Embrace 2021 Issue 4

Financial Horizons

Tea Ceremonies & Rituals

Ikebana Zen

Freelancer Workflow

Healthy Negativity

The Tokyo Olympics

Team Embrace wish all athletes competing at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics & Tokyo 2020 Paralympics every success.

GO OUT & TRY YOUR BEST 2 | Embrace

Refresh. Relax.

Uplift

With Summer Salt 24K Gold Blue Moon Face & Body Oil www.rosemarynaturopath.com.au

BUY ONLINE www.rosemarynaturopath.com.au/skin-care mickaylanaturopath@outlook.com 0427430562 Embrace | 3

This Issue proudly brings you

Photography/illustrations: Pexels, Unsplash, The Noun Project Cover Image: Linus Strandholm

Editor-in-Chief Jacqueline Hodges

Contributors

Freya Kassulke

Amy Leigh, Irina Mazalova, Mickayla Hosking, Joyclyn O’Neill, Zera’im Tanner Andrew Johnson

Editorial Enquiries

About Embrace

Designer

07 31 433 334 10 Ellenborough House, 126 Brisbane Street, Top of the Town, Ipswich, QLD 4305

Embrace creates an attainable Shangri-La for women where they can live, prosper, and enjoy a healthy and balanced state of tranquillity.

10 ELLEN MEDIA Embrace Magazine is published by 10 Ellen Media (ABN: 23 645 770 350)

Our readers are women who are young, not only by their age but also within their heart and mind.

Articles express the opinions of the authors and not necessarily those of Embrace or 10Ellen Media. The Embrace privacy policy is located at https:// embracemag.co/privacy-policy/

Embrace offers engaging activities, inspiring ideas, entertaining stories, helpful informational tips, and everything that one needs to live and enjoy a well- balanced life.

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10 Ellen Media’s privacy notice can be read at: https://10ellenmedia.com/ privacy-policy/ 4 | Embrace

© Embrace Magazine 2021

Life is a majestic tapestry filled with people, experiences and emotions. Live life.

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SCRIB

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see www.em brace.co

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RIBE C S S

Embrace brings a fresh perspective on holistic wellness and healthy living.

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Embrace | 5

50 Feng Shui - Lighting

Wo rk

Grow

Contents Connect

ct e n n C o

52 Love and Long Distant

Work 84 Freelancer - Build your Base 86 Tech Stack - Managing Workflows

92 The Tokyo 2020 Olympics 96 Salad, Soup & Smoothie - Soba, Miso, & Matcha

tain

Belong

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69 Your Financial Horizons

el o n g

Grow

8 Letter from the Editor

Bou nce

116 Embrace Life Wheel 119 About 10 Ellen

Ca re Bounce 12 Sliding Cross Country 14 Too Cold to Move

Care

Learn

20 Healthy Negativity 26 Tea Ceremonies & Rituals

Learn 34 Finding your Ikigai 38 Food for Thought - Elderberry 40 In Plain View – The Arts 42 Puzzles

Re

Reflect 106 Total Recall: What your Dreams Mean 112 Ikebana: Zen, Expression & Emotion

Sustain 58 A Small Hero - Tiny Homes Part 2 62 Interior Harmony with Irina

ct fle Su

Letter from the Editor Life is truly a majestic tapestry. It is filled with the people we know and love, with our experiences good and bad, our dreams and ambitions, and it is interwoven with our dreams, ambitions, and emotions. And as I welcome you and invite you to read this our fourth issue of 2021, we are excitedly waiting to see our athletes complete at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

And like a tapestry our lives are completed and filled by participating in life, developing our relationships with others, finding our purpose, being true to our emotions, challenging ourselves to be complete, and living our lives as we must. I am wholeheartedly excited for our young athletes whose years of determination and training will have their time to shine compete at these Olympics.

And our young athletes’ tapestry will be completed by the threads they weave into their lives, their successes and failures, their wins and losses, and the memories that they create. As they try their best.

It is an unusual and remarkable Olympic journey that our young athletes will undertake. It will be a hollow arena. There will be no spectators, no supporters, no jeering from the opposition. Those coming straight from training camps will be able to hone-in on their determination to win. Yet, most will have competed in front of crowds, some even drawing their energy from the enthusiastic supporters.

The hollow areas remind me that we do not walk alone, we need people in our lives to help us complete our own tapestry. Every person whom we meet adds to that tapestry. Some interactions will be unpleasant but that is okay. The differences in opinion, the negative emotions are a part of who we are. And it is the negative experiences and emotions that illuminate the positive experiences even more.

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And so for this issue we bring you stories and articles about the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Japanese culture, and long distance relationships. We bring you articles of reflection and introspection, to find your purpose, to embrace your negative emotions, and embrace the complete you.

Jacqueline Hodges

Embrace | 9

Taking care of your body for optimal functioning.

Bounce When women take care of their health, they become their best friend.

Maya Angelou

Cross country skiing is not just a fitness alternative it’s a sport.

Whether you are young, old or somewhere in between, cross country skiing is a great way to get you out of the armchair, back outdoors and have some fun.

12 | Embrace

Sliding Cross Country

C

ross Country Skiing is great way to explore the flatter terrain on mountain trails, stay fit over winter, and enjoy the scenery all at your own pace. It is an ancient sport evolving from the practical mode of transport thought to have been developed by the Scandinavian peoples several millennia ago. Although there has been developments and some changes to the equipment, little has changed in cross country skiing in that time.

Cross Country Skiing is a full body aerobic exercise and the gliding will keep you fit over the winter months. Unlike alpine skiing where the force of gravity propels you down the slope, when cross country skiing you will be propelling yourself across the terrain. Flat terrain definitely doesn’t mean easier, if fact you will be working harder to slide forward.

There are two main styles of cross country skiing, classic cross country stride skiing and skate skiing. Most beginners will start out with stride skiing, which is the easiest to learn.

The classic style is a diagonal stride similar to walking. One foot slides forward with the opposite arm extended for balance. The next foot follows. Skate skiing is similar in form to ice skating where the ski is diagonally forward.

Although similar to alpine skiing the equipment does differ. Classic cross-country touring skis are stiff, narrow, and lightweight with a grip zone underneath to prevent you slipping backwards.

Race skis are for higher performance and will give you a better workout. Skate skis are similar to the classic ski but shorter. You will also need to consider the boots and bindings relevant to the type of skiing you are going to do.

It will also improve your cardiovascular health.

As a weight bearing activity, it’s good for building muscle and strengthening your bones, yet being on the snow is it easy on your joints.

Overall you will improve both your physical fitness and your endurance levels. Added to this being in nature and exercising if a pleasant way to spend a sunny winter’s day, and you might find your stress levels improve too.

If you are not that fit don’t be frightened off, as there is a low-stress, healthy alternative for young and old. As a beginner, you won’t need to start on the race skiing level. Simply choose a pace that suits you, but make sure that you have a buddy skiing with you for safety and check with your doctor if your fitness and health levels are compromised. Once you start you will find your speed and coordination improves with practice.

You will find cross country skiing at most ski resorts in Victoria and New South Wales. Many will have guided tours, cross country classes, and when your ready you might like to try competitive cross country and take it to the next level.

So whether you are young or old, extremely fit or just starting out on your fitness program, cross country skiing is a great way to build your fitness, increase your speed, improve your body strength, get outdoors, see nature, enjoy the mountain views, and have fun with your friends and training buddies.

Cross country skiing is a full body workout , sure to improve your fitness, cross. You use your arms, your back, your legs, hips and glutes and your core. It’s also an efficient workout, According to the Journal of Sports Medicine, in one hour you will burn as many kilojoules as two and a half hours of alpine skiing.

Embrace | 13

Too Cold to Move

If

you are feeling too cold to move, then you are not alone this winter! After all, its cold, its windy, its raining, the days are shorter, and your feeling miserable. It’s ok to feel a little miserable as the winter sets in. But if you are feeling the annual winter blues, are lethargic, sleeping more, and perhaps even be a little moody this winter, then its time for you to get motivated and feeling good. But you have to choose. You can either get out and get active or snuggle up all nice and cosy under the blankets.

If your winter blues feeling is lingering you may be suffering winter onset SAD Seasonal Affective Disorder. If you are concerned that you or someone you know may be a SAD sufferer please contact a support line. Check this list from the Mayo Clinic for some of the signs and symptoms of SAD:

Of course not everybody feels miserable when its cold. Some people just love the white wintery wonderland, that frost on the lawn, and those wonderful hauntingly moody overcast days. They know the snow is coming and It’s a chance to take the skis, boards, toboggans and snow gear out of the attic and get out on the slopes. Skiers love the thrill and speed as they descend the run and feeling the chill on this cheeks. But if your not a fan of the cold days, we’ve made a list of four things you can do to lift your spirits.

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•

Feeling depressed most of the day, nearly every day

•

Losing interest in activities you once enjoyed

•

Having low energy

•

Having problems with sleeping

•

Experiencing changes in your appetite or weight

•

Feeling sluggish or agitated

•

Having difficulty concentrating

•

Feeling hopeless, worthless or guilty

•

Having frequent thoughts of death or suicide

Natural Sunlight!

Phone a Friend!

There’s nothing like feeling the sunrays shining down on a gloriously bright wintery day. The sunlight boosts your serotonin and those clear blue skies provide an awesome lift and will definitely be beckoning you out of the chair.

Take a short brisk walk around the park or enjoy your coffee alfresco. Remember to show some skin to the sun to capture the vitamin D. If it is too cold outdoors, open the blinds and sit by the window and watch the world while you are snug.

Life was not meant to be lived alone. We are surrounded by beautiful people, friends, family, and colleagues. If you are feeling the winter blues call your friends or colleagues and make a date to do something. You could be going for a walk, watching a movie, visiting the art gallery, set out on a gruelling cross country ski challenge, or could organise a Tokyo 2020 Olympics themed watch party. Whatever you are plan to do, get moving with friends. Its sure to be fun.

Get Moving!

Snuggle Up!

Regular exercise is a powerful way to fight the winter blues, especially if you are able to exercise outside in the natural daylight. Regular exercise is a great way to boost all those feelgood brain chemicals. Find exercises that are rhythmic to get into a flow. You might like walking, tai chi or swimming. Exercise can also help to improve your sleep and boost your self-esteem.

