These are extremely unusual circumstances and during this “lockdown” period it’s easy to feel cooped up, stressed and unmotivated. Instead of succumbing to the trapped feeling and unproductivity why not use this period of time to reflect, refresh, and try out some productive activities to keep you moving forward positively.

More and more people are discovering and understanding the detrimental effects plastic waste has on our environment, seas, and wildlife. Consequently, more people are looking for quick and easy alternatives in order to cut back on their plastic usage or eradicate it altogether in order to do their bit in helping save the planet and live in a more natural, litter-free environment.

Over the last two years podcast popularity has grown to new heights. Audiobook and podcast-style consumption rose by 43% in 2017-2018 as publishers are recognising the need to branch out and penetrate new markets. Publishers such as Harper Collins and Penguin Random House have adopted their own in-house podcasts that allow readers to read books as well as listen and get to know their authors. In line with the theme of positive and progressive blogging it is important to highlight the supply and demand for an increasing genre of uplifting podcasts that are becoming available.

Consumers are not only looking to purchase social and environmentally conscious products but also relatable content. In an industry where content is sold purely to make a profit it is important to remember that there are publishing organisations out there who offer an alternative, not-for-profit approach to journalism and publishing.

I don’t know about you but I struggle to be productive for at least the first 2 hours after getting up out of bed in the morning. It’s so easy to wake up on a weekend and reach over, rip your phone off charge, and spend half an hour scrolling mindlessly through Instagram or switching on the TV and watching good morning Britain until the unproductive guilt kicks in. After a prolonged period of screen time, I find it increasingly hard to motivate myself to have an extremely productive day if I do not start straight out of bed. So, how can you have a relaxed morning that leaves you feeling energised and motivated for the rest of your day? Well…

Herbal teas have been around for centuries. Herbal teas can be made from anything including; dried fruits, flowers, spices and herbs. Herbal teas come in a variety of tastes and flavours and many contain ingredients claiming to have amazing health benefits! So why not, during a time of health uncertainty, try a delicious new tea with health-promoting ingredients that help to support your body and immune system.

Since the publication of Spread the Word’s writing the future report in 2015, publishers all around the world have made huge steps towards a more diverse and equal workplace. In order to do this publishers must encompass all areas, from; recruitment to un-bias training. Publisher’s, as a result, have been seen as more open and progressive in comparison to other business-based industries.

Let’s be honest winter time is the saddest time of the year, we all take for granted how sunlight (or lack thereof) can significantly affect our mood. As people we need regular fresh air and sunlight to feel and perform at our best and during winter months, honestly, it’s just hard to find the motivation to go outside and brave the freezing cold temperatures just to get our “recommended” daily sunshine intake. It’s not just the ramblings of the likes of me – it’s scientifically proven, there’s even a name for it – S.A.D (Season Affective Disorder).

How do you define “self-care”? What does it mean? How do you do it? How do you find the time? Does self-care really involve eating a tonne of greens, a fresh manicure, an abundance of crystals, and regular meditation? So many people use the word “self-care” but ultimately, we all struggle to find the balance when attempting to prioritise a little TLC.

Some might think the term “blogging” has only come into being in recent years however the concept of blogging has been traced back to 1997, originally named the “weblog”. The term began when John Barger came up with the genius idea of collating his favourite web content and creating commentary solely based around these interests. This idea was seen less as a job and more as a hobby to log your web experience, hence the “weblog”. Come 1999, Peter Merholz entered the “blogosphere” and the idea of the “blog” was finally born.