One and Co

One and Co

Archives for August 2019

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Santa Barbara Hotels Giving Us Major Interior Design Inspiration Right Now

Presenting a profile that is simultaneously professional and homey, decadent but utilitarian, high-end hotels are a great place from which to draw inspiration for the interior design of your home. Here are some great examples of area hotels with different approaches to Santa Barbara interior design that are all equally inspirational.

1. The Hotel Californian

A Spanish Colonial-style building dating from 1925, the Hotel Californian recently underwent an eight-year overhaul of the interior design. The end result is a delightful departure from the previous appearance of the interiors. The furnishings hearken back to the hotel’s history during the roaring ’20s with an Art Deco design. The Moorish architectural influence is still strong in Spain, and the interior of the Hotel Californian pays homage to this shared heritage by drawing inspiration from Moroccan design.

2. The Biltmore Four Seasons Resort

The warm-neutral color palette, bare-wood ceiling beams, and arched doorways give this resort the feeling of a rustic adobe structure. This is contrasted with ornate European-style furnishings for a touch of Old World elegance.

3. Kimpton Canary Hotel

The Kimpton Canary Hotel shows that you don’t have to sacrifice relaxation for refinement. It features hardwood floors, four-poster beds, and other Old World accents with a distinctly Spanish flavor. At the same time, its light, airy rooms, soothing neutral color schemes, and brightly patterned rugs and other design elements allow it to retain an overall beachy personality, preventing it from becoming too pretentious or stuffy.

Let Your Interior Design Transport You

When you draw your interior design inspiration from a classy hotel, every day can feel like a vacation. The best interior designer for your project may be one who can draw inspiration from a hotel and adapt it so that it is appropriate for a long-term residence. The first step is to seek out an interior designer with the necessary experience and knowledge base to seamlessly integrate your vision into the realities of your lifestyle.

 

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What Every Dream Home Must Have

Have you ever visited a house that you loved so much you would give anything to have it? Most people envision themselves living in such houses when they are established and have enough money to spend on a house. In doing so, they envision certain features that their dream house will have.

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So today, I bring you a list of the most essential features that your dream house definitely needs:

Grand Kitchen

Kitchens are one of the most important parts of a home. As a result, having an up to date kitchen that is well-furnished is a must-have for your dream home. In doing so, a grand kitchen is just the thing for your home. Having the latest amenities installed in your kitchen to make it a smart one is the boldest step that you could take with your kitchen. Furthermore, adding a double island design with a dining section adds charm to your kitchen.

A Great Terrace

Every dream house needs a huge open space for leisure. This space is often made out of the terrace where you can spend your free evenings sipping from a cup of coffee. You can find numerous ideas for terrace usage once you really see an open terrace. A great terrace can also be a great area for family gatherings or some parties with friends.

In any way, one of the best bets with your terrace is to have a small greenhouse designed on it because you know as well as anyone does, the more plants and trees we can get at this time, the better and the aesthetics associated with plants makes them perfect to have on your terrace.

A Swimming Pool

The conception of a dream home is impossible without imagining a huge pool in the center of your house. However, adding a swimming pool can be tricky given the size requirements and all its cleaning and maintenance. The smartest decision that you can take while adding a pool though, is to get a Trusted Solar Pool Heating in Gold Coast. This system ensures that you have a warm pool to enjoy on those cold winter evenings without having to spend hundreds of dollars on a heating system in bills. Just spend once on solar and get free heating.

Dedicated Dressing Rooms

If you really want to make an impression, you should dress for perfection. But dressing for perfection is not easy with all the stress that surrounds you. However, if you can create a serene environment for yourself while you are dressing, there is no way that you can get your appearance wrong. In this effort, dedicated dressing rooms are the perfect solution. A dedicated dressing room can have your entire wardrobe and footwear selection neatly sorted with huge mirrors so you can check every aspect of your look before walking out to prying eyes. But do not forget to add plenty of lighting to dedicated dressing rooms so you never miss out on any detail.

