The only lavender I knew for a long time was the Yardley Lavender Talc tucked away in an aunt's cupboard. She smelt of that talc. She used it on herself, frugally after a shower. Then again when she had a wash at tea-time. But her clothes smelt of lavender. All the time. The secret, a cousin discovered one summer, was a clean hanky she always carried with her. The folds had lavender talc in generous measure.The next encounter with lavender came in a suitcase. An uncle bought us kids some 'scent' from ... Read More...

What kind of relationship do you have with the Almighty? Is it one of gratitude or are you cynical about His creation? Do you think he has neglected you? Look around you honey, and start counting your blessings.Has he been good to you? Pass on the tribute and be good to others. You don't understand his decisions? None of us are qualified to, so just accept them. Why did he put down war on earth? He just made man and has been at war with himself ever since. Why is there so much unhappiness in this world?Most of ... Read More...

Some signs and symptoms of inner peace: A tendency to think and act spontaneously rather than on fears based on past experiences.An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment. A loss of interest in judging other people.A loss of interest in interpreting the actions of others. A loss of interest in conflict.Loss of the ability to worry. This is a serious symptom.Frequent, overwhelming episodes of appreciation.A feeling of contentment.Feeling connected with others and nature.Frequent attacks of smiling.An increasing tenden... Read More...

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All you young things just out of college and taking the first step into the professional world! Success is something that comes with hard work and commitment, and it would do you a world of good to just follow these simple tips which will lead you to a bright future. Here are five steps to help you achieve success in every endeavour. This may not ensure that you never face any problems, but can help you remain focused towards your goals. Read More...

'Afflicted' by shyness? Come, join the gang! Want to know how the dictionary defines 'shyness'? Diffidence, bashfulness, reserve, timidity, mousiness (GOD! NO!), meekness, modesty, self-consciousness. So how many of these apply to you? The antonyms listed are confidence, calm, assurance - qualities that seem to abound in those fortunate others who are not similarly afflicted!Can you imagine how you would feel if you are transformed into one of those brash, over-confident, assertive, pushy people - pe... Read More...

Start smart. Make all your appointments    for mammogram, pap smear before the calendar fills up. Also make unbreakable dates for a facial, massage or aerobics with a good trainer.Seek emotion in motion. Workout your mind and body by walking in a new place once a week. You'll burn off calories and stress as you explore the sights.Unchain your brain. Active minds stay sharper    and sharp minds are sexy! So seek new activities. Take a class or find a volunteer commitment.Remember your gender. You... Read More...

If someone were to grant you a wish, what would you ask for? True love? A fabulous career in front of lights and camera? Winning a lottery? If you're wise, you'll settle on happiness    and when asked, most people say they would choose it over love, fame and riches. But how can you make it the basis of your life without the help of a genie? Here are some insights into happy people. Happy people are often absorbed in some task or the other. All happy people are optimists. Pessimists complain, whereas optimists ... Read More...

The tendency of the human mind is to forget. We have an experience. We get to a certain point. We forget. I really think all of life is remembering, reminding one another. The way I feel is that sometimes I become temporarily insane. I need something to bring me back to sanity, to bring me back to that place-which is what good friends are about, what being in nature is about, what taking time for meditation, creativity, for prayer, for being present to beauty is about. These bring you back to that spot. This is an impor... Read More...

Tough day, huh? Been on your feet the whole time, rushing from one unfinished task to another? Was it ridiculously stress-filled? Or were you rushing from one personal disaster to another, putting out virtual fires? We know the feeling and we know much you need to sit back, relax and give your feet the pampering they really deserve! First, get a really big bowl or a pan or a tub. Place a few drops of an aromatherapy oil of your choice in the bowl, or use half a cup of table salt or baking soda. Bath salts work fine too.... Read More...

Stressed out? Harried? Here are five thoughts    simple thoughts to carry with you all day. Use these ideas to steal moments of peace and tranquillity. Follow these easy guidelines to remain calm even in the most difficult and trying of moments. Live for nowMost worries are located in the future. They revolve around things that, in most cases, might never happen. Concentrate on the here and now. Devote your energies to the present and the future will take care of itself.Look for the best in everyone, every ti... Read More...

Call me Madam X. Or should I say Madam Ex? Ex wife, ex employee. I'm forty-one years old - certainly not a spring chicken - and considered obsolete in these days when technology outdates itself every couple of years.For reasons I won't discuss here - I have no choice but to be financially independent henceforth. It obviously isn't going to be a bed of roses. When life throws a spanner in your works at this age, you need to think on your feet - and hold onto what you have.How do I manage? I take one da... Read More...