Health & Wellness Archives - Jacaranda Living

How to Plan a Cozy Glamping Night in Your Backyard

Do you crave a retreat from the daily grind but lack the time or resources for a full-fledged getaway? The solution lies right outside your back door! In this article, we will reveal how to plan a cozy glamping night in your backyard. With the right setup, your outdoor space can transform into a luxurious escape, blending the comforts of home with the allure of nature.

The Magic of Glamping: Plan an Unforgettable Night in Your Backyard

Glamping, a fusion of glamour and camping, offers the perfect way to reconnect with nature without sacrificing creature comforts. This hybrid experience combines the best of both worlds, providing a memorable and indulgent adventure. After all, what better way to enjoy the “great outdoors” but in your embroidered cotton nightgown and finest monogrammed robe? So, let’s dive into how to plan a cozy glamping night in your backyard.

heather nightgown for glamping — Glamping in the backyard in your favorite comfortable cotton Heather Nightgown

#1 Setting the Stage: Your Glamping Sanctuary

Start by identifying the ideal spot in your yard. Look for a level area, preferably with some natural shade and privacy. Once you’ve found the perfect location, rearrange your backyard setup to create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. This might involve having to figure out how to pack and move outdoor furniture, such as chairs or tables, to accommodate your new glamping haven. Consider adding a few potted plants or flowers to enhance the natural beauty of your space and create a serene, garden-like atmosphere.

#2 A Comfortable Shelter: Tents and Canopies

Next, choose a tent or canopy to serve as your shelter. A well-ventilated and waterproof option is essential. While traditional tents work well, you can also opt for a luxury bell tent or a modern teepee to elevate your glamping experience. Make sure your shelter is spacious enough to accommodate your stunning bedding and any additional furniture you wish to include. Don’t forget to include cozy blankets and fine linen for a touch of indulgence and warmth on cooler evenings. If it rains, don’t worry, you’ll have a handy floral umbrella and pretty poncho at hand to go with your glamping style.

Glamp in a pretty poncho!

#3 Bedding Bliss: Comfort is Key

Your glamping experience wouldn’t be complete without a comfortable sleeping arrangement. Instead of a standard air mattress, consider using a thick foam mattress topper or a memory foam pad for extra support. Dress your bedding with soft cotton sleepwear, plush pillows, and high-quality linens, ensuring a restful night’s sleep under the stars. Add a few decorative cushions or throw blankets to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that makes your outdoor space feel like a home away from home.

#4 Lighting the Way: Ambiance and Safety

Outdoor lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood for your cozy glamping night. String fairy lights around your tent or canopy, and use solar-powered lanterns to light the pathways leading to your glamping site. Not only will this create a magical atmosphere, but it will also help you navigate safely in the dark. For an added touch of elegance, consider using vintage-inspired lanterns or candles in hurricane lanterns to cast a warm, flickering glow throughout your space.

#5 Fireside Fun: Warmth and Entertainment

A fire pit or outdoor fireplace can serve as the focal point for your glamping site. Whether you’re roasting marshmallows, cooking dinner, or simply enjoying the warmth of the fire, gathering around the flames adds a sense of camaraderie and comfort to your backyard adventure. If an open fire isn’t feasible, consider using a portable propane fire pit or electric heater to provide warmth and ambiance without the hassle of tending to a wood-burning fire.

#6 Alfresco Dining: Meals Made Easy

Plan a simple yet delicious menu for your glamping night. Prepare your meals in advance, opting for easy-to-cook or ready-to-eat dishes. Wrap sandwiches or pre-made salads in fine linen napkins, and don’t forget to include our Jacaranda Living vinyl colorful placemats. Consider incorporating a small outdoor dining area with comfortable chairs and a table to make your mealtime more enjoyable. For an added touch of luxury, set the table with elegant tableware and linen napkins, transforming your backyard dining experience into a sophisticated affair.

beautiful table decor for glamping in style — Beautiful placemats and linen napkins for your glamping al fresco dining in style.

#7 Relaxation Stations: Unwind in Style

Add a few extra touches to make your backyard glamping night even more memorable. Consider setting up a hammock or cozy outdoor seating area for relaxation. Roll out plush towels on the ground or over your chairs for added comfort. A soft rug or outdoor cushion can also provide a welcoming spot to sit back and enjoy the tranquility of your surroundings. If you’re a bookworm, don’t forget to pack a few of your favorite reads to enjoy by the fire or under the shade of a tree. In case of a cold and need for some pretty linens, pack a pretty embroidered Tissue Box Cover for your Kleenex box and matching fingertip Terry Guest Towels.

pretty embroidered tissue box cover for glamping in style — Our whimsical Martini Monkey Tissue Box Cover will be a hit on your glamping experience in the backyard.

matching martini monkey terry towels and tissue box cover — Martini Monkeys for glamping in style.

#8 Entertainment Essentials: Fun for Everyone

While the natural beauty and serenity of your backyard may be entertainment enough, it’s always a good idea to have a few fun activities on hand. Bring along board games or playing cards for some friendly competition, or set up a portable projector for an outdoor movie night under the stars. If you’re a music lover, a portable Bluetooth speaker can provide the perfect soundtrack to your evening. Whatever your interests, be sure to tailor your entertainment options to suit the preferences of everyone in your party.

