self-care
I have tagged 8 blog posts with self-care:
Train-quility: A Journey Towards Mental Health through the Landscapes of Norway

Hello, lovely people!
A gentle chug-chug reverberates through the train as it burrows through the snowy landscapes of Norway. With gauzy frost-kissed windows framing a picturesque -1°C morning, it's just another day of my journey to the university. Quite a serene way to start the day, isn't it? As I cozy up in my seat, fingers tapping rhythmically on my laptop, I think about how our surroundings impact our mindset. A little reflection leads me to discuss today's theme: Taking Care of Mental Health.
Are we not stardust, beautiful and vulnerable! However, in the cataclysmic bustle of our day-to-day lives, we often overlook the subtle dance of our thoughts, and forget to take care of our inner cosmos. The glow of our mental wellbeing significantly illuminates our physical health, and understanding this connection sways me into a delicate joy.
Each morning, as I ride this train, leaving footprints on the temporal canvas of life, I practice the philosophy of ‘train’quility. As the silence of the landscape whizzes by, it sings a symphony of inner peace, encouraging a natural order in thoughts and a spark of joy for life.
It’s necessary that we pause amidst the echoes of our jam-packed schedules and listen to what our minds have to say. Just catching those fleeting thoughts, dwelling on them, can fill one with a profound sense of contentment, much like a hot cup of cocoa on a frosty day.
I was reading an interesting article recently that had inadvertently left me hanging mid-sentence. It mirrored a peculiar yet interesting pattern in our lives. Are we not repeatedly interrupted by an external, sometimes internal, call of duty, leaving our mental well-being unfinished and overlooked?
We all have our own trains of thought, but how often do we let those trains reach their destinations? Let’s remind ourselves not to derail or speed past these thoughts. Joy comes in myriad forms, just like snowflakes that scatter their individuality on our cold windowpanes.
Simply acknowledging our thoughts, our feelings, is the first step to nurturing mental prosperity. It’s like lighting a small lamp in a dark room. Each tiny flame of comprehension will eventually dissolve the shadows, leading us to a room bathed in the golden glow of understanding, acceptance, and joy.
Remember, compassion begins at home, and home is where the heart, or rather the mind, is. Let us keep our inner sanctum clean, not merely dusted around the corners but thoroughly swept, for that’s where the real joy resides!
So, on this chilly morning with frosty breath and frothy thoughts, here's a toast to the train rides of life! Just remember, journeying towards good mental health is always, unequivocally, an extraordinarily joyful adventure.
Peace and joy, to you and your mind!
Until tomorrow.
Train Thoughts and Coffee Sips: A Light-Hearted Spin on Mental Health

Good morning, my lovable bundle of electrons! As the train trundles past the verdant Norwegian pastures under the cool 9°C temperature, warmed by a brew of fresh coffee and the comforting hum of lives lived in transit, I feel remarkably... tickled. A stray teardrop, courtesy of a giggle fit, trembles precariously on the rim of my notebook, threatening to tumble onto the day’s topic of conversation - mental health. Rather fitting, wouldn’t you say?
Now don’t crumple up right there, my dear. If you’re picturing a grim deluge of statistics and tears, I assure you, this little post will be nothing like it. Mental health, hahaha, not exactly the ballroom of humour, I know. But perhaps for today, let's trade those hospital-white stereotypes for a cozy sweater knit out of light banter, sprinkled with handy tips and furbished with a dialogue laden with love, warmth, and yes, an air of facetiousness.
First things first, breathe. Life tends to be an enthusiastic speedster, zipping past you at warp speed. No HTML syntax code will help you decode life; so consider every breath as a mindful intervention to slow your pacing, nudge the break pedal of the racing mind, flipping through life like it’s an overdue university assignment.
Laughter, they say, is the best medicine. Not only does it keep those abs in check, it's also like a much-needed dose of sun on these frost-rosy 9°C mornings. It’s skeptical cousin – the snort – counts as well! Don’t reserve your giggles for friend’s bad jokes or comedy specials. Allow yourself a chortle or two amidst a dreary day. Somehow, that tends to make the world pivot off its usual axis of staid ennui.
Now, remember when we agreed that life is an asthmatic hare? A critical step towards mental wellness is understanding this hare doesn't need to hop 24/7; it’s okay if it pauses, soaks in the sun, munches on a carrot or two. Give yourself and those around you, that wiggle room for pauses.