Try to get in at least 30 minutes of activity each day. If you need a friend for motivation your four legged friend will enjoy the walk. You will soon be blasting those blues away and making connection with others as well.

Oh! And by the way, it is ok to relax! You don’t need to be fighting the blistering cold by exercising when its sub-zero outside. Winter, after all offers great weather to simply stay in bed, snuggle up, get warm and cosy and tell your partner how much you love them. And it you are staying under the doona why not learn more about each other, by sharing more of yourself you will strengthen the bonds of your relationship. If you don’t have that special someone, treat yourself. Sometimes a cosy doona, a cup of hot chocolate and a book or podcast is all you need.

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16 | Embrace

Exercise to Bounce Take 5 minutes to think about your health, fitness and wellbeing.

When ready, jot down some points for your personal journey. Are you happy with where you are?

We all have the ability to bounce. Complete this plan to help you grow your healthy self.

What do I want to achieve?

How will I achieve these goals?

When do I want to achieve these goals?

Embrace | 17

18 | Embrace

Understanding your feelings and how to handle your emotions to grow and learn from experiences.

Care If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete.

Jack Kornfield

Embrace | 19

Let’s Have Some Healthy Negativity

I

bought into all the upbeat expressions, the positive thinking, the eternal optimism, the constant smile, the denial of anger, of fear, of rage. I was drawn to all the pretty things, the beautiful beginnings, and the happy endings. Now I am not one to really get that angry, as I have suppressed those emotions for such a long time. I had read about the damaging effects of negativity. Now those negative emotions and feelings are almost foreign, alienated somewhere in time past.

Toxic Positivity

But now I find I was wrong. I recently saw a video post by the World Economic Forum that opened my eyes to a new way of thinking about negativity. This thinking made me realise that as a whole person, we have a generous array of thoughts, feelings and emotions that are positive, negative or somewhere in between. But more than that, it made me realise that we are not only allowed to experience and express those negative feelings and emotions but we should.

The worst part of understanding toxic positivity, it that is undermines or undervalues not only ourselves but other people. When we impose our upbeat positivity upon someone else, albeit we are probably trying to lift their spirits, we are in fact denying them of their personal freedom of expression.

Psychotherapist, Tori Rodriguez believes that our negative thoughts and feelings are as important as the positive in helping to make sense of our lives.

“Attempting to suppress thoughts can backfire and even diminish our sense of contentment.”

– Tori Rodriguez

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”Be grateful for what you have.” “It could be worse.” “Look on the right side.” “Everything happens for a reason.”

These expressions are generally our way of dealing with someone else’s miseries. We are trying to lift someone from their problems. Being positive is good but toxic positivity is not. Toxic positivity is the assumption that no matter how someone is feeling they should maintain a positive outlook and deny their real emotional experiences.

Minimising or invalidating someone’s negative experiences may actually cause undue stress, isolation, shame, mental illness, and may even lead to health issues. It may also impact our personal life. Psychologist Jamie Long and Hypnotherapist Samara Quintero believe that if you are suppressing your negative feelings, you are curating a fake emotional world and by not being yourself you will attract counterfeit intimacy and superficial friendships.

I have always had this notion that “we are all one people” and was appalled that we still have labels of “white” and “of colour”. It never occurred to me that in saying this to people of colour that I was denying them the right to feel pain, to realise their hurt, or to express their feelings. So while I may have to adjust my way of dealing with others, I am also now adjusting how I perceive myself. I am learning to reframe my positivity.

“Today I choose life. Every morning when I wake up I can choose joy, happiness, negativity, pain... To feel the freedom that comes from being able to continue to make mistakes and choices - today I choose to feel life, not to deny my humanity but embrace it.”

– Kevyn Aucoin Embrace | 21

Toxic Positivity

Non-Toxic Acceptance & Validation

Don’t worry, be happy!

You seem really stressed, anything I can do?

Everything will work out in the end.

This is really hard, I’m thinking of you.

Positive vibes only!

I’m here for you both good and bad.

If I can do it, so can you!

Everyone is different with different abilities and limitations, and that’s okay

Everything happens for a reason.

You did draw the short straw. How can I support you during this

It could be worse.

That sucks. I’m really sorry you’re going through this.

Healthy Negativity Over the last twelve or so months we have been in a pandemic, we have been in and out of lockdown, we have been out of work and scraping by. This is perhaps the worst negative experience we have in living memory. When you think about it, being positive can be draining, it takes constant effort. Particularly when you are suffering. So be brave. It’s Ok to not be Ok. Understanding the negative experiences the pandemic brought, elevated our sense of fear, encouraged us to wear our masks, lead us to the testing clinics, and compelled us to have vaccinations. It was in accepting and acknowledging our negative experience that we made sense of what was happening around us.

The pandemic is a strong example, and one we are living with but not a typical example.

A typical example might be fighting with your partner, loathing your work, despising the ageing processes, or getting cancer. Some experiences we can deal with easier than others. And that is also Ok!

22 | Embrace

“A thought is just a thought and a feeling just a feeling, nothing more.”

– Tori Rodriguez

“But feelings can’t be ignored, no matter how unjust or ungrateful they seem.”

- Anne Frank

Finding the Balance Remember that old expression “You have to take the good with the bad.” It once seemed folkloric.

Well, it seems there is actually scientific support that gives it new meaning. Research by Professors Jonathan M. Adler and Hal E. Hershfield suggests that it is the mix of feelings that may help us to understand bad experiencers. Adler and Hershfield suggest “taking the good and the bad together may detoxify the bad experiences, allowing you to make meaning out of them in a way that supports psychological well-being,”

“Your emotions make you human. Even the unpleasant ones have a purpose.

Don’t lock them away. If you ignore them, they just get louder and angrier.”

- Sabaa Tahir So, rather than suppressing the negative experiences, aim for balance and accept both positive and negative feelings, acknowledge them and think about how they make you feel. If you are feeling overwhelmed talk to someone, write a journal note, or try some mindfulness exercises.

So now go face the worId anew, revel in your authentic experiences

Embrace | 23

IS THIS YOU? Drag yourself to work Irritable and impatient Lack motivation & energy Drink to relieve stress Eat on the run

Choose YOU. A healthier and realistic lifestyle awaits you, so with

you:

break free from burnout

practice self care

get your Zing back!

YOUR

Thrive and Alive Program

Sally McGrath Founder, Health that Heals

24 | Embrace

www. h e a l t h t h a t h e a l s . c o m. a u healththatheals

E: sally@healththatheals.com.au M: 0433 411 580

Embrace | 25

Sitting under the covered bridge My twelve old teachers with me I simmer a pot of Uji spring 1 On the bedrock beside the stream; The sound you hear is not a lute the strain is from another realm, when you leave it will have washed away the dust of the mundane world.

Setting Up Shop by Tsuten Bridge I’ve packed my tools of trade among the fallen yellow leaves stoking the brazier with pine cones summoning a soft pine wind; I’m not concealing secret arts to speed you on to Sagehood once you transcend the flavor you’ll savor its true rich taste.

– Setting Up Shop at Tsuten Bridge. Baisao An ancient Japanese poem

Tea Ceremonies & Rituals

R

emember visiting your grandmother and being welcomed with “Fancy a cuppa?” or “Will I put the kettle on?” Something wonderfully calming and transcendental happens when pouring a cup of tea. Think about it! A warmth occurs.

Whether you are alone or with companions, tea brings a pleasant sensation and a feeling of tranquillity.

That pleasant sensation occurs, whether you are enjoying a god old cup of English black tea, or an Indian Assam, or Masala Chai, or a Russian caravan, or sipping on a cleansing Chinese black, white, green or aromatic cha or a refreshingly fruity tisane or a bitter yet refreshing Japanese black, green or matcha.

Perhaps it is this pleasant sensation and the feeling of satisfaction that led to the ritualization of formal tea ceremonies. And these rituals occur throughout the East and the West. Teas arrived in Europe in the 1500s and was introduced to Britain in the early 1600s. At that time tea was a luxurious commodity only partaken by the aristocrats and a the social elite. It was so special a reserve that it was kept under lock and key by the mistress of the house to be only be unlocked and served when entertaining.

No matter where you are in the world tea is a way to connect with people, In the west we enjoy morning tea, afternoon teas, and high teas. In other parts of the world there are tea ceremonies, rituals and rites. Tea leaves are read in fortune telling and have given rise to some superstitions. So come wih me and explore a few of these rituals, and superstitions.

India – Masala Chai India is the second largest grower of tea in the world and is famous for its black tea varieties, Assam and Darjeeling. Although there are other regional varieties. Another favourite is Masala Chai, a black tea made with a mix of spices. Masala tea is popular across the Indian subcontinent, and masala chai is consumed both in the morning and afternoons. The Karha spice base is a mix of ground ginger, cinnamon, cardamom pods, cinnamon, star anise, fennel seeds, peppercorn, nutmeg, cloves, honey and vanilla. The spice mixes differ regionally, with western India substituting the cloves and black pepper with lemongrass and the Kashmiri region blend green tea with almonds, cardamom, cinnamon, cloves, and saffron.

This spicy hot beverage is a brew of Indian black tea with a unique blend of spices, typically including cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, cardamom and pepper, although the recipe varies region to region.

Chai is consumed morning and afternoon by many Indian families, and is customarily the first thing offered to houseguests.

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China – The Art of Tea China is the largest producer of tea in the world, so it is no surprise that tea is consumed with all meals. There a six types of tea produced in China, being green, white, yellow, oolong, black, and dark tea. The type of tea produced is dependent upon the fermentation process. Green tea is the least fermented and dark tea the most fermented.

Traditionally Chinese New Year and Wedding Ceremonies are special occasions when formal tea rituals are observed.

The tea ceremony is a family ritual where the youngest members of the family serve the elder members of the family.

The eldest family members Mother and Father or Grandmother and Grandfather sit with family members sitting on each side to form an open circle or horseshoe.

The younger family members will pour a cup of tea one at time for each of the elders. At a wedding the bride and groom will offer the cup of tea to their family members. When tea is served, the recipient will tap their middle and/or index finger on the table to signal their appreciation.

