Author: Igor

  • HEIS by Anaïs Volpé

    HEIS by Anaïs Volpé

    HEIS is a cross-media project by French artist and filmmaker Anaïs Volpé. This innovative project is composed of a series, a feature film and an art installation. To find out more about it, we spoke with Anaïs about her background, the different elements of HEIS and the places where the project will be screened and exhibited.

    www.heis.fr

    Could you please tell us about yourself and your background?

    I’m a French filmmaker although, initially, I used to work in theatre as an actress. Theatre is kind of my first love. Also, I’m a freelance photographer and videographer for different magazines. I always like new collaborations through creation and I’m also involved in visual arts.

    I left school when I was 17 because I really wanted to work in Arts. I learned many things by being an assistant director for almost two years. After that, I learned a lot from theatre, especially from stage directing and acting – it opened my mind and my imagination. A few years after that, I learnt how to edit videos with tutorials on YouTube and I started to shoot small shortfilms, around 1 and 3 minutes long, in order to practice. I later found a producer who helped me film my first real short movie named ‘BLAST’. The movie has been selected in a few festivals and received the Jury Prize in the International Film Festival Between China and France. Thanks to this prize I was invited by the French Embassy in China to visit the country and I received help from the French Cultural Institute of Beijing in order to work on my next project within an artistic residency in Beijing. That’s how two years ago I started working on my latest project, HEIS, while I was in China.

    Future-Positive-Heis-1

    Could you describe HEIS briefly?

    HEIS is a Greek word (εἷς) meaning one, to be one, not as individualism but as self-fulfilment. This project is about how one human being tries to reach the ‘number one’, the daily struggle of one’s mind, body and heart. HEIS is a cross-media project composed of a feature film (90’), a series (5×11’) and an art-exhibition. The project received help from the French Cultural Institute of Beijing and has been shot between France, China and USA, with so much heart and an independent spirit.

    I can say that the whole project is about universal youth issues -especially in Europe- such as lack of jobs, rising of terrorism in the world… It is about the distress of the youth, of a whole generation that won’t be neither really poor or really rich. But it is also about family guilt: the real question about the duty to stay (close to our family) or the right to go (and to emancipate). In an other words, HEIS is a project for the youth made by the youth.

    Please tell us a little more about each of the parts of this cross-media project.

    The three parts of the project can be enjoyed separately or together. This possibility is the particularity of this cross-media project. It’s complementary but it can be understood
    independently.

    The feature film is an hybrid film mixing video in HD, old VHS, fiction and fictional documentary. I think it is a two speeds film, two languages dedicated to two generations: youth and parents.
    It is a love and a anger story, an emancipation and a guilt story, a blood and a life story : a family tale. No matter the period, the country or the language, this theme remains complicated.

    The series is very complementary to the feature film because, I’ve used around one quarter of the series in the feature film (in a different order) and if you want to see it completely, you have to watch the series. The series is made of 5 episodes of 11minutes each. The work in the series is more of a ‘voice over’ exercise. Each episode is about an universal struggle that every human being can experiment once in their own life. It’s about contrasts and choices.

    The art exhibition is also complementary to the series and the feature film. It’s a mix between art and digital. You can discover in the exhibition the work of one of the main characters of the feature-film who is also working on art exhibition. The exhibition is composed of digital, sounds and visual artworks in connection with the feature film and the web series: subtitled photographs, QR codes, videos in old TVs and computers…

    What events are you going to be involved at this year with HEIS?

    The feature film is still in Sound post-production right now. I’m going to send it to some film festivals that I really like and support. And I’m currently looking for a distributor in order to release it in theatres in 2017.

    The series has been already selected in film festivals in France and abroad (NYC, Reykjavik, Hong Kong, Chicago…) and I’m currently waiting for answers from others festivals. After that, I will collaborate with a film distributor in order to release the series (TV and web, I hope) by the end of 2016.

    The art-exhibition has been already exhibited in three places in France. The current place is now extending the exhibition for one more month until the end of April, so you can still see it Paris at the moment. In May the exhibition will be shown in London and after that in Berlin.