#9 Personal Touches: Make It Yours

Finally, add some personal touches to your glamping site to truly make it feel like a home away from home. Incorporate your favorite colors and patterns through monogrammed decorative pillows, blankets, or table linens. Hang some artwork or family photos inside your tent for a cozy, familiar atmosphere. You can even bring along a few cherished keepsakes or mementos to remind you of your favorite travel destinations or past glamping adventures.

monkey in tree pillow — Monogram a special pillow to give your glamping experience that personal touch. You’ll remember forever!

Your Backyard Oasis Awaits

Now that you know how to plan a cozy glamping night in your backyard, it’s time to put your newfound knowledge into action. With just a bit of creativity, some thoughtful planning, and your high-quality cotton and linen sleepwear, you can transform your outdoor space into a luxurious and comfortable retreat, perfect for unwinding and reconnecting with nature. So, gather your supplies, rally your loved ones, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable backyard glamping experience!

Simple Ways to Give a Spa-Like Feel to Your Bathroom

Soaking in a luxurious bathtub is one of life’s best pleasures. But even if you have the perfect tub and all the right soaps, it can be hard to achieve that spa-like feel at home. Luckily, there are some simple ways to give a spa-like feel to your bathroom without breaking the bank or changing your entire layout!

Hang a large mirror

Before putting on your favorite face mask, consider hanging a large mirror in your bathroom. It can make the room feel larger, more open, and airy. Look for a mirror that can be hung on a hook rather than one with a stand if space is an issue.

In addition to increasing the perceived size of the room, mirrors also help light the space by reflecting it into the room. This increases brightness without having to add additional lighting fixtures or lamps.

Add a glass door

A glass door is a great way to add light and make your bathroom feel larger. It can be used for cabinets, shower enclosures, and other bathroom areas, giving that spa-like feel to your bathroom.

a lady enjoying a spa — Let more natural light into your bathroom.

Glass doors can also be customized to match your bathroom’s style and décor. If you want something different from what you see in stores, glass door framers can help create custom pieces. They will cut each piece out of just about any material imaginable, ensuring you get what you want at an affordable price.

Install water-resistant cabinets

You can also install water-resistant cabinets. These are great for bathrooms because they will not warp or swell, and they are stain-resistant, making them easy to clean. If your cabinets are not already water-resistant, it is important to wipe them down after every use.

Another simple way to make your bathroom feel more spa-like is by getting a bath mat. It can absorb moisture from the floor and prevent slipping in wet areas like the shower or tub area. Shower curtains that allow steam to escape while still preventing condensation build-up on windows are another useful tool in creating a humid environment while preserving privacy inside the room.

Use natural light

Natural light is important for both mood and energy. Studies show that the more natural light you have in your home, the happier you are. Natural light can be used to create a spa-like feel in your bathroom by drawing attention to its natural beauty. To do this, simply use curtains or blinds on windows so that they allow enough but not too much sunlight into the room. After all, you will most likely wear your favorite nightgown while enjoying a spa-like experience.

Add candles

If you want to give your bathroom a spa-like feel, try adding candles. Candles can be used for aromatherapy, lighting, and creating romantic or relaxing atmospheres. They can also be used to create a spa-like atmosphere by adding them around the tub or bathtub area. You can even purchase candle holders that are designed specifically for use in bathrooms!

Candles are a great way to add some ambiance to your bathroom. You can use them in and around the bathtub, on countertops, or even on shelves. Candles are also very easy to set up and will only take you a few moments before they start creating their ambiance.

calla lilly embroidered bath linens — our Calla Lily collection will spruce up your bathroom in no time.

Tips for decorating your home after the move

If you just moved into a new home, you will have plenty of things on your mind. First, Best Long Distance Movers professionals advise that it’s best to unpack your belongings first, especially more prominent pieces of furniture. Once you do that, you should try to visualize your home’s design. Before you give a spa-like feel to your bathroom, consider the belongings you already have. There’s a chance you can use some of them to achieve this design. Finally, list inventory and decoration items you need to buy. Please take a look at some of our suggestions.

Play ambient noise

If you’re looking to create a spa-like ambiance, the first step is to play calming music. There are plenty of websites that offer free ambient sounds like rainforest noises or ocean waves crashing on the shore.

The next step is to turn on the lights. You can start by dimming the lights in your living room and turning them off completely in other rooms. This will create a relaxing atmosphere that encourages you to just sit back and relax.

These simple touches will completely transform your bathroom

Decorating your bathroom will be a great joy if you move into a new home! But first, you should make sure your Massachusetts move goes smoothly. Moving experts can jump in and help you with heavy lifting if you have a large household to move. Once you organize your long-distance and hire movers, you’ll be left with the best part – decorating your home! So, to sum it up, here’s our list of the best ways to give a spa-like feel to your bathroom:

- Display your favorite towels.
- Hang a large mirror to make the space feel larger.
- Install water-resistant cabinets to prevent damage from moisture and leaks.