Japan – The Way of Tea Japan is famous for its distinctly grassy, toasty, and nutty teas. There are many types of teas including, Sencha, Matcha, Genmaicha a green tea mixed with roasted rice, Mugicha a tea made from roasted barley, Sobacha a tea made with roasted buckwheat kernels, and Kombucha not the probiotic drink that we in the West are familiar with but a tea made with seaweed and broth.

The Japanese are known for their pursuit of perfection and minimalist ways. And the Chado Japanese tea ceremony is one of Japan’s finer arts.

Distinguished by its formality, this ritual is a refined, quiet, and private performance delivered by the host to a few guests.

The Japanese tea ceremony is generally housed in a Chashitsu a separate tea house or a tea room with wooden lattice sliding doors covered with translucent Japanese paper, tatami mat floors, and a tokonoma alcove. Matcha is served curing the Chado and the entrance, garden, equipment, preparation, procedures, and small meals all form part of the ceremony.

There are various ceremonies which may change depending on the season, and the time of day. The Chakai is an informal ceremony which may finish within an hour and the Chaji a formal service which lasts for hours.

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Tasseography

Tasseography is the art of tea leaf reading.

While this art requires some skill and knowledge, there are a few easy signals for all of us.

To prepare for your tea reading: 1. Let the tea steep for a few minutes 2. Drink the tea, leaving a teaspoon or so of it in the cup 3. Take the handle of the tea cup in your left hand and swirl the cup in a anticlockwise direction 4. Take a saucer and turn the cup on the saucer 5. Leave the cup on the saucer for about minute or so to allow the tea to drain from the cup 6. Slowly, turn the cup up from the right 7. Now, the tea leaves are ready to be read

Superstitions

There are many superstitions about tea.

Here are a few just for fun.

1. If you have a tea leaf floating in your cup you can expect a visitor soon.

2. A hard floating tea stalk in your cup means a gentleman will pay a visit, while a soft stalk predicts a female visitor 3. Throw your used tea leaves onto the fire for good luck and financial well-being 4. If bubbles are in the edge of your teacup, you can expect romance and kisses 5. A strong brew means you’ll gain a new friend, while a weak brew leads to the loss of a friendship 6. Putting milk in your tea before sugar will leave you with a life of solitude 7. If two spoons are placed on the same saucer, you will marry twice or have twins

Use your intuition to interpret what you see.

Some signs are: Heart

romance is on the way

Mountain

you may be going on a journey soon

House

a successful change is coming

Book

may indicate your love of reading

Triangles

unexpected good fortune

Moon

prosperity

Sun

great happiness Embrace | 29

Exercise to Care Take 5 minutes to think about your heart, feelings and emotions.

When ready, jot down some points for your personal journey. Are you happy with where you are?

We all have the ability to care. Complete this plan to help you grow your caring self.

What do I want to achieve?

How will I achieve these goals?

When do I want to achieve these goals?

Embrace | 31

Actively participating in mindstimulating activities that expand your knowledge.

Learn The capacity to learn is a gift; the ability to learn is a skill; the willingness to learn is a choice.

Brian Herbert

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Finding Your Ikigai Ikigai is an ancient Japanese life philosophy that encourages you to find and pursue your purpose in life. It is your reason for living, your reason for waking up each morning.

Ikigai evolved from the principles of ancient Buddhist teachings and traditional Japanese medicine beliefs that physical wellbeing is affected by one’s emotional health and sense of purpose in life. It is a way of living that involves living your values, fulfilling your life roles, fostering collaboration and community, and healthfully pursuing your life’s goal.

Yet, Ikigai is more than simply being happy.

Renowned Japanese psychologist Michiko Kumano’s explored the difference between shiawase (happiness) and ikigai (purpose).

She believes that shiawase aligns more with the present and embodies such feelings as delight and peace. While ikigai is future oriented, and aligns with feelings of accomplishment and fulfilment. Those that experience ikigai usually devoted themselves to personal pursuits they enjoyed, and were more attuned to their purpose in life.

Psychologist Katsuya Inoue’s perception is that Ikigai has two aspects, the object that brings you joy and the joy itself. Inoue’s view is ikigain may be ikigai taishō derived from an object, something like your work, family, or a dream that brings meaning to your life, and it may be ikigai kan the feeling that make sense of this purpose. Essentially, Inoue’s interpretation combines those things that are external to you ikigai taishō and your personal response and your internal feelings, the ikigai kan.

Ikigai

Fulfillment

Accomplishment

Future

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“It is the Japanese spirit to pursue something in a subdued but sustained manner, rather than, in flamboyant fashion, seek short-lived satisfaction of momentary needs.”

- Ken Mogi

Pleasure

Family

Fulfilled

Ikigai Kan

Ikigai Taishō Sources & objects

Feelings

Work

Inoue also classifies ikigai as social ikigai, non-social ikigai, and anti-social ikigai. You may have more than one ikigai. You pursue a social-ikigai like helping the elderly and a non-social ikigai like improving your faith or self-discipline. Be careful not to be consumed by anti-social ikigai pursuits that are motivated by dark emotions, like hate and revenge.

Ikigai is a universal concept that can be practiced by anyone, at any age, at anytime. It is practiced by centenarians and supercentenarians living in the blue zone on the island of Okinawa, Japan. The Okinowan’s believe their longevity is due to living a simple life of doing combined with a healthy diet and attitude, and living a life practicising ikigai.

“Only staying active will make you want to live a hundred years.”

—Japanese proverb

Dreams

After interviewing one hundred centenarians and supercentenarians on Okinawa to try to understand their life philosophy and the secret to their longevity, authors Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles developed ten rules of ikigai.

Ten rules of ikigai 1. Stay active; don’t retire 2. Take it slow 3. Don’t fill your stomach 4. Surround yourself with good friends 5. Get in shape for your next birthday 6. Smile 7. Reconnect with nature 8. Give thanks 9. Live in the moment 10. Follow your ikigai

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“Junin toiro ten men, ten colours “ – Japanese proverb As you commence on your ikigai journey you need to consider each element to find your purpose. Your ikigai may be a simple daily ritual, it may be something grand, or a feeling you have. You ikigai might be caring for your pets, seeing your children happy, making your customers happy, helping others to improve their skills, or aiming to won gold at the Olympics. As the Japanese proverb goes, 10 men 10 colours, meaning we are all different, what brings you ikigai will be different from someone else’s ikigai.

By now you are on your way to understanding ikigai and are ready to find your purpose. Remember, it is the journey to find your purpose it is not a destination. There are no time frames. You may find your purpose today, you may find it next year.

Just for you: An ikigai worksheet for inspiration Click this link to download: www.embracemag.co/ikigai_flower

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Embrace | 37

Food for Thought Elderberry Mickayla Hosking

The Elder tree, or Sambucus nigra, produces these small, seedy, deep purple berries that hold a renowned power. It’s common in cold and flu herbal mixes, especially with children, due to its antiviral, immune enhancing and anti-inflammatory properties. The berries themselves are usually made into a syrup as ingesting them raw can lead to digestive upset.

There is some evidence that the berries can help relieve pain and the histamine response in sinus and allergy conditions. It’s a great folk remedy for illness prevention and to shorten the length of winter sickness.

The Elder tree also produces a stunning umbrella of white flowers prior to the berries which are used traditionally for respiratory infections and sinus infections.

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A study by Hawkins, et al. (2018) suggests that for upper respiratory conditions, such as the common cold and mild flu, Elderberry was able to reduce the severity of symptoms. Tiralongo, et al. (2016) followed such evidence, demonstrating placebo groups had longer cold duration and symptoms score was higher (i.e. more severe).

This study included air travel, as this is usually a place where our immune systems are compromised and most likely to stain the passengers health (i.e. flights are stressful). Elderberries have antibacterial and antiviral properties which make them perfect for cold and flu season as immune support. Two clinical trials using a liquid elderberry extract (Sambucol®) showed a reduction in symptoms and duration of influenza infection. A pilot trial with elderberry extract lozenges also confirmed a beneficial effect on severity and duration of cold and flu like symptoms.

Ways you can use Elder at home: Decoction: A cup of immune-boosting elderberry tea if drunk regularly can help fight against cold and flu symptoms. Add 1 tsp of dried elderberries to two cups of water and boil for up to 15 minutes before straining. Honey can also be added as a natural sweetener. This is similar to a tea but the brew time is much longer and you must cover the brew to ensure no loss of medicinal properties and cook for the recommended time. I recommend 2-4 cups a day for prevention during flu season, and 4-8 a day for reducing symptoms and length of illness.

Syrup: If you prefer to enjoy elderberry for its health benefits in a syrup form, make a decoction beforehand that can then be strained, simmered down to reduce moisture, and mixed with honey. This is one of the easiest methods to enjoy a daily spoonful of elderberry syrup that will last for up to one month in the fridge.

Alternatively you may find a syrup blend from your health food store or pharmacy, such as the Sambucol brand. 1 tsp to be taken 3-4 times a day.

Tincture: this one can be obtained from your Naturopath or made at home within a few months.

If you would like to find out more about how herbs can help or nutrition haven’t exercised in a while, you should consult with your doctor, physiotherapist or a podiatrist.

Mickayla is a qualified Naturopath. She has completed a Bachelor of Health Science (Naturopathy) from Torrens University and currently runs her own naturopathy clinic. Please seek advice from your health practitioner before beginning new treatment.

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In Plain View – The Arts Art is the language of self-awareness. Whether you like visual arts, music, theatre, graffiti, or poetry, art has beautified our life since prehistoric times. For the artist, it is a blank canvas to express themselves whereas for the observer it is a land of serenity. It surpasses the societal concepts of race, culture, religion, and sexuality. It brings people together in the toughest of times. It gives a voice to the silent ones, and a sense of calm to the anxious ones.

Art is a beautiful language in itself.

Interactive art redefines the boundaries between art, artist and audience by inviting the audience to participate in the creation and appreciation of art and transforms traditional galleries into immersive, multi-sensory experiences.

So, whether you are in Victoria or in Western Australia or in Tasmania, we have got something for everyone to please their senses with different forms of art. We hope this will inspire you to dive in the artistic culture and ignite a passion for the language of art.

Victoria

New South Wales

The 2021: Spirit of Place Lorne Sculpture Biennale, is a world-class, public sculpture event located in, and inspired by, the heart of the Great Ocean Road. Participating artists will display works responding to themes that explore Lorne’s histories and the beauty of its natural environment. Exhibiting in one of Australia’s most picturesque locations, the Biennale offers an open-air event for all art lovers alike, Be prepared to enhance your experience with Sculpture Plus, a series of arts and performance events.

