Winter In Hereford For The Family
Hereford is a city that hides many treasures. Winter in Hereford is a magical time due to its relative isolation out towards the Welsh border. It also has an abundance of character and wealth that has grown over the centuries. This has given the city a beautiful structure of architecture. There are glimmers of revival and a unique hidden beauty of some of its streets.
With the colder weather beginning to take root, it can be difficult to know what to do on the weekends with the kids or even as the holiday period approaches. As the days getting shorter and the nights somewhat longer, you may be looking for things to do to keep the kids entertained. To help you out we have outlined 3 events you may be interested to attend in Hereford this winter.
The Winter Bazaar at The Green Dragon
On Friday 23rd and Saturday the 24th November 2018, you can enjoy two days of shopping from a choice of Herefordshire’s finest producers, traders, artisans and more as we celebrate the wealth of our small businesses. With Free Entry included, it is the perfect opportunity for you to kick your Christmas shopping off in style. You would have the opportunity to pick up the finest and possibly most rare gifts for your family and friends.
The Bazaar will be on between 10am to 6pm on both days you can have the opportunity to have enough time to fully go around the whole event and grab your hands on some novelties. Don’t worry about food and drink as these will be available in The Garrick Lounge between 9am-5pm so you can be sure that you will be well watered and fed.
Winter Wonderland at Ralph Court Gardens
Ralph Court Gardens will be getting a complete festive makeover as it is being transformed into this year’s Christmas Winter Wonderland. The musical fountain will be dancing to Christmas songs and the beautiful light displays and snow flurries putting you in the festive mood. This event is perfect for families especially with young children as they can listen to a Christmas story by Boris the bear and hear the singing reindeer too.
If you are lucky you could even have the opportunity to meet Santa as he takes on a magical appearance with the lights and trees. His workshop with the helper elves is also definitely not one to be missed. There will be festive food and cakes all homemade for you to enjoy too.
Opening to the public on Sat 24 Nov - Sun 23 Dec 2018 between 10am-4pm you can escape to another land. For the other dates and times see the timetable below:
Evening in Winter Wonderland
Evening events are from 6pm-8.30pm
Friday 30th November & Saturday 1st December.
Friday 7th December & Saturday 8th December.
Friday 14th December & Saturday 15th December.
Friday 21st December & Saturday 22nd December.
Daytime in Winter Wonderland
Daytime events are from 11am-2pm
Saturday 24th November & Sunday 25th November
Saturday 1st December & Sunday 2nd December
Saturday 8th December & Sunday 9th December
Saturday 15th December & Sunday 16th December
Saturday 22nd December & Sunday 23rd December
Bleddfa Christmas Fair at The Bleddfa Centre
The perfect Christmas crafts and gifts fair has returned this year at The Bleddfa Centre. Bleddfa fair will be open on every Friday-Sunday between 11am-5pm until 22nd December. This is another perfect opportunity for you to get your Christmas shopping off to an elegant start as you have the opportunity to purchase hand-crafted, high-quality items that can make the special gift for your friends and family (or even for yourself).
You will have the chance to pick up cards, decorations, jewellery, garments, ceramics and so much more on sale at the event. All of these items and more have been hand-crafted with delicate care and attention by local artists and makers in Herefordshire. The event is FREE to visit but don’t forget your money to purchase your gifts. We wouldn’t want you to be ‘hangry’ so there will be hot drinks, soup, and festive treats to help you to recover from the shopping or give you that boost to keep you going!
The Perfect Hygge Manifesto
Hygge is not ignoring problems in life but being happy despite them. Wouldn't it be better to have the perfect Hygge manifesto? It’s easy to concentrate on the negatives in life and complain about everything which is what a lot of people tend to do during the winter months, especially after Christmas is over, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
Hygge way of life is more than just sitting around a fireplace, with a blanket and a good book. Sure that sounds great, but it’s more about your mindset and attitude towards life more than anything. It’s about enjoying the simple things in life and being present in the moment. When you’re talking with a friend it means actually engaging in the conversation instead of letting your mind wander off about any problems or stresses you might be currently experiencing, or putting your phone down and actually enjoying the moment which can be difficult in our world which is dominated by technology.