Don’t forget to display your favorite towels

Displaying towels is a great way to add color and texture to your bathroom. Just like decorative pillows are the soul of a bedroom, towels are the same in the bathroom. To do this, select towels that are the same color as the walls or cabinets. This will lead your eye to consider how well the two items complement each other visually. If you have a small space and don’t have enough room for multiple towels, try using one large towel instead of several smaller ones.

embroidered white terry guest towels — A few simple details can transform your bathroom.

Conclusion

Start with these simple touches when you’re looking for ways to give a spa-like feel to your bathroom. They’re affordable and easy to do. And if you don’t have the time or money for renovations, focus on one or two. Even something as small as hanging a mirror can make a big difference!

Top 5 Reasons To Wear Slippers When You Get Home

When you get home, take your shoes off and put on our comfortable, cozy waffle weave slippers. They are the best! Here’s why it’s important to put on clean slippers and take your shoes off before entering your home.

Protect your health!

Now more than ever, it is crucial to take care of our health. COVID-19 outbreak is a serious threat, and one of the reasons to leave shoes at the front door is to stop the spreading of bacteria and viruses in your home.

If you have small children or pets around the house, they probably spend a lot of time on the floor. By putting on our comfortable slippers and removing shoes before you enter the living room, you keep it clean and bacteria-free. The best way to additionally protect your kids is to get soft indoor booties to keep their feet warm.

leave shoes at the front door and put on our cozy slippers — At the end of a long busy day, these comfy Slippers enjoy hugging weary feet!

Avoid spreading dirt or damaging your floor

Besides preventing harmful bacteria or toxins from entering your home, leaving shoes at the front door will help you keep the dirt off your precious carpet! Another reason is to prevent any damage to the floor. If you wear large boots, they can often catch a few pebbles on the soles. Once you start walking on your hardwood floor, there is a chance it will get scratched. With that in mind, heavy boots off – cotton slippers on!

Maintain clean hygiene

Besides doing everything you can to protect your health and boost your immune system, it is also crucial to keep foot hygiene at a higher level. Wearing shoes all day long will cause an unpleasant smell and sweating. Your feet need some time to relax and breathe.

One of the reasons shoes should be left at the front door is to prevent this issue and take care of your feet.

As soon as you come home, take your shoes off, and give a nice, bubbly bath to your feet. You can even apply a few massage moves to relax your soles and fingers. Feet play a crucial role in our health, so treat them with care.

Show off your favorite embroidered slippers!

Even though the holidays are behind us, there is no reason to stop wearing those awesome vacation slippers you love so much! Many people like to buy colorful slippers with different designs and patterns on them, but no one gets to see them if you wear shoes all day long. Now that we are all working from home, you might as well show off your favorite designs.

the best embroidered slippers at home — show off your favorite slipper designs to your friends and family at home

Set an example for your children

Kids are like sponges; they learn everything, good or bad. When we see a child who misbehaves, they have probably picked that up from someone close. Parents often unintentionally transfer their bad habits to children.

a little girl wearing the zoe dress — Children love comfy clothes, introducing the new Zoe dress for your cute princess.

If you wish to raise your kids the right way, make sure to set an example for them. If they see you removing your shoes at the door, they will start doing it themselves. This is an excellent way to teach them proper manners, which may help them in the future. Some cultures take shoe rules very seriously. Set the precedent for them! Shoes off at the front door, slippers on. 🙂

Top 5 reasons shoes should be left at the front door

Let’s do a quick summary of the top 5 reasons shoes should be left at the front door:

it helps protect your health
no dirt on the floor or your expensive rug
it is easier to take care of hygiene
show off your awesome slippers
set an example for your children

Rest your tired feet at the end of a busy day to just hang out at home! You’ll want to slip them on from the moment you get home … every day.

White Waffle Weave Slippers — Pamper yourself in these soft ‘comfy pillow beds’ with a ribbed waterproof rubber sole for better grip.

Slippers are the way to go! Wear slippers as soon as you get home, stay clean and comfortable, and stop bringing in dirt from outdoors to your home. Spread love, treat yourself and a dear friend today, and have a great week!

Sources:

https://www.pexels.com/photo/crop-ethnic-woman-tying-shoes-of-anonymous-girl-5094107/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-home-area-rug-2950003/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/close-up-photography-of-person-wearing-pink-house-slippers-1444417/

https://www.pexels.com/photo/canvas-shoes-close-up-color-design-288157/

Tips To Stay Sane and Comfortable While Working From Home

It is important to stay comfortable and sane during this pandemic crisis especially while you work from home and spend the majority of time at home. Here are tips to help you have a routine that works for you so you don’t feel flustered. Scroll through to find what might work for you and bookmark this page to come back to it.

Journaling and Writing a Daily Schedule

Have you been writing down everything you want to accomplish in the day? Working from home has taken a toll on a lot of people because it’s different, and people don’t like to adjust to a completely new way of life. There are ways to cope, however, and you can make it a lot easier on yourself if you take some pressure away and you make lists. By writing down a schedule you will be sure to accomplish at least 80% of the things you planned on getting to that morning.

