Tarot Card Reading for Love and Relationships + Tarot Card Review

Today is #WitchyWednesday and I am reviewing a brand-new Tarot card deck, The Essential Tarot, by Chloe Zarka Grinsnir. The Tarot cards were kindly gifted by GMC Books.

It’s funny how these cards called to me energetically. I feel the need to touch the box and connect physically even if I’m not working with them. I did a Tarot card reading this morning quite unexpectedly, because I found myself picking up the cards almost like I was in a dream. That’s when I know they have a big message for me, and boy, did they! It’s just a regular Wednesday here in Cheshire, England. But it feels like something big is changing for me personally, and I welcome it.

Anyway, here is today’s Tarot card reading for Witchy Wednesday. I wrote the message as it came through to me, but you might find that some of it resonates with you. Please comment and tell me if you receive any wisdom, or even if you feel nothing and want to share. Also watch my video on Instagram to get a better look at the cards.

This is the first time I have had a Tarot card reading comprised completely of Major Arcana cards. Usually, I get one or two mixed with Minor Arcana. That means I must listen to this message. I might not follow the guidance because I am only human, and I am not perfect. But they can’t say they didn’t warn me!  

Essential Tarot Card Review by SpookyMrsGreen.com pagan lifestyle blog.
Essential Tarot Card Review

The Essential Tarot Card Reading

Today’s reading uses the Leaving the Past Behind spread, one that I chose energetically from my Tarot notebook.

1, What I need to leave behind me – The Empress

Ah, now I understand! She represents The Mother, a nurturing figure, a matriarch. Personally, I need to move on from being Mother. Yes, it is an important role, and I will always be mum to my children. But I can step back a little and allow others to share the burden. As I hit middle age, I find a sense of excitement for new adventures. No more babies for me!

2, What I need to take with me – The Emperor

Here is The Father, a man who rules with his head and not his heart. He balances the Empress, and today he is the one that I must seek to emulate. I should embrace my masculine side, use his rational influence, plan carefully, and I will achieve my goals. The same applies to you, whoever is reading this article right now. We may focus our time on business rather than family but being mindful of balance along the way.

3, Negatives to discard – The Lovers

I don’t like to see this card in this part of the reading. It forces me to face up to my current situation. Is this telling me to discard my lover? I mean, yes, we have had a hard time during the past few years, and it is well documented on my blog. We are a long way from fixed. But discard him completely? I’m not sure I can do that.

4, Positives to look forward to – The Devil

Hmm, did my cards get mixed up in the reading? The Devil represents the shadow side of The Lovers. On reflection, I understand the message. My relationship had grown obsessive and toxic, from my behaviour as well as his. I was able to release the destructive behaviours and forces, but it took time and a lot of effort. As I move forward now, I can see the light and the dark in my relationship, and I know how to respond.

5, Why a fresh start will be good for me – The Star

I am a different person these days. I visited my shadow side, I pulled out the dark stuff, and I worked hard to heal and release what I was holding on to. The Star tells me that She will light my way. Our hardships will ease. My projects and relationships will flow abundantly. I can move forward with joy.

Summary

Wow. I was not expecting such a powerful reading. This is my first reading with The Essential Tarot, and it packed a punch! The message confused me at first but now it makes sense. Life has been hard. It has also been easy. We live in a state of flux, often accepting outside influences. The Tarot sees me. And I decide on my life.

Are you ready to work on yourself, and make improvements in those areas where you feel lack?

Image of The Essential Tarot card deck. Product Review of The Essential Tarot by professional Tarot reader Catherine Green of SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#ProductReview The Essential Tarot by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Browse the latest exclusive special offers and discount codes from my affiliate partners. Click here.

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

Posted in #freeforallFriday, #witchywednesday, advertising, Business, mind body spirit, pagan mother, spirit sisters, Spiritual, spiritual growth, spiritual guidance, tarot reading, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

#BookReview: Dìonadair: Tango Down Duology Part 1 – A Scottish second chance romance by Louise Murchie

It’s a long time since I read a book that stayed with me like this one. I got so hooked that I had to read it in one day, wandering around the house with my kindle in my hands, trying to multitask. That is the sign of a good book for me!

