tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66599819209985621952024-02-22T16:07:45.271+00:00Super Pooped: Adventures for the ExhaustedHannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.comBlogger108125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-63036704193495283682022-10-19T18:35:00.000+01:002022-10-19T18:35:01.689+01:00A Very Merry Sickmas<p><span style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello my lovely loves,</span></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As seems to be my pattern in more recent years (since the pandemic started really), it’s been a while.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But I wanted to talk about this year’s Sickmas (or, for the uninitiated, the anniversary of when I got sick).</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This year it will be ten years since I got sick. On the 1st November 2012 a happy-go-lucky (if very overworked) 26 year old woke up and could barely move, and she’s spent the last ten years clawing back whatever little bit of health and life she could.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And that’s sad. But… it also makes her kind of a badass.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Because it has been clawing. Digging my nails in and hauling myself every teeny tiny millimetre towards a better life. </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And it’s not perfect, I’m still sick. I’m still housebound. But I’m moving in the right direction.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Part of the reason I’ve not been writing so much is because I’ve had enough energy to do more. Even some illustration work; something at one point seemed insurmountable.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And, yeah, sometimes I’m so tired I huddle up and become very small, and cry and mourn, because of course I do.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But I keep going.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I could not have done it without my incredible parents, and amazing friends, my kind counsellors, and supportive health professionals. </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But I also couldn’t have done it without me.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>I did that.</i> For ten years. Through unimaginable exhaustion, and pain and frustration, I made things better. And I’m still not done. </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So on the 1st November I’m wearing a party hat, and eating some cake. Because I deserve it.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(And if you’ve been keeping on keeping on, then you do too.)</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">H</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWlo2FUBpa8h0XItTIjZULPDZqQx07MLoCkt1PuAGBJjC2dksvQo63xZGSxk0GW7zeapua68QTkzKYxJabHE5npFlKe_Ze8DzJvDmzj-bA0_w2otvv0cg-QqTScjEuJIqCXXg_wpZvUpBm7v-JBqhAWRMNxK3ILP6KxQuCHLu2q2XnIOLJ6TtW_MOExA/s640/B5C8DD2A-0E8E-4B5B-9703-DB4F1606DE68.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWlo2FUBpa8h0XItTIjZULPDZqQx07MLoCkt1PuAGBJjC2dksvQo63xZGSxk0GW7zeapua68QTkzKYxJabHE5npFlKe_Ze8DzJvDmzj-bA0_w2otvv0cg-QqTScjEuJIqCXXg_wpZvUpBm7v-JBqhAWRMNxK3ILP6KxQuCHLu2q2XnIOLJ6TtW_MOExA/s320/B5C8DD2A-0E8E-4B5B-9703-DB4F1606DE68.jpeg" width="240" /></a></div><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgb(69, 69, 69); color: #454545;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-37850236112499573792022-05-15T16:14:00.013+01:002022-05-15T16:17:35.856+01:00The Party or What it takes to get outta here<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">Hello my lovely loves!</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; font-family: inherit; white-space: pre-wrap;">This ME Awareness Week I've got a little surprise for you. Part of the reason I've been quiet on my blog over the last couple of years is the extra effort and care I've been putting into improving my health. </span></p><p><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">It's slow and frustrating and sometimes makes me want to scream, but... over time I've really started to see the benefits. Perhaps not ones that would seem a </span></span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">great deal to an outsider, but progress nevertheless.</span></span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); white-space: pre-wrap;">Three weeks ago m</span></span><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">y parents had an afternoon tea for their 25th Anniversary (although technically 27th now, ta, Covid) and I've been working really hard in order to make an appearance.</span></span></p><p><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlTg159zJwyJ6G9qJLe2GokSu6rsbvlxoeRrafQEe5aaLbaOK_6jSpDZbhhEmtTWWm3wlwfMxVNwryzr6Btmxk4jFYpQYUjtv2iPy4zpme2w2p79qOFQL-ju-MMy91HXWDBW86owO1tA6EIe0pUW5r3_2cghMydOJD8j53rEYsfaDEcaxSjAvfAyrZA/s3088/IMG_2443%202.JPG" style="background-color: #eeeeee; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3088" data-original-width="2320" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxlTg159zJwyJ6G9qJLe2GokSu6rsbvlxoeRrafQEe5aaLbaOK_6jSpDZbhhEmtTWWm3wlwfMxVNwryzr6Btmxk4jFYpQYUjtv2iPy4zpme2w2p79qOFQL-ju-MMy91HXWDBW86owO1tA6EIe0pUW5r3_2cghMydOJD8j53rEYsfaDEcaxSjAvfAyrZA/s320/IMG_2443%202.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><p></p><p><span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); white-space: pre-wrap;">And I'm so, so proud I made it. I couldn't stop smiling all day, even once I'd started to feel awful.</span></span></span></p><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSU1W_1j9JTVlcnzwwO162cBkAIIpP_A8pSsGIbE26q3ALxyxHctXXTeO358aq29HXp-6YbvM5ilrzLjcWilDwTsSML7r1Zq03qcYPB6q1qtppUVcoifcPeB1oKwMjKsFAkwO5S1YgHmSCpfxu1zvoUSGqw5cP2wsxRnGARmDqtN7AkXT-1FqskgHxoA/s2876/IMG_2457.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2317" data-original-width="2876" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSU1W_1j9JTVlcnzwwO162cBkAIIpP_A8pSsGIbE26q3ALxyxHctXXTeO358aq29HXp-6YbvM5ilrzLjcWilDwTsSML7r1Zq03qcYPB6q1qtppUVcoifcPeB1oKwMjKsFAkwO5S1YgHmSCpfxu1zvoUSGqw5cP2wsxRnGARmDqtN7AkXT-1FqskgHxoA/s320/IMG_2457.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I'm currently about 3 weeks afterwards and the Payback is lifting, but I'm still not quite back to how I was pre-party. Still, that's blooming' good going for an ME sufferer! (Also payback is made much more bearable with </span></span><span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); white-space: pre-wrap;">ridiculous amounts of leftover cake. Shocker.)</span></span></span><div><div><span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); white-space: pre-wrap;">I took the opportunity to make a video showing </span></span><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">what goes into making it to an event like this, even for such a short time. If you're a sufferer yourself then feel free to filch any ideas I used to make it happen.</span></span></div><div><span style="color: #0d0d0d;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">Before I link it, there are two things I forgot to mention in the video:</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">1. We chose the time I'd arrive at the party very carefully. Too late and I'd already be past my best for the day, and too early and people would be doing their hellos which is very tiring to be involved in. People arrived at half 2 to begin tea at 3, so Tom set off at 3 to pick me up.</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">2. I mentioned taking snacks because, even with having eaten before leaving and during the party, there was always a chance my blood sugar would suddenly drop. </span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">While getting used to short trips I've overdone it in the car before and become stuck in the carpark outside our house while Mum ferried in biscuits from the house. Now we always take some as a preventative measure.</span></span><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="296" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CTSHPDmqS5U" width="483" youtube-src-id="CTSHPDmqS5U"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">
</span><span style="caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;">Special thanks to Tom, who chopped a chunk out of his afternoon tea experience to come pick me up and drop me off again. I couldn't have done it without you! (I did say thanks on the day, but it bears repeating.)</span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div></div></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVhhsJW-_KjKS5BQyqASpbwucp-LE04EU0ekhD2w04HgZ-Gu95FcZzgVz4vwxAG61HE4zOrjr5cj0hLcJGbQVd_2B6wc-KgkzZYLEXJzp3FATi09ieeXkn--ZWsM1CPi_eIFNBcMbWBa8sZj5R9JbDvbnGAScoyUO6cQCpprlBlerhntfrLn1oNQPKhg/s1000/IMG_2481%202.JPG" style="background-color: #eeeeee; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="750" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVhhsJW-_KjKS5BQyqASpbwucp-LE04EU0ekhD2w04HgZ-Gu95FcZzgVz4vwxAG61HE4zOrjr5cj0hLcJGbQVd_2B6wc-KgkzZYLEXJzp3FATi09ieeXkn--ZWsM1CPi_eIFNBcMbWBa8sZj5R9JbDvbnGAScoyUO6cQCpprlBlerhntfrLn1oNQPKhg/s320/IMG_2481%202.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-size: x-small;">Mum's on the left and that's my aunt on the right. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-size: x-small;">We have the same nose.</span></div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(13, 13, 13); color: #0d0d0d; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div></div>Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-70141450127212656462022-01-24T14:18:00.003+00:002022-01-24T21:38:21.004+00:00Being "Vulnerable"<p><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello my lovely loves,</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Surprise! I’m still here. </span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As you may have noticed, I haven’t been updating as I used to on Super Pooped, but, given the circumstances that everyone’s found themselves in, I wasn’t sure there was anything I could say that hasn’t already been said.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m quite certain whatever I write will have been said, and probably better than I could say it, but at this point, I feel as if I have to use my own words before I can write anything else.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So much is happening in the world, even outside of Covid. When so many people are yelling into the void I wasn’t sure that one voice would be noticed. But maybe it’s not about being noticed, or listened to, or understood. Maybe it’s just about saying it.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With the constant onslaught of lockdowns, and jabs and shielding I haven’t felt able to talk as much as I used to. </span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To be perfectly honest, with the persistent repetition of “it’s only the old, sick or disabled that are at risk” I wasn’t sure I wanted to.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That’s a phrase I’ve heard over and over and could quite happily never hear again. I’m sure everyone else who falls into those groups feels similarly. Because every time I hear it it’s a reminder than a worrying number of people would think of my death or the death of people like me as understandable. Acceptable. A foregone conclusion.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Having underlying health conditions seems to have been conflated with “going to die anyway”, and it’s infuriating.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We’re all going to die someday, mate. And technically myopia is an underlying health condition. But if you heard someone say that it’s not surprising someone had died of Covid because they had pretty chunky glasses you’d, quite rightly, think they were both ridiculous and a complete arsehole.</span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhQpg31W40-wizJedfKudZZuR8yAUIujUZ6Riy0AT8v3YG5gpzagnAv261n6Si8tcrP4G7LIV5S8NQ9YGbpOC6jycmZNcFYHJLs0aSjLGpYiwmVDsnO_h649Vasz7IzKQML-zPZNgVRTLTjgoEmitgnO5YFEcIDEseWeDHiPMbzTWKzIJnPdZBwZQUXcw=s800" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="450" data-original-width="800" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhQpg31W40-wizJedfKudZZuR8yAUIujUZ6Riy0AT8v3YG5gpzagnAv261n6Si8tcrP4G7LIV5S8NQ9YGbpOC6jycmZNcFYHJLs0aSjLGpYiwmVDsnO_h649Vasz7IzKQML-zPZNgVRTLTjgoEmitgnO5YFEcIDEseWeDHiPMbzTWKzIJnPdZBwZQUXcw=s320" width="320" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><div style="text-align: center;">Watch out, Edna. They're gunning for you.</div></span><p></p><p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m sure plenty of people wouldn’t understand why it’s so upsetting, but all I can think of it how different it would sound if the phrase was “it’s only women who are actually <i>dying</i> of Covid” or “it’s encouraging that it’s only children who are the most effected.”</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When someone says “it’s only the vulnerable”, I hear “and they don’t matter anyway”. That my continued life is worth less as a result of circumstances outside of my control, and therefore that I am not worth protecting. I’m not use<i>ful</i>, so I am use<i>less</i>.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In the immortal words of The Muppet Christmas Carol, “if they are going to die they had better do it, and decrease the surplus population.”</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Given the backlash against masks, restrictions and vaccinations, not to mention the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2021/feb/13/new-do-not-resuscitate-orders-imposed-on-covid-19-patients-with-learning-difficulties">DNR orders suddenly appearing on disabled people’s information</a> during the pandemic, it’s not as if the words don’t have corresponding actions.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Two of the main reasons I write this blog is to help people with ME try and manage it and to help people without it understand what life with my condition (or any disability) is like. To spread knowledge and understanding.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">At the beginning of the pandemic I tried to take some time to put myself into the shoes of those who’d never been stuck at home before and offer <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/03/dealing-with-quarantine-from-actual.html">help and guidance</a> to get through it, even if it was never used. Because, despite being frustrated that so many had never noticed that lockdown is a thing that some people have to deal with everyday, yes, it’s horrible, so of course, I wanted to help.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But “it’s only.” More or less every day, for two years.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With that phrase swirling around in my head it’s been a while since I felt capable of my usual level of compassion for those not effected by illness, age or disability (with notable exceptions, of course). </span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, even though I know the vast majority of people who read my blog are lovely people who don’t agree with this nonsense, I haven’t really wanted to write things attempting to make those who might well think my life worth less feel better.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And to the group of people who are ill, what could I possibly say to them that wouldn’t sound like meaningless platitudes?</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Don’t listen? They don’t mean it? Try not to think about it? </span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What could I possibly say?</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I also feel strangely guilty complaining about it. After all, in a lot of ways I am incredibly privileged. As a white cis heterosexual woman, becoming disabled has been my first foray into people thinking my life is worth less, at least openly and publicly. So many people have it worse than I do.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Misogyny is obviously a real threat, but no one has ever directly told me they think of me as less than, even if some do treat you as a surprisingly chatty piece of garden furniture.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And somehow it’s easier to deal with - maybe because it’s always been there? Or there are so many people in the same boat?</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Or maybe it’s because, despite my experiences of ableism, phrases that are essentially three-eugenic-thoughts-in-a-raincoat are coming from people that I never would’ve expected.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I can discount what racists and homophobes and misogynists and transphobes say, because I can’t respect people who think of others as less than because of such things. It’s hurtful, but not unexpected. But when those sentiments seem to be coming from every part of the political spectrum? From people you would otherwise have thought of as kind? Then it’s a whole lot harder.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Over time the original message has been added to the rallying cry of “we can’t do this forever”, as a means of offering explanation why the non-vulnerable majority should no longer have to be careful on behalf of the vulnerable. </span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">News articles and clips of people, many in positions of power advising the public, accepting a certain group as a reasonable sacrifice in an attempt to return to “normality” does seem particularly cold and calculating.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The head of the CDC recently said it was “encouraging” that 75% of fully vaccinated people that died of covid had underlying conditions.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The points at which intersectionality comes into play must be truly horrifying to withstand.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Putting ethics aside for a moment, the whole situation still seems bizarre, because <i>anybody</i> can become disabled or sick at any time. And... <i>everyone</i> gets older.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">No one seems to realise when they say these things that now or in the future they’re signing themselves up for pain, hardship and a state of disposability.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A huge group of people just gained long term conditions as a result of Covid themselves. Do they or their loved ones not realise that they now fall into that group?</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even if you’re not already, at some point you <i>will</i> be vulnerable, and then you will be just as disposable as I am.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Disability has a knack of bringing you face to face with your own mortality regardless of any other influence or situation in your life, and that makes threats to your wellbeing real and possible in a way that seems to be entirely absent in a massive chunk of the populace.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve watched friends and acquaintances post their adventures and hoped against hope that they share at least some small inkling of that knowledge to keep them safe, whilst also wishing that they never had to.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m very aware of Covid, and that, even if it didn’t kill me, I risk a potentially disastrous comorbidity in the form of Long Covid, or the loss of years of progress in my ME recovery that could very well leave me back where I started nearly a decade ago. </span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I like to imagine I’d have to strength to do it all over again, but I’m honestly not sure.</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And if I didn’t, then at least it’d <i>only</i> be another one of the vulnerable missing, eh?</span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">H</span></p>Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-88763720373802241232021-02-24T14:22:00.002+00:002021-02-24T14:43:09.643+00:00Ageing and Appearances<p><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span color="rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847)" style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);">Hello again my lovely loves,</span></span></p><p><span color="rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847)" style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p><span color="rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847)" style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); font-family: inherit;">It’s been a little while since I posted, but recently it’s been really hard to find motivation. I’ve been keeping my head down and trying to get through everything that’s been thrown at us; as a species, as Spoonies, and in my little family.</span></p><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s been A Time.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But today I wanted to talk about something that’s been bothering me for a while, that I always thought people might find a bit silly or vain or ungrateful. But I think the pandemic has strangely put people in a place where they’re much more likely to understand.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And that’s my complicated feelings about ageing.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I never really thought I’d be someone who cared about it, or had time to think about it, but as I’ve found myself in circumstances that I never foresaw, I’ve been thinking in ways I wasn’t expecting.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There’s a large part of me that is grateful I’m here to be ageing. A lot of people never have that privilege, and my experiences with illness have only made that more clear to me.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But there still exists a part of me that hates it. And it’s not necessarily because of vanity or because I think my worth is based on my youth or appearance (although that’s a fun mindset to try and fight after years of societal conditioning), but for the simple reason I haven’t been <i>living</i> in the way I thought I would.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I hate seeing fine lines appearing, and grey hairs crop up, for the simple reason that I feel like I haven’t had the chance to <i>earn</i> them.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There’s a whole chunk of my twenties and thirties that I’ve mostly been absent from. I have the souvenirs but none of the memories that should go with them. I didn’t earn these creases living my life, I got them waiting to be well enough to have one.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, things have improved <i>slightly;</i> I’m able to do a tiny bit more than I was two years ago, a year ago, six months ago. But they’re so tiny in the grand scheme of things that the difference is negligible from the outside.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And as proud as I am of myself for dealing with all of this so well, that’s still all time that I feel I’ve missed out on, and the frown lines just make it more obvious to me that I’ve had a lot to frown about.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It doesn’t help that I’ve always felt quite awkward in my own skin, but before I got sick I had just started feeling like I was coming into my own. </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I know a lot of people struggle with their appearance and body image, no matter how others perceive them, but I was <i>getting there</i>, you know? I was finally feeling comfortable with what I saw in the mirror. And then along came the Big Bad Tired so I couldn’t even enjoy it.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Being sick has also meant care in my appearance has taken a hit by necessity. </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I can’t shower everyday (or at all), I have to plan my wardrobe around what’s comfortable to nap in instead of what makes me feel good, I can’t style my hair how I want to (or basically at all), I can’t sit down everyday and take that fifteen calming minutes to do my makeup. I do makeup a few times a year now, and I miss it more than I ever thought I could.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It might seem bizarre to some people that I’m so bothered by it, but to me it was an essential part of self care that made me feel confident and put together and ready to face the world. </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I want so much to have that confidence back, and seeing the signs of time passing makes me frightened that I won’t. Or by the time I do I’ll be too old to go out and fully enjoy it.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This illness has shown me that however negative I felt about myself or my appearance before I got sick, I was wrong.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I <i>shone</i> because I was happy and healthy. Because I was full of life. And when you have something that makes you feel <i>dimmed</i> by comparison, it's a strange grief. Anything that compounds that is more painful that it would otherwise be.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Now everyone’s been in and out of lockdown for nearly a year, dealing with things that make them just ever so slightly more aware of their own mortality, and there’s this hole of wibbly-wobbly-timey-wime where people missed out on so much.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even then other people have been able to keep living in small ways; working, creating, and honestly I think more of my friends have had kids in the last year than the previous three combined. And I kind of love that, even though it stings on my own account. </span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">People are nothing if not resilient and, Christ, I love to see it.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But, despite being able to do more than us Spoonies, I’ve seen everyone struggle with the restrictions and it’s so, <i>so</i> familiar to me, that I thought maybe people would understand my feelings on this now.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Time is linear, and we all have to deal with it’s passing. But watching signs of that appear when you have no choice but to do anything <i>but</i> watch is horrifying. Terrifying. Heartbreaking.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And I just needed to say that.</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">H</span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847); color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-64237991650953605062020-10-31T13:08:00.003+00:002020-10-31T13:09:43.009+00:00The Importance of Halloween<p><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"> <span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;">Hello my lovely loves,</span></span></p><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s been a while since I’ve written a post, and while this won’t be a long one, I wanted to share a few things I’ve been thinking about lately.</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Someone online recently asked me </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">how I deal with my illness anniversary, or Sickmas, because they kindly remembered it’s coming up. (It’s the 1st November for those that don’t know.)</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">It took me a while to respond to them, because I was doing what I do every year to cope. Working on my Halloween costume. Every year I throw myself into it, and although I’ve always done so, it’s taken on a little more importance in my life since I got sick.</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">It allows me the opportunity not only to be someone else for a little while, but to revel in my favourite kind of creative problem solving. I enjoy it so much, and that’s crucial.</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s not just Halloween, but pretty much the entire end of the year from my housebound anniversary in September to New Year that I struggle. And during that period</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> I find the little parts of those times that I’ve always loved, that I can still do, and I try to make sure they’re in my life in some small way. </span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">Taking those tiny little moments and polishing them until they shine. So I can take them out and look at them when I need them most.</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">It doesn’t entirely block out all the things I can’t do, or the sad times. I make room for those too. I think it’s important to let yourself feel those moments, because they’re real, and honest and deserve to be listened to. All of you deserves to be listened to, even the sad parts.</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">People say you should focus on the positives, and I do that. I try to list to myself all the things I’ve done or enjoyed in the year, and all the (achievable) goals for the next, but there has to be time for the losses as well. Anything else is just a pretty lie.</span></span></div><span style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><div style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></div><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">When it comes to my costume, it took so much work and planning. I knew I'd be dressing as Crowley from Good Omens last year when me and my friend Nick (who dressed as Aziraphale) discussed it first and I’ve been slowly gathering everything since then. Working on it bit by bit throughout the year.</span></span></span><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">Even after all that planning it </span><i style="white-space: pre-wrap;">still</i><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> nearly didn’t happen because I had a run in with a ventilation needle just over a week before and had to be taken to the minor injuries unit. </span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">(Ventilation needles are used for wig making and are shaped like tiny fish hooks, so once it was in my finger I couldn’t get it out on my own.)</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">We were there less than an hour but even with ear plugs, ear defenders, an eye mask and lying prone in my wheelchair the world was just so LOUD and so BRIGHT.</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I stayed in bed for days after and although </span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;">I’ve been as careful as possible since then, I knew I was playing with fire to </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;">carry</span><span style="white-space: pre-wrap;"> on despite feeling terrible.</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">It’s a testament to how careful I’ve been, and how far I’ve come I was able to do the photoshoot at all.</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; white-space: pre-wrap;">Despite all that, I was in bed by half 3 of the day of shooting. And even before that - by about 12.30 - my legs were like rubber. I've been going downstairs on my bum because they’re just not stable at the moment.</span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;">I’m not saying this to be all WOE IS ME, but to point out the realities of doing these things.</span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;">I would love to cosplay more often, but it honestly isn’t possible, at least not now. I’m never in these costumes for more than a couple of hours and going places in them would be out of </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;">the question. </span></span></div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;">But I love doing them. And that’s incredibly important, <i>especially</i> now.</span></span></div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;">So even if I’m stuck in bed for days then it’s <i>worth it</i> for those moments when I get to see all my work come to fruition and strut around like a badass. </span></span></div><div><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;">Well, more like saunter vaguely like a badass, as the case may be.</span><br /></span></div></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div style="caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.847);"><span style="caret-color: rgb(20, 23, 26); white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee; font-family: inherit;">H</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4khyphenhyphenxZS8SlGjeS7MQJCZa4IUpyz6bajwS9oFbDn1Fz4wAjf_0_jyiKcLYmf86csw7R2LpwIZ4Y9dskEYs-f7X6T1_gMup6fssYU5PVvdq5PQ94KRPDMnASO5-bMxaAqMLePy3o1g9Kb5A/s960/123316255_10158026100364856_5409605740756035535_n.jpg" style="background-color: #eeeeee; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4khyphenhyphenxZS8SlGjeS7MQJCZa4IUpyz6bajwS9oFbDn1Fz4wAjf_0_jyiKcLYmf86csw7R2LpwIZ4Y9dskEYs-f7X6T1_gMup6fssYU5PVvdq5PQ94KRPDMnASO5-bMxaAqMLePy3o1g9Kb5A/s320/123316255_10158026100364856_5409605740756035535_n.jpg" /></a></div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUz5ZDPlaJDOe88-Pzgw9Rt5JII-X45-WLkbsHVdcQin6-VxnBK-SJC7p9JUREiq1zY_5cMT514AA4HJ9G4fUZVydxP9BAerz8QCDcTb7NfHGeqTfkFfEMd0Bp7hPvtnoNW1MVplPxY1nE/s320/123361694_10158026099884856_1103167358484637250_n.jpg" /></a></div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZV7p6TgmVRttbY4jEhu59TpQy641r5Shsf0Ivmnv9vXJNLwRJeCZZi0bKiYp0O_JMykNZbk64c0XkD0Gk8f8AvT30XE106JU4FJGVqZiWSRlTtfUjXC0ocauUbKdGGMQidaIfPbesxVt/s960/123339923_10158026099994856_3043201334937368886_n.jpg" style="background-color: #eeeeee; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbZV7p6TgmVRttbY4jEhu59TpQy641r5Shsf0Ivmnv9vXJNLwRJeCZZi0bKiYp0O_JMykNZbk64c0XkD0Gk8f8AvT30XE106JU4FJGVqZiWSRlTtfUjXC0ocauUbKdGGMQidaIfPbesxVt/s320/123339923_10158026099994856_3043201334937368886_n.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWu8EWoqzbOW0DVj48gIQg4rwoo9ZwBufhiKF0A3VMjuAMh_2HPkbeBCqI7WJY367z6iHxnjGp53-xXKuSAHbYvWqnDgcj4ye7QURezg76kpnAkSZRL6aPx3c4cdOSb6aNNVhrirB4kde_/s960/123388678_10158026100219856_923131190435255075_n.jpg" style="background-color: #eeeeee; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWu8EWoqzbOW0DVj48gIQg4rwoo9ZwBufhiKF0A3VMjuAMh_2HPkbeBCqI7WJY367z6iHxnjGp53-xXKuSAHbYvWqnDgcj4ye7QURezg76kpnAkSZRL6aPx3c4cdOSb6aNNVhrirB4kde_/s320/123388678_10158026100219856_923131190435255075_n.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uRZEqEundERRrQXLOITca-_-EoJg8mGlVjwWV9BVG1a-MXL5o0lMUdkl7QMv_2DBgKekDeaCyW3GzhhoJli_IYhb17vOs9Jhb4-zS8UuqpdH2zF_UoXoXX83yPJwltLu1UEYj5OyfGiW/s960/123330622_10158026099874856_8032651676785326988_n.jpg" style="background-color: #eeeeee; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6uRZEqEundERRrQXLOITca-_-EoJg8mGlVjwWV9BVG1a-MXL5o0lMUdkl7QMv_2DBgKekDeaCyW3GzhhoJli_IYhb17vOs9Jhb4-zS8UuqpdH2zF_UoXoXX83yPJwltLu1UEYj5OyfGiW/s320/123330622_10158026099874856_8032651676785326988_n.jpg" /></a></div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdebJSmwLbvumn8p_hSpbdpcvpXKUaEVg3HrxcIE9dopVNP-ybmKO0WKAIKaUaoSPF0mutmIgrRNq5AxAzXFr6lB6THpSF2EBnNZfnayvqaWow9DUZI9XXHRm_1yLpM8XPXhoAoRS35iV4/s960/123308884_10158026103209856_1092046297001174_n.jpg" style="background-color: #eeeeee; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdebJSmwLbvumn8p_hSpbdpcvpXKUaEVg3HrxcIE9dopVNP-ybmKO0WKAIKaUaoSPF0mutmIgrRNq5AxAzXFr6lB6THpSF2EBnNZfnayvqaWow9DUZI9XXHRm_1yLpM8XPXhoAoRS35iV4/s320/123308884_10158026103209856_1092046297001174_n.jpg" /></a></div><span style="background-color: #eeeeee;"><br /></span><div><br /></div>Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-80793395099628220312020-09-20T14:40:00.004+01:002020-09-20T18:39:08.342+01:00Introducing Persephone<p> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello my </span>lovely<span style="font-family: inherit;"> loves,</span></p><p>A fun one for you today - I have someone to introduce to you...</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TrVlY17Oi6w" width="320" youtube-src-id="TrVlY17Oi6w"></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span color="rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87)" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.87); font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Because let's face it, if you don't dress in faux leather and do an Easy Rider parody, did you even get an electric wheelchair? Or is it a Never-ending Story III spoof? At this point, I don't even know anymore.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thanks to Mum and David who agreed to be part of this and went ALL OUT. You can't really see it on the video but Mum has "love" and "hope" on her knuckles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eeZi2ZO7sqIvN2-os7AHAA8jQneq5BYX_lQ9BEzsFynAse0EXV4sKPho8w6CJhxGPODLYHuEGuIuRlIjf-am6obiU-rBpmsrUCTxa9Ejt1KDBe3Ku12gnTeYIjkCvzkfaT9x60SUDGWO/s2048/IMG_4349.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6eeZi2ZO7sqIvN2-os7AHAA8jQneq5BYX_lQ9BEzsFynAse0EXV4sKPho8w6CJhxGPODLYHuEGuIuRlIjf-am6obiU-rBpmsrUCTxa9Ejt1KDBe3Ku12gnTeYIjkCvzkfaT9x60SUDGWO/s320/IMG_4349.jpeg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">What a badass.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This took a few goes to film, and plenty of rests in between, and the thing I'm most annoyed about is that when I got tired and Mum had to take over the dual control of Seph I didn't think to record the hilarity that was her attempting to steer for the first time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It was really important to me to have Persephone home before the 25th September because that’s basically my 6 year anniversary of being housebound, and I didn’t want to go through ANOTHER one feeling so trapped. Particularly knowing that I was so close to having a little bit more freedom. It would just be an extra slap in the face.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I actually bought Seph in January, but due to Covid halting alterations to the garden to house her, it’s taken this long to get her home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know this isn’t going to stop me being housebound, but it will give me the tools I need to improve that little bit more, and have that extra freedom and independence I’ve been missing so long.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Being pushed lying down with your legs raised makes you feel very vulnerable, a little bit like being wheeled through the world prepared for a hospital exam, so this will really help my confidence.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thanks to everyone who made Persephone possible. Steve from the Kings Lynn Mobility Centre for matching me with a chair, and keeping her in storage while we got everything prepared.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Uncle John and Auntie Tina, who laid the foundations for the new shed and the paving to get her in.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The shed company for giving a bespoke door wide enough for Persephone’s magnificence.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Jim for doing the shed wiring to charge her (despite having been horribly stung by wasps the day before - mate, what were you thinking??).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">People who gave money towards me getting Seph in the first place, including my Hairy Frogmother.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And of course Mum and David who have been there every step of the way, painting and laying vinyl floor and being willing to change their home to accommodate the new chair.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You’re amazing and I’m so grateful.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Enjoy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">H</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p>Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-4192112626762178542020-08-12T12:27:00.002+01:002020-08-12T12:27:49.158+01:00The Momentary Check-In of Standby Hedgehog<p>Hello my lovely loves,</p><p style="text-align: left;">It's been a while since I've posted, but I wanted to let you know that I'm still here!</p><p style="text-align: left;">I do try and post once a month, but as you've probably noticed, between health problems, Covid, and various worrying things in the world I've decided to take the advice I give everyone else on this blog and just... be kind to myself.</p><p style="text-align: left;">I've needed a break from social media, and a break from deadlines (self-imposed as they might be), because right now? The world is a lot. And I can't take that on top of my dealing with my health.</p><p style="text-align: left;">If that's the case with you too, then embrace it.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Let's have a holiday.</p><p style="text-align: left;">Keep safe. And speak to you soon.</p><p style="text-align: left;">H</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRYVYeEm0wK5wPSMpmWtXcR7iuo_akryoeraL-A3Oj4sMbTrCdURR0dJXjUGqP2-cojI5eL1sazE5wgjt5vXgmFOaDvQUIvwWQ0bEc6O6Qx_93LB_rzv_NyB0p4ZndNh36yzc-cZ4b3s4/s634/456DABC100000578-0-image-a-1_1508274001242.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="634" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizRYVYeEm0wK5wPSMpmWtXcR7iuo_akryoeraL-A3Oj4sMbTrCdURR0dJXjUGqP2-cojI5eL1sazE5wgjt5vXgmFOaDvQUIvwWQ0bEc6O6Qx_93LB_rzv_NyB0p4ZndNh36yzc-cZ4b3s4/w406-h406/456DABC100000578-0-image-a-1_1508274001242.jpg" width="406" /></a></div><p style="text-align: left;"><br /></p>Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-46865568469414949602020-04-22T11:23:00.002+01:002020-04-22T11:23:46.763+01:00A Housebound Eco Guide: Part Four<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-one.html">PART ONE</a> ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-two.html">PART TWO</a> ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-three.html">PART THREE</a> ~ PART FOUR</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello my loves loves!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We're here for the fourth and final instalment in this Housebound Eco guide. If you're still reading, then I salute you.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Today we'll be looking at an eco wardrobe, keeping your house insulated, eco-electrics, and online options to make the world a better place.</span></div>