Make Your Home Pretty

Get a few things for your home that make you smile. Either tissue box covers or pretty embroidered pillows that will keep you from going insane. It’s important to take the trash out and scrub the floors because no one likes journaling or living in a house that gets dirty. One little idea to add to every room in the house is this:

Decorate your home with pretty things. Our embroidered tissue box covers are the perfect addition to jazz up any room in the house.

Picking Out Your Child’s Outfits

Kids don’t like to be forced into uncomfortable outfits that will be a mission to get them in and they just want to be comfortable at home. If you want them to be dressed in something that is decent and makes them at least look nice but isn’t a pain to wash, then pick something from the children’s section on our website. There are white cotton pants and shirt sets for little boys with embroidered sailboats and then there are a dozen of cute English cotton dresses for your little girls. These outfits are very easy to be washed and will have the kids smiling as they can play around the house freely without any discomfort, and they’ll look pretty and elegant. Nothing is nicer than seeing your kids happy and smiling in something that you can toss into the wash after without worrying about wrinkles or shrinkage.

Some favorite outfits for the children are below:

Boy’s Ship Shape Shorts Set

Einor Elephant and Wendy Whale dress

💘 stay home with your cute little ones. Enjoy cooking, doing puzzles, playing games and sharing laughs.

Lucy Dress

Amelia Dress

Yoga Pants and Meditate

Ladies, I’m sure you want nothing more than to just lounge and relax after all your chores and hustle around the house. If you’re a mom, you probably have resorted to keeping on your pajama pants for most of the morning unless you go straight into yoga pants which you’ll be wearing all day. We suggest a morning routine of working out or doing yoga to get you in the zone for the day. There’s a lot to be done especially if you’re a working mom and it’s hard enough being the teacher to your kids on top of your full time job. The world is crazy right now but remind yourself this is only temporary, and you are a boss woman.

Kick on those yoga pants and do an at home workout video to calm your mind. We suggest checking out @whitsich from Instagram or any Yoga and Pilates class from HYP Yoga (based in Needham, Massachusetts). Such a favorite and all the instructors are passionate about their practice. Don’t be shy to donate to the tip jar via Venmo after you take a class. Their classes are free but tip jars are highly encouraged to keep small businesses like these from sinking.

After you do your little morning workout and have a meditation session, your mind will be feeling at ease. You are ready to take on the day and your next list of things that are listed on your schedule. Pick out something comfortable to wear and get to it.

Lounge in Cotton Pants or Breezy Nightshirts

Once you’ve checked off a few more work or house related tasks from your list, take a shower, and get into something cozy and comfortable.

If you’re not a nightgown lady, we suggest a cotton nightshirt or comfortable cotton PJ pants and classy top. These options might seem like Pajamas but they’re really just chic loungewear. You can dress them with flip flops and a lightweight cardigan and no one will know! These days pajamas are hardly looked down upon and if you wear any of the below around the house before 5pm, no one will call you out for it. Get comfortable!

Pru PJ set

Cute Nightshirts

Do Some Puzzles and Set the Table

It’s puzzle time. Set out a plate of carrots, homemade hummus, with custom monogrammed dinner table napkins by yours truly for an elegant table setting.

It’s important to differentiate work time and relaxing time. After most of your list is checked off and you are in your cozy little Jacaranda Living outfit and the house looks somewhat tidy, then you can unwind from your day. It’s APERITIVO TIME!

Play some music (we’ve personally been loving Rita Wilson’s Quarantine Playlist on Spotify) and put the news on in the background so you can keep up with the news on the pandemic. It’s important to be in the know so you and your family are aware but it is also important to keep to your old schedule and have a little fun and time to relax.

Set the table with elegant table napkins and proper glassware to add some sanity back into your work from home life.

After an hour or two of relaxed chilling, you and the family can get to cooking together and setting the table.

Back to Journal and Lights Out

The next few hours are time to relax, laugh, unwind to a movie or TV show (we’ve already binged Tiger King) and before bed journal a few things down. What did you love about the day? What scares you about the pandemic? What do you want to tell your future self after all of this dies down? Has this new routine given you hope or made you tap into a new creative side you didn’t realize you had? This is a crazy time for everyone but it will help you stay sane by keeping to a schedule and jotting down your thoughts along the way. I hope it helps.

xoxo,

The Jacaranda Team

Important Health Resources for Those in Their Golden Years

It is important to have the best health resources at hand for everyone but especially people in their golden years. Thank you to Karen Weeks for sharing this article on how to find the best health tips for the elderly. Now that we’re all dealing with a coronavirus pandemic and are forced to stay home, there are ways to make the best of this situation and it is important to be well educated on the best health resources. Karen’s article below explains everything there is to know when looking out for someone in their golden years.

golden years_jacarandaliving — Our 90 year old fun-loving Granny Judy wearing the Botanical Garden Raincoat for a brunch at her home in Hermanus, South Africa. Looking so stylish and cute!

Important Health Resources for Those in Their Golden Years

Contrary to what you’ve been led to believe, good physical and mental health are possible for people of all ages. Lifestyle changes, paying attention to your physical and mental health, and ensuring you have adequate health coverage can help you not only stray strong, but it can also help you continue to thrive and stay independent well into your golden years. So, here are some ways you can stay healthy for many years to come.

