Category: Wellbeing Tips

Follow these three simple tips to make Healthy Supermarket Choices.

If you are trying to follow a healthy diet like me, a trip to the supermarket can be frustrating. Even though in 2023, the shelves have dramatically changed and now feature the inclusion of many organic and plant-based options, we still tread carefully as many of these are highly processed and not necessarily healthy. These ready-made plant-based “meat” substitutes are often not the most healthy supermarket choices.

And for the record, this article is not purely aimed at Vegetarians and Vegans. Lean meat and fish in your diet when consumed in a balanced diet can be very healthy.

Stick to the Perimeter

Most nutritious food choices high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber are located in the perimeter of the supermarket. This is where you will find fruits, vegetables, and lean cuts of meat. It is in the center aisles that we find the majority of the highly processed and packaged foods that are not ideal for our health. Make most of your healthy supermarket choices outside of the center isles. Imagine you are one of our chefs.

Healthy Supermarket Choices are based in part by Looking at the Ingredients.

While some people do actively look at the nutrition facts labels for fat content, carbs, and sugars on specific products, they sometimes forget to look at the actual ingredients that make up that product. Aim for food product choices that have five or less ingredients. If you see an ingredient list that looks like a page out of a novel it’s best to leave it and make an alternate choice.

Shop on a Full Stomach

It’s important that when we are doing our shopping that we don’t have an empty stomach and are craving something to eat. These are the times when you may find yourself putting less than ideal food choices into your trolley or cart. Those crisps look extra good, the chocolate cake is staring you in the face, and you are looking to grab everything and anything to eat to satisfy your hunger. Try and have a significant meal before your shopping or at the very least a snack to keep your hunger at bay.

So next time you are in the supermarket see if you can follow these three simple tips to ensure that you are making good healthy supermarket choices.

Drinking enough Water

Water is such a vital component to everyone’s health and fitness. You can go weeks without food but you will only last a few days without water. So what does water exactly do for us and am I drinking enough water.

It has many functions throughout the body, and every cell in the human body requires it. Some of the functions include the regulation of body temperature, protection of the body’s internal organs, as well as being a key component in digestion. Almost every system in your body requires water to function correctly and you need to know that you are drinking enough water every day.

Drinking enough water to avoid Dehydration

What are the signs you are dehydrated? Well if you find yourself very thirsty you are likely in a mild stage of dehydration. Symptoms of mild to moderate dehydration include dry mouth, thirst, dry skin, headache, and dizziness or being lightheaded.

Severe dehydration can be life threatening and medical attention should be an immediate priority. If you are not drinking enough water, you may develop symptoms of severe dehydration. These might include extreme thirst, confusion, low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, rapid breathing, and unconsciousness.

Calculate how much water you need.

How much water should you be drinking? I want to know I am drinking enough water so I need guidance. A good rule of thumb is to aim for ½ of your bodyweight (lbs.) in ounces. For example if I weigh 200 pounds, my daily intake for the day should be around 100 oz. of water. A positive indicator that you are well hydrated is the color of your urine. When you visit the restroom your urine should be mostly clear and very light yellow. If you notice a more dark yellow color chances are you are slightly dehydrated.

How about Exercise?

What about exercise? If you are an active person and find yourself doing an abundance of physical activity your water requirements may be more depending on how much you sweat.

An easy tool that you can use is an ordinary weight scale to measure your fluid loss. Here’s how. Weigh yourself before you begin to exercise and immediately after. For example, if I weigh 200 pounds before I begin my exercise and I weigh 198 pounds immediately afterwards I have lost 2 pounds of fluid that needs to be replaced. I did not lose fat or muscle during this time but water is the reason why my weight has dropped. So if we do a little simple math, there are 16 oz. in one pound, and if I lost 2 pounds that means I will need 32 oz. (16 oz. X 2) of fluid to return back to my normal hydration levels.

