Mind, Body & Spirit

[From top left, clockwise] 1. Mindfulness in 8 weeks by Michael Chaskalson 2. The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield 3. Feel the Fear and do it anyway by Susan Jeffers 4.  The Power by Rhonda Byrne I'm back in the mind, body & spirit section of the book store again.  If you are not familiar with my wavering beliefs, in Spirituality and Christianity you can read about it HERE for some background information.

Take the time to read. Please.

                               

                                     

If someone tells me that they do not read, I'm flabbergasted.  "What do you mean you don't read?!" "How can you not like reading?!"  I genuinely do not understand people who do not read, and I mean that in the least judgmental way possible.  The joy of reading a good book is immeasurable.  The excitement of following a dramatic story or a creepy thriller or even a disturbing horror can not compare to watching a film. 

As a child my mother used to read to me a lot.  When I was old enough to choose my own books, I would sit for hours devouring one after the other.  I can remember reading all the books I owned twice, when I didn't have the money to buy new ones.  I was the girl in the library as a teenager, exiting with a stack of 8 books and returning them two weeks later, all completely read.  Writing and books were my thing.  They still are!  My mother would marvel at the speed at which I read.  I have passed down the reading habits she instilled in me, to my little Unicorn lovers.  I read to them often and have enforced upon them, the practice of going to the library.  We enjoy taking trips to obscure libraries and leaving with backpacks full of great reads.

Reading is not just about the book; its the whole process of finding somewhere comfortable and having something to drink and losing yourself for a few minutes or hours.  The one time your mind will be free of thoughts and worries is when you are stuck in a book.  How can you deny the mind such a pleasure?

Play out your dream life in paper.  Read about people in similar situations.  Learn something from the wise.

It is equally as satisfying to sit in a quiet park, alone on a picnic rug,  with a cold drink and your latest read, as opposed to sitting in the corner of the sofa with your favourite hot drink in total silence, with a wonderful paperback.

Whatever your interests are, there is a book out there just for you.  I promise.  I PROMISE.  Take the time to walk around a book shop and select something that catches your eye.  Read the first few pages, scan the first few chapters...  Not instantly captivated? No matter, pick another,  Take it home and make some time to get involved in your new story.  Feel your inhibitions melt away.  Its just you and your book.  Focus on the words as they tell their story.  Visualise the tale playing out, put yourself in the characters' shoes.  Take your time if you please-  It doesn't matter when you finish it, no one is judging you.  You will soon find yourself going back for more and more, until one day...you'll find you've completed your mission.  You are now a reader :)


I would love to hear what you are all reading.  Let me know what books have been the most memorable or what you are currently reading.

Much love and happy reading!

Peachy x

Those Life Changing Reads.



 

There are times in your life where you are drawn to certain books, for whatever reason, and when you get into the book, things around you start to make sense.  Have you ever felt that?  Some books just speak to your heart.  This one sung to my Unicorn's hoofs.

I will admit, it took me a couple of months to finish it, but I'm okay with that.  I find that these kind of books call out for you when you need them. 

Last weekend I was feeling like I didn't know my purpose in life, like I didn't have what I wanted.  I spoke to my friend and she told me to just be thankful.  Focus on what you do have, and be thankful for it.  You have to learn to love life- that starts with appreciation of your blessings.  We are all blessed whether we recognise it or not.  Many people will go through the pain of not having the life, that you are being ungrateful for.  We must remember that happiness is a feeling, like upset, sadness and excitement.  Feelings do not last forever.  Enjoy happiness while it is present.  Understand that it isn't never ending, but that it is coming back!  The sooner we can accept this, then we will soon notice happiness come and go more often.  After that conversation, the next day I picked up Manuscript Found in Accra and the chapter I was at, supported much of what my friend had said. 

The story of a man who offers wisdom and reality to a group of people who await their countries invasion, is well worth the read.  Get yourself a copy, take a deep breath and get stuck in.

Much love. xxx

The Reading Tag

I was excited when I came across this tag on Oh! Leona and thought "ooohhhh this is interesting!" :)

Sippin' on Pukka Three Cinnamon Tea while I read on the train

                           

1. Do you have a certain place for reading at home?

I love my sofa. My dream spot would be a window seat in a cosy little fireplaced, room, off a well stocked library in a large house.  Preferably my house.

2. Bookmark or random piece of paper? 
Both.  Whenever I visit a library or bookstore I collect a free book mark.  However, I am adept at making my own or using postcards or something written down that means something to me- a motto or personal reminder.

3. Can you just stop reading or do you have to stop after a chapter or certain number of pages?
I'll finish the paragraph.

4. Do you eat or drink when reading?
Nothing beats a cup of tea when settling down with a book.  The odd glass of wine can be special teamed with a good read.  If I am out in a park some cold and icy if the weather is nice.

5. Do you watch tv or listen to music when reading?
The tv will not com between a good book that holds my interest.  when travelling I will sometimes put my ear phones in to block out the world while I read.

