Shui Wellbeing
Reflect 108 Total Recall: What your Dreams Mean 112 Exploring Flamenco
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Letter from the Editor Some of us just love the cold air that surrounds us during winter. Some love the hot summery warming rays of the golden sun. But for me it’s the in between seasons, those changing seasons: Autumn glorious in its parade of colours and Spring for all its vitality, bursting with new growth. Spring is reinvigorating. It woes us out of our wintery stasis to an enchanting harmony between vibrancy and energy. It is a time when the weather is gentle, not too hot and not too cold. It is a time when we can get out and enjoy the fresh air, be active and renew out fitness regime, strengthen our wellbeing and rekindle friendships. And we can anticipate the regeneration of nature and its splendid regrowth, buds bursting through the branches, all blossoming buds. Spring with all of its freshness and newness, life and growth. It is a time I take to enjoy our natural environment sometimes in solitude, to reflect in tranquil repose, to meditate on what my life has become, and to appreciate the strength and wisdom of being quiet. I have become aware of the Quiet Movement, and as one who came from a large extended family quiet was never on the agenda. While not an extravert nor an introvert I am now profoundly conscious and intrigued by the Power of Quiet. Being Quiet is such an enabler of knowledge and wisdom, and a skill worthy of developing.
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While, being purposefully quiet stimulates the awareness of external environment Sophrology, brings balance to our inner being. And in a world of urgency and immediacy, were everything is on demand and so, so, so connected, it is wonderful, experientially, to find that tranquillity within yourself through relaxation therapy. Finally, to slow down, take it easy, and relax into being. And so, as we embrace Spring, and anticipate the reduction of lockdowns we bring you stories and articles, that to find new friends, to enjoy new relationships, to explore whether opposites really do attract, to embrace new hobbies and pastimes. We bring you articles to discover your purpose, to revitalise this Spring. And so, I welcome you to read our fifth issue for 2021. Embrace!
Jacqueline Hodges
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Food for Thought Blueberries Mickayla Hosking
Blueberries! A favourite of most children and a powerful source of nutrition. They are a native plant to North America, but have been adopted to grow in many colder climate areas, including Australia. Blueberries are rich in flavonoids and polyphenols which give them their deep colour. The anthocyanins and polyphenols in blueberry are major functional ingredients for preventive chronic disease. It’s these properties that contribute to the blueberries anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, cardioprotective, and immune enhancing effects. Some suggest that blueberries may even be one of the most functional fruits we have access to. One of the polyphenol groups, called anthocyanins, have even been found to be protective of cancer cell mutation. A review of recent clinical evidence suggests that blueberries, when regularly consumed, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, improved weight maintenance and neuroprotection. As blueberries contain fibre as well, they are also beneficial in feeding our microbiome to create overall health. Blueberry with abundant anthocyanins can improve vision, is anticancer, antidiabetes, anti-obesity, is preventive against neurodegeneration and macular degeneration as well as osteoporosis, can reduce hyperlipidemia and hypertension, as well as heart disease through various pathways. The anthocyanins and their production with pyruvic acid can slow or even stop the proliferation of cancer cells. The darker the colour of the berry, the more anthocyanins it may have. Blueberry consumption (400 mg daily) can reduce tumor size significantly in mice, which inhibits the proliferation of ovarian cancer.
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These anthocyanins in blueberries have turned out to be super useful! They can prevent fat cells taking up as much glucose, hinting at some anti-obesity actions, and well improving conditions such as fatty liver via the same pathways. Here some supplemental form of blueberries (such as a powder) may be more useful to get a therapeutic effect. Daily consumption of blueberries may even contribute to preventing diseases like macular degeneration, dementia, heptatitis, insulin resistance progressing to type 2 diabetes, and so much more! Why not try it out yourselves? Frozen blueberries have the naturopathic tick of approval as well, so don’t feel pressured to buy fresh. One cup of blueberries is considered one serving, so get munching!
