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Meditation – Top 5 Ways To De-Stress

23/02/202422/08/2018 by Josephine McCarthy

We have all been aware for some time that meditation has proven benefits for dealing with stress management, and improvement in overall health.

There are many different types of meditation that are practised worldwide, and each discipline brings with it something unique.

It would appear that everybody is doing it, and as with most things in life some forms of meditations may feel more comfortable for you than others.

However when we see how many different ways of doing meditation there are, dozens of meditation techniques, including some conflicting information.

It begs the question, is it something for you, and if so which one is best suited for you?

When deciding which form of meditation to use, the first question you should ask yourself is

‘WHY’?

Why am I doing it, and what do I want to get out of it…

If like most people, it is to find a way to de-stress, then perhaps one of the five meditations we mention below, may be for you. Perhaps it is simply taking or using some, or a combination of the techniques discussed.

1 – Mindfulness Meditation

Somewhere in our recent past (very recent past) the word ‘Mindfulness’ suddenly appeared in our everyday vernacular, but what does it really mean? Fundamentally, it is a translation of the word ‘Sati’, a word in the Pali language of ancient India in which many original Buddhist texts were written – roughly translated as ‘awareness. It is used to describe the sense of ‘Living in the Moment of Now’, or having present moment awareness. It’s practitioners claim that with practice, it can be used in any situation, and can bring lasting stress relief and health benefits.

2 – Mantra meditation

A mantra is one of the most common forms used for meditation – and believed by people who use it to be one of the most powerful ones. The practice of mantra meditation is found in many of the world’s reflective traditions, and also in the practice of meditation in a secular context. It has been proven effective as a stress relief technique. Some people may feel odd at first repeating a word aloud, or even under their breath, but for those who enjoy having a focus during practice, mantra meditation can be a perfect way to do this. It also allows you to focus on a word whose meaning resonates strongly with you, like, “Hope”, “Love”, “Peace”, “Let Go” …. it does not really matter just as long as it works for you.

3 – Metta Meditation

Knows as the ‘Loving Kindness Meditation’ – Metta is another word that comes from Pali, which means kindness, benevolence, and good will. This form of compassion meditation has been tested scientifically to demonstrate the efficacy of metta and related meditative practices. People who use this form of meditation say it’s benefits include the following – boosting one’s ability to empathise with others, it helps to develop positive emotions through compassion, which includes a more loving attitude towards oneself. Increased self-acceptance, a greater feeling of contentment about one’s life, and an increased feeling of a purpose in life

4 – Taoist Meditations

The Chinese philosophy of Daoism (which is also practised as a religion) and dates back to Lao Tzu, is the practise of living in harmony with Nature. The purpose is to quieten the mind and body, to unify the body and spirit and find inner peace. Some styles of Taoist Meditation are specifically focused on improving health and increasing longevity.

5 – The 5-Minute Meditation

Now whether you choose to try a particular form of meditation or not, in your quest to relax and de-stress. Anything that is called the ‘5 Minutes Meditation’ is worth a try … there are two main benefits to five-minute meditations – firstly, they can be effective for relieving stress quickly when you don’t have a lot of time on your hands. Secondly, well do you really need a ‘secondly’ when it takes just 5 minutes, to calm down, lower your blood pressure and think more clearly. What is the ‘5 minuet meditation’? well basically – you get yourself into a comfortable position, close your eyes and relax. Take a few deep breaths from your diaphragm, become aware of the tension in your body, and then slowly and gently release it. Try to visualise the tension leaving your body from your head to your toes, leaving in it’s place a feeling of warm, peaceful relaxation.

Don’t worry about whether you are doing it correctly or not, meditation is something we know how to do naturally, we just do not take the time to do it…

So from everyone here at PAIRFUM LONDON, we say relax ” Take time to smell the Roses” – you deserve it….

Review of Top 10 Essential Oils – Keep Young and Beautiful

23/02/202416/08/2018 by Josephine McCarthy

Essential Oils – we have heard about them read about them, and most lightly we have used or do use them in our day to day lives.

If you have ever had a professional therapeutic massage or a treatment at your local beautician, maybe you have even been lucky enough to visit a spa..

Then whether you realise it or not the chances are you have had essential oils, applied, massaged or mixed in with your treatment.

Since time immemorial ‘Woman & Mankind’, have been searching for the Elixir of life…..

A magic potion that would help them – Keep Young and Beautiful.

If you would like to find out which one of the Reviewed Top 10 Essential Oils – claims to have ‘Youth Renewing’ properties then read on…

A large number of our customers that run Spa’s or Treatment centres, use the PAIRFUM London Healthy Diffusers and Candles, because they are made using Essential Oils.

