The Art of Better Time Management for Highly Sensitive People

The Art of Better Time Management. As a highly sensitive person (HSP), is managing your time one of your biggest challenges? Do you tend to zone out and forget to look at your to-do list? Or, worse still, purposefully ignore everything and think I'll deal with that another day; today, it's too much.

Being a highly sensitive person can make time management challenging. You might feel overwhelmed by the stress of being overworked or the anxiety of getting things done on time. This might lead to you getting less sleep than usual, further exacerbating your sensitivity. It's important to take care of yourself while also managing your time wisely.

How do you manage your time so that you can be more productive without burning out?

Get Organized

Being organized is one of the most important things I can do for my sanity at home and work. The creative side of your personality is thinking, well, that kills the fun in everything if I have it all organized out, and it's a dull routine.

But that boring routine will save you from feeling anxious and help your mind to focus on what you need to do in your life. Firstly you need to get a big picture of your life so you know where to start.

Work on organizing your home and work to-do lists – what do you have in your life that is outstanding and you need to get done?

By getting your life organized, you will have the big picture. Add in things you would love to do, like taking a pottery or yoga class.

Add those to a separate list. Write absolutely everything down, take time to do it properly. All the time and effort you put in up front will make the coming weeks and months easier.

Notebook or App

Throughout my life, I have tried many different ways to organize everything, a notebook I carry everywhere, the bullet journal method, just write everything down as you think of it method, and any other written method I could find.

Then I added apps since many can sync with your calendar, and you get pop-ups to remind you.

I can't say I love any one way; none have filled that void. I'm not too fond of many apps because they are too busy, the colors too loud, the font is wrong, too big, and I can't change it.

I prefer a very minimalist visual app with soft colors. I currently use an app called Things 3 which only works with Apple devices.

It's the most minimalist-looking app I could find, and this way, I can add a task to my phone when I am not home. I also have a notebook handy and between the two I manage to stay on top of everything.

Organization Day

Plan a day where you work on organizing your life, both work and home – if that's too much, then plan two days, one for work and one for home.

Try to make it a day where you are home alone and can concentrate on what you are doing, or make sure people leave you alone.

It's hard to focus when someone keeps interrupting you or constantly talking.

There are two options you have here once you make your to-do list:

1. You can start with the easy ones and rapidly run through them, cutting your list down quickly.

2. You can concentrate on the most important to-dos and get those out of the way first.

I do a mixture of both of those two. If things are not critical, I'll run through all the easy ones to cut the list down.

If anything needs to happen soon, I do the important ones first. Work with whichever of those suits you best.

Stay Focused

The main point is to focus; the day is just for organizing and continuing until you finish it. HSPs can hyper-focus and block the world out, take that strength, and put it to good use.

Try not to multitask; a little bit is fine, but too much can be overwhelming. Take small breaks to eat or when you need them but don't let your focus drift off to something else.

Once you have completed all the items on the list that you can do in a day, break out any remaining ones over the coming weeks and months.

Suppose your work list is a nightmare; set realistic goals. It's tempting to try and do everything at once, but that can cause burnout and stress.

Instead, establish reasonable goals for yourself in your list so that small accomplishments will keep coming throughout the week or month instead of feeling like an overwhelming mountain of work at once.

The most important thing is being proactive in managing your time and providing a framework for developing that habit. Think about your goals and create a plan around them.

Now that you are caught up, you will be amazed at how much you can accomplish by simply making a list of daily activities and prioritizing your tasks. Managing your time is not easy for highly sensitive people, but it can become easier by spending time to stay on top of it each day.

The Art of Better Time Management

Now that you have your to-do lists in order and are on top of your work and home life, you can work on time management.

Look at the year ahead, and enter any big events on the calendar, both for work and home.

Then, work on the current month, enter the various things that you need to accomplish that month. Move through the other months and fill in the calendar.

Now you'll want to look at the current month and start with the week you are about to enter.The

See what you have listed, goals, meetings, home projects, bills to pay, and dinner with friends; make sure all of it is listed out.

Now you have the big picture., and can start to get control of your time management and cut out a lot of anxiety you may feel.

Work on the upcoming days and break out each part of your day into manageable time slots.

Include your morning workout, breakfast, work emails, meetings, work projects, to-do list, grocery shopping, and write everything down.

Calendars

Each evening when you finish your day, you can update the following days with anything you may not have completed or need to add.

You will know ahead of time what your day looks like. You have already done the heavy lifting of organizing it; now, you need to spend a little time each evening updating it and staying on track.

The calendar will work as your guide on how to spend your time. It will also help you see where you may be spending too much time on things that you shouldn't or that you haven't seen friends in a while. It will keep track of it all.

You can create different calendars if it helps you to divide things out; I have Mac calendars for work, home, health, and to-dos. I can look at them separately or all together.

If you are tracking food or hobbies, you can have calendars for those. Make it as complicated or easy as you need, and adjust as you move along.

Keep trying different things until you are happy with how you are tracking everything. New apps are coming out all the time with different functionality. Keep up to date with all of it.

Make it a Habit

Once you get the hang of what you need to do and how to prioritize things, it can be easy and fun. It is still possible to achieve your goals regardless of your sensitivity.

By becoming aware of your tendencies and by learning the best ways to channel drive and work efficiently, you can find a way to establish productive habits even under stressful or hectic conditions.

I feel my best when I have my life completely in order; bills are paid, the house is spotless, and everything is where it should be, so I don't have to look for anything.

My email/work to-do list is minimal and I'm on top of all the important things. Those days/ weeks are glorious.

When you are on top of things, you feel more in control of your life, and really, this is where we should strive to be most of the time.

To Recap:

Make master lists for home and work.
Set aside a day or two to focus on getting things done from your lists and to get the big picture of your overall workload.
The remaining to-dos and goals should be mapped out on a year calendar.
Create more than one calendar, work, home, health, food tracking etc. but remember to view them together each evening.

Work on the current month to add in all meetings, personal events, to-do deadlines.
Work on your upcoming week, adding in workout time, breakfast, meetings, grocery shopping, dinner with friends, and prep for upcoming goals.
Each evening review your calendar for the next day, adjust as needed to accommodate any events or meetings that popped up. Also, carve out time for tasks that you were not able to complete that day.
Keep your master work and home to-do lists up to date.

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Travel

Iceland: What to pack for a Cold Winter Trip of a Lifetime

Iceland

Visiting Iceland in the winter is a breathtaking experience! In January, the cold temperatures can be pretty extreme, but the beauty of the winter landscape makes it all worth it. Iceland offers a unique and captivating winter experience from the snow-capped mountains to the frozen fjords.

I recently had the opportunity to visit Iceland, and it was one of the most unique and unforgettable experiences of my life. Little did I know, however, that I would be visiting during one of the worst snowstorms the country had seen in over 100 years.

The snow was relentless and seemed never to stop, blanketing the entire landscape in a thick and beautiful layer of white. I was mesmerized by the beauty of the snow and how it transformed the natural landscape of Iceland.

Before my trip, I did a lot of research on what clothing I should bring; I feel cold half the time in California so Iceland in the dead of winter somewhat terrified me. I have always wanted to go in winter, so everything would be fine if I planned correctly.

My planning proved successful; my North Face parka, and all my layers kept me warm and cozy during the trip.

Layering is the key to staying warm in Iceland in winter and adjusting your clothing to fit the temperatures. In Iceland, you can experience all four seasons in one day, so it's good to be prepared.

Plus, it's always warm when you go into restaurants to eat, and layering allows you to take some of your outer gear off easily.

First, you'll need a good-quality waterproof and windproof winter coat. Researching this was annoying because many coats say they are water resistant which is different from waterproof, and from my experience, I would go with waterproof.

Look for a coat with a hood and a long length to keep you warm and dry. And you can wear a fleece or down jacket under the coat for extra warmth.

The coat I ended up with was a lifesaver, it kept me warm and dry, and the wind did not get through at all. I can 100% recommend The North Face Women's Arctic Parka.

It comes in various colors and has detachable fur surrounding the hood, and the hood itself is also detachable. Initially, I was going to leave the fur behind, but I'm so glad I didn't; it helped keep the wind and snow off my face.

Wear multiple thin layers of thermal underwear, sweaters, and fleece tops. Make sure the first layer is a moisture-wicking fabric to keep you dry and comfortable.

