Tag: peace

Categories
Life

Top Tips for Relaxation

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In a fast-paced world filled with constant demands, finding time to relax and recharge has become more essential than ever. The good news is that creating moments of relaxation doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. With a few simple tweaks to your daily routine, you can enjoy blissful relaxation and enhance your overall well-being. Here are some top tips to help you unwind and find inner peace

Practice Mindfulness

Take a few minutes each day to disconnect from the chaos and focus on the present moment. Mindfulness exercises, such as deep breathing, can help calm your mind and relieve stress. Being outside in the sun or the breeze can also help with this, in having a thought moment where you let your mind wander and let go of some of the stressful thoughts you have been focussing on.

Create a Soothing Space

Designate a serene area in your home where you can retreat and unwind. Fill it with calming elements, such as soft lighting, comfortable seating, and scented candles, to create a tranquil ambiance.

Disconnect from Technology

Set boundaries with electronic devices to reduce stress and mental clutter. Establish “tech-free” periods, especially before bed, to promote better sleep quality and allow your mind to unwind.

Engage in Relaxation Techniques

Explore various relaxation techniques like deep breathing, prayer, or a bubble bath. Find what resonates with you and incorporate it into your daily routine.

Prioritize Self-Care

Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. Whether it’s reading a good book, or simply going for a walk in nature, ensure you schedule time to take care of yourself. This doesn’t mean focussing only on yourself throughout the day, but remembering to give yourself a break if you’re stressed, and being okay with shutting out the world if even for five minutes.

Nourish Your Body

Pay attention to your diet and prioritize nourishing foods. Incorporate more fruits, veggies, and whole grains into your meals to fuel your body and promote relaxation.

Find a Hobby

Engage in activities that bring you joy and help you unwind. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or playing an instrument, having a hobby can be a wonderful outlet for relaxation and stress relief.

Implementing these tips (and the many more you can find) for relaxation into your daily life can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. Remember, relaxation is not a luxury but a necessity for a healthy and balanced life. Prioritize moments of tranquility, and watch as your stress levels decrease and your inner peace flourishes. Take a deep breath, exhale slowly, and embrace the blissful journey to a more relaxed you.

See You in the Adventures
Christy Grace

Categories
Life

Top 10 Lockdown Sanity Tips

More lockdowns across Australia in recent months means more people losing their minds. So what are some ‘survival’ lockdown tips for your sanity? 

Here are the one’s that I’ve collected and found particularly helpful:

  • Do plenty of resting, and enjoy this ‘forced time off’ with things you didn’t have time for.
    Reading that book you keep putting off, or maybe moving forward with that craft project you’ve had sitting in the corner for the past six years… I love a good siesta, so having a nap or a relaxing afternoon with no work, is a good thing!
  • Dress up each day …most days).
    Getting dressed in ‘work clothes’ instead of PJ’s or sweats can be helpful to put you in a motivated type of mood. Even though I don’t put as much effort into it as when I’m physically leaving the house for work (and let’s face it, most days not wearing makeup), I still put something semi respectable on.
  • Start a new project, or home hobby.
    If you’re creative, you’ll know EXACTLY what project or hobby you’ve always wanted to get started. If you’re not automatically creatively inclined, you can still get something going!
    Maybe you’ve always wanted to learn to bake, paint, garden a pot plant, or start those diamond pictures. Whatever it is, there are loads of options that you can choose from!
  • Don’t obsess over the news.
    Sometimes we can find out focus in the wrong places. Yes, it’s good to keep up to date with what’s going on in the world, BUT obsessing over daily numbers, tragedy’s, or general negativity that you can find there, is not healthy. Try to catch up weekly, or just skim the headlines on your phone instead.
  • Binge watch your fav show, or a a new one.
    There are a lot of streaming services out there, and there’s also this neat invention called a ‘DVD’ (and yes, I still love those. Don’t believe me? Check out my video where I talk about why I love them so much HERE). So, if you suddenly find yourself with a lot more time than normal, it’s the perfect time to get your favourite show in – or start that one that’s been on your watchlist for far too long.
  • Take a relaxing bath.
    Even if you aren’t doing all the bubbles, fizzers, or various other “girly” type products, a bath is a way to break the routine of slouching around in your PJ’s. Maybe you’re doing it with the face masks and candles, or maybe you’re just relaxing in the hot water. Either way, a bath can be super relaxing.
  • Try writing a story.
    Even if you aren’t an author or blog writer, sometimes getting a pen and paper (or laptop, typewriter, whatever you like really) and coming up with a story can be really stimulating. You can get out frustrations with your situation, you can fantasise over how you wish things were, or you could just imagine a world far, far away that is NOTHING like our current one.
    Get those creative juices flowing!
  • Stay connected to friends and family with technology.
    There are a lot of ways to stay in touch with the people you love. If you aren’t able to see them in person right now, you can always call, text, or facetime with the people you care about. Catch up with them, share what you’ve done during lockdown, or have a junk food or movie party together!
  • Go outside, instead of online.
    Computers and the internet are great, but going outside, can be really good for you (unless it’s bucketing down with rain). It can break the monotony of being inside, and can bring those endorphins if you’re exercising.
  • Listen to a podcast or audiobook.
    Sometimes a screen isn’t the answer. It’s easy to sit down and watch hours and hours of TV, but a podcast or audiobook can be a great way to pass the time. Listen to a story, or something interesting in a podcast.