Essential Oils are in essence the concentrated liquid extracted from plants, which are highly aromatic and can be used for certain medicinal, pharmacological and culinary purposes.

They have been used for centuries in the creation of Perfumes, Soaps, Lotions, and when processed in a particular way, they are safe to use in cooking, much like the way you may use vanilla or almond extract.

So many articles are written about ‘Wellness’ , and finding ways to promote good health, to help you relax and de-stress after a busy day. Could using Essential Oils be the answer?

Are there any benefits to using Essential Oils, and if so what are they?

We have picked the following ‘Ten Essential Oils’, some you may be familiar with, some less so, whatever the case may be hopefully you will enjoy finding out a little more about them…….

1. Basil Oil:

Every cook knows how wonderful this herb is in cooking, it has also been claimed that use of the oil helps with or alleviates, nausea, motion sickness, indigestion, constipation, relieves cold symptoms, infections, relieves stress, improves blood circulation and helps alleviate Pain… to name but a few. So quite a wide range of uses for this wonderful little plant.

2. Peppermint Oil

If you were asked to describe – Fresh, Green, Sparkling – then for most people peppermint would spring to mind. Used for it’s cooling effects and to help relieve sore muscles. It is well known for it’s ability to aid in digestion, and some claim that it triggers satiety. ( If so – this is one to add to the shopping list). Users also swear by it’s antimicrobial properties, which is why it can be used to fight infections and even freshen your breath. This is one of the reasons we find that little tray of mints on offer at the end of a meal in a restaurant.

3. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus actually refers to a large genus of flowering trees that has over 700 different species, most of which are located in Australia and New Zealand. The oil has historically been used for infections, upset stomach, asthma, joint pain and burns. Known as one of the more versatile essential oils, it’s often found in mouthwashes, etc.. However as with all essential oils it should not be applied directly to the skin, or ingested without first consulting a doctor or specialist.

4. Frankincense Oil

Very few of us have not heard or read about the story of ‘The Three Wise Men’ or ‘The Three Kings’, one of whom brought frankincense as a gift for Jesus of Nazareth. This essential oil is an aromatic resin used in incense and perfumes obtained from trees, sometimes referred to as Olibanum. Some of the claims made for this oil are that it can offer a variety of health benefits, including helping relieve chronic stress and anxiety, reducing pain and inflammation, and boosting immunity. Some claim that it aids concentration, and that it may help you focus on the task at hand. ( Well, with that in mind – I will also add this one to my shopping list) it’s worth a shot.

5. Juniper oil

A juniper berry is the female seed cone produced by the various species of junipers, not a true berry, but is in fact a cone that looks like a berry (glad we could clear that up for you!) The uses for this oil range from a cleansing and detoxifying agent, to a natural skin toner that reduces the appearance of skin blemishes. Which may be the reason it is found in a variety of skincare products. It may also be the reason some people have the odd restorative ‘G&T’ now and again – just saying….

6. Lavender Oil

If you have not heard of or used Lavender Oil, then the one question that we have to ask is “Where have you been?” One of the most well known aromas worldwide, and we must also mention one of the most polarising aromas (as some people have a well known ‘Marmite Moment’ when you mention it) is used to calm, relax and de-stress. One of PAIRFUM’s best selling products is the Lavender Pillow Spray – For A Deep Night’s Sleep so if you do want to drift off peacefully into the land of nod – then look no further.

7. Lemon Oil

Lemons like most citrus fruit, remind us of Sunshine, Health and Vitality, believed to boost immunity, lemon essential oil can be added to a cup of tea, a glass of water or beer – come to think of it – just about any drink that you want to add a sparkle to. It’s also commonly found in household cleaners, this may be due to the fact that the oils are easier to extract, and for that reason less expensive to produce. The aroma of Lemons is always uplifting and energising.

8. Carrot seed Oil

We have all heard that eating carrots helps maintain or improve our eyesight, well claims for this essential oil also include it’s ‘Youth’ promoting effects, as it contains antioxidant properties. (Note to self – add extra carrots to the shopping list). It is also said to help relieve joint conditions. So! to Keep Young and Beautiful….. it really can’t hurt to put carrots at the top of the shopping list for now….