I purchased my thermals on Amazon for $29, and was not sure if they would work. Wool thermals were selling for $80 just for the tops. They worked perfectly so don't worry about buying the cheaper options.

You'll also need a good pair of waterproof winter boots with thick rubber soles and insulation. Choose a pair with a high ankle which will give more support when hiking and keep your feet dry and warm. I saw some people wearing sneakers, and they looked miserable. You really do need hiking boots.

I purchased Merrell hiking boots, and didn't have time to break them in before I left, which I was worried about. It worked out fine as they were incredibly comfortable from day one. I can't imagine doing a trip like that without them. With some thick snow socks and toe warmers I was happy, comfortable and warm!

Next you'll need a pair of waterproof and windproof snow pants are also a must. Look for a pair with a warm fleece lining to keep your legs warm and dry. It's warm when you wear fleece-lined snow pants over fleece-lined thermal leggings.

Finally, make sure to pack a hat, scarf, and gloves. Wool materials are best for keeping your head and hands warm. I also ordered rechargeable hand warmers from Amazon that worked wonders. I could slip them inside either my mittens or coat pockets. They are small enough that they won't bother you but do the job well. Also, they charge easily via a USB port.

One thing I didn't bring that I didn't think about was something to cover my face. I pulled my scarf over my face, but it wasn't great. When looking, go for a Gaither that you can pull over your nose and mouth instead of a scarf. If you opt for a scarf, buy one that is compact so you can use it and keep it out of the way under your coat.

By following this guide, you'll be sure to stay warm and dry on your winter trip to Iceland. With the right clothing, you'll be able to explore stunning winter landscapes with ease. So, pack smart and enjoy your trip

Top Layers

Thermal Top
Heavy Sweater or Fleece
Parka Coat
Hat | Scarf | Gloves

Bottom Layers

Thermal Leggings
Snow Socks
Waterproof Snow Pants
Insulated Hiking Boots

How Many to Pack

Thermals x 2
Snow Pants x 2
Snow Socks x 2
Sweaters x 3

We did an 8-day tour around Iceland and could only bring a 24″ suitcase each. Two pairs of thermals and two pairs of snow pants worked perfectly for our tour. If you wear a t-shirt under your thermals, they last quite a while.

The North Face Women’s Arctic Parka

This coat was amazing. Even though I live in California, I am always cold, so I figured I would die in Iceland in Winter.

However, I was very cozy with all the proper layers in place and this coat to top it all off. I 100% can recommend this coat if you are traveling to a winter destination.

Water & Wind Proof | 600 fill goose down | Removable, three-piece hood.

Merrell Women's Thermo Rhea Mid Waterproof Snow Boot

Incredibly comfortable and cozy, these boots fit perfectly from day one. With snow socks and these toe heaters being out in the snow all day was no bother.

Herobiker Women's Fleece lined Thermal Underwear.

Ultra-soft with excellent breathability. And the super skin-touch fabric that feels cozily soft.

The latest 4-way stretch material provides a breathable and comfortable fit that you can hardly feel.

Dafengea Women's Fleece lined Snow Ski Pants

Incredibly comfortable and cozy, these hiking pants are made of 92% polyester and 8% spandex, which are waterproof, windproof, warm, abrasion resistant, and have no pilling.

The pants are slim fitting, with multiple zipped pockets, adjustable elastic waistband, and a belt.

Dnaleao Rechargeable Hand Warmers.

These are wonderful! The two-pack hand warmers fit comfortably into a woman's hand and heat on both sides.

They are easy to charge with a USB connection, last twelve hours, and have three different heat levels.

Weierya Women's Ski Socks.

These thermal merino wool socks were great. They have moisture wicking and most importantly not itchy. You can add a light pair of regular socks under these for extra warmth.

Aran Crafts Women's Soft Irish Wool Knitted Cable Cardigan.

Made in Ireland, this traditional Irish cardigan is made with super soft merino wool and is great for cooler temperatures because it acts as an insulator.

With your fleece thermal base layers and the North Face coat to top it off, this will keep you very warm.

HotHands Toe Warmers.

Simply stick them on your toes over your socks and they will keep you warm all day long. These are single use items, I could not find a rechargeable option that worked well.

How to Get There
& When to Go

Planes

There are two ways of getting to Iceland; by airplane or by ferry. Around 20 airlines offer regular flights from destinations in Europe and North America to all year round. Those who prefer to bring their own car can take the Norröna ferry instead from Denmark.

Best Time to Visit
September through to May are the best times for HSPs. The summer months are usually incredibly busy with tourists in Iceland.

Click HERE for the TripAdvisor Iceland Travel Guide

General
Information

Language
Icelandic and English

Currency
Icelandic Króna,

Cash | Cards
Credit cards are accepted everywhere, but it's always advisable to have some cash on hand if needed.

Plugs
The standard voltage is 230 V; buy a travel adapter before leaving.

Icelandic Emergency
112 is the single emergency number in Iceland, representing all the response parties to accidents, fire, crime, search and rescue.

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Lifestyle

The Brilliant 2022 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards are a fun, lighthearted yearly competition that celebrates wildlife photography and the hilarious moments that animals can create. The goal of the award is to bring awareness to the beauty and importance of wildlife while also having fun.

A strong trait of highly sensitive people is a connection with animals. For myself personally, I even go so far as to say I sometimes prefer the company of animals to people. So, I really enjoy seeing the results of this competition each year.

The photos make me smile, some are so hilarious you can't help but laugh. The photographers must be so quick to get these shots, and I can only imagine they are in some exotic destination.

Wildlife photography can be tricky. The natural environment is unpredictable, and animals are very sensitive to their surroundings. But sometimes, animals can surprise even the most experienced photographer, leading to moments which make for highly entertaining photography.

Humor in the Wild

Paul Joynson-Hicks and Tom Sullam founded the Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards.

Both are professional photographers and passionate conservationists who set up this global and free-to-enter photography competition showcasing images of the earth's most incredible wildlife.

The 2022 competition is the sixth edition of the awards with the theme “Humor in the Wild.”

The competition has become an international sensation, with photographers from all over the world submitting their funny animal shots.

The competition is open to everyone, and you must submit a minimum of 4 images that feature animals in their natural habitat.

In 2022 the competition had over 5,000 entries from over 85 countries.

Photographs should demonstrate a sense of humor, with animals in funny poses, expressions, or actions. Entries are judged by a panel of leading wildlife photographers, conservationists, and photo editors.

Comedy Wildlife Photography Award Winner for 2022

The awards are divided into three categories: Professional, Amateur, and Junior. The overall winner will be chosen from the Professional category and receive a cash prize of $2,000.

The winner of the competition for 2022 is Jennifer Hadley, for her classic photograph of a lion cub losing its grip on a tree trunk entitled ‘Not so cat-like reflexes.'

The moment was captured by Jennifer in the Serengeti, Tanzania, late one afternoon. The three-month old lion cub was trying to climb down the tree but it didn't go as planned!

The lion cub was able to right himself before he reached the ground and ran off with his siblings. This shot also won the Creatures of the Land category.

The main photo for this post is of two penguins which was also taken by Jennifer and titled “Talk to the Fin”. That photo won the “People's Choice Award,” where the public can vote for their favorite image.

Below are some of my favorites from the competition, I only wish that I were as good a photographer as the people who took these images. I would love to hear the wonderful stories of what lead up to them taking each photo.

The Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards are a great way to celebrate wildlife and bring attention to the hard work of conservationists. If you're a great photographer, make sure to enter your funniest wildlife photos for next year's awards!

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Lifestyle

8 Amazing Benefits Of Being Highly Sensitive

What are the benefits of being highly sensitive? As a highly sensitive person, I sometimes focus on the negative aspects of the trait because being highly sensitive can be challenging to deal with. However, because it's an innate trait, this is something you cannot change about yourself; this is who you are.

The best thing to do is realize there are some difficulties, as with all things in life, so reframe your thinking. Keep reminding yourself of the many positives we have on our side.

On the positive side, you're more likely to be empathetic and compassionate, which is excellent! But on the negative side, it can be difficult to ignore the world when it's so loud, overwhelming, and sometimes very mean.

When experiencing a negative situation, remind yourself that this is temporary and you will get through it.

Think of the beautiful gifts, such as increased awareness, strong empathy, creative thinking, and intuition. If you're highly sensitive, remember to embrace your unique skills and use them to your advantage. Let's explore what makes highly sensitive people unique—and why being one should be celebrated.