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<b style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wardrobe</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Upcycle old clothes</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’ve got something a bit old or out-of-date, is there any way you could give it a new look instead of chucking it? </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve done this with a couple of old t-shirts by changing the neckline, and I like them so much better than I did and I didn’t need to replace anything.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Saved money, and landfill, and gave myself a low key project to keep myself occupied when I had the energy.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Clothing Swap</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Instead of chucking old and buying new clothes, maybe see if any similar sized friends have anything they don’t want anymore that you do. New clothes for free? Yes, please.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL77nAmHB8eyf8RJI1GFC_La8IAzb6leEaFDgQIuGzGdV7AqRsZYZVkcoXU53mTNa4NWnYYJqitpuqu2WenV0SRH0th17V394VyQQYufkhHJ1x6s5EpaTq_E5uIjiO3neZ6FClwkeukuEZ/s1600/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="258" data-original-width="460" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL77nAmHB8eyf8RJI1GFC_La8IAzb6leEaFDgQIuGzGdV7AqRsZYZVkcoXU53mTNa4NWnYYJqitpuqu2WenV0SRH0th17V394VyQQYufkhHJ1x6s5EpaTq_E5uIjiO3neZ6FClwkeukuEZ/s320/giphy.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Donate or sell old clothes</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Anything that’s in a decent condition you could either donate to charity or have a go at selling online. I’ve made a bit of cash with some of my old shoes and dresses this way, and we could all do with a bit more of that.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make cleaning rags</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For those pieces that are too far gone to sell or donate, you can still use them by cutting them into rags for cleaning. If you’re a dab hand at sewing you can use old items to test patterns and make mock ups.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Handkerchieves</b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Using handkerchieves might seem a bit old fashioned, but they’re a much, much greener alternative to tissues. Use, and then stick them in the washing machine. And, if you have some fabric from old clothes you’re not using anymore, you can make them yourself!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Originally I was a bit grossed out by the concept, but I found some lovely vintage ones online and I really like using them. Anything that makes me feel like I’m a romantic heroine in a dramatic novel.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gQU_LU8pQU2wSDibGhncp84oClrGt1MCk6UKqcJSpYfiF0SSaaEpcb0wbmElW1Cqok80VvcKmMDUjw_JaYOIjtw19tQcyPc-1ox0OS_0Cl7OYMFVGKEwvtu1E3wJ5UkCyCLP-2ArnepN/s1600/tumblr_mlkcamUg9k1rwmdfyo2_250.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="393" data-original-width="250" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gQU_LU8pQU2wSDibGhncp84oClrGt1MCk6UKqcJSpYfiF0SSaaEpcb0wbmElW1Cqok80VvcKmMDUjw_JaYOIjtw19tQcyPc-1ox0OS_0Cl7OYMFVGKEwvtu1E3wJ5UkCyCLP-2ArnepN/s320/tumblr_mlkcamUg9k1rwmdfyo2_250.gif" width="203" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Plus my stepdad’s been using them since I can remember and he barely gets ill so it can’t be that unhygienic.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve got a lot of different cotton quilting fabrics in my craft stash from where I’ve got excited about different patterns, so I’ll be making some for myself in the future, as well as some for gifts.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Buy second hand</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Just as donating your clothes to second hand shops is great, so is buying second hand. You can get some great steals this way, and I’ve been using this option to slowly complete my mission of having shoes in every colour of the rainbow. There’s also so many option for this online now that it’s possible even for house or bedbound people. Win.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As well as the classic Ebay, there are places like <a href="https://www.vinted.co.uk/">Vinted</a> or <a href="https://www.preloved.co.uk/">Preloved</a>, where individuals can list their items.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.oxfam.org.uk/shop">Oxfam</a> have their own online shop now, and there’s also <a href="https://re-fashion.co.uk/">Re-Fashion</a>, which hosts items raising money for multiple charities.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you want something super fancy, then <a href="https://www.micolet.co.uk/">Micolet</a> have some really high-end brands second-hand and much, much cheaper.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_839618439"></span><span id="goog_839618440"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Carbon Offset</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even if you don’t go second hand, you can still look out for online retailers that offset their carbon emissions to be as green as possible. Etsy have started doing this so hopefully other brands will follow.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wyatt and Jack</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.wyattandjack.com/">Wyatt and Jack</a> use old beach toys and inflatables to make new items, like bags, pouches and even earrings. Not only can you buy something great, but you can also <a href="https://www.wyattandjack.com/collections/inflatable-amnesty">donate your old and broken inflatables</a> or deck chairs to them to make new and beautiful objects from. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Insulation</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Draft excluder</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A simple but effective way to keep in the warm air is using draft excluders by your doors. Do they look like something your nan had 90% of the time? Yes. Do most of the things us Spoonies end up using look like that anyway? Also yes.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And look! <a href="https://www.wayfair.co.uk/home-decor/pdp/house-additions-floral-dog-fabric-draught-excluder-fous1549.html?piid=">This one</a> looks like a dog!</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQ2HVFMd-3JLbsrMR2H4oq8v4M9JQVA96QG8jGioDyjuafnDFoVZv41WD7A_nPT2OaaHEDNxQ5hcef1nxlmLMxureo0kevN5LtNwVra924QH2OFSCBir32txm7iEXJZby4w4YBuJSeC5p/s1600/paoletti-floraldog-draughtexcluder-multi-0_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQ2HVFMd-3JLbsrMR2H4oq8v4M9JQVA96QG8jGioDyjuafnDFoVZv41WD7A_nPT2OaaHEDNxQ5hcef1nxlmLMxureo0kevN5LtNwVra924QH2OFSCBir32txm7iEXJZby4w4YBuJSeC5p/s320/paoletti-floraldog-draughtexcluder-multi-0_1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Double glazing</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you have the means, double (or even triple) glazing is a brilliant way to keep more heat in your home. The air between the layers of glass stops the heat from escaping, newer frames can eliminate gaps that create drafts, and the pièce de résistance… it helps sound proofing. So if you live on a busy street or the kids next door are making your noise sensitivity go haywire, then double glazing can be a lifesaver.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Plastic double glazing</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’ve not got the budget for double glazing, or are renting a property without double glazing, then a great alternative is plastic double glazing film.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This film can be stuck around your windows and then heated with a hair dryer to create a tight seal.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have both fond and harrowing memories associated with this because we used it heavily in our student housing.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When putting it over the bathroom window I pushed against the frame to ensure a good seal and <i>the entire window frame shifted in the wall as if the window would fall out of the house.</i> It was not a very nice place.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That said, the plastic double glazing film really did make a difference. Even with this stuff on all the windows we spent several months a year huddled together on the sofa covered in dressing gowns, hot water bottles and duvets - I dread to think what it would have been like without it!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Here's some from <a href="https://www.wickes.co.uk/Wickes-Seasonal-Secondary-Glazing-Film---6m2/p/210014">Wickes</a>, and some from <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Insulation-Heating-Draught-Excluder-Shopmonk/dp/B00NVI3DV6/ref=asc_df_B00NVI3DV6/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=309775932390&hvpos=1o4&hvnetw=g&hvrand=6851989836800085707&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9044880&hvtargid=pla-697364247504&psc=1">Amazon</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wall and Roof Insulation</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The final types of insulation are roof and cavity wall insulation. Most new builds will have some form of this already, but if yours doesn’t it really makes a difference to your energy bills.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We’ve had both types fitted and we’ve saved so much money on heating. Although, unfortunately we did it just before the government started offering grants to certain groups of people. Curses!</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgV28abFLuczKl8oRqHOhX_e4VPm80dHMmBr6LmFtWnEKtMV-Vgnj3Vfuel0iiwiy-LA2mJ6LO5IOBcvZEz6JTavAeH2vuInGF43lSQM2SiF8j-Y9Elnq9pkYgsy2DX9adIegGRqN1xH_/s1600/curse-you-villain-9281178.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="500" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgV28abFLuczKl8oRqHOhX_e4VPm80dHMmBr6LmFtWnEKtMV-Vgnj3Vfuel0iiwiy-LA2mJ6LO5IOBcvZEz6JTavAeH2vuInGF43lSQM2SiF8j-Y9Elnq9pkYgsy2DX9adIegGRqN1xH_/s320/curse-you-villain-9281178.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To find out if you’re eligible for help getting with insulation, <a href="https://www.gov.uk/improve-energy-efficiency">head here</a>. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wall insulation can also help provide some form of soundproofing. We didn’t get any in the wall joining us and next door and I’m genuinely considering saving up and paying for it myself just so I don’t have to hear their terrible music choices when I’m trying to rest.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There are now various energy providers that work being eco-friendly into their business plans. If that’s something you’re interested in here are a few! You can even add a check box for eco-friendly services when comparing providers on <a href="https://www.moneysupermarket.com/gas-and-electricity/">Money Supermarket</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://bulb.co.uk/">Bulb</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">According to their website Bulb is the UK largest green energy supplier. Their electricity is 100% renewable and 10% of their gas is, with the rest being offset with carbon reduction projects they support. Their motto is “Simpler, Cheaper, Greener”. Customer service is available via phone, live chat and email.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://octopus.energy/?gclid=CjwKCAjwsIbpBRBNEiwAZF8-z20XnBpvG6jJIx4WrrQPwzuTz2tor8nBw5P5vCfk_0PDCfw4vp-1ExoCd5oQAvD_BwE">Octopus Energy</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Again, Octopus boast 100% green electricity, and they don’t lock you in a contract. Their customer service is also offered over email and social media as well as phone, which is nice for accessibility, and they’re apparently the UK’s largest investor in solar energy.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">According to their website they’re listed as a recommended energy provider by Which from 2018-2020.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><a href="https://www.ecotricity.co.uk/for-your-home?partner=GO1&gclid=CjwKCAjwsIbpBRBNEiwAZF8-z4sT5Gaq-yGcNo8K9PrwnQBBKzG3DjeFWNpCiHCV73TRWZ4xx5ms_RoC--MQAvD_BwE">Ecotricity</a></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ecotricity are the UK’s longest running green energy firm, and offer 100% green electricity. They don’t currently offer 100% green gas, but again, anything not green is offset with carbon reduction schemes. They’re also in the midst of expanding to make their gas carbon neutral with biogas made from grass.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They have Pay As You Go options as well as tariffs, so that could be handy for people on metres.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Perhaps one day we’ll all be able to afford solar panels on the roof, but this is a great start if not.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Electrics</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Remote control plugs</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I found these amazing <a href="https://www.wilko.com/en-uk/wilko-remote-control-wall-plug-sockets/p/0343066">remote control plugs online</a> that allow you to turn things on and off easily. It’s a good idea to turn items off at the wall to avoid charging things unnecessarily and using “standby energy”, where appliances draw electricity in standby mode.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">While the general advice is to unplug things all together (or turn the plug off at the wall), sometimes that isn’t feasible if you have a disability, either because you’re not mobile or flexible enough, or you don’t have the energy to do it.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Remote control plug sockets take the mobility and energy issues away and greatly reduce the power you might be using. You can even set a daily alarm to remind you to turn off the sockets before you go to bed.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEch4diSqdMOPP-KOm2CNcT_AZ9MErKKXmNspe86toI-W-caIE9O8AKg-76dmpaVAutNY8yw8LkVaGVZODwljzk3iITSXGb07B_qbRJL3S-Ep3RCrBYcOOMW1hAvw_MH6kG1okjI3z7815/s1600/0343066-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEch4diSqdMOPP-KOm2CNcT_AZ9MErKKXmNspe86toI-W-caIE9O8AKg-76dmpaVAutNY8yw8LkVaGVZODwljzk3iITSXGb07B_qbRJL3S-Ep3RCrBYcOOMW1hAvw_MH6kG1okjI3z7815/s320/0343066-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Power strip with switch</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Similarly to the remote control plugs, a power strip with individual socket switches will allow you to control how much power is being used by the items plugged into it. I don’t have to energy to keep unplugging and plugging things, but this allows me to have my various chargers ready for use, and all I have to do is complete the circuit and turn on the socket.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Most power strips like this will include lights for each individual socket, so you can be sure that a. You’ve remember to turn it on, and b. You’ve turned on the correct socket.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Energy saving lightbulbs </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A fairly obvious (and common) one, but worth reiterating. And much cheaper than they used to be!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Use rechargeable batteries</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Both disposable batteries and rechargeable batteries can be difficult to dispose of or recycle correctly in the UK - you usually have to drop them off at specific locations in your area, but the benefit of rechargeable batteries is two-fold.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One, they save you money. Although the outlay is more to begin with, the fact you’re able to just keep filling up the batteries and reusing them means you end up buying few fewer batteries in the long run, so it works out pretty cost effective.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Two, the fact you’re disposing of fewer batteries (or sending fewer to recycling plants) means you avoid sending so many batteries to landfill. Win, win.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Feel free to do your own research online about the best ones for you. I have some Duracell ones, but I’ve heard great things about Panasonic Eneloop batteries.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Paper</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Unsubscribe from unnecessary catalogues, god knows they like to send them constantly, and go paperless paperless for your bills and bank statements. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lots of places also offer to email you receipts instead of printing one for you; not only will you save paper, but you’re much less likely to lose an important receipt if it’s in your email inbox!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When it comes to reading you can try Ebooks or buy your books second hand, saving money and paper. You could also join a book swap group and, of course, there’s always the library.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re housebound or are unable to make it to your local library, try and find out if mobile library service operates in your area.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Green web</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The physical world isn’t the only place where you can be greener, eco-friendly hosting and search engines now exist online, so if you’re looking to make changes there then here are some options.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.kualo.co.uk/company">Kuala</a> boast 100% green powered hosting, and have environmental policies that aim to reduce waste, encourage recycling and avoid unnecessary travel. Apparently many of their workers work from home, so I’m hoping that means they’re a pretty disabled friendly brand.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They offer shared hosting, business hosting, Wordpress hosting and reseller hosting options, as well as domains.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For further research on green hosting options check out <a href="https://www.techradar.com/uk/news/best-green-web-hosting">this article from Tech Radar</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Search Engines </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ecosia.org/">Ecosia</a> is a search engine that uses the revenue generated by ads to plant trees around this world, so every search goes to literally making the world greener. They’ve also created a solar energy plant to help power their searches.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Contact</b> <b>brands</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If there’s something you love that isn’t eco friendly... tell the brand. They have a lot of customers to gain with the political climate, and companies are always looking for ways to have better selling points than others.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If enough people say they want eco-friendly versions of their products then there’s a real chance for change.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m hoping to convince Sure that they should come out with eco-friendly reusable deodorant packaging. I want the product, but I don’t want to use the plastic!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Try not to fly in Aeroplanes</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Aw man, would you look at that? I did it! I guess being housebound for five years has its perks!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Seriously though, the chances of us actually getting to go somewhere are already ridiculously slim, that this is one you’re going to have to decide on your own.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Using aeroplanes are bad for the environment, there’s no doubt about that, but we also don’t have the flexibility of able-bodied people to take different options of travel. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For some of us, going by train, or boat, or car might actually be more suitable to their condition, in which case… brilliant! But to others using a plane might be the only option of getting to a place without worsening your condition. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you do have to take a flight there are organisations that allow you to offset your carbon emissions by donating to various projects, like planting more trees in the amazon rainforest, or helping with hydroelectric power in Chile and wastewater treatments in Thailand.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here’s just <a href="https://clear-offset.com/">one of the options</a>, but there’s plenty more to choose from with just a quick internet search!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span>Larger Scale Change</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you're keen to look into more ways to help with climate change beyond individual lifestyle changes you can check out <a href="https://youtu.be/GkbuV_a-rvs">this great YouTube video</a> on the subject. It's quite long but it's very thorough and explains things very well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><u><b>Finally</b></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">The last thing I want to leave you with is that I hope you can try not to worry too much. I know that it can be really stressful to hear about climate change and feel like you can never do enough.</span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">If you're reading this you clearly care a lot, but it's ok that you can't do everything. It's not the sort of thing that any one person can fix; the only thing anyone can really do is alter things in their small corner.</span><br />
If you're disabled or chronically ill, especially if you're house or bed bound, then that corner will naturally be smaller than other peoples. That's ok.<br />
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I hope this guide can help guard you against those hopeless feeling, and empower you to feel like you can do <i>something,</i> no matter how small.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjclKhddPE1c-VvPTFJMnXYonTrQe6A4G9nYZ0AHtmZNj2vCiENeHGMwuKUdL8EF_LOfspv-fdipV24sCaUm0FETNjqKjh_oLiUUPIZ8Pwsa7JmIvcvPWzI53_qutLaD6sJYBi5kXf-zvrw/s1600/giphy_s.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="305" data-original-width="480" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjclKhddPE1c-VvPTFJMnXYonTrQe6A4G9nYZ0AHtmZNj2vCiENeHGMwuKUdL8EF_LOfspv-fdipV24sCaUm0FETNjqKjh_oLiUUPIZ8Pwsa7JmIvcvPWzI53_qutLaD6sJYBi5kXf-zvrw/s320/giphy_s.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">Sending love, my lovelies.</span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;">H</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-one.html">PART ONE</a> ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-two.html">PART TWO</a> ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-three.html">PART THREE</a> ~ PART FOUR</span></div>
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Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-5412894734894934962020-04-15T12:44:00.001+01:002020-04-22T11:24:52.936+01:00A Housebound Eco Guide: Part Three<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-one.html">PART ONE</a> ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-two.html">PART TWO</a> ~ PART THREE ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-four.html">PART FOUR</a></span></div>
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Hello my lovely loves!</div>
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We're back to the bathroom for deodorant, ear care, nail care, medical kits, and menstrual products!</span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Natural deodorant options</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I really wish regular deodorant companies would just make their packaging eco-friendly. I wouldn’t mind having cardboard, or even refilling a reusable applicator myself.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So many of the green deodorants smell quite strong, which I struggle with, or come in pots which is just really awkward to apply.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have managed to find a couple that are better on this front though…</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.boobalou.co.uk/natural-organic-deodorant-stick-pure-unscented-plastic-free-vegan.html">Natural Organic deodorant stick</a> - unperfumed. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£6.99. Coconut oil and arrowroot formula. Also available with scents like lemon and rosemary if you’d prefer.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I did try this one but it seemed to irritated my under arms. I’ll probably give this another go, but do be aware if you have underarms prone to irritation. I do like that this one comes in cardboard packaging and is shaped like a normal stick deodorant.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.naturalcollection.com/shop/natural-deodorant-stone-by-natural-collection-1/?PCode=DSGPESS15&gclid=Cj0KCQiAqNPyBRCjARIsAKA-WFy1EwLqK1zBvqh6AvxiixRKFDsrGHb_rjPO9zrTjQppYiWmDlWf3ZQaAicLEALw_wcB">Natural Deodorant stone</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£5.50 for 165g. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Potassium alum crystal deodorant. Works by preventing odour from bacteria. Wet the stone to apply.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Iceguard-Crystal-Deodorant-Twist-Up/dp/B001EU993Y/ref=pd_sbs_121_t_0/260-4346935-4991817?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B001EU993Y&pd_rd_r=f12daf53-b365-48bb-ba07-0d25b3f2122e&pd_rd_w=Oz7wY&pd_rd_wg=yF2HP&pf_rd_p=e44592b5-e56d-44c2-a4f9-dbdc09b29395&pf_rd_r=P2HRNFF59MW5XB5X5EC1&psc=1&refRID=P2HRNFF59MW5XB5X5EC1">Ice Guard Natural Crystal Deodorant</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£4.99 for 120g</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Natural mineral salt that is completely unperfumed, and according to reviews lasts up to a year.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Do be a little bit careful with this one, some people complaining for crystal becoming loose in packaging and falling out. I do have this one and while it’s come loose, is hasn’t outright fallen out.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My main gripe with this is that I just don’t like deodorants that require me to wait for them to dry and prefer a stick. If that doesn’t bother you then it might be worth a try!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Face cleansing</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Something I wasn’t aware of for a really long time is that regular wet wipes aren’t biodegradable and in fact contain a lot of plastic. Here are some other options!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">Reusable cotton pads</span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Instead of using and disposing of cotton pads everyday, you can buy reusable ones from fabric that you just stick in the wash! It saves a massive amount of money in the long run, and you can find really lovely ones with cool patterns too.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m not going to list any on here, simply because there are so many, but just as a start you can try to narrow down what texture you want. Do you want more of a towel feel? Or a smoother fabric texture. Once you’ve decided that you can go from there.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re feeling crafty you can even make them from old clothes.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Muslin cloths</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re in the market for something even thinner you can go for muslin cloths. These can be used to remove makeup or cleanse with and are gently exfoliating due to the texture.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.renskincare.com/products/muslin-cloth-twin-pack?variant=13787305246762&fo_c=2896&fo_k=df57f79bc6236de6d547721158808b37&fo_s=gplauk&fo_oid=10642&gclid=CjwKCAiA98TxBRBtEiwAVRLquxm8p_Efa2y4YkCb8_SJN7g9WGLW1HlnZn7-43JRuwqjdZhYRR7gKBoCqbQQAvD_BwE">Ren</a> have some for £4.50 in 100% cotton for two.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Face Halo</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£17.95 for three reusable pads.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For makeup removal I use <a href="https://www.beautybay.com/p/face-halo/face-halo-the-modern-makeup-remover/?ctyid=gb&gclsrc=aw.ds&&gclid=CjwKCAiA98TxBRBtEiwAVRLqu-8OeV6XZ1IEg3wI-KdEAsm3mDjQUyyuo_G9i83pIDBqS0VbLxym_BoC-KQQAvD_BwE">Face Halo</a>s. These are similar to the reusable cotton pads, but made from a specifically designed microfibre that removes makeup with only water.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They make a great alternative to makeup remover wipes, especially if you have chemical sensitivities towards cleansers.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Just rub away stains with soap and water after using and then pop in the washing machine for a thorough clean when needed.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Biodegradable wet wipes</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you can’t get to the sink to say goodbye to wet wipes, then there are biodegradable options, for face and body.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.superdrug.com/Skin/Face-Skin-Care/Face-Wipes/Simple-Biodegradable-Cleansing-Face-Wipes-20-PC/p/775266">Simple Biodegradable Cleansing Face Wipes</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£3.65 for 20 wipes. (Often on offer)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.superdrug.com/Skin/Face-Skin-Care/Face-Wipes/NIVEA-Biodegradable-Aloe-Vera-Cleansing-Wipes-x25/p/780080">Nivea Biodegradable Aloe Vera Cleansing Wipes</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£3.29 for 25 wipes. (Often on offer)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/natracare/natracare-organic-cotton-intimate-wipes/">Natracare Intimate Wipes</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£2.19 for 12. (It makes me laugh when products are awkwardly called “intimate”. I suppose crotch cloths wouldn’t have the same delicate ring.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Cheeky-Panda-Biodegradable-Bamboo-Wipes/dp/B07KTXT5XC/ref=sr_1_7?keywords=biodegradable+wet+wipes&qid=1582644031&sr=8-7">The Cheeky Panda Biodegradable Baby Wipes</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£2.99 for 64 bamboo wipes. If it’s suitable for babies, then it’s probably fine for us sensitive lot.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Biodegradable-Wipes-Perfect-Solution-Essentials/dp/B07MK1WS7Z/ref=sr_1_12?keywords=biodegradable+wet+wipes&qid=1582644031&sr=8-12">Ace Travel Buddy Wipes</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£8.49 for 32.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A bit on the pricey side but these are specifically to use instead of showering and so boast that they don’t leave residue. I’ve had a fellow sufferer recommend them for that too, so if wipes put you off because of that then maybe this is a good shout.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Ear Cleaning</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Most of us won’t even think about this when doing an order online, but a lot of cotton buds use plastic stems, and that builds up pretty quickly. Instead you could try…</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Paper or bamboo stemmed cotton buds</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Most supermarkets do these if you keep an eye out but you can also find some here:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.boobalou.co.uk/go-bamboo-bamboo-cotton-buds.html">Eco Living Bamboo Cotton Buds</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£2.49 for 100</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/products/simply-gentle-organic-cotton-buds/sgbuds.aspx?productid=sgbuds">Simply Gentle Organic Paper Stemmed Cotton Buds</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£2.45 for approx 200</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Metal ear picks/scoops</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Now I have some of these and I love them, but they are essentially tiny metal spoons that you poke in your ears. BE CAREFUL. If you have tremors or fall down a lot then maybe don’t put metal sticks in your ears where you can jab yourself really easily.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">That said, they do give a really good clean and are completely reusable and easy to sanitise.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Removal-ETEREAUTY-Cleaner-Storage-Stainless/dp/B071ZBBZYT/ref=asc_df_B071ZBBZYT/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=310569029981&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14144276999839051828&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9041117&hvtargid=pla-564024861815&psc=1">These are from amazon</a> and are £8.99 for a set but you can shop around. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Toilet paper and Tissues</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You thought I was done with toilets when I started in on the loo brush, didn’t you? Oh no, my friend. Even recycled toilet paper exists and I’m here to show you. Aren’t you so glad you read this post?</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This isn’t something we’ve added into our household yet, mainly because I don’t do the household shopping, but… one day!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.boobalou.co.uk/ecoleaf-recycled-toilet-paper.html">Eco Leaf Recycled Toilet Paper</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£2.15 for 4 rolls. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://uk.whogivesacrap.org/">Who Gives A Crap</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This brand name though. I want to buy everything from them just because they’re clearly my people. They do tissues, loo roll and paper towels all from recycled paper and 50% of their profits go to making toilets for those in need. And their packaging is amazing. Can you tell I’m a fan? One day I'll buy all the things. I have bought a couple of boxes of tissues which were pretty reasonable at £1.50 a box.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£24 for 24 rolls. £36 for 48 rolls.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDI2_9c9ukH59OhpkAT2glPC4uQhkULcKvZHsGCoagfUz_qjbu5Gtyt8T0LDaQpd8UoiLXne_59Sklhw0qfrYa2FqG0S-8GbSbjYRVyjPac84kJ4kRD4QtRDqg_8BUxwQdgHjyEwwHUdt/s1600/WGAC_ProductPhotos_2018Packaging_TransparentBG_DLGroupShot_1024x1024.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1024" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUDI2_9c9ukH59OhpkAT2glPC4uQhkULcKvZHsGCoagfUz_qjbu5Gtyt8T0LDaQpd8UoiLXne_59Sklhw0qfrYa2FqG0S-8GbSbjYRVyjPac84kJ4kRD4QtRDqg_8BUxwQdgHjyEwwHUdt/s320/WGAC_ProductPhotos_2018Packaging_TransparentBG_DLGroupShot_1024x1024.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nail Care</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Glass nail files</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Glass nail files not only last much, much longer than your usual emery boards, but they work much faster, so you use less energy getting rid of any splits or breakages. They’re also meant to be much healthier for your nails, so that’s a win all round.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Trim cotton pads</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">When removing nail polish I like to cut my cotton pads into quarters. I can then get all my nail varnish off with just two cotton pads instead of four or five. (I reuse a couple of pieces for the last two nails.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This works in conjunction with...</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nail clips</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Using smaller pieces of cotton pads soaked in nail polish remover is much easier when you have <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Polish-Remover-Clips-Plastic-Acrylic/dp/B082F537NH/ref=asc_df_B082F537NH/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=399634357094&hvpos=1o5&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10587827689555967754&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9041117&hvtargid=pla-854647078275&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=81860410981&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=399634357094&hvpos=1o5&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10587827689555967754&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9041117&hvtargid=pla-854647078275">nail clips</a>, and it allows you to clip each quarter to your nail and just lie back and rest while it eats away at the polish. No more scrubbing, and a lot of saved energy.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reusable Polish Pads</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you don’t want to use disposable cotton pads at all you can also find <a href="https://www.tabithaeve.co.uk/collections/bathroom/products/five-reusable-nail-polish-remover-wipes">reusable bamboo ones at Tabitha Eve</a>. It's £4.50 for 5 but you have to remember to rinse while wet, so if that’s going to be tricky to do (or remember) maybe give that one a miss.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Peelable Base Coat</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can avoid the chemicals, waste and work of taking off nail polish by using a reelable base coat. These are usually water based, and form a coating on the nail that allows you to peel any nail varnish you use from the nail. A bit like how you used to peel PVA from your hands in school.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The best one I’ve found is <a href="https://rainbow-connection.co.uk/products/ready-for-takeoff-peelable-base-coat">UNT 'Ready for Take off’</a> which is £8.50 on Rainbow Connection. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One of my favourite YouTubers, Cristine at Simply Nailogical also makes one, but I haven’t been able to afford to buy it from Canada. She has, however, made a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uAmoRe50sHQ">video of tips</a> to stop the nail polish peeling off too soon when you’re wearing a peel off base coat.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Non-toxic Nail polish</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If it’s the polish itself that worries you, here are some great options that don’t contain toxins found in regular nail polish.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.butterlondon.com/">Butter London</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Toxin free nail brand. I’ve bought from these guys before not even knowing that their polish is toxin-free because it’s all stunning. Not cheap but goes on like a dream with bottle from anywhere from £11-15 (keep an eye out for sales though, they happen fairly regularly and you can snap up stuff for a fiver). I have a metallic red from them that only needs one coat to be perfect. ONE. COAT.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They’re also expanding into makeup</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For some reason I can only find their US website, but their stuff is available on 3rd party websites like Nail Polish Direct or Look Fantastic.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.zoyapolish.co.uk/">Zoya</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Another brand that is from the US but that is available in the UK. Toxic ingredients have been removed from their formulas, so you can feel more comfortable using them. I’ve not used them personally so I can’t tell you about the quality but they’ve been going for years and have over 400 colours so I’m willing to bet they’re alright.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Little-Ondine-Natural-Polish-Morning/dp/B00Z2155MA/ref=lp_10227611031_1_1_s_it?s=luxury-beauty&ie=UTF8&qid=1581353318&sr=1-1">Little Ondine</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Something slightly different, this brand works with a peelable nail polish formula boasting no odour, therefore eliminating the need for nail polish removers all together.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have used these (I won some in a competition!) and they are good, but as a crafty person I found it a little difficult to keep them on my fingers. Although that may be the overwhelming urge to peel them off as soon as they’re on. So. Satisfying.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Available in the US but it would appear they’re only available in the UK via Amazon. Limited shades in the UK but many more if you’re in the US or Canada.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Medical</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Not much in the way of stuff for the medical cabinet, and honestly, most of us have enough stuff to sink a battle ship on that front anyway but…</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pot of pills vs blister pack</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Most of us don’t have much of a choice on this one, especially with the amount of pills we end up taking, but if you have a choice between a blister pack and a pot, the pot is more recyclable.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you have more difficulty opening pots though, then it is totally fine to skip this tip. Health first.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Biodegradable plasters</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.boobalou.co.uk/patch-biodegradable-plasters.html">Patch Biodegradable bamboo plasters</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">£6.95 for 25. Silicone and latex free.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNxZswD54009wQYfMc03ZwjgJHRvkTpWdmXLEjE8DSdjG5flahirfNPXLTA7HGeVByl4pSKga_bbvIJ-MYXIfGCOgGi3nB4k3KVyqfrto9fGtCvYlRihWKy2bxyMr7Szxq0nbse261UAg/s1600/natural.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1110" data-original-width="820" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNxZswD54009wQYfMc03ZwjgJHRvkTpWdmXLEjE8DSdjG5flahirfNPXLTA7HGeVByl4pSKga_bbvIJ-MYXIfGCOgGi3nB4k3KVyqfrto9fGtCvYlRihWKy2bxyMr7Szxq0nbse261UAg/s320/natural.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Green Period Products</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Before we get into this section I just want to reiterate that the point of this post is to do things that you feel capable of doing, not for you to make things difficult for yourself.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In my experience, eco-friendly priori products are great, but they’re also much more high maintenance, which isn’t ideal if you’re disabled or chronically ill.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you can’t get out of bed easily, it’s going to be much more difficult to check your biodegradable pad is holding up a few times a day. Also, some things aren’t going to perform as well when you have to lie down 90% of the time.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For that reason, I want to make it clear that a. It’s ok if you can’t manage things in this section, and b. That it’s ok to mix these things in with less green options.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Currently, I use my mainstream, less-green period products for my first two days, when all I can do is lie in bed and grumble, and switch to eco products when things become a bit easier for me to handle, and my energy is at a slightly higher level.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hopefully over time I’ll be able to find more and more things that work for me so I can slowly use the plastic heavy options less and less.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Menstrual Cups</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve not tried a menstrual cup yet, because to be honest I’m not sure how something that relies on a seal would hold up when I’m horizontal most of the time.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re a bed bound or housebound person and you’ve tried them, give us a shout in the comment and let us know how you got on.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The pro is fairly obvious on this one, because you only need to buy one, and it will last for years.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The con is that it needs to be washed between insertions (and boiled regularly) so if you’re not up to cleaning things then this might not be for you.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can however get a <a href="https://www.pixiecup.com/product/pixie-cup-steamer/">menstrual cup steamer</a>, that means you don't have to sterilise it manually (although it will need washing by hand, obviously). Apparently you can also buy a baby bottle steamer for this as it can be cheaper.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There also has been some <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/menstrual-cup-misuse-pelvic-prolapse-risk-a9394211.html">discussion</a> over whether improper removal of menstrual cups can lead to issues later, like prolapse, but there haven't been any official studies done as yet, and even those discussing it mention it's the <i>improper</i> use that's the problem.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Provided you make sure the seal created by the cup is properly broken before removal and don't push the cup out yourself it should be fine.</span></span><br />