Winter is the perfect time of the year to try out a more ‘Hygge’ lifestyle, as it gets colder and darker outside people will start feeling more rundown and miserable unless you use the weather outside to your advantage and use those long nights to have cosy nights in with your family and friends.
There are plenty of things you can do to keep the Hygge manifesto in your home all year round.
Tips on how to make your home more Hygge:
- Acquire Candles
You will not only save on electricity, but there’s also nothing better than snuggling on the sofa by the warm glow of a candlelight while watching your favourite film. With so many candle scents on the market, it’s really easy to find the perfect one for you.
- Add soft furnishings to your interior
Pillows, blankets, rugs you name it! All of them will help to create a warm and cosy atmosphere in your home, and when put together with candles it will make the perfect setting for a cosy night in.
- Loungewear is the key
Just think of getting home from work into your slippers and dressing gown, warm and cosy. Hygge is all about comfort.
- Hygge with friends
Togetherness is what makes Hygge, and a big part of it is spending time with others and doing things you enjoy together. Invite your friends and family over and cook a meal together, as Hygge is all about finding happiness in the simple things in life.
- Don’t Rush
Not so much a home tip, but nevertheless a very important one. Most people lead really busy lifestyles which don’t leave much room for relaxing or having a moment to yourself. The true concept of Hygge is slowing down and taking it all in, as there’s always going to be things to do, a project to finish or a deadline ahead, that’s why it’s so important to just slow down and sit down for a cup of coffee or go and have a bath.
What can you do to be more Hygge?
Remember Hygge isn’t just for winter, it’s a concept that can be used all year round. It’s about taking everyday life and making it into a special occasion, and about enjoying the simple things in life. In the summer it can be sitting in the sun with a cold drink and magazine, or simply going for a walk in the sunshine.
Spooktacular Halloween Arts
It’s that time of year again, the legendary Halloween is back! Time to whip out those decorations from the loft and get ready to trick or treat yourself to some creative imagination. We have been art and craft crazy these last few months and with the introduction of our #HomeIsWhereTheArtIs competition, we have been loving all of your designs.
Now, we have a new trick up our sleeve and it’s all for you! Give one of these wacky and scarily easy Halloween arts and crafts a go and share your spooktacular creations with us.
Bat lamp
Creepin it real with this awesome bat lamp. Simply create bat cutouts on black card paper and stick them on the inside of a lampshade (cream or white works best). Once stuck on the inside, simply switch the lamp on and watch as the bats take over the light adding the perfect touch to a spooky Halloween.
Melted Crayon Pumpkin
You can have a ‘gourd’ time getting messy and craftsy with crayons and a pumpkin model. Using different coloured crayons, lay them on the paper mache pumpkin, and blow dry the crayons until they melt over the pumpkin. Watch as the colours combine into a beautiful rainbow of colours. Try using orange, yellow, red and brown crayons to create a unique autumnal pumpkin design.
Jar faces
Let’s get lit with these creative mason jar characters. You can make them funny, happy, angry, or scary all ready for the big night. Simply wash out any old mason jars and get decorating with paint, felt pens, permanent markers and any other art supplies you get your hands on.
Image: Brit + Co
Pumpkin plant pots
Put autumnal flowers in hollowed-out pumpkins for easy outdoor decor this ‘Holloween’. This easy outdoor decor can really set the holiday spirits for you and your family. Carve out a few pumpkins and add some soil inside with your favourite autumn plants.
Image: Better Homes & Gardens
Take a look at some of our spooky Halloween entries so far this year!
Be sure to get involved in our #HomeIsWhereTheArtIs competition this Halloween and share your creatively spooky arts and craft designs. With no tricks involved, we have the perfect treat for you with our spooktacular offer for all our new customers. Allow us to give you a friendly fright with 1 week free storage, 1 month free insurance. Enquire today as we help you go Beyooond your comfort zone this Halloween!
Hygge: The fine art of Danish living
Hygge:
Let’s talk art, the fine Danish art known as hygge. You may have seen this word before but you are probably not sure how to pronounce this unusual word.
