Author Archives: Aidan

The Importance of a Good Pension

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Whether you are just starting out in your working life, or just about to stop working permanently, you should still be thinking about your pension. 

A pension doesn’t simply sit there until you are ready to use it. Depending on the part of the world you live in, and your job role, you may be entitled to a state pension, company pension, or both. 

Many people have an array of questions about their pension and how versatile the system is. 

Can I transfer my pension? The answer is simple: yes, you can. Transferring pensions can be a great idea if the provider you are currently with does not offer a pension plan that suits you. You may also have more than one pension plan in place, from multiple or previous jobs, that you wish to bring together into one lump sum. This can be done by instructing the current providers of your change – you click the above link for more info.

There are a wide variety of pension plans available in the United States that give you a wide range of choice dependent on your current and future situations, as well as familial responsibilities. 

Can I pay more if I have the spare money? Again, the answer is yes. You can pay in more than the minimum amount if you so choose, to increase the payments you will receive later in life. You may find it beneficial to use some form of pension calculator to figure out just how much you should be putting in now so that you can afford the lifestyle you want in the future or essentials at the very minimum.

A good pension plan is vital to your later life. When you no longer have a stable, monthly income from your current place of employment, it is the pension that will make sure you can pay your bills and buy food. 

Some pensions can also be used by your spouse. This means that, if you die, your money won’t entirely be wasted. Your spouse can then receive some of this money up until their own death.

Once you reach the age of entitlement, your pension is yours to do with as you see fit. Unlike food stamps or other government-provided means of assistance, the pension comes from years of input from either yourself or your employer, meaning that it is actually, in part, your money trickling back to you. There are no limitations on what this money is used for, but once you have used that payment, you would not receive another until your next scheduled date. Due to this, it is increasingly important that your pension does what you want, and that you spend wisely. 

Having a good pension plan in place now can make life that bit easier for you when you retire. Enjoying your golden years can be a very real possibility when you have put the work into place in your youth. 

Brand collaboration with Wealthify.

6 Benefits of Sleeping on Your Side

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Most of us don’t put much thought into what sleeping position we sleep in at night. We’re often more worried about getting enough sleep or being able to fall asleep in the first place. But the position you choose to sleep in could be having an impact on your health. 

Side sleeping is the most common sleeping position in the U.S. Research has shown that people who sleep on their side are often much healthier than people who choose to sleep on their back or their front. The health benefits of sleeping on your side can range from enhancing brain health to relieving aches and pains. If you want to learn about some of the other benefits of sleeping on your side, then keep reading below:

  1. It Can Support Brain Health

While this benefit may come as a surprise to you, sleeping on your side could actually help to support our brain health. The Journal of Neuroscience states that while we sleep, our bodies work hard to clear out any waste left behind in our brains. If our brains do this effectively, it could help reduce our chances of getting neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s, and it could help to increase our brain activity and longevity. Research has shown that sleeping on your side can help with this process. 

  1. It Can Reduce Your Aches and Pains

If you struggle with aches and pains, then now might be the time to start sleeping on your side. You will need a good mattress for side sleepers and a supportive pillow, which you can place between your knees. Sleeping in this position allows your spine to remain extended and neutral, which helps reduce neck and back pain. It has also been shown to help relieve pressure on your wrists.

  1. It Can Reduce Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Sleep apnea and snoring occur when you struggle to breathe while you’re sleeping. This happens when your airway closes or becomes restricted. Sleeping on your side will help you to keep your airway open. This will allow you (and your partner) to get a better night’s sleep.

  1. It Can Be Good for Digestion

Research has shown that sleeping on our left side can help improve digestion and help to regulate bowel movements. So, if you’re struggling with infrequent bowel movements, why not give sleeping on your left side a try? 

  1. It Can Help Relieve Heartburn

Lots of us struggle with heartburn. The symptoms of heartburn (or GERD) include regurgitating food when you burp, a burning sensation in your chest or throat, having the sensation of a lump in your throat, chest pain, and difficulty swallowing.

The symptoms of heartburn often get worse when we lie down. This can make falling to sleep and sleeping through the night a real challenge. However, you may find that lying on your left side with pillows under your head and neck will help to relieve some of the symptoms you’re experiencing. If you still experience symptoms, then purchasing a wedge pillow may help. 