A program that includes choreographed ‘sky-dances’ is a stellar event set to intrigue attendees. Sky Dances, performed by a female dance troupe tell stories about Wiradjuri people’s relationships with the night sky. SkyFest: Miima Warrabinya is a celebration with original music compositions, a parade of illuminated sky-lanterns, interactive virtual reality projections, stargazing with professional astronomers, indigenous food, stalls, exhibitions, workshops, and guided tours.

When: 30 October – 21 November 2021

When: 3-5 September 2021

Where: The Athenaeum Theatre, Melbourne VIC

Where: Wiradjuri Study Centre, Condobolin, NSW

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Queensland

Western Australia

Swell, is Queensland’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibition. You’ll be awe struck and sure to enjoy the experience at northerlySWELL, easterlySWELL, westerlySWELL and SWELL Smalls Gallery. SWELL showcases sculptures by local, national and international artists with pop-up exhibitions in situ on foreshores and beaches and art galleries across the Gold Coast. There are a range of unique activities to mesmerise you from twilight guided tours, to artists talks, or join an artist led workshop.

Brush Part Night is a night to leave your inhibitions behind and join in the collaboration for some spontaneous art making. Gardiner Street Arts Collectives promises a night of music, mayhem, paint, laughter, and a very large canvas. You will be guided by Creative Director and Visual Artist Nyree-Jane Taylor, as you create art using pop, rock, classical and jazz music as your inspiration.

So, unleash your creative side while you sip, paint and laugh. You will need to bring your own wine, all else is supplied including aprons, paint, paper, canvas and drinking glass wear.

When: 10 – 19 September 2021

When: 11 September 2021

Where: Currumbin Beach, Gold Coast, Queensland.

Where: Moora, WA

Northern Territory

South Australia

Celebrating its 21st birthday, and with a running theme of Lovin’Local, Desert Festival 2021 is a 10 day red hot celebration of music, theatre, film and art. With Alice Springs, the heart of Australia as the centre stage, you’ll enjoy the exploration and experience of Desert culture and the Red Centre.

Desert Festival helped shaped our Alice Springs arts sector into the nationally recognised, vibrant community that it is today. Events will take place in and around Alice Springs.

Be prepared to be entranced by the Aboriginal Art House in Hanhdorf, and the celebration of authentic artwork and custodians of magical works of Aboriginal art from the Central and Western Australian deserts. It is the largest Aboriginal art gallery in the region showcasing many hundreds of paintings across four showrooms. Artworks are hand-selected and come with full provenance and authenticity certification.

When: 24 September – 03 October 2021 Where: Alice Springs, SA

When: Thursdays and Fridays 10:00am to 4:30pm Where: Hanhdorf, SA

Tasmania Interweave Arts’ Remade Parade will inspire you the reuse, remake, and relove your castoffs. The Remade Parade is a carnival style parade featuring wearable art transforming recycled materials into sustainable messages. If you are feeling inspired, sign up for one of the community costume making workshops to create your own costume and join the Parade. The Remade Parade is one of the events at the Junction Arts Festival. If you love indie music and festivals this is one to add to your list. Tickets: online at junctionartsfestival.com.au When: 1- 5 September 2021 Where: Launceston TAS

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Puzzles Diagrammar

Clues

Find the intersect for three words.

All words contain some of the same letters.

The Central Intersect has been filled for you The other intersects may have 1 or 2 letters The circles may have 1 or 2 letters All sections must contain at least one letter

Samurai, Gheisha, Maiko

A Travel, Distance, Romance

A

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For solutions: Visit https://embracemag.co/solutions

Falling Snowflakes Unscramble the letters to piece together the snowflakes and make them whole again.

A

Letters once unscrambled form one word

I

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Clues

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For solutions: Visit https://embracemag.co/solutions

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Find the word T

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The leftover letters form the following word: _____________

Alienated

Gheisha

Matcha

Soba

Belong

Grow

Miso

Stack

Books

Hastes

Negativity

Sustain

Bounce

Healthy

Olympics

Teach

Care

Heath

Positivity

Telephone

Chill

Hydrangea

Recline

Tokyo

Connect

Ikebana

Reflect

Toxic

Distance

Ikigai

Relationship

Track

Eclipsed

Know

Roams

Work

Elbows

Learn

Sensei

Flake

Long

Snow

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For solutions: Visit https://embracemag.co/solutions

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Exercise to Learn Take 5 minutes to think about your wisdom, knowledge and intellect.

When ready, jot down some points for your personal journey. Are you happy with where you are?

We all have the ability to learn. Complete this plan to help you grow your learning self.

What do I want to achieve?

How will I achieve these goals?

When do I want to achieve these goals?

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Building healthy and supportive relationships with others in the community.

Connect People heal from their pain when they have an authentic connection with another human being.

Marshall Rosenberg

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Feng Shui Lighting

The Chinese have always believed in the balance and harmony of nature and sought to reflect that balance in their daily living. Feng Shui is the traditional Chinese art from that has been practiced for over 6,000 years. It is the study of the environment and the interaction between the environment, places, people and time.

Balance is reflected in the passive, the active, the feminine, the masculine, the heaven, the earth, the living and the dead, the Yin and the Yang. It is the tajitu symbol that expresses this balance, this dualism of two interlocking spirals.

Feng Shui seeks the balance between the Yin and the Yang to enhance positive chi and correct negative chi.

Lighting Good lighting can lift the Chi energy of any area.

While windows and skylights allow filtered sunshine, lighting increases the yang, while dark spaces increase the yin. Lighting balances the Chi energy.

Whether from candles, lamps, or chandeliers, lighting draws attention and creates an attractive place for the Chi energy to flow.

•

Living areas: warm lighting with incandescent bulbs or warm LED bulbs

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Work areas: track lighting or spotlights for focus

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Positive energy: use two or more softer lights and dimmers

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Office or Library: Halogen lights send out bright light

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Garden & Driveway: use a post light with a top light fixture

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Western Side: use metal fixtures to generate a creative space

Fabric lamp shades create a more yin quiet atmosphere, while metallic or reflective shades create a harder more yang atmosphere. Colour also influences the atmosphere.

Yin refers to aspects qi that are relatively material, substantial, condensing, solid, heavy, descending, cold, moist, cooling, dark, passive and quiescent.

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Red shades in a living room increase fame

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Pink shades in a bedroom increase romance

•

Purple shades in an office bring wealth

Yang refers to aspects qi that are relatively immaterial, expanding, hollow, light, ascending, hot, dry, warming, bright, aggressive, and active.

•

Yellow shades create a relaxed and settled atmosphere

Chi is the flow of energy which pertains to all living things such as trees, plants, humans and animals.

If you cannot alter where your lighting is try changing the lighting bulb types, use different coloured lamp shades, or add a mirror to reflect more light. Mirrors can change to room’s energy and are good for dark spaces.

By following these simple principles you should be ready to invite new opportunities and positive energy into your life.

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Relationships – Surviving the Distance Zera’im Tanner

In

the past, we, me and he, didn’t think too much about how to maintain our long distance relationship. After all we had skype, messenger, phone accounts that are almost too low to worry about, and wow those accumulating frequent flier points. I’d fly to New Zealand one month and he’s fly to Sydney the next. It was all going quite swimmingly, until COVID struck.

I remember my social psychology lecturer saying in one class getting the right person is a 50:50 chance. Some will get it right and some won’t but you will never know until you take that chance. As someone in their late 20’s who had already divorced twice this was reassuring.

At least I wasn’t a total failure. Luck had some part to play. But it was also a little frightening.

I had hoped for a magic checklist to scrutinise a potential companion before diving head first into another relationship.

If you are in a long distance relationship like me, how are you finding the separation without the frequent flights? Will your relationship survive the long distance? Here’s some tips that helped me and they might help you too!

1. Practice positivity: react to your partner with trust and confidence without being toxic or insincere 2. Enjoy the space: use the single time to develop yourself, stay fit and healthy or find a hobby 3. Speak when ready: don’t force the phone calls, sometimes there won’t be much to talk about. That’s ok.

4. Lose your insecurities: you will need to develop a higher level of trust in each other and be trustworthy.

5. Be empathetic: your partner is going to have bad days and will need you to listen to their woes and comfort them 6. Share your feelings: it may feel strange to open up on the phone but your partner needs to know how you are feeling 7. Set a date to see each other. I know it’s a little hard a present but we will be flying again. Fingers crossed.

8. Move in together: forget the frequent flier points, make plans to end the distance and be happy together COVID did put a strain on our relationship, we weren’t able to see each other as often. And our conversations dried up a little. Being locked up meant we weren’t interacting with others as much or doing interesting things during the day to bring to the conversation. But COVID changed our relationship and we are now making new plans for the future living together.

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“Distance is not for the fearful, it is for the bold. It’s for those who are willing to spend a lot of time alone in exchange for a little time with the one they love.

It’s for those knowing a good thing when they see it, even if they don’t see it nearly enough.”

– Meghan Daum

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Exercise to Connect Take 5 minutes to think about your friends, family and peers.

When ready, jot down some points for your personal journey. Are you happy with where you are?

We all have the ability to connect. Complete this plan to help you grow your connected self.

What do I want to achieve?

How will I achieve these goals?

When do I want to achieve these goals?

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Living in harmony with nature and respecting the environment for a sustainable growth.

Sustain Heaven is under our feet as well as over our heads.

Henry David Thoreau

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A Small Hero Tiny Homes As an Australian after years of living in the large homes and apartments in Victoria, when I moved to Hong Kong I experienced the rude awakening of living in under 60m2 and I did this for nearly ten years. It became a personal epiphany around how I lived and what was really important in my life, streamlining the essentials, living a minimalistic existence but essentially enjoying a big lifestyle.

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In

“Planning frameworks are the largest single determinant of the number of granny flats constructed in each state. Restrictive rules in Victoria result in a very low number of granny flats for a state of its size – less than even SA and WA.“

Australian homes or new designs, there can be so much wasted space, more areas to clean, higher running costs, low usage areas and reduced overall comfort. Do they really suit your lifestyle, flexibility in your current living arrangements or future needs?

