mdolla: 08/31/17

Thursday, August 31, 2017

10 Best Luggage: Smartest Luggage for Carefree Travel

Luggage is the most troublesome thing we need to carry with us during travel. It can be heavy, difficult to organize stuff inside, and worst of all… it can be lost or stolen.

Fortunately, with recent technology advancements, luggage is not just for putting our stuff in anymore. As you’ll see from the 10 best luggage that we’ve handpicked, there are all kinds of options and features to help you have a carefree and enjoyable trip.

1. Néit Collapsible Suitcase

Néit’s suitcase folds flat for easy storage when it’s empty. A wonderful idea for sure. The polycarbonate/aircraft-grade aluminum shell folds down to just three inches – and even has a carabiner clip so it can hang in a closet. The 360-degree removable wheels are yet another handy, easy-stash feature.

Néit Collapsible Suitcase, $325

2. Raden A22 Carry-On Luggage

This high-tech luggage features two external USB posts, ensuring that your smartphone won’t run out of power during your travels. Another useful feature is the weight-sensing handle. You just need to lift the luggage, and the weight is displayed on the Raden app. There is also a location-tracking function and allows you to track your suitcase’s current location.

Raden A22 Carry-On Luggage, $295

3. TraxPack Single Carry-On

Struggle with taking luggage up and down stairs? If yes, take a look at the TraxPack single carry-on. The manufacturer claims it takes the “lug” out of luggage! It does that by using an innovative tilting handle and a track system that makes it easy to drag the case up and down stairs.

The TraxPack also features a GPS tracker and a combination lock with TSA access.

TraxPack Single Carry-On, $200

4. Modobag Rideable Luggage

It’s a rideable suitcase.This funky item has a range of about eight miles, and its battery power is intentionally set just under the FAA’s 100 watt hour limit so that travelers can take the bag on planes. The manufacturer claims the bag can charge up to 80% capacity in 15 minutes. So, if you want to make your airport visits as quick and easy as possible – then this rideable luggage could be just the thing for you.

Modobag Rideable Luggage, $1295

5. 4 Set Packing Cubes, Travel Luggage Packing Organizers with Laundry Bag

These packing cubes are a great way to keep organized for family breaks, business travel, backpacking, camping, hiking, road trips and cruises (to name just a few!). Each cube has a mesh top panel for easy identification of contents and ventilation. And despite there being four cubes, some people choose to just take one cube as a carry-on item, helping to reduce weight in their checked-in luggage.

4 Set Packing Cubes,Travel Luggage Packing Organizers with Laundry Bag, $19.99

6. G-RO 22” International Expandable Carry-On Luggage

G-RO is the perfect companion for the frequent traveler who avoids checking bags and dreams of traveling only with a carry-on. G-RO’s unique design counterbalances the weight of additional bags and makes the total package feel lighter as you roll.

The G-RO features: Tough terrain wheels, telescoping handle, USB charging station, waterproof bottom, expansion zipper and impact-resistant panels.

G-RO 22” International Expandable Carry-On Luggage, $449

7. Bluesmart One – Smart Luggage: GPS, Remote Locking, Battery Charger

Bluesmart One has some smart features including a battery with two USB charging ports that can charge your devices up to six times over. There’s also a 3G/GPS tracking function that allows you to locate your suitcase anywhere in the world.

There’s also the built-in scale in the suitcase’s handle that allows you to weigh it through the app. And finally, a remote digital lock which can be locked/unlocked via your smartphone.

Bluesmart One – Smart Luggage: GPS, Remote Locking, Battery Charger, $250

8. Delsey Luggage Helium Aero International Carry On Expandable Spinner Trolley

This sleek piece of luggage features a large easy-access front compartment with an integrated padded sleeve for up to a 15.6-inch laptop, and two zippered mesh pockets for computer accessories, toiletries, or any last minute items such as tickets, passports or books.

The double spinner wheels assure exceptional maneuvrability and keep zero weight on your arm. The case is made from 100% polycarbonate, which gives the case its lightweight and durable properties.