Whatever you find works, STICK WITH IT. Maybe it’s some of the lockdown tips on my list, or maybe it’s something else. Whatever keeps you sane, we’re all just doing the best we can, in a really unusual time.

If you want to read my book, head to the link >>>here for the KIDNAPPED Entanglement eBook, OR get the paperback direct from me for the cheapest price!

If you have any other lockdown tips and tricks, share them in the comments below and let’s support each other.

See You in the Adventures!
Christy Grace

Categories
Life

Christmas In October… No, Seriously

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Merry Christmas!

I know, I know… It’s October. BUT in our house, it’s the start of the Christmas decorating season… It sounds silly when you say that out loud, but I have a reason!

Yes, my family actually starts putting up Christmas decos in October. I think a little Christmas cheer a bit early is a good thing. It’s all about Joy, Hope, Peace, and a bunch of other amazing things. Who wouldn’t want that a few months early? Especially this year!

Christmas Tree GIF by Friends - Find & Share on GIPHY

“That’s still crazy!” I hear you saying, but wait for the reasons. Granted, our reasons are a little sad, but I prefer to think of them as special. Every family has their traditions after all, and this one is ours. Of course, when you tell people about it they give you a look like you’ve either just told them that the sky is actually a soft pink colour, or that their nose is actually on their back…

Over ten years ago my Mother was diagnosed with cancer, and she was worried that it would be her final year to spend with us. So, in October she put up the decorations, and is still here 10+ years later. BUT, the decorations in October stuck! It’s a reminder of making it through a tough time, and being here with family and loved ones!
It comes from a sad place, but it’s turned into a joyous tradition (all while giving everyone we know a good laugh!)

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What are some Christmas traditions that YOU wish could last all year, or come a little early?
Is it the Christmas tunes, dinners, or decorations (like us)?
Share them in the comments below! I’d love to know. 

See You in the Adventures!
Christy Grace

Categories
Life

Everybody PANIC… Oh wait….

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These are Ridiculous times; silly times; confusing times; times where we’re all at a loss of sanity, health and toilet paper….

Thanks to a new virus – COVID-19 – Panic seems to be the go to reaction for most people (especially when it comes to groceries) BUT why is it happening?

Why is it, that the go to is panic? No, we aren’t in control of this right now, so maybe people are wanting to have control over SOMETHING in their lives.

People are walking around with masks over their face, gloves on their hands, trolleys full of toilet paper and pasta, and avoiding everyone else like they have a plague that the likelihood is, they don’t.

FEAR is ruling the day right now, but why? Why are we scared/panicked/concerned about something that MOST PEOPLE who contract it, DON’T DIE! We’re freaking out right now, and I don’t see the value in it!

Keeping calm, keeping hygienic, and keeping a mind for those who are struggling (with normal health issues, with mental health issues, with money – before staff have been sent home, or in the arts/events industries cancelled shows).

