SEX & LIFE

How to Get Out There and Meet People When You’re Feeling Isolated

How to Get Out There and Meet People When You’re Feeling Isolated

Feeling isolated is never nice, and finding ways to dig yourself out of those feelings and those situations can be even tougher. But it can be done. If you want to meet new people, you simply have to find ways of putting yourself in new situations. That applies whether you’re looking for a new romantic relationship or just new friends to hang out with at the weekends.

 

Of course, you’ll have to overcome the anxiety of meeting people, but many of the ideas we’re going to talk about below allow you to meet people in a more organic way. It doesn’t have to be about meeting new people; it can happen naturally via other means. So read on to find out plenty more about the things you can do to meet new people when you’re feeling isolated.

 

Build Up to Meeting People First

 

If you are looking to date people, you should build up to the process of meeting them gradually because this can make it easier on you. With online dating, this is easier than it’s ever been. Or you can make use of phone chat in your area to meet people. It’s up to you how you go about doing this, but just make sure that it’s safe and that you’re comfortable to meet up before you go ahead and do so.

 

Take an Evening Class

 

Evening classes offer you the perfect way to meet people, and you’ll learn something useful at the same time. Perhaps you’ve been meaning to learn how to cook or how to speak a new language. That’s something that you can do by taking evening classes, and there’ll be plenty of people around you are in exactly the same situation too, so you won’t have any problems at all meeting new people.

 

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Find a Hobby and Meet People Through It

 

When you have a hobby that you spend plenty of your time on, you will probably meet new people. So all you need to do is find the hobby that’s going to work for you and that’ll allow you to meet new people on a pretty regular basis. It could be dancing, ice skating or painting. It’s entirely up to you, just make sure it involves being around new people. It’s easier than you think.

 

Don’t Say No When Your Friends Want You to Go Out With Them

 

When you’re feeling isolated, it’s easy to ignore the fact that you do have friends out there who want to spend time with you. Even if they’re not offering the type of companionship you’re looking for right now, it still helps to spend time with them and to get out there in order to meet new people. So when they ask you to go out, you should say yes and embrace the opportunity to put yourself in social situations.

 

Attend Singles Events

 

Singles events are ideal for anyone looking to meet potential romantic partners. These events can be daunting for many people, but they really don’t have to be. When you actually attend them, you quickly realise that everyone is as daunted as you, and you quickly get into the flow of things very easily. You will meet all sorts of people, and they could turn out to be future friends or more.

 

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Get to Know Colleagues Outside of Work

 

This might sound like an obvious one but many people are still hesitant to take their workplace friendships outside of the office. But you can actually build very strong relationships with colleagues if you get to know them better outside of work. There’s so much more to people than what you see of them at work, and you’ll learn that very quickly if you do spend time with them out of the office.

 

Don’t Stress Over It

 

Finally, you should try not to get stressed out over all this so much. When you feel like you need to meet new people, you put pressure on yourself and that’s simply not necessary. If you take a more organic approach to all this and stop putting so much pressure on yourself, you’ll achieve a lot more than you expect.

 

It can often feel really difficult to meet new people, but you should remember that there are plenty of people out there who are feeling exactly the same way as you, and they just want to meet people too, so this doesn’t need to be a daunting thing for you. It’s a lot easier than you imagine.

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.

BEAUTY

How to “Lift” Your Face with Makeup

How to “Lift” Your Face with Makeup

 

One of the most frustrating things about getting older is how your skin sags and facial features droop due to the loss of collagen and the pull of gravity. Apart from these, fine lines and wrinkles contribute to a more tired appearance. Lastly, puffiness and darkness, especially around the eyes, complete the aging setback.

 

Because of these, applying makeup can prove to be quite tricky.

 

How do you prevent your foundation from settling into the enlarged pores and the fine lines around your face? Likewise, how do you prevent colour from emphasising the downward direction of your features?

 

Although makeup can be a problem for aging skin, it is also the solution. The right products and techniques can instantly give the face a tighter and more lifted appearance. Therefore, if your makeup application process has ceased to enhance your features because of your more mature skin, learn the professionals’ “facelift with makeup” secrets. Here are some of them:

 

1. Prep the skin with a silicone-based primer

Silicone not only makes makeup application easier because it creates a velvety soft canvas, but it also fills in pores and fine lines.

