Life in the Philippine provinces

5 Reasons Why Living in Rural Provinces Can Be Your Best Choice

Living in the province has always been romanticized as a peaceful, laid-back alternative to the fast-paced, stress-filled environment of the city. While there are undeniable challenges to rural living, it's time to look beyond the negatives and explore the many benefits that come with life in one of the 82 provinces of the Philippines. If you plan to leave the cities in Metro Manila, here are five reasons why living in a rural province could be the best decision you'll ever make.

This blog is just a response to the article written by Kristoffer Jan Notario.

1. Closer connection to nature and a healthier lifestyle

The most important reason to move to the province is reconnecting with nature. Rural areas often have mountains, rice fields, or coastal regions nearby, so the view is always scenic and the air is always fresh. Nature connection through outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, or gardening, enhances a healthier lifestyle.

Being away from town also reduces exposure to noise pollution and the frantic pace which largely contributes to stress. Researchers have shown that having a period in nature brings down the levels of cortisol and helps in boosting global mental health. To stay an even more harmonized and conscious life, peace and tranquility surrounding such provinces cannot be over-shadowed.

2. Relatively Low Cost of Life

Probably one of the advantages of staying in the province is that it is cheap to live compared to being in the city. There is housing, and in general, cost of day-to-day activities such as food and transportation is affordable. It may not have a booming job market such as Metro Manila, but your income would stretch longer.

Provinces are filled with local produce and seafood sold at much cheaper prices, too. For people who love cooking or eating fresh and organic food, going to local markets would benefit them with the convenience of being able to acquire something they can prepare and taste. Also, community culture often involves sharing fruits, vegetables, or home-cooked meals with neighbors, saving more money for living costs.

3. Deeper Sense of Community

It is common for a number of years that people spend their lives living in apartments or houses with the same neighbors and maybe some friends in a city, but this is quite contrary to life in a province. It becomes deeply rooted in community values. These individuals in the provinces have known each other and cared for one another, thus calming them for such feelings.

From town fiestas to volunteer efforts and community-based projects, there are so many ways to get to know people and become part of a close-knit community. This connectedness is especially helpful for families that want to raise their children in a supportive and friendly environment. The communal atmosphere not only helps to build lasting relationships but also fosters responsibility towards helping one's community prosper.

4. Opportunities for a More Sustainable Lifestyle

The province is the perfect place for a more sustainable way of living. With open spaces and fertile land, rural areas provide opportunities for gardening, farming, and even raising livestock. Many people who move to the provinces find joy and fulfillment in growing their own food, which can significantly reduce reliance on store-bought goods and promote a healthier diet.

In addition to farming and gardening, the natural setting of a non-commercialized province automatically reduces one's carbon footprint. Commuting distances are short, and many of its residents bike or walk around, thus creating lesser air pollution. The province is perfect for those who give importance to environmental friendly practices and wish to have a simpler and more sustainable lifestyle.

5. Slow Pace of Life and Much More Meaning

It's really just racing amidst city life when people see work deadlines looming near. They go along amidst traffics in this or that, constantly bothered with every kind of activities buzzing there. With regard to life, though, one seems to appreciate having such opportunities for relaxation when going in for living within a slower provincial lifestyle-a slower style which helps provide greater depth to think better for your ideas as well as gain better balancing from it within the setting at large.

The peace and quiet of a rural life can be inspiration for those who work at home or have the means to pursue creative activities, such as writing, painting, or crafting. Individuals can focus on their passion without the pressure of hustle and bustle in a city, finding fulfillment away from work. This, in turn, can contribute to a more meaningful life, centered on what actually matters: relationships, self-care, and personal development.

Final Thoughts: The Province as an Option for Happiness

Even if it's more difficult to live in the province, the pros mostly offset the cons when individuals have a strong need to have life surrounded by nature, people, and ease. Provincial living has options to maintain a less costly way of life and supports an ecological lifestyle that further adds up to being there in terms of community familiarity, so it can serve not only as an option but as a great preference for those who value those kinds of things. Certainly, it is not for everybody, especially those who thrive on the conveniences of city living. However, for those who prioritize peace, health, and genuine human connection, the rural provinces of the Philippines offer a quality of life that is unmatched.

So, before you write off the idea of living in the province, take some time to weigh these positives. You might find that the great benefits align perfectly with the life you dream of—one rich with experience, community spirit, and meaningful simplicity.

Getting disconnected

The Power and Perils of Going "No Contact": Embracing Solitude or Losing Connection?

Introduction

This is bold to have no contact with friends, family members, or acquaintances for a long time in this hyper-connected world. Some people feel they want to unplug from everybody because they believe they need personal growth, an emotional detox, or life just drifts apart. Thus, this article will talk about what happens when we go no contact for a long time: the difference between healthy solitude and isolating ourselves potentially.