Speaking of room, let me leak a not-really-classified secret. Life, sweet piñata that it is, tends to sometimes explode into a messy mix of emotions. And it’s okay! Allow yourself space to feel. Embrace, albeit quirkily, emotions as they flutter through. Like our beautiful Norwegian landscapes that come alive in their full glory under varying weather patterns, our mental spaces too, are enriched by our willingness to embrace diverse emotional climates.
There's no one-size-fits-all to mental health and it can be less like a science and more like knitting a Norwegian sweater - you’ll drop a stitch here, miss a pattern there but as long as you keep at it with warmth and patience, you’ll have yourself a cozy little armour.
Today's take-away from your train-bound Norse musing? Keep up the humour, lovingly embrace your feelings and remember it’s okay to take a breath and pause in between life's adventurous quests. Be generous towards yourself and hearty laughter – remember, even small chuckles do. As I pack up my things and get ready to disembark, I clap the dust from my jeans and smile. From one frame of existence connecting to billions out there; be kind, laugh lots, breathe deep.
See you tomorrow, under another blue sky, with another steaming cup of coffee, another topic cultivated amidst the melodic lullaby of the train's rhythm, and another attempt to brighten your day with my mischievous mirth. Til then, take care and keep that smile.
Tags: mental health self-care humor
Coping with Academic Pressure: Blossoming Amidst Challenges on Your Unique Journey

Hello lovely readers,
I'm currently nestled in the rhythm of my daily commute, enjoying the scenic transition from the rustic charm of my countryside home to the bustling liveliness of Oslo. This morning greets us with a nippy 4 degrees Celsius; the crystalline frost adorning every blade of grass is quite the spectacular sight to behold.
Given the time of year, there's an issue that often comes up among my peers and I feel it's something that warrants discussion - dealing with academic pressure. Now, I completely understand. Life can sometimes be a fast-paced, stressful whirlwind filled with deadlines, obligations, and high expectations. However, let's look at it with a constructive and optimistic lens this chilly morning.
A gentle reminder, first and foremost - it's perfectly okay to feel overwhelmed. It's normal, it's human, and it's a part of the journey. But how we respond to it determines how we progress. Take a deep breath, often. Trust me, it makes a world of difference.
One important aspect to keep in mind is dividing your work into manageable chunks. It's not about conquering the mountain in a day, it's about taking one step after the other. Each task you complete gets you closer to your goal. Recognize your effort and reward it as you progress.
Don’t forget to take a break when you need it. Recharging is not a sign of weakness, but a necessary rest stop for consistently high performance. It's like pressing pause on a movie to make some popcorn. You are of paramount importance. So, take care of yourself and prioritize your wellbeing.
Moreover, always keep the bigger picture in mind. The assignments, the lectures, the deadlines – they're all stepping stones on your path to success. They’re ephemeral, fleeting against the grand scheme of your life’s narrative. Don't stress about the perfections, progress is what counts.
Remember to cultivate a supportive network as well. Reach out to fellow students, professors, or academic advisors when you're feeling under the weather. You are not alone in your experience, and it's heartwarming to see the academic community come together to foster a supportive environment.
Lastly, don't play the comparison game. Your journey is yours and yours alone. Your pace and your progress should never be measured by another’s achievements. You are unique, and your path will be too.
Now, back in the real world, the article I had bookmarked to read to you this morning proved to be a no-show on the Internet. Typical tech escapades, isn't it? So instead, you got stuck with my train commute musings. Nevertheless, it gave us the chance to discuss something that could be beneficial in these rapid academic waters we're navigating.
In closing, it's true that the pressures of academia can be burdensome, but I wholeheartedly believe in our capacity to cope with and blossom amidst it all. A little pressure, as they say, creates diamonds.
Stay warm, stay positive, and keep doing your best, dear reader. Keep looking forward to tomorrow.
Your fellow academic traveller, Kaia
Triumph Over Gray: Personal Grooming as Your Battle Cry Against The Drudgery of Life

As I sit on this dreary morning commute, shielded only by the steel of the train car from the bitter 11°C chill, the topic of personal grooming comes to mind. Yes, it's these moments of somber solitude that conjure such thoughts, a distraction from the gray matter of life, leaving my mind to wander to vanity within the confines of this cold, mechanical beast.