Optimum Water Intake

Water is an extremely important piece to keeping your body operating at its optimal level. So for those who neglect their daily water intake, let’s grab those bottles and fill them up! You may be surprised with the difference in the way you feel and how your fitness performance may improve.

Saint Lucia, with its lush landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture, is a Caribbean gem that beckons travellers from around the world. While it’s known for its luxurious resorts and idyllic beaches, visiting Saint Lucia doesn’t have to break the bank. With careful planning and some savvy strategies, you can explore this tropical paradise without emptying your wallet.

1. Plan Ahead and Be Flexible

The key to saving money on your Saint Lucia trip starts with thorough planning. Research and book your accommodations, flights, and activities well in advance. This way, you’ll have more time to compare prices, take advantage of early booking discounts, and secure the best deals. Additionally, consider being flexible with your travel dates. Saint Lucia’s prices can vary significantly depending on the time of year. Travelling during the off-peak season, typically from May to mid-December, can yield substantial savings compared to the peak tourist season.

2. Hunt for Affordable Flights

Finding budget-friendly flights to Saint Lucia is crucial for trimming your travel expenses. Here are some tips to help you find affordable airfare:

• Use Fare Comparison Websites: Utilise flight comparison websites like Skyscanner, Google Flights, or Kayak to compare prices from different airlines and booking platforms. Set up fare alerts to monitor price fluctuations and snag deals when they appear.
• Consider Nearby Airports: Be flexible with your departure and arrival airports. Sometimes, flying into or out of nearby airports can result in significant savings. For Saint Lucia, you might explore options like Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU).
• Book Mid-Week Flights: Airlines tend to offer lower fares on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. If your travel dates allow, aim to book flights during these mid-week days for potential savings.

3. Choose Affordable Accommodations

Boutique Resort accommodations like StolenTime, although they may seem more expensive up front, can actually help travellers save money in various ways. Firstly, resorts often bundle services and amenities into their package prices, which can provide excellent value. Many resorts include meals, activities, and entertainment in the overall cost, eliminating the need to spend extra money on dining out and entertainment options. This all-inclusive approach can result in significant savings, especially for families and couples looking to enjoy a variety of experiences without constantly reaching for their wallets.

4. Embrace Budget-Friendly Activities

While Saint Lucia offers a wide array of activities and attractions, not all of them come with a hefty price tag. Here are some budget-friendly ways to explore the island:

• Hike the Pitons: Hiking the iconic Pitons—Gros Piton and Petit Piton—offers breathtaking views. Ensure you’re prepared with appropriate footwear, water, and sunscreen.
• Consider Nearby Airports: Be flexible with your departure and arrival airports. Sometimes, flying into or out of nearby airports can result in significant savings. For Saint Lucia, you might explore options like Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU).
• Relax on Public Beaches: Saint Lucia boasts several public beaches where you can sunbathe, swim, and enjoy the Caribbean waters without any entrance fees.
• Explore Local Markets: Peruse local markets like Castries Market, where you can find handmade crafts, spices, and fresh produce. It’s an excellent opportunity for affordable souvenirs and cultural immersion.
• Take Advantage of Free Events: Check the local event calendar for free cultural events, festivals, and performances happening during your stay.

5. Use Public Transportation

Renting a car in Saint Lucia can be expensive, and driving on the island’s winding roads can be challenging for some visitors. Consider using public transportation as a cost-effective alternative. Saint Lucia has a network of buses that can take you to various parts of the island, providing a more budget-friendly way to explore.

6. Travel Light and Avoid Excess Baggage Fees

To avoid unexpected fees at the airport, pack efficiently and within the weight limits allowed by your airline. Excess baggage fees can add up quickly and put a dent in your travel budget. Be mindful of the weight of your luggage and consider packing multi-purpose clothing items to reduce the number of outfits you need.