6. One book at a time or several at once?
Several at a time.  As time has gone on I seem to have developed a short concentration span.  So I can jump from one book to another.  It depends what mood I'm in with regards to what I want to read. I try to limit myself to one non-fiction and one fiction at a time.

7. Reading at home or anywhere?
I can read anywhere.  On the train, in parks, libraries, buses, cars...yes anywhere.

8. Reading out loud or silently in your head?
Silently in my head.  If I am having trouble understanding something I will repeat it out loud.

9. Do you ever read ahead or skip pages?
I am not one for long winded descriptions so in parts like these I will skip ahead if I feel the book is worth reading still.  Sometimes you can find a really good story but its packed with useless descriptions and characters feelings so skipping that bit allows you to get back to the regular scheduled programming.

10. Breaking the spine or keeping it new?
Well.  Here's a revelation for you.  I have a kindle but still buy paperbacks. *horrified face*.  I absolutely love my kindle.  I got it for Christmas  just when Kindles made their debut and I was so delighted, because I was running out of room for any more books.  I still have it but I buy nonfiction books in paperback so I can make notes and go back and reference them later.  I buy the odd fiction paper when I spot a good deal, but only if it is cheaper than on Kindle (Kindle books are mostly always cheaper than print).  So, in regards to the question, ha, I don't tend to break the spine...I stretch it: not completely broken or completely new.

11. Do you write in your books?
Only in non-fiction books, for reference purposes.

12. What are you currently reading?
I currently have my nose in Manuscript Found in Accra by Paulo Coelho and The Book of Negroes by Lawrence Hill.



Picked this up today, and I am thoroughly enjoying it!

                              

I hope you liked reading about how reading makes me feel!  I tag anybody who wishes to take part: if you do, be sure to leave your link below.

Did you know I am now on Facebook?  Check out my page and give it a 'Like'!
www.facebook.com/TheRandomnessofUnicorns

30 Day Snap | Day 10

You already know I spend copious amounts of time in the bookshop; today I spotted this little guy on the top shelf looking all fluffy and.....retro?! I brought him down and gave him a little squish, then sat him on the chair for a photo :) He put a big smile on my face.

Are you all enjoying my 30 Day Snap?  I am having a lot of fun doing it.

Much love xxx

Thankful Thursday

It's been a fortnight like no other!  My college course is drawing to a close, my stress levels reached a high but thankfully subsided, I have had some magical moments and some really thought-provoking ones.



My fortnightly delights

This week I have taken some time out to concentrate on what really matters to me as well as the things that I have been neglecting.  So far so good! I have been focussing on growing as a person and evaluating my current position.  Here is what I have been thankful for these past couple of weeks:

 

Love

Love is such a beautiful thing. 

Sometimes we can unintentionally take it for granted, but

that doesn't mean we are not grateful for it.  Where would we be without
love?

 

Money

Whatever the amount my be.  I am grateful to be able to eat

and feed my family.

 

Books

There is a book for everything!  I do not know what I would do

without books or the ability to read.

 

My little people

One of which made my name out of lego.  How patient they have been while I tear

my hair out over coursework.  Love them.

 

My tutor

There are some tutors who it is ok to have a meltdown in front of and some

who don't care.  My tutor is the former.  Hats

off to him, seriously.

 

Family

Support, support, support.  The end is nigh, so I will see you all

at the end of June!

 

Have any of you had a any magical moments lately?  What are you thankful for?


Sending you all love and rainbows.  Much love  xxx



10 books you must read!! #1

Hey guys! Happy Monday to you all.  I hope you are enjoying your Bank holiday weekend (for all my UK viewers).

I was in the book shop Waterstones the other day, and although I'm not currently reading fiction, I was walking around recommending some books to my friends.  It was suggested I write a post about my recommendations so here I am! 

This is what I also got up to in the bookshop...

(For those wondering, I'm the one in the middle, that's Kayla on the left, and Jazz on the right)

Last year, I challenged myself to read 100 books.  This proved very difficult to work around college work and family life.  However, I did read a fair few.  Reading is my greatest pleasure.  I will pledge to make more time for it this week.

So!  From my catalogue of read books over the last year or so I shall make some recommendations.

1. Before I go to Sleep by S.J. Watson.

A married woman who has an accident, wakes up everyday to find she has forgotten her life.  How does she remember to function and what is her life like?  This book had me mouth open shocked by the ending.  I found it to be amazing.

2. Calling Me Home by Julie Kibler

Inspired by a true story.  Set in Kentucky 1939, a young rich white girl called Isabelle becomes attracted to her black house maids son.  Many years later, as an old woman, Isabelle travels to Ohio for a funeral where the results of her actions becomes apparent.  How far would you go for love?  I shed a few tears over this book.

3. Apple Tree Yard by Louise Doughty

Yvonne is a respected scientist who one day decides to begin a passionate affair with a man she meets in the houses of parliament.  Little does she know that as she loses herself in him she loses the ability to see what is right in front of her.  Her carelessness lands her on trial for murder.  I read this in two days because I could not put it down!

