Robin Goodfellow's Blog, page 35
January 26, 2018
5 Ways to De-Stress
There’s no doubt that life is full of complications. No matter what age, gender, or social standing you are, it’s guaranteed that you will have to face stress. Even so, you’re going to have to find some way to manage it. If you don’t, you may be setting yourself up for many health risks.
So how do we effectively manage our stress? How can we have a good, balanced life, without putting ourselves in harm’s way?
1. Count Your Blessings
[image error]Image by pixel2013 from Pixabay
Oftentimes, we find ourselves struggling to find things to be thankful for, especially if we’re stressed. Even so, remember to count your blessings. Appreciate what you have, and know that the things you have can be more important to you than anything else.
One way you could do this is to write down one thing you’re thankful for. Whether it be in the early morning, late at night, or simply during your break, you’ll be able to remember why you have that thing in your life, and learn not to stress about what you don’t. You can use this workbook to do this. Click here for more information.
2. Learn a Hobby
[image error]Image by rawpixel from Pixabay
Having hobbies can help take your mind off whatever is stressing you out. For example, studies have shown that when you take up any arts-and-crafts activity, you immerse yourself in your project, to the point where you even forget yourself. Hobbies can also help you connect with others, and even encourage you to build up your current skills.
Just recently, I took up crocheting as a hobby. Between my college classes, my writing, and even life in general, I had to get away. I remembered weaving when I was younger, but had stopped in order to deal with my busy schedule. I wasn’t that busy anymore, so I started to take any activities having to do with yarn. While it was hard to learn at first, the more I practiced, the more relaxing the activity became.
3. Talk to Someone
[image error]Image by nastya_gepp from Pixabay
When you talk to someone about what’s stressing you out, we often hear unbiased opinions about what we should and shouldn’t do. It helps put things into perspective, and allows you to sort through your feelings. Talking to someone can also help clear your mind, and help release the pent-up tension inside you. But most importantly, it can help build up your relationships with other people.
4. Exercise
[image error]Image for noah1974 from pixabay
Of course, exercise doesn’t have to be as intimidating as the picture above. And even light exercise can provide not just physical benefits, but psychological benefits too. Similar to how hobbies work, exercising forces you to focus on your body, drawing you away from whatever is stressing you out. More importantly, when you work out, chemicals such as endorphins are released from your brain. Endorphins are linked to pleasure, and are even responsible for helping you get a good night sleep.
5. Spend Time With Loved Ones
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Most importantly, spend time with loved ones. By talking with friends and family, your mood will improve, simply because you’re spending time with the people you care about. They also help you through a variety of difficult situations, and give unique perspectives on how to deal with them.
While a healthy amount of stress can help us get through the day, too much stress can lead to a variety of health problems. However, by doing little things such as spending more time with loved ones, exercising, and taking up hobbies, you can manage your stress effectively, as well as promote a healthy lifestyle.
Book Review for White Wine and Medical Marijuana by Julia Cirignano
White Wine and Medical Marijuana, by Julia Cirignano, is a bittersweet compilation of poems that describe the pain of being in love.
Each poem is like a brutal wakeup call to anyone who had ever been in love. From being forgotten, to watching a womanizer using girls only for his pleasure, each phrase delves into the mindset of what it’s like to fall out of love, to lose the person you care about, or to wish you’ve never been in love at all. Cirignano reverses that old fairytale-like mindset of what love will always be, illustrating the shattered remnants of what love once was.
One poem that particularly touched me was “It’s Not Funny.” I’ve met a lot of guys like that, the ones who believe they could do anything they wanted with the women they see, as if they were nothing more than toys to them. But even so, the women still have to toughen up, laugh it off as if it doesn’t bother them. It makes me wonder why those women allow men to treat them so rudely, but then I realized it to be just one of the scenes that false love can take form. Even so, some of the other poems did bring a smile on my face. They were funny enough to remind the reader of what it felt like to fall in love in the beginning, before reality happened.