  1. It is the Perfect Position for Pregnant Women

Lots of pregnant women find sleeping difficult. The recommended sleeping position for pregnant women is sleeping on your left side. Sleeping in this position stops you from putting pressure on your liver, it can help improve blood circulation, and it can help reduce your chances of developing high blood pressure. 

If you’re used to sleeping on your back or front, then you may find it hard to fall asleep on your side, but it can be done. It may take a little bit of time to get used to side sleeping, but the health benefits that are associated with it are worth the effort. Will you choose to change the way you sleep in order to improve your health? 

 

This is a brand post with our partner. 

These are the top 30 signs you are trustworthy

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The signs you are trustworthy have been revealed – and include never being late, not cancelling plans at the last minute and being able to keep secrets.

Researchers who polled 2,000 adults identified the indicators someone can be relied upon – with being a good listener and a tendency to help others featuring on the list.

Someone who is self-aware, calm-headed, not judgemental, and always there when you need them is also likely to be worthy of trust.

Being respectful of boundaries is important too, as is adhering to the rules rather than breaking them.

Commissioned by technical outdoor brand Helly Hansen, as part of its ‘trust is earned’ campaign, the study found the typical adult trusts seven people.

But four in 10 think recent events have shown who is truly trustworthy.

A spokeswoman for Helly Hansen said: “Trustworthiness has always been an important trait – it’s arguably the foundation of all relationships, personal or professional.

“But it must be earned, whether that’s confiding in a colleague, trusting in yourself to take on a new challenge or hiking in the mountains with friends.

“The purpose of our research was to show what it takes to earn trust – whether it’s within yourself, another person, a team or your kit – and findings suggest trust is hard to achieve.”

The study found 85 per cent of adults consider themselves to be trustworthy people.

But those polled claimed to have had their trust broken on an average of 14 occasions since they became an adult.

This might explain why more than half find it difficult to trust other people and also why seven in 10 think once their trust has been broken it can never be restored.

However, a quarter said recent events have made them more willing to let bygones be bygones and forgive, while one in 10 believe they’ve become more trusting this year.

But, the Helly Hansen study carried out through OnePoll found a whopping 90 per cent agree trust is earned.

It also identified the most trustworthy people in society – with health professionals, namely doctors and nurses, coming out on top.

Those who work in fire and rescue came second, while dentists were third.

A spokeswoman for Helly Hansen added: “For professionals working in harsh environments where the stakes are high, success cannot be achieved without trust.

“Trust enables you to do your job and follow your passions with complete focus and determination.

“Trust in your gear, your partners and your knowledge of terrain and weather conditions make the difference between an epic or bad experience in the outdoors.”

Sailor Hannah Stodel, three times World Champion, four times Paralympian, and Helly Hansen ambassador, said about trust: “It’s ultimately everything in sailing; the team that you surround yourself with are what keep you alive.

“You trust that they have done their jobs right, you trust that the kit you’re using is the best for the job, you trust that it will keep you warm, safe and dry.

“You trust your boat will keep on pushing through, you trust that you will get to the finish line, and you trust in your own ability to get there.”

TOP 30 SIGNS OF TRUST

1. They are reliable

2. They aren’t manipulative

3. They don’t share things said in confidence with others

4. They are consistent in their behaviour

5. They have integrity

6. Their words and behaviour match up

7. They haven’t broken your trust before

8. They respect boundaries

9. They listen to you

10. You know them very well

11. They are considerate towards you

12. They are willing to help

13. They are considerate towards others

14. They have been in your life for a long time

15. They are authentic

16. They don’t cancel plans last minute

17. They aren’t judgemental

18. They tend to be rational

19. They trust you

20. They are transparent

21. They don’t have a temper

22. They give you emotional support

23. They are calm-headed

24. They follow the rules

25. They don’t go AWOL for days at a time and are there when you need them

26. They resolve conflict in a healthy way

27. They have self-awareness

28. They are never late

29. They make a positive difference to society /help others

30. You share their principles

 

 

A Connected World: 4 Top Social Activities to Enjoy Online

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social networking, coronavirus, social media, covid-19, staying in touch, staying connected.