Choc-Blueberry Bark This recipe is so quick and easy! For bonus antioxidant points, grab some super dark chocolate or carob bars. 1 punnet blueberries 450g dark chocolate, chopped 85g silvered almonds, toasted and cooled to room temperature 1/3 cup hazelnuts or pistachios 1. Line a rimmed baking tray with baking paper. Draw a 20cm x 25cm rectangle on the baking paper with a pencil. Then turn the paper over (you should be able to see the outline of the rectangle) 2. Melt chocolate in a microwave oven or over a double boiler until smooth, then use a spatula to spread chocolate on the baking paper up to the edges of the drawn rectangle. Sprinkle blueberries, toasted almonds, and other nuts onto the chocolate. Use fingertips to press toppings gently down into melted chocolate. Cover loosely with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. 3. Use a sharp knife to cut bark into 9 squares. Cut each square in half diagonally and serve immediately. Store any uneaten bark in the refrigerator. If you would like to find out more about how herbs can help or nutrition haven’t exercised in a while, you should consult with your doctor, physiotherapist or a podiatrist. Mickayla is a qualified Naturopath. She has completed a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy) from Torrens University and currently runs her own naturopathy clinic. Please seek advice from your health practitioner before beginning new treatment.
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Discover your Purpose “The path to our destination is not always a straight one. We go down the wrong road, we get lost, we turn back. Maybe it doesn’t matter which road we embark on. Maybe what matters is that we embark.” – Barbara Hall It is a truly rewarding experience to know and understand your purpose. But are you one of the many who still feel there is something missing from your life even though you have a great career, a wonderful family, and a friendship circle that you can count on? Knowing your sense of purpose and having a fulfilling life can be increase your sense of wellbeing and even your lifespan. Here we share some tips to discover your purpose, so you can fill that void, and find what it is that is missing from your life.
People You Know
You are the company you keep! Who do you surround yourself with? Think about your family your friends, your colleagues, and any other relationships you have. Are they pulling you down, causing you anger, frustration, anxiety or even depression? Relationships are not always positive, and having some differences can be healthy, but overall your relationships should be uplifting.
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A Small Hero Tiny Homes
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This is the final instalment of a three part series where I look at the benefits of A Small Hero – Tiny Home, Small Home, Granny Flat or Secondary dwelling
As an Australian after years of living in the large homes and apartments in Victoria, when I moved to Hong Kong I experienced the rude awakening of living in under 60m2 and I did this for nearly ten years. It became a personal epiphany around how I lived and what was really important in my life, streamlining the essentials, living a minimalistic existence but essentially enjoying a big lifestyle. We all bring our life experiences to the table when considering our homes, investments and living arrangements which change overtime, but essential can typically remain the same (i.e. kitchen, bathroom, sleeping, lounge & outside areas). Really how much space we all need is a personal choice, but from my experience it is normally more than we really need and with good design and professional help you will be surprised at the results and benefits. Generally our residential choices centre around available finance, cultural awareness, life experiences, personal & family values or what’s important to use, available information ,choices, planning options, construction, design and technology.
In living throughout Victoria in Melbourne and regional areas, travelling extensively and in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, I lived a compact lifestyle which has made me appreciate smart minimalistic design. When talking about a tiny home, small home or granny flat I am thinking about a design from 30 - 90m2, which is plenty with all the smart technology and constructions options available today. No matter where you live in Australia reach out to your local council and planning department to confirm any local requirements for building or designing a tiny home or granny flat on your land or the property you’re considering.
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Exploring the global phenomenon of Tiny or Small Home designs and Granny Flats which can really demonstrate their value, by maximize technology, design functionality, minimal carbon footprint, sustainability and it can make a lot of financial sense, so explore and enjoy the experience. In my view Tiny Homes or Granny Flats are all about thinking green, considering affordability, practising minimalism, enjoying smart design, exploring innovative construction, dynamic styling, reduced running costs and maximizing the use of technology. So, take an opportunity to consider this small hero when exploring the options and benefits of Tiny Homes and Granny Flats for your property or potential investment. This research and information and ideas around secondary dwellings could make a real difference to the value of your existing home or influence your decision when your looking to buy to better future proof your decisions.