The title alone describes how love is, how we tend to rely on drugs such as white wine and medical marijuana to get us through the pain. But even then, we still have to carry on with our lives, with the navy burden that love will always watch us from the corners of our mind. It’s that aspect that I loved the most.
Overall, I liked this collection. Cirignano describes the initial feelings of falling in love, but she also describes the harsh culminations of it, as well as the emotions that come with it. The title also designates love as a drug, that though we may get high from it, we always end up crashing down. As such, I would give this collection a rating of a 4.3 out of 5 stars, and would recommend this book to fans of Hush by Nicole Lyons and The Words Between Us by C.J. Blaise.
January 25, 2018
Book Review for Portraits of The Eerie by Mathilde Musset
Portraits of The Eerie, by Mathilde Musset, is a charming poetry collection illustrating the nightmarish monsters we feared when we were little.
From its cute, yet morbid illustrations, to its fun rhymes, Portraits of The Eerie is a retelling of the bedtime stories that our parents used to scare us with. From a madman’s descent into an asylum, to Victor Frankenstein’s lunacy, to even Dracula’s being burned by the sun, the book is reminiscent of a poisonous fairytale that could both entertain and shock kids. Musset shows these monsters in a hideous light, one that could delightfully frighten even adults.
One of my favorite poems, “Sweet as an ogress”, reminded me of the fairytale, Hansel and Gretel. In the story, Hansel and Gretel were left in the forest by their wicked stepmother. They wander around until they find a witch’s house, who lures them in with her sweets and treats. She then captures Hansel, and fattens him up to eat him. The poem reminds me of this story because of the ogress’s poisonous sweets and her hideous smile. This poem captures the delightful essence of the book, in both its monstrous cuteness, and its fairytale-like storytelling.
Because of this, I would give this book a 4.8 out of 5.0 stars. This book is a perfect balance between horror and children’s literature. The poetry is musical, the illustrations are creepy, and was, in fact, incredibly well done. As such, I would recommend this book to fans of horror and Gothic fairytales in general.
Book Review for Catching a Dream by J.R. McRae
Catching a Dream, by J.R. McRae, is a single poem about the wonders of childhood, and the dreams that surround us while we were growing up.
The poem begins with a child who catches a bright, shinning orb. They let it go, as the orb slowly absorbs everything around them. Before long, the poem thrusts itself into fantastical imagery and metaphors, from cups overflowing with teardrops and candy drops, to bowls being filled with oceans and rivers. McRae’s imagination overwhelmingly pours out from these images, with the phrases laced in golden allusions and hauntingly beautiful descriptions. McRae shows just how wonderful the world can be, with each line a testament to the magic around us.
I honestly loved this book. While the illustrations might be a bit too eerie for children, the poem does bring a level of nostalgia and fondness of the past. It reminds readers of the times when we were young, untainted by societal expectations and stereotypes. We probably felt like we could do anything, and this poem conveys exactly those emotions. The last line of the poem was particularly hopeful, of when the child finally grows up, and goes to face the world with their own mind.
As such, I would give this book a rating of a 4.5 out of 5 stars. Though the drawings are a bit creepy, it nevertheless reminds of the innocence of childhood. Thus, I would recommend this book to fans of all ages, especially children’s literature.
January 24, 2018
Book Review for The Angel of a Madman by Ricky Dragoni
The Angel of a Madman, by Ricky Dragoni, is a touching story about how two individuals manage to support each other in an otherwise cruel life.
Bracket is running from monsters who can see through his powers, all the while desperately trying to survive in a dangerous world he barely knows anything about. Gabriel is a world traveler who has terminal cancer, and is grieving for the loss of his wonderful mother. After an unfortunate, albeit amusing, incident, the two strike up an odd friendship. As time goes on, they slowly begin to open up to one another, and find that there is more to life than they realized. They see then that in the darkest of times, they can rely on one another for support.