    I’m also working on releasing the project with all the three parts together in some places suitable for that. I hope that it will be possible. It’s a very long process to release your artistic project and I have to be as patient as the audience is! All the information about where the films are selected and screened are on the Facebook page and you can also check the ‘live exhibition’ of the project on our Instagram account, heis_crossmedia.

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    Are you currently working on any other projects or have plans to work on something new after HEIS?

    Yes, whenever I have some free time I work on the script of my next feature film. I would like to develop it quite soon. To be honest, in fact, I have two ideas for films. And I’m currently developing and I’ll see which one will be easier to do with a producer. I don’t know yet if I’ll shoot it in France. One of this scripts, named ‘Märlha’, has just been selected by ‘La Maison des Scénarites’ at the ‘Festival de Cannes 2016’ and will be pitched during the Festival to producers.

    Apart from that, I continue writing screenplays for theatre, just for pleasure. I’m constantly working on something related to visual arts – it helps me to keep inspired.

  • Discover How Aerosol Spray and Knee Braces Can Reduce Knee Pain

    What is Knee Pain? 

    Knee pain is one of the most common musculoskeletal complaints that affect people of all ages. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as sports injuries, overuse, arthritis or degenerative joint disease. The pain may range from mild to severe and can interfere with daily activities like walking, running or standing for prolonged periods.

    Aerosol sprays are a popular method used to alleviate knee pain. These sprays contain ingredients like menthol and camphor which have analgesic properties that help reduce pain and inflammation. They work by cooling down the affected area and numbing the nerves around it, providing temporary relief from discomfort.

    Knee braces are another effective way to manage knee pain. They provide support to the knee joint by keeping it in proper alignment while reducing stress on the surrounding muscles and ligaments. This helps prevent further damage or injury while promoting healing in the affected area. 

    Causes of Knee Pain 

    Knee pain is a common issue among people of all ages. It can occur due to various reasons such as injury, overuse, arthritis, or other medical conditions. The most common cause of knee pain is an injury to the knee joint. This can happen while playing sports, running or even walking on uneven surfaces.

    Another leading cause of knee pain is osteoarthritis, which happens when the protective cartilage in the joint wears away over time. This leads to swelling and inflammation in the knee joint and causes pain during movement.

    Using aerosol sprays and knee braces are two effective ways to reduce knee pain caused by injury or arthritis. Aerosol sprays work by numbing the nerve endings around the affected area temporarily. On the other hand, knee braces offer support and stability to your knee joint while you move around, reducing pressure on your knees during activity. Both are affordable options for anyone seeking relief from their chronic or acute knee pains without resorting to expensive surgeries or medications. 

    Benefits of Aerosol Spray 

    Aerosol sprays have become a popular solution for reducing knee pain, especially for athletes and people who engage in physical activities that involve their knees. One of the most significant benefits of aerosol spray is its ability to reduce inflammation and swelling on the knee joint. The cold sensation from the spray helps to constrict blood vessels in the affected area, which reduces blood flow and minimizes fluid build-up.

    Another benefit of using aerosol spray is its convenience. Unlike other treatments that require extensive preparation or equipment, an aerosol spray can be used anywhere at any time. Additionally, because it is easy to apply, users can focus on specific areas around their knees where they experience pain.

    Finally, one of the most significant advantages of using aerosol sprays over traditional methods like ice packs or hot compresses is that it provides immediate relief. With just a few sprays applied directly to the affected area within seconds, users can feel a cooling effect that eases pain and discomfort in less than 10 minutes. Overall, incorporating an aerosol spray into your routine as part of treating knee pain could offer significant relief for those experiencing mild to moderate symptoms without having to resort to more invasive treatments such as surgery or prescription medication. 

    Benefits of Knee Braces 

    Knee braces are an effective way to provide support and stability to your knee joints, especially if you are recovering from a knee injury or surgery. They work by providing compression and limiting the range of motion in the knee joint, which helps reduce pain and inflammation. Knee braces can also help prevent further injuries, as they protect the knees from impact or sudden movements.