 

But silicone-based primers are not created the same. Choose a formulation for more mature skin such as Lancome’s La Base Pro Perfecting Makeup Primer and Bobbi Brown’s Vitamin Enriched Face.

 

It is worth noting that the right primer also provides added hydration to the skin and ensures the lovely longevity of the other products used on the face.

 

2. Apply a light formula concealer that has a brightening effect

This type of concealer does not cake up and easily settle into fine lines. Plus, certain formulations provide a cooling effect to help diminish the appearance of puffy eyes.

 

Just dab it with your ring finger to spread it evenly across the undereye area and to blur the edges. Do the same for other parts of the face where there are some broken capillaries, redness, and lines such as the sides of the nose and the mouth.

 

3. Use a foundation for your skin type and apply with a wet sponge

A wet makeup sponge is best to use if you want a poreless finish. Also, it will allow you to build up your foundation (as necessary) so much better. But when you build up to pack on coverage, do so slowly and pinpoint the areas that need it. It is always better to use less foundation on mature skin.

 

If your foundation still looks a bit thick, ditch the makeup sponge and use your clean middle or ring finger to sheer out the product and create a more natural skin-like finish.

 

A professional makeup artist for fashion magazines also advises bringing the foundation down to the neck. The uniformity of colour creates the illusion of tighter and younger-looking skin.

 

4. Draw a vertical line using a concealer from the forehead down to the outer edges of your eyebrows, eyes and jaw

 

 

Restricting your face products within the outer edge section of your face will create the optical illusion of a lifted face. No more blush on the apples of the cheeks – keep it to the sides and much higher on your cheekbones.

 

As for the highlighter, it is best to apply right above the cheekbones – preferably, from the outer corner of your eyes to the temples.

For the contour, brushing it lightly above the curve of the hollows of your cheeks and up to the top part of your ears can outwork the appearance of sagging lower cheeks and jaws.

 

If you want to make thinning hair or receding hairline less obvious with contour, use Kevyn Aucoin’s tip of applying bronzer a little heavier on the temples and going lighter as you reach your hairline. Follow the shape of a tilted triangle and you automatically get that lift and look of a “younger forehead.”

 

5. Lift hooded eyes by sweeping and blending contour shadow much higher

The trick most pros use to lift hooded eyes is by extending the outer V of the eyes with matte neutral eyeshadow (usually brown). Soften that shadow up by brushing the colour in a wiper motion and bringing the colour higher up the lid reaching the brow bone, and extending it to the end of the brow.

 

Another option is to use a complementing yet lighter eyeshadow hue to the contour colour and create a gradient effect that makes the eyes look more open.

 

Don’t forget to highlight underneath the eyebrow to clean up the eye makeup and accentuate the arch and height of the brows.

 

 

Look young with colour

Makeup truly is that transformative.

So, if you are not keen on getting some invasive procedure done just to treat the signs of ageing, turn to makeup. Proper application and the right products are all you need to restore a lovely and youthful appearance.

 

What’s more, makeup is not only more affordable, it is a pain-free solution as well.

 

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.

AUTHOR BIO

Toni Malt is the Middle East’s leading international editorial makeup artist and the woman behind the highly anticipated Toni Malt Makeup Academy in the heart of Dubai, now training the next generation of key makeup artists. From minimalistic looks to freestyle artistic creations, Toni’s creative work has been published in top international fashion magazines around the world including VOGUE, ELLE, L’Officiel, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Grazia and Cosmopolitan.

 

SEX & LIFE

Prepping for the Biggest Destinations

Prepping for the Biggest Destinations

Travelling to another country is probably one of the most exciting experiences a person can have. But at the same time, preparing for the trip can be such an overwhelming process… I know how much getting the right tips for your destination can be tricky and so today, I would like to share one of my favorite sources with you. The guys at Insidr have spent a lot of time gathering the best tips for the biggest destinations in Europe like Paris, Madrid, Venice, and London.

I made a small selection of their best articles on some of my favourite destinations, but you should definitely check their whole website out! You’ll see that they not only suggest travel itineraries like 2 days in Amsterdam, they also cover talk about very specific topics like finding gluten free restaurants in Paris!