I loved the friendship between Gabriel and Bracket. When they met, they were so awkward with each other, so much so I could’t help. From Gabriel’s debating as to whether or not to help Bracket, to Bracket upgrading Gabriel from servant to friend, to even Bracket’s attempts in helping Gabriel with his social life, the development between the two was well-executed. It had gotten to the point where they were mistaken as a gay couple. I enjoyed every minute of it, not only because of their humorous moments, but also because they both suffered in life. Despite this, they still try to help each other. It’s a testament as to how close they are as friends.
This story also touches on the topic of solitude. There’s something about these two characters that allow them to build up their relationship. They act like childhood friends around each other, rather than just strangers who met only a couple of weeks ago. They share the same kind of loneliness, one devoid of love, friendship, and even simple acquaintance. It’s this very characteristic that makes this story so attractive. In my opinion, it’s uplifting, and a part of humanity that is overlooked quite often.
As such, I would give this book a rating of a 4.5 out of 5 stars. This book provides an insight to mental illness, as well as the simple fact that the world isn’t as dark a place as we initially make it out to be. From the unlikely friendship, to the hopeful, yet bittersweet ending, this book is a must for those who love PeopleFish by Medella Kingston and Black Inked Pearl by Ruth Finnegan.
Book Review for Hush Nicole Lyons
Hush, by Nicole Lyons, is a collection of poetry that illuminates the pain of losing someone, as the world forces you to move on without them.
From the decaying light of an old tree, to the loss of a dearly beloved, Lyons drapes these poems in a Gothic, almost wintry feel, one that she masterfully weaves into the stanzas. Her words demonstrate the crushing devastation of missing , alongside the harsh realization that love isn’t anything at all how we may expect it to be. This book of poetry will make you comprehend the fine lines between love and madness, as Lyons brings the dark reality that perhaps the human heart isn’t all it is to be, and that some of humanity’s most corrupt secrets should be left alone.
There was a particularly sorrowful poem that caught my attention in the collection. It was about two lovers, both of whom must swallow pain and burdens, both their own and each others’, in order to maintain the hollow fragment they call a relationship. The words reminded me of the brief, chaotic romances many adolescents face; even grownups have trouble letting go from time to time. It demonstrates that we cling to our failed relationships, though we may try to convince ourselves otherwise, and that in order to heal, we must first let each other go. There was also another heartbreaking image for me, one of a tree I couldn’t help but see when I first read one of the poems, Dropping Leaves of Dreams. That tree was fully grown, beautiful in all its majesty. However, as time passes, with its own dreams lost, missing loves turning up here and there, that tree begins to die. I can almost imagine its loveliness fading, very much like an adult who had forgotten the happiness in their youth.
The collection was sad as it was touching. Though it was a bit too depressing at times, it was wonderful nonetheless. Thus, I would give this collection a rating of a 4.4 out of 5 stars, and would recommend it to those who enjoys magical realism and tragic romances.
January 23, 2018
Book Review for Fallen Men by Brian O’ Hare
Fallen Men, by Brian O’ Hare, is a story about finding hope, despite failing time and time again.
The book is separated into three parts. The first part, Ministry, introduces Father Ray, a priest who is struggling with the death of his beloved mother, along with his loneliness. In the second part, Retribution, Ray finds himself at a moral crossroad, when a girl he is infatuated with becomes pregnant with his child. Things further complicate when other colleagues find out about the pregnancy. The final part, Redemption, Ray faces the crime he committed, and that, though the world is against him, he still faces his conviction proudly. In this dark, yet touching story, Hare constructs a reality that reminds the reader that people can find redemption, even if they’ve fallen.
To be honest, it’s hard for me to blame any of the characters. From Tony trying to protect his friend by covering up a potentially damaging scandal, to Dan endeavoring to follow his teachings, regardless of how anyone feels, to even Maria and Ray giving into one night of passion; these characters do, in fact, fall victim to sins of their own heart. Ambition, arrogance, loneliness; these factors only serve to add to the complex dimensions that make up their own individual faith. Needless to say, the one thing that stood out to me was the relationship between Maria and Ray. It’s clear they’re both attracted to each other from the moment they saw each other. They were both at fault for the scandal, no matter how anyone looks at it; Maria for voluntarily giving herself to Ray, and Ray for going along with Father McGennity’s suggestions of having Maria get an abortion. The way they handled the situation was also horrific, so much so that they both ended up suffocating beneath their guilt. They did try to make things right in the end, if not for themselves, but for other people. Each character was beautifully written. Hare shows that there are shades of grey in the world, all the while destroying the illusion of the absolute black and white we tend to believe in.