#BookReview Dionadair (The Tango Down Duet) by Louise Murchie featured at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#BookReview Dionadair (The Tango Down Duet) by Louise Murchie

My Review

The bit I enjoyed most was the three-way relationship that developed between Blythe and her men (brothers, by the way). Maybe it speaks to my inner thoughts, but I found it fascinating and interesting to read. Throw in the military references, modern technology, suspense, and mystery, and you have an intense book to read.

I haven’t read anything like this before and now I’m desperate for the sequel. Mature characters, tech galore, suspense and action. And let’s not forget the 3-way sex and lots of it! I like that the story is set in Edinburgh, it makes a nice change from the heavy London focus for this type of novel. I loved it!

#BookTalk Trodaiche (The Tango Down Duet) by Louise Murchie featured at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#BookTalk Trodaiche (The Tango Down Duet) by Louise Murchie

About the Book

In a web of mysteries, she must protect the men she loves. Can she unravel the threads and hold danger at bay?

Marcus McGowan: one night is all we had – one night filled with fire and passion that I never thought would be repeated. Years later, luck has our paths crossing once again. My brother and I are her new employers, and it doesn’t take long for business and pleasure to mix when she discovers we’re being threatened. We use the company’s skill to track down our assailants, but it’s Blythe that draws their attention so my brother can do what he does best; extract me from the situation. Blythe is our Dìonadair, our Defender, but she has become so much more than that. She has become the woman that we both love, our everything.

Blythe Grievson: Whoever is threatening my men and our company: is a fool. They didn’t factor in my tenacity, my need for answers, or my skills into their equation. These men have captured my heart, given me a Nirvana that I never thought existed. When I promise to defend them, a pact is made that I cannot let anyone break.

Dìonadair is a second chance romance set in Edinburgh, Scotland. It tells of mature characters ménages a trios/polyamorous, suspense love story with two ex-military personnel and is the first part of the #tangodownduet.

This does contain mature content and is suitable for 18+

You can find Louise Murchie on social media and you can buy the book here.

#BookTalk Trodaiche (The Tango Down Duet) by Louise Murchie featured at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#BookTalk Trodaiche (The Tango Down Duet) by Louise Murchie

Did you enjoy this article? Browse the latest exclusive special offers and discount codes from more of my affiliate partners. Click here.

Note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning that if you buy books using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen and small, independent publishers!

Posted in advertising, book, book promotion, book review | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

#BookTalk “Bulletproof Retirement: Live your Dreams, Avoid Excess Fees and Secure your Legacy”

“Bulletproof Retirement:” New book shares how not to be a casualty of the biggest financial scandal nobody is talking about.

#BookTalk Bulletproof Retirement by Martin Wilcocks featured at SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
#BookTalk Bulletproof Retirement by Martin Wilcocks

“Bulletproof Retirement: Live your Dreams, Avoid Excess Fees and Secure your Legacy” by Martin Wilcocks

A veteran of 30 years in the financial services market, Martin Wilcocks is one of the UK’s leading financial and investment advisers. In his book, Bulletproof Retirement, he explains how to keep your share of the £64 billion that is haemorrhaging from pensions and investments at the hands of those that administer our nest eggs.

Bulletproof Retirement: Live your Dreams, Avoid Excess Fees and Secure your Legacy is destined for a place on the non-fiction best seller list. In this significant and life-changing read financial guru Martin Wilcocks explains how we can retain our hard-earned nest eggs, in their entirety, by taking control of our finances ourselves (and therefore negating the need to collectively give away billions to those that administer our pension and investment portfolios on our behalf).

Concise and written in a manner to ensure the least financial amongst us can benefit from his sage advice, Bulletproof Retirement will undoubtedly rattle the cages of many involved in the industry. But, more importantly, the author should be congratulated for putting his head above the parapet and shining the spotlight on what he describes as ‘the biggest scandal that nobody is talking about.’

Synopsis:

From endowment mis-selling and the global financial crisis to pension transfer and PPI scandals: UK financial services exploit customers rather than serve them. Our pensions and investments are also under attack – high-cost financial advisers, glossy financial networks and ineffective expensive investment managers are taking £64 billion out of our pensions and investments every year.