Known for being the city of lights, of great food, and sometimes, even romance, Paris is perhaps on everybody’s list of dream destinations. But while a lot of people dream about their trip, most of them forget about the practicalities when traveling to a foreign country, with a different language and environment no less. At Insidr, I came across these interesting articles that have answered so many of my own questions! For example, honest tips about the public transport in Paris or how to get to Paris from the airport (Orly / CDG), and even going so far as writing up a guide to getting your own Navigo Pass. I particularly found the list of common scams to avoid to be really eye-opening! They also help with coming up with interesting things to do on Sundays in Paris and when traveling to Paris with kids!

A lot of you know how much I love hunting down the best cafes, restaurants, and the latest food trends. It’s really no secret that I’m a big foodie. So when I read the articles Insidr published about the best macarons, creperies and croissants in Paris, I nearly booked myself a flight! I also loved how they put out a list of  Paris’ coolest hidden cocktail bars, best outdoor food markets, and even where to eat gluten free food because those are the kinds of places only locals would know about. It was through them as well that I found out about how great Galeries Lafayette’s gourmet selections are and that they actually have cooking classes! I used to think it was just a place for shopping luxury goods!

No matter how many times you’ve been to Paris, there’s always something new to discover or something old to come back for. They write a lot about the places to see in Paris and about the must-do things there! For example, they published an article that helps travelers decide on the perfect river or canal cruise in the city! And if walking is more up your alley, their article on the most beautiful bridges in Paris is really interesting, too!

To me, France is probably one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Of course nothing compares to Paris but the country is even more beautiful beyond the capital. And I’m not just talking about taking a day trip to Versailles. With a perfect mix of nature, heritage, culinary delights, and culture, I could never recommend you enough to experience what the other towns have to offer. I think the articles at Insidr are the perfect guide to these hidden treasures! For those who are into history, you cannot miss the D-Day Beaches as well as the Mont Saint Michel area in the northern part of the country. And while you’re in the area, don’t forget to hit some of France’s quaint and charming towns like Dinan, Cancale, Bayeux, Etretat, Honfleur, Deauville and Saint Malo. And don’t leave Paris before visiting Giverny to marvel at Monet’s house and garden.

Insidr recently released their new detailed recommendations and tips on Venice, the gem of Northern Italy. You’ll find a lot of detailed and updated information on several famous sights, including Piazza San Marco, Grand Canal, or Lido. The basics are covered as well, with what to eat, where to stay, and what to do while visiting beautiful Venice. Detailed transportation info (including canal navigation!) is also included.

If you haven’t been to London, the only thing I can tell you is to go! And If you’ve already been before – go again! The Insidr articles I read about London made me realize how it is such a special city with infinite things to do! I love how they prepared guides and recommendations on London’s different neighborhoods like Westminster, Camden, Shoreditch, Notting Hill, things to do near London Bridge, Covent Garden and Greenwich.

They didn’t leave the important practical stuff out either! You’ll save a ton of money on Uber or taxi rides after reading their guide to public transportation in the city and how to get to and from the local airports.

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.

SEX & LIFE

3 Ways to Save a Life

3 Ways to Save a Life

Image Credit: Pexels

 

Suicide is now being treated as an epidemic. With so many people ending their lives prematurely across the USA, it is becoming more and more important that everyone is aware of the signs and symptoms of those having suicidal thoughts so we can save as many lives as possible.

 

The reality is that if we can all be more aware of our friends and family, we might be able to stop this epidemic in its tracks. No matter what the reason for suicidal thoughts, if we can just get the help our friends need, there is a much better chance that they will go on to live a long, happy and healthy life.

Learning About Mental Health and Suicide

It’s not a cheery subject, granted, but learning about all the most common mental health issues is a good way to get grounded in what the medical horizon looks like. Many people with mental health conditions are perfectly capable of leading normal and fulfilled lives and may be so adept at hiding their problem that you simply never know.

 

Depression and suicidal thoughts definitely fall into this category. Many people who go on to commit suicide never gave a hint to their friends and family what they were feeling beforehand and therefore never gave them a chance to help. This is devastating news for everyone involved and learning to identify symptoms or even just checking in on an emotional level every so often could make a significant difference.

 

Relias Academy’s online suicide prevention courses are ideal for giving you all the information you need and suggesting the actions you might want to take. Just remember that if you are concerned for someone, you might want to approach another of their friends or family for a little support. You don’t have to do this on your own and shouldn’t be expected to either.