Hygge pronounced as ‘hoo-ga’ or ‘hue-gah’ is the Danish concept of feeling content and cosy by enjoying even the simplest things in life. Having a nice hot cocoa with marshmallows or enjoying reading a good book on a rainy day is just two of the ways you have probably experienced hygge without even realising you have. In Danish tradition, hygge is such an important and defining feature of their culture. It is like the DNA mark of all Danes! Due to the Danish obsession of all things cosy, Denmark has always been rated the top of the list for the world’s happiest countries. But what truly defines hygge?
Definitions of Hygge:
Now we know what hygge is and how to pronounce it, what truly defines hygge? Firstly, hygge is all about comfort. The warm crackling fire, the snowy outdoors, the cosy sweaters and the hot wine can make it all comforting and all the more hygge. Next is the company, hygge wouldn’t be hygge without a group of your close friends to share it with. You can do hygge by yourself, all curled up on the couch with a blanket and a cup of tea but it’s just not the same without experiencing it with others too. Connecting with nature is also another definitive trait of hygge. Although you can and many do practice hygge indoors, truly living hygge involves enjoying the wonderful outdoors; the sounds, smells, sights of nature. The natural wildlife roaming the woodlands, cooking outdoors with fresh natural ingredients are all part of the hygge life. Even hanging your clothes out to dry on the line is a form of hygge.
There are two more actions that define hygge and they are easier said than done, one is relaxing and the other is simplicity. No relaxation isn’t the same as just sitting still. Relaxing is doing something without being in a rush. Want to take a walk? Don’t do a brisk walk rather a leisurely slow walk is much hygge. Want to exercise? By all means! But don’t exercise in a hurry or hastily rather take your time with your exercise and fully enjoy it. Finally simplicity, hygge isn’t about chasing the thrills in life, rather it’s enjoying the simple things in life. Sipping on your coffee in your dressing gown while looking out the window is ultimate hygge goals.
How to live Hygge
Take a walk: Danes love to go for a long walk no matter the weather. Walking is very hygge and is such a relaxing and easy way to show your hyggeness. Have you had a chance to stroll the beautiful areas of Hereford? Why not make that your next trip this weekend and even pop in and have a coffee with us at Beyond.
Share a meal: Cooking at home is much more hygge than eating out at a restaurant. There is something about hearty home cooked food that can just give you that ultimate cosy and warm sensation inside and out. Share a meal this autumn and enjoy hygge to the max
Enjoy a hot drink: Cup of tea, creamy coffee or even a nice hot cocoa with whipped cream and marshmallows is beyond hygge. On a cold and wet day, a hot drink can lift up your mood and add the extra hygge in your step.
Sing songs: Unleash your inner talent and sing away to your favourite songs. Whip out the old school classics and have a sing-along in your home. Invite your friends over too and hygge it up!
Snuggle up!: There is no cosier activity other than just cuddling! Get out the blankets, the plump cushions and the oversized jumpers and snuggle up on your sofa, bed, with your kids or your pet. Now let us help you take hygge to the next level.
Benefits of Plants for Mindset
Plants can have so many benefits to the body and mood, no wonder taking a nice walk around the countryside can be so relaxing. Many people enjoy gardening because of the relaxing benefits it can have just being surrounded by nature. If you have ever been to Herefordshire, I’m sure you enjoy the surroundings and the beautiful landscapes that Hereford has to offer. But did you know that even indoor plants and gardening can have so many benefits to your wellbeing? We have discussed some of the benefits of indoor plants for mindset and also what indoor plants you may want to have to decorate your house.
Emotional Benefits:
There are many benefits to having houseplants, they can help with the body and with the mind creating more of a positive atmosphere in the home.
Decreases Stress Levels:
We all get stressed at different points in our week or day, do you feel the pressure? Houseplants are a great way to reducing those unnecessary stresses making you feel a little bit more relaxed. According to research, they can help keep your blood pressure levels low which in turn helps to increase your productivity making you feel and be more productive. Because of the reduced stress methods, houseplants make a great asset in the home and even office environment.