Make a stand against these archaic practices and save yourself and your retirement from the biggest scandal that nobody is talking about. Read Bulletproof Retirement to understand how to:

•           Identify what your future ideal lifestyle looks like and plan ahead to achieve it

•           Become financially organised and set clear goals for investing, with a portfolio linked to these goals

•           Enhance the monetary value of your plan and portfolio by maximising your pension, ISA and CGT allowances

•           Reduce exposure by establishing a backstop that strips out risks within your personal and business life

•           Protect your hard-earned wealth and pass it on to children and other beneficiaries safely and tax-efficiently

•           Remain focussed on your plan, keep your goals on track and avoid making emotional decisions about your wealth.

Published by Rethink, Bulletproof Retirement: Live your Dreams, Avoid Excess Fees and Secure your Legacy. Buy the book here.

About the author

Martin Wilcocks is a financial services veteran of some 30 years’ standing who has featured in The Times, The Telegraph and The Mail on Sunday as one of the UK’s top financial and investment advisers. Wilcocks & Wilcocks currently manage over £124m of assets and investments for their clients.

Did you enjoy this article? Browse the latest exclusive special offers and discount codes from more of my affiliate partners. Click here.

Note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning that if you buy books using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen and small, independent publishers!

Posted in advertising, book, book promotion | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Tips For Making Learning Fun

Some kids love to learn; they have a natural thirst for knowledge and can’t wait to crack the spine on a new book. For others, learning doesn’t spark the same joy. Just like most things in life, if you make something fun, you are going to enjoy doing it more. 

Learning is part of a lifelong process, and while there are times it will be harder than others, for the most part, it is possible to make education fun. 

Photo by Sigmund on Unsplash

Hands-on

Getting hands-on with your learning can change the way we think about what we are learning. Getting to create, make, touch, and use can bring a new level to the activity. 

It is one thing to do maths in a book, but another to count using gummy beards, beads, stones, or apples! 

This type of gamification can be seen in many different subjects. In some cases, it means that children can use voice recognition, apps, and other fun stuff that offer an ideal solution for educators.

Child-led

If you let your child lead the way when it comes to what they learn about outside of the classroom, you might uncover a huge range of interests. One of the best things about child-led learning is that it can span so many different types of learning. 

Heading to museums, art galleries, shops, reading, creating, and watching movies. Learning doesn’t have to be just one thing – you can let your child explore all of the available options. 

Downtime 

Our brains love to learn, but they also love relaxing time too. If you choose something like art or listening to music peacefully to fill up your spare time, it enables the brain to make some connections and lock in what your child has been learning. 

Not only that, but there is so much that these creative hobbies can bring in terms of knowledge. 

Something as simple as finger painting offers the opportunity to practice colours, coordination, motor skills, communication, and let their imaginations go wild too. 

You

Children learn a lot by watching and mimicking what their parents and older siblings do. If you want education to be one of the most fun things you can do, you need to lay that foundation and keep building on it. 

Take part in learning opportunities, spend time creating, and make a list of things you want to know or places you want to go. 

As you learn, you can have a lot of fun too: The Benefits Of A Hobby And How To Get Started | SpookyMrsGreen

Clubs

Once your child has expressed some specific interests to further encourage their exploration of the topic, look for groups of clubs in the area that are within the right age group. 

Getting together with a group of like-minded children can quickly realize that having specific interests and groups to hang out with and talk about it with is just one of the coolest things. 

One of the most important things that make learning enjoyable is that it isn’t a pressure-filled environment – instead, take it easy and let your child go at their own pace. 

Text reads, "Free e-book download. LGBT werewolf fantasy story. Download Now." Image of a sexy man showing a tattoo on his chest staring at the viewer with a sultry gaze. Vampire and werewolf fantasy books for adults. 3D book cover image for "It's Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green.
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here

Note: This is a collaborative article.

Posted in #freeforallFriday, #mummymonday, advertising, Business, Children, family, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Mother’s Day with Vegan Outfitters

Mother’s Day is right around the corner and Vegan Outfitters is running a campaign for all mothers, human, animal and of course don’t forget Mother Earth.

“It’s Mother’s Day on Sunday 27th March (that’s next weekend btw) and we’re representing our mothers and the planet.”