7. Exchange Currency Wisely

When exchanging currency, be cautious of unfavourable exchange rates and fees at airports and currency exchange kiosks. It’s often more cost-effective to withdraw cash in the local currency from ATMs or use credit cards that offer favourable exchange rates. Check with your bank regarding foreign transaction fees to minimise additional charges.

8. Stay Hydrated and Use Reusable Bottles

The West Indian sun can be a different experience to many, and purchasing bottled water throughout your trip can become expensive. Reduce costs and help the environment by bringing a reusable water bottle and filling it up with potable water from reliable sources, such as your accommodations or public fountains.

9. Take Advantage of Free Wi-Fi

To stay connected and avoid international roaming charges, utilise free Wi-Fi available at many hotels, restaurants, and cafés in Saint Lucia. Make use of messaging apps and Wi-Fi calling to stay in touch with loved ones without incurring additional costs.

10. Be Cautious with Souvenir Shopping

While it’s tempting to bring home souvenirs from your trip, be mindful of overspending. Set a budget for souvenir shopping and prioritise items that have sentimental value or cultural significance. Look for local artisans and markets where you can find unique and reasonably priced keepsakes.

11. Seek Local Advice

Engage with locals and fellow travellers to gather insider tips on budget-friendly activities, dining options, and hidden gems. Locals often know the best spots to experience the authentic culture of Saint Lucia without the tourist price tag.

Travelling to Saint Lucia on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. By planning ahead, making informed choices, and embracing affordable experiences, you can explore this West Indian paradise without compromising your finances. Whether you’re hiking the Pitons, savouring local cuisine, or relaxing on the island’s pristine beaches, Saint Lucia has plenty to offer budget-conscious travellers who seek adventure, culture, and natural beauty without the hefty price tag. So, pack your bags, apply these money-saving strategies, and get ready to create unforgettable memories while keeping your wallet happy in Saint Lucia.

International Friendship Day, also known as World Friendship Day, is celebrated annually on July 30th.

The day promotes the importance of friendship and reinforces the idea that friendship knows no boundaries or barriers. It is a time to celebrate the bonds we share with friends and to appreciate their presence in our lives.

This is actually fundamental to the ideas that drive StolenTime and its sister resort The BodyHoliday. Inspiring camaraderie, is what we try to do, and its no accident that many lasting friendships are made at both resorts.

The idea of International Friendship Day was first proposed by the World Friendship Crusade, an organization founded in 1958. The United Nations officially recognized and declared the day in 2011 with the aim of fostering peace and harmony among individuals, communities, and nations.

On this day, people often express their love and gratitude towards their friends by exchanging gifts, spending quality time together, or simply reaching out to reconnect. It serves as a reminder to cherish and nurture our friendships, as they play a significant role in our happiness and well-being.

International Friendship Day emphasizes the values of trust, support, and understanding that friendship brings. It encourages us to be more accepting and inclusive, promoting a sense of unity and cooperation among diverse cultures and backgrounds.

So, take this opportunity to appreciate and celebrate your friendships, and spread the message of love, kindness, and solidarity that International Friendship Day represents.

With so many uncertainties in the world, Solo travelling has become challenging to pursue but more desired by individuals because of the pressure of everyday life. All and sundry, there is an increase in people searching for places of isolation to unwind and reconnect with themselves.

The reasons why solo travel is incredibly beneficial are endless but some of the main advantages are that it broadens our horizons, plunges us out of our comfort zone, and provides a great opportunity to meet new people and create new memories. The idea of travelling alone may be a daunting one at first but once you’ve decided to go for it, it can be one of the most exciting experiences you’ll have. With that, here are a few more reasons why you should travel solo.

1. Travelling alone enables you to understand yourself more profoundly.

Travelling alone requires you to make your own decisions and closely examine how you are feeling in the moment. This means learning more about yourself while travelling without the opinions, advice or feedback of others. You will understand what you’re comfortable with, what you’re not and what you really want to do when the choice is yours. It may sound cliche, but there is no doubt that solo travel is a journey of self-discovery.