Delsey Luggage Helium Aero International Carry On Expandable Spinner Trolley, $114

9. HAUPTSTADTKOFFER Luggages Sets Glossy Suitcase Sets Hardside Spinner Trolley Expandable

The Famous German brand HAUPTSTADTKOFFER has designed a great-looking set of cases. And it’s not just an aesthetically-pleasing set of cases, there is also a neat space-saving feature which means that the smaller cases can be stored inside the larger ones.

The cases also feature TSA combination locks with re-settable codes for secure travel to the USA.

HAUPTSTADTKOFFER Luggages Sets Glossy Suitcase Sets Hardside Spinner Trolley Expandable, $200

10. Traveler’s Choice Luggage Toronto Three Piece Hardside Spinner Luggage

If you’re looking for strong and sturdy cases, this three-piece set could be a good match for you.

They are constructed of ABS hard shell with a scratch-resistant finish, and feature a telescopic handle system with push button locking for easy maneuvrability. The cases are also fully lined, and have multi-use organizational pockets for simple packing.

Traveler’s Choice Luggage Toronto Three Piece Hardside Spinner Luggage, $159

We hope the above list of smart luggage will be useful to you. And of course, we wish you a safe and happy trip!

The post 10 Best Luggage: Smartest Luggage for Carefree Travel appeared first on Lifehack.

from Lifehack http://ift.tt/2vwDx6t

When and How to Make Stress Good for Your Body and Mind

Today, more than ever, we are experiencing record levels of stress at work, home and in our everyday lives.

We are bombarded with messages from the media telling us that, as a society, we are more stressed than ever before. Sitting in commuter traffic is making your blood levels rise. Thinking about your credit card debt makes you break out in a sweat. The state of the economy has you concerned, and you’re anxious about losing your job/ partner, health or any other important thing in your life.

What’s more, we have become conditioned to think that stress is a bad thing, that’s it’s harmful to us and toxic for our health. And it is true. While the ‘fight or flight’ mode is a physiological response that can save our lives, being in a state of constant stress, where your adrenal levels are raised can lead to high blood pressure, weight gain and eventually wear and tear on your organs.

When you’re chronically stressed you’re more likely to experience irritability, anxiety, depression, headaches and insomnia. But what if I told you that not all stress is created equal, and certain forms of stress can actually be very beneficial for you?

The Three Levels of Stress

According to Professor Bruce McEwen’s article in Aeon, there are three levels of stress:

‘Good stress’ involves taking a chance on something one wants, like interviewing for a job or school, or giving a talk before strangers, and feeling rewarded when successful.
‘Tolerable stress’ means that something bad happens, like losing a job or a loved one, but we have the personal resources and support systems to weather the storm.
‘Toxic stress’ is something so bad that we don’t have the personal resources or support systems to navigate it, something that could plunge us into mental or physical ill health and throw us for a loop.

So how do you handle your own levels of stress and use them as a force for good, or better yet avoid the ‘toxic’ stress and welcome in more ‘good stress’? Most people have heard of the “fight or flight” response I mentioned above, a vital part of our nervous system, the way in which the body reacts to stress or danger. Many, however, have never heard of the “rest and digest” response, where the nervous system activates the more tranquil functions of the body; those that help us maintain a healthy, long-term balance.

Using Stress for Positive Good

While a little bit of stress can help motivate you to achieve things like hitting a deadline for an important project, and bungy jumping off a bridge can raise your adrenal levels through the roof and make you feel on a high afterwards, the less time we spend in this mode, the better. Although it makes us alert and better able to respond to the challenges ahead, it takes a huge toll on our bodies after a while and can lead to adrenal fatigue or burnout.

I came close to having a mild form of burnout in 2013 when I was self publishing my book, The Suitcase Entrepreneur. At first it was exciting to work on the launch of my first ever book that I’d worked so hard to write. I used a positive stress to achieve so much and be ridiculously productive. I felt on a high and in flow. As time wore on, I was juggling so many facets of publishing the book that I simply couldn’t switch off. I was working really long days and forgoing exercise and time out just to make this thing a bestseller. As a result, mid way through my book tour, I realized I was only getting a few hours sleep a night, I wasn’t handling the project as well as I could have, and I certainly wasn’t enjoying or laughing as much as I should have been.