Image of a man wearing a Tarot Earth t-shirt from Vegan Outfitters and a woman wearing a black vegan hoodie. Text reads, “Clothing for the plant-based generation affiliated with SpookyMrsGreen.com. Exclusive Discount: Get five per cent off when you spend fifty pounds at Vegan Outfitters. Use code: SPOOKY5.” Vegan Outfitters affiliated with SpookyMrsGreen.com mindful parenting and modern pagan lifestyle blog.
Exclusive Discount: Get 5% off when you spend £50 at Vegan Outfitters – Use code: “SPOOKY5.” Affiliated with SpookyMrsGreen.com.

Mother’s Day with Vegan Outfitters

Here are some of our bestsellers to help you choose the perfect vegan gift for mum.

Respect Your Mother Corner T-Shirt.

Earth Witch T-Shirt.

Save The Chubby Unicorns – Click here.

Be Kind to Every Kind Sweatshirt – Click here.

Exclusive Discount: 5% off when you spend £50

Use code: SPOOKY5 – Click here.

Special Offer Discount Codes from SpookyMrsGreen.com pagan lifestyle blog.
Special Offer Discount Codes with trusted affiliate partners at SpookyMrsGreen.com.

Did you enjoy this article? Browse the latest exclusive special offers and discount codes from more of my affiliate partners. Click here.

Note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

Posted in #freeforallFriday, #mummymonday, advertising, Business, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Mother’s Day Gifts + Special Edition Books

Mother’s Day is almost here! If you want to give your mum or mother figure a nice gift, we’ve got a special selection of products to choose from. If you want to celebrate the diversity of women’s fiction writing in English, don’t forget to check out The Women’s Prize for Fiction 2022 Longlist on our website and pick out the ones that sound best to you!

We’ve got the best books at the best prices, including Signed & Special Editions that you won’t want to miss.

Waterstones Books for Mother's Day affiliated with SpookyMrsGreen.com pagan lifestyle blog.
Waterstones Books for Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day Gifts + Special Edition Books

Still looking for the perfect gift to give your mum on Mother’s Day? We’ve got you! Check out our hand-picked selection of books to celebrate the date. We’ve got everything from heart-warming romances to fascinating non-fiction books. Click here to choose your gift.

Women’s Prize for Fiction

The Women’s Prize for Fiction 2022 Longlist recently came out. If you want to read any of these books ahead of the shortlist publication on Wednesday 27 April and the announcement of the winner on Wednesday 15 June, you can find them on our website for the best prices.

Special & Signed Editions

A special edition is always a great addition to your bookcase, and we’ve got the best signed and special editions to offer you, including a special Waterstones edition of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s Daisy Jones and The Six and an Exclusive Hardback Edition of Dolly Parton and James Patterson’s new book Run, Rose, Run on sale for half price.

Text reads, "Free e-book download. LGBT werewolf fantasy story. Download Now." Image of a sexy man showing a tattoo on his chest staring at the viewer with a sultry gaze. Vampire and werewolf fantasy books for adults. 3D book cover image for "It's Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green.
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here

Note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

Posted in #freeforallFriday, #mummymonday, advertising, book, book promotion, book sale, Business, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Tips To Enhance Your Mental Health Through Positive Relationships

Relationships can impact us both positively and negatively. Focusing on relationships that enrich and uplift you can make a huge difference to your mental health and wellbeing.

In this guide, we’ll discuss how to boost mental health through strong, supportive relationships. 

Prioritize communication

Communication is an essential component of any healthy relationship. From relationships with partners and friends to the ties you have with colleagues at work, it’s important to understand the benefits of talking and listening. Speak up if you have things on your mind, take the time to listen to other people if they want to talk to you and try to be as open as possible. It’s always best to air grievances and discuss concerns or worries, rather than bottling up emotions and letting them fester. Talking can also be reassuring. It’s crucial to know that the people who love and cherish you will be there to help and support you. Speaking out can help you figure out who is there for you. 