Makes You Feel Happier:
Our brain is full of happy chemicals called endorphins, they have been proven to help people who suffer from anxiety or depression to lift their moods. Having a hobby of taking care of your houseplant can help release more of these happy chemicals into your brain providing a happy and healthier you. So rather than sitting down watching TV or just doing nothing at all, get your mind going by involving yourself in a fun active hobby that you are sure to enjoy.
Adapts to Your Surroundings:
Houseplants are perfect for changing the home scenery providing a better home experience. A lot of plants are beautifully coloured which brings life and vibrancy to your home. Also because plants always need care and attention such as having a daily water which can always leave you feeling great!
Physical Benefits:
Clears The Air:
A lot of our homes have poor air quality indoors due to dust build up, furniture, carpets and even the combination of various cleaning products. When the air quality is poor it can cause us to have symptoms such as breathing problems, tiredness, and headaches. However, indoor plants such as the spider plant is a great way to improve air quality as it filters out all the bad chemicals.
Reduces Sickness:
With the weather changing and the cold weather starting to settle in colds and cases of flu are on the rise. Research has found that having houseplants can reduce illnesses by 60% compared to having no plants at all.
Helps with Breathing:
Indoor plants can assist us with our respiration as they absorb carbon dioxide and release fresh oxygen. When the plant increases in the amount of oxygen it releases it automatically generates a cleaner and healthier environment to be in.
Beyond Houseplants:
- Monstera - This dramatic tropical jungle looking houseplant is perfect for brightening up a dark corner in your home. The big beautiful leaves make it a pure delight to have in your home.
- The Money Tree - Unfortunately you cannot get actual cash from this beautiful tree but you can get clean air from it. Scientifically known as the Scindapsus aureus,” is fantastic at purifying the air.
- Areca Palm - This beautiful plant is pet-friendly and great at removing all bad toxins from the air.
30 Daily Self-Care Methods
Self-Care, what is it and why has it become such a big factor in our daily lives? Self-care is all about identifying the needs of your body and being able to take action to fulfil those needs. Focussing on yourself and doing some activities that can nurture your not only your physical but also your mental and emotional health too. Practising good and daily self-care can help reduce stresses, anxiety, improves your mood and your relationship with others.
Self-care should always involve something you enjoy, those activities that you eagerly look forward to after a long day at work or having a busy time with the kids. It should be something you do, just for you. We have put together 30 easy daily self-care methods that can help you
Mind:
Daily self-care for the mind is vital for that growth mindset and mindfulness that we all desire. Try out some of these daily self-care methods for that clear and growing mind. You may have a build up of unnecessary bits and bobs, why not get rid of them if you no longer use them. Go beyond your comfort zone and try something you have never done before. Everyone has questions over something they are not sure of, nothing helps the mind better other than some healthy research. Sometimes it’s good to have a social media break and just unplug your mind from the social world
Body:
Self-care for the body is so important here are a few of the ways that you can practise daily self-care for your body. Give your body a healthy self-clean and enjoy a healthy meal. How about enjoying a slow or brisk work being one with nature? You could also relax your body and mind with some peaceful yoga. After a long day at work, treat yourself to a nice soak in the bath. Stay hydrated and drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Treat your body to something nice it could be having a massage, or buying new clothes.
Soul:
You now have a clearer mind and body, now to activate the soul. The final self-care push to achieve complete positivity. Whip out the creative tools and get arts and craftsy, you can even join in our #HomeIsWhereTheArtIs competition. Give your thanks and write down everything you have been grateful for in your life. Repeat positive affirmations to yourself that can lift up your spirits. Have a self-date and a home spa, pamper and enjoy yourself while checking in with your emotions.
Stress Free September!!
Summer holidays are over and it’s time for a fresh new start this stress free September. With the new academic year in full swing, you finally have the whole house to yourself. But! STRESS! There is so much clutter, you’re probably thinking ‘where did it all come from?’ Decluttering your home can feel like the world’s longest task but it doesn’t have to be stressful or even time-consuming. That’s why we have put together some of our top tips for helping you to declutter this stress-free September.
1. Realistic thinking is key
Don’t rush yourself and try to declutter the whole house in one weekend. Try this approach; take your time by tackling one room at a time, you can even do it over a period of days if that makes it easier. If that still sounds a bit too lengthy, you can start by going through one cupboard first or a drawer and then you will eventually get into the drift.