 

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How to Look After Your Mental Health

Mental health is often overlooked and neglected. You may not even realise you are doing it; perhaps through long nights spent working, or through constant dismissals that ‘everyone has bad days’ and ‘it’s okay to be tired all the time when you’re working so hard.’ Does this sound familiar?

Your mind is what makes you you. Obtaining a healthy mindset shouldn’t be ignored and can lead to negative consequences down the line. It’s essential to take control of your mental health, and therefore, your own positive life.

Look After Yourself

An optimistic mindset stems from making all the right decisions in your self-care. You need to make conscious decisions to eat healthily and get enough exercise. The latter doesn’t have to mean hours spent at the gym to stay in shape – it can mean gentle exercise such as a peaceful evening walk or perhaps an hour spent doing yoga or meditation. Choose an activity which works for you and which you enjoy. After all, if you don’t enjoy your chosen activity, you won’t want to do it. Eating sluggishly and consuming junk will only leave you feeling less than your best, and this can take a toll on your mental health and motivation.

Know Your Limits

If you know that agreeing to do another overtime shift again is going to make you feel miserable, don’t do it. If you’ve made the effort to socialise an extreme amount in a short space of time and you simply don’t have the energy to do it again for a while, that’s okay too. Don’t push the boundaries of what your mental health can cope with. It’s okay to say no sometimes, and taking the time to understand better how far you can go with something before it takes a toll on your mind means you will know better when to stop.

Extinguish Negative Relationships

If any relationship in your life is making you feel low and aggrieved, whether this a romantic relationship, family relationship, or a friendship, then you shouldn’t be in it. It can be very difficult to make the steps to remove yourself from an abusive or negative relationship, but for the good of your mental health, you should do so as soon as possible. Seek the support and help of people who do care about you to make the transition easier. You should pay attention to the signs of negativity when they arise.

If you are left feeling low or depressed due to a bad relationship, don’t hesitate to seek professional help, such as igniteteentreatment.com.

 

Make Time for You

The key to good mental health is making time for the things which you love. You may feel social pressure to meet obligations and socialise with people during your free time, but it’s also crucial to spend time alone, too. This way you can explore hobbies and pastimes which make you happy, and it can help to refresh and revitalise you.

You should also make plans to go on holiday or take a trip from time to time, to recharge your batteries.

 

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How Can Therapy Address Depression Associated with Chronic Illness

Living with a chronic illness is something no one wants to deal with. Unfortunately, millions of Americans are currently living with a chronic illness. And because chronic illnesses last for a long time and cannot always be cured, this can take a toll on mental health as well.

Depression is commonly seen in those suffering from a chronic illness, and it is also often overlooked. But can therapy help those who are battling both depression and a chronic illness?

How common is depression in those with chronic illnesses?

Statistics show that around one-third of people who have a serious medical condition also show signs of depression. Symptoms of depression can include a loss of interest in enjoyable activities, changes in appetite and sleep schedules, fatigue, lack of emotion, and even suicidal thoughts.

Depression is thought to be common in people who have chronic illnesses because having a chronic illness involves a big life adjustment. A chronic illness can often result in a loss of independence, changes in relationships, and physical changes. People with chronic illnesses may feel like they can’t participate in life like the people around them can, and they may develop intense feelings of isolation and uncertainty about their future plans.

Dealing with these changes can be stressful, to say the least. And because of these changes, a certain level of stress, sadness, and even anger is to be expected. However, when a person’s depression is diagnosed as clinical — which is more serious — they often require treatment. Treatment options for depression typically include antidepressants and therapy.

How can therapy help with depression associated with chronic illness?

Treating depression in those with chronic illnesses can be difficult, but it’s certainly not impossible. Anyone suffering from depression can consider looking into resources like Therapy Group of NYC, an expert in therapy treatment.

Therapy is designed to help people take a deeper look into their feelings — in this case, feelings regarding their chronic illness and depression. Exploring these feelings can give patients a better understanding of why they feel and think the way they do, which can also help them understand how their negative thoughts impact their behaviors.

