The end of an Era

Life is a struggle. We've heard that many times and we've said that quite a few times ourselves. It's a struggle because of the daily challenges we have to face (starting with the alarm clock) and the occasional tragedy that crosses our paths. 

What constitutes as a tragedy for some may not for others. Nonetheless, we all like to think we have encountered some sort of a tragedy in our life, be it of the humorous or more sombre type. And usually a tragedy involves the ending of something - a stage in life (yes, the shift from a young adult to just an 'adult' or even worse an 'elderly' is mourned by many), a prolonged stay in a certain place (yes, I still miss Australia!), a relationship, a life of a loved one... You know what they say: All good things come to an end.

But that doesn't make it any easier to face this ever eminent end and open a new chapter. At first we protest. We deny the fact that it is over and refuse to let go. We desperately try to reconnect, to tie the two ends together. It is very impressive how stubborn and selfish human nature can be at this point.

Then we decide to man up and act like we don't care. But we still do care, we've just lost all hope of evading 'the end'. The coming to terms with the fact that there is no way back (at least in the immediate future) is painful. So we pity ourselves and dig in that big tub of chocolate ice cream or whatever is your comfort treat.

Once we have realised that we look terrible, that the end is really the end and that we have missed on plenty of  happy days we finally take a close look deep within ourselves. And - surprise! - the pain is no longer brain numbing, the hopelessness has evaporated and we are actually ready to start that new chapter. We have managed to detach ourselves from 'the end'. We have learned our lessons. We are ready to live once again.

xo xo

Love Your Body

Love your body. From this very moment onwards promise yourself that you will love your body despite what life (and other people) might throw at you.

In this day and age, we often tend to overlook our own well-being as we are simply too busy dealing with 'life'. And when we do manage to find some time for ourselves, it's only to criticise our imperfections. Tell me, when you looked  in the mirror today did you compliment yourself? Or did you just notice all those little flaws of yours? 

Have we ever thought how much we punish our bodies? Eating and exercising too much or too little do take their toll, you know. And what about those special drinks and ciggies? The list could go on... My point is we all have our guilty pleasures. And that's fine, but our health should not be paying the price.

I know, it's very easy to say it - it's much harder to practice what you preach, especially with all those negative influences like the media, peer and social pressures and temptations. We can point fingers left, right and centre. Yet, it's also easy to be angry and disappointed with ourselves (but not do anything about improving our situation).

Do not despair! There is always a starting point. And guess what? That starting point is YOU! Here are a few pieces of advice so that you can start loving your body ASAP:

1. Next time you look in the mirror tell yourself you look great. Besides, most imperfections can be fixed with a little bit of extra attention.

2. No extremes! Everything (well almost everything) is good in moderation.

3. Don't expect immediate improvements. You know the saying: good things come to those who wait (and stick with it!).

Well give it a try and let me know how it goes. Just think of it a lifestyle change and a gift for yourself. Because, trust me, you'll feel great. And y'all know beauty comes from within.

Inspirationally yours,

Miranda x

Love

Alright folks, as I promised in my last post this one will be about 'love'. Love is present in all relationships - be it platonic or not. And during this festive season, as people get together to celebrate, love should be manifesting itself in every home. 

New Year's resolutions? I urge you to love more, give more, stop existing and start living! 

Wish you all a fashionably great 2012!

Leaving you, dear reader, with a piece of wisdom:

"What gets you to the altar is likely to be quite different than what keeps you married in the long-term. Not recognizing this transition and adapting with different practices will also get you in trouble."

Until next year-ly yours,

Miranda x