    In addition to providing physical support, wearing a knee brace can also improve your mental confidence when performing physical activities. Knowing that your injured knee is protected can give you the confidence to push yourself harder during exercises or sports. This increased confidence can lead to improved performance and better results.

    Finally, using a knee brace can be an affordable alternative to more invasive treatments like surgery or injections. Knee braces are widely available and come in a range of styles and sizes to fit any need or budget. By investing in a high-quality knee brace, you may be able to avoid costly medical procedures while still getting relief from your knee pain. 

    Treatment Plan Suggestion 

    Aerosol spray and knee braces are two effective ways to reduce knee pain. Aerosol sprays, such as topical analgesics, can help soothe sore muscles and joints. These sprays work by numbing the area they are applied to and providing temporary relief from pain. They are particularly useful for people with arthritis or other chronic conditions that cause ongoing discomfort.

    Knee braces are another treatment option for reducing knee pain. They work by providing support to the joint and limiting its movement, which can help alleviate pain caused by injury or strain. There are many types of knee braces available, each designed for specific purposes and levels of support. Some provide compression to reduce swelling while others offer stability during physical activity.

    Overall, both aerosol spray and knee braces can be valuable components of a comprehensive treatment plan for reducing knee pain. As with any medical treatment, it’s important to discuss these options with a healthcare professional before beginning use. With the right combination of treatments tailored specifically to an individual’s needs, it is possible to manage even severe cases of knee pain effectively. 

    Preparation for Use 

    Preparation for use of aerosol spray and knee braces is crucial to ensure their effectiveness in reducing knee pain. Before using an aerosol spray, it is important to shake the can well to mix the ingredients. The affected area should be cleaned and dried before application, and a small amount of the spray should be tested on a small area of skin first to check for any adverse reactions. It is also recommended to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer closely.

    Similarly, preparing knee braces before use involves adjusting them properly for a comfortable fit. Knee braces come in different sizes, so it is important to measure the circumference of the knee accurately before selecting a brace. The brace should be positioned correctly over the kneecap and secured tightly but not too tight that it restricts circulation or causes discomfort. It may take some time getting used to wearing a knee brace, so it is advisable to wear it for short periods initially before gradually increasing its usage over time.

    By properly preparing these aids prior to use, individuals can effectively manage their knee pain without risking further discomfort or injury. 

    Conclusion: Reduce Knee Pain 

    In conclusion, knee pain can be a debilitating issue that affects many individuals. However, there are ways to reduce this pain and improve one’s quality of life. For starters, aerosol spray has been found to be an effective solution for reducing knee pain. This type of spray is easy to apply directly onto the affected area and can provide quick relief from discomfort.

    Additionally, the use of knee braces can also help alleviate knee pain. These braces provide support and stability to the joint, which can prevent further damage and promote healing. Knee braces come in various types, including compression sleeves and hinged braces that offer more advanced support.

    Overall, it is important to take proactive steps towards reducing knee pain in order to maintain an active lifestyle without limitations. By utilizing products like aerosol sprays and knee braces, individuals suffering from knee pain can find relief and continue doing the things they love without discomfort or fear of further injury. 

  • 7 Free Home Improvements That Save Money on Your Heating Bill

    Energy prices have been going up, and HVAC accounts for one-fifth of the world’s energy consumption. You can lower your energy cost by making small changes to your heating and cooling system. Below are some tips from the experts at CorgiHomePlan.co.uk that will go a long way in helping you save energy while enhancing your comfort.

    Balancing your thermostats 

    Ensure that your indoor thermostat or radiator heads that are in the same room have the same value. If one of them has a setting of 3 while the other is at 5, it results in a lot of inefficiencies that increase the costs and lower the performance.