But despite this, the story in and of itself hauntingly reflects the realities of the Catholic Church. As you may or may not know, Cardinal George Pell had recently been charged with multiple sexual assault cases. Witnesses have come forward, many of whom were children when they alleged the Cardinal took advantage of them. He, and other priests, were by no means holy men. They contrasted sharply to Ray, who was willing to face the truth, to burn himself, if only for the chance of redemption. Tony had almost fell into the pattern of covering up the case, but even so, he still stopped himself, and trusted Ray. If there were more priests like Ray, the Church might’ve gotten a bit better when it came to sexual abuse. Unfortunately, however, that’s not the case.
This brings me to the theme of compassion. Maria loved and hated Ray for putting through so much trauma. Still, she did support him during his trial. Dan had seen that, because of his harshness and relative cruelness, he kept pushing people away, kept shoving them in the wrong direction. But even so, he did come back to Ray in the end, if only to see if he was alright. Tony did try to protect Ray, but in the end saw that the kindest thing he could do was have faith in him, and allow him to do what’s right. Hare shows how difficult it was, for these people to care for others, rather than themselves. It was a well written part of the book that I found quite enjoyable.
There were a few mistakes here and there, and the transitions from a character’s thoughts to the actual paragraph itself could have also been clearer. Nevertheless, it was a good book. The characters, the ever fading boundary between right and wrong, and even the parallels between this world and the real one, were extraordinary. Thus, I would give this book a rating of a 4.6 out of 5 stars, and would recommend it to those who love The Angel of a Madman by Ricky Dragoni and PeopleFish by Medella Kingston.
Rose Oil and its Health Benefits
To us, roses represent the beautiful culmination of nature and medicine. From pure, innocent white roses, to the mysterious and dirgeful black roses, these roses have illustrated humanity’s salvation and damnation time and time again. Rose products, such as rose water, have health benefits such as hair growth and skin care.
Rose oil is yet another one of these products. The oil has been used for a variety of conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and even gastrointestinal problems. It works either by inhaling its scent, applying it directly onto your skin, or even adding a few drops into your hair care products, such as your shampoo. But what exactly can rose oil do? And how?
[image error]Image by monicore from pixabay
Rose Oil Uses
Stress Reliever
Because of its relaxing properties, rose oil can help relieve stress, and is often used as an additional therapeutic agent. Rose oil has also been known to help promote self-esteem, and can also drive away anxiety and depression. The oil’s scent helps soothes the central nervous system, and helps you when you’re going through a tough time. In order to utilize its benefits, you can place 1-2 drops of rose oil on your hands, then gently rub them together.
[image error]Image by TesaPhotography from pixabay
Anti-microbial
Rose oil is particularly popular in its anti-microbial traits. According to the National Institutes of Health, the oil hinders the growth of bacteria such as Staph. auereus, a common bacteria that have caused pimples, boils, and pneumonia. Because of these properties, rose oil is popular with wound disinfection and skin care (as stated below). In fact, it has gotten to the point where rose oil, along with other essential oils, may just become “the new antibiotics.”
[image error]Image by silviarita from pixabay
Skin Care
Our skin can often reveal underlying conditions in our bodies, whether they be bacterial infections, stress disorders, or even liver health. As such, the skin is most affected by rose oil. Rose oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and irritation. It can help retain water, and can also moisturize your skin, as well as control skin diseases such as psoriasis. Overall, skin care can improve your complexion, and is often recommended for beauty care.