Increased Awareness

Highly sensitive people are very perceptive and have an uncanny ability to pick up on the subtleties in their environment. This heightened awareness allows them to quickly connect seemingly unrelated events and make decisions.

Intuitive

Highly sensitive people are often very intuitive. They can often sense something wrong, even if they don't have all the facts. This can be a great asset in many situations, allowing them to make decisions quickly and confidently.

It also allows them to pick up on the moods and feelings of the people around them, which in turn can guide them in ways that can help alleviate what others are going through in bad times.

Creative Thinking

Highly sensitive people tend to have a more active imagination and can connect concepts more quickly than others. They are more likely to pick up on subtle cues and nuances, leading them to think of creative solutions to problems. They are also more likely to think outside the box and come up with unconventional ideas which may be more effective.

The Well-Being of Others.

You're likely more empathetic, meaning you have an innate ability to feel what others are feeling. This means you'll be able to put yourself in someone else's shoes—even if they're not your size or gender. It also makes them excellent listeners and helps them form strong relationships with those around them.

HSPs tend to be highly involved in their communities because of their desire to help others and understand the world around them.

They also like to focus on wellness and wellness practices like meditation or yoga because it allows them time away from their busy schedules and a way of connecting back with themselves.

Deep Inner Lives.

A deep inner life is one of the huge benefits of high sensitivity. They can spot opportunities for growth and change and take advantage of them. They are also able to identify their problems and work through them. For example, if a highly sensitive person feels their work could be better, they may seek feedback from others to hone their craft.

Highly sensitive people tend to care deeply about big and small things and are very aware of the impact they can have on other people through their words or actions. HSPs want to ensure that they do not cause harm when interacting with others, so they can often go out of their way to ensure that no one feels hurt by what they say or do.

Their inner life is also a place where they can go when they need time alone or when they need to recharge their batteries.

Empathetic & Compassionate.

It's common for HSPs to be very empathetic and compassionate, as seen in their everyday actions. They are known for being caring individuals who go out of their way to help others when needed. They are also more sensitive to injustice and discrimination, which drives them to act in ways that benefit society.

HSPs are more likely than non-HSPs to volunteer, donate money and time, and participate in community activities.

They are also more likely to engage in altruistic behavior, such as taking care of others who are sick or injured, even when they are not feeling well. They may even take on tasks no one else wants to do because they think it is the right thing to do.

Good Listeners.

You are more likely to be a good listener if you're highly sensitive. It's not just that you can pay attention and actively listen; it's also about your ability to empathize with others.

Psychologists have been studying the qualities of HSPs for decades now, and one thing that keeps coming up is how empathetic they tend to be.

According to psychologist Elaine Aron, who coined the term “highly sensitive person,” these people are more tuned in when observing other people's emotions and body language.

They are often able to provide helpful guidance based on what they see, making them excellent at comforting others when someone needs support or having an open dialogue about whatever is troubling them (personal or professional).

Being a good listener has its benefits: It can help improve your relationships with friends, family members, coworkers—and even strangers.

It can lead to better communication skills overall (which can make you seem more trustworthy) while allowing those around you to feel comfortable opening up about their problems without fear of judgment or ridicule from their peers or superiors at work/school.

Emotional Intelligence.

The ability to identify and control your own emotions is called emotional intelligence. Being highly sensitive means picking up on other people's emotions, making sense of them, and acting on them is more straightforward.

Being highly sensitive can benefit emotional intelligence because you can pick up on other people's feelings.

It becomes easier to communicate with them even when they're not saying much or giving off apparent cues, which helps you be a better friend and partner.

Also, being highly sensitive means better understanding yourself and how your mind works, making it easier to identify what makes you happy or sad.

How to Stay Positive

Take time for yourself: Make sure to set aside time each day to do something that makes you feel relaxed and centered.
Cultivate supportive relationships: Spend time with people who understand and appreciate your sensitivity.
Practice self-compassion: Pay attention to your inner dialogue and be gentle with yourself when you make mistakes.
Find outlets for your emotions: Find healthy outlets such as journaling, yoga, or art.

Limit your exposure to negative stimuli: Take steps to limit your exposure to triggers such as negative news or people who bring you down.
Focus on the present moment: Remind yourself to stay in the present moment and practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing and meditation.
Look for the silver lining: Remind yourself to find the silver lining in each situation and focus on the good that can come from it.
Focus on what you can control: Remember that you can't control everything and focus on the things within your power to change.

While being highly sensitive can sometimes come with challenges, it's important to remember that this trait has many positive aspects.

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Lifestyle

Empathy Fatigue: Advice from A Highly Sensitive Person

“Empathy Fatigue”. As a highly sensitive person, have you found that as the years move on, you feel mentally and physically exhausted by everyone around you, the world, and the constant bombardment of sad news? You are not quite sure how you got here, but everything is too much, people are draining, and you want to be alone all the time.

Highly sensitive people (HSPs) have a deep sense of empathy and an awareness of the feelings of others; because of this, it can be difficult to keep up our emotional strength, as we can often become overwhelmed by the struggles of those around us.

On the one hand, HSPs can be highly attuned to the needs of others and be great problem solvers. On the other hand, we can be easily overwhelmed and struggle to find the right balance between our needs and those of others.

Not only do we feel empathy for the people in our lives but also from stories on TV and social media, natural disasters happening more frequently, the world getting too hot, and all the ice melting. Additionally, we watched a global pandemic unfold over the past few years, and America seems wholly divided, with everyone fighting.

Taking all this on and constantly thinking about it will radically affect our mental health, leading to empathy fatigue and eventually depression if we don't catch it in time.

The process of empathizing is complex, fulfilling, meaningful, and rewarding, but it takes time, exercise, and lots of energy.

Empathy fatigue is a real and serious problem for Highly Sensitive People. Some of the ways it can happen are by too much exposure to other people's feelings, such as being a caregiver or working in a service role where you are exposed to the suffering of others.

It can also be caused by being in an emotionally draining environment like a toxic workplace or friends who unload all of their problems on you.

When it gets out of control, tuning into other people's feelings can be emotionally draining and a dangerous habit, as it can be challenging to identify and maintain boundaries.

It can be difficult for HSPs to set boundaries, even when necessary. As an HSP, you may feel guilty for saying no to someone in need or uncomfortable asking for help.

Doing this can lead to a sense of overwhelm, as HSPs may feel like they are carrying the world's weight on their shoulders. To stay healthy and balanced, you must learn how to set boundaries and prioritize your needs.

It's important to recognize when you feel overwhelmed and to take a step back and distance yourself from the situation.

To Combat Empathy Fatigue Set Boundaries

Some of the feelings you may have in a state of empathy fatigue can be similar to depression:

Insomnia.
Isolating yourself.
Can't concentrate.
Avoiding friends and family.
Feeling helpless or powerless.
Feeling numb or sad all the time.
Emotional and physical exhaustion.
Frequently getting angry or irritated.
Ruminating about negative things happening around you and in the world.

What you can do to help yourself:

It would benefit you if you recognized when it's necessary to ask for help and not be afraid to do so. It's also important to practice self-care and ensure you are taking care of your needs, including taking time to rest and recharge or engaging in calming and centering activities.

Fortunately, you can take steps to ease the burden of empathy fatigue. Here are some tips to help you cope with empathy fatigue:

Take Time for Yourself: It is essential to ensure you are taking care of your needs and giving yourself adequate time to rest and relax. Do something that brings you joy and helps you unwind, like walking, listening to music, or reading a book.
Connect with Others: Sharing your feelings and experiences with other people who understand can be a great way to cope with empathy fatigue. Connecting with like-minded individuals who can relate to what you're going through can be a huge relief. Talking with people who understand can provide support and validation and help you process your feelings.
Practice Self-Compassion: When dealing with empathy fatigue, it is essential to be kind to yourself. Make sure to recognize your feelings and give yourself space to process them. When you feel overwhelmed, please take a few moments to breathe and remind yourself that it is okay to feel the way you do.
Seek Professional Help: If you feel overwhelmed and struggle to cope with empathy fatigue, seeking professional help may be beneficial. A mental health professional can provide support and guidance to help you manage your emotions and develop healthy coping strategies.

Develop healthy boundaries: Learning to set boundaries is essential for highly sensitive people. It's important to recognize when you are feeling overwhelmed and be able to say “no” when necessary. Setting boundaries can help you manage your emotional energy and give yourself time to recharge. Be sure to set realistic boundaries and stick to them.