    Changing the temperature slowly 

    It can be tempting to turn up the thermostat to a high setting when you feel cold, but this is going to use up a lot of energy. It takes some time before the system adapts. If you turn it to the highest setting in one go, you will be comfortable pretty fast, but the room is going to be too hot the next day and you may be forced to open the windows. If you want to avoid this problem, then consider changing the temperature gradually until you get to the sweet spot. This is going to make your system more energy-efficient.

    Carefully opening your windows 

    When you open a window, you mess up the heat equilibrium and increase your costs. Opening the window to reduce the temperature of the room or fresh air is going to send the system into overdrive. Radiators are at the bottom of the windows and they have sensors that are going to notice any drop in temperature. The system will work hard to get the indoor temperature to the optimal setting. It is okay to get some fresh air, but keep in mind the heat loss and how it is going to affect your heating system.

    Freeing your radiators

    Take a tour of your house and see if any radiators have been obstructed by things like some ignored laundry or a pile of toys. These are things that seem minor but can have a lot of impact on heat dissipation in the room. Even when in different rooms, the additional resistance will contribute to energy inefficiency and discomfort.

    Changing your old thermostatic head

    This is not a free home improvement tip, but it is a good investment that is going to be worth it.

    When you replace your old thermostatic radiator heads with modern ones, you can save as much as 7% on energy costs.

    If you have been using the heads for some time, it might be a good idea to replace them. You are going to see the changes and get a good return on your investment. When buying thermostatic radiator heads, you should look for quality ones. Don’t pick the cheapest one because it can end up costing you a lot in the long run. Always choose quality.

    A good one comes with convenient and effective energy-saving clips:

    The blue one limits lower temp. setting like with the night setting

    The red one is going to restrict the upper-temperature range and prevents people from setting very high temperature by accident. 

    This is practical when you air rooms. When you pull the blue clip back, the head can be set at 0 and it doesn’t forget your preferred temp. range. 

    Protecting windows so you save heat 

    Most focus on creating heat and not saving the one they already have. The biggest source of heat loss in a building is the window. When you add a rolled towel to the window, you can improve heat preservation and increase your productivity and comfort.

    Setting the ambiance 

    The mind is very powerful when it comes to comfort. When you set the right ambiance using a cozy pillow on your chair, a candle, or even a fluffy rug under the feet, you can make the body feel like it is warmer than it is.

  • How to Improve sleep quality

    Sleep is an essential aspect of our lives, and it plays a significant role in our physical and mental health. A good night’s sleep is essential for our well-being, and it is essential to ensure that we get enough quality sleep every night. However, in today’s fast-paced world, it can be challenging to get enough sleep, let alone ensure that the sleep we get is of good quality. Poor sleep quality can lead to a host of problems, including daytime fatigue, decreased concentration, mood swings, and a weakened immune system. Fortunately, there are several ways in which we can improve our sleep quality, and in this article, we will explore some of the most effective methods.

    1. Establish a regular sleep schedule
    One of the most effective ways to improve sleep quality is to establish a regular sleep schedule. Our bodies have an internal clock, which regulates our sleep-wake cycle, and it is important to keep this clock in sync by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps to regulate our body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and can improve the quality of our sleep. Check out the best mattress brands here

    2. Create a relaxing sleep environment
    Creating a relaxing sleep environment can also help to improve sleep quality. The bedroom should be cool, dark, and quiet, with comfortable bedding and a supportive mattress. It is also important to remove any distractions, such as electronic devices or a television, from the bedroom. These devices emit blue light, which can suppress the production of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep.

    3. Practice good sleep hygiene
    Practicing good sleep hygiene is another effective way to improve sleep quality. This includes establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, such as taking a warm bath or reading a book, and avoiding stimulating activities before bed, such as watching television or using electronic devices. It is also important to avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol before bedtime, as these can interfere with sleep.

    The best family dentist in Batavia IL also adds that incorporating tooth brushing into your nightly routine helps signal your body that it’s time to wind down and prepare for sleep, promoting better overall sleep hygiene and well-being.

    4. Exercise regularly
    Regular exercise has been shown to improve sleep quality, and it can also help to reduce stress and anxiety, which can interfere with sleep. It is important to avoid exercising too close to bedtime, however, as this can have a stimulating effect on the body and make it difficult to fall asleep.