Look for like-minded souls

There are some people we come across in our lives who we seem to be magnetically drawn to or pulled towards. Whether you’re looking to date or find a partner, or you’re developing friendships and exploring new social opportunities, look for like-minded souls with whom you have a connection. You may not feel like you’ve known everyone you meet for the first time forever or form instant connections with lots of people but hold onto those who give you this feeling. Many of us are aware of soulmates, but some people also stumble across twin flames and people who make an instant difference to their lives. If you have a strong connection with another person, explore it further. 

Focus on the people who make you feel good

Relationships have highs and lows and some are much healthier and more nourishing than others. As we get older, we often realize that quality is more important than quantity. Don’t worry if your social circle shrinks. Focus on the people who make you feel good and reduce the amount of time you spend or cut ties with those who put you down or make you feel worthless. Look for people who allow and encourage you to be yourself. Compromise is part of building relationships, but you shouldn’t have to change the way you behave or put on a façade around others. If you feel that you hold back around certain people, or you can’t truly be yourself around friends or people you’re dating, this is a sign that the relationship isn’t right. You deserve to be surrounded by people who love you for you. 

Positive relationships can make you feel strong, safe, confident and happy. Whether you’re in a relationship with a partner, you’re questioning your friendships, or you’re looking for ‘the one,’ focus on enhancing and enriching your mental health by establishing and nourishing relationships that make both people feel good. Prioritize communication, be open and honest and take time to listen. Look for like-minded souls and spend time with people who lift you up and support you.

Image of a woman standing between two men who are partly in shadow. All are dressed in black clothes and look mysterious. 3D book cover image for "Love Hurts (A Redcliffe Novel)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green including phone and iPad download images for tablet, iPhone, and android book readers.
LGBT fantasy book series set in Cornwall. “Love Hurts (The Redcliffe Novels)” #1 by Catherine Green.

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here

Note: This is a collaborative article

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, Business, health, holistic health, relationships, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

#BookReview: “This is What You’ll Get” by Bobbie Collings

“Let’s face it, even when it’s an accident, someone must take the blame.” – from This is What You’ll Get by Bobbie Collings.

I received a copy of this book to review. Read my review and see if it entertained me.

Book Review for This is What You'll Get by SpookyMrsGreen.com pagan lifestyle blog.
Book Review for This is What You’ll Get

#BookReview: This is What You’ll Get by Bobbie Collings

I really enjoyed this book! It appears to be a cheerful romance novel, something not too heavy that will take you away from the stresses of daily life for a while. Featuring older characters (30-something), some with children, some without, and the protagonists being wealthy and carefree, there are elements of this story that I can relate to and some that I aspire to. I did identify with a few of the characters, although some of the younger ones did come across perhaps more self-aware than I think young people generally are. However, I speak from the experience of a woman who grew up before social media became the norm, so maybe I’m out of touch myself.

This book is definitely one for 21st century attitudes but featuring older characters that I could relate to. It is a hefty tome at 533 pages, and it could benefit from another proofread and editing session to tighten it up and correct some grammatical errors, but I don’t think that detracts from the overall story. I was a little irritated that the female characters were described as “girls” throughout the novel, even though for the most part they were mature women. That might just be my attitude, however, or maybe it was intentional by the author, I don’t know.

There is a lot of sex in this book

There is a lot of sex in this book so be warned if that is not your thing. I enjoyed it, but there were a few scenes that left me feeling squeamish. I suppose it depends on what your kink is. The characters did seem overly mature and understanding with each other and I would have expected more animosity or conflict in some of the scenarios. That said, I also find it refreshing to read a book where people are not immediately judging each other for their lifestyle choices, and it is made clear throughout the story that all characters are consenting adults. There are no nasty games here, only adult fun.

The ending is not what I expected and does provide an interesting twist that will leave you pondering about social norms, morals and our attitudes towards love and relationships. I am open-minded myself and do not conform to traditional marriage norms, so I enjoyed reading this book for that reason. It is nice to know that there are people who can integrate a healthy sex life into their world without it being taboo or hidden. We all do it, we just don’t like to talk about it! Well, in this book, they do talk about it a lot and while it was a bit much sometimes, generally I enjoyed the subject and the way it was described.

Find Bobbie Collings on Instagram and order the book here: This is What You’ll Get.