Blog topics on the subject:

1. When No Contact Is Therapeutic: Rediscovery of Yourself in the Isolation. The article would go on to speak about the ideal time that can come in the form of no contact at all for finding deeper meanings, emotional healing, and new direction. This post can have an especial positive effect especially after bad relations from loneliness and introspection.
2. Science of Solitude: Long Periods of No Contact and the Impact on Mental Health. This article would explain the psychological consequences of extended isolation, negative as well as positive, continuing further to the facts which research claims about social withdrawal and how it affects the mind.
3. Is It Intentional Loneliness or Accidental Isolation? Recognizing When "No Contact" Hurts More Than It Helps. This is going to help the reader find out when no contact periods have crossed over from a healthy break into an unhealthy pattern of isolation. In this, it is one of the positive approaches toward reconnecting with the world in the right ways.
4. Friendship Fades: Coping with the Grief of Lost Connections After Going No Contact. It speaks to the pain and acceptance you may feel when you finally realize that friendships have really faded during a long break. It provides ways either to rekindle or gently let go of such relationships.
5. The Art of Setting Boundaries: Going No Contact Without Burning Bridges. This book is a guide for you to take a break from people in a respectful way that doesn't burn the bridges. Perfect for those readers who need solitude without causing hurt or misunderstanding.
6. Reconnecting After No Contact: How to Make Contact When You're Ready to Rebuild Relationships. This is a useful book with real advice on reconnecting with people when it feels like a long time. Discusses the awkwardness associated with reaching out and gives suggestions on how to go about it confidently.
7. Why We Fear Missing Out (FOMO) When Going No Contact—and How to Overcome. It Analyzes how the absence of contact for protracted periods often brings anxiety about not knowing what else is happening in other's lives, and how embracing your choice without regret may be made possible.
8. From Silence to Strength: No Contact as Building Blocks to Emotional Independence. Explains how time by oneself is a great chance to achieve emotional independence with resilience and self-reliance in place. Helpful for someone looking to grow inner strength outside of a need for external validation.
9. The Benefits of Digital Detox: How to Go No Contact in the Age of Social Media. Explores how the unique challenge of having to go "no contact" in a world full of social media can offer a path toward deeper growth.
10. How Gradually Increased No Contact Makes You Change Your Perspective toward Life and Relationships. Speaks to the fact that removing a person from constant socialization brings a clarity on relationships, priorities, and self-esteem, hence the change is transformative.
11. Changing Priorities: Who Matters When Months of No Contact Pass. Explains clarity that long periods of isolation with someone bring to their relationships in terms of importance or even health.
12. Rediscover Beauty of Silence: Appreciating Silence in a Loudly Connected World. Discusses the peaceful and contemplative aspects of silence and aloneness, where profound peace and contentment lie.
13. Cut Contact with Toxic Family Members; Healthy Boundaries in Regards to Mental Health. This blog is for those who go no contact to distance themselves from toxic family dynamics, discussing the struggles and emotional fallout of detaching from family.
14. Finding Contentment in Solitude: How to Enjoy Being Alone Without Feeling Lonely. Challenge readers to make the best of their time alone, engaging in self-care, hobbies, and personal growth, so that solitude is fulfilling, not lonely.
15. When No Contact Is Required: Understanding When Walking Away Is Needed for One's Sanity. Looks into situations where no contact should be required in order for emotional sanity, including examples such as abuse, manipulation, or burnout scenarios.
16. Breaking the Silence: What to Say When You Reconnect with Someone After an Extended No-Contact Period. Practical advice for those who want to reconnect after an extended absence, including conversation starters and handling the initial awkwardness.
17. Embracing Minimalism in Relationships: Quality Over Quantity in Connections. A minimalist approach to social life—why it's better to have a few meaningful relationships than to maintain contact with everyone, and how going no contact can help simplify our social circles.
18. How to be Your Best Friend during No Contact Periods. Practice self-compassion, learn to rely on oneself, and discover friendship within the self for true fulfillment.
19. The No Contact Experiment: What Happens When You Cut Ties with Everyone for a Month? An experiment log detailing the thoughts and emotional process one will undertake while carrying out total no contact for a predetermined time.
20. From Ghosting to Growth: How to Engage with No Contact in an Emotionally Intelligent Way. Distinguishes between ghosting and taking a thoughtful leave, which means maturity and respect for no contact.
21. Rebuilding Your Social Life After Going No Contact: Steps to Strengthen New and Old Bonds. A handbook for the returnee from solitude who wants to rebuild a stronger and more meaningful social life with renewed purpose and confidence.