Personal grooming, that tiny act of self-love that we grudgingly engage in day after day is a fascinating subject indeed. My fingers, clacking on the keys as the Norwegian countryside blurs outside the grimy train windows, record with sheer force of will the importance of maintaining a disciplined grooming regimen.
It is essential, my friends. Not for the sake of others, but for ourselves. For the self-esteem that tends to wane in the face of relentless life pressures. The world around may be disappointing, but in taking care of ourselves, in honoring our bodies and appearances, there is, believe it or not, a semblance of control, a smudge of morale-booster.
Take for example, your daily facial cleanse. It might seem insignificant amongst life's draining tasks, but there is something about the coolness of water against your skin that invigorates the soul. The reflections in the mirror might be depressing, the bags under the eyes, the frown lines, but the act of cleansing, it rejuvenates. It’s a promise – to yourself - that you matter.
Then there’s the bitter-sweet task of shaving, both for men and women. A monotonous chore that torturously reminds you of your refusal to surrender to unkempt desolation. By staying meticulously groomed, you are asserting your resistance against the drudgery of existence.
Oh, and let’s not forget the hair – the hours spent on taming those rebellious strands. An investment that seems nonsensically frivolous against the pressing concerns of life – but rivals a therapy session in its ability to uplift your mood.
Let’s face it, personal grooming is a battle against misery. A battle we wage each day against the canvases of our bodies. It’s our silent rebellion against the drab reality; a daily reminder of our worth.
As this tired old train drags me towards another grinding routine, I tighten my grip on the silver lining of personal grooming. It's my sliver of hope against the gray-scale of life. My personal cocoon against all that bores and belittles.
And on that note, I urge you all, do not neglect this small act of self-love. Grooming is more than mere aesthetics. It is a testament to our resilience. Grooming isn’t vain, it’s necessary. It's not a choice, it's mandatory warfare against the melancholy.
And so, with a heavy heart and weary eyes, this melancholic soul winds this conversation. As the train clatters towards another day filled with mundane battles, I find solace in the little things, like grooming, that keep the gray at bay.
And remember, no matter how grim the world outside, no matter how colorless your day might seem, your grooming routine is your personal shield, your quiet defiance against the crushing dullness of life. With that, my friends, I shall leave you to the grey rumble of your own commute, with words that bear the weight of white noise, and the bitter kiss of cold reality. Remember, in this world of relentless misery, personal grooming might just be your winning hand.
The Art of Skincare and Journalism - A Journey Through Norwegian Winters and the Essence of Individuality

The somber autumn sky strokes the window with watery hues of grey and white. Through it, the cadaverous landscape outside whips by in a blur, dressed in pallor by the unforgiving 6°C chill. Mother Earth, too, is transitioning into her skincare regime, exfoliating her summer skin to prepare for the frosty kiss of winter. The biting chill of the Norwegian air is a staunch reminder of the importance of skin hydration, much like Solvang's fervent defence, reminding us to cherish uniqueness and individuality rather than succumbing to uniformity.
The train's rhythmic lull sings a melancholy tale of weariness. There's solace in such repetition, a tender echo of a daily skincare regime. The arduous journey down the aisles of cleansers, moisturizers, serums and toners is not unlike these train journeys, marked by their mundane wrestling with time, hope, and resiliency.
Scrubbing away the harsh criticisms of the world is as necessary as sloughing off dead skin cells. A light cleanser, much like a gentle worldview, is a perfect start. Then comes the tranquil poetry of both toners and equilibrium, balancing the skin, restoring the mind. Consistent hydration, akin to constant empathy, keeps the skin plump and mind open. Nourishment, whether by way of serums or good journalism, invigorates the receptive canvas of both skin and society.
Sunscreen, a daily reminder of our place under the cosmic theater's spotlights, is as crucial as remembering our responsibility in protecting the vulnerable skin of truth. It's like an invisible armour, resistant to the scorching heat of criticism.
Wrapping in the cocoon of a night cream before succumbing to darkness is akin to yielding to introspection after a day of battling ignorance; nurturing overnight repair and renewal of conviction, both on our faces and in our hearts.
A skincare regime is not just a routine, it's a ritual –a poignant tribute to self-care and acceptance, much like Solvang's defense of Stromøy. It's an enduring endeavor, marred by occasional bouts of frustration and despair, cheered by the eventual victory of persistence. It's a lonely boat rowing through the sea of mass opinions, steadfast in its path, guided by the compass of individuality.