One of the biggest benefits of therapy — in regards to chronic illness — is finding coping methods. It can be extremely difficult to cope with not only the physical part of a chronic illness, but the emotional and mental parts as well. Coping methods, like journaling, art, or other activities, can be developed with the help of a therapist.

There are even different types of therapy patients can explore. Cognitive behavioral therapy can be particularly helpful for people with chronic illnesses. This kind of therapy teaches people to replace the negative behaviors and thoughts associated with their depression with positive thoughts and behaviors.

Therapy can also help by giving support as patients learn ways to vouch for themselves. Self advocating can be a challenge when you have a chronic illness, especially if the patient has to rely on others to help them with daily activities. But learning to express wants and needs can be a huge help in having a healthier mentality regarding the chronic illness, as it can result in a restored sense of independence.

Overall, therapy can help those with chronic illnesses find different, more positive ways to think about their illness. In doing so, they may find a more positive outlook on life, healthier coping mechanisms, and less stress in general. It’s important to find the right therapist, possibly one that specializes in helping people with chronic illness.

But either way, going to therapy can provide a source of hope and can help those with depression and chronic illness find their inner strength and positivity again.

To read more on topics like this, check out the lifestyle category.

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3 Top Health and Wellness Trends of 2019

The health and wellness industry has seen amazing advancements and innovations within the first half of 2019, making self-care and alternative health solutions more accessible than ever.

In fact, trends in the health and wellness sector have gained immense mainstream popularity, causing more and more retailers to incorporate these products into their inventory. With that in mind, read on to find out more about the latest health trends.

Dietary supplements

According to a new report by Grand View Research, the dietary supplement industry is projected to reach $194.63 billion by 2025. Rising health awareness among consumers of all age groups has contributed to the growing popularity of dietary supplements and vitamins.

In fact, 75 percent of adults in the United States (170 million) take dietary supplements, according to data from the 2018 CRN report. Since American diets are typically high in calories but low in nutrients, private label vitamins and supplements are needed to fill nutritional gaps.

More people are turning to one-a-day multivitamins to protect against nutritional deficiencies and create a more balanced diet. In addition, taking a daily multivitamin has been associated with weight loss, slower aging, better memory, and reduced risk of disease.

Meanwhile, others are turning to dietary supplements for a wide range of benefits, including improved cognitive function, bone strength, and cardiovascular functioning. In particular, collagen has gained popularity for its anti-aging effects and protection against neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s and Parksinson’s.

Essential oils

Essential oils are becoming an increasingly popular way to boost physical and mental health. In 2017, the global aromatherapy market earned $1.2 billion in revenue, and sales have increased in the United States by 200 percent since 2012. According to a Transparency Market Research report, the industry is expected to grow to $27.49 billion by 2022.

Whether you’re looking to jump on the bandwagon or you’re already a fan, you’ve probably heard of the health benefits associated with essential oils. Different oils are associated with different benefits: for instance, lavender can help with insomnia, while peppermint can help digestion.

For those looking to try essential oils, start with Bulgarian organic lavender essential oil. The oil is produced through extended steam distillation and a proprietary filtration process, making it exceptionally high-quality. In addition, the oil has a superior calming effect, and can help to detoxify and improve blood circulation of the hair and skin.

Plant-based alternatives

According to the Good Food Institute, grocery sales of plant-based foods directly replacing animal products have grown by 31 percent in the past two years, reaching $4.5 billion in 2019. Today, plant-based sales make up 20 percent of the food and beverage expenses of Americans, with beef alternatives accounting for 44 percent.

As a result, more and more start-ups are beginning to think beyond standard plant-based products. For example, Good Catch released plant-based tuna made from lentils, chickpeas, and fava beans. Alongside companies like Wild Type and New Wave Foods, Good Catch plans to deliver a wide range of products that reduce the environmental impact of overfishing.

In addition, brick and mortar restaurants are beginning to offer more plant-based alternatives. Many restaurants are integrating vegan options into their menus to appeal to a wider demographic and diminish the environmental pressure of producing meat.