Conclusion: To adopt "no contact" with purpose

It feels like when you are staying no contact for such a long period that you are undergoing extreme experiences. It makes ample time to think about one's life, understand yourself, and realize your strength inside. We must put the time to good use so that the pros of isolation do not outweigh the risk of becoming reclusive. Using this space can make one even more connected by learning, recentering priorities, and growth-to everyone and to him- or herself.

Each of the aforementioned topics shall give you an entirely different and fascinating understanding of the no contact from others for your goal healing, clarifying, or just relieving yourself of the ever-present chatter all around. Whatever your intent may be, never forget these words of wisdom: authentic happiness never comes from a person; it comes instead from filling your life with inner calm and purpose.

We have 41 ways to celebrate

41 Fabulous Ways to Celebrate Your 41st Birthday

Forty-one is one of those special ages that call for a very unique and memorable celebration. No matter whether you are looking to celebrate your day with adventure or relaxation, we have 41 fantastic ideas on how to make your 41st birthday unforgettable:

1. Plan a weekend retreat to the coziest cabin, a beachside resort, or another energetic city you've always wanted to see.
2. Throw a Theme Party: Choose a unique and interesting theme that defines your interest. It could be 80s retro, masquerade ball, or tropical luau.
3. Wine Tasting Tour: You could spend your day around the local vineyards, tasting fine wines, or alternatively take up a trip to some famous wine region.
4. Take a Cooking Class: Learn to prepare a gourmet meal or a new cuisine with friends or family.
5. Book a Spa Day: It's time to rejuvenate yourself with massages, facials, and all other lavish treatments.
6. Arrange a Movie Marathon: Invite lots of people over to have a movie marathon of your favorite movies, or simply get into a big binge of some new series.
7. Set Up a Game Night: Gather your favorite board games, card games, or video games and enjoy a night full of fun competition.
8. Go Skydiving: Freefall from an airplane, and drop down to form a memory you will never forget.
9. Potluck Dinner: Get friends and family over and enjoy everyone's favorite dishes.
10. Road Trip: Take out, and head to new places, stopping wherever you feel like.
11. Try a New Hobby: Engage in a new hobby—painting, knitting, or playing any musical instrument.
12. Have a Picnic: Have nice picnic by packing delicious food and going to a beautiful park or beach.
13. Throw a Dance Party: Set up a DJ or make a playlist of your favorite songs and dance all night.
14. Go for a Hike: Explore nature with a hike at a national park or some nice scenic trail.
15. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: Observe breathtaking views of the world from above in a hot air balloon.
16. Attend a concert—It's time to see your favorite band or artist live.
17. Take a Photo Shoot: Book a professional photographer, or take it into your hands with a self-managed photo shoot to document this time of life.
18. Go to a Comedy Show: Laughter is great for the soul, so let a live show give you something to belly laugh about.
19. Book a Staycation: Treat yourself to a stay in one of the classy local hotels and indulge in what luxuries are offered.
20. Try an Escape Room: Challenge yourself and friends to a fun, exciting adventure in an escape room.
21. Backyard BBQ: Casual BBQ firing up the grill for a good time with family and friends.
22. Glamping: Experience the outdoors in style; real camping with creature comforts - very glamorous.
23. Volunteer: Give back to your community by spending a day of volunteer work that interests you.
24. Watch a live sports game of your favorite team.
25. Take a day trip to some nearby town or famous places.
26. Experience a nice dinner in that high-end restaurant one has always wanted to visit.
27. Spend the day at the beach, soaking in the sun, swimming, or relaxing near the ocean.
28. Visit an Amusement Park: Tye one on with some really great times riding roller coasters and playing games at this amusement park.
29. Take a Dance Class: Learn a new dance style, whether it be salsa, ballroom, or hip-hop.
30. Go Fishing: Enjoy a day of peace while fishing at a lake or river near you.
31. Host a Talent Show: Invite your friends over to show off their stuff in a fun, non-judgmental setting.
32. Go on a Scavenger Hunt: Organize a scavenger hunt around the city or in your neighborhood.
33. Visit a Museum: Take the whole day to explore the exhibits of your local museum or art gallery.
34. Have a DIY Craft Day: Let out your creativity with an all-day craft-making day of DIY projects.
35. Go Horseback Riding: Enjoy a dignifying ride through nature on horseback.
36. Attend a Workshop: Sign up for a workshop related to a field you are interested in, be it photography, gardening, or writing.
37. Run a Charity Fundraiser: Use your birthday to raise funds for something that really means a lot to you.
38. Go on a Shopping Spree: Treat yourself to a day of shopping and indulgence in that special something.
39. Karaoke Night: Sing away with friends at a karaoke bar or home.
40. Take a Yoga Retreat: Let loose and rejuvenate with a yoga retreat or spending a mindfulness and meditation day.
41. Reflect and Set Goals: Take a little time to reflect on the past year and set some goals for the future as you celebrate your journey and look toward what's yet to come.