9. Rose Oil

One of the most expensive ingredients in the Perfumery industry, Rose Oil is the essential oil extracted from the petals of various types of roses. It may be extracted through steam distillation, while rose absolutes are obtained through solvent extraction, the absolute being used more commonly in perfumery. Despite the high price and the advent of organic synthesis, rose oils are still perhaps the most widely used essential oil in perfumery. The Essential Oils are used in a number of applications, as it is believed to be an excellent emollient, a moisturiser for dry skin, contain anti-inflammatory properties to help treat redness and inflammation. Along with possessing antiseptic and astringent properties. Remember that what ever life brings, we should all “Take time to smell the roses”

10. Tea Tree Oil:

Has become more widely know in recent years, a native to Southeast Queensland and the Northeast coast of New South Wales, Australia. It is extracted from the leaves of the’Tea Tree’ or the Melaleuca alternifolia. It is reputed to have antibacterial properties used for scrapes and cuts. It has also been claimed to work on everything from toothaches to head lice…. but as we have mentioned before, as with all Essential Oils it comes with a word of warning – it may cause you to have a severe reactions, so never take or use any Essential Oils without first checking with your Doctor if this is suitable for you to use.

As with everything in ‘LIFE’ it is better to be ‘Safe than Sorry’….. so … A word of caution

While essential oils are generally considered safe to use, they shouldn’t be ingested in large quantities. It should also be noted that they should not be applied to the skin directly, as they may be an irritant or a sensitiser. If you’re thinking about regularly using an oil, you should always insure that you research the usage guidelines and potential risks, especially if there are children or pets in your home.

A NOTE about PREGNANCY:
As not all oils are safe for use during pregnancy. It’s probably safer to refrain from using any oils, since there is no solid evidence of their safety. Plus, pregnant women do tend to be more sensitive to smells and substances during this time. If in doubt always check with your Doctor.

If you would like to know more about the PAIRFUM London Collection – please get in touch we would love to hear from you.

Warren Buffett, PAIRFUM and the Me Too Movement (or #MeToo)

08/08/2018 by Josephine McCarthy

In an article in the Platinum Business Magazine’s ‘The Big Story’ , Warren Buffett, PAIRFUM and the Me Too Movement (or #MeToo) were mentioned..O.K, so maybe PAIRFUM was not mentioned in the same exalted company as Mr Buffett and the reference to #MeToo, refers to using the power of Women in Business and Life, rather than wasting this immense untapped pool of talent.

However that article did strike a cord with us….

Not only is it about encouraging and empowering Women, it is also about optimism and positivity.

Mr Buffett stated that – “It’s one of the things that makes me optimistic about America because when I look at what we have accomplished using half our talent for a couple of centuries, and now I think of doubling the talent that is effectively employed — or at least has the chance to be — it makes me very optimistic about this country,”.

He also said that “Life is a lottery, I had a 50% chance of being born Female with the same IQ and talent, which would have made career options as limited as they were for my sisters”.

He mentioned that his sisters who were born around the same time as him the 1930, were given the advice to marry early and marry well.

Although society has come a long way since then, Buffett recalls a time when women were kept out of the workforce and predominantly told to depend on marriage as their path to livelihood.

He has also spoken about his own shortcomings in encouraging and empowering women. During the first ‘United States of Women Summit’ in 2016 at the White House, which was a summit held in Washington, D.C. that focused on gender equality in the United States.

Warren confessed that he only thought to put a woman on the Berkshire Hathaway board in 2003 almost 40 years after taking over the company, and this he confesses was not his own idea but that of his wife Susie.

In an essay for Fortune Magazine in 2013, Buffett argued that “women are a major reason we will do so well” he also warned that the great “enemy of change” lives in “the ingrained attitudes of those who simply can’t imagine a world different from the one they’ve lived in.”

When so much in today’s World appears negative and derisive, it is heart warming to see successful people like Warren Buffett who place such stock in ‘Integrity and Ethics’ in business.

He has also said that “If you’re in the luckiest 1% of humanity, you owe it to the rest of humanity to think about the other 99%”.

If that is the case then we all owe a debt of gratitude to the wonderful ‘Women’ in our lives, to our Great Grandmothers, Grandmothers, Mothers, Sisters and to any Women who was brave enough to take that first step for us.As Warren Buffet once said…..

“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”

So from all the Women and Men here at PAIRFUM London – “Thank You”

Should How We Wear Perfume change during a Heatwave?

01/08/2018 by Josephine McCarthy

It may seem like a funny question to ask, but should how we wear Perfume change during a heatwave?

However there are very good reasons to change what you wear during hot weather, for example our skin temperature is naturally higher when we are out in the Sun, and Perfume on your skin will evaporate faster and can appear stronger.

The temperature of your skin and of the air, affects the way molecules evaporate and consequently the way perfume smells.

So – Should How We Wear Perfume change during a Heatwave?

Most people would say that there are no hard and fast rules for summer perfume.

It will really depend on everything from your location, your personal taste, to your culture.

The following are a few top tips from Huib Maat of PAIRFUM London:

Always remember the “Less is More” rule when it comes to ‘Perfume & Hot Weather’.

When deciding which Perfume to choose – one insiders secret – and don’t tell your partners I told you..