Staying Home vs. Exploring Living Options

On the other side of the family, Jamma and Jumps, loving the outdoors in 1995. Living up their golden years as grandparents to 20 kids!

Your living situation can have a positive or negative impact on your health and well-being. Some people choose to stay at home as they grow older, while others prefer to move to retirement communities. So, consider your ability to maintain and move around your home. Additionally, determine whether you can meet the financial obligations associated with your house. Some cities have programs or grants that can assist seniors with these obligations.

Moving to an independent living facility is great for those who want the freedom to live life on their terms without the hassle of having to maintain a home. These facilities are smaller and easier to look after. They are built with the needs of senior citizens in mind and usually offer activities that help you build a community. Rules, regulations, and costs can vary depending on the location or amenities offered. In the New York City area, the monthly cost of an independent living facility usually runs between $1,500 and $17,250.

Mark Your Calendar

Chic and stylish, youthful Granny Judy exudes confidence every day up til her golden years.

Make sure you visit or call your doctor regularly, even if you are in perfect health. Everyone benefits from having a physical and mental health screening at least once per year. Before your appointment, make sure you’re ready to discuss your family’s medical history or any recent concerns. Communicate any changes in your appetite, sleep, and general well-being. Let your doctor know if you have any current vision or hearing issues, and bring a list of medications, supplements, or vitamins you may be taking. You can usually expect your doctor to check your blood sugar level and blood pressure during your regular appointment.

Medicare is a great resource for senior citizens who want to keep tabs on their health. The program covers the cost of an annual wellness visit, and your doctor can refer to a specialist for anything that requires a closer look. There is a seven-month enrollment period for people who sign up for Medicare the year they turn 65. It begins three months before they turn 65, lasts through the month you turn 65, and then three months after you turn 65; otherwise, open enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7 every year. Make sure you assess your coverage annually so you can check up on changes to costs or coverage. Finally, you can talk to your doctor about any services you feel you’ll need in the coming year.

Check Your Habits

Now that you’ve decided where you want to live, made your doctor’s appointments, and signed up for Medicare, you can boost your well-being by creating some healthy habits. Exercise is known to improve your mood, decrease blood pressure, and even sustain bone and joint health. Experts suggest strength training two to three days per week with a rest day between each session, a minimum of 150 minutes of cardio on a weekly basis, and simple stretches every day. Talk to your physician before revamping your exercise routine.

While you’re busy formulating your new fitness routine, make sure you get the right nutrients in your diet. Also, remember to stay hydrated, and make sure you’re getting healthy fats, protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Low-fat dairy is also recommended, but you can talk to your doctor about alternatives if you’re lactose intolerant.

There are plenty of resources for senior citizens who are concerned about starting or maintaining routines that will help them enjoy life, get some exercise, and eat the right foods. Follow these tips and your doctor’s recommendations, and don’t be afraid to ask for guidance.

Keeping your routine with family and loved ones at home until your golden years is key to happiness and better health.

Thanks for the awesome article Karen, we certainly learned a lot and where to check for the best health resources. Stay mindful out there everyone, try to stay in doors and look after each other. This is a scary time for all of us and the only way through it is by staying together at home, keeping your hands washed, and constantly disinfecting your home.

xoxo,

The Jacaranda Team

Five Steps to a More Restful Bedroom

white cotton nightgown

Life can be hectic, and finding time and space to relax is sometimes difficult. Stressful days can even lower your sleep quantity and quality, which could be dangerous. After all, studies have shown that lack of sleep could increase the risk of heart disease or stroke.

After an exhausting day, returning to your bedroom for sleep should create feelings of relief and rejuvenation. However, a messy or unorganized bedroom can add to daily anxieties. Use the following tips to transform your bedroom from a place to desperately catch up on sleep to a place of luxury and rest:

Declutter
Some say that a clear space creates a clear mind, and having a clear mind before bed is essential to a good night’s rest. For example, keep piles of laundry out of the bedroom so that you’re not reminded of the chores you still have to do. Make sure that the walkway is clear, too, for greater accessibility in your den of relaxation.
Create a Color Scheme
A color scheme can have a powerful impact on your mood. Choose soothing, soft tones to encourage rest, like gentle blues, lilacs, and grays. Try not to pick any patterns or accents that are chaotic and jarring. Mental Floss recommends making sure color schemes are spread around the room for a good design. For example, if you choose a navy accent, having a navy boudoir pillow, a navy throw rug, and a few navy elements in your curtains would help make the scheme more cohesive.
Upgrade Your Sleepwear
Once your bedroom scheme feels luxurious and well-designed, start thinking about your actual sleeping habits. Do you flop into bed in your work clothes, or rely on the same worn pair of shorts in place of pajamas? Feel more comfortable (and fancier) by investing in quality pajamas or nighties. White cotton nightgowns are particularly comfortable and provide breathability, warmth, and a level of luxury perfect for unwinding in the evenings.
Keep it Clean
Though you should keep laundry and other messes out of the bedroom, it is also a good idea to keep the bedroom items themselves clean. Fresh sheets, wrinkle-free white cotton nightgowns, and dusted surfaces will help the room smell good and feel more luxurious and restful.
Keep Work Out
Finally, try to avoid bringing work items or thoughts into the bedroom with you. You won’t be able to appreciate your white cotton nightgown or your embroidered pillows if your phone keeps ringing or your laptop is pinging with new emails.