(I was wondering whether to add this in at all but as it's been discussed in the medical community it felt remiss not to at least mention it so you could research it further and form your own opinion on the legitimacy of those claims.)</div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you want to one a try then here are some brands.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.organicup.com/product/organicup/">Organi Cup</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://divacup.com/our-products/">Diva cup</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1243079207"></span><span id="goog_1243079208"></span><br /></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.mooncup.co.uk/buy-the-mooncup/?gclid=CjwKCAjwgbLzBRBsEiwAXVIygPWWc4y-4uDeWM1D3XeeOCUS00uICO77py6rQatzQ1QdQwUHGrFSqhoCpHYQAvD_BwE">Moon Cup</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://uk.lunette.com/collections/lunette-menstrual-cups?utm_term=%2Bmenstrual%20%2Bcup&utm_campaign=UK+Cups&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=2453304297&hsa_cam=6500557176&hsa_grp=83667213088&hsa_ad=388186230197&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-37422216237&hsa_kw=%2Bmenstrual%20%2Bcup&hsa_mt=b&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gclid=CjwKCAjwgbLzBRBsEiwAXVIygHTeRNzCdf2QkxIajcrnlYmkudIeacmXKvBOZeI0MndtkjFYeySqFhoC0B8QAvD_BwE">Lunette</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://letsnixit.com/products/nixit-menstrual-cup?variant=15856471736392&currency=GBP&gclid=CjwKCAjwgbLzBRBsEiwAXVIygCMKe1PAADu4AHDl8N7YQYJlesaTdo-2DmRg-bnJT0FDjt7VMEWoPxoCLvgQAvD_BwE">Nixit</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here’s <a href="https://www.earthwisegirlsuk.co.uk/choosingmenstrualcups-g-23.html?gclid=CjwKCAjwgbLzBRBsEiwAXVIygARSu5akW0AInLxQwrRoyqijXRrbkhR2diVlShbLx0Gd42nKWtiJUhoCMCQQAvD_BwE">a handy guide</a> on how to choose which cup is right for you from Earthwise Girls. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reusable Tampon applicators</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re a tampon user then you can get <a href="https://wearedame.co/?utm_source=DAME.+%E2%80%93+Conversions&utm_medium=Lookalike+Video+Watchers+-+UK+-+25-35+-+F&utm_campaign=Facebook_https://wearedame.co/?utm_source=DAME.+%E2%80%93+Conversions&utm_medium=Lookalike+Video+Watchers+-+UK+-+25-35+-+F&utm_campaign=Facebook_Ads&utm_content=Most+Comfortable+App+-+GifAds&utm_content=Most+Comfortable+App+-+Gif">a reusable applicator</a> to cut down on plastic use. You can also use these with…</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Organic and Biodegradable tampons, sanitary towels, and liners</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Whether you prefer tampons, sanitary pads or liners, there’s a whole host of companies that make biodegradable options so you can have the comfort without the plastic.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m experimenting with different pad brands at the most and I’ll likely give a more in depth review another time. Until then the only thing I’d say is err on the side of caution and go for a more absorbent pad than you’d otherwise use, and place them further forward than you otherwise would.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Totm</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Selling tampons, pads, liners and menstrual cups, Totm are a sustainable brand with everything, from bright packaging to product being biodegradable. They also give a percentage of their products to charities such as Binti International and Endometriosis UK.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.totm.com/shop/liners/">Liners</a>, from £3.25 for 28</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.totm.com/shop/non-applicators/">Tampons</a>, from £2.95 for 14</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.totm.com/shop/pads/">Pads</a>, from £3.30 for 9</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Callaly</i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Callaly offer fully biodegradable tampons, liners, and pads, but also a fourth product that they've developed: a tampliner. The tampliner is a hybrid product that combines a tampon with an attached liner to help provide extra protection when you feel you need it without doubling up on products (and creating more waste).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">You can also build your own box and mix and match your products to suit you.</span><br />
<a href="https://www.calla.ly/gb/products/organic-cotton-liners">Liners</a>, from £6 for 24<br />
<a href="https://www.calla.ly/gb/products/organic-cotton-tampons">Tampons</a> from £7.20 for 24<br />
<a href="https://www.calla.ly/gb/products/organic-cotton-pads">Pads</a> from from £8 for 16<br />
<a href="https://www.calla.ly/gb/products/organic-cotton-tampliners">Tampliners</a> from £8 for 16<br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Natracare</i> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Vegan, and organic, Natracare offer liners, pads of all kinds, tampons, and maternity pads. They seem to be one of the more easily accessible eco-brands. I’m not entirely sure their packaging is biodegradable, I couldn’t find whether or not it’s plastic.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/natracare/natracare-organic-cotton-panty-liners---mini----30/">Liners</a>, £1.79 for 30</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/natracare/natracare-organic-cotton-tampons---regular---20/">Tampons</a> £2.59 for 20</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/natracare/natracare-organic-cotton-ultra-pads---super-with-wings---12/">Pads</a>, £2.49 for 12</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/natracare/natracare-organic-cotton-new-mother-maternity-pads---10/">Maternity Pads</a>, £2.59 for 10</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Grace & Green</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Another brand that supports various NGOs around the world working against period poverty. Natural, 100% organic, sleek and simple biodegradable packaging. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/grace---green/grace---green-organic-cotton-panty-liners---pack-of-24/">Liners</a>, £4.85 for 24</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/grace---green/grace---green-organic-cotton-non-applicator-tampons---regular---pack-of-18/">Tampons</a>, £4.29 for 18</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/grace---green/grace---green-organic-cotton-pads-with-wings---day---pack-of-10/">Pads</a>, £4.85 for 10</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Flo</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Flo have a fun brand look and give 5% of their profits to charities to end both period poverty and FGM. Vegan, cruelty-free, organic and biodegradable, they also offer packs of varying absorbencies of products, so you can change what you’re using based on the heaviness of your flow.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/flo/flo-natural-bamboo-daily-ultra-thin-panty-liners---pack-of-24/">Liners</a> £2.20 for 24</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/flo/flo-organic-non-applicator-tampons-regular---super-combo-pack---pack-of-16/">Tampons</a> £2.99 for 16</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/flo/flo-natural-bamboo-ultra-thin-winged-pads-day---night-combo-pack---pack-of-15/">Pads</a> £2.99 for 15</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Tsuno</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tsuno is an Australian brand, that gives a whopping 50% of their profits to charities that focus on empowering women, education and menstrual support.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Again, organic and biodegradable, and their packaging features various artist’s work (which I obviously love).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/tsuno/tsuno-bamboo-ultra-thin-panty-liners---20/">Liners</a>, £2.69 for 20</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/tsuno/tsuno-organic-cotton-tampons---super---pack-of-16/">Tampons</a>, £3.29 for 16</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/tsuno/tsuno-bamboo-regular-pads---ultra-thin---winged---10/">Pads</a>, £2,95 for 10</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Eco by Naty</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Naty seems to focus on nappies and baby wipes, but they do period products as well. Pads and liners are over 95% biodegradable, and tampons 100%. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/nature-babycare/nature-womencare-panty-liners-normal/">Liners</a>, £2.57 for 32</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/nature-babycare/naty-nature-tampons-applicator---regular---16-pcs/">Tampons</a>, £3,99 for 16</span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/nature-babycare/naty-nature-womencare-sanitary-towel---normal-plus---pack-of-13-1/">Pads</a>, £2.57 for 13</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Fabric sanitary towels and liners</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There are loads of brands around that do reusable cloth pads and liners, so you might want to do your own research, just because some have awesome patterns, some have awesome stats, and you need to decide what’s the most important to you.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Also what you don’t want.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I, for one, draw the line at a brand called “Honour Your Flow”. I’m much more likely to buy from a brand called “Give me chocolate or give me death”, because I do not feel like anything is being honoured when I can barely move for two to three days a month and that name would more accurately cover my experience.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.awastefreeworld.com/products/reusable-sanitary-pad-donald-trump?variant=15508504903743&currency=GBP&gclid=CjwKCAiAvonyBRB7EiwAadauqYKRWRtjiPinuKBHzhMOXFxDmSpr3y2GtY1uQ6u49V3CONk2r4KHWhoC1ZQQAvD_BwE">These ones</a> have pictures of Trump’s face on them, I kid you not. I can’t tell if that’s hilarious or the most horrifying thing I’ve ever seen.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.awastefreeworld.com/products/reusable-sanitary-pad-hot-dogs?_pos=5&_sid=363fba436&_ss=r">These ones</a> however, have hot dogs on them which is straight up amazing. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.naturalcollection.com/shop/imsevimse-black-dot-reusable-panty-liners---pack-of-3-by-imsevimse/?PCode=DSGPESS15&gclid=CjwKCAiAvonyBRB7EiwAadauqTgik9AZPuiAm21EPnlV-5DIu_cprbPRlqGFwmNvfG4uFrLq9tePxhoC4wQQAvD_BwE">Imsevimse reusable panty liners</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pack of three £12.50-13.50 depending on the vendor.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve got some of these and they’re really handy, especially if you’re not entirely sure when you’re going to start so you don’t want to break out the big guns yet.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/shop/product/bloom-and-nora-midi-triple-pack-reusable-pads-60036430?skuid=036430&utm_campaign=shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&&gclid=CjwKCAiAvonyBRB7EiwAadauqWCXwlAiAta7VW6vmZHg87_8zKWBct4MySgrRC0Tyn5mlGYqz1i3DBoCPrQQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">Bloom and Nora </a></span></span></div>
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Pack of three £18.99 depending on the venue. </div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.cheekywipes.com/cloth-sanitary-pads-kits.html">Cotton or bamboo pads by Cheeky Wipes</a></span></span></div>
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Cheeky wipes do a range of different reusable pads and liners in various fabrics from £3.30 for a single pad.<br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cheeky Wipes also do their own version of…</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Period Pants</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For those who wish to go without any added bulk, or want extra protection when wearing another period product, you can also try period pants. These, as the name suggests, are pants with an added layer of absorbent padding in the gusset. (There’s a pleasant word for us all. Gusset.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They come in a variety of styles, colour, and most importantly, levels of absorption.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is one where you really have to do your own research to find a good match, but here are someplace to start.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Like with the reusable liners and pads they do require washing, so if you’re not up to that, or don’t have anyone available (or willing) to do it for you then this might not be the option for you. If you do, make sure you soak or rinse them in cold water before washing.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.cheekywipes.com/period-pants-uk.html">Cheeky Wipes</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://eu.modibodi.com/?geolizr_redirect=off">Modibodi</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.shethinx.com/collections/thinx-shop-all?gclid=CjwKCAiAvonyBRB7EiwAadauqWEf7qDBDPLBPyuBhxwT3toOOIZueCNJHTOVGGiyQDQCmPFlzd3HVRoCr0EQAvD_BwE">Thinx</a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.fluxundies.com/?gclid=CjwKCAiAvonyBRB7EiwAadauqZP4x1lNn_EK8KWUHfgkebBW5gD3ZyO7TfmT8-Ib6t7G1OF35TzdShoC63QQAvD_BwE">Flux</a></span></span></div>
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For the fourth and final instalment we'll be looking at an eco wardrobe, keeping your house insulated, eco-electrics, and online options to make the world a better place.<br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-one.html">PART ONE</a> ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-two.html">PART TWO</a> ~ PART THREE ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-four.html">PART FOUR</a></span></span></div>
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Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-62903397230370475642020-04-08T11:56:00.000+01:002020-04-22T11:24:34.177+01:00A Housebound Eco Guide: Part Two<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-one.html">PART ONE</a> ~ PART TWO ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-three.html">PART THREE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-four.html">PART FOUR</a></span></div>
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Hello my lovely loves!</div>
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Let's jump right in and head to the bathroom for eco makeup, haircare and dental health! Let's see if we can save you money, energy and the planet.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Contact Lens Recycling </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Contact lens wearers can also do their bit by giving their lens waste to <a href="https://www.acuvue.co.uk/recycle">Acuvue who run a recycling programme</a> in partnership with TerraCycle. They have drop off points at various participating opticians which you can find online. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Accepted items include any brand of blister packaging, foil, or soft, disposable contact lenses (daily, 2-weekly or monthly).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Mascara Wand Donation</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">You may have seen an image doing the rounds social media about a wildlife centre in Aberdeenshire requesting old mascara wands to clean and brush animals. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’ve double checked and that centre is no longer accepting donations (they have ended up with an absurd number and literally don’t have room for any more), but it might be worth asking your local wildlife centres if that’s something they’d be interested in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Eco-Makeup</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Just because you’re sick doesn’t mean you don’t want to look good, so as well as reusing mascara wands, there are also more products becoming available in the realms of eco-friendly makeup.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://ecostardust.com/">Eco Stardust</a> is a company that creates plant-based biodegradable glitter, which the craft-person in me is very happy about. I’m waiting impatiently for them to add iridescent glitter to their books.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">They also run a <a href="https://ecostardust.com/pages/non-bioglitter-amnesty">non-bioglitter amnesty</a>, where people can send in their plastic based glitter and receive a 15% voucher from their store. This glitter is then recycled into more long term projects, like the creation of resin jewellery. 10% of their profits also go to various charities to help clean the oceans.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT9y-9Lgz3OB6_7zlI39Iw4QGHCSzl-8vVNAcNuHnxMIu4ppM0VU_-GzmD2AbazCgLboMVdLGCHAwp3BATD7PYJEloUNzzlmKwFkyYpYZN2dnDFmzAQ38B-5wmWPsd67_n9xvIY2kqbWvD/s1600/il_570xN.1715667364_d6x3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="538" data-original-width="570" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT9y-9Lgz3OB6_7zlI39Iw4QGHCSzl-8vVNAcNuHnxMIu4ppM0VU_-GzmD2AbazCgLboMVdLGCHAwp3BATD7PYJEloUNzzlmKwFkyYpYZN2dnDFmzAQ38B-5wmWPsd67_n9xvIY2kqbWvD/s320/il_570xN.1715667364_d6x3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If eyeliner is your thing you can even find <a href="https://beautifullyorganic.co.uk/zao-refillable-liquid-brush-eyeliner/">refillable liquid eyeliner from Zao</a>, or go for a more double-duty option and look at products that double as mascara and eyeliner (and, if you’re careful, eyebrow filler), like cake mascaras. There are a few of these around, from smaller specifically eco-brands like <a href="https://bekindbeauty.co.uk/product/bain-and-savon-vegan-mascara-cake/?attribute_colour=Brown&gclid=Cj0KCQiA4sjyBRC5ARIsAEHsELHME3c4t47gr3-8qWf4WKbdLgDdeA_YwYzzadNA19Yoz1tudEeY7kYaAtJ2EALw_wcB">Bain and Savon</a>, or larger ones like <a href="https://besamecosmetics.com/">Bésame</a>. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’ve got to say I treated myself to <a href="https://besamecosmetics.com/products/black-cake-mascara">the Bésame one</a>, because it’s a specifically vintage-themed brand, and that’s my jam. The tin it comes in is to die for, and once you’ve finished the cake you can buy refills. They also do cream rouges that would work as an eco-option.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTxY-SQO0JawzNHb_gqDFfQp-zshhENYLoe8pmR0orJsZhtNd5_WaUdE7X9dN7Dn-ibj21i4N44Ffx4ZNUxJsPftnMU-QxRgmqNlGTsyT6u-xd0yESC49i_oTxmMkNK9CaiSN3imsl2Hy_/s1600/518ezkx5ReL._SX355_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="245" data-original-width="355" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTxY-SQO0JawzNHb_gqDFfQp-zshhENYLoe8pmR0orJsZhtNd5_WaUdE7X9dN7Dn-ibj21i4N44Ffx4ZNUxJsPftnMU-QxRgmqNlGTsyT6u-xd0yESC49i_oTxmMkNK9CaiSN3imsl2Hy_/s320/518ezkx5ReL._SX355_.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span>You can also DIY your own eyebrow gel by using glycerin soap. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I know soap brows are something of a trend already, but they're worth mentioning not only because they don't end up using many plastic tubes of gel, but because they are cheaper and (in my opinion) work better than bought brow gel.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Just get a bar of glycerin soap (I use Pear's original - the blue one works too, but you risk having a slight blue tint if you use too much), dampen a clean mascara wand, rub it in the soap and brush through your brow. Job done.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If this is something you’d be interested in, I’d really recommend checking out these two articles on brands that keep ethics in mind.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">The first is from<a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/fashion-beauty/make-up/best-organic-makeup-lipstick-natural-foundation-eyeliner-vegan-cruelty-free-a8934636.html"> the Independent</a>, and the second from <a href="https://www.sustainablejungle.com/best-of-sustainable-beauty/zero-waste-make-up/">Sustainable Jungle</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Eco-Shampoo</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Shampoo can be a difficult one, simply because the act of washing hair can be exhausting, and ingredients can irritate our skin more than usual, but there are some options we can try if you’re up to it. Again, if not, that’s fine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Shampoo Bars</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Shampoo bars are a great way of ditching plastic packaging associated with hair care. Much like soap, you lather them up, either in your hands or on your hair, and then wash.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">The pro of this is that shampoo bars are usually lighter than shampoo bottles, but some don’t foam quite as easily as liquid shampoo so they may require a little more scrubbing. Some options are available that contain SLS (sodium laureth sulphate), which are more like traditional shampoos.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Those without SLS tend to contain more oils, like coconut oil, which often mean you may need to seal the hair after with conditioner, or, if you prefer an acid rinse. Some people, however, get on fine just using the shampoo bars and nothing else.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">For those options that don’t contain SLS it may take a little time for your hair to adjust to the new formula.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Many brands also offer conditioner bars as well as shampoo.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Here are some options with good reviews.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://uk.lush.com/hair-care/shampoo">Lush</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£8 for 100g bar. A more expensive option, but with many different scents available. Contains SLS, so maybe be better suited to those who prefer a more traditional shampoo.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.thelittlegoatsoapcompany.co.uk/product-category/shampoo-bar/">The Little Goat Soap Company</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£4.50 per 100g bar, and come in unscented options if you have problems with perfumes. No SLS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.naturalsoap.co.uk/shop_shampoosoaps.htm">The Natural Soap Company</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Again, £4.50 per 100g bar, with a variety of scents. No unscented options as yet. No SLS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/friendly-soap/friendly-soap-natural-shampoo-bar---lavender---tea-tree---95g/">Friendly</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£2.60 per 95g bar. Variety of scents. No SLS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://nutandnoggin.com/">Nut and Noggin </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£15 per 150g bar. More expensive, but £1 of each bar goes to charities helping young people facing mental health issues. This one also seems to be pretty popular with people who’ve never tried shampoo bars before.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://beautykubes.co.uk/">Beauty Kubes</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£9.50 for 27 individual shampoo or conditioner cubes that dissolve to be used. Each cube has the exact amount you need each time. Plus you can also <a href="https://beautykubes.co.uk/collections/candles">order samples</a> for much cheaper to give them a go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Rather than specific fragrances, there are different formulations designed to cater to different hair types. No SLS.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Plastic Free Brands</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you’re certain you want a liquid shampoo then these brands do exist, but they are really expensive. <a href="https://www.weareparadoxx.com/">We Are Paradoxx</a>, for example, are an entirely plastic free haircare brand but it’s £18 for a bottle of shampoo.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If I win the lottery maybe I’ll check this option out...</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Avoid Black Plastic</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If shampoo bars aren’t going to work for you, and other options are (understandably) outside your price range then try to avoid haircare that comes in black plastic bottle. It’s apparently harder to recycle than other options.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">There are also some shampoo brands that either use recycled materials for their bottles, or donate to recycling schemes, or have recyclable bottles. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I currently use <a href="https://goodbubble.co.uk/values">Good Bubble</a> shampoo and conditioner. It’s formulated for children so it doesn’t irritate my scalp (a rarity), it’s inexpensive, and the packaging is recyclable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">For more info on eco-shampoo you can check out these articles. One from <a href="https://www.standard.co.uk/shopping/esbest/beauty/hair/best-shampoo-bars-uk-a4052631.html">the Standard</a>, and one from <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/christmasgifts/fashion-beauty/shampoo-hair-soap-plastic-free-green-beauty-environmentally-friendly-a8505026.html">the Independent</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Siliscrub brush</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">This one is a bit random, but I’ve been trying to think of a way to tell you guys about it for ages. Consider a <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/SILISCRUB-Original-Silicone-Shampoo-Brush/dp/B07JJ4L8FB">silicrub brush</a>; a silicone brush that you use to help wash your hair. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’ve used one for a while. No only does it create a better lather, so less shampoo is needed in the first place (yay green), it saves SO much energy. I feel like I’m getting a much cleaner and less irritated scalp, my dandruff has improved significantly, and it doesn’t hurt or wear out my hands in the way that scrubbing used to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">10/10, would recommend.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPq0Ke_R4wh_zrM97yLTarnQ3Uqg8953LHPEcjhaF6ia98KNVruXE7X7S69yDPgb615R-grZHyNkO5te-hk0nBnaz03pYF5S3k1AO1R1QXvfjYJFiIK4y2MLXdfpmwI5sBCeo-v04DgeQx/s1600/4160ZqFKSGL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPq0Ke_R4wh_zrM97yLTarnQ3Uqg8953LHPEcjhaF6ia98KNVruXE7X7S69yDPgb615R-grZHyNkO5te-hk0nBnaz03pYF5S3k1AO1R1QXvfjYJFiIK4y2MLXdfpmwI5sBCeo-v04DgeQx/s320/4160ZqFKSGL.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Eco Dry Shampoo</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">We all know that as much as you might want to wash your hair, sometimes it just ain’t happening. All hail the dry shampoo. Although aerosol cans are technically more recyclable than plastic, it’s better still to avoid them if possible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">It’s also very hard to find unscented aerosol dry shampoos, so here the eco market actually might have the advantage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.boobalou.co.uk/kitenest-organic-dry-shampoo-for-dark-tones.html">KiteNest Dry Shampoo</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">A 140g Tube is £9.95, but you can also get 200g refills thereafter for £5.95, so it's a pretty decent price. They also come in a lighter and darker option to blend better with your hair. It’s made from plant powders and clays.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj044yItPxEuQ1igXSMwTxU-lHATJvikVDCoC4oFSkzqyKa9G_qlKqc6bDLx-gFGg0cA0DlSKVLAbzt3lHFXS1R2PUTR7-sHDPBDyhJ08_XhQoSjnZlK9fh39zVDuUnjOx2KG4TGcm7vvD_/s1600/kitenest-Organic-Dry-Shampoo-Dark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj044yItPxEuQ1igXSMwTxU-lHATJvikVDCoC4oFSkzqyKa9G_qlKqc6bDLx-gFGg0cA0DlSKVLAbzt3lHFXS1R2PUTR7-sHDPBDyhJ08_XhQoSjnZlK9fh39zVDuUnjOx2KG4TGcm7vvD_/s320/kitenest-Organic-Dry-Shampoo-Dark.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’ve given this one a go and I think it’s actually pretty good. There is a lime and Grapefruit scent, but it’s very faint, so even my sharp nose can’t really tell unless I inhale directly (which I wouldn’t recommend). It definitely made my hair look less greasy and didn’t irritate my scalp.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">One thing I would say with these type of applicators is that it’s much better to sprinkle some into your hand first, or you may end up with a bit too much.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/shop/product/karine-jackson-the-volumiser-dry-shampoo-60048661?skuid=048661&utm_campaign=shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&&gclid=CjwKCAiAsIDxBRAsEiwAV76N85AbhGfB8TU9tBO6ZoyoEK62o1InhtwUdOQF_iMp-nAgTq6j8cKu8hoC4LEQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds">Karine Jackson Dry Shampoo and Volumiser</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">This one comes in at £12 for 35g, which seems kind of ridiculous, but I guess it’s difficult to tell given how light powders are. In photos the tub looks bigger than the KiteNest one is, so I can’t tell you for certain which is the better deal,.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">The plus side of this is that there are only two ingredients in it, rice starch and vegetable extract of some kind. No scent, and no other irritants, which if you’re particularly sensitive might win you over.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Low flow showerhead</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">While you’re washing your hair you can also save water by using a low flow showerhead. These just screw into place on your current shower set up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">There are so many of these available that I honestly don’t know where to start. Instead of listing the pros and cons of various shower heads on this already worryingly long post, <a href="https://www.steamshowerparts.co.uk/buyers-guides/best-water-saving-shower-heads/">here is an article comparing some</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Eco Toilet Brush</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">This is what my life has become now. Discussing the best kind of toilet brushes for you to use. But I must attempt to accept my lot with grace and give you some options.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Wooden Toilet Brush</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">For a more traditional loo brush, you can skip the plastic and go for this weird chic <a href="https://www.boobalou.co.uk/plastic-free-toilet-brush-holder-set-smaller-brush.html">wooden brush and metal bucket from Boobalou</a>. It’s £9.75 for the smaller one, and the bucket comes in cream or silver.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you want to try something a little bit more updated there’s the kickstarter for the Flush Brush. This is a silicone brush that detaches from the handle, with the head left indirect flow of the toilet’s flush in a specific cradle. The handle can go in the provided stand. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">It’s meant to be more hygienic and longer lasting, particularly as you can replace the head and keep the handle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I don’t have a picture of this one, and honestly I’m not sure I can adequately explain it, so check out <a href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/flushbrush/flushbrush-an-evolution-in-toilet-cleaning">the Kickstarter here</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Hair Removal</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you’re happy being your fuzzy little self then there’s no reason to read this section, but if you prefer options for eco hair removal then here are some things you can consider:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Safety razors</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Double edged safety razors have been used since the 1900s as an alternative to cutthroat razors. They are shaped very similarly to modern razors but either unscrew or flip open. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Instead of having to replace the entire razor, or bulky, plastic heavy razor heads, the only thing that needs to be changed is the blade, and those blades are (obviously) metal, and therefore highly recyclable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I have one of these and I LOVE it. I was hesitant of these at first because they look a bit scary and I’m extremely clumsy when it comes to shaving, but I’m a complete convert. I haven’t cut myself ONCE. That doesn’t sound like a big deal, but it is.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">This has been my favourite green purchase because it looks lovely, irritates my skin less and has saved me SO much money.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I bought a long-handled safety razor from Edwin Jagger (long handled are recommended for use on the body and if you have grip problems) for £28. I could’ve saved myself money and got myself a cheaper one (they start from about £12), but I know myself well enough to know that once I saw one I thought was pretty I would invariably end up buying it at some point, and it would be cheaper to just buy the pretty one. It came with one razor blade.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">My step dad had an old bristle shaving brush he doesn’t use, so I got that for free, and then bought a starter pack of 25 razor blades for £5.95 and some shave soap for about £6.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">You don’t technically need special soap, a glycerin based one like pears will work fine, but I wanted to make sure I wasn’t going to get any skin irritation. And my one smells like almonds!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I also got a blade tin to put all my used blades to make recycling easier (the whole thing is recycled once full) and to prevent injuries on old blades.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzXjxjOQYLC2h8tJcdy_pKhaCdMBpeFfiqj3FZ9mgbeZDa0UXHxyl_sEQzk5xkc4CdQUuP2dMheRanduvBtTm9A7d_p8ppO34aDM3PgGtgBLx7BL6vPeIK8F21-jYUNNEoOYx0U_3ozWlS/s1600/IMG_8432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzXjxjOQYLC2h8tJcdy_pKhaCdMBpeFfiqj3FZ9mgbeZDa0UXHxyl_sEQzk5xkc4CdQUuP2dMheRanduvBtTm9A7d_p8ppO34aDM3PgGtgBLx7BL6vPeIK8F21-jYUNNEoOYx0U_3ozWlS/s320/IMG_8432.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">At that point a pack of four replacement razor heads was £20. For just over £40 I got a full shaving kit. I could have easily spent less. I’ve had it for just over ten months and I’ve not had to buy a thing towards shaving since. I’ve still got at least 8 blades left in the starter pack and I’ve barely made a dent in the shaving cream. (Would recommend the Shark and Astra blades the most.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I think shaving your face would mean you went through more blades, but it’s still so much cheaper, and so much better for the environment. And of course you’d be likely to have a shave brush or soap already, so you’d save money there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.peacewiththewild.co.uk/product/mutiny-double-edge-safety-razor/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAvJXxBRCeARIsAMSkApoykq14kZP2Qew8C3grRPjnBI47E7Yu3PcSL4N8zA2Tc4LvnMkanZkaAgqKEALw_wcB">Double edged Safety razor</a> with 5 Shark blades - £14</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">An extra pound for <a href="https://www.peacewiththewild.co.uk/product/mutiny-rose-gold-double-edge-safety-razor/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAvJXxBRCeARIsAMSkApoSzu3-jsuMPq8gCl2hQS_ykJKBDD2smWEmPPg6EkydFIph-DF-iDYaAmzWEALw_wcB">rose gold</a>!