Empathy fatigue can be a complicated issue to manage. However, following these tips can better manage your emotions and ease the burden of empathy fatigue.

Overall, empathy fatigue is a common issue for highly sensitive people. It can be overwhelming and debilitating, but it is possible to manage it. By following the tips outlined above, a highly sensitive person can reduce their feelings of empathy fatigue and restore their energy and well-being.

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Puebla, Mexico: Relax at Cartesiano Hotel, the Best Wellness Retreat

Puebla, Mexico

Cartesiano Hotel is a lovely boutique hotel in the city center. With its modern and elegant interior design, Cartesiano Hotel offers a unique experience for travelers visiting the beautiful city of Puebla, Mexico.

Featuring a full-service spa, a rooftop pool with stunning views of the city, and two on-site restaurants, Cartesiano Hotel provides guests with everything they need for a truly memorable stay. Enjoy the best of Puebla while staying in a hotel that offers modern amenities and services.

Whether you are in the city for business or leisure, Cartesiano Hotel is the perfect place to relax and enjoy all that Puebla has to offer.

HSP Approved

PROS

Amazing staff
Wonderful design
Great Spa

CONS

Overpriced for the area
No bath tub in standard rooms
No robes in my room

History of Puebla

Puebla, Mexico, has a long and interesting history. Located in central Mexico, Puebla was founded in 1531 by Spanish conquistadores.

The city quickly grew and was soon the second largest in the country. Puebla was a substantial military base for the Spanish during the 16th and 17th centuries and is famous for the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

In the 18th century, Puebla became the center of the Mexican independence movement.

The city is home to some of the most famous churches and cathedrals in Mexico and several important museums. It is also the birthplace of famous Mexican dishes such as mole poblano.

Today, Puebla is one of the most important cities in Mexico. It is a major industrial and commercial center and is home to several universities.

It is a popular tourist destination for its culture, history, and proximity to Mexico City.

Style

The style of the Cartesiano Hotel in Puebla, Mexico, is a mix of traditional Mexican and contemporary design. The hotel boasts a modern exterior with traditional Mexican accents, such as Talavera tile and bold colors. The hotel has sleek, modern furniture and fixtures, with touches of brass and wood to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

The hotel also features traditional Mexican artwork, depicting the region's vibrant culture. The hotel is designed to provide guests with a luxurious and comfortable stay, creating an atmosphere of relaxation and sophistication.

It has a great mix of minimalist comfort that works well with the wellness aspect. The grounds are gorgeous and you will find lovely seating areas where you can relax in a peaceful setting.

Location & Sound

Cartesiano Hotel is located right in front of Plaza de la Concordia, which is known as one of Puebla's most important historical landmarks.

The location is perfect for getting around Puebla, Mexico, and it's a quick walk from all the must-see sights. It's an excellent location for exploring the city and taking advantage of the nearby amenities.

Puebla is known for its vibrant street markets (known as ‘tianguis'), which are in almost every neighborhood. These markets offer a variety of items, ranging from fresh produce, clothing, handicrafts, antiques, and Mexican souvenirs.

There are also a variety of street food stalls serving traditional foods such as tacos, tamales, quesadillas, and much more. The markets are usually open on Sundays and are great places to experience the local culture and find unique items.

During my stay in early December 2022, I could hear a local festival most of the day from my standard room which overlooked the outdoor swimming pool. The rest of my stay was peaceful and serene.

Service & Facilities

Cartesiano has 63 rooms which are a mixture of suites and standard rooms. The hotel has two restaurants, Comedor 360 and Salón Mezcalli, which serve delicious food!

The staff at Cartesiano was outstanding! Everyone was super helpful and helped me with directions, which restaurants to eat at, and the fact that I am gluten intolerant.

The hotel is branded as a wellness retreat and offers a lovely relaxing spa after a long day of exploring.

They offer massages and all the usual services like facials and manicures/pedicures. I had an excellent massage at the spa and would highly recommend it! Nothing beats a great massage.

You can also enjoy the hotel spa's separate wellness pool and hot tub, rated as one of the best in Puebla.

Each morning the hotel offers free wellness sessions for guests, from yoga classes to meditation, flowing movement, and sound healing.

These started early, around 7 am, so I missed them all!

Also on the property is a quiet sitting room they call the library where you can spend some time reading or meditating.

The decor includes comfortable chairs, coffee tables, soft lighting, a few pieces of artwork, plants, bookshelves, and a few books.

The atmosphere is peaceful and inviting, encouraging visitors to take a break from their daily lives and relax.

Rooms

The standard rooms are simple but elegant, with hardwood floors, white walls, high ceilings, and lots of natural light. The bed was comfortable, and there were plenty of pillows. Each room has a small balcony where you can sit out on warm nights and enjoy a glass of wine, enjoying the beautiful views of the city.

Although this hotel was aiming for five-star status, I would not put it at that level, slightly above a four-star, but with more character. I stayed in a standard room, spotlessly clean, with gorgeous linens and simple furnishings that didn't get in the way.

The bathroom in my room was large but lacked a bathtub. I find this annoying as I never think of requesting a bathtub because, in my logic, all bathrooms should have one. I take a lot of baths, and you especially need one after a long day of sightseeing; having a shower doesn't feel the same.

Also, there were no robes in the room, which again seemed odd for a wellness retreat. All in all, the room lacked a lot of amenities that would have made it a five-star hotel.

Dining

The hotel restaurants serve delicious food made from local ingredients whenever possible. Food-wise, there are two restaurants: one that serves traditional Mexican food and one that serves international dishes. Both were delicious if somewhat overpriced.

Puebla is known for its traditional cuisine—everything from mole sauce (made with chocolate) to tamales (wrapped in corn husks). The city's claim to fame is its gastronomy, so be sure not to leave without tasting some local fare!

The location makes it easy to get to some of Puebla's best restaurants and bars. There are plenty of options within walking distance, plus the restaurants outside the hotel are a lot cheaper.

Puebla, Mexico, has a lot to offer. It's the city where mole sauce was invented, so you can expect to find it on every restaurant menu. But other dishes are just as delicious and unique to this area. If you're looking for something different from your usual Mexican fare, try a local specialty like chilatole or tamales de chipilin.

Cartesiano Hotel

3 Oriente 610, Centro,

72000 Puebla, Pue.,

Mexico

Amenities

24–hour reception with multilingual staff
Complimentary Wi–Fi
On–site bar and two restaurants
24–hour room service
Outdoor swimming pool with sun terrace
Spa with indoor pool | hot tub | gym
Business centre with meeting rooms and conference facilities
Airport shuttle service
Laundry and dry–cleaning service
Car rental service

Recommend For

Wellness Trip, get away from it all
Spa Trip
Puebla Cathedral
Zocalo Square
Great Pyramid of Cholula
Fort Loreto

Planes

Mexico City International Airport is a two hour drive from Cartesiano. Puebla also has it's own regional airport which is a 40-minute drive from the hotel. The hotel can arrange transfers.

Motorcar

I don't recommend getting a rental car. Puebla is a walkable city so you only need transfers to and from the airport.

Best Time to Visit
Off-season and Shoulder-season a great times to visit. The summer months, or when the kids are off school, tend to be very busy.

Click HERE for the TripAdvisor Puebla Travel Guide

Language
Spanish & English.

Currency
Peso

Cash | Cards
Cards are accepted in most places. Puebla has a lot of street vendors so it's best to always carry cash.

Plugs
In Mexico, the power plugs are type A and B – Voltage 127. If traveling from the U.S., you won't need an adapter.

Mexico Emergency
The Nationwide Emergency Number is 911 for any medical emergency, police, or fire.

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Book Review: The Sociopath Next Door – A Chilling Look Into The Mind of a Sociopath

“The Sociopath Next Door” explores the sociopathic personality and how these individuals can “control and psychologically shatter” the lives of those around them. The author, Martha Stout, is a psychologist and clinical instructor in psychiatry at Harvard Medical School who has worked with survivors of psychological trauma for over 30 years. Well-written and informative, the book provides valuable insights into the mind of a sociopath.

When we think of sociopaths, we automatically think of serial killers, but like everything else, they fall on a scale. If serial killers are at 10, what about all those that fall between 1 to 6? They probably will not kill you, but they can do a lot of damage to your life.