Relaxation at night is important for success, happiness, and good health during the day. Follow these steps for a stress-free bedroom and a better night’s rest.

CEO-Approved Bedtime Rituals You Should Try

You work hard. You come home tired and having residual stress from the day. How do you relax and ready yourself to go back to work the next morning? Take a few pages of advice from some of the busiest people you’ll meet — chief executive officers (CEOs) of big companies. Many of these top bosses have shared their bedtime rituals with the public in the past. Let’s consider some of their more attainable goals that could help YOU go to sleep with soothed muscles and a quiet mind.

Eat dinner with family or friends.

Intuit CEO Brad Smith and Virgin Founder Richard Branson are among the numerous CEOs who make a point of spending time with loved ones in the evening, especially over a nice dinner. Treating meals as a relaxing and social time instead of a necessary interruption in your day lets you have some thoughtful down-time. Plus, studies have shown that people who make time to socialize during meals eat more thoughtfully and make healthier food choices. If you live alone, set up another situation to thoughtfully eat, such as with a good book or sudoku puzzle.

Have a consistent self-care ritual.

Whether it’s a skincare routine, hot bubble bath, or light snack with herbal tea, have a sensory self-care ritual every night. Your body will train itself to recognize the ritual as a sign of impending bedtime, and you’ll feel yourself winding down in no time. For example, Oprah Winfrey enjoys the transcendental meditation method (that is also capturing the hearts of other executives) before bed.

Choose dedicated, comfy, dare we say CUTE pajamas.

Cute pajamas that aren’t old workout clothes and ratty t-shirts are a must. There are three benefits here: being comfy, establishing a routine your body will recognize, and feeling confidently “put-together” while you do it. Look the part of a confident, sophisticated CEO and you’ll feel the part, right? A nightgown, simple white nightshirt, or soft white cotton pajamas are all CEO-approved. Yes, men, you can also stand to benefit from investing in dedicated pajamas or at least a robe.

Don’t use your phone.

Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg and media giant Arianna Huffington make a point to keep their phones off and away when they’re getting shut-eye. Huffington keeps her phone charging in another room, not her bedroom, so the temptation isn’t there. You’re likely glued to your phone out of want or necessity all day, and all that activity and blue light mess with your circadian rhythm. Many CEOs and industry leaders opt to use a good old fashioned alarm clock instead of their phone for their morning alarm.

Don’t stay in bed long — but make it COMFY.

Beyond stylish or cute pajamas, having a comfy, dedicated bed space is also CEO approved. Don’t be in bed longer than you have to; only lay down when you’re ready to sleep and don’t linger in the morning. When you ARE in your bed, make it as comfy as an experience as you like. Choose soft linens or nice touches like embroidered pillowcases, and wash everything once a week. Use more sensory experiences like pillow sprays on top of it; around 75% of people report a better night’s sleep with fresh-smelling sheets, so don’t underestimate the power of your nose.

As some of the world’s busiest and most successful people, executives probably know what they’re talking about when it comes to relaxation. All these things can be tailored to your personal preferences, so don’t be afraid to experiment before you reach that perfect night’s sleep.

Thoughtful Gifts for a Premature Baby (and Mom)

Today, with advances in medicine, premature babies have an ever increasing chance for survival. It’s not uncommon to hear, “we don’t care what the baby is, as long as its healthy.” But there are many babies today born too early, and they are still very much wanted, and loved. If a premature baby has arrived in your life, there are gifts that can help baby and mother/father bond, and give an added boost for stability and development. Take that extra step and give a gift of thoughtfulness the new mother will appreciate.

Skin-to-Skin Care for Premature Babies

Also known as Kangaroo Mother Care, skin to skin care is often recommended for premature or preterm babies. According to Kangaroo Mother Care’s website, skin-to-skin contact can provide a number of benefits including:

Better brain development
Better emotional development
Less stress
Less crying
More settled sleep
Breathe better

simple, pure cotton, buttonfront nightie — Button front, comfortable cotton

There are also benefits for the parents of premature babies:

Parents become more central to the care team
Better bonding and interaction with the baby
Emotional healing
Parents are calmer
Better coping skills in the NICU

But what about when baby comes home? Is skin-to-skin still important?

At feeding time, skin-to-skin care can help!

Skin-to-skin care can also assist at home for babies who have trouble relaxing and settling at feeding time. For both bottle and breastfeeding, skin to skin can help them gain a sense of security and assist in transition them to the sucking action needed to latch on and feed appropriately.

Tummy-time can be mommy or daddy and baby time.

“Tummy Time” is also an important part of a baby’s development. According to babygooroo, this time spent each day can assist babies in developing healthy tummy structure, and neck muscles. The good news is you don’t have to just leave the baby on a blanket on the floor. Get involved in tummy time by letting baby lie on your tummy. Jacaranda Living’s Carly Nightgown with button front, and our full line of embroidered pajamas are perfect for a relaxing, or not so relaxing day spent with a new baby, and plenty of tummy-to-tummy time.

