Author: Igor

  • How to Benefit From Personal Training

    If you’re looking to get fit, a personal trainer can help. The best personal trainers of certified by ASFA and works to help clients one-on-one by providing fitness instruction and advice. You can hire your own private trainer or join a gym where trainers are available for hire. There are many benefits of having personal training. Here are a few ways thats you can benefit from personal training: 

    Photo by Bruno Bueno

    Personal Training Focuses on You

    Personal training is a great option for those who want to get in shape but may not have the time or resources to do so on their own. Personal trainers are trained professionals who work one-on-one with clients to help them reach their fitness goals.

    Because they focus solely on you, your needs, and your goals, personal trainers can help you achieve success more quickly than if you were to try it on your own.

    Personal Trainers Can Help You Meet Your Fitness Goals

    Personal trainers can help you reach your fitness goals. Personal trainers work with clients to set and meet specific fitness goals, whether that’s losing weight, gaining muscle, or improving endurance. You may also have a nutritionist or other health professional on board who will help you develop a healthy meal plan and make sure that you stay on track with it.

    Personal trainers can also help maintain your fitness after the program is over. Once the initial goal has been reached and maintained for some time, personal trainers will recommend ways to continue staying fit without needing their assistance as often. In addition, they can provide tips and tricks for keeping up with an exercise routine when life gets busy.

    Personal Trainers Offer Accountability

    The benefits of hiring a personal trainer for your fitness goals may seem obvious, but it’s important to consider how they can help you. Personal trainers offer accountability and motivation to keep you from giving up when things get tough. 

    They can provide guidance and act as role models for healthy living. In addition, since trainers usually have nutrition experience, they can help you create meal plans that will fit into your lifestyle.

     Finally, if your schedule doesn’t allow for regular visits with a trainer, at least consider signing up for one-on-one sessions once or twice per week; this will be enough time to benefit from their expertise while still having time available in the rest of your day to work out on your own schedule!

    Conclusion

    A personal trainer can be the perfect solution if you’re looking for a way to stay on track with your fitness goals. Personal training is tailored to each client’s needs and focuses on achieving realistic and attainable goals. 

    A personal trainer provides accountability by helping to keep clients accountable for their actions and progress and providing education about what exercises will benefit them most in meeting their fitness goals. So, if you’re looking for a personal trainer for your workout, you know you can get the help you need.

  • Backyard Pergolas: 5 Practical Uses

    Extending your indoor living space into the outdoors is really simple to do. A patio, fire pit, pool, paver walkways, and a garden are just a few of the ways that your outdoor space can become a more usable and functional part of your home. Being able to enjoy the outdoors gives you more options for entertaining guests, personal leisure time, and it can even promote better health and reduce stress. Pergolas are another great way to dress up your backyard. Not only are they beautifully simple structures, but they’re also surprisingly functional. Their slim profile and open roof have made them a prized stand-out architectural piece for thousands of years. There are many practical uses for backyard pergolas, and this article will cover some of them. If you’re looking for reasons to install a pergola or spruce up the one you currently have, keep reading. 

    1. Comfy Seating Area

    Adding a 12 x 16 pergola for yard seating can make for a beautiful backyard centerpiece. Creating a shaded area for outdoor seating is perhaps the most popular use for a pergola.They allow for sunlight to penetrate the slatted roof while providing enough shade to make the area more comfortable and cooler in the warmer months. You can use it with your patio or deck or just out in the yard wherever it pleases you most. Pergolas do a lot to tie a space together while adding some visual dimension to a flat space. The seating area you create can include lounge chairs, armchairs, hanging pod seating, outdoor tables, and more. How you arrange your seating and the type of seating is totally up to you. For larger gatherings or when you want a more enclosed feel, pavilions can serve as an excellent complement to pergolas. Together, pergolas & pavilions tend to provide flexible options for designing outdoor seating areas that balance openness with shelter, depending on the mood or occasion. When placing a pergola near a heavily wooded area or a steep drop-off, you may want to consider adding slats to whichever side could lead to potential problems.

    2. Pool Accessory

    The versatility of a pergola as a pool accessory is hard to beat. They’re beautiful and give your pool an elegant and resort feeling. Whether you choose a stained wood or colored vinyl, pairing your pergola to your in-ground pool decor is going to stand out. It’s nice to have a relaxing area to lounge poolside, entertain guests, and get out of the sun. It will add some vertical texture to the hardscape while being a fully functional piece, providing some much needed shade. What makes pergolas such a great fit for a pool is its ability to blend into the natural surroundings. Adding climbing or hanging plants are a great way to even better integrate your pergola and nature. A pergola is even the perfect place to grill poolside. You can even attach speakers or a television to it to add to teh entertainment factor.