When living small, consider your functional usable space requirements, affordability, carbon footprint, running costs, investment size plus how environmentally friendly your design is. Reach out, as there are so many resources and professionals available these days for us to explore designing and building a Tiny Home or Granny Flat on our land, new property or investment.

With an ageing population we all have loved ones that may in the future benefit from living with us, but prefer their own privacy and space, so having the option to provide a tiny home or granny flat on our land is great. Consider your land, or the land as part of a home your considering buying. Is there potential for a back yard subdivision or can you build a tiny home or granny flat? Contact your local council or engage a professional to answer these questions and the value add possible at the site, as due diligence is always worth your time.

Development, planning and design takes time, but if you ask yourself all the hard questions, do the critical thinking, engage professionals with expert opinions, all these can manage your risk and reduce any regrets you may experience in the future.

– Housing Industry Association

We all bring our life experiences to the table when considering our homes, investments and living arrangements which change overtime, but the essential items can typically remain the same (i.e. kitchen, bathroom, sleeping, lounge & outside areas).

Really how much space we all need is a personal choice, but from my experience it is normally more than we really need and with good design and professional help you will be surprised at the results and benefits.

This has been the second instalment of a three part series where I look at the benefits of A Small hero – Tiny Home, Small Home, Granny Flat or Secondary dwelling.

Andrew is a licensed estate agent based in Victoria who has enjoyed a long business career in Australia and overseas providing solutions and building a referral business. www.maxjre.com Embrace | 59

Andrew Johnson is a licensed estate agent, businessman & entrepreneur based in Brown Hill who has enjoyed a long and varied business career in Australia and overseas providing solutions and building a strong referral business.

Mobile 0473 207 988 Email andrew@maxjre.com LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/andrew-johnson-8435092 Company Maxwell Johnson Real Estate Pty Ltd Address 9 Gracefield Road, Brown Hill, VIC 3350

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Interior Harmony with Irina First impressions count and everyone loves a warm greeting and a friendly smile. It makes them feel welcomed and appreciated. Your lighting story allows you to greet the guests and visitors to your home with that same warm welcome.

When you are planning your room, remember to plan the lighting.

Lighting, is a huge topic to talk about, but I wanted to give you a few ideas to keep in mind.

First of all, think about all activities, what’s going on in this room—for example – the kitchen. You are cooking, eating breakfast, lunch, dinner here, quite often having a pre-drink for all home-base events or before going out, sometimes kids doing homework, relaxing with a cup of coffee or tea and more, more and more – this all depends on your family.

First scenario – general light, usually it is a downlight. Your down lighting should be enough to feel the bright light.

“I recommend 1 downlight per 3 square metres of floor space.”

Second scenario – accent light. This is a light above the island, dining table, coffee table, bench – all areas which you want to highlight.

This should be the point of attention. Aim for a bold design, reflecting your house style.

The third scenario – work light and, at the same time, gentle accent. This is a light above the workbench, some storage spaces, i.e. shelves, rangehood, pantry. This is your first helper to cook and clean! LED light strips, built into the bottom of the cupboards or shelves are a most useful way to do work light.

And a fourth scenario – light accessories, such as candles, small table lights, side lamps – all that you can easy to change, move around and create a warm atmosphere for the family or romantic dinner.

Now you too, can create your own light life!

Irina Mazalova is a qualified Interior Designer and owner of LineStudio2020 . Irina offers advice and planning for residential and commercial projects. Her portfolio covers a variety of styles and colour palettes.

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Exercise to Sustain Take 5 minutes to think about your home, nature and environment.

When ready, jot down some points for your personal journey. Are you happy with where you are?

We all have the ability to sustain. Complete this plan to help you grow your sustainable self.

What do I want to achieve?

How will I achieve these goals?

When do I want to achieve these goals?

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Feeling a sense of security and stability by being able to comfortably meet current and future commitments and needs.

Grow Chase the vision, not the money; the money will end up following you.

Tony Hsieh

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Your Money, Your Wealth, Your Estate Jacqueline Hodges

H

ave you ever looked out to the distance as you stood at the beach or on hill and wondered how far it was to the horizon?

It seems so far away. And just like the horizon, planning for your retirement and into old age seems so far away. But time goes by so quickly, so your planning should begin earlier rather than later. Yet, it can be overwhelming conceptually to plan for today, tomorrow and some other relatively unknown date far into the future. So, in this article I will provide you with some guidance to begin your financial journey.

Let’s start by thinking about your life stages as different horizons. Life stages are the significant milestones in your life. To align your plan to your life stages, think about your short-term, mediumterm and long-term needs and wants. Once you understand your short, medium, and long term needs and wants you can begin to plan how you will achieve those needs and wants and when you want to achieve them. You needs and wants are quantifiable goals and targets.

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Time Horizons Short Term

< 5 years

Medium Term

3 to 10 years

Long Term

10 to 20 years +

For example, if you want to buy a new Tesla in the next two years, then you have a short-term goal. You know that a new Tesla will cost around $70,000. So your plan will include how you are going to achieve this goal. Can you pay for the new car with savings you already have, or will you need to borrow to finance the purchase?

Thinking further along the horizon, if you want to an adventurous driving trip around Australia in the next five years, you have a medium-term goal. A trip around Australia requires quite a lot of planning but it is quantifiable. You can estimate the costs and the time frames.

Your long term horizon, that is more than 10 years into the future, may include stocking up on big ticket items prior to retiring, renovating your house, retiring to the beach, or making a tree change. Again you can prepare and plan how you will meet these goals.

Time is more valuable than money.

You can get more money, but you cannot get more time.

— Jim Rohn

Life Stages There are several theories on life stages, and how the stages are interpreted. Lifespan psychologists consider these as periods of development, moving from infancy through to adulthood, categorising the milestones of life into eight or nine stages such as Erik Erikson and Joan Erikson‘s Eight and later Nine Stages of Life, or even 12 stages such as Dr Armstrong’s The 12 Stages of the Human Life Cycle. Others base the life stages on broader conceptual grouping or simplify the development into three or four stages.

There is no rule is how you identify with your life stage, and in some cases you may slip back to an earlier stage. For example, you have a baby in later life, you may slip from an empty nester back to motherhood, or you may retire but then return to work or business.

Choose the life stage that you identify with or that resonates with you and then begin your financial journey.

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Stage

Age (Approximate)

Events

Early adulthood

20-40 years

Work, romantic relationships

Middle adulthood

40-60 years

Work, parenthood

Late adulthood

60 +

Retirement, reflection

(Excerpt Erik Erikson Stages of Psychosocial Development)

Stage

Age (Approximate)

Events

Early adulthood

20-35 years

Find a home Establish circle of friends and family Get a good job

Middle adulthood

35-50 years

Reflection Betterment of their life

Mature adulthood

50-80+

Benevolence Volunteerism Mentorships

(Excerpt: The Twelve Stages of the Human Life Cycle by Dr Armstrong)

Stage

Age (Approximate)

Events

Self Discovery

20-30 years

Find a home, establish circle of friends and family

Get a good job

40-60 years

Work, parenthood

Commitment

30-retirement

Reflection & Betterment of their life

Legacy

Post retirement

Benevolence Volunteerism Mentorships

(Excerpt: The Four Stages of Life by Mark Manson)

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Begin Your Financial Journey You will no doubt have ambitions and goals to life your life the way you dream and desire.

It may be to create a relaxed lifestyle, it may be forging ahead with new plans, or it may be to continue just as you are. Whatever your plan, it is yours. It may be yours alone or you may prepare a financial plan jointly with your partner.

You may have longer term plans. You may have envisioned your retirement. It may be a sea change with a life at the beach, a tree change to a regional lifestyle block, or a caravan trip around Australia.

By beginning your financial journey you can make the plan and prepare to live the life your dream or if necessary revise that dream into a realistic goal.

Make a date Whether alone or with your partner, fix a date in your calendar to schedule some ‘financial me time.’ Be prepared on your date, have a clear a space, have a notepad ready to record your thoughts and ideas.

You might like to write on paper with a pencil and have an eraser ready to change things as you go. You can use a variety of tools, such as a mind-map, post-it notes, an excel spreadsheet, an electronic notepad or a whiteboard. Whichever tools you are going to use, have them ready and close by when you start your date.

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Give Yourself a Gift Your date doesn’t just have to be financially rewarding, you’ve earned yourself a treat for doing a good job. So, whether it’s buying a bunch of flowers, burning a tranquil incense, splurging of something luxurious, or just a smile in the mirror give yourself a gift. Positive reinforcement is powerful.

Improve Your Financial Literacy Make time to learn about financial matters. You can read blogs and books, listen to podcasts about personal finance and investments or speak with your financial adviser. Financial literacy is something you can learn.

Speak with Your financial Adviser How you fund your lifestyle choices requires planning and the earlier you start you will be able to control saving and preparing. Once you have your goals established you need to consider how much you will need to fund those goals. Ask yourself. Are your goals feasible? Do your plans make financial sense?

Are they viable? Can you save enough to fund those goals?

Your plan may be a multi-pronged approach.

You may be waiting to downsize from the family home into a smaller property and use the excess equity for your retirement funds. You may already have a sizable superannuation fund and investment portfolio and feel confident that your retirement is secure.

If you haven’t got a plan yet, that’s ok. Now is the time to focus on your future, consider what options you have and set your plan in motion.

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“The best time to start was yesterday. The next best time is now.” – Unknown Jacqueline Hodges is a Chartered Accountant, Registered Tax Agent and SMSF Auditor. She is a Financial Adviser and an authorised representative of Wealth Today. She has a wealth of experience having worked in the financial services sector for most of her career. Jacqueline is a firm believer in continuing education and holds a Bachelor of Commerce (UQ), a Master of Taxation (UM), and a Financial Planning Certificate. She established her own accounting firm servicing individuals and small businesses in 2005 and complemented the business in 2015 with the opening of the financial advice

division.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is general in nature and may not be relevant to your personal circumstance and needs. Taxation, legal and other matters referred to in this article are of a general nature only and are based on laws existing at the time and should not be relied upon in place of appropriate professional advice.

We recommend that you assess whether the information is appropriate to your needs and if appropriate speak with a financial adviser to discuss your needs, financial situation and investment objectives.