4.The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini 

The story of two Afghan boys who are the best of friends, and how their friendship is torn apart by jealousy, hierarchy and war and political influences.  A very touching read.

5. Sycamore Row by John Grisham

This is the sequel to A Time To Kill.  If you have not read that before I don't think it really matters.  The only link between these books is the characters.  But Grisham does give you a little detail about them, which is perfect for those who have not read the first book.

Jake Brigance is back! This time he has been left the will of a white man who wishes to leave everything to his black maid.  As always with Grisham books the legal storyline is superb.  And the drama surrounding the court is typical for Brigance.  Really enjoyed this one.

I'll leave it there for now, but I will post another 5 next week.  Is there anything you could recommend to me? Let me know in the comments, or tweet me! 

Much love everyone <3

Peachy x

Throw out the fiction and get real!

Today's affirmation is "I will throw out the fiction, and get real!"

Most of my free time is spent reading fiction, fiction, and more fiction. Occasionally I find myself holding a beautiful non-fiction book about spiritual progression, finding oneself or synchronicity.  I start these books with the best intention, but find myself side-tracked, leaving them half read. 

However, I am now pledging to finish them!  Not only that but I will review each one I read, for you guys (see, I'll have to read them now haha) :) 

I've recognised that my life needs some guidance at present and I've got some wonderful titles that hold the most magical material- 

1. Loveability by Robert Holden

2. The Celestine Prophecy by James Redfield

3. Synchrodestiny by Deepak Chopra

4. The Magic by Rhonda Byrne

5. The Tenth Insight by James Redfield

6. The Celestine Vision by James Redfield

7. The Ultimate Happiness Prescription by Deepak Chopra

8. Manuscript Found in Accra by Paulo Coelho (I'm sure this is non-fiction, but the story is told by way of fictional witting)

Three of the above I have already read but I have no problem re-reading and studying them again.

As we speak, (as I type) I am collecting up my library fiction to return tomorrow.  Only to be checked out in the event I complete my new book list.  

So, look out for my up coming review posts!  Let me know what you think of my new venture. Maybe you will read a couple of titles with me, or you may have already?

Happy Tuesday people. 

And much love as always.

Peachy xx

Thankful Thursday

Hey lovely people :) 

After posting last Friday instead of Thursday, I've decided to do my Thankful Thursday every fortnight.  The last two weeks have been very busy and definitely eventful!  I've tried to make a real effort to remember to be thankful.  Especially in moments where I catch myself taking things for granted.  Sometimes I am on autopilot, but I'm practising being in the moment and feeling thankful.

This fortnight I have been thankful for...

Libraries.  I think being able to take home and read a book for free is amazing.  People need never buy books again!  I am always encouraging people to read, not just for study but for pleasure.  I love nothing more than to spend time perusing the book shelves of a library: reading is my favourite pastime.

My wonderful friend Kayla ( a little message to you as I know you are reading)  I could laugh forever with you!  Thank you for being such a good friend.  You are honest, respectful and so generous.  This week you have really diffused my stress levels.  When I forget to act with love, you remind me.  I hope you enjoy your moustache ;) 

                  Always remember!

Water.  Last Saturday was world water day.  During the day I spent some time beside a canal and I thought how blessed I was to be able to watch water flow...while other people do not even have any to drink.  How mad is that?!  We switch on a tap at our leisure and some people walk miles to source water.  One of the many injustices of the world.  I am thankful for water whenever I turn on a tap, run a bath, or walk by a waterway.

                                      Free water complete with wading ducks.

A roof over my head.  This is another big thing I am thankful for.  I am blessed with a lovely home, running water, electricity and comfort.  

My neighbour.  There are some neighbours that are the 'Hi' and 'Bye' type, and there are those that become friends (that was unintentional, but I bet you're all singing the song now).  I have a neighbour who is just wonderful! She is more than just a neighbour and I am very thankful for her.  

My bed.  At the end of everyday I slip into my sheets and thank god.  It is difficult to wake up in the morning and continue your day, whilst you are tired.  The hardest thing is going through the day wanting to be in bed asleep.  I try to avoid this happening because it makes me feel rubbish.  But sometimes I am up late working and thats when sleep has to take a backseat.  I really will be making sure I can spend more time with my bed next week.

My phone.  I recently got a new phone, and I am fascinated by its ability.  The camera is amazing.  I have been taking loads of pictures lately.  Everyone keeps commenting on how clear my camera is and I love it! It means a lot to me to take photos so I do it often (also, probably getting carried away taking selfies).  Apps, camera and music: all luxuries I am grateful for.  

My mister.  His support this week has been invaluable!  He has been my driving force in the lonely graveyard hours while I study, my common sense during indecisive moments and my inspiration when I have hit a brick wall.  I am so blessed.   

Always live in the moment.  All we have is right now.  

Lots of love.

Peachy xx