This is the time, more than any other, where we need to remember what’s really important, and remember to keep peace in our homes, our hearts and in our countries.

MUCH Blessings for a SAFE, Financially Secure, and PEACEFUL few weeks/months for you all!

See You in the Adventures!
Christy Grace

Categories
Life

Wishing With the Gene of The Lamp

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“If I had a wish, I’d wish for more wishes!”

It seems to be a common answer when you ask somebody what they would wish for. Even three, I think, is too many. When you really think about it, what are the common answers?
-Money
-World Peace
-Fancy things
-Dreams fulfilled

My recent thoughts about wishes were sparked when I see the ‘Aladdin’ lamp sitting next to my desk! Yes – I am the kind of person who bought a lamp JUST like in Disney’s Aladdin (and before you get on one side or the other of the original cartoon vs the new live action – you couldn’t BUY an Aladdin lamp before the live action – so there… although I personally like the cartoon better anyways)

I LOVE having the gene’s lamp in my office – it feels special, magical and full of possibilities.. what would I wish for if I saw Robin Williams or Will Smith pop out of that thing and offer me three wishes!!?

With all the debate on Williams V Smith, I personally think the BEST gene was Barbra Eden on I Dream of Jeanie.
The wacky adventures she and Major Nelson got up to… I’m giggling just thinking about it 😛

I would LOVE to hear what Your three wishes would be!
Would it be Money, Love or phenomenal cosmic powers (with itty bitty living space) or would it be something a little more unconventional?

My three wishes (I’d like to hope) would be:

-End to Poverty/Greed;
-End for all struggling with Sickness (Mental Health & Physical Illnesses); and
-Enough money to do WHAT I love, with WHO I love.

Let me know YOURS in the comments below, and share this with anyone you think deserves three wishes!
Always remember – you can make wishes, pray prayers or do things you LOVE, regardless of Gene’s in Lamps…

See You in the Adventures!
Christy Grace

 

Categories
Fiction Hannah Carmichael Chronicles

ONCE AND FOR ALL | Hannah Carmichael Chronicles (SIXTY-FIVE)

Your Briefing:

Hannah Carmichael is a Super Spy, who was trying to take down CGT – the evil spy agency, which she used to be a part of. Her husband Zeke, was secretly working to take them down, and roped Hannah (and her fellow agent and best friend, Stephanie) into the fight.
Hannah’s mother Evelyn was a CGT and Global enemy, but now, she seems to have been on the same side all along. Her Father James, was believed to be dead, and missing for over a decade, but revealed himself from the fight in the shadows to help take them down once and for all.
With Hannah’s memories sketchy after a CGT Kidnapping, she went with Zeke to a Peace Talks conference, where the Cataclysm domino’s were to start falling – but things went unexpectedly. Shots were fired into the crowd, at the leaders on the podium, and Zeke confirmed the shooter was his Boss – supposedly a ‘good guy’. What will this mean for the team, and for Cataclysm – is it still on? What will CGT do to strike back?

SIXTY-FIVE

“Clearly we were wrong!”
Hannah tapped her pen on the large conference table, as shouting from all seats filled the room. They were reeling from the ‘Peace Talk’ debacle, but nobody was rocked as hard as Zeke. He was sitting beside her, arms resting on the table with no shouts to contribute to the discussion.
A whistle from the head of the table pierced through the noise, and silence struck the room.

“Bickering about blame or past actions isn’t productive,” James Carmichael said, leaning against the table and lowering his head.
“Roy, what are our sources telling us about the leaders and their Peace discussions?”
Roy stood with his tablet in hand, reading through their intel, “As far as we’ve heard, all talks of peace are now stalled.”
A groan filled the room and James put his hand up to invoke silence once again.

Roy continued, “The missile strikes were stopped, but CGT’s plan worked. Both countries see the attempted attack at the Conference, and in their countries, as an attack from the other side.”
Hannah inhaled deeply and shook her head, watching James’ reactions.
Roy shook his head, “all sources are saying there still may be an imminent war.”
Zeke stood, and James straightened his shoulders, watching Zeke as he considered his words.
“What happened, proves just how deep, and high, CGT really goes.” He slammed his hand onto the table and Hannah jumped, exhaling and looking up at the deep hurt and fury in Zeke’s eyes.
“My boss was a killer, and I didn’t see him as linked to CGT. I should have,” he looked down at Hannah. “They already took something I care deeply about. We can’t let them take anything else.”