HQ Wealth Pty Ltd as trustee for HQ Wealth (CAR 1238791) and Jacqueline Hodges (AR 1238790) are Authorised Representatives of Wealth Today Pty Ltd (ABN 62 133 393 263), AFSL 340289.

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Print and digital subscriptions www.embracemag.co 76 | Embrace

What you need to live and enjoy a well-balanced life

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Exercise to Grow Take 5 minutes to think about your finances, wealth and future plans.

When ready, jot down some points for your personal journey. Are you happy with where you are?

We all have the ability to grow. Complete this plan to help you grow your wealthy self.

What do I want to achieve?

How will I achieve these goals?

When do I want to achieve these goals?

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Reaching a sense of fulfillment while maintaining a work-life balance and positively influencing the growth of the organisation where you work.

Work You will never feel truly satisfied by work until you are satisfied by life.

Heather Schuck

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Refresh. Relax.

Uplift

With Summer Salt 24K Gold Chamomile Dreams Face & Body Oil www.rosemarynaturopath.com.au

BUY ONLINE www.rosemarynaturopath.com.au/skin-care mickaylanaturopath@outlook.com 82 | Embrace

0427430562

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Freelancer - Build Your Base Jacqueline Hodges

I

t’s a strong and well known concept that the best businesses, those that have a chance of surviving are built with a strong foundation. So just what does that mean?

And how do you start?

Whether you want a small gig on the side or you are dreaming of a seven-figure empire, starting a business is a journey, I’ve spoken with many women who have a dream but don’t know where or how to begin this journey.

So this is article is about the beginning, how to build your base.

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Planning It all begins with planning. Plan, plan, plan and then plan some more. Do you remember the five w’s, who, what, where, why, and how. Well that is your starting point. Set aside some time, find a quiet space, and think about your response to these questions.

1. Who are your customers? ( Think: industry, geography, age, personality, income levels) 2. What are you offering them? (Think: goods, services, your time, multiple products, combinations) 3. Where are your customers? (Think: urban, regional, interstate, overseas, online, postcodes) 4. Why do they want your goods or services?

(Think: needs, wants, and your point of difference) 5. When do you have customers? (Think: everyday, weekends, seasonal, Christmas, other holidays) 6. How are you going to deliver to them? (Think: postal, courier, shipping, air freight, cost, reliability)

Processes Get you processes right. Have your business model mapped out. If you are selling products across the country or overseas, how will you ensure these are delivered.

And while you may seek the support of family to build your base they are less likely to complain about any flaws in your processes. Independent customers will help you strengthen your base by highlighting any problems that they have with your delivery, service or product. Map out procedure and process for each of these core business systems: Customer Strategy & Relationships (Marketing) 1.

Customer Acquisition (Sales)

2. Quality & Product/Service Delivery 3. Product Development 4. Financial Management: 5. Technology Stacks 6. Administration

Communication Communication is the key! As you start out you may only need to think of communication as a two pronged approach, that between your customer and you, and that between your suppliers and you. As you grow and you start to build a team, you will need to think about the communication between you and your team.

Communication is about building and maintaining relationships. The strength of those relationships will determine the strength of your base.

Set out how you will communicate and build those relationships.

Customers: Think social media, telephone, mail outs, email campaigns Suppliers: Think telephone, email, payments, meetings Team: Think meetings, email, chats, intranet, procedures, reviews

Starting a business requires persistence and resilience. It takes time to build the base, to form relationships, to make sales, and for you to see the results. But there is a freedom in freelancing and a joy in growing your business.

So set yourself up for success and build the base. Its not always easy but it’s definitely worth it!

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Your Tech Stack Managing Workflows Amy Leigh

F

reelancers are met with a host of challenges every day, so having the right tech stack is essential. With so much on offer, it’s hard to pick and choose the right tech stack for your business, so in this article I am featuring a few of the apps, suites, and tools currently available.

This article talks about freemium apps and tools.

If you are a freelancer, sole trader, or a start-up you will want to keep your software costs as low as possible. At this stage you might not be ready or even need to expand into the higher-end full bells and whistles levels.

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Fortunately, there are apps and tools out there to help you manage your work flows in the free to freemium range. You might ask what’s the difference between free and freemium. Well some companies offer small business almost the complete range to experience for free. These are the freemium models. Others offer a free trail for a limited time frame.

One of the biggest issues we have in business is managing our work flows and knowing: • what we are currently working on, • when that work came in, • what the team is working on, and • when the work is due.

So here is my top five freemium workflow management apps.

Asana

Trello

Wrike

Basecamp

Asana is a great app, If you need to manage your own and your teams productivity and workflows. Asana lets you create separate files to manage your client projects, set timelines, and assign jobs to individual team members.

It even has templates for some specific industries to help you set up your projects. It also has a great list of integrations like Slack, Dropbox, Google Drive, Zapier, Zoom, and Salesforce. To get the best out of Asana you really need to be on a full screen, it’s not so great on mobile devices.

Wrike is an online collaborative work management platform that really sits well with remote teams. It’s versatile and will fit with your business as you grow. It has a built in form builder, and has so many integrations to facilitate workflow automation. This little hero is more expensive but it is easier to set up and start using than many other project management apps. Again, it’s to so great on the mobile devices. You really need to use Wrike on a desktop or Laptop.

Trello is a great project management app when starting out. Trello is an intuitive, user-friendly project management app with drag and drop Kanban style task management. You can set up your project, and invite your team without the steep learning curve. It has built in features like due dates, and calendar commands. It does allow for comments on cards but to really communicate within the team you will need to integrate to another platform like Slack, Google Drive, and Microsoft Teams. It is also mobile friendly.

Basecamp is a great communication and collaboration app. While starting out you might be able to manage your projects and communicate with clients using Basecamp. But as you grow you will need a stronger project management app. However, nothing outshines Basecamp for team communication.

Slack

Slack is a top business messaging app that allows you and your team to connect with each other in real-time through calls and chats. It also keeps a searchable record of all your files and conversations. Slack is sufficiently flexible to grow with your business. It has many integrations and is easy to use.

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Exercise to Work Take 5 minutes to think about your career, workplace and ambitions.

When ready, jot down some points for your personal journey. Are you happy with where you are?

We all have the ability to work. Complete this plan to help you grow your working self.

What do I want to achieve?

How will I achieve these goals?

When do I want to achieve these goals?

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Feeling a sense of belonging by participating in various cultural activities and embracing the cultural differences of the community.

Belong We exist to serve our community. That’s the most important mindset to maintain.

Chris Brogan

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The Olympics remain the most compelling search for excellence that exists in sport, and maybe in life itself.

– Dawn Fraser

Tokyo 2020 Olympics It is on no surprise that the world waits with a little trepidation and a somewhat veiled excitement for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics to begin on 23 July 2021. After all, we are still in the midst of the pandemic. Yet the Olympics is an enormous global event, that facilitates trade, improves international relationships, brings promises of tourism to stimulate the economy, and results in an excitement and flurry of national pride, not only for the host nation but for the competing nations as well.

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It is an enormous event that takes planning and commitment, with building and construction of new venues that the nation must somehow absorb and hope to recoup. This Olympics has been marred with fear. The fear of not proceeding. The greater fear of spreading Covid. Yet after being postponed in 2020 due to the global pandemic, and although Japan is suffering a new wave of Covid cases pushing Tokyo into a State of Emergency, this Olympics, will proceed. Tokyo 2020 Olympics will proceed but not as planned.

There will be no tourists, no spectators. Japan has effected an international lockdown barring entry to all but the competitors and their entourage. Yet Tokyo 2020 is set to be the most watched Olympics in history.

Yet we must all be so pleased for our sporting heroes. So many young athletes were denied their moment of glory last year. They had trained so hard for this ultimate of challenges. It must be immensely exciting to now have that opportunity to complete and to shine. To show their true skill and to challenge not only themselves but their rivals.

Some will achieve their personal best. Others will try their best. It may seem strange to complete without the roar of cheers and jeers of the spectators. There will be a different vibe. One that is more personal.

Let’s hope that they take pleasure in the moment, as they finish each their events.

The Australian Team Our Australian Olympic team of 340 athletes, staff and officials arrived in Tokyo on Saturday 17 July.

They will be competing in 33 sports, across fields, arenas, pools, courts, and in the ocean. Heading the Australian team, as Chef de Commission is Ian Chesterman. Chesterman is currently Vice President of the Australian Olympic Committee and runs a sports communications and events business. Deputy Chef de Commission is Susie O’Neill. Susie O’Neill is a former Olympic Gold Medalist and known in her day as Madame Butterfly.

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What’s New The Tokyo 2020 are adding six new sports to the games, some of which are quite unexpected. These are sports climbing, surfing, skateboarding, karate, baseball, and softball. So while we wish all the competitors well, we give special mention to those who are competing in these debut events.

out for Julian Wilson, Owen Wright, Sally Fitzgibbons, and Stephanie Gilmore as they ride the waves and debut in the Olympics.

Skaters will thrill audiences with their skills and will score for difficulty, height, speed, originality, execution, and composition.

Our team of five, Hayley Wilson, Keegan Palmer, Kieran Wooley, Poppy Olsen, “It’s and Shane O’Neill will be pulling not about out their best stunts in their debut. winning at the Olympic

Nothing speaks traditional Japan in these Olympics like Karate. Karateka, will show their Kata forms Games. It’s about trying to Baseballer and and Kumite spar gaining win.

The motto is faster, higher, softballers alike will points for strength, stronger, not fastest, highest, be sliding home and speed, rhythm, good form, power and control. strongest. Sometimes it’s the stealing bases. We don’t have a baseball team to Australian, Tsuneari trying that matters.” challenge for this title. But Yahiro will be competing our ladies softball team will — Bronte Barratt in the 75kg category. be aiming for as many home Yahiro is a four-time Oceania runs and stealing bases as they fight Championships winner, and has also in this debut challenge. claimed two bronze medals and a gold medal at the World Circuit competition.

Sports climbing is a gruelling event, with climbers competing across a combination of the three climbing disciplines of speed, bouldering, and lead climbing. We have two athletes competing in the sports climbing; Oceania Mackenzie and Tom O’Halloran.

Oceania is the current Australian National Champion across all three climbing disciplines. Tom is an outdoor climber but changed to indoor to represent Australia.