The health and wellness industry has grown immensely within the first half of 2019, with many new trends gaining mainstream attention from retailers and influencers. Ultimately, following the latest wellness trends can help you find all-natural ways to live a healthier life and take better care of yourself.

 

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The Thrill of Tandem Skydiving in Dubai

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Dubai is like a precious jewel in the middle of the desert. This prosperous city in the UAE is one of the hottest destinations when it comes to extreme adventures like skydiving. Why? Well, aside from its amazing aerial view, Dubai offers lots of amazing packages for tourists. And like any other city, Dubai also gives several skydiving options. Here, there are many skydiving services offered. So, you can surely pick out one that will suit your budget.

If you’re planning to visit Dubai, you might as well live in here. This is because it’s such a beautiful place. There are villas for sale in Dubai and there are off plan projects in Dubai that are constantly updating as well, making it a hot spot for top Dubai real estate agencies. Not only is Dubai a great city to retire to, but its tourist attractions will surely engage you and make you so much more in love with this city.

Try Dubai’s tandem skydiving. Certainly, you’ll never forget the experience. It’s one of the most thrilling and popular adventure trends at the moment, and a lot of tourists has been waiting for their turns to experience this fall from the sky.

For those who are not convinced, below are some of the reasons why you should book a skydiving tour in Dubai right now:

  • Unforgettable Experience

Are you tired of your usual visit to the beach? Are you done scouring the internet to find where to eat out while traveling? If so, then skydiving will surely be an unforgettable experience for you. It is simply nerve-wracking, but once you’re down on the ground, you’ll love to take another dive once more.

  • Magnificent Aerial View

What makes skydiving in Dubai amazing is that this city has an amazing aerial view. As you dive, take in the view as much as you can. Watch the vastness of the desert and marvel at the scene of the magnificent buildings before you. You’ll definitely fall in love in no time.

  • Exhilarating

Lastly, all skydiving enthusiasts will always have one thing in common, and that’s their love for the thrill. If you want to have an exhilarating experience that’s out of this world, then skydiving should be included in your bucket list.

Tandem skydiving is a popular activity that you and your family can do. Book a trip to Dubai and visit the nearest skydiving agency now to have a blast.

To read more on topics like this, check out the travel category.

 

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4 Reasons Why Pasay Is a Great Place for City Staycations

When it comes to Metro Manila staycations, some of the first cities that come to mind are Quezon City, Pasig, Makati, Taguig, and Manila. These locations are jam-packed with hotels, malls, food parks, and other establishments to give you a pleasant break from the daily grind.

However, there’s another great location for city staycations, one that doesn’t get enough attention: Pasay City. Located in the central part of Metro Manila, Pasay has a lot to offer if you’re looking for an enjoyable, hassle-free holiday. Here are a few reasons why you should definitely have your next staycation in the “Travel City.”

Plenty of Hotels in All Price Ranges

One of the keys to a great staycation is a great hotel. Thankfully, there are plenty of hotels in Pasay that you can choose from. You can find 5-star hotels like Conrad Manila and Maxim’s, 3-star chains like Microtel Inn and Holiday Inn Express, as well as a wide range of budget apartments and hostels. What’s more, you’ll find that most of these accommodations are strategically located. Either they’re right smack in the middle of a CBD or very near transport routes and terminals, making it easier for you to reach them.

Variety of Activities

Unlike some locations where the most you can do is swim in the hotel pool, shop, and eat, Pasay has easy access to a variety of other activities. Do you want to go to a theme park? Star City is just a few minutes away, as is SM by the Bay, the mini theme park behind SM Mall of Asia that’s perfect for the kids. Do you want to watch a theatrical production? There’s CCP, Solaire, and Resorts World Manila. Do you want to try your luck in a casino? You can go to City of Dreams, Okada Manila, or Casino Filipino in Heritage Hotel.