These are everyday people you meet through work; they could be friends, relatives, or someone you are dating. I, being the highly sensitive person that I am believed that if you treat people with respect and kindness then that is what you get in return. There may be the odd person who's not like that but the majority have to be.

If nothing terrible has happened to you in your life, it is easy to believe you can spot them because there HAVE to be some red flags. But, no, that is not the case; a lot of the time, you don't know and only realize who they are after something terrible has happened.

Sadly I think you have to be burned by one of these individuals to truly get that people like this exist. Because, look at the world through the eyes of a highly sensitive person, it's truly hard to imagine someone who has no empathy what-so-ever.

As a person with high sensitivity, you have probably met a few of these individuals and tried to understand their motives without success. And, being the empathic person you are, you thought they were having a bad day or something along those lines and giving them the benefit of the doubt. Unfortunately, because highly sensitive people are highly empathic, they tend to become targets.

Empathy is crucial in humans and plays a massive role in our social lives. It allows us to put ourselves in someone else's shoes, understand what they are going through, and sometimes compels us to help them.

The downside of empathy is that you feel sorry for the assholes too. It is both a superpower and a weak spot. The weak spot is that they can manipulate your empathy to a high degree. While some may be obvious, and you can stop it, others are so good at what they do you won't see it coming.

A relationship with a sociopath always ends badly for the empath by being manipulated, abused, exploited, and of course, lots of gaslighting.

The Sociopath Next Door

To give some examples, look at all the people in the world that have been conned out of their life savings, married only to find the person they married is not at all what they thought, or got thrown under the bus at work for something they did not do. Look at those revenge porn websites, which can completely shatter someone's life. Or, the person who steals someone else's identity – how many fake emails or phone calls do you get these days. It seems like it's all the time.

The list goes on and on of the many ways sociopaths can shatter your life. Most people who are highly sensitive are too trusting, they want to help make the world a better place. And, while this is a lovely place from where to view the world, it's also not a safe place.

I also feel that you only truly learn anything by going through it or doing it yourself. I wonder if I had read any of these books earlier in life would they have helped me? What if they thought this in school?

A term you should become familiar with is The Dark Triad; it refers to a trio of negative, antisocial personality traits.

Narcissism is characterized by grandiosity, pride, egotism, and a lack of empathy.
Machiavellianism is characterized by manipulating and exploiting others, an absence of morality, unemotional, and a higher level of self-interest.
Psychopathy is characterized by continuous antisocial behavior, impulsivity, selfishness, and callous and unemotional traits.

I'm using the word sociopath, but it can be interchangeable with Narcissism and Machiavellianism. While each has distinct traits, they all seem to have a similar roadmap, being callous, manipulative, and doing anything to stay in control.

While sociopaths may seem charming and successful on the surface, they are master manipulators who lack empathy and emotion. You know that feeling you get from someone who seems great; everyone loves them, but something is holding you back from trusting or liking them. If, like me, you ignored that gut feeling and thought you imagined things, it ended with you finding out the hard way that your first impression was right.

After one bad episode in my life and going through that experience, I started to read more about antisocial personalities to understand what I was dealing with and to protect myself in the future. Why was I so naive and not see the red flags? Looking back, they were so easy to see but then, isn't everything in retrospect?

While sociopaths make up 4% of the population, their impact can be far-reaching and devastating. Stout describes sociopaths as charming, intelligent, and often successful individuals. They are also manipulative, callous, and lack empathy. And yet, many of them can fly under the radar due to their ability to charm and deceive those around them.

Have you ever watched a show or documentary about anything where someone was taken advantage of by someone else and left to deal with the consequences? You sit there and think, what an idiot, how could you not see that coming? It's so easy to do that with other people's lives. One thing I have learned, when you are in a situation, you cannot see things as clearly as someone else might.

The book includes real-life examples of sociopaths in action, which I always find helpful. She also provides advice on how to protect yourself from their manipulations. One important thing to understand, you can never win with any of these personality types. If you are in a situation where you must deal with a sociopath, remember the critical rule: don't engage.

That sounds simple, but it's pretty hard to practice when living it. It takes time, but the more you learn not to be reactive, the easier your life will be.

Sometimes you cannot avoid interactions with someone you believe to be a sociopath. In that case, minimize the interactions as much as you can, and give them nothing they can use. There is no advantage in arguing, reasoning, negotiating, threatening, or bantering with a sociopath – it will only result in further manipulation.

Sociopaths love to manipulate and control people; to them, it's a game. So, they live for your reactions and emotions. They love to dominate you and enjoy your helplessness. They love if they caused something terrible to happen in your life, to see you fall apart, it's entertainment to them, something any empathic person finds hard to understand. In this case, you have to block your feelings, don't try to understand the why; know it's happening and do something about it.

So, what's the trick? How do you deal with them if you can't get them entirely out of your life? You become a rock. You become the most boring person on the planet. No reactions, either positively or negatively – you don't give them anything. After some time doing this, they will try to up their game to get some reaction out of you. Again, stay neutral; eventually, they will get bored with you and move on to find their next target.

Of course, that is easier said than done, but you are halfway there in recognizing what they are doing and starting your journey to be boring. Educate yourself; there are many books out there from academia, as well as people writing about their experiences. Knowledge is power; the more you know, the more you can read people, and the better off you will be.

Another interesting book I read was “The Empathy Trap” by Tim & Jane McGregor. Here we have another triad – the Sociopath-Empath-Apath Triad.

The Sociopath-Empath-Apath Triad describes the psychological abuse by sociopaths and how it plays out. They use one or more apaths as pawns in triangulation to target the empathic person. I've seen this play out in one of my previous jobs, but I didn't click what it was until I read this book. It's mad that when you have a name for something, you seem to understand it more.

Through manipulation, lies, and all the usual tricks, they turn people around the empath against them. Generally, this is because the first person to figure out the sociopath is an empath. Once an empath gets past believing everyone is good, they can figure out quite quickly what the sociopath is doing. Now in saying that, it's not always the case, don't believe you will be able to spot all of them quickly. But, mostly you should figure them out before other people.

The main aim of this triangulation is usually to neutralize the empath so they can do whatever they want, and the apaths will always go along with it. At that point, the empath has no support system, and people won't believe what they say. I found the book very interesting and included real-life scenarios, which always help you grasp the concept a little easier.

I often wonder why we don't learn about things like this in high school. They don't teach you personal finances, how to balance a checkbook, or about antisocial behavior, two things that would help you out in life. You only delve into the topic when you've been traumatized by someone.

Takeaways from books I have read:

The Pity Play: they play the victim; they had a bad childhood, a boss, and a lousy ex-partner, and everyone is out to get them. As an empath, you will think that is wrong, but before you jump in to help, hold back and think about it; this is how they can manipulate easily through your empathy.
People who tell you too much too soon are a red flag. The second time I met one woman, she told me her brother raped her. That's a horrific story, but something held me back; I kept thinking, you don't know me; why would you share something that personal with a stranger? It was a pity play. Later I found out more about her which made me happy I had listened to my gut feeling.
Another reason they tell you too much too soon is to do a quit pro quo – you feel you have to confide in them as well (whether you realize it or not). If you do, they now have information on you and can use it against you. You would be amazed at information you think is minor that they end up using against you.
Very quickly after meeting them, you feel you have met your best friend or the person you want to spend the rest of your life with. Everything moves too quickly.
They flatter you a lot and agree with your opinions.
They are incredibly charming and persuasive. They want to control and dominate you, so they have to make you trust them first.
Gaslighting; this is a manipulation tactic to make you think what you experienced didn't happen.
They have no empathy and feel superior to others.
You get that uneasy feeling but have nothing to back it up with; it's about time you started trusting that feeling.
Focus on their behavior and ignore their words because they lie. One of the most important things to remember because they tell you what you want to hear, only pay attention to people's actions.

To put it all into perspective, I live in the San Francisco Bay Area, with a population of 3,318,000 in 2022. The current consensus by academics is that 1 in 25 people or 4% of the population has no conscience, no sense of right or wrong, no empathy, no ability to understand emotion, and no soul.

That means that there are approximately 132,720 sociopaths where I live.