Source: Pxfuel.com

Staying in touch is harder than ever. But in times like these, social interaction is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Fortunately, the digital world is well-prepared to keep you communicating and entertained. There is a range of platforms out there dedicated to bringing people together as much as providing great services. While many of them were already popular, their value to consumers is especially apparent now. 

Below are four examples of online activities that have gathered very happy audiences. What is just as impressive is the variety of social entertainment actually available. Whatever your hobbies and interests, you will find something to connect you with friends, family or complete strangers with common interests.
Video Chatting

Demand for telecommunication software that can handle several users at the same time has skyrocketed. Can you imagine the pressure put on brands like Skype and WhatsApp, their status and expertise tested as rivals surge to cover group chat needs? Many would say that Zoom is the most effective of the lot, as it supports everything from conference meetings to fitness classes. Its competitors are on the offence, though, helped by reports that Zoom is not doing so well in terms of the security and privacy it affords users. All these apps are sucking up the attention and striving to maintain, if not improve, users’ experience.
Dating

It is not just about meeting someone special. Several people go on dating apps to simply chat and connect with new faces in their area or even around the world. This friendly, straightforward attitude is what the Badoo Android audience enjoy, for example. A simple design that gives you the chance to filter straight to the kinds of people you want to talk to, with so many opportunities for stimulating conversation. It’s one of the many perks of digital connectivity that make socialising remotely more fun and comfortable.
Video Gaming

When you run out of things to talk about, what do you do? Play games! Social media and video chatting platforms have loads of entertainment for multiple players, whether casual or more intense. But there are bigger titles too that allow a far more exciting way to connect. A great example at the moment is Animal Crossing, Nintendo’s simulation series that is constantly adding new members. Why fight dragons when you can build a home in a virtual world populated by cute animals? It was perhaps the social elements of this game that have made it such a hit, paired with a wholesomeness many gamers appreciate.
TV and Movies

For more laidback fun at home, streaming services are gradually introducing group-watching features. As if Netflix was not popular enough, it now allows for access to a party mode. You simply start by picking a programme and then share the link with a bunch of friends so you can enjoy it together – perfect for a remote Star Wars marathon. Keep in mind, though, that Netflix Party only works on Google Chrome browsers. Apart from minor details like these, great evenings of laughs and popcorn are still very much on the table.
Your day can be as calm or epic as you want. Try out these highly-rated options or explore what other fun you can have with your friends online. You can at least be sure that your entertainment needs are covered. Whether you are in the mood for World of Warcraft or a coffee chat, the digital world is here to serve.

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How to Choose a Fishing Kayak

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Choosing a fishing kayak is one of the best decisions you can make when choosing a fishing boat. They are relatively cheaper than powerboats and they can be used in a variety of settings including ponds, lakes, and rivers.  The challenge is that most people do not know how to choose the right kayak for the fishing situations they think they might find themselves in. Below, we will look at a few simple things you ought to keep in mind when choosing a fishing kayak.

Length

A fishing kayak’s length impacts its performance. A longer kayak is faster, but a shorter kayak is more maneuverable. If you primarily fish on small ponds, backwaters, and creeks, it would be better to choose the shorter kayak. If you fish in larger bodies of water like lakes and dams, you can opt for the longer option so you are able to get to and from your favorite fishing spots faster. It is important to consider your body type too when considering what kayak length to go with; if you are taller, choose one that is more than 11 feet long.

Pedals

Some people love to have their hands free when fishing. If you are one of them, you might want to choose a kayak that has pedals. That way, you can use both hands to hold the fishing rod or even use the pedals to control your speed while you move downstream. 

The two types of pedal kayaks are rotational pedal kayaks and push-pedal kayaks. The rotational pedal kayaks let you move your feet as if you were walking and are great if you would like to go a long distance. The push-pedal kayaks allow you to only use your feet to propel the kayak and are better suited if you like to move through the water at a casual pace.

Consider the Kayak’s Stability

Today, technology advancements allow companies to build kayaks with greater stability. For example, today’s kayaks allow you to stand while you are on the water while older models do not. Remember that the more stable a kayak is, the harder it will be to maneuver, so check the stability of the kayak before you buy it.