There are also a lot of museums in Pasay, like the Philippine Air Force Museum and the GSIS Museum, if you’re looking for a more mentally enriching vacation. Of course, it’s also easy to get to Manila from Pasay to visit the Planetarium, the National Museum of Natural History, and more. You can also shop ‘til you drop, if you want. MOA has a great selection of boutiques and retail stores, while Newport Mall has some luxury brands. Finally, there are restaurants aplenty in Pasay City. Again, you can visit the malls and upscale hotels for a wide range of restaurant and buffet options. There’s also Seaside Dampa along Macapagal Boulevard, and individual establishments like Crisostomo, Song Do Won, and more.

Near the Airport

If you’re spending a couple of days in Metro Manila before flying to another destination, it’s a good idea to have a quick city staycation in Pasay. NAIA Terminals 2, 3, and 4 are located in the city, which means you don’t have to deal with too much traffic to make it to your flight on time. If your trip is for business, then you’ll be well-rested and ready for a barrage of meetings. If your trip is for pleasure, then you simply extended your vacation—which of course is always a good thing.

Vibrant Nightlife Scene

For those who love to party, Pasay is certainly no slouch when it comes to nightlife. There’s Centerstage KTV Bar in Seaside Boulevard, Padi’s Point in Savers Center, Salem International Complex along EDSA, and so many more. There’s also the Hard Rock Cafe in S Maison, House Manila and Bar 360 in Resorts World, C Lounge in Conrad Manila, Centerplay at City of Dreams, and Cove Manila in Okada. For those who prefer something more laidback, you can take a late-night stroll along the Baywalk or have a nightcap at Sunset Bar in Sofitel. Mind you, these are just a few of the restaurants, bars, and clubs that you can go to. There are so many other places you can visit—Google is your friend to find the best one for you.

There’s certainly more to Pasay than meets the eye. So the next time you have some days off, why not plan a staycation in this vibrant city. You’re sure to be pleasantly surprised!

To read more on topics like this, check out the travel category.

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Festivals on a Hill in Altea

Altea is a picturesque town located close to Benidorm in Spain, although it has almost the opposite atmosphere. Rather than being a hot spot for nightlife, Altea is a thoughtful and relaxing location. You’ll still find bars to visit and culinary excellence, but this town situation running down a cliff to the coast is a better place for seeing the culture Spain and the relaxing way of life.

Looking at Altea from the cost, it is easy to see why it is such a special town. The church is located on top of the large cliff; from which you’ll enjoy some breath-taking views. As the rest of the historic settlement surrounds this building, you get the sense of how the building was the centre of the community in the town’s past.

The culmination of this way of life is the frequent festivals held in the city.

The L’Abert

The L’Abert is a unique tradition to Altea. It is one of the few places you’ll find which has residents that still uphold these unique local rituals.

In accordance with their old ways, residents meet during the fiestas of San Juan. An ancient tree is carried from the base of the town up to the clifftop by the Church. It is planted here, with the assistance of some topes from the church building itself. This makes the churchyard a permanent reminder of the event you experienced. It is a magical process that you’ll want to return to watch every time.

Other festivals

While the L’Abert is something really unique, Altea takes the same interesting approach to more widely celebrated festivals too. If you manage to time your visit right, you can join in with their celebrations of the Moors and Christians, Holy Week, the Castell de l’Olla, and the night of San Juan.

While proceedings vary depending on the festival, each is a village-wide celebration. You may not get the scale of celebrations that you’ll find in a big city. However, spending these special times in Altea lets you see how an authentic Spanish village celebrates the big occasions in Spanish cultural life.

Living in Altea

Altea might offer special events at certain times of the year, but the town itself is worth visiting year-round. The medieval buildings are fantastic to walk around; the entire town can give you the type of idyllic experience that you’ll struggle to find at the more tourist-focused destinations.

If you are looking for a beautiful property for sale in Altea it will allow you to visit these festivals every year if you want to. Although most of the town is built on the hill, the amount of property for sale in Altea will give you lots of choice of whereabouts you’d want to set up shop or buy a holiday home. While the L’Abret and fiestas De Moros y Cristianos are major draws, the celebrations for the Holy Week in Altea aren’t to be missed either.

To read more on topics like this, check out the travel category.