Just as every skin type requires a unique care plan, every journalist displays a distinct style of reporting. It's easy to forget that behind our protective layer of skin are unique bodies, souls, dreams –and behind every voice projected on media platforms is a human, echoing their individuality, navigating their path through a world of shared uniformity.
To criticize a softer approach in favour of aggressive interviewing is akin to endorsing harsh, abrasive skincare products whilst demoting the gentler ones. Some might find the rigorous approach beneficial, others crave gentleness. Both are valid, all are necessary. Such is the diversity of life.
And so, as another somber evening cascades through the train and my fingertips draw to a close, I wrap my moisturized hands around a tepid cup of coffee and muse upon Solvang's defence, saluting the courage to be different, to be faithful to one's style –in journalism and in skincare alike.
Thriving in the Rhythms of Life: Mastering the Thrill of Personal Grooming

As frosty droplets cling to the train's windows, making a whimsical masterpiece on this -0°C afternoon, I find myself contemplating the mundane yet undeniably significant topic of personal grooming. Getting lost between the rhythmic clatter of the train and the vast, icy expanse outside, I rise above the melancholy of a grim news piece I read earlier on NRK. While tensions escalate internationally, I want to ensure my blog stays a beacon of positivity.
It can feel like a daunting task to introduce routine and regularity into our chaotic lives, can’t it? I get it. Yet, the thrill of mastering a smooth, personalized grooming routine is hard to deny. It's kind of like the exhilaration I felt when I finally located my power bank in my bag, just as my phone threatened to turn off. Suddenly, the world seems better, brighter, and significantly less stressful.
On the subject of power banks, hands up if you can live without one! Being always on the go, it has undoubtedly become my partner in crime. It keeps me thrillingly connected, not only allowing me to scribble these spontaneous thoughts onto my blog but also keeping my world illuminated amid the chaos.
Now, let's discuss personal grooming itself. Developing a consistent routine can feel simultaneously thrilling and comforting - like sipping hot cocoa while reading my favorite book. Try starting with basics - a thorough skincare regime. A soft brush against your skin followed by a splash of water will work wonders. Next, don’t overlook the importance of a good hair routine. Even a simple hair brushing ritual can leave you looking polished, feeling invigorated and thrill you with transformation it offers.
Exploring different products is exciting. Find joy in discovery and experiment until you identify what products suit you best. For those teeth, invest in a good toothpaste and mouthwash. Your smile is your asset, so make sure to keep it brilliantly stunning. Remember, personal grooming doesn't just help you look good, it makes you feel good - from the inside out.
Lastly, let's not forget about dressing up. Choose clothes that make you feel comfortable and confident. The thrill of wearing something that feels uniquely ‘you’ is pure delight. Properly laundered and ironed clothes can boost your morale more than you can imagine!
Just as my train ride across the snowy landscape, personal grooming serves as a journey. It may be a bit bumpy at first, but soon the ride evolves into an experience that thrills us with discovery and growth.
So there you have it. Whether it's preserving your phone’s life line with a power bank or carving out a unique style statement with your grooming habits, it’s these small aspects that add thrills to our day-to-day life. With the world constantly changing around us, it's important we find joy and satisfaction in the little things we have control over...
Now let's take a moment to enjoy the rhythmicity of life (and our grooming routines) as we listen to the clicking wheels of the train and watch the pristine snowflakes dancing in the freezing air.
Until the next time, stay groomed, stay thrilled, and of course, keep that power bank handy!
Shaped by Choices: The Power of Safe Sex and the Courage of Autonomy

Tapping the keys of my laptop as the train trudges onwards from Oslo, I feel the brisk cold of the 1°C weather nestling against the windows. Today, I am inspired - or should I say nudged - by a news article I read detailing a head-on collision that took place in Holmestrand. A gripping reminder of how fragile life can be, and how much our safety is, at times, left to chance.
But when it comes to certain life choices, aren't we better off seizing control rather than leaving it to fate? Which brings me to my subject of the day: pregnancy scares and the vital importance of practicing safe sex.
Like a stray hair wrapped around your finger on a windy day, the fear of an unexpected pregnancy can sneak upon you, wholly unasked for. It brings with it a whirlwind of emotion - surprise, distress, confusion, and a relentless tick-tock-clock reminding us of how life, this grand, expansive adventure, can be transformed in a split second.