    3. Outdoor Kitchen or Bar Covering

    Outdoor cooking spaces are always going to be in style for a foodie who enjoys the outdoors. Not only are they useful, but they are also more beautiful when paired with a pergola. Even though food always brings people together, the pergola may be a strong contender for the focal point of the backyard. Whether you opt for a traditional flat roof or a more eye-catching arced roof, they’re destined to change the entire mood of the backyard. In fact, you might even think that you’re in the yard of a brand new home. Depending on the size pergola you choose, it will either be the focal point of your outdoor kitchen or bar, or just provide the framework for the boundaries of your great new cooking space. Either way, your yard is always going to be the preferred gathering place amongst family and friends. 

    4. Hot Tub Covering

    Hot tubs are great for relaxing after a long day. And when you add a pergola to the ambiance of the hot tub and your backyard, you’re in for an absolute treat. If you’re looking to add a little more privacy to your hot tub with a pergola, simply take advantage of some custom add-ons. You can add a retractable sidewall or two, incorporate a lattice to one of the sides, or add a half wall. Little touches like these or even sheer curtains can dress up your pergola quite nicely to make your hot tub feel like something at a spa. It’s an attractive finishing to a luxurious soak. Other ways to create a different vibe around your pergola and hot tub pairing include string lights, television, or stereo speakers. There’s no limit to how you dress your pergola. Smaller pergolas will frame the hot tub, and larger ones will create a more private space for you and guests. 

    5. Privacy Solution

    Everyone needs a little privacy, and a pergola is one of the more practuacl solutions to creating a little more privacy in your backyard. And yet, it is one of the least utilized privacy options. It may seem counterintuitive to choose a pergola as a privacy solution because they are typically open, but they do provide some shelter and make it more difficult for prying eyes to get a good look. Adding a privacy wall or two to a pergola or curtains or retractable shades will give you the extra privacy you’re craving. You have the ability to make it as private as you need it to be while also providing some structure to your backyard. A privacy fence is nice, but a stylish and classic pergola is going to do more for your backyard space than any fence will. Alternatively, you can add fast growing shrubs or bushes nearby to further seclude the area.

    There’s a lot that can be said about backyard pergolas. They are truly functional pieces of outdoor excellence. You can have one constructed to meet your needs or you can buy a kit. If you go the custom route you’ll be able to pick the material, post design, paint or stain color, and floor type. There are other add-ons that you can include to make your pergola fit your needs however practical or aesthetic they are.

  • 8 ways to protect your legal interests as an individual?

    Ever found yourself caught up in legal technicalities, scratching your head, wondering what it all means? You’re not alone. Understanding our legal rights and responsibilities isn’t just for big corporations. It’s something we all should care about, whether it’s signing a new contract, dealing with property, or just going about our daily lives. So let’s dive into this together and unravel the mystery of how to protect our legal interests.

    Know Your Rights

    So, you think law is just for lawyers? Think again. Getting to know your basic legal rights is like having an umbrella on a rainy day – it’s essential. Whether at work, signing a lease, or making a purchase, knowing what you can and cannot do helps you steer clear of trouble. It’s not about becoming a legal expert overnight but being aware enough to spot when something’s not quite right.

    Consult with Professionals

    Imagine you’re involved in a lawsuit, and legal issues are the confusing twists and turns. Now, wouldn’t it be handy to have a guide? That’s what professionals like personal injury claim attorneys are there for. Whether you’ve been in an accident or you’re dealing with a complex contract, seeking professional advice is like having a GPS for the legal world. They’ll navigate the twists and turns, help you understand your rights, and guide you through the process. It’s not just smart; it’s essential.

    Keeping Proper Documentation

    Let’s talk about paperwork. I know, it sounds boring, but hang on – it’s more crucial than you think. Ever heard the phrase, “If it’s not written down, it didn’t happen?” Well, that’s often how legal matters work. Receipts, contracts, emails, even text messages – act as evidence and can be your best friends when you need to prove something. Think of them as pieces of a puzzle, fitting together to tell your story. So next time you casually agree to something verbally, remember to jot it down. This evidence might just save the day.

    Using Technology Wisely

    Tech-savvy? Great! But when it comes to legal matters, it has two sides to the situation. Sure, technology makes things easier, from signing contracts online to keeping digital records. But beware of the dark side – oversharing, weak passwords, and scams lurk around every corner. Use technology, but be wise about it. Update those passwords, think twice before you tweet, and remember, if something online seems too good to be true, it probably is.

    Protecting Personal and Intellectual Property

    Your ideas, your creations, your stuff – it’s all valuable, and it’s all worth a fortune. Let’s have a chat about something that’s close to home: your privacy. You know that old saying about keeping your cards close to your chest? In the digital age, that’s more vital than ever. Your personal information is like gold, and there are plenty of pirates out there ready to plunder. So, what’s the game plan? Be mindful of what you share online, keep those passwords strong and unique, and be wary of suspicious emails and links. It’s all about being a smart navigator in the vast ocean of the internet. Your privacy is a treasure; guard it well! 

