self-care

I have tagged 4 blog posts with self-care:

The Art of Skincare and Journalism - A Journey Through Norwegian Winters and the Essence of Individuality

A woman in a grey sweater, applying cream to her face, with a faded fall backdrop.
Kaia Thonul, Thursday, November 23, 2023, 16:34

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.

Tags: skincare regime self-care individuality

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Thriving in the Rhythms of Life: Mastering the Thrill of Personal Grooming

A bundled-up individual grooming in a train window reflection, frosty scenery rolling by.
Kaia Thonul, Wednesday, November 15, 2023, 14:39

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!

Tags: personal grooming lifestyle self-care

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Shaped by Choices: The Power of Safe Sex and the Courage of Autonomy

Close-up photo of a doctor counsellor handing multicolored condoms to a young couple.
Kaia Thonul, Thursday, November 2, 2023, 15:34

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

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Glow Up On the Go: Tips for Personal Grooming and Self-Care during your Daily Commute

A vanity table with skincare products, fresh fruits, toothbrush, and a power bank next to grooming gadgets.
Kaia Thonul, Thursday, October 26, 2023, 08:25

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!

Tags: oral hygiene personal grooming self-care hydration

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