Cotton Pajamas help mom and baby — The perfect pajamas for a new mom

They’re a perfect choice for a new mother, or mother-to-be. Whether baby is full term or premature, comfortable, embroidered cotton sleepwear is a special treat mom will enjoy immediately because of the flexibility it offers for spending time with the new little one in her life. She’ll also appreciate it later on, when looking for something to relax in for a much-needed night’s sleep!

Embroidered cotton pajama tops make a great cool summer top — Pretty enough for every day!

Some of our pajama tops are even cute enough to wear as a cool summer top!

Preemie Daywear – What’s best?

Premature babies can have difficulty with body warmth in the early weeks. While the NICU will provide for them, once a small baby is home, making sure to provide comfortable, warm and safe clothing is important. Too warm is not good, but choosing a light fabric and being able to layer is a good idea.

Consider the benefit of natural fabrics like cotton which is soft, and breathable and ranked among natural fabrics as the best for babies. Cotton is washable, and comfortable for little ones to snuggle down in. Another recommendation included on babycenter.com is avoiding ribbons, strings and ties. These can present a choking hazard for infants. Baby Sacks from Jacaranda Living are a perfect choice, with no strings or ties, and an elastic bottom to keep tiny feet warm, but allow for movement and air circulation.

pure cotton baby sacks, custom embroidered — Perfect for newborns to wear all day!

They also offer mitten cuffs to keep baby from scratching himself. In a variety of embroidery options and matching accessories, including onesies, booties, hats and bibs, these are a great baby shower gift or welcome home surprise!

The Benefit of Booties

Booties are a great way to keep baby’s feet warm but give you flexibility when temperatures change. It’s easy to remove booties (your little one will probably find that out quickly!), when you’re outdoors on a warm day, but to put them back on in air-conditioned spaces. Taking a walk on a sunny day with a bit of a breeze can be comfortable for you, but perhaps a bit too chilly for naked baby feet. According to Footfiles, infant socks, or booties can help with fussiness, difficulty sleeping, decreased appetite and poor weight gain! A simple item of clothing can make an obvious difference! So, consider our wide range of booties as a perfect option, for you or someone you know!

pure cotton baby booties in a vareity of designs — Froggy booties are sweet

Sources

http://www.kangaroomothercare.com/

https://babygooroo.com/articles/10-ways-to-do-skin-to-skin-care

https://www.babycenter.com/404_whats-the-best-sleepwear-for-my-baby_7628.bc

http://www.footfiles.com/health/childrens-foot-care/article/barefoot-babies-are-socks-good-or-bad-for-newborns

New Year’s Resolutions – Renew You with a Home Spa

A Home Spa – Incentive to Stick to Those Resolutions

The big new year’s celebration is over, and for some those resolutions have already been forgotten, but for many a resolution to get healthier is a very real, and very attainable goal. If you’ve vowed to run more, walk regularly or renew that gym membership and really use it, read on! Consider creating a home spa to relax and rejuvenate after your workout. It’s a definite motivator, and It’s easy with these 4 simple steps!

Create a Home Spa Environment

When you go to the spa, what do you notice first? The scent of eucalyptus? The soothing music? The soft, fluffy towels? These are easy to recreate in your home spa!

Spa Scents Made Easy

From aromatherapy candles, to essential oils and room sprays, the scent of a spa is an immediate signal to your brain that its time to relax and revitalize. ScratchMommy recommends the following to ease you into a relaxed state of mind:

Jasmine, rose, chamomile, or ylang-ylang for frustrations with loved ones
Citrus, lavender, sandalwood or sage if dark days have you feeling down.
Oregano, peppermint, eucalyptus, pine or rosemary can help with a stuffy head

scented candles for relaxation — Scented candles bring a relaxing glow

ScratchMommy also has a great candle recipe using beeswax or soy to create a soothing scent to turn your bath into a sweet space to rediscover your sanity.

Music to Relax and Inspire

Relaxing in a warm bath with soft music in the background is a great way to end a busy day, or soak away tightness in tired muscles. Kohler has some great tips for adding music to your bathroom to help create that spa environment. The Moxie Showerhead and wireless speaker is an easy addition to make your favorite music a part of your Home Spa. The speaker just pops into the showerhead, and is interchangeable so each family member can have their own.

Or if you’re into a bit more immersive experience, consider the VibrAcoustic Hydrotherapy system which works with your smartphone, tablet or MP3 player to send vibrations pulsing above and below the waterline!

Look for appropriate spa music on iTunes, Pandora, or even your Amazon Echo Dot and you’ll be ready to sit back and relax.

Fluffy Towels, Robes, and Slippers Complete the Sensory Experience of a Home Spa

We can’t forget the luxurious feeling of fluffy towels for drying, slipping your feet into linen slippers and wrapping yourself in a luxurious robe after your home spa experience. Quality cotton like that used in products offered by Jacaranda Living can give you that spa at home feeling every day!