Don’t forget to check the Men’s section of the Perfumery counter, or maybe just borrow some from someone! – you may happen to know…..

WHY, I hear you ask?

Well – Citrus, fresh Green or Aquatic notes are perfect in the heat, and most classical or modern male colognes contain these…

Try it! you may be very surprised how much you love them – on you.. and (your partner may also be very surprised when his goes missing!!)

We have been conditioned over the years to associate certain perfumes or notes, with certain meteorological conditions.

Fresh, light, cool fragrances are synonymous with warm weather, and the heavier, sultry, warmer notes with colder days.

However- never be afraid to experiment – just as with the idea of using a Men’s cologne..

Wearing a perfume or fragrance that contains notes such as incense, woods or spices, can be perfect Summer fare.

Just remember the most important tip of all – is to relax and have fun with your summer perfume.

What Your Perfume Says about You

23/02/202427/07/2018 by Josephine McCarthy

What Your Perfume Says about You – you may be surprised… but it speaks volumes and is very telling!

Like your clothes, your favourite tipple, the music you listen to or the books you read, your choice of fragrance says a lot about the type of person you are.

It’s almost impossible to pick a fragrance without it being a reflection of your life experience, or one that does not contain certain aspects of your personality.

You may have heard the phrase “you are what you eat”, well we here at PAIRFUM London believe that “You are what you wear” – in regards to Perfume that is…It is also the reason why !!

Before PAIRFUM London creates a ‘Perfume’, our Perfumer always has in mind a profile of the type of person, he is creating the fragrance for. It is like a vocation or some may even say a religious calling, to match the fragrance notes to the personality or spirit of the wearer.

When deciding on which Perfume to ‘Wear’ or ‘Buy’, your decision may not be as random or simple as you think….

Numerous studies, and countless hours over the the last 30 years have been spent on researching the effects of the sense of smell and taste on human emotion, mood, behaviour, and related disease.

From researchers conducting personality tests on subjects, and then comparing them with the results of tests carried out on participants who took part in a study of ‘fragrance and flavor preferences’. With one researcher describing the tests as a ‘Rorschach’ test but using odour.

How? you may ask could a ‘Personality’ test and your ‘Fragrance’ preferences be related?

Research into why we chose one particular aroma over another, has fascinated scientists and researchers for decades.

It stands to reason that we will obviously have a better understanding of someone, if you know their likes and dislikes. If this is the case, then it must also stand to reason why, ‘Understanding’ ourselves and our ‘Personalities’ would help us make more informed decisions.

This relates to every aspect of our lives, relationships, decision making, work, rest and play…

If you are looking for that ‘Someone Special’, and have ventured out on that first date….

You meet ‘Ms or Mr. Possibly Perfect’ for the first time and smell their ‘perfume or cologne’, and instantly even if you are not always aware of it.. you know much more about their personality than you think…..

DO YOU KNOW YOUR PERSONALITY TYPE?

IF NOT – WOULD YOU LIKE TO KNOW WHAT IT IS?

The following is the ‘Myers-Briggs’ personality chart:

Which one are you? are you a………..

ESTJ: A true leader, they recognises the strength of the individual, as well as that of the group.

ISTJ: A hard worker very reliable and dependable, a true Friend.

ESFJ: A person who enjoy helping others, are the perfect role model.

ISFJ: Have the ability to connect with others on an intimate level, is supportive and one of the worlds peacemakers.

ESTP: Are full of passion and energy, have rational if sometimes distracted mind, wonderful at Inspiring others, are natural group leaders.

ISTP: Are known for their creativity, sense of humour, hands-on approach and their strong sense of direct fairness

ISFP: Live a life full of colour and are inspired by connections with people and ideas, sensitive to others feelings and appreciate harmony

ESFP: Lives in the moment and excitement of life, are generous, encouraging and has irresistible style.

INFJ: Decisive, full of creativity, imagination and conviction.

ENTP: Loves to play ‘Devil’s advocate’, are honest, independent and love to brainstorm ideas and think big.

ENTJ: Are natural-born leaders, with a personality type that embodies the gifts of charisma and confidence.

INFP: The worlds true idealists, who will always look for the good in even the worst of people and events.

ENFJ: Born leaders, that are full of passion and charisma and are naturally confident.

ENFP: Is a true free spirit, enjoying social and emotional connections, they are also charming, independent, energetic and compassionate.

INTP: Inventiveness, creativity with a unique perspective and vigorous intellect.

INTJ: A natural thirst for knowledge, are starry-eyed idealists that think nothing is impossible, look at life like a a giant chess board.

Understanding a personality type, our own, that of someone we love or someone we have just met. Could help us navigate more easily the day to day interaction in our work and social life.