Text reads, "Free e-book download. LGBT werewolf fantasy story. Download Now." Image of a sexy man showing a tattoo on his chest staring at the viewer with a sultry gaze. Vampire and werewolf fantasy books for adults. 3D book cover image for "It's Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green.
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here

Note: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, book, book promotion, book review, Business, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Benefits Of A Hobby And How To Get Started

It brings us delight and enriches our lives to be able to pursue a passion that we are interested in. It gives us something entertaining to do in our leisure time while also giving us the opportunity to develop new skills and competencies. With so many options available to us now, we should consider ourselves fortunate. Even entire websites have been created in the name of a particular hobby or interest.

When it comes to discovering a new hobby, the most effective strategy is to experiment. Many amazing and exciting activities from throughout the world are available for us to research and embrace. The first and most obvious reason is that we are all individuals with a variety of interests and activities. After discovering a hobby that we enjoy and are passionate about, we become addicted to it. In a very personal way, it becomes part of our daily lives and mesmerises us.

There are several reasons why everyone should engage in at least one recreational activity, but the following are the most significant ones to consider:

Added Interest And more To Talk About

As a result of this, you become more captivating. The ability to share experiences and tales with others is available to those who have a common interest. They also have specific knowledge that they may offer to anyone who has a similar interest in the same topics as they do.

Do you ever find yourself struggling to hold a conversation or come up with new topics to speak about? A hobby can help with this. When you see the same people day in day out or don’t fill your time with various activities it can sometimes be hard to find something to chat about. When you have a hobby you have a conversation starter for both you and the people you are talking to. Whether you are talking about your real live steam train set, the fact you ran your quickest mile, or about a book you’ve started reading, it all sparks a conversation. You may even find new hobbies you want to try as you hear other stories from your friends, work colleagues, and family. 

Has A Calming Effect

The fact that you’re occupied with an activity that you enjoy helps to alleviate stress levels. Diverting your focus away from the stresses of everyday life is possible through hobbies. They give you the opportunity to decompress and enjoy activities that are not tied to work, housework, or other obligations, such as travelling.

Makes You A More Patient Person

Participating in hobbies may help you become more tolerant of others. If you want to start a new activity, you must first learn how to do a new task.  Most likely, you will have a learning experience, and in order to develop your abilities, you will need to be patient and persistent.

Increase The Quality Of Your Social Interactions

It is possible to improve your social life by engaging in a hobby that allows you to create ties with other individuals. A hobby is something that you can do with other people on a regular basis, usually with their permission. An activity that you enjoy is a wonderful opportunity to meet new people and become closer to those who share your interests, whether you join a group, participate in a league, or try something new and require the purchase of equipment such as breast forms or sewing kits.

Self-Confidence Is Boosted

Self-esteem and confidence are boosted as a result. Having fun with something increases your chances of being successful at it. You can build confidence and pride in your accomplishments by participating in any activity in which you do well.

Boredom Is Alleviated

With the help of hobbies, you can decrease or eliminate boredom. In the event that you have nothing better to do with your time, they provide an activity. You will also have an activity that you can look forward to and be enthusiastic about.

Enhances The Development Of New Capabilities

New powers are developed as a result of this. If you have an interest in which you dedicate a large amount of time, it will allow you to discover and develop new abilities. As you dedicate more time to your recreational activity, you will improve at it.

What Steps Do You Need to Take to Begin?

Taking time out of our hectic daily routines to engage in things that are meaningful to us is critical to living a happy life. Hobbies are activities that allow us to pursue topics that interest us and to have a creative outlet that is separate from our professional lives and responsibilities.

Being involved in a recreational activity can be quite good to our mental health. Hobbies have been demonstrated to lower stress levels, improve physical health, promote more sleep, increase social connections, improve work performance, and increase enjoyment in people who participate. Perhaps you’ve decided that you’d want to take up a new pastime, but you’re not sure what you should do with your time and resources. This set of three-pointers should assist you in your initial endeavours.

Locate A Topic That You Are Truly Interested In

Take a few minutes to think about what you’re truly passionate about. This might be anything from creating art to attempting a new sort of exercise to playing an instrument to baking to writing to learning a new language or skill, as well as anything else in between. Describe the topic that most piques your curiosity. Perhaps it’s going back to something you enjoyed as a child or chasing a dream that you’ve had for a long time.