Books I Recommend Reading:

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Gaslighting
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Gut Feelings
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How People Treat You
$22.95 – $28.95
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Narcissist A More Polite Term
$22.95 – $29.55
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Narcissist Free Zone
$22.95 – $29.55
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Narcissist Spelled Backwards
$23.55 – $29.55

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Travel

Hotel Bauer Palazzo: Old World Luxury in Venice

Venice, Italy

Hotel Bauer Palazzo is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World and is perfect if you're looking for a hotel in Venice with old-world luxury. Located a one-minute walk from St. Marks Square, Hotel Bauer Palazzo is central to everything you'll want to visit.

The hotel's waterfront terrace restaurant Pisis is a breathtakingly romantic place to dine, as it's located right on the Grand Canal. When you stay at Hotel Bauer Palazzo, you'll be able to experience all that Venice has to offer. You'll love the hotel's old-world atmosphere and appreciate its convenient location.

HSP Approved

PROS

Amazing Location
Romantic
Old World Charm

CONS

Slightly dated
Renovations starting shortly & hotel will be closed for a period of time.

Style & Rooms

The best way to arrive at the Bauer Palazzo is by water taxi. On the Grand Canal side of the building, you have the gorgeous Venetian Gothic architecture that is incredibly romantic. If you arrive by waterbus, this also works as the entrance is only a short walk from the drop-off spot, but you then enter through a bland modern concrete façade, and you can't help but think, oh no! We did that, and I thought we had the wrong location, but when I entered the lobby, I realized I was in the right place.

The lobby is lovely, with its old-world luxury and giant art deco chandeliers made from Murano glass. There are lots of sitting areas around the ground floor that add a nice touch of character.

I found the hotel charming and enjoyed our room; however, I would put it at a 4* level, not 5*. Most of the reviews on TripAdvisor were very positive, but some complained that everything needed to be updated, which is true. Five-star hotels usually have a lot of small extras to make your trip memorable, either fruit and chocolate in the room or high-end toiletries; everything is generally top-end. The Bauer Palazzo was a bit lacking in that aspect.

Our room was very comfortable and quite big by European standards. The bathroom was excellent, with a large bathtub, shower, and incredible water pressure!

We had a large patio attached to the room, which in theory, was terrific, but it was a bit dreary with uncomfortable furniture, and we didn't stay out there too long. The view was lovely looking over the rooftops of Venice. For some reason, I love rooftops in Italy, so it didn't bother me at all that I wasn't overlooking the Grand Canal. Our view was lovely.

The hotel is dated, but they have a full renovation starting shortly. The hotel will be closed for much of that, but it's good to check ahead of time in case they are doing renovations while you plan to stay there.

Location & Sound

The Bauer Palazzo is in one of the best locations in Venice, literally a one-minute walk to St. Mark's Square.

The hotel sits on the Grand Canal with beautiful views; you can watch the gondolas float by while sitting on the restaurant's outdoor terrace. It's incredibly romantic.

I have been fortunate when visiting Venice, but I will only stay off-season. The streets in Venice are tiny, and it's one of those cities everyone wants to see, making the high season a complete nightmare for anyone with high sensitivity.

I was there in January, and it was wonderfully quiet during this visit. The other tourists were low-key, so there was no pressure from loud people or crowds. It would be chaotic in high season since it's next to St. Mark's square.

Dining

The hotel has one restaurant and two bars, one of which, Bar Canale, has a beautiful outdoor terrace right on the Grand Canal. The breakfast was excellent, the room was lovely, and there was a large selection of food.

The rooftop restaurant was closed the entire time we were there, so check ahead of time with the hotel what will be open during your visit.

Cruise Ships

Over the past few years, there has been huge controversy about cruise ships in the Venetian lagoon, and many people who live there want them banned. To get to the current docking station, the cruise ships must go down the lagoon and past St. Mark's square.

I know many people love cruises, but seeing a giant metal ship go down the lagoon is hideous. There are so many small boats already using it that it just seems insane to me.

If you are traveling to a port city where cruise ships dock, you must check which days they are docking before booking your trip.

I booked a trip to Dubrovnik a few years ago and did not check. I planned to walk the city walls and wander around one day not realizing a cruise ship had docked. There were so many people we couldn't do anything. All restaurants and tours were booked; it was a two-hour-long wait to walk along the city's walls. Walking through the main street was challenging- you couldn't walk without bumping into someone.

I got so agitated by it all we ended up walking back to the hotel. The maddening thing was that the previous day I had booked a day trip to visit Mostar in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

If I had checked I could have switched the days and missed the cruise ship completely. In other words, plan ahead. Create your daily itinerary before you leave for your holiday.

Hotel Bauer Palazzo

San Marco 1459,

Venice, VE, 30124

Italy

Amenities

Old World Charm
Location! 1-min walk to St. Mark's Square
Pisis Restaurant overlooking the Grand Canal
Bar | Lounge
Sitting Room on the ground level
Pool | Gym | Small Spa
Free Wi-Fi
Parking

Recommend For

Romantic Luxury Break
Foodies & Wine Tasting,
History Lovers

How to Get There
& When to Go

Planes

Fly into either Marco Polo or Treviso airports. From Marco Polo, take the public ferry or a speedboat (an expensive option). From Treviso, it’s a 25-minute taxi journey or you can take the ATVO Eurobus which takes 80-mins.

Trains

Many trains go to Venice so this is an easy option. You can even take an overnight train from London or Paris to Venice! From the train station take the water bus, or book a water taxi.

Motorcar

Don't take a car to Venice, you will have to park on the mainland and take a waterbus.

Best Time to Visit
Offseason, I go really offseason – usually in Jan | Feb | March. Spring and Fall are also good but will be a lot more crowded.

Click HERE for the Expedia Venice Travel Guide

General
Information

Language
Italian, although each region has its dialect.

Currency
Euro

Cash | Cards
Most places accept credit cards but always carry cash. Shops in smaller cities, some car parks, and most parking meters only take cash. Use Visa or Mastercard with no foreign transaction fees in Italy.

Discover, Diners Club and American Express are not commonly accepted. ATMs are the best way to get cash.

Plugs
The standard voltage in Europe is 230 V; buy a travel adapter before leaving the US.

Italian Emergency
113 Italian National Polizia
115 Italian Fire Brigade
118 Health Emergencies

EU Emergency Number
Dialing 112 from any country in the European Union will connect you to emergency services, such as police, fire, and ambulance services. Dialing 112 is free; you can dial from any mobile phone, landline, or payphone.

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How to Hygge Your Home: When You’re Highly Sensitive

The world seems a bit mad right now, and reading the news makes me sad on many levels. So, all of us, especially people with high sensitivity, need to create a space where we can retreat from the world. Spend the time to make your home the inviting wonderful space you want it to be, a space where you can relax and be content.

You probably have heard about “Hygge” (pronounced “hoo-gah”), it's been all over social media for the past few years, and although it seems like another fashion trend for interior design, it's so much more.

The concept came from Denmark, where they have long, cold winters. They perfected the idea of a cozy, welcoming home, and it's not about being wealthy and having top-of-the-line furnishings. Hygge is a desire to be surrounded by what you love, what makes you feel safe, and a level of comfort that helps you to recharge quickly.

In the Oxford English Dictionary, Hygge refers to “a quality of coziness and comfortable conviviality that engenders a feeling of contentment or well-being.”

Certain types of home decor come into play when creating the “hygge” feeling in your home; think of soft and cozy blankets or a sofa with plush pillows so comfortable that you sink into it. Include natural elements like wood which give a feeling of warmth.

Unsure how to get there? Think of a cozy cabin, it's snowing outside, and you can see it fall slowly through the window. A wood fire is blazing, and you are sitting on the most comfortable chair in the world, wrapped in a very soft blanket that is beautiful to touch, and drinking hot chocolate with lots of whipped cream.

Doesn't that sound glorious? Now imagine if your whole home felt like that.

Hygge is about being mindful of the small moments in life, appreciating what you have, and finding comfort in the people and things you surround yourself with.

Hygge is Different for Everyone

For some people, Hygge could mean being surrounded by loved ones, cooking together, and chatting about their day. The most important thing is to be present and in the moment.

You'll never get back those few hours that you are with your family, so why not put everything aside, block the madness of the world, and listen? Enjoy every second.

Since this is about getting you into a sense of well-being – what do you love to be surrounded by? Do you love candles or twinkling lights? Do specific colors make you happy? What would bring you to the state of Hygge?

I love books; seeing a wall of books creates a sense of calmness. I made a reading nook with a comfy chair, a big pillow, a soft blanket, and a low table nearby for tea. I usually have books stacked up nearby that I have yet to read.