Beat the hot weather this heat season

Experiencing temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in the Philippines can be extremely challenging, as it poses health risks and issues such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Here are some suggestions for staying safe and cool in areas where temperatures soar above 40 degrees Celsius as follows.

1. Drink plenty of water. Stay hydrated by drinking at least 8-10 glasses of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty. Carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go.
2. Avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages: Limit consumption of caffeinated drinks and sugary sodas, as they can contribute to dehydration. Opt for water, coconut water, or electrolyte-rich drinks instead.
3. Eat hydrating foods. Eat fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumber, oranges, and strawberries, to help replenish fluids and electrolytes.
4. Dress appropriately. Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton to help keep your body cool. Light-colored clothing can also help reflect sunlight.
5. Stay indoors during peak hours: Limit outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you need to be outside, seek shade whenever possible.
6. Use sunscreen. Apply sunscreen with a high SPF to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you're sweating or swimming.
7. Take cool showers. Cool off by taking frequent showers or baths with lukewarm or cool water. This can help lower your body temperature and provide relief from the heat.
8. Use fans or air conditioning. If available, use fans or air conditioning to help cool indoor spaces. If you don't have access to air conditioning, use portable fans or create cross-ventilation by opening windows and doors.
9. Rest and relax. Take breaks throughout the day to rest and relax in a cool, shaded area. Avoid strenuous activities that can lead to overheating and exhaustion.
10. Monitor your health. Be mindful of signs of heat-related illnesses, such as dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, and excessive sweating. If you experience any symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, seek medical attention immediately.

Utilize fans or air conditioning to cool indoor spaces and wear lightweight, breathable clothing to help regulate body temperature. Plan outdoor activities wisely, scheduling them for early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler, and avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Take frequent cool showers or baths to lower your body temperature and stay informed about weather forecasts and heat advisories issued by local authorities.

Check on vulnerable persons, such as the elderly and those with health conditions, and make sure they stay cool and hydrated. If temperatures are excessively high, consider staying indoors in a cool, air-conditioned environment until conditions improve. By taking these precautions and staying vigilant, you can mitigate the risks associated with extreme heat and stay safe during hot weather conditions in our country.

My sugar diet ends today

Actually I started this diet during the last days of January 2023 and that's great! I feel great. By removing added sugars from my diet can have many health benefits, including weight loss, improved heart health, and a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. I was recently diagnosed with pulmonary tuberculosis so it is important to stay healthy. So it's very important to remember also that sugar is often hidden in many packaged foods, make sure to read labels and be aware of the different names for sugar, such as high fructose corn syrup, glucose, and dextrose. Additionally, it can be helpful to focus on eating whole foods, such as fruits and vegetables, that are naturally low in sugar.

Matcha drink but no sugar.

Living a life without sugar can be a challenge for many people as sugar is a common ingredient in lots of foods and drinks. It is so difficult to find sugar-free options and some people may experience withdrawal symptoms such as headache, fatigue, and food craving. However, there are more benefits to cutting sugar out of your diet, such as improved blood sugar control, weight loss, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. So the benefits outweighs the kind of life with so many sugar around.

One way to reduce your sugar intake is to limit your consumption of processed foods and drinks. Instead, replace these for whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Also, using natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup in small amounts.

Another approach is to gradually reduce your sugar intake over time. So starting soon is better than later. Start by cutting back on sugary drinks, such as soda and juice, and eventually reducing the amount of sugar in your coffee or tea. You can also try reducing your sugar intake by half over the course of a few weeks.

So best of luck on my journey! I hope you do the same, with God's help.

Panatang makapalay

“Bilang isang mamamayang Pilipino,
Nakikiisa ako sa panatang huwag magsayang ng kanin o bigas.
Magsasaing ako ng sapat lamang,
at sisiguraduhing tama ang pagkaluto nito.

Kukuha ako ng kaya kong ubusin
Upang sa aking pinggan ay walang matirang kanin.
Ganun din ang aking gagawin kung may handaan
O kung sa laban kakain.

Ang brown rice o pinawa ay susubukan kong kainin,
Pati na ang ibang pagkain bukod sa kanin
Tulad ng mais, kamote at saging.

Ituturo ko sa iba ang responsableng pagkukunsumo
nang mabigyang halaga ang pagod ng magsasaka,
at nang makatulong na maging sapat
ang bigas sa Pilipinas.

Aking isapuso ang panatang ito
dahil sa bawat butil ng bigas o kanin na aking matitipid
ay may buhay na masasagip.”