A good rule of thumb is to go for a wider option if you have a wider body because this kayak will be stable enough for you.  If you are a troller or angler, opt for a narrower model because you might need to cover a long distance while fishing.

Do You Need a Keel?

A keel is a fin-shaped piece of plastic that extends from the kayak’s hull into the water. A keel can help improve your kayak’s speed, tracking, and stability. For those who fish on open water a lot, a kayak with a keel is the better option. The keel also makes it easier to paddle in deeper water. If you fish in shallow water or love to fish standing up, opt for a model without a fin.

Portability

As kayaks have become more advanced, they have also become heavier. When choosing a kayak, you should go for one that is easy to carry, especially if you fish a lot. If you like, you should consider some cheaper models as most of them are very portable. 

Opt for More Room

If you carry a lot of gear when fishing or want to incorporate some electronics into your kayak, ensure that you choose one that has enough room. The extra room might not just be for all the things you intend to carry but also your legs and feet.

Choosing a kayak can be confusing because there are so many different models available that have lots of different features. The most important thing to know is where you fish and how important stability, enough room, and maneuverability are to you. Once you know this, choosing a kayak will become easier.

 

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4 Reasons Your Skin Is Looking Dull – and What You Can Do About It

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There are many reasons why your skin might be looking dull, but there are just as many solutions. Dull and unhealthy skin can lead to a tired and wrinkled appearance, and no one wants that! The good news is that simple changes can make a big difference when it comes to combatting a lackluster complexion. Here are some common reasons why your skin might be looking dull – and what you can do about it.

The Environment

The air both inside and out contains many pollutants and small dirt particles, all of which are bad for your skin as well as your body. When dirt clings to your skin and clogs the pores, it gives it an uneven texture, which also diffuses light. This can make you look even more tired, and as though you have more wrinkles! The only way you can remedy this is to make sure you cleanse your face thoroughly at night before you go to sleep. If you don’t, all that dirt will start to cause untold damage to your skin. So, remove all traces of makeup with a gentle makeup remover, followed by a splash with warm soapy water.

Your Diet

What you drink and eat can be contributing factors to your dull complexion. Of course, drinking plenty of water should be common sense, as it helps to hydrate the skin and increase blood flow to your face. Additionally, any wrinkles you do have will appear deeper in dehydrated skin, so water is a great way to help reduce them. However, while drinking enough water is important, you should not neglect your diet, assuming that your water consumption will offset any negative effects. If you continue to eat foods high in sugar, salt and fat, you will reduce your skin’s ability to retain any moisture. So, try to eat plenty of green leafy vegetables, fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and eggs.

Stress

Stress is also a major reason why you may be suffering from dull-looking skin. And when you are worried about your appearance, it can lead to more feelings of stress, leaving you in a never-ending cycle. If you aren’t looking your best for an important presentation at work, a first date, or another special occasion, your confidence levels will suffer, and your fight or flight response will kick in. This means all your blood flow will be concentrated on your vital organs and not your skin. It’s easy enough to suggest avoiding stressful situations, but this is not always impossible. In these cases, you can try giving yourself a facial massage to help get the blood flowing. You should be left with plump looking skin and a more glowing complexion, which in turn will boost your self-esteem.

Not Using the Right Products

You might already have a skincare routine and still suffer from dull skin. In this case, it may that you are using the wrong type of product. For example, if you usually have dry skin, you should avoid oil-absorbing products, as this will simply exacerbate the problem. Also, products that contain PEG (polyethylene glycol) should be avoided, as it is said to reduce or alter the skin’s natural ability to retain moisture. It’s best to look for products that contain natural ingredients; for example, here’s a facial serum with vitamin C that helps to brighten and even skin tone and reduces inflammation, with additional ingredients such as green tea and aloe.

By taking the tips listed on board, dull skin can be a thing of the past!

 

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Ways to recover after partying all night

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sweet potato, salad, health, diet, weight loss,The morning after the night before can sometimes be a bit of a painful one depending on how hard you push it. Like so many other party animals, you can get a bit carried away, then you’ll be pleased to know there are certain things you can do to speed up the recovery process. 

While the obvious advice is to take it easy in the first place, that might not be right for you mainly if there’s a big celebration afoot. Take a look at some cheats for life when you hit 20 and few suggestions below, and hopefully, you’ll be able to conduct damage limitation and feel human again sooner rather than later!