[image error]Image by silviarita from pixabay
Overall Health
Hormones are signaling molecules in the body that targets specific cells, many of which can influence the body in various ways, such as metabolism, sleep, mood, and even reproduction. Because rose oil helps maintain this hormone balance, the oil can also be said to promote the overall healthy balance of the body. Not only that, but rose oil also has antioxidant properties, which can be used to fight free radicals and reduce cellular damage to your body.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt that rose oil has many benefits. From its medicinal properties, to its sweet and relaxing scent, rose oil is just as poetic as its other rose-based products. Because of this, rose oil can make the perfect gift for anyone, whether it be friends, family, or even acquaintances. You can click the link below to buy some.
-Featured image by monicore from pixabay
-Be sure to consult your healthcare provider so that it’s safe for you to use rose oil.
Book Review for Chasing the Chalice by Laura Charlotte Berlin
Chasing the Chalice, by Laura Charlotte Berlin, is a chapbook that entices you into a dream filled with happiness, sorrow, and mischief.
Each poem seems to open a rift between reality and fiction. The words invite you to stay for a while, however long you’ve been gone. But despite that, there is still an anchor, a guiding voice that allows you to come back when you’re finished with each poem. From the permeance of existence, to the sorrowful hope that the truth is out in the world somewhere, it’s as if Berlin herself is reading these poems to you, endeavoring to lead you through the harsh lessons she’s had to learn on her own.
The book reminds me of a festival in the Fairy Courts, or a chaotic feast dedicated to Bacchus. One of my favorite sayings came from a poem that described becoming obsessed with these dreams. It was similar to the way one would nurse their addiction to drugs, or even alcohol. To live in a world filled with lies, or wallow in sweet nothingness; in fact, I’ve felt this pull many times, as had many literature lovers. But regardless, we still must walk the boundary between slumber and wakefulness, all the while ignoring the sirenic call of our own dark illusions. It’s an enchanting quality that allows the chapbook to show you just what the other poems in the book are about.
As such, I would give this book a rating of a 4.3 out of 5 stars. While balancing out the elements between realism and fantasy, Berlin weaves an insightful book of poetry that leaves you clinging for more. Thus, I would recommend this book to fans of poetry in general.
January 22, 2018
Book Review for Drifting, Falling: Diary of a Call Girl Suicide by A.J. Ullman
Drifting, Falling: Diary of a Call Girl Suicide, by A.J. Ullman, is about facing your past, even if you see nothing but an eroding future in front of you.
Ripley Astilla Luna, also known as Justine, is an escort who is seeing Dr. Dan Truscott, a psychiatrist. With each visit, Dr. Truscott begins to unravel the many layers behind her mysterious nature. From hearing about a strange friend named Mort Maine, to the growing obsession he develops for her, Dr. Truscott starts to understand the complexities that make up the beautiful Ripley. However, it all comes to a head when Ripley reveals a devastating secret, one that forces her to dangle between the edge of life and death.
I loved Ripley’s character. Her seeking out a love that could only be described as empty, as well as the dark sins of the demons in her mind, Ripley can’t easily be classified by anyone in normal society. In a way, it made her more human in my eyes, even after her horrific revelations. But still, somehow she is trying to give back to the world, trying to search out a way to pay for her mistakes, to try and do some good, before she kills herself. It seemed that Dr. Truscott was just starting to see a glimpse of this. Perhaps it was the reason why he went after her the way he did, why he risked himself to save her. Depression really does open your eyes to certain parts of life, details that happiness or joy could neither understand, nor even realize.
The entire diary was more than just a cry for help. In fact, it’d be an insult if readers looked at it like that. This work depicted the crushing guilt of a woman who did love people, who tried helping others in her own, special way. Through her death and money, she hoped to impact others. After all, sorrow is different from ordinary sadness, one that many people struggle to overcome. It’s nice, then, to have someone be by your side, to have someone reach out to you, despite your faults.
As such, I would give this book a rating of a 4.0 out of 5 stars. Ullman cultivates a novel that illustrates the thoughts of a woman who kept drifting throughout the world. Readers will be touched by the impact of her words, from Ripley’s childhood, to her final moments in the book.