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Challenge your thinking around how much space you really need now & for the future. Having the options to build a tiny home or granny flat on your land can really add value to your property but also provide a wonderful living space for family. Reach out to your local council, design & planning professionals, and also experts builders of Tiny Homes and Granny Flats, taking the time to do the research will provide answers, minimize risks and provide a solution you may have never thought possible.
Living small, smart, comfortable and affordable is a great option to consider, so be your own hero and start the journey today. A Small hero – Tiny Home, Small Home, Granny Flat or Secondary dwelling
Andrew Johnson is a licensed estate agent, businessman & entrepreneur based in Brown Hill who has enjoyed a long and varied business career in Australia and overseas providing solutions and building a strong referral business.
Mobile 0473 207 988 Email andrew@maxjre.com LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/andrew-johnson-8435092 Company Maxwell Johnson Real Estate Pty Ltd Address 9 Gracefield Road, Brown Hill, VIC 3350
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Your Christmas Saving Plan Jacqueline Hodges
I
ts only 100 days until Christmas. As you know, Christmas can be one of the most financially stressful times of the year. We all put enormous expectations on ourselves, on what gifts to buy, what food to prepare, where to go, who is coming to stay, decorating the house, and what our Christmas feast will be this year. Christmas is meant to be a joyous time, for love, for catching up with family and friends, for doing something charitable. But if you’re already struggling with debt and meeting financial commitments, then you will struggle with your feelings of peace, joy and goodwill.
So, let’s deal with this. It’s time to get back on track. After all, you do want to spread the joy this year! So, put pen to paper, put a plan in place, prepare a budget, and get yourself Christmas ready. You may need to make some adjustments to current spending habits, but that’s okay. You know it is a little short-term pain for some longer term gain. You may feel overwhelmed by the idea of putting a budget together. So, in this article I will provide you with some guidance to begin your Christmas Savings journey. The best time to start your Christmas Savings is actually very early in the year. Say around February, when the festive season is well and truly over. The next best time is now! Just think of planning now as your training for next year. You will need to gather the details of your income and expenses. Remember that you may need to start spending early in December for gifts, decorations, tableware, and frozen foods. And you will certainly need to start spending the week before and up to Christmas for perishable foods. So, make allowance for that early and later spending. If you follow the next few steps you will be well on your savings journey.
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1. Make a date with yourself Set aside some time and clear a space, so that you are mentally prepared to think about your budget and Christmas savings plan. Have a notepad ready. You can use a variety of tools, such as a mind-map, post-it notes, an excel spreadsheet, an electronic notepad or specialist software. Whichever, tools you are going to use, have these ready to commence your date. Gather all the documents that will help you work out your personal budget. This might include, your sources of income, all your expenses, bank statements and credit card statements.
2. Work out your income Look at your income documents and bank statements to work out what your net income is. Write this figure at the top of your list.
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3. Work out your expenses In this section, you need to consider where your money goes. Look at your expense documents, bank statements and credit card statements to work out what your net income is. Your expenses will include amounts that are fixed, flexible and some that are quarterly or annual.
Here are some examples for Fixed, Flexible and Monthly/Quarterly/Annual expenses: •
Fixed expenses, include rent, mortgage repayments, car loans and phone/ internet plans
•
Flexible expenses: food, clothing, entertainment, medical and additional mortgage payments
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Monthly expenses: mortgage repayments, phone, electricity and private health insurance
•
Quarterly expenses: rates and water charges
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Annual expenses: insurance and car registration
•
Be honest with yourself. There is no point trying to hide an expense here!
4. Create your budget Your budget is the basis of your spending plan and allow for your savings too. It should meet your needs first and then you wants. Your income should be more than your expenses. You should have some funds left over in the budget for your savings plan.
5. Create your Christmas Savings plan Set up a new bank account, especially for your Christmas Savings. Check back to your budget at the beginning of each month. You have three checking dates: October, November, and December. On these days, you can check to see how your savings are growing and on target, and feel confident that you will have money set aside for.