2. ATTENTION! You are now entering a clutter-free zone
Sound the alarm, raise the roof, shout it out loud. Declare clutter-free zones, for example, the counter or a cabinet is at times the biggest clutter culprits. Clear all items from that area and make it a house rule that nothing should be placed there unless it is always going to be used. You want to get to a point where more less all flat surfaces in your home are free from clutter.
3. Give yourself 20 mins a day
Your main obstacle to clearing clutter may be that you simply don’t have the time. No need to stress, give yourself a mere 20 minutes a day that you promise to dedicate to keeping on top of your clutter. It could just be re-organising a cupboard, tidying up that one drawer in your kitchen that has everything or sorting out that pile of letters from the past month. By investing just a few moments a day, it can all add up to having that clutter-free home you long for, and of course, it keeps your stress levels to a minimum.
4. Get organised
Try having separate boxes or bags that have been labelled with; ‘Things to Bin’, ‘Donate to Charity’, ‘Sell’ and ‘Recycle’. Now the fun part, you can get your kids involved too with this part. Simply separate all the clutter into each box/bag and your set! Kick stress to the curb with organisation city.
5. Out with the old and in with the new
We all love to buy something new, but, remember that pile of unnecessary clutter in the corner of the living room. Do you really need any of those things? As the saying goes, “out with the old and in with the new” so for every new item, make a vow to donate, bin, recycle or sell an item(s) that you no longer want, need or use. The perfect ingredient for stress-free living!
6. Have a clutter basket in every room
This may sound contradictory but it is super helpful. Having a ‘clutter basket’ as it were, is great for chucking the kids toys in, magazines, newspapers, and other bits and bobs that generally does not have a set place in your home. To make your life that much easier, keep a watchful eye on those clutter hotspots and be sure to keep a basket there too. Then when it has built up, go through the basket and remove anything you no longer need. We’re sure those news stories are probably outdated by now!
7. Don’t give up
We know it is a long process and we know it can be stressful, but don’t let that get to you! When you start decluttering and organising your home, it can look worse before it gets better, but the key is commitment, persistence and patience. Try not to get distracted by other tasks, rather, push yourself to complete the current one you have started. To make it even easier for you we have created this handy poster that you can print out. You can put it up in your home to remind you of the easy areas you can reduce clutter in each room at any time of the day.
Beyond's Family Friendly Fun Day!
On Saturday 22nd September we have the perfect weekend getaway for you and your family. For one day only, you can experience a weekend like no other and nurture your wellbeing, we are taking yoga to the next level with Disco Yoga at our Beyond's family-friendly fun day event! Whether you're a newbie yogi, a yoga fanatic or just want to have a little relaxing boogie, our event is suited for everyone, from beginners to intermediate.
Here at Beyond Storage, we are so much more than a storage company. We help people to go beyond their comfort zone is our priority and practising mindfulness and self-care is key. Our Beyond family-friendly fun is suitable for all no matter your age, whether you want to come alone or with family and friends. You can be sure to enjoy some special bonding time with your loved ones or have a fun Saturday with your friends.
Yes! Even kids are welcomed to this fun-filled day so get ready to relax your body and mind with this experience that truly goes above and Beyond.
You also have the opportunity to engulf yourself in the beautiful landscapes of Herefordshire at Beyond Storage Ross on Wye. Our event is an activity-filled day, and we wouldn’t want you to get ‘hangry’ so we have an epic Beyond BBQ to keep you going. We are also partnering up with our local football clubs, charity shops and suppliers to bring you an amazing day out.
What can you look forward to?
- Disco Yoga
- Glitter Station
- Face Painting
- Arts and Crafts
- Auction for Charity
- BBQ
- Bouncing Megaslide
- Giant Games and loads more to be revealed on the day
There will be friendly and experienced staff that will ensure you are happy and comfortable on the day.
Please come dressed in suitable dance/fitness wear for the Disco Yoga bonanza. Or simply come dressed ready to have a good time with family and friends.