But he has numerous national and international accolades and is a two times grand finalist on Australian Ninja Warrior.

Surfing is a mind game with competitors challenging for their turn on the waves at Shidashita beach. We will be looking

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The Bitter Pill There are some athletes who will not compete this time. Athletes like 13-year old skateboarder Charlotte Heath were disqualified after contracting Covid during the qualifying contests. Some athletes like, Australian women’s basketballer Liz Cambage, have withdrawn, not wanting to jeopardise their health.

Some like tennis star Nick Kygrios who entertains and connects with the crowds have withdrawn as the spectators, their fan base will not be there.

“The thought of playing in front of empty stadiums just doesn’t sit right with me,” – Nick Kygrios

To all the team So to all those athlete’s competing, we acknowledge the years of training, of focus, discipline, goal setting, and improvement.

The athletes will have still their day to shine, to try their best, to outperform, and for some to have their glory.

We may not have mentioned your name but your efforts are just as important.

We wish every athlete competing the chance to realise their passion, fulfil their dreams, to enjoy their event, and be present in that moment. Go out and simply try your best.

“Winning doesn’t always mean being first.

Winning means you’re doing better than you’ve ever done before.”

—Bonnie Blair

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Salad, Soup & Smoothie Soba, Miso & Matcha Japan hosts the 2020 summer Olympics, and what better way to watch the opening ceremony than to treat yourself with some Japanese inspired nourishment. In this issue, we celebrate three traditional Japanese ingredients. Soba noodles make a terrific base for a wholesome salad, Miso brings a heart-warmingly umaminess to soup.

Powdered Matcha brings an extra nutritional boost to your smooties. So, quench your thirst or stave your hunger with these elixirs.

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Soba Noodle Salad Ingredients For the dressing: 200gm tamari or soy sauce 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar 1 tbsp yuzu juice yuzu zest 1/2 tsp honey 1 tsp chilli sauce 1 garlic cloves, minced 1 tbsp ginger, grated 1 tbsp sesame oil 3 tbsp vegetable oil

For the salad: 200gm soba noodles 1 cup carrots, julienned 1 cup edamame beans, cooked and shelled 1 cup capsicum, thinly sliced 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced, seeds removed 1/2 cup snow peas, sliced diagonally 1/2 cup red cabbage, shredded 1/4 cup eschallots, thinly sliced diagonally 1 tbsp ginger, julienned 2tsp sesame seeds, toasted 1/4 cup coriander, fresh A pinch black pepper

Equipment Vegetable peeler Large pot Colander Large salad bowl for serving Small bottle to mix salad dressing

Directions 1. In a large pot, fill with enough water to cover the pasta once added and bring to a boil. Cook the soba noodles according to the manufacturer’s instructions, about 4 minutes.

2. Drain and transfer noodles immediately into an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain the cooled noodles and lightly dry on a paper towel.

3. In a large bowl, combine soba noodles and all of the cut vegetables and set aside.

4. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together all of the soy dressing ingredients except for the sesame oil and grapeseed oil.

5. Gradually add the sesame oil and whisk until combined. Then slowly add the grapeseed oil and whisk until combined into an emulsified dressing.

6. Pour dressing over the soba salad and add sesame seeds and cilantro, toss to combine

Variations a. Add sliced water chestnuts and nashi to the salad. b. Add 5 tablespoons of peanut butter and ½ cup of peanuts to the dressing, and top salad with chopped nuts c. Serve warm, by stir frying the salad ingredients. When done mix through the soba noodles and serve.

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Miso Soup Miso soup, the daily elixir of the Japanese diet, is not only a nutritional boost, it is easy to make at home. You can also add your soba noodles and choice of vegetables to turn this broth into a wholesome meal.

Ingredients 4 cups water 20g dashi powder 2 tbsp mirin 2 tbsp soy sauce 10 shitake mushrooms 2 tbsp white miso paste 1

piece of kombu 3tbsp wakame, dried seaweed 1/3 cup escahllots, sliced diagonally 150g silken tofu 150gm broccolini, 150gm baby spinach

tamari to taste

Equipment Large Saucepan Blender Mason Jars or cream soup bowls for serving

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Directions 1. To make broth, bring water to boil, then add dashi powder, mirin, soy sauce and mushrooms and simmer for 5 minutes.

2. In a small bowl, mix miso paste in a ladleful of the hot broth, then whisk into the soup.

3. Add wakame, tofu, and broccolini to the soup and simmer for 1 minute.

4. Pour soup into serving bowls, scatter with baby spinach and eschallots, Then serve

Variations a. Load with vegetable: substitute white miso with yellow miso and add, 100gm water chestnuts, 2 large carrots, julienned, 2 stalks broccolini, 3 cups firm tofu cubed, 3 cups mixed mushrooms (shiitake, oyster, shimeji, enoki) b. Step it up: substitute water with dashi: to 1 litre of boiling water add 20gm dashi powder, 2 tbsp mirin, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 10 fresh shiitake mushrooms and simmer for five minutes. Mix in 2 tbsp miso paste c. Get the good oils: poach 300 gm cubed salmon in dashi for 4 mins, add choice of vegetables, such as snow peas and spinach.

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Banana Matcha Smoothie This smoothie with its sweet banana and earthy matcha combined with delicious greens and vanilla extract is a great boost to start your day. Forget your coffee, you’ll be energised for the day.

1 cup

bananc slices

1 cup

fresh spinach

1 cup

oat milk

1 tsp

matcha powder

2 tsp

flax seed

1 tsp

vanilla extract

Directions

AvoChoc Matcha Smoothie

1. In blender, add all ingredients and blend on high for 2 to 3 minutes or until smooth and creamy.

2. Add honey if desired.

If smoothie is too thick, add a little more milk.

It wouldn’t be winter without a hint of chocolate. And if want a little hotter add some chilli chocolate. AvoChoc Matcha is a delicious feast, full of the healthy fats nutrients, vitamins, fibre and antioxidants to stave the hunger pangs.

2 cups

Almond or Oat Milk

1 Avocado 1 Banana 2

Medula dates

2 tbsp

raw cacoa powder

2 tspn

matcha powder

1tbsp

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Exercise to Belong Take 5 minutes to think about your culture, community and creativity.

When ready, jot down some points for your personal journey. Are you happy with where you are?

We all have the ability to belong. Complete this plan to help you grow your cultural self.

What do I want to achieve?

How will I achieve these goals?

When do I want to achieve these goals?

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Deeply connecting with self and something greater than ourselves to find and integrate the meaning and purpose of life.

Reflect We cannot reach happiness by consciously searching for it Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi

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W Total Recall: What Your Dreams Mean

Do you remember your dreams from last night? Do you recall any of your dreams? Are the details vivid and strong? Are they related to your experiences from the day before?

Can we make our dreams work for us? Have you ever dreamed you were dreaming?

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hile there is no rationally confirmed reason to why we dream what we dream, there are many interesting theories that try to explain this process.

Some believe that dreams are made up of different images and situations that our brain puts together, from our everyday functions, thoughts, emotions, and memories. There are some researches that prove that dreams are influenced by our experiences and thoughts from when we are awake. If you spend some significant time searching for a house you are interested to buy, there is a good chance that your dream would also consist of a house.

Our dreams seem help us to unravel our daily life, resolve lingering problems and reframe our stresses. During slumber, our dreaming brain conjures up highly vivid visualisations and office illogical sequences to help us resolve problems by thinking outside of the box, when our emotional defences are resting. Yet we rarely remember our dreams.

While we rarely remember our dreams, certain ones we don’t forget.

It seems that only the most beautiful or bizzare dreams are the ones that we remember. Research suggest that we can use out dreams to solve problems with lucid dreaming or dream incubation.

There are five steps to using your dreams: 1.

Clarify the problem

2.

Write the problem down

3.

Keep a journal by your bed

4. Stick to a regular sleep pattern 5. Repeat the process if necessary 6. Be patient and trust your dreaming

Our reader, Linda sent in an unusual and complex dream.

Linda was with daughter waiting for ferry when a mother, grandmother and three children come to wait. The mother asked if she could have some milk but the milk was unopened so I said no. then realising there was a toddler, I said yes.

The mother took a sip from the bottle and handed it back, saying she just wanted a taste.

Suddenly we are in a shopping centre and the grandmother asks if I would like to go into that shop. I wander in and see so many beautiful things I would like to buy that I go back outside to get my handbag from the shopping trolley which I had left outside the store. When I turned around to go back in the store was no longer there. It had changed into another shop.

I return to my daughter and we walk to the bus stop. I thought there was a lot of rubbish around but I noticed that it was sausage rolls, coffee and socks for the homeless. I take out of my bag socks of different sizes and leave them there.

When we hop on the bus my daughter and I are sitting together but I turn around and we are suddenly separated and my daughter is surrounded. She stands up to come be beside me and shows me a bolero. She says someone convinced her to buy the bolero but it goes with the dress. She shows me her new dress for the dance. It is white with many flowing layers with blue edges. We both agree the dress is lovely.

I wake up in the dream and tell my daughter about the dream, the grandmother and the shop. She says the woman must be a witch.

Dream introspective This is a complex dream, with change in each of the three paragraphs, change of mind, changing scene and change of position. It is also a dream within a dream. Linda did say here daughter is interstate and they haven’t been able to see each other for over a year now. So taking her dream in context perhaps there is some longing.

The changes could be the changing relationships. The people in the dream may represent that her daughter is surrounded by family who protect her even though Linda is not there.

Dream interpretation may be fairly obvious to someone who know you well or to a highly intuitive person. But your dreams are unique and belong to you alone. They are highly personal.

When you awake remembering a vivid dream, think about what it may mean to you. Your dreams as a reflection of your waking life, mirroring your fears, anxieties, desires, hopes, and aspirations. Before we explore the symbolic meaning of dreams, remember that dream interpretation is a general guide that may not always explain the what, the where or the why for you. Put your dream in context.

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Strangers

Daughter Daughters are often associated with good news, contentment and happiness.

It may mean that there will be a pleasant event in the future.

If your daughter was smiling and happy in your dream, this could mean harmony within your home or you may have a surprise visit from an old friend or relative you’ve not seen for a while.

To have a conversation with your daughter in your dream suggests that you should seek her advice is something she knows best.