  1. H2Oh-yes

Yes, it is that simple. One of the main issues with a hangover is dehydration so this time when you are drinking, make sure it’s water-based rather than vodka-based! Some sugar can give you an energy boost too so you could choose one non-carbonated sugary drink too and get that down you. You might also want to try some rehydration sachets. They are a rapid way to replenish lost salts that will make you feel lousy.

  1. Eat up

Alcohol depletes our inner resources, so your instinct is to crave high fat, high salt, high badness foods. These can make us feel better in the very short-term, but the likelihood is you will feel worse afterwards. Try to choose foods that will help including 

  • Complex carbs – such as wholemeal bread to give you some energy
  • Eggs – these contain cysteine, which is an amino acid that helps breakdown acetaldehyde, the root cause of hangovers 
  • Bananas. These are full of potassium and magnesium, which you lose when you are boozing. Potassium will combat nausea plaguing you as well as that awful feeling of fatigue
  1. Pop the pills

While a headache may well be caused by dehydration, it can also be compounded by tiredness, tension and maybe a bit too much load music. And that’s why painkillers were invented! If the feelings of sickness are chaining you to your bathroom floor too then consider trying some anti-sickness tablets. Moreover, if you become somewhat more frivolous with your attitude towards contraception, then you might also want to treat yourself to a morning after pill to be on the safe side. The symptoms of unprotected sex last much longer than those of a hangover if you aren’t careful! 

  1. Love yourself

You may have been loving someone special last night or even everyone on the dancefloor but do not forget to save a bit for yourself for the next day. A hangover is always exacerbated by the beer fear and feelings of guilt and shame that frankly, torture yourself with isn’t needed. Most of us have been there, so try not to be too tough on yourself.

In the moment, the next day can feel torturous but remember – it only lasts a day. The memories you recreate from having a great time with friends and family will last forever, long after the hangover has passed. Follow our tips to feel better and enjoy yourself. Just ensure that you are safe while you are doing it!

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PARTY PLANNING – COVENTRY

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At some point, you get tired of attending clubs but still want to have a good time with your friends, with all the variables under your control the only option you’re left with when you get to that point is to plan a party. Party planning generally requires a lot of dedication to the cause. This is because you have to make sure that every single detail is taken into consideration to achieve one important goal – guest satisfaction. You don’t need to be a party planner to throw an unforgettable party. All you need is a guide, and the type of party in question determines what details you should be looking out for. Party planning in Coventry is no different and this guide ensures that you leave no stones unturned to plan a party to remember.

 

THE EVENT

This is the first thing that comes to mind when a party is mentioned. What are you celebrating? It could be a birthday celebration, a Halloween party, an office party or just a random house party. Are you looking at a daytime or night time party? Whatever the case, knowing what kind of event helps you to narrow down your planning and picking a theme, if necessary.

 

BUDGET

For everything in life, having a budget is paramount. Now that it’s time to party, prepare a strict budget and adhere to it. Try as much as possible to avoid unnecessary things and compare prices with vendors to get the most affordable and good quality offers.

 

VENUE

As a party hub, there are a lot of party venues Coventry has to offer. Before picking one, however, the season at the time for the party is a top priority. You don’t want to have your guests at an outdoor party in winter. You also need to consider the number of guests you’ll be expecting as that determines the venue capacity. One last tip on the venue is the location. Find a place that is easy to locate and central to parts of the city your guests will be arriving from. Venuefinder makes it quite easy for the party planner to pick a venue, by offering an array of options around Coventry.

 

GUESTS

Preparing a guest list goes hand in hand with making a budget and picking out a venue. As already stated, the number of guests you intend to invite determines the size of the venue and the cost. It is also essential to prepare a guest list to make it easy to send out invitations and knowing the exact people you want at your party.

 

ENTERTAINMENT

This part right here is the life wire of your party. What’s a party without music, food, and drinks? Most of the venues on Venuefinder have complete packages that cater to this aspect of your party; from DJs to bands and food vendors.

 

The nightlife and party spirit in Coventry are very much alive but if you want to throw your party, these tips will help you do that effortlessly.

 

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