Hannah stood and rested her hand on his arm, “Zeke’s right, this company goes deep. Deeper than I thought; than any of us thought.”
She turned to look at James and shrugged, “I know my memories are scattered, but even I can see that their reach extends globally.” Hannah looked around the table at people she could only vaguely recall and took a breath.
“I think we can take CGT down, and stop them once and for all.”

Author’s Note:

Thanks for reading the latest instalment of the Hannah Carmichael Chronicles! Hannah will be back Soon for the next part of her adventure – we both look forward to seeing you there!
Christy Grace

Categories
Fiction Hannah Carmichael Chronicles

SENSE OF HUMOUR | Hannah Carmichael Chronicles (SIXTY-FOUR)

Hannah Carmichael is a Super Spy, who was trying to take down CGT – the evil spy agency of which she used to be a part of. Her husband Zeke, was secretly working to take them down as well, and roped Hannah and her fellow agent (and best friend) Stephanie, into the fight. 
Hannah’s mother Evelyn was a known terrorist and CGT enemy, but now seems to have been on the same side all along. Her Father James, was believed to be dead and missing for over a decade, but has now shown up from his fight in the shadows to help take them down once and for all.
Hannah woke up without her memory, and is now relying on her family to help find her way back and stop CGT.
With a World War III event called ‘Cataclysm’ on the horizon, and Hannah trying to fight, and regain her memories, what will she and her team find out, and how will they stop CGT? 

SIXTY-FOUR

Sirens screamed through the street and Hannah whipped around, as agents from almost every department of the government aimed their weapons at the shooter. He stood in the middle of a human circle and Hannah tried to peek her head above the sea of black and grey suits. She turned to Zeke, defeated and shook her head, her own weapon by her side. “I can’t see who it is, but I think he’s surrounded.” She smiled and Zeke rolled his eyes. 

“At least you didn’t forget your sense of humour. We need a better vantage point,” he said, nodding towards the stage and walking towards the higher ground. 

After twenty minutes of static, James Carmichael’s voice finally came through their comms system. “Attack on the European and Russia area has been neutralised. Status of the Middle East?” 

“We’ve run into a small snag, report to come soon!” Stephanie Winchester replied in a frantic voice. 

Hannah stopped walking as a memory flashed through her brain. Driving in the jungle in the back of a Ute, with the woman called Stephanie yelling at the driver. She pulled out a big gun and began shooting at another truck which was following them. Hannah shook her head and pushed the memory away, moving forward towards the stage where Zeke was already climbing the steps. 

“Why did CGT send a shooter? They already had the attacks planned,” she asked as he climbed up the final step. “They’re scrambling for Plan B, just in case,” Zeke replied. 

Gunshots from the middle of the human circle sent shockwaves through the area. Shouts from agents, and shooting into the circle from behind SWAT shields erupted. Bullet casings flew into the air and Hannah moved closer to the makeshift stage. Zeke aimed his gun in the direction of the shooter, his face suddenly white. 

As Hannah reached the higher vantage point, she looked into the middle of the circle where blood soaked through the shirt of the shooter. He lay motionless, his face familiar, but Hannah couldn’t place it. 

“We have to get out of here,” Zeke said, his voice shaking as he swallowed hard. 

“Why, who is it?” Hannah let him pull her hand down the stairs, and they ran towards their car, slamming the doors and flying out of the parking lot. 

Hannah reached up, pressing the transmit button on her inner ear communications. “Shooter at the Peace Talks is neutralised, on our way back to The Palace.” Hannah exhaled and closed her eyes. “Who was that Zeke?” She opened her eyes again and looked over at the man who was her husband. “Your face went dead white when you saw him.” 

Zeke sat silently for a minute, then shifted in his seat. “That was my boss.” 

“What do you mean your boss? At the Defence Strategic Policy-“

“Yes. It was my boss. It was Oliver.”

See You in the Adventures!
Christy Grace