How to Hygge Your Home

When choosing decor for your home, think about texture, color, feel, and, most importantly, how all of your senses will react to the object. For me, everything should feel soft; I have so many issues with how things feel.

I don't use a top sheet in my bed. Instead, I use this insanely soft Costco blanket; it is luxurious, warm, and insanely cheap.

Add soft pillows and cozy blankets to your sitting room, and remember to keep a muted color palette.

Paint

Soft neutral colors are the most calming; my favorite is a white, blue, and gray color called Coastal Fog. Depending on how the light hits it, it looks gray, and other times it looks blue. Choose a neutral color scheme for your home.

Fireplace

Make a fire; there is nothing so lovely as having a fire. If you don't have a fireplace in your home, create one with a small tray of candles that you light all at once. It will give you that same feeling of warmth.

Light

Allow natural light to flow into your home as much as possible; a sunlit room eliminates shadows and feels more welcoming. Choose low furniture allowing more light to flow through your rooms.

Soft lighting will create a lovely atmosphere at night and make your rooms cozy. Consider adding candles or soft twinkle lights, I have both, and I particularly love this led cherry blossom tree that I added to my sitting room.

Minimalism

Being highly sensitive the less you have around you and the more organized it all is; will create a sense of calm. Clutter and being highly sensitive don't go well together.

Spa Bathroom

Whether you own your home, rent, or live with your parents, it doesn't matter; you can create your own spa experience at home. Invest in a super soft, cozy bathrobe and slippers. Buy a wooden bath tray, and choose something simple. Stick with natural materials like wood, don't buy metal.

Light candles around the bathroom. Have hot chocolate, tea, or a glass of wine, whichever makes you feel good. Listen to soft music or read by candlelight and give yourself time to simply be.

Furniture & Fabrics

Rustic and cozy is the way to go. You want your home to be inviting and lived in, not the type with only a sitting room for company and no one is allowed to move the cushions.

Choose furniture low to the ground, as this will create a more streamlined look and make your room look bigger. This will also bring in more light as there won't be any bulky furniture in the way to block it.

Go with warm, natural materials such as wood. If you can't afford to buy new, look at second-hand items you can DIY with your favorite color. I particularly love getting an antique vanity for my bedroom and painting it. It makes it unique when you create something yourself.

Clear a pathway through your home; an unobstructed walkway from one room to another creates a flow throughout the house. This brings us back to minimalism and no clutter.

What Makes You Happy?

At the end of the day, it's essential to keep life simple. Hygge is different for each of us; for highly sensitive people, it will be about appeasing our senses so that we can recharge and rejuvenate. Having a comfortable, cozy place to retreat to for an alone time.

Maybe it's about taking a walk in nature, enjoying the smells of everything around you, seeing beautiful colors, and being present in the moment. If you are happy with that, you are in a state of Hygge.

What's truly important is only to have the people you care about in your life, keep items that make you happy in your home, and only do the pastimes that make you feel good.

There will always be aspects of your life you don't like and can't control, but if you take care of the things you can control, everything will be much easier.

Good books to read if you want to learn more.

Meik Wiking founded the world's first Happiness Research Institute in 2013 in Copenhagen, Denmark, and is a New York Times and The Times Bestselling author. Meik has been called The Indiana Jones of Smiles and probably the World´s happiest man by The Times.

Besides his work at the Happiness Research Institute, he is a Research Associate for Denmark at the World Database of Happiness and a member of the policy advisory group for the Global Happiness Policy Report.

He is the author of two globally bestselling books, which have sold 2 million copies worldwide: The Little Book of Hygge and The Little Book of Lykke.

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Travel

Europe’s ETIAS Visitor Fee to Start in November 2023 to help Strengthen EU Borders

Europe

In November 2023, Europe will introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), where U.S. citizens traveling to Europe must apply for entry and pay a small visitor fee, roughly $7.50. This fee is only for adults between the ages of 18 to 70.

This fee will be for the Schengen Area, which includes most EU countries except Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Ireland, and Romania. The non-EU States in the Schengen Area include Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Bulgaria, Croatia, and Romania are currently in the process of joining.

The Schengen Area of Europe is a passport-free zone and the world's largest free travel area. All EU citizens have the freedom to travel, work and live in any country in the Schengen Area without being subject to border checks.

Why was the ETIAS Established?

The ETIAS system was put into place to improve the security of the Schengen area, primarily by requiring these visa-free travelers to obtain travel authorization and undergo various security checks before they arrive in the EU.

What does Schengen mean?

The name “Schengen” comes from a small winemaking town in Luxembourg, where the agreement was signed in 1985 by France, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands.

The U.S. has a similar system in place for non-U.S. citizens called ESTA.

What do Americans need
to go to Europe?

Requirements for U.S. citizens when applying for an ETIAS are a passport valid for three months beyond the return date to the U.S.

Applicants with dual nationality should travel to the Eurozone with the passport they used in the application. This is important as the application will be electronically linked to that passport.

How Long Can a U.S. Citizen
stay in Europe?

U.S. citizens can travel to the Schengen Area for up to 90 days every 180 days, but after November 2023, they must fill out the ETIAS application before travel.

The good thing is that the application for the ETIAS visa waiver is valid for three years and has no limit on entries.

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Home

Stagg Kettle Review: Looks Amazing but I didn’t like it

Stagg Kettle Review.

I love Scandinavian interiors, looking at photos of their homes where everything is white, rustic, minimalist, and so serene. In the kitchens, there sits a wonderfully big, antique copper kettle a lot of times.

You can imagine yourself making tea with the giant kettle, wrapping a soft blanket around yourself, settling into a gorgeous white sofa (which somehow works there and never for me), and reading something wonderful.

Well, this Stagg kettle fit that picture in my mind when I bought it. It's not an antique copper kettle because everyone advised against using them when I researched those.

Solid copper has no protective lining, and it's not the best for you when you boil water in them. Modern-day copper kettles that look excellent cost a small fortune, so I opted for something different.

HSP Approved

PROS

Sleek design, it really does look cool
Temperature programming
Precision pouring

CONS

Takes “forever” to pour into a teapot, not for tea drinkers
Expensive and does not hold a lot

Stagg Kettle Style

Also, while I love seeing old kettles on stovetops, I needed an electric one. I wanted something that would turn itself off because I put the kettle on half the time and then forgot to go back to it because I'm busy doing something else. I didn't want to go back to a whistling kettle.

The Stagg Electric Kettle is a minimalist, sleek kettle that would not be an eyesore in the kitchen. I thought this was gorgeous and then gulped at the price of $150.

I thought that was a bit steep for a kettle, but everyone seemed to love it as I read the reviews. I have had kettles for years, so I rationalized the cost as okay since I would have it for a long time.

I purchased the white kettle and loved it once I saw it in person; it's very posh. It's smaller than a regular kettle but super sleek and sexy-looking. The cord is not very long, but I keep my kettle next to an outlet, so that was not an issue but something to keep in mind.

There are two tiny buttons on the kettle base at the back, one of which allows you to change from Fahrenheit to Celsius, whichever you prefer.

The other will enable you to put a hold at a set temperature for up to 60 minutes.

If you do not use that button, it has an automatic shut-off function. After it reaches the set temperature, it will stay there for five minutes, go on standby for fifteen minutes and then shut off.

Stagg Kettle Ergonomics

The ergonomics of the Stagg kettle are superb, and it fits perfectly in your hand with a spot at the top of the handle where you rest your thumb. The handle is counterbalanced, so it's super easy to pour. The kettle gets tons of 5* reviews and is so lovely to look at – but why didn't I like it?

I did not think it through on the gooseneck part of things, pour-over coffee lovers will love the kettle, but it's super annoying for tea drinkers. While the gooseneck gives you more control over pouring than a regular kettle, it just takes forever.

If you are filling a teapot, you are pouring for what seems like five minutes before it's complete. It feels great in your hand; it looks great and is beyond annoying. I thought I would get used to it, but I just found myself getting more annoyed. I would happily grab a cheap large kettle rather than this one.

I missed the return date, so I gave it to a friend.

I purchased the Haden Highclere electric kettle, which didn't get the rave reviews of the Stagg kettle, and I have been super happy with it. It is a cool color, it's large, and it pours in seconds.

Sometimes you just have to stick with the old reliable things.