Generous bath sheets – 35” x 70” are large enough to wrap you up after a hot shower, or a warm bubble bath. Choose from white or ivory to give that clean, uncluttered spa look to a bathroom. If you want to give your home spa a personal touch, why not choose embroidered designs drawn from the sea, or our popular Bee Wreath design.

Sweet Accessories Amp Up the Home Spa Feeling

Looking to really transform your bath to give it that home spa feeling? Consider adding a fluffy terry robe, an elegant shower curtain, and even slippers and a shower cap all embroidered with the same design. With 100% cotton, you’ll have the soft, super absorbent accessories you love at the spa, right in your own home! What a great way to reward yourself after a long run, or a yoga class. It’ll keep you on track and be an incentive to continue to treat yourself throughout the year. Why not? You deserve it!

A Few Additional Touches

With just a few more simple touches, your bath will really stand out as a home spa! Add fresh cut flowers in a pretty vase to a small table in the bath. Consider adding a dimmer switch to your bathroom lighting. Add a small table for candles, a favorite book, hand-made sugar scrubs, or a glass of wine. With just a few simple steps your family bathroom becomes a home spa you’ll look forward to using every day!

Resources

www.popsugar.com

www.scratchmommy.com

ideas.kohler.com

Enjoy your Home Spa and Happy New Year from Jacaranda Living!

Why Do Babies Wear Hats?

Are Baby Hats a Must for a New Baby?

Any baby looks sweeter with baby ducks along for the ride. When it’s cold outside, hats on everyone is a must to keep stay warm. Significant body warmth is lost through the head when you’re outside on a freezing wintery day. But why is it that newborns wear a baby hat at the hospital? They don’t go outside! And you may also wonder, is it necessary for them to wear hats all the time? This article will make you realize it’s not always necessary.

Newborns wear baby hats for a reason

According to BabyCenter, babies are given a hat immediately after birth because they’ve just come from a warm, moist place and let’s face it, the hospital can be a relatively chilly one! But once they’ve acclimatized to their environment, and certainly when they leave the hospital, a hat isn’t as necessary. Except for looking cute! “’Healthy, full-term infants don’t need to wear a cap once they get home,” says Howard Reinstein, a pediatrician in Encino, California, and a spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics.’ But there is a reason you may want to skip the hat initially and just enjoy your first few minutes together undisturbed, skin-to-skin, enjoying a special time that will never come again.

Skin-to-Skin Bonding is a Reason to Skip the Baby Hat

You know that new baby smell that everyone loves? Well, it helps mothers and babies bond. That smell triggers certain bonding responses in a new mother’s brain. When the mother smells her baby’s scent, that new baby smell very specific to her own child, it triggers a big boost of oxytocin which speeds along the birth process itself. Covering up the infant’s head with a baby hat can change that effect in the first hour or so after birth.

Just let your doctor or midwife know you’d prefer to practice skin-to-skin bonding right after the birth. Your baby will be able to stay warm snuggled up close, and as long as there have been no complications, everyone should be safe and happy. In addition, as further explained by BabyBelly.com, when you are practicing that skin-to-skin contact right after the birth, a hat isn’t needed because the mother’s body warmth will keep the baby’s body warmth regulated. So enjoy those first few moments. There is plenty of time after you get to know each other to don those sweet little hats.

Sweet newborn baby hat with embroidered sheep — A baby hat for the trip home

Dress Your Baby in Layers

Once your baby is ready to come home, it’s a good idea to dress them in layers so they can stay warm but you can easily remove a layer or add a layer to assist them in staying comfortable.

Baby hats, onesies, booties, and pillows — A beautiful set for baby with sweet embroidered details

If the ambient temperature is below 80 degrees, a hat is a good idea. It’s also a great way to prevent sunburn. But how do you know if baby is too hot? OurEverydayLife recommends you check baby’s hands, feet or back. If they feel cold, add a layer of clothing, a warmer hat, or just a blanket.

Gifts for the Winter Baby

A winter baby can enjoy the luxury of multiple hats, head bands, knitted, crocheted, and soft cotton items to build a truly personal wardrobe. If you’re welcoming a new baby into your home or family this winter, why not choose a variety of colors, textures, and patterns of hats, bibs, and blankets to make the new little one feel welcome?

It’s best to stay away from wool, but cotton, terry, acrylic and linen are perfect. They’re all washable, comfortable and perfect for layering.

embroidered pillows, baby hats, quilts and more — A bundle of gifts including items from Jacaranda Living for the newest member of the family

Add onesies in both newborn and larger sizes because little ones grow up fast and come Spring and Summer, additional larger pieces will be a welcome addition to the wardrobe.

Jacaranda Living has beautiful, washable, embroidered baby hats, onesies, blankets and booties to keep your baby comfortable, safe and looking sweet all year round.

Sources

http://www.babycenter.com/404_when-can-my-baby-stop-wearing-those-infant-hats_1368473.bc

http://oureverydaylife.com/newborn-need-hat-11369.html

http://www.bellybelly.com.au/baby/no-hats-on-newborn-babies/

http://journal.frontiersin.org/article/10.3389/fpsyg.2013.00597/full