    Keeping Proper Documentation

    Let’s shift gears a bit and talk about those piles of papers that might be gathering dust in your drawers. Yes, those contracts, agreements, receipts, and whatnot. Seems boring, right? But here’s the kicker – those papers can be your lifeline if legal trouble comes knocking. Whether it’s a rental agreement, a contract with your employer, or even a receipt for a major purchase, they’re all pieces of a puzzle that can paint a clear picture if you need to defend your legal interests. If you’ve been injured by a defective product, having proper documentation can be key in securing the help of an experienced New York product liability lawyer to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. In these cases, a lawyer can analyze your records, identify key evidence, and build a strong case to hold the responsible parties accountable. Without the right paperwork, your chances of success could be significantly reduced. So, file them neatly, and know where they are. They might just save your bacon one day!  

    Mind Your Social Media

    Alright, now let’s take a look into something we all love and hate – social media. It’s a good place to connect and share, but it can also be a legal minefield. A tweet, a status update, or even a photo can sometimes spell trouble. Remember, the online world isn’t some lawless land; the same rules apply there as in the real world. Be mindful of what you post, especially if it concerns others. It’s all about being responsible and treating virtual space with the same respect as you would in person. It’s simple: think before you post, and you’ll be golden! 

    Utilize Legal Agreements and Contracts

    Contracts and agreements aren’t just for big businesses; they’re essential tools for everyone. From freelancers to people hiring a nanny, written agreements provide clarity and protection. Think of it as setting ground rules in black and white. This way, everyone knows what’s expected of them. Have a lawyer review them to ensure they cover all the bases, and don’t be afraid to insist on a written contract even in seemingly informal situations. A handshake’s great, but a signed paper? That’s a safety net.

    Final Word

    Protecting your interests legally is perhaps one of the greatest skills to learn today. From avoiding scams and guarding private information, it is always good practice to stay in the know. We hope this article helps you, and can illuminate some aspects that you can focus on.

  • Olivia Fiddes

    Olivia Fiddes

    Originally from Edinburgh, Olivia Fiddes makes ceramic objects and homeware from her studio in London. What makes Olivia’s pieces unique is that they’re solely made using meticulous hand building techniques. We chatted with Olivia to find out more about her interest in ceramics, her design process and future plans.

    www.oliviafiddes.com

    Product photos by Ben Seeley and studio photos by Alex McLuckie.

    Future-Positive-Olivia-Fiddes-1-Low

    When did you get interested in ceramics? Do you remember the first piece you ever made?

    My first experience of ceramics was during A Level Art, when our very optimistic teachers asked everyone in the year to make a life-size self-portrait bust out of clay. This had very mixed results. Mine was OK but didn’t look anything like me. My mum has it looking at you right when you walk into the house and puts tinsel on ‘my’ head at Christmas. Whilst this didn’t go amazingly, I loved the process and working with clay. A few years later I started pottery evening classes because of my interest in clay and it went from there.

    Future-Positive-Olivia-Fiddes-3-Low

    All of your pieces are handmade, please tell us a little bit more about this process and the different techniques you use.

    Everything I make is ‘hand built’ which basically means, in pottery terms, that I don’t use a wheel, moulds, or slip cast. This is quite a traditional way of working as it requires very little equipment. I mainly use my hands and just some small tools. Some of the techniques I use are: coiling, slab building and pinching. These are techniques that you can be taught in a few evening classes but I suppose the hard bit is getting pieces how you want them, being neat, and making two pieces that look the same. It’s a slower method of working but I think it’s this that makes the pieces unique and more expressive. Everything is a one-off when it is hand built which I love.

    Future-Positive-Olivia-Fiddes-4-Low

    You use reclaimed clay to create your pieces, are there other measures you take to ensure your business is as sustainable as possible?

    It’s important to me that I don’t waste. Especially with clay, there is no excuse for it as you can always give it new life. That is why I use the reclaimed clay from the other ceramicists at my studio. The shared studio I’m a part of, Turning Earth, is very environmentally conscious, from the energy companies they use and the packaging we provide, so it works nicely.

    5% of the profits from each piece you sell go to Survival International, could you tell us a little bit about this organisation?

    It’s a charity I used to work for and have been very passionate about for years so I wanted to make it an in-built part of what I do. Survival campaigns for tribal (or indigenous) peoples’ rights which are often disrespected. I find it crazy that to this day tribal peoples are regarded as ‘primitive’ or ‘other’ when it simply isn’t the case. It’s these discriminatory attitudes that enable people, governments and companies to continuously take advantage of them and violate their human rights. Hopefully my spreading the word and contributing, even in a very small way, will mean one or two people will change their perception about tribal peoples. Please visit their website.