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Home Travel

8 Brilliant Ways to Document Your Travels

Document your travels – do you save all your receipts, museum tickets, show tickets, and everything else from your trips with the great intention of doing something with them when you get back? Then you put them in the bottom of a drawer to do later?

We've all been there, but the longer you leave it, the more you will forget all the small things that happened. Something that it would be lovely to read back on if only you'd written it down somewhere.

Part of the fun of traveling is putting your photos and mementos together when you return. Either in a written story form or just letting the images speak for themselves. While doing it, you get to relive all the fun and unique things you did during your trip. When planning your trip, block some weekends when you return to give yourself time to actually do it.

If you are lost on ideas of how you should put everything together, below are some fun ways you can do it, however before we get to that, here are some things to do while on your trip:

Take photos of the small stuff – what speaks to you? You will automatically take photos of the famous landmarks, but in addition to that, take pictures of everyday things. Maybe it's a cat sitting in a window that looks cute, a funky mural, or a shop owner setting up his outdoor tables and chairs. Take random pictures of everything you like; you can edit them later.

Keep everything
A creative way to document your travels is to save random items from everywhere. Maybe it's a ticket stub or postcard from the hotel where you stayed, an old brochure, map, random receipts, bus tickets, train tickets, museum brochures, everything, and anything. Again, what speaks to you or catches your eye?

All these small items together can help tell a story about what happened during your trip, things you will probably forget otherwise. I carry a small zip pouch where I put all my random stuff while traveling.

There are so many fun ways to record your trips; read through the list below and pick the one you like the most – then get creative and have fun!

Document Your Travels with 1 Second Everyday Video Diary

The result of using this app every day of your trip is brilliant. The company's slogan is – “Imagine a movie that includes every day of the rest of your life.” and it's spot on. This isn't just for when you travel either; you can use this all the time.

The creator, Cesar Kuriyama, decided to document every day of his life for a year in one-second segments. The end product was a six-minute video that became so popular he launched a Kickstarter campaign to help him develop an app so others could do the same. It's a beautiful way to capture moments on video of your travels and life.

Imagine doing this for your child or new puppy – how amazing it would be to watch at the end of one year?

Write a Journal

Writing down your experiences is a great way to process them. By writing about the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings you experience during your trip, you can capture a moment in time that you may forget about after a few years.

The best way to write a travel journal is to do it at the end of each day if you are not too tired. Or, at the very least, jot down some notes which you can elaborate on at a later date. It helps you keep track of what happened and on which day. You would be amazed after a whirlwind trip, trying to remember when something happened. Was that on Thursday or Friday?

It would even be fun to start your journal when you begin to prep for your trip, write notes on looking for hotels, or trying to decide which day trips you should go on. Write down your thoughts and problems as they arise; that way, you capture the entire process from beginning to end. If you don't feel you are a great writer, do it anyway, it doesn't matter; these notes are for you, for your memories.

Write Letters | Emails to Yourself

A friend of mine created an email address specifically for her travels. She has folders for each trip she has taken, and she uses this email address for all booking purposes, so all her confirmations are included in the folders.

At the end of each day, she writes an email detailing everything she did that day and includes some photos she took. She puts the date and where she was visiting in the subject line. She even sends emails for travel days when she's at the airport. It's a beautiful, unusual way to capture everything.

My only concern is to imagine if something happened, the account was deleted, and you lost everything. If you choose this option, maybe download it all to a backup drive. That goes for the other online options below.

Document Your Travels
with Day One Journal

Day One is a top-rated journaling app, and it's completely private, cross-platform, and designed never to fill up. It's beautiful, easy to use, and even won the Apple Design Awards and Mac App of the Year.

This app is for everyday journaling; you can even record entries on your Apple Watch, which would be super helpful while traveling. It includes automatic geotags that add location, date, time, and weather to your videos, audio, pictures, and text.

It's an extra level of depth; you don't need to worry about recording yourself. You can also create folders where you can document your travels or anything you wish to keep separate.

Basic is free, but if you upgrade to premium, which is only $2.92 a month, you have unlimited photo storage, journal entries, cloud-based storage, audio recording, and a 25% off book printing discount.

If this doesn't appeal to you, there are tons of note-taking apps to look at, for example – OneNote, Evernote, Notion, Bear, Notability, and the list goes on.

Hilarious Photo Series

One of my favorite movies is Amélie, a 2001 French-language romantic comedy. In the movie, her father is always gardening and won't leave his house (after his wife passed away). She keeps trying to get him to travel as it is something he has always wanted to do, but he refuses.

So, she steals his garden gnome and has her air hostess friend take it with her on her trips. Her friend photographs the gnome in front of famous landmarks, then sends the images back to Amelie's confused father by mail.

The concept of the traveling gnome dates back to the 1970s when Henry Sunderland photographed his garden gnomes, which he named Harry and Charlie, while traveling around Antarctica. You can read about that on Wikipedia.

Old-Fashioned Scrapbook

If you prefer to go old school, why not get creative and make a scrapbook for each trip? You get to create the layout of each page and how you want everything to appear and tell your travel story precisely the way you want.

Scrapbooking is its own world today; you have many options to choose from when you buy your book and supplies. Besides the actual book, you can buy stickers, chipboard frames, embellishments, patterned paper as a background, page protectors, cardstock, stamps & inks, corner rounders, and special scissors that can create shapes. You should find everything you need either on Amazon, Etsy, or Michaels.

Printed Photo Book

Similar to creating a scrapbook, you can showcase your travel memories in a photo book to print. Some options have preset templates, and others will allow you to make each page as you would like. Some will allow you to upload from social media, which is wonderful if that was where you documented everything.

For all the random things you collected as you traveled, take photos of what you would like to include in the book, and once you get the book, you can keep the originals in an envelope at the back of it.

Travel Keepsake Box

If you dislike writing and all the above, a simple way to keep your memories safe is to buy a keepsake box and put all the random things you brought home into it.

Print out your travel confirmations and put everything into the box. You can find some lovely ones on Etsy, either a wooden box with your name and where you travel engraved on it, or you can go to the local store and buy a lovely gift box to use instead.

Try to write a few notes to include to capture the things that the photos and mementos do not.

Conclusion

The ways you can document your travels are endless and provides a way to record memories that will last forever. You can also use these ideas as inspiration and create your unique way of capturing the joys you experienced abroad.

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Lifestyle

29 Great Quotes for Highly Sensitive People

Great Quotes for Highly Sensitive People – surround yourself with positivity.

Some days you need a little boost to help you stay motivated and keep your thoughts positive, and the more I surround myself with positive people and experiences, the better life is.

The saying “we are what we think” is so true. Each morning, take a few minutes for yourself; be intentional with your thoughts, and get your day off to a great start.

Below are some beautiful quotes that I love that help me stay grounded, humble, and motivated to move forward.

Get a free download of these printable quotes at the end of the page. The download includes:

Single page with one quote on a letter-size page.
Collage Format – two different collage options with multiple quotes on each page.

Print out your favorites and put them around your desk or a place where you will see them first thing in the morning, and make it a point to read one or two before you start your day.

Get Organized

Notebook or App

Organization Day

Stay Focused

The Art of Better Time Management

Calendars

Make it a Habit

To Recap:

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A Room Without Books

Always Forgive Your Enemies

Be Happy

Be Kind

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Top Layers

Bottom Layers

How Many to Pack

How to Get There & When to Go

General Information

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Humor in the Wild

Comedy Wildlife Photography Award Winner for 2022

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Be Happy

Let Me Overthink This

Let's Be Alone Together

Me at a Party

My Intuition Told Me

Not Today

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Increased Awareness

Intuitive

Creative Thinking

The Well-Being of Others.

Deep Inner Lives.

Empathetic & Compassionate.

Good Listeners.

Emotional Intelligence.

How to Stay Positive

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A Room Without Books

Always Forgive Your Enemies

Be Happy

Be Kind

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To Combat Empathy Fatigue Set Boundaries

What you can do to help yourself:

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Gaslighting

Gut Feelings

How People Treat You

Narcissist A More Polite Term

Narcissist Free Zone

Narcissist Spelled Backwards

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PROS

CONS

History of Puebla

Style

Location & Sound

Service & Facilities

Rooms

Dining

Cartesiano Hotel

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Takeaways from books I have read:

Books I Recommend Reading:

How to Get There
& When to Go

General
Information

How to Get There
& When to Go

General
Information

What do Americans need
to go to Europe?

How Long Can a U.S. Citizen
stay in Europe?