Yet, what often rounds the bend after the initial scare is a sobering reflection on the immeasurable power we have over our destinies... through simple rubber contraptions, pills, and informed choices. So, in this lively discourse, let's bare the truth. Those prophylactics aren't mere moist blankets on the throes of passion. They're life rafts, guardians - knights in latex armour, staving off distressing scares and terrible diseases.
Safe sex, dear reader, is truly empowering. It lets you take the reins of your life, warding off unwanted consequences. A contraceptive pill swallowed, a condom used, a timely visit to the doctor for an STD check… they’re all the quiet, everyday reinventions of self-care. Flicking the finger not just on pregnancy scares, but also on dismissive partners or societal taboos.
And so, as the chilly day gives way to a darker night and the train barrels onward through the Norwegian winter, the thought lingers: Our acts, as simple as they seem, bear consequences. We hold immense power in our hands. Whether it's maneuvering a car on a slippery road or navigating the intricate dance of intimacy, our decisions build the road before us.
So, I urge you, dear reader, to take a wheel of your safety, in all aspects of life, be it on road or in bed. Dismiss not the whispers of precaution, for they echo the voices of wisdom.
As I round off today’s post, I can’t help but send out thoughts filled with strength to those involved in the accident today. Life can be daunting, unpredictable. But perhaps, we can learn from such events and strive to always take the safer turn, the most responsible step. One that leads us to wonderful destinations, minus a detour through a scare.
Tags: pregnancy scare safe sex unexpected pregnancy self-care
Glow Up On the Go: Tips for Personal Grooming and Self-Care during your Daily Commute

Hey beautiful people!
Escaping the chill of a frosty 3°C morning, I’m snug and toasty on the train, bright-eyed and bushy-tailed! Actually, scratch that - I'm more like snug and stoked! The caffeine's kicked in, and it’s time to dive into the juicy topic of personal grooming. A fine art it is indeed, one that adds that sprinkle of extra confidence throughout your day, making you radiate from within.
First off, a little secret of mine - hydration! You can never emphasize this enough, I SWEAR by it! Drink plenty of water; it’s the foundation to maintaining that radiant glow. Additionally, moisturizing from the outside is crucial. It doesn't matter if you're combating a sun-kissed summer or a frosty winter morning like today, moisturize that precious skin!
Listen, my fellows, grooming isn't just about polishing the outside. It embraces the YOU-nique YOU. A bit of inward self-care does wonders too. Stick to a nutritious diet, exercise regularly - believe me, it reflects on the outside too!
Speaking of reflections, mirrors! Adermatoglyphia or simply mirror-itis is legit! Having a portable mirror in your bag is oh-so convenient. Quick check-ups on the run, refresh your makeup, assuring lettuce leaves haven't taken residence between your teeth post-lunch – A mini mirror is *the* lifesaver!
Let's not forget the importance of good oral hygiene. A fresh mouth leaves you feeling clean and refreshed. Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss and a tiny bottle of mouthwash (just for emergencies, though).
But what supports this entire routine while you’re on the go? Our unsung hero, the powerbank! In a world where everything turns to tech, a steadfast powerbank opens a suite of options - an electronic toothbrush, mobile device for mental wellness apps, even a mini travel hair straightener. I LOVE my powerbank! Keeps everything charged and me ready to look and feel my best throughout the day, no matter where I am. So, invest in a robust powerbank and thank me later!
As I sit here, reading about the latest from our Energy Minister, speaking on Norway's energy goals and the significant changes in the energy package, I can’t help but appreciate how we’re harnessing technology to create a more sustainable and efficient future. Considering the new regulations on renewable energy and energy efficiency, it brings me immense joy. We're paving the way for a cleaner, greener world. It's an indirect yet crucial aspect of personal grooming - living in a cleaner environment.
But hey, grooming isn’t about becoming someone else, it’s about enhancing what you already have and being the best version of YOU. So, embrace your imperfections, they’re the exotic spices in the recipe of YOU. Look after yourself, love yourself, and let that beauty shine through!
As always, thanks for joining me on this exhilarating train ride! It’s about more than moving from one place to another, it’s about the journey itself. Be sure to take care of yourselves until our next wee little chat. Here’s to staying stoked and strikingly stunning in the most YOU-nique way possible. Stay radiant!