Book your space today and allows us to help you go beyond your comfort zone. To get your tickets, click the link here
Beyond Back To School Guide
How was your summer? Hasn’t time flown and the kids are all grown, your little ones may be starting in their first school or they may be going to ‘big school’. But, have you got everything ready for that hectic and dreaded first day back? With the new academic year in full flow, you may be looking for those last minute essentials to get you back into your routine. Or you may be looking for those easy drop off/pick-up techniques to deal with the kids this new school year. We know how frustrating it can be when it’s the first day and the kids just don’t want to compromise with you. First the early wake-up, then the breakfast madness topped by the awful screeching in the house as you bellow for them to get ready.
No need to fear, Beyond is here to help you with these quick DIY top tips and tricks for that smooth transition into the new year. To save you the hassle and give you that extra time to prepare yourself we have got a few handy back to school tricks that you can add to your books. They are quick, easy and DIY friendly to help you get on back on track.
Drop off zone:
Set the boundaries with an after school drop off zone. Shoes and jackets off, bags on the hook and now check the noticeboard. You can create your own after school or even before school drop off zone to make it easier for that last minute morning rush. Not only does it ensure that everything is kept in one place but it also helps to keep your home looking organised and complete with the headless chicken run every morning.
Having this zone for after school is also an incredible idea, including a noticeboard among the design can help your children know what they need to do when they get home. You can also give yourself some peace of mind and enjoy a stress-free back to school routine.
Homework station:
Face it! We all hated homework at some point in our lives but why not make doing homework a little bit more fun with a homework station. Loaded with all the equipment you will need for any project and even a tray of snacks can be such a good incentive to getting the job done. Your homework station can be as adventurous and unique as you like too! A homework station can give your children that extra bit of independence and also leave you without a worry as their homework is all kept in one place. Why not add a tray for pens and pencils, one for paper (plain, lined and math) and one for other bits and bobs in case they have to create a masterpiece for art. Time to get to work!
Stationary pots:
There is nothing more annoying than losing your favourite pen or those needed staples so you can officially complete your work. Don’t throw away those used jars, wash them out and decorate them and use them as stationary pots so you won’t lose those little bits again. Add labels to the jars/pots so you know for sure what’s in the correct jar. It can make your life that little bit easier and that back to school routine as smooth as possible
Hair Hack:
We know the struggles of the morning rush! Where are the kids' socks, jackets on, hair a mess! Let us help you cut out the middleman with this quick hair hack. Simply gather all the hairbands you own and add them to a key ring that could be kept in your bag or car for those quick hair fixes in the morning rush hour.
St Michael’s Hospice Sponsorship!
Here at Beyond Storage we always love to go the extra mile for our community and to help out in whatever way possible to make lives better for all. Hence, we are proud to say we are now sponsoring St Michael’s Hospice which aids people that are affected by terminal illness to live their life to the fullest.
Who are St Michael’s Hospice?
St Michael’s Hospice is an independent charity that is completely free of charge for you and your family. They provide care free of charge to patients, families and their carers too. With St Michaels’ everything is only made possible by the supporters voluntary charitable donations, fundraising events they hold, shopping at their retail outlets and leaving gifts in their wills. Their vision is that every single person in Herefordshire and the surrounding areas that need palliative care has access to it in a timely manner that suits them.
The mission is to make sure end of life and palliative care is available to all who can benefit from it no matter their age, gender, social status, location or illness diagnosis. They can only do this by bringing all the amazing work that is already being carried out by communities at the hospital, and in the hospice to ensure there is a range of services suitable for the variety of needs the patients and families have. The care and compassion that St Michael’s Hospice shows is remarkable even working with others to help people, their carers and families to feel comfortable with support towards the end of their life.
How we show our support?
All of this work cannot be done on their own, so they work with communities, groups and organisations to help people understand the importance of having good palliative care. Getting involved in events that can encourage communities to support the charitable cause is one of their greatest strengths. Hence, we at Beyond Storage are supporting them on their Canwood Art Exhibition event in September, helping to raise them money to support a very good cause. As part of h.Art week, Canwood will showcase art from internationally-acclaimed artists who will display their work during an 8 day exhibition in Herefordshire’s Canwood gallery. Any sales made on each item of art is kindly being donated to St Michael’s Hospice.