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">(Full disclosure, I’ve yet to use my safety razor on my legs so I can’t offer my personal experience on that front, but I know lots of people do and they’re really happy with the performance. I can personally say it’s great for underarms.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">The main difference between safety razors and modern ones is maintenance. You really have to make sure the razor is left clean and dry after each use to prevent rusting.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">At first I was worried I would find that too exhausting, but honestly I just run water through it thoroughly and then sit down on the lid of the loo, unscrew it fully and dry the pieces. I have to sit down after washing anyway, and if I’m not up to maintenance then I probably wouldn’t be up to shaving in the first place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Perhaps if it was something I did every day I might feel differently, but it’s actually quite therapeutic.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you don’t feel this is something you could manage, or you don’t feel comfortable (or safe) owning or handling open blades then there are plenty of other options.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Electric Shavers</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If the idea of using a safety razor sounds too exhausting then consider an electric shaver. Although they’re made of plastic and run on electricity, they’re rechargeable and don’t need to be replaced regularly.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">There’s also a big upside in that they’re used dry, so if you want to shave but have very little energy you can even stay in bed and use it. Although I’d maybe put a towel down first.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">It’s also not quite as close a shave, so regrowth is considerably less itchy and irritating.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOhyfU2dV-gx5reL_O0ksro-vuqJgEwhEsq9g_aQHGrDwa-jUu401xItz_PLdQVkuvpauZR0czT9HN_wyHw1dVeCOLn_cSDbp07AiluPxQ0szbk7RfTkALMKnWPjf1CE3RsYv_jfFA_-X/s1600/81kYmRerorL._SY355_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="355" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXOhyfU2dV-gx5reL_O0ksro-vuqJgEwhEsq9g_aQHGrDwa-jUu401xItz_PLdQVkuvpauZR0czT9HN_wyHw1dVeCOLn_cSDbp07AiluPxQ0szbk7RfTkALMKnWPjf1CE3RsYv_jfFA_-X/s320/81kYmRerorL._SY355_.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I use <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnitone-London-Rechargeable-Compact-Shaver/dp/B072N38VRZ">this one</a> for my legs and I love it. It’s very small so I don’t get tired using it and it doesn’t take up much space. I’ve had it over two year and it works just as well as the day I bought it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Am I rolling my eyes at it being called a “lady shaver”? Yes. Will I forgive them because it’s available in a pretty colour that isn’t pink? Also yes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you want you can also look into epilators or sugar waxing as a green hair removal alternative, but you’d be a braver human than me.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Dental Health</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Of all the areas where I’m most careful it’s this one. Despite my efforts my teeth have always had the strength of wet tissue, so I’m super careful when it comes to trying new things with them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you’re house- or bed-bound having regular dental health checkups is pretty difficult, so try to listen to your dentist’s advice. For example, mine is pretty clear that I need to be using a toothpaste that includes fluoride, so that discounts most green toothpaste options.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">There’s only one plastic free option I’ve found that contains fluoride and it’s this…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Plastic Free Toothpaste</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/ecoliving/ecoliving-toothpaste-tablets-with-fluoride/">Eco-Living Toothpaste tablets (with Fluoride)</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£3.50 for 62 tablets.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">These tablets are individual servings of your toothpaste that you just chew and use as normal. They come in a metal tin, and you can also buy packs of refills. Do be careful when choosing them because there are fluoride-free versions as well.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Although they are mint flavoured, I have actually tried these and it’s honestly a bit like chewing a minty dishwasher tablet, so don’t be shocked when you give them a go.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">They did clean my teeth well, but I was having some gum issues at the time, so I decided to give them a rest until I had a handle on that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Electric Toothbrushes and heads</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Electric toothbrushes are something I’d really recommend as an energy saver. It seems like a small thing, but it can really make a difference. I ended up asking for one for my birthday one year (what an exciting life I lead) and I haven’t regretted it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.livecoco.com/">Live Coco</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£8-10 for two recyclable heads (shop around)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you already have an electric toothbrush then you can get recyclable thermoplastic heads for certain models.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">This company makes ones for Oral B models that you can then collect and send back to them for recycling.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">These fit my toothbrush so I’ve ordered a couple to try!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://georganics.com/collections/toothbrushes">Georganics</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Georganics makes their own Sonic Toothbrush for £48.90, with replacement heads coming in at £6.90 for two.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">The entire toothbrush is recyclable by them, and their zero to landfill scheme allows you to save toothbrush heads and sonic handles (minimum 10 heads) and return them Freepost to Geroganics for recycling.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Biodegradable toothbrushes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you’re not able to splash out for an electric toothbrush there are plenty of biodegrade manual options made from wood.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://georganics.com/collections/toothbrushes">Georganics</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Beech toothbrushes from £4.40</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.pearlywhiteclub.co.uk/">Pearly White Club</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Subscription service. New biodegradable bamboo toothbrush every month or two. £25 a year for a new adult toothbrush every two months (£4.17 a brush)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://andkeep.com/collections/truthbrush">Truthbrush</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">From £3.60 per bamboo toothbrush. Variety of colours and the handles compostable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/bambaw/bambaw-bamboo-medium-toothbrushes---pack-of-4/?PCode=DSGPESS15&gclid=Cj0KCQiAjfvwBRCkARIsAIqSWlOTX5TJVC0HuH-cNo1LabtrqVaSt4D0a3Kse9tlbLs5GmYThQOAij4aAmR1EALw_wcB">Bambaw</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Pack of four bamboo brushes £10.99</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Bambaw support the fight against plastic pollution, donating a percentage of profits to charitable organisations The Plastic Soup Foundation and the 5 Gyres Institute.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Bristles recyclable, handles compostable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/products/humble-brush-adult-soft-blue/humadblue.aspx?productid=humadblue&utm_source=google&utm_medium=merchant_centre&utm_term=%7Bkeyword%7D&utm_campaign=merchant_centre&gclid=Cj0KCQjwjcfzBRCHARIsAO-1_Oq5sGoDyTVIYTBlwjeZkNnoadfWFiRmabtBGPXcbi5x3FM20h74EvgaAsH2EALw_wcB">Humble</a> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Bamboo brushes £3.99 per brush</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Every humble purchase goes towards funding oral health projects for children in need.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Handles compostable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Interdental brushes</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you need to get in between your teeth occasionally like me (yay, wisdom teeth), then you can also get eco interdental brushes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/shop/product/humble-bamboo-interdental-brush-0-4mm-8-pack-60033670?skuid=033670&utm_campaign=shopping&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&&gclid=Cj0KCQiAjfvwBRCkARIsAIqSWlO7gGzzYnc3QN2cl365sEkj5x2M3Q_g_r0gqd42P1cpuPwJAbvp2aYaAhYkEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds">Humble bamboo interdental brushes</a> are approximately £4 and come in a variety of thicknesses.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’m suuuuper picky about interdental brushes because the gaps between my teeth are really small, and I’m really happy with these.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">There are mixed reviews online about how long they last, but the thinnest ones last the same amount of time as my old plastic ones did, and I’ve not had any extra problems with the wire coming away from the handle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;">Floss</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’m yet to find a green alternative to my dental tape that will actually fit in between my teeth. Even normal floss won’t, I have to use a specific flat nylon tape or I spend a good 10 minutes hyperventilating when I can’t get the floss unstuck. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">You would think my teeth being so close together would mean they wouldn’t need flossing anyway. Nope. Still necessary.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you have any leads on one, please give me a shout in the comments. In the mean time, here are some options for people with teeth that aren’t determined to create an impenetrable wall.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/products/humble-dental-floss-picks-50-pack/humdentflosspic.aspx?productid=humdentflosspic&utm_source=google&utm_medium=merchant_centre&utm_term=%7Bkeyword%7D&utm_campaign=merchant_centre&gclid=Cj0KCQiAsbrxBRDpARIsAAnnz_PGU4aNcox_sgJIw9sD_AVT6YfkXSH9QQHDZJCn6E0KuUUbykfjWcMaAqoOEALw_wcB">Humble Dental Floss Picks</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£3.50 for 50 bamboo threaded picks (Also do normal floss in plastic container)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.mybamboobrush.co.uk/products/natural-charcoal-dental-floss-30-meters?variant=27200918421604&currency=GBP&gclid=Cj0KCQiAjfvwBRCkARIsAIqSWlMy4mKcLsCFAqFHK8k70Gxd5r5djm5H0HkxlRUJ02J8sbXkl7fbMQMaAhSuEALw_wcB">My Bamboo Brush charcoal dental floss </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£4.50 for 30 metres.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Natural-Candelilla-Stainless-Dispenser-Bambaw/dp/B07PN5MW34/ref=asc_df_B07PN5MW34/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=255999059422&hvpos=1o5&hvnetw=g&hvrand=4168807446441883735&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9041117&hvtargid=pla-767141115794&psc=1">Bambaw floss </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£6.29</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://www.anythingbutplastic.co.uk/product-page/dental-lace">Dental Lace </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£7.50 Comes in a glass bottle. Refills available.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://andkeep.com/products/georganics-natural-dental-floss-spearmint?variant=17370608926791&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&gclid=Cj0KCQiAsbrxBRDpARIsAAnnz_NAx6wuksMBRYyFV5FJM_JBoTA0mxYPaGAeBZYE0SKVYYaG-2d5xc0aAnNVEALw_wcB">Georganics Dental floss </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">£4.90. Comes in a glass bottle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’ve also heard about water picks that shoot a concentrated jet of water for you to clean in between your teeth, but honestly that sounds very tiring and messy to use. </span><br />
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Next time we'll be back to the bathroom for deodorant, ear care, nail care and menstrual options. Exciting times.<br />
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-one.html">PART ONE</a> ~ PART TWO ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-three.html">PART THREE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-four.html">PART FOUR</a></span></div>
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Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-88900069530792187112020-04-01T13:08:00.001+01:002020-04-22T11:24:15.520+01:00A Housebound Eco Guide: Part One<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">PART ONE ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-two.html">PART TWO</a> ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-three.html">PART THREE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-four.html">PART FOUR</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello my lovely loves!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Recently I’ve been worrying a lot about the planet. There’s a lot online and in the news about climate change and the proactive stance we all need to take in order to help the situation, and it can be incredibly stressful.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This is only compounded by the fact disabilities limit the things people can change because of their own health needs. Many energy saving tools or options are deemed wasteful or lazy by society at large, and that can be incredibly disheartening when you’re just trying to live your life without making your health worse.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There is a level of ableism that unfortunately seems to go hand in hand with environmental issues. We all know of the straw ban, where many abled (and some disabled) people seemed certain that disabled people didn’t REALLY need disposable plastic straws.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In case anyone is still unsure as to why that’s cobblers, here’s a helpful diagram.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So I’ve decided to create a list of things that many disabled people CAN potentially do to help even from your own house or bed, without damaging themselves. And some of them even save energy for the user! Win win.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This seems doubly useful given that currently everyone is stuck inside, so... hooray!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s a pretty massive post, so I’ve divided it up into several sections to make it easier to process, and will be releasing the posts throughout the month of April in celebration of Earth Day! There will also be a giveaway going on on social media, so keep an eye out for that!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Before we start I wasn’t to say: don’t feel pressured if you’re not able to do all of these things. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don’t do them all, either because I haven’t got round to it yet (many require an initial outlay) or because I’m simply not able to in deference to my condition. This isn’t about what you can’t do, it’s about doing what you <i>can</i>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There’s some debate about whether individual lifestyle changes are as impactful as larger structural changes, and I agree that larger structural changes need to be made in order to see the most successful benefits, but… why not both? There’s no reason we can’t look for small things for ourselves AND look at larger things. And for a lot of sick and disabled people, smaller things feel a little more manageable, when your energy or health is so depleted.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ll discuss other larger things later, but, for now, here’s a list of things you can try to change at home.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Let’s start in the kitchen! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Eco-eating</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reusable Containers at Supermarkets</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some shops and supermarkets allow you to use reusable containers to cut down on plastic waste. Sainsbury’s, for example, will let you (or whoever does your shopping for you) take reusable containers to their deli counters instead of using their plastic wrappings.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Home food deliveries</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Unless you’re able to walk for your groceries, ordering online is actually the most economical way to get them, because you’re sharing petrol with so many other people. It’s a bit like public transport for your shopping. And, there’s the added benefit of saving you some energy! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some places, like <a href="https://www.ocado.com/">Ocado</a>, will even take the bags through to the kitchen for you and save you lifting things that might otherwise be too heavy for you.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Supermarket websites often allow you to access a list of your last ordered foods, or create favourite lists, so that can save you some precious spoons when filling out your order online too.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://groceries.morrisons.com/">Morrisons</a> has also recently issued a ban on plastics on fruit and veg in their stores, so this will likely eventually extend to home deliveries, if it doesn’t already.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Food waste apps</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This one’s not as useful for the house or bed bound among us, unless there’s a handy extra Hyman around to go on a food run, but there are a number of apps now available that offer you the chance to buy food that might otherwise go to waste in your area. (Unfortunately the urban people have us rural people beat on this one - there’s a far wider selection.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://toogoodtogo.co.uk/en-gb">Too Good To Go</a> offer “Magic Bag” which contain random unsold items from various supermarkets, bakeries and restaurants that would otherwise be chucked. These bags are heavily discounted, so they can be a good shout. If the items are from restaurants or bakeries they’re also less likely to need prep, so that’s a great energy saver. There was even one relatively local to me for this one! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://karma.life/">Karma</a> works on a similar basis but specifically for restaurants and bakeries, with the added bonus of you being able to pick exactly what you want to buy. Nothing in my area, but if you’re in a city then this is a great shout if you’re not up to cooking.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://olioex.com/">Olio</a> is more of a sharing app. It allows you to create an account to upload things you aren’t using - food, clothes, toiletries - and makes them visible to other Olio users. They can then come and pick up the items, or (I think) you can drop them at another location. You can see if there’s anything that others have that you could make use of.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Apparently it can include businesses as well, but what’s visible is quite limited in my area.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve got to say I like the idea of this app as it’s a really great community concept.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Order fruit and veg in season</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You’ll have a little less control over this if you’re ordering online, but by trying to order fruit and vegetables that are in season you’re more likely to get home-grown veg, which creates a lot less carbon emissions than imported items.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(You can also sign up to locally grown fruit and veg boxes and support local farmers at the same time as being eco-conscious. They come in a range of prices, but it may be a little more difficult to plan easy meals ahead of time, as many are something of a lucky dip. Something to bear in mind, though!)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.vegsoc.org/cookery-school/blog/seasonal-uk-grown-produce/">Here’s a list</a> from the vegetarian society on what’s in season, when. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Technically speaking, fruit and vegetables in season should also be less expensive, so it might save you some money too.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Keep plants</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Help reduce CO2 in the atmosphere by growing plants. You could even grow herbs or vegetables to save on food costs.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You might want to set timers to help you remember when to water them though - brain fog is not helpful.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can even download an app like Koubachi (on iOS and Android) to help remind you which plants need watering, and when.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">For watering, having a water butt fitted in the garden to save rainwater can save money, and used water that’s not had to be treated.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If carrying a watering can is difficult then hoses with an on/off trigger allows you to walk more freely without the weight of a container.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Go non-dairy or eat less meat IF POSSIBLE </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Being vegan (or at least eating considerably less meat or dairy) is one of The Big Ones that’s suggested when people talk about helping the planet. Meat and dairy farming have a large impact on global climate, so it’s a good one to try and change.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">However, I (and others) rely on high levels of protein in order to function, and the traditional vegetarian protein options (like pulses) do not agree with me AT ALL. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Making myself more ill isn’t going to help anyone, and will likely just end up costing lots to me (and society) in the form of more medications, treatments, and support.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you feel able to lessen or stop eating meat, then great, if not, then do what is right for your body. It’s extremely easy to say someone should just deal with the fallout when they’re not the one’s feeling it.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You may not physically have to energy to cook and might have to rely on whatever ready meals you can afford, so it’s hardly reasonable to expect people struggling in such a way to put the two things they don’t have (energy and money) into making sure what can eat is vegan and risk worsening both their physical and financial condition whilst doing so.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You also might not be the one doing the cooking, so your control of that aspect of your life might be limited. I know that I’m not currently capable of cooking for myself, so everything I eat is ordered and prepared by my parents. While they’ve taken care to adapt my diet as far as possible, decisions about meal plans are not up to me.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We are however trying to look into options that allow us to eat a little less meat whilst not giving me energy crashes or an horrifically upset stomach. We regularly eat a cauliflower curry dish with nuts instead of meat, and recently mum found a couple of veggie sausages that were very good (although a little out of our usual pice range).</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even though I do still eat meat and eggs, I don’t eat dairy, so that’s something. We still have ghee in the house for when Mum thinks it will work better for something, but I’m trying to phase it out completely and convince her that coconut oil is a better alternative. (She’s worried about cholesterol levels as heart problems run in the family, but to be honest, one saturated fat is much like another, and, in this case, one tastes like coconut and the other one vaguely like feet.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Going non-dairy was suggested to me by the Optimum Health Clinic, so it’s up to you whether it’s something you want to try in order to help your ME.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re looking to go non-dairy I have suggestions on items to try in my post on my diet; <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2017/02/cheese-vs-freedom-my-me-diet.html">Cheese vs Freedom</a>. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve found even better cheese from <a href="https://violifefoods.com/">violife</a> now - the feta one is AMAZING. Also <a href="https://www.boojabooja.com/">Booja Booja</a> and <a href="https://www.perfectworldicecream.co.uk/">Perfect World</a> "ice creams" are to die for.</span></span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: inherit;"><b>Recycle pet food waste </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.terracycle.com/en-GB/brigades/petfood">Terracycle</a>, in one of their many recycling schemes, offers the option to recycle pet food pouches by dropping them off to one of their locations. You can also register interest if there isn't one nearby.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I know it won't be perfect for people who are housebound, but I thought it worth mentioning!</span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Microwaves</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Microwaves use less energy than traditional ovens so all those aforementioned ready meals are actually pretty good in terms of electricity usage.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I suppose you could use them to boil water too, but because a kettle automatically switches itself off after reaching a certain temperature it’s a little more eco-friendly. And also we all know that boiling water for tea in the microwave is WRONG ON SO MANY LEVELS.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Use a slow cooker</b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My mum bought me a slow cooker when I moved out and constantly asked me whether I used it. The answer was usually no, but it’s actually a pretty great way to save both energy and electricity.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Slow cookers are relatively cheap, you can put ingredients in it in the morning, or the night before, and then leave it to cook until dinner time. Less mess, less electricity and a chance to choose your best time of day to do the main part of the work. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m sorry I doubted you, Mum.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifOv94JZ2joTaJ4C6LebPYhebzhb6DCydgIsp1KBd9lS83rUF9r-Z25mLMVaYxXI6S7d3zyM3t11cCWUl5D_wI9TOYP-H79DtSMUUpweaan_hsSYcBcQPiVQFQfGVUD6yskwaTmo7HV_bd/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifOv94JZ2joTaJ4C6LebPYhebzhb6DCydgIsp1KBd9lS83rUF9r-Z25mLMVaYxXI6S7d3zyM3t11cCWUl5D_wI9TOYP-H79DtSMUUpweaan_hsSYcBcQPiVQFQfGVUD6yskwaTmo7HV_bd/s1600/Unknown.jpeg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Try an Eco-Kettle</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re a big tea drinker then you might want to give an eco-friendly vacuum kettle a go. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Similar to a thermos flask, the kettle uses the vacuum to keep the water hot for up to four or so hours, so you don’t have to keep turning it on and using electricity.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This could be a great energy saver as well, as you can minimise the need to walk back and forth turning the kettle on and then having to sit down until it’s boiled. Not to mention when you inevitably forget to drink your drink the kettle is still hot to make another, so handy for brain fog.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Here’s <a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/vektra/vektra-vacuum-eco-kettle---1-series---1-2-ltr-black---red/">one by Vektra</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Avoid food waste</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This section feels fairly obvious, but you can make a big difference by avoiding food waste, and save yourself some money too.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Make the most of everything you do buy by storing and eating leftovers, and composting what you don’t eat. Also make the most of the freezer space and freeze down what you can to save food, money AND energy on meal prep.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As well as the traditional Tupperware boxes, you can buy:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">Reusable silicone sandwich bags</span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> for storage (although you can wash out and reuse standard sandwich bags too)</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4B7LKfvSKqXQc1ItQa7VWyPqPu5ADekZy9O8_4NF4i12i-CRCxQxYs68ytSvC_9PUSe55XrUrBpG3yXFW-ZzW7EOJI3YEJSvObEJ2P-NwvetVCR7_SLwm2x9JtOdnoNNnNyxlMGr9DEIf/s1600/stasher-reusable-silicone-bag-sandwich-raspberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4B7LKfvSKqXQc1ItQa7VWyPqPu5ADekZy9O8_4NF4i12i-CRCxQxYs68ytSvC_9PUSe55XrUrBpG3yXFW-ZzW7EOJI3YEJSvObEJ2P-NwvetVCR7_SLwm2x9JtOdnoNNnNyxlMGr9DEIf/s320/stasher-reusable-silicone-bag-sandwich-raspberry.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even Good Housekeeping likes <a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/cooking-tools/food-storage-container-reviews/a22341784/stashers-best-food-storage-amazon/">these</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.beeswaxwraps.co.uk/">Beeswax wrap</a></span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> instead of cling film - you can also <a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/craft-ideas/g25642328/diy-beeswax-reusuable-wraps/">make this yourself</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Silicon lids</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">These come in both round and square/rectangular versions. You can also get completely flat versions where you just use the tension to hold them shut over the bowl or cup, but honestly I don’t like these as much. I’ve tried both and the ones that are already shaped are just much easier to pull over stuff, especially if you’re not particularly strong.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9OXXMFr4LPT1KHIrQ8hQAzHTdx6NcpUv8IB7ARq730tD-vXqtkq0rZl58jH-XlrsPN3wftULEc2O2j_GO6m5oSQFDGW9cDG5ejMyEPczcymusbW7ZOL16oi-jraqUJUgI9FE_3Avzx83/s1600/713r9BGkH6L._AC_SX522_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="522" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd9OXXMFr4LPT1KHIrQ8hQAzHTdx6NcpUv8IB7ARq730tD-vXqtkq0rZl58jH-XlrsPN3wftULEc2O2j_GO6m5oSQFDGW9cDG5ejMyEPczcymusbW7ZOL16oi-jraqUJUgI9FE_3Avzx83/s320/713r9BGkH6L._AC_SX522_.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My stepdad prefers the flat ones but I’m reasonably sure it's because he has a bizarre block on estimating sizes by looking and can’t tell which size lid will fit which item. Someone should have spent more time with one of these as a kid.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reusable Baking Sheet</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Instead of getting through tin foil or greaseproof paper by the metre, you can also get reusable baking sheets. Here's one from <a href="https://www.boobalou.co.uk/reusable-baking-liner-seraphinas-kitchen.html">Boobalou</a> and here's one from <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/40x30cm-Silicone-Baking-Liner-Sheet/dp/B01LW6K85Y/ref=asc_df_B01LW6K85Y/?tag=googshopuk-21&linkCode=df0&hvadid=309939089478&hvpos=1o5&hvnetw=g&hvrand=1605711168449971282&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9041117&hvtargid=pla-698793015569&psc=1">Amazon</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reusable Straws</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m sure many of us are all too aware of reusable straw options, but they can have their uses. I use one every day to drink my Vitashake in an attempt to convince myself I’m drinking something delicious.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0FcoCs3ccziX0sK7HRWiDA9wd9jNRu0fdgsUr4xocfr5dsqCmPnkLBxfOAtayq-n8aJbixdr_W_lm6FxF_Zba4fwSk78_ZqB-PUmxieA-aV9wodkVqMgD-v-UJFSDfg_8V0VoJxNjHaUE/s1600/istock-153696622.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="412" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0FcoCs3ccziX0sK7HRWiDA9wd9jNRu0fdgsUr4xocfr5dsqCmPnkLBxfOAtayq-n8aJbixdr_W_lm6FxF_Zba4fwSk78_ZqB-PUmxieA-aV9wodkVqMgD-v-UJFSDfg_8V0VoJxNjHaUE/s320/istock-153696622.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Just make sure you’re aware of you’re own personal needs before purchasing, because you don’t want to injure yourself on a straw. Also, don’t walk around with a hard straw in your mouth: if it can’t collapse but you do, then it can seriously injure or kill you.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On that note… HERE ARE SOME STRAWS LOL</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">Reusable plastic</span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> - I have some of <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kilner-Striped-Drinking-Straws-Multi/dp/B00N2CNUZU/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=kilner+straws&qid=1578834860&sr=8-1">these by Kilner</a> because they’re wide enough for the horror that is my daily Vitashake.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2Q2AxzoDXPFyknjU3RdYSJ6nsz1czlGMyl16aFb379e824YApbTwQoz-sb749nR8xWhlskpQnWyp12D_73a1l_n5G1v7MGCQR0LrZktB2SRrNgAFfaKH9Umg-UUYVwO2_V7i8D1KnAnr/s1600/0025.451-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx2Q2AxzoDXPFyknjU3RdYSJ6nsz1czlGMyl16aFb379e824YApbTwQoz-sb749nR8xWhlskpQnWyp12D_73a1l_n5G1v7MGCQR0LrZktB2SRrNgAFfaKH9Umg-UUYVwO2_V7i8D1KnAnr/s320/0025.451-1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/ecoliving/ecoliving-silicone-straws---cleaning-brush---pack-of-6/">Silicon</a></span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8N_7EAPygTLPAET_ZrSke8feGZQL-wXPQw2c3JcL-Is2FAnXNeJ6n_O_-0-eIkJLbCml2TWeHN-i5SBXd9fw0gwWyUnWYI9Np3R3xBTKwsrguc77Rc7I-ooA-2UXCLNJMe4JzyIepDtwu/s1600/452809-ecoLiving-Silicone-Straws-Cleaning-Brush-Pack-of-6-01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="590" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8N_7EAPygTLPAET_ZrSke8feGZQL-wXPQw2c3JcL-Is2FAnXNeJ6n_O_-0-eIkJLbCml2TWeHN-i5SBXd9fw0gwWyUnWYI9Np3R3xBTKwsrguc77Rc7I-ooA-2UXCLNJMe4JzyIepDtwu/s320/452809-ecoLiving-Silicone-Straws-Cleaning-Brush-Pack-of-6-01.jpg" width="209" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/bambaw/bambaw-bamboo-straws---14cm---22cm---pack-of-12/">Bamboo</a></span><span style="font-kerning: none;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJUaIYfUx2np8wPfqXAgZn-Nv0LhkpoGaFHwXFLi3WcLrdkn74DKCwFgcr2i2dQhtslRTfgGPp6ig3LvuDtssonU2HawYLkOlnqk37F53wxFWXZB2F6e5phpZbwNKaqLxQGz7zVQGU8NR/s1600/445923-bambaw-bamboo-straws-mixed-size-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimJUaIYfUx2np8wPfqXAgZn-Nv0LhkpoGaFHwXFLi3WcLrdkn74DKCwFgcr2i2dQhtslRTfgGPp6ig3LvuDtssonU2HawYLkOlnqk37F53wxFWXZB2F6e5phpZbwNKaqLxQGz7zVQGU8NR/s320/445923-bambaw-bamboo-straws-mixed-size-1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/uberstar/uberstar-collapsible-travel-straw---silver/">Collapsible</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEjBs-iS7xdBe9noBBrCNxNIN-bQYpsfXztbN7FxgmlTCIUj9rdFzAO0Gb9hyHnD20nxdknRbz5eEjM5dXBHdgOhFGkpKWJ0PtPYN_v-U6u9ZpBMLtcVdzIqfA9-_9AwtaNpVGrzJYCTx/s1600/465712-uberstar-collapsible-travel-straw-silver-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHEjBs-iS7xdBe9noBBrCNxNIN-bQYpsfXztbN7FxgmlTCIUj9rdFzAO0Gb9hyHnD20nxdknRbz5eEjM5dXBHdgOhFGkpKWJ0PtPYN_v-U6u9ZpBMLtcVdzIqfA9-_9AwtaNpVGrzJYCTx/s320/465712-uberstar-collapsible-travel-straw-silver-1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;">Metal</span><span style="font-kerning: none;">, both <a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/natural-collection-select/reusable-metal-straws---tones---set-of-4/">curved</a>...</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYzKhjAb9zmF417T8vdUIhTeNUBXAMZMlBjO4dAZ2OALrQHaDGwf7_LJgTm9Jnw1tX5Gb8_4zHtKnxOo5Hv-fp1S7lpe7CwDP-XDwoqSwMFiA9YijOtsqYqKrFIMYATkRTpTTjHihDfpA/s1600/461543-echo-three-reusable-metal-straws-tones-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYzKhjAb9zmF417T8vdUIhTeNUBXAMZMlBjO4dAZ2OALrQHaDGwf7_LJgTm9Jnw1tX5Gb8_4zHtKnxOo5Hv-fp1S7lpe7CwDP-XDwoqSwMFiA9YijOtsqYqKrFIMYATkRTpTTjHihDfpA/s320/461543-echo-three-reusable-metal-straws-tones-1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">...and straight. <a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/natural-collection-select/reusable-metal-straws---unicorn-horn---set-of-2/">These ones</a> are shaped like Unicorn Horns! OMG</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvS7xAa72PO9YcdVO-DlkVvRwesjygPllUN7Yd4qc1gCfOkZFcdBA-tgqXTsEZF6yprmDM3X1kWxjaPM6La9ZSc8ZWWIVq7XqVCxzsUBW8OjBf_fSz5yldvqrbMUearEfBjB2CRbyvUqk/s1600/461532-echo-three-reusable-metal-straws-unicorn-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwvS7xAa72PO9YcdVO-DlkVvRwesjygPllUN7Yd4qc1gCfOkZFcdBA-tgqXTsEZF6yprmDM3X1kWxjaPM6La9ZSc8ZWWIVq7XqVCxzsUBW8OjBf_fSz5yldvqrbMUearEfBjB2CRbyvUqk/s320/461532-echo-three-reusable-metal-straws-unicorn-1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/products/kikkerland/reusable-clear-glass-straws---set-of-6/">Glass</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQ1rgoEyLs-Cs0v23Q5rEx-96pIbsPZ6qz3dRMSqnhf_C3oXzzDHJKNrZKuQfn42f2HGYpOJyaQPYp7D4y40j93zQGM6Ap-HL3-lfD4O50ZjN7wtXaQ3XoxNM91ljHwEup0jsVHBNMmJy/s1600/461719-kikkerland-reusable-clear-glass-straws-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibQ1rgoEyLs-Cs0v23Q5rEx-96pIbsPZ6qz3dRMSqnhf_C3oXzzDHJKNrZKuQfn42f2HGYpOJyaQPYp7D4y40j93zQGM6Ap-HL3-lfD4O50ZjN7wtXaQ3XoxNM91ljHwEup0jsVHBNMmJy/s320/461719-kikkerland-reusable-clear-glass-straws-4.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Watch for misleading symbols</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We’re all used to looking for symbols to help us work out what’s recyclable, but they can be misleading and arrows don’t mean recyclable. You can check the packaging or website of the product, but here’s a couple of guides from <a href="https://globalactionplan.ie/action/recycling-symbols-mean/">Global Action Plan</a> and <a href="https://www.glamourmagazine.co.uk/gallery/recycling-symbols-guide">Glamour Magazine</a> on what to look out for.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reusable water bottles and coffee cups</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There are MASSES of these on the market of all materials, shapes and designs, so you’re bound to find one that works for you.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I managed to find mine on eBay in the end: I wanted a glass bottle with lines up the side to mark the hours to help me keep track of my fluid intake and encourage me to drink more water. Because I am terrible at keeping hydrated.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishnIePawSuYjl_RvftjMpjzd6QFKT7MsiBbYi255TP0xtejohJb1pnNOr3xYtniXd7kgz_4QUqGIq8dWlUelOfNEotAAy-UC0q1Lpg0qVjxcTd1XbkfGvWL6ThEYokNoCyMQiQGrEq2eT/s1600/CoVvW9iW8AEgaNa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1200" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEishnIePawSuYjl_RvftjMpjzd6QFKT7MsiBbYi255TP0xtejohJb1pnNOr3xYtniXd7kgz_4QUqGIq8dWlUelOfNEotAAy-UC0q1Lpg0qVjxcTd1XbkfGvWL6ThEYokNoCyMQiQGrEq2eT/s320/CoVvW9iW8AEgaNa.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Eco-friendly cleaning</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cleaning products and tablets</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As time goes on there are more and more eco-friendly cleaning products coming onto the market. Laundry, general household cleaning and dishwashing all have their own swathe of products and brands to choose from.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A plus side of a lot of these brands is that because of the carefully chosen ingredients, many are suitable for those with skin or chemical sensitivities, so they're a good place to look if that’s one of your issues. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A lot of places will also allow you to order smaller amounts or samples that can let you try the products to make sure it won’t affect your skin or heightened senses.