    Future-Positive-Olivia-Fiddes-2-Low

    Do you think there has been a change in the way people consume design in the recent years?

    I think being able to make your own website and online shop quite easily and cheaply has really changed the way people consume design. I think people are now much more likely to buy from independent designers or businesses because it’s much more common and trustworthy – which is great! Although, I think things like Pinterest and Instagram mean that massive waves of design and style trends sweep internationally now. You often see the same things over and over again but this is a good incentive to stay yourself and different.

    Future-Positive-Olivia-Fiddes-5-Low

    What are your plans for the upcoming months?

    I’ve got a lovely series of light coloured pieces coming out on Bonjour Supermarket, curated by Johanna Tagada. I’m so delighted to have been able to contribute to this beautiful shop. We’ve also got some new collaborative ideas up our sleeves.

    I will be going to LA for a couple of weeks at the end of the month for some work and a bit of lazing around! When I get back I’ll be exhibiting work as part London Design Festival (19th-24th September). My studio, Turning Earth, will be holding another incredible sale to coincide with the end of this on Sunday 25th September which I’ll be taking part in too. I hope you’ll join us!

    After this, I’ll be working on special ranges for some shops and also organising some hand building workshops which are due to start in October in London and Leicestershire. I’ll be posting info and dates for these on my website and Instagram soon. Come along and try your hand at ceramics yourself!

  • How to Enjoy Stockholm to the Max

    Sweden is a country with so much to offer visitors, especially when you’re visiting the country for the first time. Near the top of the list of things Sweden has to offer is undoubtedly its capital city, Stockholm. It’s a vibrant city that’s full of life, art and culture. You’ll never be short of things to do or see, so maybe this should be your next city break destination.

    If you’re going to head to Stockholm, though, you first need to know a bit about how to enjoy it to the max. Apart from knowing what to pack in your suitcase, there are lots of things that you won’t want to miss out on while you’re there, and we’re going to run through some of the most important things you’ll want to see and do during your time there. Read on to find out more.

    Head to the Top of City Hall’s Tower for the Best Views

    If you want the very best views over Stockholm, you should head to the top of the tower that’s connected to the City Hall, or the Stadshuset in Swedish. Although you do have to pay to get to the top of the tower, you’ll be glad you paid for it. It’s an incredible panoramic view over the city. If you take your camera with you, you’ll get some incredible pictures of the city in its full glory.

    Explore the Old Town

    With narrow streets and cobblestone alleyways, it’s very easy to get lost in Stockholm’s Old Town, but that’s all part of the fun. Explore it for a full day and see everything it has to offer. It’s a part of the city that’s entirely unique and brimming with character. You certainly won’t want to miss out on this incredible part of Stockholm, so don’t fall into the trap of overlooking it.

    Take to Stockholm’s Hiking Trails

    You might not have been planning on going hiking when you decided to head to Stockholm, but it’s actually a great way to experience this location. Stockholm actually has three major hiking trails and they each offer something fantastic. If you love to explore and walk, make sure you hike at least one of them.

    Image Source

    Enjoy the Art Galleries and Museums

    The Moderna Museet is one of the best art galleries you’ll find anywhere in Scandinavia, and you should be sure to stop off there and have a look around while you’re in Stockholm. You should also see which art fairs are on while you’re in the city because there’s often a lot of great art to buy at these. Some people say the best art gallery in Stockholm is actually the subway system. Its long passages are adorned with incredible art and it’s free to browse them; there are even tours available.

    Tour the Swedish Parliament for Free

    Sweden is famed for its long-standing and tolerant social democracy and if you’re interested in all things political, you should definitely take the time to visit the Swedish parliament, known as the Riksdag. It’s also possible to take advantage of one of the free tours that are offered there. They take place each weekend and start at 1:30pm during the winter and four times each weekday in the summer. It’s a lengthy and fascinating tour led by people who really know what they’re talking about.

    Workout at an Outdoor Gym

    There are 38 outdoor gyms in Stockholm alone. They’re something of a revelation in Sweden and many people enjoy spending time outdoors working out. If you’re usually a regular at the gym and you don’t want to lose your gains while you’re traveling, you should visit one of Stockholm’s outdoor gyms and workout in a context that you’ve probably never worked out in before.

    Spend Time on Stockholm’s Popular Beaches

    Not many people realise this if they’ve never been to Stockholm before, but there are actually a range of great beaches in Stockholm and you should be sure to make the most of them when you’re there. The best include Långholmsbadet and Smedsuddsbadet, but there are many others too. There’s also a lot of very beautiful and picturesque canals that you can explore. Be sure to take the time to do that.

    Stockholm has so much to offer and if you haven’t yet taken the time to visit the Swedish capital, you should think about planning your trip there. It’s a city with so much to offer in terms of culture, and the Swedish people are great too. It’s the perfect place to start when visiting Sweden for the first time.