2. Travelling alone is cheaper

Travelling with children and family will cost you a lot more than travelling alone. You can’t buy one ice cream cone and share it among 4 people. Singles vacations are cost-effective because you get to decide what your budget is and how you spend it. You can choose whether you just want to grab a quick bite on the go for a day or treat yourself to a delicious meal for one. You can choose days to do less to save money for travelling later. It’s also much cheaper to look for single-person accommodation, as in most cases all you need is a bed.

3. You are responsible for making the decisions

Whether you’re travelling as a pair or in a group, it is natural that people may want to do the same thing as you and that can easily bring assurance and comfort. However, when travelling alone, what you want to do is your choice, not anyone else’s. So you have to become very mature with decision-making, trust your intuition and use advice from
trustworthy sources.

Additionally, this will improve your post travelling skills as your decision-making skills would vastly improve. For example, you would know the dangers of some street-side vendors as opposed to a novice.

4. With solo travel, you can do what you want, when you want

Another particular advantage of being in charge of decision-making while travelling is that you can do whatever you want, whenever you want. When travelling with a group or family, everyone’s needs and desires must be taken into consideration, which can often lead to a lot of compromises. That means you can eat at your favourite restaurant, get up as early or as late as you like, and even spend the day at the beach when you’re tired.

5. Travelling alone makes it easier to make friends

Undoubtedly, one of the biggest benefits of travelling alone is that you get to interact with far more people than you would if you were with others. The idea of starting a conversation with a stranger sounds a little daunting, but within hours of your trip, you’ll find it’s a lot easier than you thought. If you are keen to chat and get along, you might even join a group for part of your trip. You never know, this could happen to you.

6. You can easily become multilingual

If you’re travelling as part of a group, you don’t necessarily have to try to learn the native language of the country you are travelling to as you can chat with fellow travellers as you
please. However, as a solo traveller, there are many situations where you have to communicate with people and that can put us in a position to learn at least the basics. This may seem difficult at first, but over time you will begin to understand strange words and phrases in another language, often enough to indicate their meaning. If you travel long enough, you might be able to piece together a sentence or two!

7. It’s great for your well-being

Lastly, what we believe is the best benefit of travelling and spending time alone, is that it is excellent for your mental well-being. So, combining these is a match made in heaven.
After all, sometimes there isn’t anything better than escaping your normal life and friends for a bit. Research shows that travelling alone is a particularly good thing to do in terms of your mental health as it both gets your endorphins flowing, making you a happier person and helps reduce stress and depression.

Solo vacations are becoming very attractive these days as more and more people find joy in exotic and personal new experiences, creating something wholly unique. Of course, one of the greatest joys of travelling solo is meeting other like-minded souls and sharing stories with new people, or at least those who haven’t sat through your narrations 17 times. With that in mind, the healthy wellness pioneers at luxury St. Lucian resort StolenTime by Rendezvous have something special in store for independent travellers this summer. From July 10th to August 20th, solo travellers are invited to experience entertainment and activities with Solo and Fitness travellers in mind-from hosted communal tables, group hikes, fitness and arts/craft experiences to weekly included sunset cruises!

With special rates for guests during Summer solos, as it’s also known, it is a warm welcome respite for solo traveller holidays, providing a chance for solo travellers to come together and rejuvenate in a beautiful West Indian Environment.

Highlights of StolenTime Solos, which is open to guests staying in Single Garden Rooms and single-occupancy in a double room include:

• Every Evening Hosted Communal Tables for Solo Travellers
• Weekly Solos Cocktail Reception
• Weekly Sunset Cruise for Solo Travellers
• Weekly Beach Fete with Live Music
• Weekly Art and Craft Classes
• Weekly Market Walk
• Weekly Cooking Class
• Daily Group Yoga
• Spinning Classes
• Cycling Tour every weekend
• Mixology Class – twice a week
• BeachFit – 5 days per week