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Here’s 9 Tips to Saving this Christmas 1. Limit the number of gifts
5. Homemade decorations
The last two years have been difficult for many, so put a limit the number gifts you buy. You will find your family and friends if not in the same boat, will certainly understand.
Christmas decorations are beautiful, but nothing beats the joy a child hanging their hand made decorations on the tree. You can make, paper chains, pipe cleaner ornaments, and painted pine cones.
2. Made by You is a treat Share your love with gifts made by you. Your family and friends will appreciate your talents and the time and effort you put in to make a handmade treasure, made just for them. 3. Give meaningful presents Buy gifts that are lasting, needed and useful. Ask your friends and family what they would like. But try to be discreet, so they will still enjoy the surprise. And try to avoid anything that has batteries.
6. Make a list Write a list of the presents you will buy, a second list for the food, a third list of other Christmas Day items. Check it regularly and cross off the items as they are bought. 7. Use your rewards You will be purchasing more than you normally would. So your store rewards will accumulate faster than usual. Use the rewards to offset some of the spending.
4. Set cost limits
8. Watch out for Scams
Knowing how much you are going to spend will make your Christmas saving plan a little easier. If everyone knows this budget, there will be no disappointments or uneven exchanges.
Australians lost over $851 million to scams in 2020 Australians lost over $851 million to scams in 2020. Be alert, check Scamwatch, and be careful when buying gifts this holiday season. 9. Money left in the kitty At the end of the festive season, you may find you haven’t spent all Christmas savings. Well done you! Those store rewards did come in handy. Keep the savings for next year.
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Give Yourself a Gift You’ve worked hard preparing your Christmas savings plan, so give yourself a treat for doing a good job. So, whether it’s buying a bunch of flowers, burning a tranquil incense, splurging of something luxurious, or just a smile in the mirror give yourself a gift. Positive reinforcement is powerful.
Improve Your Financial Literacy Not that you have taken these steps, if you are ready to grow financially, and learn more about financial matters. You can read blogs and books, listen to podcasts about personal finance and investments or speak with your financial adviser. Financial literacy is something you can learn.
Speak with Your financial Adviser Christmas is an important time of year, but it is only one part of your life. You should look at a complete personal budget and savings plan that caters to your whole lifestyle. How you fund your lifestyle choices requires planning and the earlier you start you will be able to control saving and preparing. Once you have your goals established you need to consider how much you will need to fund those goals. Ask yourself. Are your goals feasible? Do your plans make financial sense? Are they viable? Can you save enough to fund those goals? Your whole lifestyle plan may have a multi-pronged approach. You may be saving a deposit for your first home, saving for an incredible overseas holiday once the borders are open, waiting to downsize from the family home into a smaller property and use the excess equity for your retirement funds. If you haven’t got a plan yet, that’s ok. Now is the time to focus on your future, consider what options you have and set your plan in motion.
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Jacqueline Hodges is a Chartered Accountant, Registered Tax Agent and SMSF Auditor. She is a Financial Adviser and an authorised representative of Wealth Today. She has a wealth of experience having worked in the financial services sector for most of her career. Jacqueline is a firm believer in continuing education and holds a Bachelor of Commerce (UQ), a Master of Taxation (UM), and a Financial Planning Certificate. She established her own accounting firm servicing individuals and small businesses in 2005 and complemented the business in 2015 with the opening of the financial advice division.
“The best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is now.” – Unknown
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is general in nature and may not be relevant to your personal circumstance and needs. Taxation, legal and other matters referred to in this article are of a general nature only and are based on laws existing at the time and should not be relied upon in place of appropriate professional advice. We recommend that you assess whether the information is appropriate to your needs and if appropriate speak with a financial adviser to discuss your needs, financial situation and investment objectives. HQ Wealth Pty Ltd as trustee for HQ Wealth (CAR 1238791) and Jacqueline Hodges (AR 1238790) are Authorised Representatives of Wealth Today Pty Ltd (ABN 62 133 393 263), AFSL 340289.
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