If you saw and heard your daughter cry in your dream it could mean that she is hiding personal issues or sorrows from you but she still wants your support.

Blue Dress Blue is the colour of communication, and symbolises that you are an introvert.

It represents truth, wisdom, heaven, eternity, tranquillity, and loyalty.

Dreaming of a blue dress could mean you are hiding your emotions from others. A blue evening gown indicates a positive calming influence in the future.

If you dreamed of a new blue dress it may symbolise good changes. Dreaming about a dress suggests you wish to embrace your intrinsically feminine self.

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Dreaming about strangers is fairly common. It may mean you are feeling emotional but do not know why or symbolise not accepting the truth. It may also be a reminder that there is something urgent that you need to attend to, so you can achieve success.

Dreaming of talking with strangers is a good sign. It may mean that new paths are open to you or perhaps someone you haven’t seen in a while will come back to see you. if you dream of strangers surrounding you, means you should start thinking about yourself little more and open yourself to new opportunities.

If your dream caused you to feel anxious or frightened you may be encountering an emotionally unstable time.

Shopping Dreaming of shopping symbolises your needs and desires in your waking life and may be connected to love, romance, prosperity or career.

Dreaming about being in a shopping centre symbolises a surprise and new things are coming your way. It may mean you need to take a break to enjoy the little things in life.

Dreaming about a shop full of various products may mean you will soon have to make some important decisions. You may be struggling with a decision in your waking life.

Dreaming about an empty shopping trolley may you need someone or something new in your life, or you need more success in your life.

Dreaming about returning to a location represents a return to a previous psychological state or issue. If the location is no longer there your dream may be telling you that the problem has been resolved.

Waking up Dreaming of waking up is known as a false awakening. It may indicate a change in your schedule, stresses of urgency in your waking life or a sense of urgency about a task.

Recurring dreams of waking may indicate that there is a situation or a person that you do not want to face.

If you realise that you are in the midst of a false awakening stay in the dream state and try to see and understand what your dreaming brain is revealing.

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Bus Shelter Dreaming of waiting at a bus stop may indicate that you are going through a long drawn out issue. If you are waiting patiently you know things will happen.

If you dream of waiting for transport you need to differentiate between the routine and those trying to convey a special message.

Homeless People

Milk

Dreaming of other people in poverty may symbolise your empathy and sensitivity to children and the elderly.

Perhaps you should volunteer some of your free time to a charity.

Dreaming of milk is an indication of good health and health improvements. Be patient while your life improves.

Dreaming of helping poor people may be a warning that you will face challenges in your private and business life but you will overcome these. It may mean that people you know disagree with your decisions and may be pressuring you to change paths in your waking life. But if you believe in yourself and your ideas, your dream may also indicate you are defending yourself from those attacks.

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Dreaming of giving milk to someone to feed a baby symbolises motherly love and maternal instincts.

Interpreting dreams does not solely depend on the details, the objects or events that you see. It can also be altered by the colours in your dreams. Again, the meaning of things you see in your dreams may vary from person to person.

However, observing your dreams is a good practice of knowing yourself in and out. Remember to give your body a relaxing sleep to see positive and sweet dreams.

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Ikebana: Zen, Expression & Emotion More than a simple floral arrangement, ikebana is a beautiful form of moving meditation and minimalist expression that connects the heart of the Ikebanaist with that of the viewer.

With a foundation in Shintoism, Ikebana is a classical Japanese art form, flower arranging to form a living sculpture of blossoms, branches, leaves, and stems.

Ikebana arranging is a silent, meditative process that seeks the display the unimagined beauty of nature and evoke the viewer’s emotion. It seeks a duality, reflecting the harmony and balance between opposing forces.

Ikebana, is typically displayed using Moribana the shallow vase style or Nageire the tall vase style. Arrangements are formalised representations of nature and may be horizontal. cascading, spreading, upright or slanting.

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“The whole universe is contained in a single flower.”

– Toshiro Kawase

The main Ikebana styles are Rikka which has nine positions, Shoka which has three positions and relies on the active space. The positions reflect the cosmos. In Shoka, the three positions represent Ten heaven, Chi earth, and Jin man.

Moribana is a modern 3600 three-dimensional style, Jiyuka is a 20th century free style form, and Zen-Eibana an avante-garde form which makes use of modern materials not traditionally used in Ikebana, such as plastic, plaster, and steel.

Here are seven principles of Ikebana.

Silence

1.

Personality

Ikebana may be used as a form of meditation allowing the Ikebanaist to take time to observe nature, to work with nature, and to reflect on their place within nature. The Ikebana is the result and representation of a harmony achieved during the meditation.

2.

Minimalism

Ikebana embraces the individuality of the Ikebanaist in each arrangement. An Ikebanaist expresses themselves through the arrangement, such that no one will interpret the basic principles equally, no one will have a clear mind everytime, and each person has their own nuances and creativity.

Aesthestic 6.

Not only is there minimalism in the selection of plants but also in the arrangement. The intent is to create a graceful arrangement that highlights the branches, leaves and flowers at their best.

The elements should only be included if needed.

Shape and Line 3.

Lines are used to express the emotion and feeling you wish to convey to the viewer. A feeling of movement may be conveyed by creating lines that flow in a particular diagonal direction. A feeling of stillness and calm may be conveyed with vertical or horizontal lines .

4. Form and Focus

The form of the Ikebana is found whilst creating the arrangement. Focus is where you want your central flower to be positioned, to make the viewer more responsive. However, it may also be the empty or negative space which becomes the focus.

5.

Japanese aesthetics embrace the principles of, Wabi-sabi imperfect, Miyabi elegance, Shibui subtle, Iki refined uniqueness, Jo-ha-kyu tempo that starts slowly, accelerates, and ends abruptly, Yugen mystery, something should be held back, Geido discipline and ethics, and Ensou the empty space. Wabi-sabi suggests imperfection and impermanence makes life interesting. Shibui things are beautiful when they speak for themselves

7.

Structure The basic structure of Ikebana is a scalene triangle often formed by branches at the three main points.

The tallest is generally 1½ times the bowl height plus the bowl width. The second is generally 2/3 of the tallest and the final is 1/3 of the tallest.

Just remember, there are no rules to art, and beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

So, express yourself as you desire in your hobby. You may be more creative than you think.

And if you are not really into confident with your Ikebana skills, you may find bonsai, flower arranging, painting or photography more to your style.

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Exercise to Reflect Take 5 minutes to think about your soul, identity and purpose.

When ready, jot down some points for your personal journey. Are you happy with where you are?

We all have the ability to grow. Complete this plan to help you grow your inner self.

What do I want to achieve?

How will I achieve these goals?

When do I want to achieve these goals?

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Embrace Life Wheel The Emrace Life Wheel encompasses nine aspects of life. To see how complete your life is across each of the nine aspects of the Embrace Life Wheel, the following questions and colour the wheel.

If you feel that colouring is not for you, draw a dot or a line at the point you believe corresponds with how complete you feel in that aspect of your life.

nn Co

Boun ce

ec t

Wo rk

re Ca

ec efl

g

Grow

Learn R

B e lo n

t Sustain

How complete is your Embrace Life Wheel?

We have set out five questions for each of the nine aspects. You can do either of the following: Give yourself a yes/no response for each question. For each yes you have given, colour in the corresponding number of lines in that aspect.

Give yourself a point for each question. Add the total points and draw a dot in the corresponding aspect indicating how complete you feel in that aspect.

The Embrace Life Wheel is a positive tool to help you see where you can improve in each aspect of your life. Even if you scored yourself full and complete, there is always room to grow and improve.

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Notes

Bounce 1. I exercise for least 30 minutes each day.

2. I follow a well-balanced nutritional diet.

3. I drink alcohol responsibly.

4. I am the right weight for my height.

5. I am generally fit.

Care 1. I am happy with myself and my life.

2. I enjoy and appreciate my life.

3. I express my feelings clearly.

4. I can control my fear, anxiety or anger.

5. I enjoy laughing.

Learn 1. I am learning a new skill.

2. I pursue a mentally stimulating hobby.

3. I read a book regularly.

4. I am committed to life-long learning.

5. I commit time to professional and self-development.

Reflect 1. I regularly take time to reflect or meditate.

2. I have a sense of purpose in my life.

3. I recognise and renounce self-limiting thoughts.

4. I live by my ethical values and moral principles.

5. I listen to and trust my intuition

Sustain 1. I am aware of the recycling bin rules for my local area.

2. I reduce, reuse, and recycle.

3. I have a green space I can visit and feel replenished.

4. I use environmentally safe cleaners and sprays.

5. I take time to educate myself on environmental matters.

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Belong 1. I spend time developing my creative ability.

2. I have a hobby that allows me to be creative.

3. I regularly visit art galleries, museums or cultural venues.

4. I like learning about different cultures.

5. I am part of a community that shares creative ideas.

Grow 1. I have a good savings plan in place.

2. I repay my debts when or before they are due.

3. I have a diversified investment strategy in place.

4. I have a savings goal for my retirement.

5. I regularly donate to charity.

Work 1. I have a satisfying career or business.

2. I have a career plan or business goal.

3. I manage a good work/life balance.

4. I respect my colleagues and peers.

5. I know when to take a break and do so.

Connect 1. I have a great group of close friends.

2. I make time to meet or call friends and family.

3. I readily make new friends and acquaintances 4. I know when I need my space and alone time.

5. I can set my boundaries and respect the boundaries of others.

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About 10Ellen 10 Ellen Media is a privately owned, vibrant multi-media company that includes a portfolio of print and digital content. Based in Ipswich, Queensland, 10 Ellen Media reaches to national and international readers of all life stages.

Our work reflects our values of living in total harmony with ourselves and those around us while indulging in pleasures every now and then. We inspire our readers to seize the little moments of joy while working, cooking, traveling, creating, and just being.

Our creative teams collaborate with the readers and industry professionals to share their stories, creations, and beautiful ways of living and learning. The readers enjoy access to our work in their preferred channel that include print and digital articles, podcasts, social media groups, and video content. We welcome the experiences of our readers to create a community of likeminded people who share common interests and goals.

Our portfolio includes print and digital content inspired by the simple pleasures of life, wellbeing, travel, food, creativity, and community-building.

Our Portfolio

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