Once I recognized this and started to take more time off, get plenty of fresh air and exercise and set boundaries, I felt better. But my body took months to recover, and for some people it can take years. So anything we can do to keep ourselves in the “rest and digest” mode as much as possible is worth the effort, since our long-term health may depend on it!

Three Practical Ways to Reduce Stress Today

The best way to stay on top of your game and feel less stressed is to learn what truly makes you feel relaxed. For you this may mean spending time on a hobby you love like building train sets or gardening. Or it might be hanging out with your favourite friends, going on a bike ride or getting out into nature.

I personally love starting the day with by writing down three things I’m grateful for and easing into 15-30 minutes of yoga which makes me feel like a million dollars. Throughout the day I make sure to take lots of breaks – cuddling and playing with my puppy, going on a spontaneous walk in nature, doing a gym workout or relaxing with a book.

Whatever method you choose has to be one you enjoy. To help you out, here are three ways to ensure you reduce stress in your life on a daily basis.

1. Free Your Mind

There’s no better time than now to start meditating, if you’re not already. Even five minutes a day can make a world of difference. There are all sorts of meditation including walking, guided, visualization and chanting meditations to suit your needs.

I like the Insights Timer app for offering you up guided meditations from one minute to several hours, or the choice to just set a timer that plays a gong when you’re done with breathing and focusing on the present moment.

Or simply mind your mindfulness – practice the art of being aware of the present moment.^[1] It sounds so simple yet is much harder (initially) do to than you may think. But it can melt away stress by getting you to focus on the present moment, and just soak in how lucky you are to be alive, and all the beauty that surrounds you that you may be oblivious to.

Trust me it’s there. Put down your pen, switch off your mobile and look up from your computer screen and just observe. And breathe.

I personally love Dr Libby’s advice on doing 20 deep abdominal breaths each day for instant relaxation (around 3pm is a great time to re-energize through this insanely simple technique). Want to learn more? Read 8 Mindsets Which Prevent Success And Happiness

2. Move Your Body

Rather than getting all pent up and stressed out, release that toxic energy with exercise. Even a brisk walk can help, especially after a frustrating phone call or meeting. Walking not only deepens breathing but also helps relieve muscle tension.

It might be that techniques like yoga or tai chi help you more. These combine fluid movements with deep breathing and mental focus, all of which can induce calm.

Or you can head off to crossfit, jump on your bike, dance around your kitchen like crazy or run after your kids and play with them. All of this will pump oxygen through your veins, and produce oxytocin – commonly known as the love drug, whilst reducing your stress levels.

3. Get Social

I am not talking about jumping on social media here. I mean calling or meeting up with your friends, family, spouses, co-workers and mentors.

Anyone who brings you joy, motivates you, nurtures and supports you is going to help increase your longevity. Close relationships with family and friends gives you the emotional support to sustain you, especially at times of chronic stress.

Take a Deep Breath

At the end of the day, when it all feels like too much, take a few DEEP breaths and no matter how hard it is, state one thing you’re grateful for right now.

You’ll be surprised how diverting attention away from the negative, to the positive can instantly shift your stress levels and put life in perspective.

Reference

[1]

Natalie Sisson: Mind Your Mindfulness

The post When and How to Make Stress Good for Your Body and Mind appeared first on Lifehack.

from Lifehack http://ift.tt/2wrtPPI

Beautiful Geometric Paper Designs by Zahra AmmarTop-KAWKAB... crss

Beautiful Geometric Paper Designs by Zahra Ammar

Top-KAWKAB (constellation). The stars are so faraway glimmering in their perfect brilliant light that we sometimes forget that they are in a constant flux. Inspired by them and with geometric designs, this is a deconstructed symmetrical piece. Completely made out of paper, it is 30" by 20". Facebook

Instagram-

Zahra Ammar Designs

California-based Pakistani paper artist with a love of paper, the written word and meandering outdoors. With a background in Economics and Finance and English, she passionately doodles on any surface, weaves threads and is in love with paper and food. She loves the versatility and form that paper has to offer. In her own way, her expressions are cut and folded into her artwork.

Thank you for your submission! Submit here

crss