Being There

When people say “I’m here for you” it often comes across as empty words. If you know that someone is depressed and needs more help, you might be tempted to say this to them but then wait for them to ask for more help when they need it.

 

Asking for help, no matter what the situation, is really hard. Instead of waiting for someone in need to finally come to you, you should ask them direct questions such as “how can I help” or “would it help if I … “. You don’t have to do everything for them, but offering more tangible ways of helping is a lot easier for your friend to either accept or reject. Plus, once you have offered a form of help and followed through, they should become more comfortable in asking for other things.

 

Sometimes the best way to be there for someone is to literally be there. Sitting with a friend, even if you settle into a slightly uncomfortable silence is another tangible way of demonstrating your commitment to the friendship. Being a listening ear is usually the best way to give someone time – especially when they may not know how to phrase their problem in other situations.

Ask Your Friends How They Feel

We are all guilty of asking the question, ‘how are you?’ without stopping to really listen to the answer. And, we are all also guilty of automatically responding, ‘I’m ok.’ This needs to change.

 

Asking your friends how they are feeling and really listening properly to their response is a great way to check in and make sure they are alright. We should be sharing more about how we feel and the pressures we are under, rather than brushing them aside and forgetting about how important our mental health is.

 

Talking to friends about their mental health is a difficult conversation to have but, given that this moment could be the chance they get to find help, it is important that you power through – especially if you are concerned. This is a pretty touchy subject so you should be prepared for your friend to respond badly, but don’t give up. It is important that they know that you are offering a safe space for them to talk things through.

 

Though you can’t be expected to be the only thing standing between a person and their darkest thoughts, these three simple approaches show just how easy it is to do something about the suicide epidemic we face. If we can all take the time to really care for our friends and each other, we will all benefit – suicidal thoughts or not.

US National Suicide Prevention Hotline

1800-273-TALK

OUTSIDE THE US… call your National Emergency for help.

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.

ORGANIC HEALTH & HOME

Planning a DIY Project? Consider These Management Tips

Planning a DIY Project? Consider These Management Tips

If you have decided to start your DIY project and beautify your home for yourself and your loved ones, you need to know that there are plenty of things that can go wrong if you don’t plan the processes carefully. You can come across unexpected issues, run out of money and time, or cause more damage than good. If you would like to make your DIY project a success, it is important that you consider the below tips.

Projects Pics Diy Tools

Image via Max Pixel

Create a Timeline

Planning every step of the renovation project will help you identify potential problems and pitfalls, It simply doesn’t make sense to change your heating system if you want to have underfloor heating; you have to create a timeline of your DIY project that prevents you from touching the same area and  job more than once. This will not only help you save time, but also money.

Make Your Budget Fit

The next thing you need to be sure about is that you will have enough money to complete all the work. You might be thinking big, but you don’t really want to get into debt and take on a second mortgage just to make some structural changes. When planning the jobs, consider the cost and time it takes to be completed. Compromise on the changes, but not your materials.

Consider Professional Tools

Image via Pexels

Every DIY job goes better and gets a more professional finish if you invest in trade tools. If you are not likely to use them more than once in a lifetime, you might visit your local DIY store to hire equipment that will help you stick to your budget and your timeline, and avoid getting frustrated with the job.

Outsource Some Tasks

There are some things you shouldn’t DIY in your home, and you have to stay away from touching the work that is best left for professionals. There are some jobs that can easily be completed on a budget, such as laying laminate floors or tiling a bathroom, provided that you have enough time and patience. However, you should not touch electricity or plumbing for your own safety. If you know that you are not a person with an eye for details, you might contact a remodeling company to help you out with some tasks.

Set a Deadline

Home improvements can be frustrating for the entire family. You don’t want to put up with the mess for months, nor does your partner. It might be a good idea to set a clear deadline for each renovation task, and stick to it. This way, you can avoid your project spiraling out of control and taking over your home life for months, even years.

If you are brave enough to start your home renovation project on your own, it is important that you plan every stage and make sure that you can stay passionate about the job at hand. Ask for help and improve your skills, but – most importantly – try to stick to your budget and deadlines.

Tia, and TipsfromTia.com  is trying to keep you looking good and
feeling good, from the inside out. If you’ve got a problem or a tip email me! Be sure to Like and share on Facebook or Follow on Twitter or Instagram.

Everyday Tips from Tia