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ecover.com/">Ecover</a> is a brand that’s available in most supermarkets now, but there are also things like <a href="https://www.splosh.com/">Splosh</a>, Iron & Velvet, <a href="https://ecozone.com/?gclid=CjwKCAiApOvwBRBUEiwAcZGdGBLjS-YZl4dMHrnxu3SBEolverp1DhRJbtxkbRnBRzpjuBVUDeC4axoClkUQAvD_BwE">EcoZone</a>, <a href="https://biodegradable.biz/">Bio-D</a>, Eco Egg and Koh.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mum currently uses this <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Forever-Living-Aloe-MPD-Cleaner/dp/B0130OUXAY">Forever Aloe MPD</a> all purpose stuff that you can water down in different ratios depending on the use.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH4DZQ-EqlbYb0KfrfyGU3Q0nd8wgu8BKmnA4vq7qhpEWy4RLKytYwWlUVaQviHe6YQtg3EOWGrcLcV6Djs6B8nFcNzKNMnTYGyPqbDIMrip4Q5PYlm5CXfPULTzTWggFlN0TuOqNEe0VF/s1600/81zuh95KuYL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH4DZQ-EqlbYb0KfrfyGU3Q0nd8wgu8BKmnA4vq7qhpEWy4RLKytYwWlUVaQviHe6YQtg3EOWGrcLcV6Djs6B8nFcNzKNMnTYGyPqbDIMrip4Q5PYlm5CXfPULTzTWggFlN0TuOqNEe0VF/s320/81zuh95KuYL._SL1500_.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s expensive outright (like so many eco-products, unfortunately) but because it’s concentrated it lasts a lot longer and works out cheaper in the long run. It also end up using less packaging as there’s only one product, and it lasts so long.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s not the only concentrated formula out there, so if that sounds like something you’d be interested in have a look around and see what you can find!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m quite keen to try out the <a href="https://uk.koh.com/">Koh</a> cleaner too because that looks really versatile as well. (I say that as if I’m able to do any cleaning myself. Sorry, parents!)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://ironandvelvet.co.uk/">Iron & Velvet</a> provide a similar service, sending sachets to be placed in your own bottles, but with different formulas for different tasks.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Some options use cardboard packaging instead of plastic, or offer refills for containers rather than new containers each time (<a href="https://www.splosh.com/">Splosh</a> is one of these). </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can even buy a <a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/products/eco-egg-laundry-egg-720-washes/eg720.aspx?productid=eg720">Laundry Egg</a>, a recyclable egg-shaped container that holds an alternative to washing powders or liquid in pellet form that last up to a certain number of washes. This one does up to 720.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have no idea if or how this works but some people love them. I can only assume they’re filled with tiny laundry sprites who agree to a set workload of cleaning magic and must then be released back into the wild to be showered with honey and flower petals.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There’s even <a href="https://www.boobalou.co.uk/natural-bleach.html">natural bleach</a>, which used for laundry and household cleaning. You can even use it in mugs and coffee-pots.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you want to get an overview of the products on offer, then the best thing is to check out an online eco-supermarket. I’ll be talking more about recommendations for those later.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dishwashers</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Using a dishwasher saves a lot of water when compared to hand washing, not to mention energy. The electric used to power it and heat the water can be a little more iffy, but if you run the dishwasher on an eco-cycle and only use it when it’s full, it’s a much more green option all round.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Eco-friendly dishwasher tablets and rinse-aid are among the products available online.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Coconut and loofah scourers</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you don’t have access to a dishwasher then green scrubbing tools might be a good move.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As well as having to be thrown away as a whole, plastic scourers release micro-plastics into the ecosystem every time they’re used.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Eco-friendly scourers made from <a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/products/safix-dish-wash-scrub-pad/safixdish.aspx?productid=safixdish&utm_source=google&utm_medium=merchant_centre&utm_term=%7Bkeyword%7D&utm_campaign=merchant_centre&gclid=CjwKCAiApOvwBRBUEiwAcZGdGBBxA9HtrD8xm-RVDGrvDUB9gqLUqmdHgsqCb6fajN4-kTNCtGZFPBoCP-AQAvD_BwE">coconut</a> fibres or <a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/products/loofco-washing-up-pad-2-pack/loofwashpad2.aspx?productid=loofwashpad2">loofah</a> plants let you scrub away without any of that happening. They’re available on lots of eco-friendly supermarket sites, as well as places like Amazon.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can also buy either recycled or wooden washing up brushes.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reusable rags rather than wipes</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Dishcloths and rags are a great way to clean without using disposable wipes, and they save you money in the long run by being shoved in the washing machine rather than having to be replaced constantly. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There is, however, some debate over which are the most eco-friendly. Microfibre wipes aren’t biodegradable but they’re still better than disposable wipes. Cotton are biodegradable but the environmental impact of cotton production is quite high so that can’t be a bit tricky as well.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The most eco-friendly option is actually hacking up your old socks and t shirts and using those, but whichever you choose it’ll still be cheaper and better for the environment than wipes.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Kitchen Towel replacements</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There are also eco-friendly reusable options instead of using paper towels. <a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/products/eco-egg-bamboo-reusable-towels-up-to-1700-uses/egbamboo.aspx?productid=egbamboo">Bamboo towels</a> are absorbent and are able to be washed and reused up to 85 times each. Cool!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve ordered these and they’re really nice. I was worried they’d basically be the same thing as a dish cloth, but they’re much more like a thin sheet of sponge, and yes, very absorbent.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Shop Suggestions</span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Etsy has started offsetting 100% carbon footprints at no extra cost to the buyer. Many sellers are starting to offer eco-friendly packaging, and many of the fabric options mentioned in this post are available to buy on Etsy, as well as eco-friendly bathroom products like soaps and shampoo.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Not only are you helping support small businesses, but you’re helping the planet too.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(If you’re an Etsy seller, you can also make the switch to more eco-friendly packaging. I’m currently using up my previous stock of cello bags for <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/HannahRadenkova">my cards and prints</a> and then I’ll be switching to these.)</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/">Big green smile</a></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Big Green Smile are an online supermarket specialising in eco-friendly products, including cleaning products, make up, skincare, personal hygiene for men and women (including period products), sexual health products, vitamins and supplements, gifts, and items for baby care like baby food, nappies, and wipes.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They also offer free samples of certain products, which is useful if you want to try new products but are unsure as to how they may effect your skin sensitivities.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can also choose to offset the carbon emissions used for delivery as an optional additional amount which you choose.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Orders in the UK (mainland only) under £55 start at £5, and are free over £55.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/">Ethical Superstore</a></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Like BGS, Ethical Superstore is an online eco-supermarket, but the range of products are greater, including all the sections BGS does but with the addition of pet supplies, fashion, garden supplies, household appliances and decoration, and food.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In my opinion the food is the most important part, because they offer a selection of treats I can have on my weird ME diet (LINK). They do not sell perishable items like fruit, vegetables or meat.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Orders in the UK (mainland) under £50 cost £3.95 postage, but are free over £50. You can also choose to add an extra £1 to your order in order to offset your carbon emissions.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">They're also extremely lovely and have offered my readers a whopping £40 to win in vouchers to use on their website. Keep an eye on my social media accounts to find out how!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.planetorganic.com/">Planet organic</a></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Planet Organic is an online eco-supermarket that offers produce somewhere between Big Green Smile and Ethical Superstore. It includes all the things Big Green Smile offers, but does not include gardening equipment or fashion items.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Planet Organic also has a section called London Fresh, which basically allows you to use the site to place your entire grocery order, including perishables like fruit and vegetables. However, as the name might suggest, this service is only available to the London area, which can be frustrating. There’s been a number of times I’ve got excited about an item on the website only to discover it can't be delivered to the wilds of Norfolk. Boo hiss.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you live in London you can choose to collect your order for free, UK mainland orders are otherwise priced at £3.95 under £50, and free over £50.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Carbon emissions are offset by the company with a donation to the Woodland Trust with every delivery.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.yumbles.com/">Yumbles</a></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yumbles is a UK online food market that works a little like Etsy. Instead of Yumbles having items that they send to you, it’s a platform for all sorts of different sellers, who specialise in foods for those with limited or special diets. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you’re avoiding dairy or meat and struggle to find something tasty then they are a GODSEND. It’s not cheap, but as I’m sure we all know, special diet foods never are.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.lush.com/">Lush</a></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Lush is obviously an extremely well known eco and animal-friendly brand, but I wanted to offer it up as a suggestion because I feel like it deserves a mention. They offer a lot in terms of eco-friendly packaging and do various shampoo and shaving bars.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’ve never been a massive fan of lush shops because they smell so incredibly strongly that I used to find my eyes watering. And that was before I got ME. But the bonus of ordering online is that you don’t actually have to endure any of that, and the products themselves are good, if pricey.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Delivery starts at £3.95, and Lush have a carbon offset program worked into their business model.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://smile.amazon.co.uk/">Smile at Amazon</a></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I know that the use of Amazon is a controversial topic for many people, but sometimes disabled people just don't have the option to shop elsewhere for certain items. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-kerning: none;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If it's necessary to shop there then you can choose to shop via their smile page which allows part of the money spent to go to charity. You can choose either a charity on your condition (ME Research UK and the ME Association are on there) or a more earth-orientated charity.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Join me next Wednesday when we'll head to the bathroom, for eco-makeup, dental health and haircare!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">H</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">PART ONE ~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-two.html">PART TWO </a>~ <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-three.html">PART THREE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/04/a-housebound-eco-guide-part-four.html">PART FOUR</a></span></div>
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Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-13633371090246642952020-03-13T13:31:00.003+00:002020-03-15T14:49:30.527+00:00Dealing with Quarantine (from an actual expert)<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Today’s post is for people who are having their first taste of isolation or quarantine and are feeling a bit overwhelmed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">There’s a lot of these going around, and although they can be useful (I have no idea about specific Corona-based medical practise or finance) they seem to be written by people who are generally out and about in the world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">No offence, but what you really need is a Professional. You need… A HOUSEBOUND PERSON!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">And that’s where I come in.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">For those of you that are new here, I have a condition where, amongst other things, my body doesn’t create energy like it should. My mitochondria are all messed up, so, as you can imagine, that has an impact on… everything. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I am too exhausted to leave the house, or sometimes my bed. So I’ve been cared for by my lovely family for seven and a half years, and have been housebound for the last five and a half.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">By now, I’m an old hand at this, so I’ll be able to help you out with some of the lesser known issues that people without that half a decade of experience just can’t tell you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Some of this may seem strange or contradictory in places, but I don’t make the rules. This is how it is.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>Choice makes a difference </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">You’re probably learning (or about to learn) that the one thing that makes a difference as to whether doing something or not is fun is Choice.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">The number of times I’ve had someone say to me “it must be so nice to be at home all the time” is ridiculous. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">The person saying it is thinking of the fun type of staying at home, where you decide to have a duvet day and watch movies and eat toast in your pants. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">But now people are being faced with the less fun kind. The kind where you can’t leave.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Staying at home because you want to… fun. Staying at home because of Doom Plague Potential… not fun. (Also, bagsy “Doom Plague Potential” as a band name.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">It’s tough being uncertain when you’re going to see people, do things or get on with your life, but…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you think about it, you <i>are</i> making a choice. You’re making the choice to put your health first. That’s sensible. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">And if you’re careful with others who are more at risk then you’re making the choice to be kind. That’s even better.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><b>You're allowed to be grumpy or frightened</b></u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span>You can be grumpy about having to stay in. You can be frightened. Those are valid emotions. Have a scream into a pillow, or shake your fists at the sky. Cry, if you need to. Let those emotions out, and then take a deep breath. Because...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>You can do it</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’m not even meaning this in an inspirational quote sense, you can actually do this. It may be tricky, but if I can last half a decade in my house, you can last a couple of weeks, or even a couple of months.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you’re actually sick then make sure you have people who can check up on you via the internet or phone if not in person. Seek medical attention where necessary. Help each other.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Otherwise…</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>The Internet exists - embrace it</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">All that “put down your phone and live in the REAL WORLD” stuff is about to become a load of cobblers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">You will feel lonely, the Internet is a great tool to prevent that, so embrace it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Group chats, social media, and video chats make a MASSIVE difference in the lives of people stuck at home, so utilise that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Even when you’re watching tv, have a group chat of mates watching the same thing and talk about it as if you’re all there together. Because you are... kind of.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">You can also contact plenty of mental healthcare professionals over the internet (or phone) if you feel that’s something you need. Don’t be afraid to reach out. There are people available. We're all in this together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>The Internet isn’t real</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">At the same time as the internet being an amazing tool and opportunity for social interaction, it’s important to remember that it’s not a complete experience of the world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">It seems obvious when you’re able to leave the house, but it will quickly become clear that things start to feel a bit more skewed without the regular interaction of polite (or not so polite) strangers in everyday life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Things will seem more polarised and polarising, and specific, potentially small things may seem extremely important. That’s normal, just... bear it in mind and take a deep breath before reacting to things.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>TV, Radio, Things to do!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you, unlike me, are at home as a precautionary measure instead of long term health condition you can probably do things. Hooray!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Right now that is less than you're used to, and BELIEVE ME I know that feel, bro, but you can still do things and that’s wonderful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Imagining a lengthy period where you’re stuck at home sounds awful, but imagine it without TV, books or the internet. Or crafts. Or DIY. Or the ability to clean your clothes or yourself.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’m trying really hard not to play the “be grateful” card here, because people have said it to me despite me struggling (or being completely unable) to do any of those things and it made me want to bite them. But also... you can likely do those things. So maybe this is the point where all those trite inspiration memes come in handy and you can embrace the things you can do.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Unless you are sick, in which case, for the love of all that is holy, do not do the things.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Stay in bed. Drink fluids. Have people check in on you as safely as possible. Resist the urge to get up and make your body fight harder than it is, because that will not help you.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Trust me, despite all those “you can do anything if you BELIEVE” quotes, it’s not strong or clever to push your body when it’s struggling. You will just use up energy your body could be using to heal you. Take it from the sick person.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Stay in bed till you feel better, and then a bit longer, just to make sure.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">And resist the urge to go out in public and rub your germy self onto various surfaces.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>You will come to love your Postie/Courier.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Oh, those kind humans who strive through wind and gale to bring us parcels and food, and most importantly, contact with the outside world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">A face! A new face! Possibly some small talk. You never knew that was a thing you could miss before this moment.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Will you potentially feel the need to disinfect everything you get in the post? Possibly. Will you be ever so glad to see someone who doesn’t live in your house or flat? Most definitely.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">They must be protected for they are the keepers of the parcels.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>Time will lose all meaning.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">The only thing I can reliably liken it to is that weird week between Christmas and New Year where you don’t know what day, time or year it is. Or why you’re covered in biscuit crumbs.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you don’t celebrate these events and have have no prior experience in this weird time warp... I’m sorry. Things are about to get real.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I genuinely forget my own age at this point.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>Keep to a regular schedule.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">You’re going to re-enter the world at some point but that’s going to be difficult if your schedule is all messed up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Keeping to a normal(ish) schedule will also mean you’re more likely to sleep better, which will be handy if you do actually get sick.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you’re going to be working from home then you’re probably going to have to use alarms to get you to do anything because otherwise you will look up and it’s three in the afternoon, you’ve done nothing and you’re still in your jim-jams.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">(To be fair, if you want to work in your jim-jams that’s a totally valid choice.)</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Try to stick to specific working hours if you can. It’s much easier to switch off your mind from work worries when you’ve got commute time in the middle, so having set hours or a signal to yourself (like changing clothes) that the work day is over will help you wind down a bit easier. I remember that much from my healthy freelance days.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Vitamin D</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you're going to be inside a lot more than usual then it might be wise to make sure you're eating healthily and specifically that you're getting enough vitamin D. </span><br />
We normally getting enough of this through sunlight, but if you're not out in it as much, or if your mood is easily affected by weather or seasons, then it might be a good shout to have a supplement.<br />
<br />
You don't need a massive amount, even I only take one a week and I'm pretty deficient, but it's best absorbed with vitamin C so taking those is good too, or an all round supplement that includes it.<br />
<br />
If you've got a garden to sit in or a room that gets a lot of light, then that should help both your vitamin D levels and your mood.<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>Exercise?</b></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I imagine that if you’re housebound without being sick you’re probably going to have a ton of pent up energy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’ll admit I’m completely guessing here, because energy is quite literally what my body is rubbish at producing so exercising makes me worse, which is why I’m stuck in my house unable to do anything in the first place.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Looking back at those heady years before I got sick, however, I would get pretty restless being stuck inside during that weird post-Christmas week, so it’s probably good to try and exercise some of that off.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Stretches, yoga, kick a football about in the garden. Whatever floats your boat.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">You’ll probably sleep better and it’s good for releasing endorphins too.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Again, if you’re sick, don’t do this. Just don’t. Coronavirus targets your respiratory system so nobody wants you to be doing star jumps like a muppet. Go lie down.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>Touch withdrawal </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you live on your own, or even if people inside your house are avoiding contact to prevent potential contamination you may experience mild touch withdrawal. I don’t know if that’s an official term, but that’s what I’m calling it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">You can counter this with:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span>
</div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Blankets, duvets, or weighted blankets</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">There’s a reason people are given shock blankets after trauma, and that’s to simulate a hug and release the associated endorphins. Having a blanket, duvet or weighted blanket around you will do that same thing.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>Pets</b></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Having access to a furry (or scaly or feathered) friend will help with loneliness and touch withdrawal. A lot of them will be loving the chance to spend more time with you.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b>ASMR </b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I’ve had people tell me that ASMR videos help them with loneliness and touch withdrawal. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response and is basically a tingly feeling of calm and being cared for that a person can experience when watching or listening to certain triggers.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">YouTube is full of people tapping on bottles and turning books pages, and it can be really useful.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I was a bit dubious to begin with, but honestly the ones where the person pretends to cut your hair make me into a giant pile of goop.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><b>Not the same as long term isolation</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">This is going to pass. You will be able to leave the house again, and it will be relatively soon.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">When it does, please be respectful of those who are still here.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Yes, a two week quarantine might give you a tiny glimpse into what it’s like to be housebound, but it won’t make you an expert in long term isolation due to illness or disability. That’s a whole other ball game.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Please do not equate the two, because it honestly feels a randomer in a bar who has spent two minutes thinking on a topic telling you about something you have a doctorate in.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Coronavirus is scary, and quarantine or self-isolation is not something you’re used to but it is <i>temporary</i>.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span>
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<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-kerning: none; text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Finally</b> </span></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If disabled or sick people are getting salty on the internet it’s because they have reason to be. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">A lot of us have been stuck like this for years or even decades, and many of the options that would make things much more accessible for us have</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> only magically become possible now there’s a threat to the general, abled population.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">It doesn’t help that lots of people are trotting out the old “it’s <i>only</i> the old and sick who are in danger”. Thanks for that, mate. So glad that it’s only us sickies (and oldies) who might die and not the important, <i>useful</i> people that are in danger.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">Many of us do not have that light at the end of the tunnel when we can leave the house and just get on with our lives. I have no idea when or if I will be able to rejoin society fully, or even partly. And I just have to get on with it.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">So take this opportunity to be a little more mindful of those people.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">I do hope this helps people who are nervous about being isolated. Keep calm. It will be alright.</span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; min-height: 14px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you want to find out more about being housebound long term then you can check out this post I did called <a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2020/01/what-no-one-tells-you-about-being.html" target="_blank">“What No-one tells you about being Housebound”</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-kerning: none;"></span><br /></span>
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<div style="font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-kerning: none;">If you’d like to donate a pound or two to the <a href="https://www.meassociation.org.uk/" target="_blank">ME Association</a> to help them work on a cure so I can leave the house as well then <a href="https://www.justgiving.com/meassociation" target="_blank">head here</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-font-kerning: none; font-family: inherit;">H</span></div>
<br />Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-43398388561869359692020-02-18T15:16:00.003+00:002020-02-18T15:16:30.886+00:00Period FashionHello my Lovely Loves,<br />
<br />
For a change I've got a little comic strip for you today! It's all about cramps, so I'm sure you'll all be <i>extremely</i> excited to see it lol.<br />
<br />
Enjoy<br />
<br />
H<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-82361339273027471522020-01-26T13:23:00.001+00:002020-01-26T15:22:13.339+00:00What no one tells you about being HouseboundWhether you're housebound some or all of the time, here are some things you might come across.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>1. Time loses all meaning.</b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The five years I've been housebound feels simultaneously like no time at all, and an eternity. I regularly get my own age confused. When did that thing happen I thought was last week? At any point during the last 6 months, that’s when.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s like that weird haze between Christmas and New Year but ALL THE TIME.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The only reason I have a fighting chance of knowing what day it is is because of my pill box. And the alarm to remind me to take them, because what time is it again?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>2. Schadenfreude on rainy weekdays</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Would I rather be leaving the house? Yes. Does it make me feel much better that I can’t when Monday rolls around and its battering down? Also yes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>3. You will feel differently about the days.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You know what happens on Sundays? Bugger all. Limited access to services, no post, and everyone starts mowing their lawn. I used to love it, but now… HISSSSSSSSS!</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">By contrast, Mondays mean you have better access to the world, in whatever limited capacity you get it. Now I love them.</span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>4. Someone will say “I wish I could stay at home all the time.”</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Someone will say this. It could be a stranger delivering something, it could be a medical professional, it could be a loved one, but someone WILL say it. And, for a split second, no matter how well you may know and/or love them, you will contemplate murder.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>5. You feel voiceless and vulnerable.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Your entire existence becomes dependent on the goodwill and efficiency of others. If someone messes up, you’re the one who suffers for it, and you have very few viable options to fix it yourself, or to make sure it doesn’t happen again.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">When you can’t leave your house it’s harder to make yourself heard, or to exact change in your life or the world, and that sucks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>6. You miss really strange things</b></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I miss supermarkets. And train stations. And walking along in the autumn feeling the cold air on my legs.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">All those really mundane, boring parts of life when you’re travelling or doing a chore you’d rather not do… you don’t realise how much of LIFE that makes up until it’s not there anymore. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Photos of exotic locales on instagram don’t hold the same sway because those always feel like a snapshot of someone else’s life. I miss my life. I miss train stations.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>7. Isolation</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">However boring and isolating you’d think it would be, times it by 1000. Again, you don’t realise how comforting seeing different faces is until you don’t anymore. Even if you never actually spoke to those people. I spend 95% of my time with the same three people, and one of those people is actually a cat. And as such she’s unconscious for a fair chunk of that time.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m lucky enough to see a friend or two once a month (or two, if I’m not doing to so well and need a break). Before, even if I didn’t get to socialise as much as I wanted to, I still saw <i>people</i>.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I can and have gone months without seeing another person outside my parents, and due to health constraints, not even seen them very much. Even on good days, they have things they need to do, especially if they want to keep me as healthy as possible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I love Thursdays because our helper lady comes round. And I love getting post because then I can say hi to the postman. Sometimes there’s a new courier! Much excitement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>8. Distraction</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Living like this pretty much comes down to being able to distract yourself. Through meditation, books, crafts, using social media, even daydreaming. There’s a weird guilt that comes with not doing anything you can perceive as productive (thanks for that one, Capitalism) but honestly it’s the only way to cope.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>9. Support is paramount</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s entirely possible people could do this on their own, but it would be so much more difficult. Without support and understanding it would be very easy to develop anxiety and depression and then have a whole new set of issues to deal with. (If those aren’t the issues that led to you being housebound in the first place.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you, or someone you know, is partially or completely housebound then I’d really recommend not only for friends and family to support them (or you), but for them (or you) to consider researching options for professional mental health support. I have two, plus the two medical professionals who focus on physical issues. There’s no shame in it, and if your body isn’t playing ball then your mind needs taking care of just as much. I see the mental health professionals far more often than the physical.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s not easy to deal with, so get people to help with it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>10. You appreciate things more</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I kind of hate bringing it up, because really, what a crappy trade-off, but you do appreciate small things more. When I first felt grass on my feet for the first time in three years I cried, even though I'd only been wheeled 25m from my door. Standing briefly outside in the rain took on a whole new meaning once I’d been inside for so long.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">However, that’s a personal thing. Please don’t tell people they’ll appreciate things more like they should be grateful for it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is a very small thing to have gained when the price is freedom, so let them feel that when they feel it, tell you when they want to share it, and let them come to it in their own time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>11. You will laugh at people who are “Stir Crazy"</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">During an illness or an injury, or during the aforementioned period between Christmas and New Year, people will complain of being stir crazy. It is their right to do so. However, it is the right of any housebound person to laugh at them and think “oh, you sweet summer child."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(The cultural </span>significance<span style="font-family: inherit;"> of GOT has passed </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">now </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">but sod it. Nothing explains the feeling better, </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">and </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">the passage of time is screwed for me </span>anyway.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>12. People could do it</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Most people will say they couldn’t manage being housebound, and they probably think it</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">’s true. They’re wrong. They could. If they had to.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Humans are extremely adaptable. It’s a different normal, and honestly not a very desirable one, but people always underestimate how easy it is for things to become your new normal. It might be hard, and you might get angry and upset, you might need a really good support network, but you’d do it.</span></div>
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Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-70159720387731393832019-12-18T17:42:00.002+00:002019-12-18T17:42:31.878+00:00This Year's DecorationsHello my lovely loves,<br />
<br />
I had wanted to talk about politics this month, but to be honest, I'm not really up to it yet.<br />
I feel sad and frightened, but I'm trying to take heart in the face that, even though it may not seem that way, there are many, many people who feel the way I do. And that means there are people still left to fight for change.<br />
<br />
In the mean time, I'm trying to be kind to myself and others. So, in the spirit of wanting to make people smile, I wanted to show you the Christmas decorations I made last year that I sent as presents this year.<br />
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I really wanted to make Nutcracker soldiers after seeing some made from wooden clothespins online. </div>
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However I forgot one important thing.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknSEYakBu5_2A1Sm2KUdmxwKTs_icU0vOpezc1geBj8pqYjzK0GnSop-QPiKl-5NkSJ6Roy3sQfzxFLf-GnuSvt8LedXbEeXLpHmL9Ht_xRFNV5rWvAt9YHsxXdr-zPPEsI6j2bV-4T-T/s1600/IMG_7479.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhknSEYakBu5_2A1Sm2KUdmxwKTs_icU0vOpezc1geBj8pqYjzK0GnSop-QPiKl-5NkSJ6Roy3sQfzxFLf-GnuSvt8LedXbEeXLpHmL9Ht_xRFNV5rWvAt9YHsxXdr-zPPEsI6j2bV-4T-T/s320/IMG_7479.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Nutcracker soldiers are terrifying.</div>
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Look at these two on the end. Jesus.</div>
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Maybe the uniforms will make it better?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0nM3N708ngg3M2yqas4kCAJJzR-LxLOvA1DgjbfrDKkAGRS3YsPV7bzYezOCwbLmHnkcZWPSmiTBKKmvSUZQ7Wi-km_-SULwA0TmSu-_ILMtZJOQlca2KJqEjhW5D0Pw29UZ5QSknO1M/s1600/IMG_7484.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0nM3N708ngg3M2yqas4kCAJJzR-LxLOvA1DgjbfrDKkAGRS3YsPV7bzYezOCwbLmHnkcZWPSmiTBKKmvSUZQ7Wi-km_-SULwA0TmSu-_ILMtZJOQlca2KJqEjhW5D0Pw29UZ5QSknO1M/s320/IMG_7484.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Oh god, it's worse.</div>
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How is it worse?</div>
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The teeth don't help, but if you don't have the teeth it's not a Nutcracker.</div>
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Is it the eyes?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_UrNXQAJJWxlko3IieDmKMSy1TMCTiMCAh24orebbUtn_fGzy6kDACegU_gzNjEZG7jaDlYx0CVw8vpW8Z-NzQkAIoL3T39hJ7q8tfLL7u1DOLa0RLr0V8pwHDoYdexo1twL74QKke2nS/s1600/IMG_74842.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_UrNXQAJJWxlko3IieDmKMSy1TMCTiMCAh24orebbUtn_fGzy6kDACegU_gzNjEZG7jaDlYx0CVw8vpW8Z-NzQkAIoL3T39hJ7q8tfLL7u1DOLa0RLr0V8pwHDoYdexo1twL74QKke2nS/s320/IMG_74842.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOjCcI72RWxaj0wAHEsr0Whuc3J2BDUL7noHimZCleZYlS7-bDbn69h1i9T-nAGt_QavRQdPuUVjtM1_WJqx9ePUfTu6b0LNSFBmk4oQGlFyMtYEd-zXvMfT5R5Hx-KtguM9QAgXabrDi/s1600/IMG_7484.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="1013" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGOjCcI72RWxaj0wAHEsr0Whuc3J2BDUL7noHimZCleZYlS7-bDbn69h1i9T-nAGt_QavRQdPuUVjtM1_WJqx9ePUfTu6b0LNSFBmk4oQGlFyMtYEd-zXvMfT5R5Hx-KtguM9QAgXabrDi/s320/IMG_7484.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's definitely the eyes.</div>
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Like staring into the abyss.</div>
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Ok, new plan. I'll repaint the eyes into cute smiley eyes. And hopefully that will make the mouth cute instead of... vaguely flesh-eating.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioLbQDssWl_WKNnQLGlFuZVSkFEH1yjrij_g4rM5OYb53l6bPz_Eh9LxquwBLSg8M54R9yzL8rnEa02UjHOYAXqabkkZKWD2yxdzEBdKOFak2lmYi4xdSZM4OSO2q0s9OthybEENtgOnaV/s1600/IMG_7520.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioLbQDssWl_WKNnQLGlFuZVSkFEH1yjrij_g4rM5OYb53l6bPz_Eh9LxquwBLSg8M54R9yzL8rnEa02UjHOYAXqabkkZKWD2yxdzEBdKOFak2lmYi4xdSZM4OSO2q0s9OthybEENtgOnaV/s320/IMG_7520.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Ohhhh thank god. The nightmare is over.</div>
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Time to paint the rest in bright candy colours.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKT-KmyoeN5ZTRuirQ722ViOQ9pLJLvkG9Q4WXSyZJxPQNowVbyhIWmWfuJkiFrGaMzdpkIqrf8AMwI3dLdbf7JYh_pME45JmWve5jWw82BEwDnvSMVzWwPACgbJOO16gQK0ptMuueYrtY/s1600/IMG_7511.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKT-KmyoeN5ZTRuirQ722ViOQ9pLJLvkG9Q4WXSyZJxPQNowVbyhIWmWfuJkiFrGaMzdpkIqrf8AMwI3dLdbf7JYh_pME45JmWve5jWw82BEwDnvSMVzWwPACgbJOO16gQK0ptMuueYrtY/s320/IMG_7511.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7vJPMaqC-KOOsWWlBJ69XA5h57gfiM2tyrJyiwqn8c-bOH6fY4Jk4O1fKXeHCUw4Lqe6HsjxhZga6EfGG5VRXHilSvL058B9rDpaRdtaBmTOfsJXkFam7soTFDm6TALmRimuy-zVITDsx/s1600/IMG_7508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7vJPMaqC-KOOsWWlBJ69XA5h57gfiM2tyrJyiwqn8c-bOH6fY4Jk4O1fKXeHCUw4Lqe6HsjxhZga6EfGG5VRXHilSvL058B9rDpaRdtaBmTOfsJXkFam7soTFDm6TALmRimuy-zVITDsx/s320/IMG_7508.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirpZ9c3knqTS3u3kt2Nxe9UeZP5RJLDfWv4kvrtaMsu06SplrofGsaREpHCUmubZW16KdTDOggUts4k53LDRE5IS5aAPK1-pkvhOHFO_elRzPixz7FIOP7M3zgH_fLmWKWT8lBa5aA1sTy/s1600/IMG_7518.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirpZ9c3knqTS3u3kt2Nxe9UeZP5RJLDfWv4kvrtaMsu06SplrofGsaREpHCUmubZW16KdTDOggUts4k53LDRE5IS5aAPK1-pkvhOHFO_elRzPixz7FIOP7M3zgH_fLmWKWT8lBa5aA1sTy/s320/IMG_7518.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Like happy Brussel sprouts.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKroCF1oTpTk4Q-p-VFbtneD99LgpWG0BDvQ66hl3mSU0XC2rVoamvw9R4BYBK6e9x6Xf3XXpsGs4aBaFkpYywbqXsOphUygVxSgTfkbx_KXHUSfhW-c4Lqwb_91wFq82j5_DYShevHTm/s1600/IMG_7514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTKroCF1oTpTk4Q-p-VFbtneD99LgpWG0BDvQ66hl3mSU0XC2rVoamvw9R4BYBK6e9x6Xf3XXpsGs4aBaFkpYywbqXsOphUygVxSgTfkbx_KXHUSfhW-c4Lqwb_91wFq82j5_DYShevHTm/s320/IMG_7514.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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If Wes Anderson did the Nutcracker.</div>
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The pink ones are my favourite. </div>
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Merry Christmas, peeps.</div>
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<br />Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-88815754207037929482019-11-18T12:41:00.001+00:002019-11-18T12:41:42.718+00:00An inviteHello my lovely loves!<br />
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Something a little different today!<br />
One of my friends asked me to use my more relaxed sketch style that I use when drawing on location to create a wedding invitation design for him and his ladylove.<br />
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They got married in Italy in October so the design had to reflect both the season and the region. This was the final outcome.<br />
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Congratulations, guys!<br />
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H<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8iYRE7J_kg0K1IW5EP7ld6WE7e2FiPaYJtRvMUvnWixURWtu1hGNLUtZ5P9sVlDs4P14ArOUwAuzWuFFzVxMHvIL4sdnvpFC_IPsax_g5c7duB8aBcm9ZgK9vHWMmhTDBhuhNd82O3or/s1600/Screenshot+2019-02-11+at+14.14.36.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1334" data-original-width="945" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8iYRE7J_kg0K1IW5EP7ld6WE7e2FiPaYJtRvMUvnWixURWtu1hGNLUtZ5P9sVlDs4P14ArOUwAuzWuFFzVxMHvIL4sdnvpFC_IPsax_g5c7duB8aBcm9ZgK9vHWMmhTDBhuhNd82O3or/s400/Screenshot+2019-02-11+at+14.14.36.png" width="282" /></a></div>
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<br />Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-12120924817348254422019-11-01T12:28:00.001+00:002019-11-01T12:28:14.387+00:00Halloween 2019Hello my lovely loves,<br />
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Two posts in one week - will wonders never cease! To be honest I felt I should, because after I told everyone <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/10/christmas-cards.html" target="_blank">about my Christmas cards</a> they sold out so quickly that I feel a bit guilty leaving that post up when people won't be able to buy them!<br />
Thank you so much to everyone who bought them. It was so wonderful knowing that they've all been sold and that people liked them so much.<br />
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So I thought it was an excellent time to show everyone my Halloween costume from this year.<br />
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I knew I wanted to be either Morticia or Gomez, but I couldn't decide which, so I decided to be both!<br />
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I've seen half and half costumes done before, but I've always felt like two characters from the same thing (or perhaps two characters that are played by the same person) have an edge over man/woman costumes - they just just make more sense to me.<br />
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Tiny Hannah accompanied my costume with her own Tiny Wednesday outfit, complete with axe, and Mum and David were Grandmama and Fester.<br />
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Poor David. He's never even seen the Addams Family (somehow??) and had to look up what the character was like to know what to do. As you'll see from the photos, he tackled this issue by picking one facial expression from google images and sticking with it religiously in every photo.<br />
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I also created two YouTube videos showing how I made the costume, the props and the extras, like the Thing I made from a hand shaped candle.<br />
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/LuOSCibGXEA/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LuOSCibGXEA?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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Part one is costume construction.</div>
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<br /><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ot6nb_-7HDY/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ot6nb_-7HDY?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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Part two is extras and props.</div>
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And without further ado, here is our Addams Family. Happy Halloween, guys!</div>
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"Don't laugh. I know he's still making </div>
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The Face, but don't laugh."</div>
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<br />Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-33358555275295699962019-10-28T08:17:00.000+00:002019-10-28T08:17:31.912+00:00Christmas cards :)<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;">Hello my lovely loves!</span></span><div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's been a little while while I've been preparing for Halloween and Christmas fun, but </span>finally<span style="font-family: inherit;"> it's all come together. My cards are now on general sale!</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">These have really been intense to create. It's basically taken me all year because there is so much work in them. But on the other hand, that means I'm particularly proud of them.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I decided to create a card/craft kit hybrid. I always struggle if either I want to give a gift but can't afford it, if someone is in that grey area between card or gift recipient, or if they live abroad and sending a full gift is hella expensive.</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">So... craft kit cards!</span></div>
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<br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">Cards are available on </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/HannahRadenkova" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">my Etsy shop here</a><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">, and you can check out the video tutorials </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJqb3Oh0SXA" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">here (gingerbread house)</a><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: inherit;"> and </span><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3drvlWkobQ" style="color: #999999; font-family: inherit; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">here (carousel).</a><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">As ever, 10% of the profits of the cards will be going to Crisis at Christmas, to give much needed support to the homeless.</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">I hope you like them as much as I do!</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: inherit;">H</span></div>
Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-17502804247290501082019-09-02T12:14:00.000+01:002019-09-02T12:14:59.666+01:00Standby Hedgehog: The PrequelHello my lovely loves,<br />
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Just a quick one today to ask you to bear with me. I hate to break my once a month streak, but summer has proved rather busy and exhausting so I'm afraid it will take a little time before I come back with another in-depth post.<br />
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There will most likely be some crafty bits coming up soon, however, as I am stuck into Halloween and Christmas organisation now. It takes so long to do everything now that I plan things at least a year in advance; I already know what next year's Halloween costume will be, and I have an idea for the one after that as well.<br />
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In the mean time, here is Standby Hedgehog living his best damn life.<br />
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<br />Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-37226129944576764962019-07-16T13:14:00.000+01:002019-07-16T13:14:05.414+01:00Disabled Pride and "I don't see you as Disabled"<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello my lovely loves,</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Today I wanted to talk to you about something I’ve seen online, particularly as the summer includes a lot of Disability Pride events.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Recently a hashtag spread around twitter - <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23DisabledCompliments&src=recent_search_click" target="_blank">#disabledcompliments</a> - and I want to address it a bit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s similar in a lot of ways to my post on the “<a href="http://superpooped.blogspot.com/2015/03/you-dont-look-sick.html" target="_blank">You Don’t Look Sick-ers</a>” and my guide on “<a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2015/03/what-not-to-say-to-sick-people-rough.html" target="_blank">What not to say to Sick People</a>", but it’s been a little while since then and I just wanted to update my thoughts on it, because there was one thing that cropped up that I don’t think I mentioned in those posts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"I don’t see you as ‘disabled'.”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is a fairly common thing to hear, and it’s pretty clear that those saying it think they’re paying you a compliment. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m going to give you a hint here - it’s not.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">“Don’t worry, I don’t see you as…” never ends with a positive statement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The most common way of ending that sentence is with something negative. Lazy, stupid, bossy, weak, whatever it is.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When someone says this then it’s to reassure someone that they’re not something bad. It’s a statement of commiseration.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And even if the person saying it loves the disabled person, they’re still saying that they think negatively of the disabled community at large.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The disabled person doesn’t stop being disabled because you said that. They know they are. They now also know that you think being disabled is inherently negative.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You’re also signalling that you’re less likely to help them with things on the basis that you don’t think they’re disabled enough to require it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Not being considered disabled, or disabled <i>enough, </i>is a legitimate health risk for a lot of us. It means we’re less likely to be given access to support (monetary and otherwise) and things we need to live a healthy life. This is especially true of those with invisible illnesses.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If someone said “I don’t see you as ‘having a severe peanut allergy’” to someone with a severe peanut allergy, it would a. be ridiculous because they <i>do</i>, and b. make them extremely wary about eating anything the person got them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I don’t like being disabled by my chronic illness, but... my chronic illness happens to be very disabling. Some people’s might be less so, we are not one homogeneous entity. Some may have had their illness or disability their whole life. They likely see it as an integral part of their personalities, just like being left-handed, or gay, or particularly keen on avocados.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Those differences don’t make a disabled person <i>lacking</i>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Whether we like it or not, those illnesses or disabilities are a part of us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is not for you to presume that someone dislikes a part of themselves. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you came up to someone, particularly a stranger, and said, “don’t worry, I don’t see you as ‘ugly’”, that would not be a compliment.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And if you replaced “disabled” with any other minority group? Still looking like a compliment? No. You would sound racist/sexist/homophobic/transphobic/etc. Because that’s what you'd be.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">You do not get to decide what someone is or isn’t, and you do not get to decide whether the thing they are (or aren’t) is acceptable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This issue relates very closely to the “don’t let your disability be your identity” trope. Disability or chronic illness is seen as something so negative, that the concept of being proud of it or including it in our outward persona is completely incomprehensible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s often framed as a tool to try and motivate the disabled people into more fulfilling lives, but the key here is that people think that “fulfilling” means “as an abled person lives”.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This concept is so ingrained that it’s usually impossible to comprehend someone living a fulfilling life AND being disabled. People assume the two are mutually exclusive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And therefore that anyone who isn’t pursuing an abled concept of living a fulfilled life is giving up on being fulfilled in life (or life itself) altogether. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s often those who struggle the most to seem “normal” and don’t talk about their conditions that are the most rewarded by society, even if doing so is injuring them or exacerbating their problems.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When people accept their conditions and take steps to make their lives easier, especially if that makes them appear more visibly disabled, is when they’re considered to have given up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">“Giving up on life” is bandied about A LOT. But giving up on an abled life is not giving up on life. It’s knowing your limitations, accepting them, and living the most fulfilling life you can.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And EVERYONE, disabled or not, has limitations.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I’d argue that most abled people are not able to live the most fulfilling life they want to either, because very few people have the access to the funds, or support necessary to do so. Perhaps they suffer from another kind of discrimination that prohibits them from doing things they’d otherwise enjoy. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Very, very few people achieve all their dreams in life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">There are things in this life that I know I may not get to do because of my condition, and that is heartbreaking. But, there is absolutely no guarantee I’d be given the opportunity to do them if I wasn’t sick. None. That is life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Some people do achieve things, amazing things, with disabilities. And I’ve spoken about this in a <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2018/08/my-response-to-afflicted.html" target="_blank">previous post on inspiration porn</a>, which is where Disabled People Achieving Things is held up to society in general as proof that humans can do anything IF THEY JUST PUT THEIR MIND TO IT (and looks down on those who don’t excel or achieve these things).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Disabled and chronically ill people are treated both as less than human and more-than-human. Often at the same time.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">After a while, all of that starts to make you think of it with less equanimity. Even the most earnest “inspirational” video can come across as, “well if a DISABLED PERSON can do it, just think what THE REST OF US could do!”</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When society continually puts people like you forward as inspiration fodder, but looks down on those of your group that don’t excel, it can make you feel jaded. It can make you feel ashamed of who you are, because we are no less immune to these assumptions than anyone else.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">But it can also make you double down, and feel all the more determined to be proud of who you are.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don’t pretend to know everything about this subject: our issues are complex and I can’t speak for such a massive, diverse group, but I know this. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">W</span>e’re not performing monkeys. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We aren’t here to make people feel good about themselves, or to push them to try and make something of themselves, or teach some grand, important lesson in life. If someone learns something, fine, but we’re not background characters in an abled person’s life, we’re the stars of our very own technicolour stories.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Yes, we have issues. We have to do things differently, or not at all. But, you know what? So do lots of people. I can’t go run a marathon. A lot of abled people can, but... they don’t.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I can draw, pretty bloody well, actually. A lot of abled people can’t.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We’re not more or less than human. If anything we are a concentrated version of humanity. Its ingenuity, its flexibility and ability to cope with change, its perseverance, and yes, its pain, its struggles and its lowest moments, where sometimes there is no recovery.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We are the most diverse minority, with people from every race, religion, age, gender and sexuality. We are a microcosm of all the ups and downs in life, and all the ways people can respond to them, is displayed in each of us.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When you look at us we’re not subhuman, or superhuman, we’re arguably the most human humans.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And one way or another, by accident or age, you’re probably going to be one of us. And that’s ok. You should be bloody proud of it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Because we are.</span></div>
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Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-43747113730513156902019-06-09T10:23:00.001+01:002019-06-09T10:23:28.634+01:00On Getting Better<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello my lovely loves,</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Before we go any further, I’m afraid I’m not better. I’m still sick, and, although I have seen some (very small) improvements, I imagine that will be true for a while.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">But today I wanted to talk about what sometimes happens when people do get better.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">There seems to be trend I’ve noticed over the years where if a sufferer improves, either marginally or completely, they are often told they didn’t have M.E. in the first place.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In some cases I can understand it, either because they didn’t show classic ME symptoms or because they’re now trying to sell you something.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Even with others I’ve caught myself wondering. But I’m trying to train myself out of that because speculation like that isn’t helpful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">There is currently no diagnostic test for M.E. so we will NEVER know for certain. Speculation will never lead us anywhere concrete, so it’s an impulse that can only do yourself and others harm.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We’ve all had our run-ins with people who don’t think we’re disabled or sick enough, and it’s always hurtful. But it’s doubly as hurtful when it comes from another disabled or chronically ill person, someone who’s meant to understand what that feels like.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s ok to be sad about not being better. It’s ok to be angry about it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">But you can feel sad and angry for yourself and still be happy for others.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It may take time to be able to do that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Optimum Health Clinic has a whole host of Recovery Story videos on YouTube and for a long time I just couldn’t bring myself to watch them. It hurt too much, so I decided to wait until I felt ready.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Sometimes I would mute people online or unfollow if I couldn’t manage. I still do if it’s wall-to-wall new baby photos because that makes me sad, even when I’m happy for my friends who have become parents.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">But there’s a fine line.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s ok to need a break, and to distance yourself if you need to for your own sanity, but it’s not ok to put that burden on the person who is better, and it’s certainly not ok to berate them for their joy, or to call into question their illness or their suffering.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">They may have been misdiagnosed, they may not. But if you woke up tomorrow and were better, whether by miracle or new treatment or new diagnosis, would that change the suffering you’ve already been through?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Would the time you’d spent alone and in pain suddenly not have happened?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Of course not.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And how awful would it be to finally, FINALLY get better, only for everyone who you thought was on your side to berate you for it? To be angry at you for being happy you weren’t sick, or weren’t as bad? For even maybe having something extra or different to what you’d originally thought?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">And who’s to say that your recovery wouldn’t give clues about where M.E. researchers might look further? It could be the beginning of a whole new breakthrough!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you get better from ANY illness you do not owe anyone your silence or to only post sadness. By all means try to be sensitive - I think most people who have lived with this hell are all too aware of how difficult it can be and try to be sensitive to those still suffering - but you are allowed to be joyful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I would be heartbroken if I finally got what I’ve spent years longing for only to discover that EVERYTHING I’ve done trying to help fellow sufferers and their allies on this blog, for example, was now deemed hollow and untrustworthy. Because even if I ended up having something else (which I’m pretty sure I don’t, even though most if not all sufferers have wished for it at some point) everything I’ve already done has been done under the impression I have M.E. In. Good. Faith.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you need to mute that person on social media, fine. If you’re not able to deal with their joy, that’s ok. But please don’t make them feel guilty for having what we all crave so much. They probably already do anyway because of the messed-up way society treats the sick and disabled, particularly those with invisible illnesses.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The point is, they are not sending these things to you to hurt you, they’re shouting them to the world because they’ve felt silenced for so long.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We’ve already lost enough friends because we got sick. We shouldn’t have to lose more if we get better.</span></div>
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<span style="direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">And in the end there’s one less person suffering in the world. Even if it’s only a marginal improvement. Does it really matter how or why? Surely it can only be a good thing.</span></span></div>
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<span style="direction: ltr; unicode-bidi: embed;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Who knows? Next time it might be you.</span></span></div>
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Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-36894555488791011022019-05-15T09:47:00.000+01:002019-05-15T10:14:48.583+01:00ME Symptoms and Tips: Sleep Issues - Part Four<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part.html" target="_blank">PART ONE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_13.html" target="_blank">PART TWO</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_14.html" target="_blank">PART THREE</a> ~ PART FOUR</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Hello my lovely loves!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Welcome to the final section of this extremely long discussion on sleep health. If you've made it this far, congratulations, you are a trooper.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Our fourth and final section is looking at anxiety and how that relates to sleep.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Dealing with Anxiety/Sleep Anxiety</u></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My experience of sleep issues was difficult. It took me a while to get a decent sleep environment, a routine that worked for me and find the level of activity that stopped overstimulation. But by far my most difficult issue was sleep anxiety, which I still struggle with on occasion.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Anxiety is a problem for me, more generally, and can be for insomniacs as well. Stress and anxiety are fairly common causes of sleep issues, but for me it ended up morphing into anxieties specifically about sleeping.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s hardly surprising that having an energy condition can make you very nervous about not getting enough sleep, but for a long time I didn’t actually realise that it was anxiety, not insomnia itself, that was causing me problems.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I never knew when it would happen, but sometimes I would have what I called at the time “insomnia attacks”. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">My temperature would skyrocket and I’d be dripping with sweat, my heart would beat incredibly fast, I’d feel dizzy and faint, would shake constantly, and would often end up throwing up. I had to wake up my mum to come and lie down with me just to get my heart to stop racing and to calm down enough to even think of going to sleep. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mum, saint that she is, would usually stay with me until I had gone to sleep to make sure I was alright. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This happened at least twice a month to begin with and would take me days, or weeks to get over. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I can recognise now, of course, that these were actually full blown panic attacks.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s taken a very long time to find something that works to deal with this, and, as I’ve said, it still happens now and again, although thankfully not to the degree it did before.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I tried a variety of different coping mechanisms for dealing with it, and then slowly took away the less effective, or those that gradually became unnecessary, until I was left with a core toolset.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">These steps can also be helpful for dealing with stress and anxiety at night.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Routine</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Establishing a routine is something most people tell you is useful to getting a good night’s rest, and can therefore be frustrating to hear, but it is actually a useful tool if you think about it in the right way.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A lot of people find routines a bit stifling, but what you’re actually trying to do is either find or create triggers to let your body know it’s time to go to sleep. That’s it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">There maybe be things you already find do this (like closing the curtains, or brushing your teeth), but routine is useful because it trains your body and mind to see certain tasks and behaviours as signals to relax and sleep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">You’re essentially trying to train yourself like Pavlov’s dog. But with hopefully less drooling.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSKKBD1OruANyfriuqqLPmuB1UovotGi2PPysIR8FkqI7IKwBf-EkGOMkjdayIAOa2tkAz6V06icRKhXtQ_dMAJkYzHqnE6q85lEGptyKfNrkPzaKQOmB61oM8I2RFo5UFIUQfx4R9vsN/s1600/Pug-with-tongue-out-drooling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmSKKBD1OruANyfriuqqLPmuB1UovotGi2PPysIR8FkqI7IKwBf-EkGOMkjdayIAOa2tkAz6V06icRKhXtQ_dMAJkYzHqnE6q85lEGptyKfNrkPzaKQOmB61oM8I2RFo5UFIUQfx4R9vsN/s320/Pug-with-tongue-out-drooling.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.dogster.com/dog-health-care/dog-drooling-normal-or-not" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If it helps, think of yourself in this fabulous animal trainer’s outfit.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXoELz5dELFmn3ajE-AUhPCl9xp15XECNa0sbRhePhzrNIkqCSxrdEzktDYiL3bZkQVRToJsJqgp76IFUpW94BVp2uy0MqHLDs5-Tjw-SPrrDoQbd6k1Q3fds9E4j8JuNVafF9jaZ68tc-/s1600/hqdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="480" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXoELz5dELFmn3ajE-AUhPCl9xp15XECNa0sbRhePhzrNIkqCSxrdEzktDYiL3bZkQVRToJsJqgp76IFUpW94BVp2uy0MqHLDs5-Tjw-SPrrDoQbd6k1Q3fds9E4j8JuNVafF9jaZ68tc-/s320/hqdefault.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Clearly letting your chest hair be free is very important to animal training.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">(Wild animal circuses are not a good idea btw. Be aware.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ogVnvP0eQM" target="_blank">Source - this very strange song.</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For some people this will be simple, but given the fact you’re reading this, chances are that you need something a bit more comprehensive. Sorry, dude.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">For my routine I’ve mentioned I have a wind down time. I have that and a light’s off time, rather than a single set bed time. My wind down time starts from when I go upstairs to my room (if I’m not there already). </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I also don’t keep those times rigidly structured, but give myself a window. If you have a specific time to do things it can add pressure and make you more anxious, so leaving a certain amount of flexibility should help keep that at bay.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Most professionals say you should try and keep your bed for sleeping, and try to go to sleep as soon as you’re in it, but that’s frankly not very practical, especially if you’re chronically ill. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">By giving myself a wind down period, I take that pressure off, and limit my activities to ones I find help me relax, not wind me up. I never read from a physical book in bed for example, because I find that harder to put down than reading on my phone.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s that halfway house that tells my body and mind that it’s getting to the end of the day, so soon it’ll be time to sleep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I can’t tell you exactly what your routine should be, because everyone is different, but I think the most important things to remember when building one is that a. you’re doing it for a good reason, and b. it can change over time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sometimes when realising we need to establish certain rules, it can feel like a punishment, but it’s actually not. It’s the familiar concept of short term pain for long term gain. Doing so will likely mean you have more energy and stabilise or improve your condition in order to have more options over time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m not saying you can’t get upset or angry about it (I have definitely had a little cry on a summer’s evening when I’m in bed and I can hear the neighbour’s children still playing outside), but try to remember your goal. And that, secondly, it’s not forever.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">When I first started my routine I really struggled with the concept because it felt like a life sentence. That I’d be going to bed at 5pm forever, and have lights out at 8pm, and have all these specific, set-in-stone things to do. But that’s not what happened. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Routines <i>change</i> over time, and that’s normal.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I still go upstairs between 5 and 6pm, but it’s more some peaceful time I give myself rather than have taken away from me. The act of going upstairs is the trigger, so I don’t need to be strict with the timings, or what my wind-down activities are. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don’t settle down to sleep now until 9 or half past, because I’ve managed to find what works for me, and I don’t need to spend the extra time using sleep-inducing tools to get me to sleep.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s still early, but it works for me and I ultimately feel better for it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The following sections are everything I’ve done during my routine, after lights out, to help me sleep. They’re arranged in the order I would follow. Some I still use, some I really don’t need anymore and only break out occasionally. I’ll let you know which is which as we go.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Tapping/EFT</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s the point in every tips post where I explain EFT/Tapping is a weird psychological tool that looks and sounds ridiculous but I’ve actually found really helpful. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">One of these days I’ll actually get round to doing a post on it exclusively so I can stop talking about it separately each time.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you aren’t aware already, <a href="https://www.emofree.com/" target="_blank">EFT</a> (Emotional Freedom Therapy), or Tapping, is a way of working through your worries and emotions about issues in a more manageable way. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Using it for sleep has been the most effective tool against my Sleep Anxiety because I’m able to get everything that’s worrying me off my chest before I settle down, and I do it every single night.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I tap I talk through all the possible things that could go wrong; not being able to relax, not being able to drop off, having nightmares, waking up and not being able to get back to sleep again. The words I use have shortened over time, but I’ve said them so often now that I start to yawn constantly whilst doing it.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’s worked out as an extremely effective trigger for my brain to switch off.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Meditation</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you don’t want to do tapping you can always try meditating. There are loads of different guided ones available online to download. Try a few samples and pick someone who sounds relaxing to you. I like <a href="https://www.withandrewjohnson.com/" target="_blank">Andrew Johnson</a> the best.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Many end with suggesting that you sleep, which I’ll get into a bit more later.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Focus on comfort</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This may be part of the meditation you do, but instead of getting caught in your head, try to focus on all the nice things about your environment. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This can take practise, as it's very hard to snap out of your head once you're there, but focusing on the nice soft sheets you've debobbled, your comfy mattress topper and your squishy pillow helps you to stop going in circles.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you can stop a spiral it makes relaxation a lot easier.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Stops</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Sometimes, even with Tapping, my brain still likes to provide me with all sorts of information and worries that keep me awake. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In those circumstances, I use the Stop method laid out for me by the Optimum Health Clinic. I’m not sure how much detail I can go into, because it’s not technically my method, but I’ve altered it a little in that whatever’s bothering me I mentally load into a giant catapult and punt into the distance. Whilst telling them to do one. It’s very effective.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(Seriously though, the actual method they use involves categorising your thought patterns so you can separate yourself from it and is very useful too, so if you’re able to do their course I would recommend it for that, and the other psychological tools they give you. It is rather expensive though.)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Notepad by the Bed</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">An oldie but a goodie. Keep a notepad by the bed to write down things your brain just won’t let go of. This will usually be tasks you need to complete. Or in my case, things to mention in my next blog post. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let the notepad take the strain.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Visualisation</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visualisations are a bit like self-guided daydreams. They’re designed to help you see how you want things to go in your mind. You can also use them like personalised meditations to signal to your brain it’s time to sleep.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m a very visual person, and sometimes meditations can be a bit boring. A beach. A forest. A lake. These are fine, but I like to add deta</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">ils to make them feel really real. And sometimes add a bit of whimsy.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Two visualisations I’ve used regularly involve “taking off the day”. In the first I walk around my dream house, locking the doors, saying good night to all the rooms, washing, and even clocking out on an old machine that goes from “awake” to “asleep”.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The second is even more elaborate and involves deciding on a beautiful dress that I think sums up that day. I’m talking full fairy princess. After all, it’s in my head and I can wear whatever I want, so I might as well make it fun.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZARp73MS60r2VNxFRY_P6Ho_QZ1PrEuhN8qbImOva0AIlLw75Q6ARzPqv9tpBEXz69-OyWexoW1c59OQlnr0cdxhc5sSopKffthA_Ek05RQ_ljYoFSg36A2Sxe0ndxjaXGKiSNOWmGGWS/s1600/ac-night-goddess-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="627" height="254" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZARp73MS60r2VNxFRY_P6Ho_QZ1PrEuhN8qbImOva0AIlLw75Q6ARzPqv9tpBEXz69-OyWexoW1c59OQlnr0cdxhc5sSopKffthA_Ek05RQ_ljYoFSg36A2Sxe0ndxjaXGKiSNOWmGGWS/s320/ac-night-goddess-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is my jam.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://leifeshallcross.com/2017/02/05/the-dress/" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m slowly helped to change out of my fabulous gown into comfy nightwear, so I’m literally removing the weight of the days worries and stresses. I have imaginary helpers so I can give that weight to someone else. Sometimes particularly difficult things will be represented by very heavy jewellery, so you can imagine yourself feeling lighter as it comes off for the day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don’t use this one so often anymore, simply because I don’t need it, but it’s a nice one, and really great at putting your mind into a better state.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Sleep Tracks</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">If the visualisation didn’t work then I would break out a sleep track. These I do still use occasionally, even though a lot of the interim steps have become largely obsolete.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mine is from the <a href="https://www.theoptimumhealthclinic.com/" target="_blank">Optimum Health Clinic</a>, but there are a lot of these available online.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I would recommend having them on something different than your phone, because hopefully by this point your phone is off and not tempting you with social media and cat videos.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I use an iPod shuffle for my sleep and meditation tracks, but any simple MP3 player would do. It’s entirely possible you have one lying in a drawer somewhere.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I like the shuffle because it doesn’t have a screen, so there’s no display to accidentally wake me up when I’m starting to get sleepy.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’d also recommend making sure you have something on after your favourite sleeping tracks that is a soft sound. You don’t want to have finally started to drift and then get blasted by death metal.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNm9sj2kFO2rlan3JPnY7EaJA8nSyO2zwD0O7iAHqlzX1SGL3hwwr2n30ugN0fbUVqr_48ZXrXn6nAB_23VkEuvUl9g5uXOd7ZpwNODevKlmdzjaGNNEpSrw1iQ31mvupbWLtOHaDubQze/s1600/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="540" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNm9sj2kFO2rlan3JPnY7EaJA8nSyO2zwD0O7iAHqlzX1SGL3hwwr2n30ugN0fbUVqr_48ZXrXn6nAB_23VkEuvUl9g5uXOd7ZpwNODevKlmdzjaGNNEpSrw1iQ31mvupbWLtOHaDubQze/s320/giphy.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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Lol to this gif.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://giphy.com/gifs/game-of-thrones-jon-snow-awake-3o7qE2fiT5seO2lIre" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">To begin with I would use sleeping tracks every night and still be awake at the end of a track. Then I would find myself missing parts and waking up enough during the next track (rain sounds) to turn it off and put it away. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Eventually I fell asleep enough during the track that it became unnecessary.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Relaxation</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Before I started to fall asleep during the sleep tracks I would do a relaxation meditation afterwards. Rather than a guided mediation, at this stage I preferred a self guided one, as there’s nothing to turn off afterwards.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I would start at my left toes, and go through each section of each limb, imagining them relaxing. I would often use the phrasing my various meditations tracks had used as a guide.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Sleeping tablets</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">If I've gone through all these various stages and it’s still not happening, I use sleeping tablets.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">They’re not something I like to rely on all the time, but having them available to me has made an INCREDIBLE amount of difference.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">As I’ve said before, you might find it a little difficult to get prescribed straight-up sedatives. Some GPs are unwilling to give them to use all the time, as they can be addictive. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you have other issues, like pain, then your GP will probably explore other avenues before breaking out the big guns.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">By the time I actually got round to asking for them, my main problem was the sleep anxiety. Most other avenues have other options, but it’s a little more difficult to control anxiety issues.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I explained to the doctor what was happening, and our discussion wound down to this; if you know you <i>can</i> sleep, you worry less that you <i>can’t</i>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Having access to sleeping tablets has made me need them less, because I know that if things get really bad I can take a tablet. I have a safety net, and that has calmed me down massively. I only take half at a time and that’s usually enough to help me drift off.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">For a time I felt guilty and nervous about using sleeping tablets, but I average out at around one box of Zopiclone (28 tablets) a year. Some people have to use them every night (and that’s ok too). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">For daily peace of mind it’s 100% worth it. Over time I hope to slowly need them less and less until I ended up with a box that has gone out of date and I don’t feel the need to replace it anymore.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I do occasionally worry that my GP will take my single yearly box as a sign that I don’t actually need sleeping tablets (especially as I’ve recently moved GPs), but I’m pretty confident in my argument to keep them, and I have various other healthcare professionals who’ll back me up.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you think this is something that could really help you, then it’s worth talking to your GP about. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">One warning though: if you do take them, put water in your mouth first, chuck it to the back of you mouth and swallow as quickly as possible. Then drink more water. Potentially have a biscuit.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">They taste VILE. I got one caught in my throat once and I nearly vommed - it’s that bad.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I’m reasonably sure they’re deliberately manufactured to be as disgusting as possible to prevent you from using them too often.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Other options that might be suggested are Melatonin, Promethazine, and of course Amytriptaline. You can also try lavender teas and extracts, but make sure your doctor knows you're taking them if you're discussing medication options.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Have everything on hand</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It’ll help you keep calm if you have everything you might need close at hand before you settle down for the night.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">By my bed I keep:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Water</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Oat Biscuits (slow burn off)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Painkillers</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A hot water bottle</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A sleeping tablet (I have a small pill box with a pre cut tablet so I don’t accidentally take too much, or drop them when I’m struggling. The rest are elsewhere.) </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Earplugs - two different types</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Eye masks - two different types</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">iPod with sleep tracks</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Fan/heater remote</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Clock</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">A damp flannel in the summer)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Knowing every eventuality is covered allows you to relax and switch off much more easily.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">And finally…</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>A universal truth</u></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I want you to remember something: sleep fluctuates.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It doesn’t matter if you’re healthy or not, sleep cycles fluctuate and you will naturally have good days and bad days. Or nights, as the case may be. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Don’t panic when this happens, because there are so many things you can try, and there’s always another night to try again.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">I believe in you. You can do the thing. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_aarGp7OzbxSfFOObFQNm0sadHsSspknCTtLKhRbD3pFIHKM_-R3VQpnTCi9FKJ4VSKmgHh54jZ4cPcaYl918NsWLa-X9LTY3pIRHw9umba4_8nbOYPfJc913Z37_BBJp9z5R4VOP31Jb/s1600/IMG_8538.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="510" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_aarGp7OzbxSfFOObFQNm0sadHsSspknCTtLKhRbD3pFIHKM_-R3VQpnTCi9FKJ4VSKmgHh54jZ4cPcaYl918NsWLa-X9LTY3pIRHw9umba4_8nbOYPfJc913Z37_BBJp9z5R4VOP31Jb/s320/IMG_8538.JPG" width="226" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">May your sleep be as deep and soft as this cat’s leg floof.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">No source I'm afraid. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I just have this on my phone for when I feel sad.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">H</span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="margin: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part.html" target="_blank">PART ONE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_13.html" target="_blank">PART TWO</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_14.html" target="_blank">PART THREE</a> ~ PART FOUR</span></div>
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</div>
Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-76812601642110462852019-05-14T11:00:00.000+01:002019-05-15T09:47:32.516+01:00ME Symptoms and Tips: Sleep Issues - Part Three<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part.html" target="_blank">PART ONE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_13.html" target="_blank">PART TWO</a> ~ PART THREE ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_15.html" target="_blank">PART FOUR</a></div>
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<br />
Hello my lovely loves!<br />
<br />
Today we'll be diving back into optimising your sleep environment. All those things you never thought you needed to know about black out blinds and tog rating system.<br />
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<b>Black-out blinds and curtains</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Having a dark room can be really important to getting a good night’s sleep. It’s a massive signal to your brain to relax and go into sleep mode, and to stay asleep when it’s still dark.<br />
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Most people struggle when the early mornings and evenings are brighter in the spring and summer, and if this tends to be something that happens to you, investing in a decent black out blinds or curtains could be useful.<br />
Here are some options, all with different price points.<br />
<br />
1 - Black-out linings<br />
Many curtains come with black out linings built in, but you can also buy ones which layer underneath your current ones. Cheap, and effective, and can be used with other black-out options.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodHTY2pxqqJFN8N53yQNzaP76n0iY7suxZoDj10mYhtEsfNTsy31Mna6qUubPiR4yKRyPGl34ggebvGKI2EulzJhEjMGgWIDJO3mFVK9OovAXaAET9FddqP9tw9dUP81V9rBUcdvvOKab/s1600/BO+Lining+PT+1024px.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhodHTY2pxqqJFN8N53yQNzaP76n0iY7suxZoDj10mYhtEsfNTsy31Mna6qUubPiR4yKRyPGl34ggebvGKI2EulzJhEjMGgWIDJO3mFVK9OovAXaAET9FddqP9tw9dUP81V9rBUcdvvOKab/s320/BO+Lining+PT+1024px.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.shawsdirect.com/product/Thermal_Blackout_Linings_WHITE_46x51/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a></div>
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Just be aware that certain types of curtains will block more or less light depending on how they’re fixed to the curtain pole. Ones with massive eyelets look pretty, but will leave more gaps for light to break through and stab you in the eyes at 5 am.<br />
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2 - Standard Black-Out roller blinds<br />
These are available in most homeware and DIY shops and are the most affordable blind option. While not as effective as other, more expensive blind options, they can be pretty effective, especially when paired with black out curtains or linings.<br />
The are installed into the window frame and usually require power tools.<br />
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The downside to standard black-out roller blinds is that they have gaps at the sides and bottom where, you guessed it, light can sneak in and stab your unsuspecting eyeballs.<br />
An upside it that you can still have your window open behind, but in high winds the blind may slam back and forth.<br />
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I used to have a standard black-out roller blind and black out linings, but it wasn’t cutting it for me, so I chose the next option. (I also kept my curtains and black-out linings.)<br />
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3 - Cassette blind<br />
A cassette blind is similar to a roller blind, but lessens, or completely eliminates, the problems of having light peek round the bottom, top and sides of the blind when it’s closed.<br />
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The blind cassette is fitted flush to the top of the window recess and two tracks are installed either side of the blind, flush to the recessed wall. When the blind closes, the edges of the blind go in the tracks, meaning no light peeks through.<br />
The blind has a brush-like bottom attachment, to minimise the light from that angle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh282GpT-SQzpnyGEXqiFxhVOAECpoBtfKacmBb4hwggjmIIVEorC4jIjW-EzAHE0oPkFO4XznCYK1OTkROZGcAqNqQB5sQsNscaJvs5OyS5h5L7SdK_qJ5fo8rZnLU8UUf-uQT2Fd5uJ-p/s1600/cassette-blackout-blind-.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh282GpT-SQzpnyGEXqiFxhVOAECpoBtfKacmBb4hwggjmIIVEorC4jIjW-EzAHE0oPkFO4XznCYK1OTkROZGcAqNqQB5sQsNscaJvs5OyS5h5L7SdK_qJ5fo8rZnLU8UUf-uQT2Fd5uJ-p/s320/cassette-blackout-blind-.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://electricblindcompany.com/cassette-blackout-blind-/113-cassette-blackout-blind-.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a></div>
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There are usually tiny gaps where the runners and cassette meet the wall: no wall is perfectly straight, so it’s difficult for there to be no gaps at all. I’m tempted to use a sealant on mine, but I’m slightly nervous I’ll end up with no air flow in my room at all.<br />
<br />
These are really effective, but they are more expensive, and they really need to be fitted by a professional.<br />
<br />
These blinds are excellent insulators, which is brilliant in winter, and… less so in summer.<br />
It’s also difficult to leave a window open at night.<br />
Because the blind is so well fitted to the space, and the blind itself is plasticised so no light can come through the fabric, the air currents can create a bit of a vacuum, and the blind can be sucked out of its side tracks. When this happens you can manually put them back in (which isn’t difficult) but until you do you can end up with massive gaps in the blind. That’s when the sneaky 5am sunrise makes itself known to you.<br />
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Mine was around £230. Obviously that’s expensive, and I needed to save up for it, but it’s made such a difference for me that I don’t regret it.<br />
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4 - Perfect fit black-out blinds<br />
This was the other option I considered when I wanted to upgrade my black-out situation.<br />
Unlike other blinds or curtains, perfect fit blinds don’t attach to the wall or recess, but the window frame itself. You do have to have PVC windows for these to work, however.<br />
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Each individual window has a separate blind that affixes to the frame directly, between the glass and the sealant. They’re less expensive than cassette blinds, and you can order them online and install them yourself.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWk1cPNV10AuiKtFQn9bJSvEjPaD1A9W2Jt5uJC2vIHHfN1FvYqeqC8O2X9X7do0nFRzyCRi9mbY6ChXYNI1BRUaZhhSqmlI0C48cDwDxr5hKIuV9FFV3sC0mqqOU0nLZoa2LoCN6bETRT/s1600/perfect.bella.lavagrey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="991" data-original-width="833" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWk1cPNV10AuiKtFQn9bJSvEjPaD1A9W2Jt5uJC2vIHHfN1FvYqeqC8O2X9X7do0nFRzyCRi9mbY6ChXYNI1BRUaZhhSqmlI0C48cDwDxr5hKIuV9FFV3sC0mqqOU0nLZoa2LoCN6bETRT/s320/perfect.bella.lavagrey.jpg" width="268" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.orderblinds.co.uk/buy/blackout-lava-grey-perfect-fit-roller-blind_4597.htm" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
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If you do decide to buy these, make sure you choose black out roller blind options, as other options often have holes in the fabric for cords, like concertina blinds. The fabric of these isn’t plasticised, and the edges aren't enclosed, so they’re not as opaque as cassette blinds.<br />
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You can open a window at night with these fitted, however as soon as a window is open, that gap is no longer covered by fabric, which is why I didn’t choose to go for this in the end.<br />
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In a perfect world I might combine the two and have perfect fit blinds in addition to my cassette, for when it’s so hot in my room I don’t care about light knives to the face anymore. Although I suppose in a perfect world I wouldn’t be sick so… swings and roundabouts.<br />
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5 - The Mystical Metal Shutter Blinds of France<br />
I don’t even know what these are called, or if they’re sold in the UK, but on my last trip out of the country about 5 years ago, we stayed in a flat in Honfleur.<br />
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This place had metal blinds that you wound down with a crank handle from the top of the recess. They had a mid setting where there was still a tiny, tiny amount of light visible (I suspect for ventilation) and then you could keep rolling for a complete and total black out. Seriously. You couldn't see a thing.<br />
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You can have a window open and it didn’t matter because these things were made of metal and no wind would shift them.<br />
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They weren’t particularly attractive, but were still reasonably unobtrusive. They could’ve been bright orange, purple and green leopard print and I wouldn’t care. I have never slept so much, so consistently, in my life. I averaged about 11 hours every night we were there. (Although that may partially have been PEM from the long, probably inadvisable trip.)<br />
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I know it doesn’t make sense to mention these as I don’t know how to get them. The closest I've seen is an exterior roller shutter, but I can't find one adapted to be used from the inside. I even asked the guy who sold me my cassette about them and he’d never heard of them. But my god, I hope one day those are available in the UK.<br />
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I’m telling you so you can keep an eye out for them, for both your sakes and mine. If you see them sold anywhere, please email me immediately.<br />
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<b>Keeping your room dark otherwise</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Other things you can do to keep your room as dark as possible include:<br />
<br />
1 - Stick bits of black card, or duct tape over LEDs on plugs, and other appliances. They probably won’t annoy you when your curtains are rubbish, but you’ll notice them once your room is dark otherwise.<br />
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2 - Keep the doors on your sleep floor shut.<br />
All the black-out blinds in the world won't make a difference if there's light coming in from your doorway. I keep my door shut to cut out noise from the rest of the house, but it doubles to cut out extra light.<br />
We also shut the door to David's office (next to my room) in the spring and summer, as it's south facing, and the light is very bright in the morning. Otherwise it just wakes me up by creeping under my door.<br />
<br />
3 - Keep the landing light off if possible.<br />
This one is obvious, but... if you absolutely must have light in the hallway (perhaps you have kids) then try a couple of unobtrusive night lights instead of the full blown overhead light. That way there's enough to see if you need to, but not enough to disturb you when you're trying to sleep.<br />
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4 - Try a loo light.<br />
Bear with me on this one. Yes, it's important to have your room dark to fall asleep, but if you or someone else has to wee in the night, being blinded by the bathroom light isn't going to help you drift back off after.<br />
You can get <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Activated-Bathroom-Washroom-Steriliser-Scented/dp/B07GF5K4R4/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?keywords=toilet+light&qid=1557228958&s=gateway&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1" target="_blank">little motion sensor lights that hook into the toilet </a>so you have enough to get by, but not enough to wake you up. You can even choose the light colour you find least glaring.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxaqMfBZc439sdI1oj7JgRPrTswSzB8X8WTxrmFkrdKNup-ZK7ytWdTdtrzeAXzfZ_vAF3Ht-QbfCMDMEas-oQ82TIj1wYo7o34M3ndYR4mlMZ0tLrUVJLwuQ7c1OQWvDcGNLQ9RrAlEuN/s1600/71ApYEaSn4L._SX466_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="466" data-original-width="466" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxaqMfBZc439sdI1oj7JgRPrTswSzB8X8WTxrmFkrdKNup-ZK7ytWdTdtrzeAXzfZ_vAF3Ht-QbfCMDMEas-oQ82TIj1wYo7o34M3ndYR4mlMZ0tLrUVJLwuQ7c1OQWvDcGNLQ9RrAlEuN/s320/71ApYEaSn4L._SX466_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Toilet-Light-Motion-Activated-Energy-Efficient/dp/B01JBU3OJI" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
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5 - Choose a clock with no lights.<br />
I found <a href="http://www.ging-ko.co.uk/Cube-Click-Clock/" target="_blank">this amazing cube clock</a> online that looks like a wooden cube until you click or clap, and then it lights up with the time (and date and temperature, if you so choose).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdA1857IktvCTwrjmdS2VSX4DHjHTgM0S0cZsph07BiJAPYwz87vyrpEtYQehEoGqoCm59S97bX-oQzbUkMF-M8EKfAVPAgvMOPKVokDpA-R5Uo4Jzdpt5RgrHHJU3stWBpP5wNbHZAPT/s1600/Cube-schwarz-LED-weiss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcdA1857IktvCTwrjmdS2VSX4DHjHTgM0S0cZsph07BiJAPYwz87vyrpEtYQehEoGqoCm59S97bX-oQzbUkMF-M8EKfAVPAgvMOPKVokDpA-R5Uo4Jzdpt5RgrHHJU3stWBpP5wNbHZAPT/s320/Cube-schwarz-LED-weiss.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It’s silent because it’s digital, but it doesn’t have an annoying display lit-up all the time, and you can choose the wood, metal or stone finish and display colour combo.<br />
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6 - Use an eye mask.<br />
You might not be able to afford a new blind straight away, or be able to install something larger in a rented property, but you can always get an eye mask.<br />
Unbelievably, I use them in the spring and summer on top of my intense window covering situation. I NEED THE DARKNESS!<br />
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Pro-tip though, look for ones with no velcro, or with the hooky side facing outwards. I made the mistake of getting an adjustable one with the hooky velcro side facing inwards and it kept snagging in my hair all night.<br />
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I’d also try and get one with a decently sized nose space. Unless your nose is very flat, a straighter piece of fabric will create gaps either side of your nose.<br />
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I like the soft jersey ones the best, because they breathe, but you can also get these eye masks that are shaped pleasingly like little bras.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80eD701zjKDA-HGkQrSJ4cuhKFXJdRwaNrxx7hNXXbgEkgwlAFe8uK_bB4Mupx5dmWQbJMptTt12ATwPwLgj-msklFVD-K7Ra5spHKgtwSMDVr-RcpXwg7mHGztxKs8nOiIdZAmYgvXYS/s1600/81fZpfTl8zL._SY355_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="355" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80eD701zjKDA-HGkQrSJ4cuhKFXJdRwaNrxx7hNXXbgEkgwlAFe8uK_bB4Mupx5dmWQbJMptTt12ATwPwLgj-msklFVD-K7Ra5spHKgtwSMDVr-RcpXwg7mHGztxKs8nOiIdZAmYgvXYS/s320/81fZpfTl8zL._SY355_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.amazon.com/OriHea-Sleeping-Patented-Comfortable-Blindfold/dp/B078KCH1CM?th=1" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a></div>
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<b>Have a separate alarm</b><br />
<b><br /></b>I’ve mentioned that I turn my phone off at night to help prevent overstimulation and to signal to myself that it’s time to sleep. One thing that makes this possible is having a separate alarm clock.<br />
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Having an alarm is a great way to keep you sleep schedule reasonably consistent, even if you don’t HAVE to be up by a certain time.<br />
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It’s up to you which clock you choose, but try and make sure it’s one that doesn’t disturb you during the night, either without a constant light display as above, or with a silent mechanism.<br />
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I use a sunrise alarm. My mum got it for me for Christmas in 2017 and it’s been amazing. The display turns off once the alarm is set for the night, and then a light slowly comes on and reaches its full brightness at your selected time. You can choose that period to last 10, 20 or 30 minutes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGCWaAZA_ehadmClEr7CnHqlBdPQl_HjEfMr0mAw7bR_CvcqPhWGhstXGiUjjMZcOEI_kNEzPKN44gKP4FgQ9VNo4qGJEQOVopyP9uiugLChcCDsaNVLshtoG3meUA6rgS-lfi17bU-fHC/s1600/11424792-1234475763927687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGCWaAZA_ehadmClEr7CnHqlBdPQl_HjEfMr0mAw7bR_CvcqPhWGhstXGiUjjMZcOEI_kNEzPKN44gKP4FgQ9VNo4qGJEQOVopyP9uiugLChcCDsaNVLshtoG3meUA6rgS-lfi17bU-fHC/s320/11424792-1234475763927687.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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We worked out mine looks a bit like a squished </div>
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eyeball, but despite that, it's very effective.</div>
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Good luck unseeing that resemblance though.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.iwantoneofthose.com/accessories/lumie-bodyclock-starter-30-wake-up-light-alarm-clock/11424792.html?affil=thggpsad&switchcurrency=GBP&shippingcountry=GB&&thg_ppc_campaign=71700000039865002&gclid=Cj0KCQjwtr_mBRDeARIsALfBZA53IZGuvMcDI0Gy4c5JjxqF8-W2Z5-JRftXOpzMTlgqRosrXvNByKkaAnViEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
<br />
Some models also have to option to have various sounds at your selected time to wake you up if the light hasn’t already. This was unnecessary for me: as you may have gathered I’m sensitive to changes in ambient light.<br />
<br />
It’s a much calmer way of waking up than most alarms. I’ve always been a light sleeper, and my hearing is very acute now, so traditional alarms make me feel really stressed and frightened on waking. Ain’t nobody got time for that.<br />
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My cube clock also has an alarm, but it’s a more traditional beep. If that doesn’t bother you then it’s much cheaper to go for this option, or something similar.<br />
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<br />
<b>Earplugs</b><br />
<b><br /></b>As my hearing is so amplified now, I also wear earplugs every night. It’s probably not the best thing to do for your ears, but I replace them regularly, and switch out the types every now and then to give my ears something different to react to.<br />
<br />
I would advise that, if you can go without earplugs all night every night, you should do so. My bed is almost directly above our TV and I need them so the gripping sounds of Line of Duty and Antiques Roadshow don’t keep me awake.<br />
<br />
Everyone’s different, so I can’t really tell you which are the best earplugs to go for.<br />
<br />
My personal favourites are the tapered foam ones; the cylindrical foam ones are too wide and hurt my ears after a couple of uses.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6A-NGFjm7BtS6-UfXnPtMD_0sWozRotMPwg6biPX9FM-HQWaDfUycS6926DkyH_1hgXqUZ8OvzKGd3byM4-FhP1JtYwPAD2TL6zXJ_QaAnG4SvaC7TxxN3n967VGb4ogu8iMhZVp8S4v7/s1600/final_5bf89f4d3a4f090013ac5fcf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1100" data-original-width="1280" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6A-NGFjm7BtS6-UfXnPtMD_0sWozRotMPwg6biPX9FM-HQWaDfUycS6926DkyH_1hgXqUZ8OvzKGd3byM4-FhP1JtYwPAD2TL6zXJ_QaAnG4SvaC7TxxN3n967VGb4ogu8iMhZVp8S4v7/s320/final_5bf89f4d3a4f090013ac5fcf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finally that Adobe Photoshop subscription </div>
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is proving itself worth the money.</div>
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I also like the putty style silicone ones when my ear canals need a break. They create more of a seal than relying on being fully inside the ear itself.<br />
<br />
I’d be really interested to know what kind of earplugs you like. (I’m so rock and roll.) If you use them leave a link in the comments and I’ll check them out.<br />
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<br />
<b>Temperature</b><br />
<b><br /></b>An inability to regulate your temperature is a well known symptom of ME/CFS, and it’s a complete nightmare trying to keep comfortable when you’re sleeping. Here’s a list of everything I’ve found to help. Again, any added suggestions always welcomed.<br />
<br />
1 - Duvet/blanket options<br />
I have a summer weight and a winter weight duvet, and whichever one I’m not using is stored under my bed. I also have a single duvet downstairs to use during the day, which I use in conjunction with the others. I never used to bother before I got sick, but now I need the flexibility.<br />
<br />
In summer I use the thin summer weight duvet (3 - 4.5 tog), but unless it's really hot I put the single one over my feet. I find the weight on my feet makes me sleepy, so if you’re struggling with sleep you might want to look into that as an option.<br />
<br />
If it’s really, really hot, I’ll sometimes just use a sheet, but still stick my feet under the single duvet.<br />
In the winter I switch to the winter weight (10.5 - 13.5 tog), but if it’s arse-clenchingly cold then I can add the single on top as an added layer.<br />
<br />
I’m also going to try out a weighted blanket this summer to see if that’s a good option. I definitely find the weight of a proper duvet soporific, so hopefully that will give me the weight without the heat of a full duvet.<br />
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The one I’ve got is perhaps a little too heavy though; it’s a little difficult for me to move. If you’re looking into those I’d bear that in mind and err on the side of caution weight-wise.<br />
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If you suffer from skin sensitivities where a touch or pressure can be painful, then I’d give them a miss. Be similarly cautious if you have serious joint pain; try being piled in blankets first and see if that weight bothers you.<br />
<br />
2 - Fans and heaters<br />
Look into getting a fan for you room, and maybe a heater if you don’t have one.<br />
My wall heater doesn’t really work so I have a little electric one we wheel in when it’s cold. Just be careful of fire hazards.<br />
<br />
For a fan I saved up and got a Dyson one: I’d heard they were the quietest and most energy efficient. I got the heater and fan combined, but honestly I wouldn’t recommend shelling out for that one. The hot air is a bit unpleasant and feels vaguely like been heated by a blow-dryer.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjohr2NNT5YeumdSHdRvEWogDBhuZ0T5Utq0oG8IeXqpqLTFhw41K0jhg2g0lPVcerTcb71u6A_FCdaMdy0cOtPaL-SbEX0O4Bo__ablwAWvfayqJ6k5kKzXDWifCYCyUHfFUjwgd-XukF/s1600/302644-01-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjohr2NNT5YeumdSHdRvEWogDBhuZ0T5Utq0oG8IeXqpqLTFhw41K0jhg2g0lPVcerTcb71u6A_FCdaMdy0cOtPaL-SbEX0O4Bo__ablwAWvfayqJ6k5kKzXDWifCYCyUHfFUjwgd-XukF/s320/302644-01-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My fan/heater is an older version of this one.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7aljaPRapWKpofhY0JUVNGCUJvZt8UboukdVmF7BoFrNKYM7Ji_yYP5imSgXbxKpIBfTwbV5wHCbvbNxp_5YhsymvHgRdr5-yqgPIR3_WLyKjapO6dH27UhnZiNVBTbPIimGMREeFWSRo/s1600/fan-black-nickle-overview-tech-white-05.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1566" data-original-width="1025" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7aljaPRapWKpofhY0JUVNGCUJvZt8UboukdVmF7BoFrNKYM7Ji_yYP5imSgXbxKpIBfTwbV5wHCbvbNxp_5YhsymvHgRdr5-yqgPIR3_WLyKjapO6dH27UhnZiNVBTbPIimGMREeFWSRo/s320/fan-black-nickle-overview-tech-white-05.jpg" width="209" /></a></div>
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I should've just gone for this one and saved myself some cash.</div>
<br />
<br />
The cooling side, however, is excellent, and most Dyson fans come with a remote (handy for saving energy) and/or a timer, so you can leave it on at night for a set time.<br />
<br />
They are still reasonably noisy, but less so that a standard fan, and the air flow is much better.<br />
If you can’t afford something like that, don’t worry. Just get something that blows air in your general direction and doesn’t sound like some kind of racing car engine.<br />
<br />
3 - Air conditioning<br />
If you can afford air conditioning, get it. I am telling you right now it’s worth it. I don’t have it in my room, but my stepdad decided to get it for the conservatory last year (which you may remember was an extremely hot summer).<br />
<br />
Previously our conservatory was basically unusable except in spring and autumn because when David had it built he forgot that things like heating and lighting were a thing that needed to be considered. Oh, David.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp1U3X7KbaZe8Sy2ZKASWqlRXOhCRenYEOSmiywhRYwDFgV4Qda8_zw_7U4nbsbjccyrCtkW_3SXLCCW8uRhp67JAONRx9Nl_Pqr1vjhoXHE5iz9T4tBPd7HGQlqcl_uW57K7Gd3BdmV3f/s1600/picard-facepalm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="503" data-original-width="895" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp1U3X7KbaZe8Sy2ZKASWqlRXOhCRenYEOSmiywhRYwDFgV4Qda8_zw_7U4nbsbjccyrCtkW_3SXLCCW8uRhp67JAONRx9Nl_Pqr1vjhoXHE5iz9T4tBPd7HGQlqcl_uW57K7Gd3BdmV3f/s320/picard-facepalm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/facepalm" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
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In winter it would become a room sized freezer that you had to wear a coat to go into, and in the summer it was a room sized radiator than did an excellent job making sure the rest of the house was hotter than the first circle of hell.<br />
He was convinced to get it after seeing how much of a difference it made to my aunt’s house. And my god. I am so grateful.<br />
<br />
It kept the rest of the house so much cooler than before. It was still roasting upstairs last year, but there was somewhere cool to retreat if really necessary, and it definitely wasn’t as bad as it would’ve been.<br />
Maybe one day I’ll save up enough to have it in my room too.<br />
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I have tried the cheap and cheerful units from Argos before, but to be honest they didn’t really do much. I think for a decent one you’ll be looking at £250 plus. I definitely wouldn’t have fancy wall installed air conditioning if my parents hadn’t got it of their own accord.<br />
<br />
If you can’t afford air conditioning, and I absolutely understand that, then...<br />
<br />
4 - Stick ice in front of your fan.<br />
Told you that fan would come in handy. This cools the air in front of the fan and allows it to circulate the room.<br />
Last year we froze a bottle of water each day and kept in in front of the fan at night. It doesn’t last the whole night but it does help.<br />
<br />
If you’ve got room in your freezer for a 2 litre bottle of ice then go for it; just remember to allow space for the ice to expand when you fill it so it doesn’t split when the ice melts again. Ice packs would probably work, but it’d be more difficult to get them in front of the air flow.<br />
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This is basically what those cheap air conditioners do. You put ice in them and then blow air through it and out into the room. Except it’s cheaper just to freeze a bottle of water and put it in front of your fan.<br />
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5 - Damp flannel by the bed<br />
Keep a dampened flannel in a dish by the bed and wipe yourself down when you feel too hot.<br />
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Focus on your pressure points like wrists and elbows, back of the neck and forehead. I’ve fallen asleep with a damp flannel on my head numerous times. It’s so nice.<br />
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Change it out every day though, because otherwise it goes all musty and gross.<br />
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6 - Cooling Gel pads and Chillows<br />
There are a variety of these around, and they can be really, really good.<br />
I have a Chillow, which is a pad you fill with water and allow to become cool. You can put in inside your pillowcase or on top if you need to move it around. You can even put it in the fridge if you want to.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnODITVSPIkYpEnD8REKSw7hSPSDjAYtlCbbJ5y1Yr8Xv6LZZyQs6RYovmkTV7CfSrZYgp_ypTW-mU9x76dgdry7dyMa9fapVZR3mizduJLgZAc2PJCZGbylxAHjtmVnzvv9LxYyhH4sws/s1600/612wyFw1KeL._SY355_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="355" data-original-width="355" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnODITVSPIkYpEnD8REKSw7hSPSDjAYtlCbbJ5y1Yr8Xv6LZZyQs6RYovmkTV7CfSrZYgp_ypTW-mU9x76dgdry7dyMa9fapVZR3mizduJLgZAc2PJCZGbylxAHjtmVnzvv9LxYyhH4sws/s320/612wyFw1KeL._SY355_.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Chillow-Cooling-Pillow-Relaxing-Restful/dp/B00ULE23XW" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source</span></a></div>
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Some are just gel, some you fill with water. They are all wonderful in hot temperatures. That sweet, sweet cool-pillow feeling.<br />
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7 - Hot water bottle<br />
Ah, my trusty hot water bottle. How I love thee. I know it’s an obvious one but I couldn’t write about temperature control and not give it a brief mention.<br />
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You can also fill hot water bottles with ice, but I would keep a separate one for that purpose if you want to try it. If you use the same one for hot and cold then you risk splitting the rubber, and no one wants a lapful of recently boiled water if your bottle gives out.<br />
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But don’t use these in conjunction with…<br />
<br />
8 - Electric blanket.<br />
If you tend to have all over body pain, or get cold all over, then you might prefer an electric blanket. You can put them under your sheet and heat up your bed before you get in. Some have timers that allow you to go to sleep with them on and have them turn off during the night.<br />
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Never, ever use a hot water bottle when you have an electric blanket on your bed, and be careful about the glass of water beside you. There are horror stories about what happens when water and electric blankets mix, and they are not pretty.<br />
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Now I’ve given you that nightmare fodder, it’s time to move onto looking at anxiety and sleep anxiety!<br />
Tune in tomorrow for our final section: dealing with sleep anxiety.<br />
<br />
H<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part.html" target="_blank">PART ONE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_13.html" target="_blank">PART TWO</a> ~ PART THREE ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_15.html" target="_blank">PART FOUR</a></div>
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<br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-75502236938170202902019-05-13T10:24:00.001+01:002019-05-15T09:47:55.566+01:00ME Symptoms and Tips: Sleep Issues - Part Two<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part.html" target="_blank">PART ONE</a> ~ PART TWO ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_14.html" target="_blank">PART THREE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_15.html" target="_blank">PART FOUR</a></div>
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<br />
Hello again, my lovely loves!<br />
<br />
Let's jump right in with and look at the next steps of getting better sleep. Today we'll be looking at dealing with pain, and the first steps of setting up a good sleep environment.<br />
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<b><u>Dealing with Pain</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>I have created a whole post on dealing with pain, so you may wish to go look at that in more detail if pain is a common insomnia trigger for you. There are a few that are more sleep specific, however, so I’ll discuss them here as well.<br />
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To see the separate post for dealing with pain, <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2018/05/sp-me-symptoms-and-tips-pain-part-one.html" target="_blank">head here.</a><br />
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<b>Keep warm (or Cold)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>By far the most useful thing I’ve found to deal with pain at night is heat. My pain is usually centred in my hips, and sometimes my legs and back, so I basically cover myself in hot water bottles in those areas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKHjud70DXmn9l6e_d99b-9byYkJaNr3ScTFFKr0UpktRqSUQnJZrBmqAvwxqazF1GT8F9O9d356jJ87-YKNtVQGCNwLvaatlQDAdjA9-GP9BLEfKPsnMTt2C1LjtUkED-i-fhyMZu1mE/s1600/This-Cute-Video-Of-A-Girl-In-The-Middle-Of-A-Puppy-Pile-Will-Warm-Your-Heart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="368" data-original-width="700" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibKHjud70DXmn9l6e_d99b-9byYkJaNr3ScTFFKr0UpktRqSUQnJZrBmqAvwxqazF1GT8F9O9d356jJ87-YKNtVQGCNwLvaatlQDAdjA9-GP9BLEfKPsnMTt2C1LjtUkED-i-fhyMZu1mE/s320/This-Cute-Video-Of-A-Girl-In-The-Middle-Of-A-Puppy-Pile-Will-Warm-Your-Heart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Mmm. Like a toasty snuggle pile. </div>
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<a href="https://dailypositiveinfo.com/this-cute-video-of-a-girl-in-the-middle-of-a-puppy-pile-will-warm-your-heart/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Original image source</span></a></div>
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Obviously this becomes difficult to manage in summer, but I do tend to have less pain in summer anyway, presumably due to the warmer temperatures.<br />
Similarly, I try to keep my hips covered and warm throughout the day to prevent the aches setting in before I go to bed.<br />
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Hot water bottles, heat packs, and warm clothes are your best friends.<br />
If cold works better for you then consider ice packs.<b><br /></b><b><br /></b><b>Watch for environmental changes</b><br />
<b><br /></b>See if you also get more pain at certain times of the year. If, like me, you get more pain in winter or when the temperature abruptly drops (ta, Britain), then it’ll mean you’ve got more options for preventing extra pain by doubling up your clothes in your problem areas.<br />
I wear two pairs of leggings pretty much from autumn to spring.<br />
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<b>Medications</b><br />
<b><br /></b>There are many options when it comes to pain medication, and these can sometimes be combined with sleep aids. The best thing is to have a chat with your doctor and work out what the best option is for you.<br />
You doctor will likely ask you how often you suffer from pain, and insomnia. If both are frequent, and likely linked, they may suggest Amytripaline, which is used to help long term arthritic pain, as well as being used for sleep issues. Other options include Diazepam.<br />
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For me, my insomnia and pain is less frequent, so mine gives me Zopiclone (a straight-up sedative), which I use now and then for insomnia, and then I use paracetamol for the pain.<br />
You may have a little bit more difficulty getting sedatives, as these are potentially addictive. However, if you really need them, stand your ground.<br />
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<b>Find the best environment for you</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Getting a comfortable environment to sleep in is imperative if you suffer from chronic pain, especially joint pain. It’s important for sufferers in general, so I’ve given it it’s own section, but definitely read it, because you’ll likely find it useful.<br />
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<b><u>Dealing with Environmental Issues</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>This particular section is about getting rid of all those little niggling issues that make it harder for you to get comfortable. If you’re not comfortable it’s harder to sleep, and that’s why this is linked so closely to pain issues.<br />
<br />
What follows is going to seem like an extremely unnecessary level of detail, but when you’re struggling with sleep, every little helps.<br />
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Optimising your sleep environment can often be a little expensive, but I’ll do my best to give as many options as possible in the hope that you can find the cheapest things that will actually work for you, and to prevent you shelling out for something that’s ultimately useless.<br />
Getting a good sleep environment has been one of the most expensive parts of being ill, but given the improvement I’ve seen since I’ve actually been able to sleep, I’d say it’s been a good investment for me.<br />
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As I said before, don’t feel pressured to try all these things at once. Take the the time to really think about what bothers you when you’re trying to sleep and judge accordingly.<br />
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<br />
<b>A good bed</b><br />
<b><br /></b>If you’re going to invest in one thing for your sleep environment, choose a good mattress. Nothing will make more of a difference to your comfort, and it can really make a difference with pain.<br />
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And the most important thing to remember when buying a mattress? Orthopaedic does not necessarily mean good for pain; it just means firm. And firm does not mean better for you. It depends on your weight, build/gender, what kind of pain you experience, and what position you usually sleep in.<br />
<br />
When my mother went shopping for a new mattress for me, that was the first thing the salesman said to her.<br />
I can’t tell you how glad I was to hear about this. My parents had been gunning for me to have an orthopaedic mattress for a while, but I KNEW that solid surfaces just made my pain worse. I wanted something as soft as I could get away with.<br />
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I know there are studies into orthopaedic mattresses, but frankly, I’m unsure if those studies took different body shapes, or even different genders, into account.<br />
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Look at this way. I am 5’8”, and I have wide shoulders and hips, and a relatively small waist in comparison. I’ll use this basic shape to show my torso.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNp0zO_TCRauamPzHKFIlOc-x0bpzm-QdG2Wt0dHlITsqdp6gwpr8mzGZdsLoCfUI-YKpzcYRch_kvQqKmAZ0jBtqEQXYfyTm4m_cJzSUb2kAIuoff3KilqukawjPAoZxq-xo6NAyHMmpy/s1600/hourglass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNp0zO_TCRauamPzHKFIlOc-x0bpzm-QdG2Wt0dHlITsqdp6gwpr8mzGZdsLoCfUI-YKpzcYRch_kvQqKmAZ0jBtqEQXYfyTm4m_cJzSUb2kAIuoff3KilqukawjPAoZxq-xo6NAyHMmpy/s320/hourglass.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
That weird red line is my spine in this scenario.</div>
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I usually sleep on my side. When I lie on a firm surface, even if I sink into it a little bit, my waist goes down, and my hips and shoulders are forced upwards.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZXXH_2pmFR11ZzpjYPjtfOvorxcmslmq0k1POLbuBpdSkLUMrq1C6g908tYqXcmDH6ba89L3_GaxidEkZFXph88ED3S3tCLKSPpEMlvB44giviorvTK3XvYMehFjfLTNMC2RiSkJABVsG/s1600/hourglass+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="600" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZXXH_2pmFR11ZzpjYPjtfOvorxcmslmq0k1POLbuBpdSkLUMrq1C6g908tYqXcmDH6ba89L3_GaxidEkZFXph88ED3S3tCLKSPpEMlvB44giviorvTK3XvYMehFjfLTNMC2RiSkJABVsG/s320/hourglass+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Mmmm comfy.</div>
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<br />
This puts a lot of pressure on my hips and shoulders and twists my upper back. I end up with pain in NEW areas, as well as pain so intense in my hips that I can’t sleep.<br />
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This was the problem I had with the N:Rem mattress topper, during the <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2016/09/product-review-nrem-sleep-systems.html" target="_blank">product review I took part in.</a><br />
It uses foam that is fairly solid alongside softer pieces that you arrange according to the area you have pain in.<br />
The hip pain arrangement had the softer pieces at the hip, and more solid pieces at the top, but because of my wider hips it forced my shoulders into the solid foam and made them hurt. My shoulders having nowhere to go in turn pushed my hips into the mattress and made those hurt too.<br />
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On a softer mattress my wider points (which are also the heaviest points) sink into the mattress. My waist is a little more supported. I’m not twisted into a weird shape. My pain lessens.<br />
<br />
I can’t tell you exactly what mattress you should be getting, but I can tell you the three general rules the wonderful salesman told us.<br />
<br />
1 - Your weight/height<br />
Generally speaking, the heavier you are, the more firm a mattress you’ll need. Men typically have firmer mattresses for this reason - they naturally sink into them more. I would say, however, I have a soft mattress, and I’m probably around 10.5 stone. (I think... I don’t really weigh myself to be honest.)<br />
<br />
Taller people will tend to have their weight more evenly distributed across the mattress (unless you sleep curled in a foetal position) and so will probably be able to get away with a softer mattress than they might otherwise do.<br />
<br />
2 - Your build/gender<br />
Another reason why men are traditionally more comfortable with firmer mattresses is that they don’t tend to have bodies that are as curvy. This obviously is a sweeping generalisation, and I suspect is not very helpful.<br />
Instead, look at these shapes.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAhdE5GrpII2C4TtwwmBLjzZRzCTnNix0JBLQW4RbTyGygs0hGIkJn1JkJa_L-SoFaYhyphenhyphen3xtIE8VadMyFq-dL13wuS0WsqX9tOiKuuPFGr77ykZpD8kNS93DymFhC3AiyUQJ_kifUng2o6/s1600/Different-Body-Shapes-Of-Women.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="167" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAhdE5GrpII2C4TtwwmBLjzZRzCTnNix0JBLQW4RbTyGygs0hGIkJn1JkJa_L-SoFaYhyphenhyphen3xtIE8VadMyFq-dL13wuS0WsqX9tOiKuuPFGr77ykZpD8kNS93DymFhC3AiyUQJ_kifUng2o6/s320/Different-Body-Shapes-Of-Women.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/different-body-shapes-of-women/#gref" target="_blank">Image Source</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXVRVu-NNDnDEyrosYi7EkfflUO3fY6a8scV7nYh5rppSyx3QO_k7R1qmzf2r-2zWpdSL7k2A5qnesvrBTLfBPL74AoMbticeUHCsPxThjEo45ylxnsNg8ZfRrcyAp2XH0UvP-1f6D3Jf/s1600/human-body-shapes-male-figures-types-set-vector-21611950.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="862" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdXVRVu-NNDnDEyrosYi7EkfflUO3fY6a8scV7nYh5rppSyx3QO_k7R1qmzf2r-2zWpdSL7k2A5qnesvrBTLfBPL74AoMbticeUHCsPxThjEo45ylxnsNg8ZfRrcyAp2XH0UvP-1f6D3Jf/s320/human-body-shapes-male-figures-types-set-vector-21611950.jpg" width="255" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.vectorstock.com/royalty-free-vectors/male-body-types-silhouettes-vectors" target="_blank">Image source</a></span></div>
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Actually look at your body. Are your hips wider than you shoulders, the same, or smaller. Is your waist significantly smaller than your hips/shoulders.<br />
<br />
Pick the shape that most resembles your body, and imagine it on its side. You can even make your own shape if you want.<br />
Where are the pressure points? Do those match up with where your pain is? If they do then maybe you need to rethink your mattress.<br />
<br />
If you sleep on your back or front it still makes sense. Women with larger chests who sleep on their fronts will need a softer mattress, because a firm one will provide no give in the bust area and force their backs to arch, putting more pressure on those muscles and joints.<br />
<br />
On your back, if your spine is very arched then a firm mattress will potentially leave it unsupported and leave those muscles in your back tense. (My mum has this issue.) You may want to add support with a small pillow.<br />
<br />
3 - Number of occupants<br />
If there’s more than one person using the mattress this will effect the weight on the mattress, and usually mean that a mattress has to be a little firmer to accommodate for it.<br />
<br />
It means there’s also some compromise needed on what each user finds most comfortable. I’ve got to say, us singles actually have an advantage when it comes to picking a sleep environment, because it doesn’t have to suit more than one person.<br />
<br />
If a firmer mattress is needed for weight reasons, then you can soften it by using one or more mattress toppers. You may end up with a princess and the pea situation, but it’s worth it if you’re comfortable.<br />
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Finding a fitted sheet may pose a problem...</div>
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I would argue that the person with the worse pain should probably have the last say, however. People who aren’t in pain or chronically ill can adapt much more easily to a different sleeping situation than those that are.<br />
This is one area where something like the N:Rem sleep system would have the advantage, because different sides of the bed can be set up with different levels of firmness, so both occupants are comfortable.<br />
<br />
You’ll also need to think about whether to go for a sprung mattress, a foam mattress or a mix. Mine is a <a href="https://www.highgrovebeds.co.uk/" target="_blank">Highgrove Beds </a>Vicuña natural pocket spring mattress.<br />
I always get the impression from people with foam mattresses that it’s not particularly easy to move around on them, so for a jifflebum like me, a sprung mattress is better.<br />
<br />
I don’t really know enough about mattresses to break down the pros and cons of these options, but a decent sales assistant at a show room should be able to help, even if you ask over the phone or via email.<br />
<br />
It can be difficult to get to a show room to test mattresses, but a trusted friend or family member can always go for you as long as you’re clear with what you want. My mum chose my mattress and it’s great.<br />
The very, very nice salesman also allowed us to have it delivered and let me lie on it before the plastic was taken off, on the basis we could still return it if it wasn’t suitable.<br />
I suspect this is unusual, but if you’re housebound like me, maybe it’s worth discussing options with your local showroom.<br />
<br />
Some mattresses and toppers also offer trial periods and money-back guarantees, so it’s worth keeping an eye out for those if you’re not able to go try things yourself.<br />
<br />
Even though financing options are often available for larger purchases, it may not be possible for you to buy a new mattress.<br />
If you need a softer surface, but can’t afford a new mattress you can always look into mattress toppers. These make a surprising amount of difference, and can even be layered to create even more softness.<br />
They usually come in foam, synthetic padding and feather options and come in various thicknesses, and a variety of prices to match.<br />
<br />
I have one on my soft mattress; partially because I had it left over from my old mattress and we didn’t want to waste it, and partially because the softer my bed is the happier I am. I essentially want to sleep in a giant cloud-nest.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Any quip I could write could never beat the text of the <a href="https://www.rrrather.com/view/108896" target="_blank">Image source </a></span></div>
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<b>Pillows</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Pillows are also an important factor in both comfort and pain management. It took me a long time to find something that didn’t give me neck ache, but now I use a sculpted memory foam pillow, that supports my neck. You can find it online, <a href="https://www.dunelm.com/product/dorma-tencel-blend-memory-foam-contour-pillow-1000040577?searchTerm=dorma%20foam%20pillow" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
My step-dad, David, is actually the person who got me on to this. He got one a while back and swore it was brilliant. I was reluctant as it was described as firm (as I’ve mentioned, I like soft things) but he lent his to me for a couple of nights because my super squishy ones were giving me neck ache. After using his I immediately bought one for myself.<br />
<br />
It’s very difficult to tell you what’s going to work for you, but it’s a little easier to experiment with pillows than mattress, given that they’re generally much cheaper.<br />
<br />
I tend to prefer synthetic fibre and foam pillows to feather because, unless you get a very high quality pillow, the feathers can poke through the fabric and you get jabbed by the pointy feather quills when you least expect it.<br />
<br />
It’s the ultimate betrayal. There you are, minding your own business and expecting squishy goodness, and then tiny duck needles stab you in the face and neck when your guard is down. No, ta.<br />
(Feathers can also be an allergen or asthma issue, and make my acne worse. Yaaaaay.)<br />
<br />
In addition to my foam head pillows, I also have synthetic fibre pillows for between my knees and to hug. I wasn’t joking about cloud-nest.<br />
<br />
Putting a pillow between your knees can help take further pressure off your hips and prevent your knees rubbing together. I don’t know if I just have extra bony knees, but it tends to hurt if I don’t use a pillow. I keep my ankles apart, or cushioned by a duvet for the same reason.<br />
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Hugging a pillow does the same thing for your shoulders, and tends to open up your chest a bit more. Sometimes my ME makes me short of breath, and being of the busty persuasion can mean the added weight exacerbates this issue.<br />
When my upper arm is supported by a pillow I find it much easier to take deeper, slower breaths, and it stops my shoulders and back muscles being pulled around.<br />
<br />
My knee pillows are square and from a brand called Rectella. (That’s quite the name.) I got them cheap on eBay and they are AMAZING.<br />
My arm ones are just normal synthetic rectangle pillows.<br />
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There’s also a pillow under the foot of my mattress to bump this up ever so slightly. I didn’t know it was there for ages, Mum snuck it there, but she swears blind I’ve slept better since it was there, so… worth a try?<br />
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<br />
<b>Sheets</b><br />
<br />
Make sure you have non-scratchy sheets, if you can avoid it. ME can make your skin more sensitive, and it's going to be difficult to relax if you're laying on the equivalent of a bed of straw.<br />
Nice quality cotton sheets are fairly easy to come by, and have become more affordable in recent years, but if that's still too scratchy try jersey.<br />
For the winter you can even get brushed cotton, which is a bit like falling asleep wrapped in giant fuzzy pyjamas.<br />
<br />
If you can't afford new sheets, then there are unscented, natural fabric softeners available from places like <a href="https://www.biggreensmile.com/departments/laundry.aspx?deptid=LAUNDRY&producttype=Fabric+softeners" target="_blank">Big Green Smile</a> or <a href="https://www.ethicalsuperstore.com/category/cleaning-and-household/laundry/fabric-conditioner/" target="_blank">Ethical Superstore</a>. The eco-friendly options usually cater well to people with skin and scent sensitivities.<br />
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You can also get a debobbler or pilling remover, that will take any uncomfortable pilling from your sheets and make them softer again. You can get manual combs, but for ease of use and saving your energy I'd recommend an electric one.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/CLOTHES-BOBBLE-REMOVER-SHAVER-DEBOBBLER/dp/B00HQFQN94" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
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Part three will come tomorrow where we'll look further at getting a good sleep environment.<br />
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H<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part.html" target="_blank">PART ONE</a> ~ PART TWO ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_14.html" target="_blank">PART THREE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_15.html" target="_blank">PART FOUR</a></div>
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Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6659981920998562195.post-69030669732104668522019-05-12T09:48:00.001+01:002019-05-15T09:48:21.016+01:00ME Symptoms and Tips: Sleep Issues - Part One<div style="text-align: center;">
PART ONE ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_13.html" target="_blank">PART TWO</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_14.html" target="_blank">PART THREE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_15.html" target="_blank">PART FOUR</a></div>
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<br />
Hello my lovely loves,<br />
<br />
I’m afraid I’ve been putting off this post for a while now, just because I knew it would be something of a monster. However, I’ve decided to finally bite the bullet and actually sit down and write it, so today we’ll be looking at ways to help you catch those z’s. This will be split over several posts.<br />
<br />
This is something that isn’t just applicable to ME/CFS patients, or the chronically ill, so hopefully everyone can find something in here that might help them. As always, if you have anything you’ve found that really works, pop it in the comments on this post and share the love.<br />
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Please don’t feel pressured to try all of these tips at once, or at all. Definitely don’t feel pressured to spend lots of money buying or replacing items. While there are some options that can help that do cost money, finding yourself out of pocket is probably going to make it more difficult for you to sleep, not easier.<br />
Take your time to really consider what might help, and look into options before splurging on something that turns out to be unnecessary.<br />
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To sufferers and non-sufferers alike: sleep will not cure ME/CFS. It just won’t. So if someone has told you that, then stick it in the Nope pile with kale and yoga.<br />
Sleep problems are a symptom not a cause, but, even though improving sleep won’t take ME away, it’s important to try and get energy from as many sources as possible; your body isn’t making it as well as it should anymore.<br />
<br />
In terms of ME, sleep problems can manifest in a variety of ways; insomnia, anxiety/sleep anxiety, or unrefreshing sleep are some of the most common.<br />
<br />
I think the most important thing to do, regardless of your health, is to try and work out exactly what type of sleep problem you’re having. It sounds kind of obvious, but when you’re tired and frustrated you’re not likely to be analysing what it is that’s setting you off.<br />
The main groups of sleep problems I’ve encountered are these; overstimulation (resulting in tired but wired insomnia), pain, problems with the sleep environment (which can exacerbate other sleep issues) and anxiety, especially about sleep itself.<br />
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I’m going to try and tackle these individually, but they do all intertwine, so you may need to put your experimentation hat on to find out what combination really works for you.<br />
To that effect…<br />
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<b><u>Keep a Sleep Diary</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>It may be helpful to keep a basic sleep diary. It doesn’t need to be anything too in depth, just a general overview of things you did that day, and if you had trouble sleeping.<br />
<br />
You can also write down the number of hours you slept, or other issues, but if you get anxious about sleep issues, then maybe keep it more general because specifics are more liable to worry you.<br />
I used to write down how many hours I slept a night but I found that number to be a stressor if it dipped too low for too long, which in turn made me less likely to sleep.<br />
<br />
From here you can look for patterns in your sleep issues. Is the problem going to sleep, or staying asleep? Is there something you do on certain days that means you’re less likely to get a good night’s sleep. Are you tired but wired? Do you get anxious about sleeping? Were you in pain? Did you have another stress dream about trying to wait tables during a zombie apocalypse?<br />
All of this information is helpful to work out what tools might help you.<br />
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<b><u>Be Honest</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>I’ve said this is previous posts, but there’s a great temptation to try and ignore things that might be worth a shot if they’re not very palatable.<br />
I’m definitely guilty of this too, so it’s not a criticism, but if you want to change things then you’re going to have to be honest with yourself (and others) about things that need to change.<br />
Then you can have a moan or a stomp and get it sorted.<br />
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<b><u>Dealing with Overstimulation</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>Being tired-but-wired is such a weird feeling. You’re so, so exhausted, but somehow still wide awake, and no amount of lying down with your eyes closed seems to make a difference.<br />
<br />
This feeling can be linked with sleep anxiety if you’re lying there worrying, especially if you’re worrying about not sleeping, but in my experience overstimulation feels a little less <i>fraught</i> than sleep anxiety. It’s more that you’re exhausted but your brain has turned into an overactive toddler who wants to play <i>now</i>.<br />
<br />
Judging by the comment threads on ME insomnia posts, feeling tired-but-wired is the most common reason sufferers are unable to sleep. I’m afraid the most helpful things I’ve found to deal with this aren’t going to be very popular.<br />
<br />
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<b>Rest More</b><br />
<b><br /></b>If you’ve become tired but wired, one of the best things to help prevent it in the future is to rest more throughout the day. I’ve talked about resting in a previous post if you want to know more on how to go about it.<br />
You’ve essentially managed to reach some bizarre state of being where you’re too tired to sleep, so avoiding that involves resting more throughout the day before settling down.<br />
It seems counter-productive to rest to be able to sleep, but it’s definitely helped me.<br />
<br />
There’s a lot of talk about how you shouldn’t sleep during the day to keep to your natural circadian rhythms, and while I do think that is a good idea, sometimes it’s not always possible.<br />
Try not to sleep after 4pm or more than 40 minutes during the day to avoid the worst effects napping might have on your nights sleep. It will likely happen occasionally, so don't beat yourself up if it does, but it's something to aim towards.<br />
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<b>Limit Activities</b><br />
<b><br /></b>As well as resting more you can try to limit the number or type of activities you do throughout the day, or when those activities occur.<br />
For example, I don’t watch TV programmes or films a. in one go, b. if they’re really upsetting, stressful or scary, or c. in the evening when I won’t have time to process them before bed.<br />
Then I'm limiting the amount of activity, the type of activity, and the time of it, and it’s much less likely to leave me overstimulated.<br />
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Can't get over stimulated if you're not stimulated.</div>
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There has to be a certain amount of flexibility with this, for both practicality and your own sanity, but it’s definitely something worth trying if you’re struggling to sleep. Once you're getting more sleep on a regular basis you can afford to occasionally relax those rules.<br />
For more on how I enjoy media whilst having ME, head <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2017/09/me-symptoms-tips-enjoying-media-content.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<b>Wind down</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Give yourself some time during the evening where your focus and activities are more centred around relaxation. This will signal to your body and mind that it’s time to get ready for bed, and the lighter more relaxing activities will prevent your mind becoming overstimulated just before bed.<br />
I put all the craft projects away and read on my phone, or watch ASMR videos.<br />
<br />
If you can already feel that you've become overstimulated throughout the day, use this time to do a guided meditation to try and calm down.<br />
I use one from the <a href="https://www.theoptimumhealthclinic.com/" target="_blank">Optimum Health Clinic</a> when I'm feeling a bit frayed around the edges that talks about a bubble of protection.<br />
You imagine being inside a bubble, push all the worries and buzzy thoughts outside the bubble and take in calming feelings.<br />
Although my version is from the OHC through access to their site, it's a fairly common premise, so it's possible to find similar ones elsewhere. If I find a good one, I'll link it here. If you know of one, then pop it in the comments.<br />
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I also find certain ASMR videos useful if I'm already feeling overstimulated.<br />
ASMR stands for Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response, and is a phenomenon where some people find certain sounds or visuals as "triggers" for a tingly or relaxing feeling in the body and mind.<br />
ASMR videos usually involve people doing certain actions - talking softly or whispering, brushing hair, even pretending to do your makeup - to trigger that response in viewers and help them relax. There's a theory that it's a similar feeling to babies being cared for by their parents when they're very young.<br />
I stumbled into ASMR one day when I was looking for a makeup tutorial on how to mimic Phryne Fisher from Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries for a costume I was working on. The best one I found just happened to be a whispered ASMR one, with occasional finger tapping on the various products. Afterwards, I felt really, really calm.<br />
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The costume turned out pretty well too!</div>
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I'll admit, some ASMR videos can be a bit creepy, but if you find a good ASMRtist then it's great, and anything to do with having my hair brushed or cut is bound to make me limper than a wet noodle.<br />
Yesterday, I watched one involving having my virtual beard groomed which was surprisingly effective.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://mymodernmet.com/world-beard-and-moustache-competition-2017/" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
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<b>Be aware of blue light</b><br />
<b><br /></b>Chances are, everyone reading this has already been told to avoid screens for an hour before bedtime. For some people that works, and that’s fine. It’s definitely worth a try.<br />
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However, for me it has made no difference. I was told I should read a physical book before bed, not on a screen, but that actually makes it harder for me to sleep. I find physical books harder to put down, and reading one is more tiring for me than reading on my phone.<br />
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I have altered my phone so it lowers the amount of blue light it emits after 8pm; there’s a setting called Night Shift on iPhones and iOS devices that allow you to do this.<br />
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One greater concession I have made is turning my phone off at night. I have a separate alarm to keep my awake hours stable, so I don’t need it for that. I’d be completely useless in an emergency, and we have a landline anyway.<br />
If it’s on at night the only thing it will do is use power and tempt me to look at it instead of sleeping.<br />
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Turning your phone off at night is something I’d really recommend; it’s a brilliant signal to your mind that it’s time to go to sleep.<br />
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<b>Keep area calm</b><br />
<b><br /></b>My final piece of advice is to try and keep your sleeping environment visually calm. This doesn’t bother everybody, but I find it harder to relax when things are messy or there are lots of things in my eyeline.<br />
It seems to be a mix of overstimulation from the visual stimuli and anxiety from knowing things are messy or cluttered.<br />
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Most sufferers agree supermarkets are really difficult to cope with because they’re noisy, brightly lit, and there’s so much stuff for you to try and take in. What you’re basically trying to do is create the opposite of that: quiet, gently lit, and have everything as calm to the eye as possible.<br />
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Having posters and knickknacks in a limited amount can cheer you up and make you feel happy, but too many mixed with daily detritus like cables and used cups can leave your brain scrambling to process.<br />
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It can also help to move things out of the room that are heavily associated with waking activities (if you can). I moved my old computer screen to my stepdad’s office, because I associated it with working and being busy; it just didn’t give off the vibe I wanted my bedroom to have. It’s a lot easier to relax in my room now.<br />
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I realise that the amount you can do this will depend on your living circumstances and your energy levels, but even the smallest changes can make a big different. If all else fails, put messy things in piles, and cover them with a cloth to keep it visually calmer.<br />
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That's all for today; tomorrow we'll look at dealing with pain and the start of getting a great sleeping environment.<br />
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H<br />
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PART ONE ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_13.html" target="_blank">PART TWO</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_14.html" target="_blank">PART THREE</a> ~ <a href="https://superpooped.blogspot.com/2019/05/me-symptoms-and-tips-sleep-issues-part_15.html" target="_blank">PART FOUR</a></div>
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Hannah Radenkovahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17182949623983124195noreply@blogger.com2