    5. Manage stress and anxiety
    Stress and anxiety can have a significant impact on sleep quality, and it is important to find ways to manage these feelings. This can include relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga, or seeking professional help if the stress or anxiety is severe.

    6. Avoid napping during the day
    While napping can be tempting, especially if we are feeling tired during the day, it can interfere with sleep quality at night. It is important to avoid napping during the day, or to limit naps to no more than 20 minutes.

    7. Avoid large meals before bedtime
    Eating a large meal before bedtime can interfere with sleep quality, as the body is working to digest the food instead of relaxing and preparing for sleep. It is important to avoid large meals before bedtime and to eat a light snack if needed.

    8. Limit exposure to blue light
    As mentioned earlier, blue light from electronic devices can interfere with the production of melatonin, which can interfere with sleep. It is important to limit exposure to blue light before bedtime, by avoiding electronic devices or using blue light blocking glasses.

    9. Consider natural sleep aids
    There are several natural sleep aids that can help to improve sleep quality, such as chamomile tea, lavender essential oil, and valerian root. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using any natural sleep aids, however, as they may interact with medications or have other side effects.

  • A Guide to Looking After a Hammock

    Hammocks are a great way to relax and unwind in your backyard, on a camping trip, or even in your home. But with so many different types of hammocks available, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your needs. In this article, we’ll discuss the factors you should consider when choosing a hammock and give you some tips to help you make the best decision.

    Purpose

    The first thing you should consider when choosing a hammock is what you will be using it for. If you plan to use it for camping or backpacking, you’ll want a lightweight, compact hammock that is easy to transport. If you’re using it for your backyard, you can choose a larger, more comfortable hammock with a stand or hooks to hang it from.

    Size

    The size of your hammock will depend on your personal preferences and the space available to you. If you’re taller or plan to share your hammock with someone else, you may want a larger size to ensure you have enough room to stretch out comfortably. If you have limited space, you may want to consider a smaller size or a hammock that can be easily packed away when not in use.

    Material

    The material of your hammock will determine its durability, weight, and comfort. There are several materials to choose from, including cotton, nylon, and polyester. Cotton is soft and comfortable, but can be heavy and take longer to dry. Nylon and polyester are lightweight and quick-drying, but may not be as comfortable as cotton.

    Suspension System

    The suspension system is what holds your hammock in place and determines how easy it is to set up and take down. There are two main types of suspension systems: rope and straps. Rope is traditional and often comes with the hammock, but can be difficult to adjust and may damage trees. Straps are more versatile and can be used on various surfaces without causing damage.

    Weight Capacity

    The weight capacity of your hammock is important to ensure it can safely support you and anyone else who may use it. Most hammocks have a weight capacity of 250-500 pounds, but it’s always best to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure you’re within the weight limit.

    Accessories

    There are several accessories you can purchase to enhance your hammock experience, including a bug net, rainfly, and underquilt. If you plan to use your hammock for camping or backpacking, you may want to consider purchasing these accessories to ensure you’re comfortable and protected from the elements.

    Price

    Hammocks can vary in price from less than $50 to several hundred dollars. While you don’t necessarily need to spend a lot of money to get a quality hammock, it’s important to consider the features you need and the quality of the materials to ensure you’re getting a hammock that will last. Here’s a guide to hammock care

    Brand Reputation

    Finally, it’s important to consider the reputation of the brand you’re purchasing from. Look for brands that have a history of producing quality hammocks and providing excellent customer service. You can also read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the quality of the product and the level of customer satisfaction.

    In conclusion, choosing a hammock can be overwhelming, but considering the factors we’ve discussed will help you make an informed decision. Remember to consider the purpose, size, material, suspension system, weight capacity, accessories, price, and brand reputation when choosing a hammock. With a little research and consideration, you’ll be able to find the perfect hammock to relax and unwind in. If you’re interested in better sleep, then try this helpful buying guide