We can enrol in classes or lessons to assist us in getting started with our hobbies and interests. Alternately, we might view ordinary activities such as cooking, training dogs, decorating the house, reading, and organising as viable hobbies. Considering how easily they may be incorporated into our daily lives, these concepts are low-cost and simple to implement.

Reconsider Your Time Scheduling Methods

Most individuals don’t pursue hobbies because they believe they don’t have enough time for them, which is a valid point of contention. We may be really busy at work, but we are almost certain to be able to find a few free hours each week to include our hobbies into the schedule. Keep in mind what you already do in your spare time to avoid duplicating activities. You might be amazed at how much of it you could spend doing something else instead of staring at a screen. We’re considerably more likely to persist with our hobbies if we can schedule time for them on a regular basis.

Prioritize The Pursuit Of A Goal Over The Pursuit Of Efficiency

Final point: it’s critical that we distinguish between our personal interests and our obligation to be productive in our jobs. It is difficult to shut off when it comes to our work, money, or deadlines because we live in an achievement-oriented culture. Consider habits in a separate way from anything that requires you to work hard. It is important that our habits are low-pressure, soothing outlets for our downtime, and most importantly, that they bring us genuine satisfaction.

An enjoyable hobby can be extremely useful to our overall mental health and well-being. It’s wonderful to have a healthy outlet through which we can express ourselves and challenge ourselves. Getting started is always the most difficult stage, but maybe these suggestions will assist you in taking that first step in the right direction.

Text reads, "Free e-book download. LGBT werewolf fantasy story. Download Now." Image of a sexy man showing a tattoo on his chest staring at the viewer with a sultry gaze. Vampire and werewolf fantasy books for adults. 3D book cover image for "It's Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)" from the vampire and werewolf fantasy book series by LGBT fantasy book writer Catherine Green.
LGBT werewolf fantasy story “It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels)” by Catherine Green

Did you enjoy this article? Download your FREE copy of LGBT fantasy short story It’s Complicated (The Redcliffe Novels) and meet the werewolves of Cornwall, England.  Click here

Note: This is a collaborative article.

Posted in #freeforallFriday, advertising, Business, pagan mother, working mom, working mother, working mum | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

#ToyReview: Playmobil City Recycling Truck

My children love to play with toys that help them create new worlds and stories. We were excited to receive a new toy from Playmobil, and their dad especially likes this one because it is a recycling truck, and he is a Chartered Waste Manager by trade!

Read my article to see our review of the Playmobil City Recycling Truck.

Playmobil Toy Review by SpookyMrsGreen.com pagan lifestyle blog
Playmobil Toy Review

My Review of the Playmobil City Recycling Truck

The Playmobil City Recycling Truck came with two Playmobil figures, and my daughters loved these because they like to collect these figures and build worlds with them during playtime. The truck has flashing lights and working parts, so you can attach the wheelie bins and the large waste container to the back of the truck, lift it up and empty the rubbish into the truck for removal. We thought that the little bits of “trash” were cute, and our cat had lots of fun stealing the smaller pieces to play with.

I like that these playsets encourage fine motor skills and coordination, because my daughters had to assemble the truck before they could play with it. They also had to follow an instruction manual to work out where to put all the stickers. Admittedly they did leave a few for their dad to help with, but he wanted to play with the bin lorry anyway! Once assembled, the Playmobil City Recycling Truck looks cheerful, colourful, and practical. My daughters quickly incorporated it into their game, and they took turns to empty the bins using the mechanism on the back of the truck.

Another feature that we like is that you can lift off the roof from the cab of the truck and sit the Playmobil figures inside. Then you can put the roof back on and take the truck on its rounds to empty the bins. Never underestimate how much fun a bin lorry can be for children. If it has flashing lights and moving parts, and if it includes figures and stickers, you are onto a winner. We love all the Playmobil toys, and the City Recycling Truck has now been added to our collection.

Did you enjoy this article? Browse the latest exclusive special offers and discount codes from more of my affiliate partners. Click here.

Note: This article contains affiliate links, meaning that if you shop using the links I share, I receive a small income at no extra cost to yourself. Thank you for supporting SpookyMrsGreen!

Posted in advertising, Children, pagan mother | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment