Renewable energy and your home: 5 benefits explained

Samantha Rigby
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Renewable energy and your home: 5 benefits explained

Renewable energy in Australia is growing rapidly. The uptake from both individuals and business, big and small is immense. There are currently over 2.5 million rooftop solar installations in Australia and growing every day.

In 2019, 24% of Australia’s energy was from renewable sources. On average per square meter, Australias has the highest solar radiation in the world. With all of these natural, renewable resources at our front door making the switch to renewable energy makes a lot of sense at a macro level.

However, how can it positively impact individuals?

Solar and renewable storage benefits:

These are 5 of the top benefits you get from installing solar and renewable storage at your home:

1. Reduce your bills

Reduce your bills

Who likes to pay electricity bills? No one. That is the reason why people love solar when they get their electricity bill. One of the greatest benefits of installing solar are the savings you get on your energy bills.

There are two ways you save with solar. Consuming the power you create and exporting any unused power to the grid.

Australia has some of the highest electricity prices in the world. Our massive country with a relatively small population means the generation and maintenance of the huge grid comes at a cost and that cost is worn by consumers.

When you generate your own electricity with solar, you are saving on every single kWh (kilowatt hour) rather than buying it from the grid. The average costs of a kWh of electricity is around 30c and the average home uses around 20kWh’s per day. So when you crunch the numbers, it all starts to ad up.

generate your own electricity

You can’t control when the sun is shining. When your system is generating and you aren’t running any or enough appliances to use it, the best part is that power will get exported to the grid and you will get a credit on your bill.

These are known as a feed in tariff. For every single kWh you send to the grid you can get paid a credit on your bill. Some consumers are even capable of reducing their bills to $0 and even getting a pure credit!

Every single electricity retailer has a different value for their feed in tariffs so it is important to check what yours is if you have solar and make sure you get the best deal you can. It can heavily impact your savings.

2. Rebates and incentives

Rebates and incentives

Rebates and incentives are always hot topics. In Australia, we are lucky enough to have access to both Federal and State based rebates and incentives that help pay for people to install renewable energy in their homes.

The first and most common are STC’s or small scale technology certificates. This is a program run by the Federal government to help offset the costs of renewable energy in smaller scale settings.

Anyone can access the program and there are very few restrictions.

To put the scheme into context, for a standard 6.6kW home solar system you will receive around $3,500.00 in incentives. This is often referred to as the ‘Solar Rebate’. While it isn’t technically a rebate, it may as well be. It is a fairly linear scale so the bigger the system, the more money you will get back.

Traditionally, the STC’s will be signed over to the solar retailer and the amount will be taken off the total purchase price to the customer.

Next, there are some state based incentives and rebates. For example, NSW is running a program to help people access renewable energy storage. The Empowering Homes Program provides an interest free loan for people to install a battery to an existing home with solar (up to $9,000.00) or install a complete solar and battery system (up to $14,000.00). The best part is, you can still access STC’s.

Another example is the Victorian Solar Rebate. It provides Victorians with an additional $1,850.00 rebate for new solar installations and access to an $1,850.00 interest free loan.

3. Improve the value of your home

Improve the value of your home

Everyone wants to find ways to improve the value of their home. If you are looking to sell or just to look after your #1 asset, there is always something you can do.

Renewable energy and sustainability is becoming a more important issue for Australians every single day. Everyone is becoming more and more aware of the impact they have on the environment and making active efforts to do the right thing.

If you are looking to invest in your home or sell your home, the first thing you ask is, what can I do, to get the best return?

Solar and Solar Batteries should be very close to the top of the list.

Not only will you reduce your own ongoing energy bills, you will reduce your incoming potential buyers. Then when you factor in the good emotional connection as more and more people make conscious efforts to go green and the Government assistance you can get to buy renewable energy for your home, it’s hard to find a better return on investment for your home.

On top of all of this it is also one of the least capital intensive. When compared to a kitchen (average of $15,000.00 – $43,000.00) or a bathroom (around $20,000.00) renovation, an average solar installation after government incentives is only around $6,000.00. This means less upfront risk for consumers and home owners.

4. Reduce your dependence from the grid

Renewable energy and your home

You don’t realise how reliant you are on power and your access to the grid until there’s a black out. Your wifi goes down, your fridge slowly starts to warm up and the lights don’t work. Renewable energy can solve this problem.

While solar won’t supply your home with power on it’s on, solar with a battery can do the trick! Solar can not keep working without a battery because it is connected to the grid. So if the grid goes down so does your solar. However, if you get a battery with black out protection, your problems are solved.

Not only can you use any power that is generated during the day from the solar, you can use any power in the battery to continue running your home. Plus, any additional power generated by the solar will charge the battery for you to use at night.

5. Reduce your carbon footprint

Reduce your carbon footprint

Right now, in Australia most of the power we use is generated from fossil fuel power plants. While we are making the switch to renewable energy, there is a long way to go.

More and more Australians are becoming aware of their carbon footprint and the impact that has on the environment. While Governments and Businesses around the world are implementing their own strategies to reduce the impact we are having there are ways for individuals to have a meaningful impact.

Every single person has the ability to reduce their own footprint by installing solar. Once you have installed solar, it will have generated enough electricity to cover the carbon footprint created by its manufacturing and installing in just 1 year. Most solar panels have a 25 year warranty and inverters, 10. So after year 1, you are generating clean, green energy ready for your home and family to enjoy knowing you have at least 10 – 25 years to go!

Russell Jack, Southland-based yoga teacher, explains hatha yoga

Samantha Rigby
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Russell Jack, Southland-based yoga teacher, explains hatha yoga

The practice of yoga is a renowned art form. It’s an ancient system for balancing the mind, body, and spirit. There are over 100 types of yoga practiced today, including hatha yoga. Here, Russell Herbert Jack, Southland-based yoga guru, defines hatha yoga and explains what someone may expect from this type of yogic practice.

Textural references for haṭha yoga techniques can be traced back at least to the 1st-century. The Sanskrit word “Hatha” (हठ) means “force,” and it extends well beyond an advanced physical exercise system and integrates ideas of values, diet, cleansing, breathing exercises, meditation, and a strategy for the spiritual development of the yogi.

It is thought that hatha yoga was introduced in the United States in the late 19th Century. It was considered a spiritual practice, but by the early 20th Century, it was best known for its flowing physical attributes.

The popularity of hatha yoga accelerated in the late-1960s after Maharishi Mahesh Yogi (born Mahesh Prasad Varma) integrated Transcendental Meditation into this yoga style. Maharishi was the guru to the Beatles, the Beach Boys, and other celebrities. His melding of Transcendental Meditation and yoga’s physical techniques is credited with rejuvenating classical hatha yoga.

Health benefits of Hatha yoga:

1. Reduced stress and anxiety

Both yoga and meditation are long-held effective solutions for combating stress and anxiety. While not to be used to treat mental illness or certain psychiatric conditions, meditation is used by millions of people around the world to bring calm and peace to an otherwise chaotic world.

Yoga, too, has a long history of helping people reduce stress through physical exercise. The purpose of yoga is to build vitality, consciousness, and symmetry of both the mind and body. Combined with Transcendental Meditation, yoga has been credited with providing life-altering positive changes.

2. Improved sleep

Specific yoga postures are known to promote relaxation, but by and large, the benefits from hatha yoga, when it comes to improved sleep, come from this practice’s meditative properties. Meditation can quiet the mind and body while heightening inner peace. When done before bedtime, it may reduce insomnia and sleep disturbances by promoting overall calmness.

3. Weight reduction

The weight-loss benefits of hatha yoga are not strictly due to calory consumption. For example, a person weighing 160 pounds consumes around 185 calories in an hour of hatha yoga. This is approximately half the calories consumed during an hour-long brisk walk. The more important benefits of yoga for weight control are:

  • Learning to be more aware of your body, what you eat, and why
  • Reduced stress, which can cause overeating
  • Supportive social interaction with peers that encourage healthy eating choices

If hatha yoga seems a little too trendy for your liking, consider why it has become so popular. Millions of people around the world are discovering the deep connection between mind, body, and soul. Yoga, combined with meditation, has proven to be a useful tool for promoting flexibility, stress relief, health, and physical fitness.

About Russell Herbert Jack

Russell Herbert Jack, a yoga and mindfulness teacher from Southland, New Zealand, is passionate about spirituality, the vegan lifestyle, animal rights, and living in sync with nature. Russell specializes in Vinyasa Yoga, Qigong, and guided meditations. Vinyasa yoga, or flow yoga, heightens consciousness by moving from one position to another seamlessly, using breath. Just like Vinyasa Yoga, Qigong has many healing properties to the body, mind, and spirit. He enjoys learning and writing about spirituality, meditation, and vegan lifestyle and sharing these valuable insights with his clients.

 

Physician Yuben Moodley explains why it is such a bad idea to avoid visiting the doctor

Samantha Rigby
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Physician Yuben Moodley explains why it is such a bad idea to avoid visiting the doctor

When it comes to bad ideas, avoiding a doctor’s office visit is at the top of the list. Whether it be anxiety-related, fear of bad news, or out-of-the-way, there are many various reasons why so many people skip out on doctor appointments.

However, failing to regularly see a physician can have its detrimental downfalls, such as missing a severe health issue early in its development.

Yuben Moodley is a dedicated physician, researcher, and Associate Professor of Respiratory Medicine. Dr. Moodley’s areas of expertise include asthma, lung cancer, lung diseases, lung tumors, and sleeping disorders. Below, he explains several reasons as to why is it such a bad idea to avoid seeing a physician.

Why you shouldn’t avoid seeing a physician:

Failure to catch an issue early on

When people avoid visiting their doctor for routine visits, they have a higher risk of suffering from illness or disease that could be caught in its early stages. For those who have a family history of diabetes, high cholesterol, heart disease, cancer, or any other primary disease, it is crucial to keep an eye out for signs. A doctor can help keep track of your health by suggesting the appropriate screening tests.

Failure to break a bad experience

Taking the time to create a relationship with a physician is vital in breaking any terrible experience keeping a doctor’s appointment at bay. A great patient-physician relationship is one of the most beneficial, unique, and positive experiences a person can have when it comes to addressing health. Unfortunately, choosing to avoid a doctor’s appointment will prevent the opportunity of ever finding such a relationship.

Failure to solve an ongoing issue

Skipping out on the doctor’s might lead to unresolved health issues. Those who find themselves progressively short of breath as they grow older or gaining weight without realization would benefit from a professional opinion regarding how to solve these common health issues that come with age. Insomnia runs high around the world, and sometimes a restless night of sleep is more severe than blaming the extra cup of coffee from the day before. Not addressing chronic sleep disorder can lead to more severe long-standing issues such as hypertension, diabetes, and depression. A professional health care provider can help identify the valid reasons for instances like lack of sleep.

Failure to prevent

Create a checks and balances system for your body to keep everything in check by monitoring basic vital signs such as heart rate and blood pressure. Though routine medical costs or insurance might seem like a high cost from the beginning, preventing other more serious health issues will save any bank account at the end of the day. In addition, practicing peace of mind with your health should not always stem from a visit to WebMD. In fact, further looking into health issues online opens the door to unneeded worry or fear. The internet covers health issues in a generic sense, while a doctor’s visit is a personalized overview and evaluation.

To say the least, Yuben Moodley shares the same opinion as many doctors do regarding dodging a day with a physician: don’t avoid visiting the doctor.

About Yuben Moodley

Dr. Yuben Moodley is a physician, scientist, and associate professor of respiratory medicine. He is devoted to providing high-quality patient care, conducting cell and molecular research, and teaching. He is the head of the Stem Cell Unit at the Lung Institute of Western Australia, Consultant Respiratory Physician at Royal Perth Hospital, and Associate Professor of Respiratory Medicine at the University of Western Australia.

Top carrier oils you need to start using today

Samantha Rigby
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Top carrier oils you need to start using today

If you are someone who uses essential oils, then you will have obviously used carrier oils as a means of diluting them and making them safe to use. If you didn’t know, carrier oils are primarily extracted from kernels, seeds, and nuts of various plants.

Since they are mostly neutral, they work to complement your essentials. They are great for use with hair or skincare products, like balms, lotions, sand salves.

Why different carrier oils have different levels of quality

It’s no secret that essentials can evaporate very fast and leave a very potent plant aroma behind. This makes them very potent in general, and this is why you can’t use them directly. People use carrier oils because they don’t have a strong aroma and they don’t suffer from evaporation, which makes them great for mixing with essentials since they ‘carry’ all of their benefits while diluting their potency. Depending on the type of essentials you are mixing, you can change that essential vs carrier oil ratio to produce stronger or weaker mixtures.

However, you should know that carrier oils come in many different varieties and can have a lot of their own benefits that aren’t so obvious. Some of them can have properties that are therapeutic in their own right but are often sidelined next to the essentials that they are supporting. However, it’s worth knowing about these properties so you can make the most effective mix possible.

Below, we’ll examine 5 of the absolute best carrier oils you can get.

Coconut

Coconut oil

Coconut is undoubtedly one of the most frequently used carrier oils, and there are many good reasons for it. First, it is full of many antioxidants and has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties to it. Second, it’s great for helping to nourish skin, hair, and nails. Almost half of it is made up of lauric acid, which means that it is able to stay good for a long period of time as well as enhance beneficial cholesterol. It has a lot of moisturising benefits that make it ideal for treating skin issues that cause dryness.

You should try and look for the unrefined variety of coconut carrier oil so that you can be sure that it does not go through any kind of chemical-based extraction process. You can also get solid room temperature varieties of it that smells great and can be used in creams and balms.

Olive

Olive oil

Taken from olives, this carrier oil is well known for its many health benefits, as well as being a great way to cook and season different meals. It has a high percentage of oleic acid that makes it very beneficial for heart health and can increase good cholesterol while reducing bad cholesterol. It also has anti-inflammatory benefits and can make insulin more effective.

It has a fruity and light aroma and works well as a carrier oil since it is not overpowering for the essentials you mix with it. Since it’s not greasy, it can be utilised with many hair and skin types. It’s great for dry skin, dandruff, and frizzy hair.

There are obviously many different brands you can use for your olive carrier oil, and you should do your best to stay away from the cheaper, low-quality ones. You want to get the unrefined version as it won’t have chemicals used in the extraction and it will have the most amount of natural benefits.

Jojoba

Jojoba oil

Since it is made up of a lot of eicosenoic acids, Jojoba has a profile that is very similar to sebum that is found in human skin. It is most often regarded as a carrier oil that matches with the natural processes of our skin and therefore is an excellent choice for mixing with essentials with the goal of moistening the skin.

It is extracted from Jojoba tree seeds and has an aroma that is slightly nutty. This carrier oil has anti-fungal benefits and is, therefore, best mixed with essential oils from N-essentials that share those properties.

It is able to resist oxidising effects and therefore can remain useable for a long time. It is very absorbent which adds to why it is such a good carrier oil.

Sweet almond

Sweet almond

This carrier oil is very rich in E vitamins and works great as an antioxidant. It is taken from dried fruit that originated from almond trees. The high amount of vitamin E that it has makes it really good when it comes to skin nourishment. It also helps with regenerating skin cells as well as retaining moisture, so it’s an excellent option for anyone who suffers from dry skin issues.

The antioxidants that it has also work to reduce the damage caused by sun exposure. The high amount of linoleic and oleic acids that it has work to soothe skin that is irritated and reduce the effects of inflammation.

This carrier oil also works well for massage gels since it is hypoallergenic as well as not greasy. Vitamin E works to help repair skin damage and work to reduce wrinkles and make facial skin smoother. It is absolutely one of the best carrier oils you can choose for improving nails, skin and hair.

Argan

Argan oil

This carrier oil is a popular ingredient for anti-aging products as well as repair split ends and promoting the growth of healthy hair. It has many rich properties that make it very nourishing and healthy to use.

It is taken from the argan tree that is native to Morocco and has many beneficial properties. It has vitamin A, E, and a lot of antioxidants. It’s very effective in helping to reduce inflammation and reduce the damage caused by sun exposure. It also works to minimise scars and stretch marks.

Finding a carrier oils supplier

If you are looking to get your hands on any of the carrier oils listed above, then you will want to find yourself a reputable supplier to order them from. You want to be careful in your selection as going with a supplier who can’t guarantee the quality of their products can spell bad news for what you are trying to do.

Lower-quality ingredients and extraction processes can mean that the effects of your mixtures will be diminished. If you want to get the best value out of the experience, then you need to make sure that you are using the highest quality carrier oils that you can find.

Don’t settle for less than the best, always make sure that you do your research into the ingredients and claims of each supplier you are considering buying from. The last thing you want to do is end up with a product that is of low-quality and is going to dampen the effectiveness of the essentials that you want to dilute with it.

This is not always a straightforward process, so it’s worth doing some investigation and perhaps even calling up a company to ask some questions about their products. The more checking and investigating you do, the greater peace of mind you will have that you are getting a high-quality product that you will be able to use with your essentials.

Hopefully, the above helps you in choosing the best carrier oils.

How to make your podcast sound professional

Ross Plotkin
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How to make your podcast sound professional

You might not be new to the podcast world if you’ve decided to start one. Most probably, you might have been a podcast listener for a long time and have now decided that it’s time to step into the world of creating one.

One of the major concerns of people who are just starting out as a podcaster or thinking about it is how to make their podcast sound more professional.

If you think it’s all about investing in high-end equipment, having the right microphone or podcast editing software, or creating the right environment, then this blog will make you think again. No doubt, those things are necessary to make your podcast’s quality better but that doesn’t mean they make it sound more professional.

Read ahead to explore and understand what it takes to make a podcast sound more professional.

1. Understanding good audio file

There’s more to what you call a good audio file. Besides being audible, your audio files need to be free from hissing sounds, any background noises, signal interferences, or any other sound that doesn’t belong in your audio file.

Here are some more pointers suggested by a podcast editing company, to help you achieve the level of clarity in sound that your listeners deserve:

  • The recordings shouldn’t sound muffled and also make sure the amount of their volume is at an audible level for better clarity.
  • The levels of your microphone while recording should always be in green.
  • Vocals shouldn’t have much echo or reverb unless you have planned on it.
  • Removing all the unnecessary sounds while podcast editing. For this, you will require editing software or a podcast editing service provider – you can choose any way according to your budget.

2. Give your audience what they expect

A podcast is another audio form of content consumption, just like radio. They are not the same but they do fall in the same segment and hence people tend to consume podcasts in a similar manner. They expect to be introduced to your podcast or the episode as well as a proper outro at the ending of the episode. This has been the format in which people consume content on the radio as well as the podcast. So, for your podcast to sound professional, make sure you are adding a proper intro and outro in every episode.

3. It’s all in the delivery

Your position, whether you are standing or sitting, while recording your podcast plays a major role since your surrounding defines the airflow and sound reflections which directly affect the podcast quality. If you are delivering while sitting, chances are there will be sound reflections as well as obstructions in the airflow from the desk and chair. Recording your podcast standing up in an empty room is the ideal scenario for a quality output.

Pro Tip: In case you need a script in front of you while recording, use a music stand. It’ll do the trick. Also, make sure you are putting a layer of foam or a rug or something to avoid any reflections behind your script on the stand.

4. Sources matter

Back your facts, figures, data, etc. by properly quoting the sources as well as include reputable sources to add value to your content. Mention the people who came before you and are doing well in your industry, give credit to people whose ideas you are mentioning, as well as be clear about your contribution to the ideas, your industry, etc.

Also, make a point to recheck the quotes, facts, figures, etc. before quoting them, you don’t want to use outdated information. Just verify the information with the latest events and figures to be accurate about what you are saying. This is one of the crucial points to make your podcast sound professional.

5. Test it out

Before going all-in with recording an entire episode, record a test clip or you can also use previously recorded episodes. Then compare the result with the quality of podcasts you enjoy but make sure you are testing the sample in environments in which your listeners might listen like in a subway, bus, or in a car. Also, test it out using different output devices that your listeners might use like earbuds, headphones, or low-quality earphones.

You can also send the test clip to your friends or families or trusted colleagues for their opinion on the quality of the sound as well as content to see if there’s any room for improvement. Or you can send the same to a podcaster you admire and see if they are willing to provide any input or insights.

6. Pay attention to the length

The length of your podcast can say a lot about you as a podcaster as well as how well-versed you are with podcasting. Moreover, it also shows if you understand your audience and the content you are delivering or not. Ideally, a successful podcast episode lasts anywhere between 30-40 minutes, that is statistically speaking.

This might not be the case with the content you are creating. If you are interviewing someone and digging deep into their life to understand where they come from and asking about their life stories then it is natural that your episode might stretch to an hour or two. On the other hand, if you are delivering just facts, then sticking to short length episodes will bode well with your audience since it’s not easy to consume too much raw information at the same time.

So, the length of your podcast will depend on the content you are delivering, your audience, as well as the ideal length. The goal is to keep it interesting for your audience to stick around till the end.

Making a podcast sound professional is not a cakewalk but it’s not impossible. The trick is to pay attention to the details and getting them right.

As long as you follow the above-mentioned tips while creating your podcast, you won’t have to worry about your podcast being unprofessional or informal.

Pro Tip: Once you get the hang of creating a professional-sounding podcast, retrace your steps and list them out as a checklist to follow for your future recordings.

What you need to know about Adcore and its various technologies for business

Samantha Rigby
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What you need to know about Adcore and its various technologies for business

Adcore provides numerous business related technologies which aim to optimize and streamline your business processes in different ways.

With so many different business technology platforms being released on the market, Adcore stands out among the competition due to their innovative software which can bring a competitive advantage to businesses across various different industries. Feeditor is a technology that Adcore offers, which reduces the time required to organize data and also eliminates the need for a developer. It does this by providing a user interface which makes it easy to organize and manage data for any user.

Another technology of theirs is Views, which is a marketing based application that makes the creation and implementation of online advertising and marketing campaigns easy. You have the ability to generate multiple ads and track their analytics through this platform. Adcore also offers Semdoc, a data management software which utilizes artificial intelligence in order to manage, track and organize your data.

This application can be applied to so many different parts of business, and with big data becoming an important aspect of all businesses, as well as artificial intelligence, you may as well get in on the trend now and gain a competitive advantage. These technologies are all great, and they are very affordable too.

Adcore offers rate based plans which are deducted monthly in exchange for use of their applications. For the benefits your business can receive if you utilize the offered technologies correctly, you are investing a small sum.

The correct application and utilization of Adcore’s technologies can net significant gains for your business in a managerial and data based regard.

With the latest in business technologies, you are ensuring a serious competitive advantage over others within your industry.

Why you need a gallery shelf for your photos

lucychappell
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Why you need a gallery shelf for your photos

Move over gallery wall, there is a new kid on the block. Introducing the Gallery Shelf – a new, stylish and convenient way to display photos and art in your home without the need to measure, drill and hang endless hooks in your walls.

Now don’t get us wrong, we love ourselves a traditional gallery wall whereby your picture frames and artworks are arranged into visually appealing layout and hung directly onto the wall. This style of wall feature is classic interior design stalemate that is certainly here to stay. However, for those of us who are renting our homes, don’t fancy extensive DIY projects, or simply have too many photos to commit to just a handful of frames, the gallery shelf if a great alternative due to its practicality and flexibility.

Going by several names, the ‘gallery shelf’ (or ‘picture ledge’ or ‘photo shelf’) is quite literally a shelf that is fixed the wall, where you can creatively display pictures. Unlike its highly esteemed cousin, the gallery wall, a gallery shelf does not require your picture frames to be fixed into place on the wall by way of hooks or nails. Instead, your picture frames free stand or lean on a simple floating style shelf that is hung over a bed, down a hallway or centred on a feature wall in your home. The result is a more relaxed looks that allows you to layer more photos into a casual, overlapping arrangement.

When thinking about how to decorate walls or bring more personality into your home, it’s easy to become quickly overwhelmed. So much so, many of us end up putting nothing up at all. Whether you just don’t know how to get started, or you are hesitant about putting too many holes in your walls, we’ve put together a list of the top benefits of a gallery wall and how to make yours in just a few simple steps with minimal holes. And with a quick search of Pinterest or Instagram you’re guaranteed to feel inspired and want to jump on this interior trend asap.

Gallery shelves are easy to create

DIY projects aren’t for everyone. The great thing about a gallery shelf is that is requires far less work than a gallery wall. Once you’ve fixed your floating shelf in place, you can return that drill and tape measure back to garage, or your neighbour! From here on in you are free to place pictures frames, framed art and photo frames on the shelf without the need to drill and align hook holes. Yes please!

Gallery shelves are flexible

The other reason the gallery shelf trumps the gallery wall comes down to the flexibility they offer. With a gallery shelf it is simple to change photos on a whim. More holidays photos? No problem! Kids growing up? Not to worry. Just create a new frame for each new occasion and add it to your shelf. You can even mix your framed photos and artworks with other artifacts or add another shelf below or above as you need. The options are endless.

Gallery shelves are relaxed

Unlike a gallery wall, in which frames are often displayed in uniform lines and grids, the gallery shelf will bring a more relaxed vibe to the space. This is because the frames are shuffled in and overlap one another. You can mix landscape orientations with portraits and big frames with small fames, because eclectic is the name of the game. To tie it all together, try and work with a common colour palette or theme such as whites and timber, or monochrome.

Now that you know what a gallery shelf is, you’re probably wondering how to get started? In a few simple steps you will have a place to tastefully display those many hundred (or thousands) of digital photos stored on your phone.

Step one – Choose a wall for your gallery shelf

First up, you need to decide where you want to have your gallery shelf. When making a decision consider the type of photos you want to display and what wall space you have available. More personal photos and prints might be better suited in a bedroom, but more family-orientated photos might be a great conversation started when positioned in a more communal space like a lounge or dining room.

Step two – Purchase a floating shelf or picture ledge

Once you’ve measured up and have the dimensions you need, head online or to your local Ikea and look for a picture ledge kit. They are fairly easy to find and most come with easy-to-follow instructions. Try and choose a colour that will blend in with your space such as white or a neutral timber so they shelf itself is not the focus of the arrangement.

Step three – Hang your shelf

Once you have your picture ledge, it’s time to fix it to the wall. This is the only hard bit, we promise. Measure the length and position on the wall and ensure it is level by also measuring up from the floor (or by using a level). Then get a friend to hold the shelf tight while you drill straight into the “back” piece of your ledge using strong screws and, where possible, drilling straight into a stud.

Step four – Arrange your photos and art 

Now comes the fun part, filling your gallery shelf with framed photos that are meaningful to you, and of course, those that make you smile. Don’t agonise too much about which ones to choose as you can always add more or swap them later. If you’re feeling creative, try mixing in quotes and artworks that help express your style and passions too.

With a gallery shelf it’s never been easier to display your memories stylishly throughout your home or office. The best part about memories is most definitely making them. But there’s no doubt, reliving them is also pretty satisfying too.  Not only will a tasteful display of photos lift your mood, but it will also bring warm and personality to your home. So, what are you waiting for? Get started today! After all, you will never regret seeing your favourite people and moments proudly on display throughout your home.

Emergence of IoT devices heats the security and privacy debate

Samantha Rigby
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Emergence of IoT devices heats the security and privacy debate

Technology has permeated every sphere of our lives, and it is driving the way we live. However, it’s also giving rise to unintended consequences in the form of security and privacy breaches. IoT devices across the globe have come under heavy scrutiny because of the rising incidents of hacking and data theft.

According to the International Data Corporation, the number of connected IoT devices will rise to 41.6 billion by 2025. Additionally, these devices will generate 79.4 zettabytes (ZB) of data in the next five years. It implies that we will be surrounded by IoT devices recording our conversations, tracking our movement, analysing our spending habits, and changing how we work and live.

The bitter taste of IoT

The life-transforming Internet of Things technology has led to the creation of smart homes, something that we could only dream of even a decade back. From smart lighting to cutting down energy consumption, everything will impress your guests. However, a growing number of connected IoT devices also makes you vulnerable to data thefts, hacking, scams, and any other technological malaise you can imagine.

IoT devices’ emergence has also given rise to privacy and security concerns, especially the popular ones like Google Home Voice Controller. The list also contains Amazon Voice Controller, The Ring Always Home Cam, Amazon Dash Button, August Doorbell Cam, August Smart Lock, etc. Apart from these, several healthcare devices, car accessories, and even mobile devices are getting connected to the web and harnessing the internet to revolutionize the way we use smart devices.

The benefits of IoT devices might seem to outweigh the risks by a huge margin, but privacy and security are a huge concern. This notion exists primarily because of hacking incidents, data theft, and online scams that have wreaked havoc over the past few years. Just recently, 50,000 home cameras were hacked, and their footage was stolen in the process. The stolen loot has already appeared on adult sites, depicting footage of various mundane events. For people, this privacy violation in their homes is the nightmare we hope to only happen in movies. So, even if home cameras are usually installed for security, they might become hackers’ gateway.

Furthermore, victims of online fraud don’t realize that the sharing of personal or financial data over the internet can be extremely dangerous. Cybercriminals and hackers are on the prowl, and they target everyone from individuals to government properties like bank accounts, power grids, chemical plants, hydroelectric dams, and more.

Security issues plaguing IoT devices

Public perception

If we truly want IoT to be a part of everyone’s life, manufacturers need to address the growing concerns about their products’ security. Yes, the general public is really concerned about privacy whenever they want to purchase an IoT device. People are concerned that third parties can steal their personal information or whatever they do or speak.

Hacking is a huge threat

Hackers can easily get access to IoT devices without much effort, and researchers from across the world have proven this. Smart homes can be easily hacked into, and consumers are left at the mercy of these people.

Companies aren’t ready to secure their devices

No IoT manufacturing company can guarantee the absolute security of their devices. It shows that they’re not confident that they could secure customer data. Proper protection is a farfetched dream, but there might be a way if all parties involved contribute to this cause.

Privacy issues with IoT devices

Big data

The great amount of data that IoT devices generate creates multiple entry points for hackers to access sensitive information. In general, IoT presents a promising scenario in which companies have an opportunity to analyse data in real-time. Depending on the nature of IoT products, they can collect a range of data. Some could monitor environmental conditions, such as humidity or air quality. Others can track users’ behaviours and generate patterns. While this massive amount of data becomes available to companies, people wonder if it will be handled properly.

People need to know how companies use their data. For instance, a red flag would be for an enterprise to exchange information with third parties. In such cases, consumers might not even know where their data will end up being stored. Besides the questionable exchanges, companies face another challenge. All this accumulated information needs to be protected from unauthorized access.

Divulging too much information

We never really go through the terms and conditions document carefully before signing up for a service. Companies can use this consumer information in any manner they want, including sharing it with third parties. For instance, an insurance company can gather information by getting access to the data generated by the IoT car accessories and use it to track your driving habits and present you with a poor deal when you sign up for car insurance.

Eavesdropping

Companies and manufacturers of IoT devices can invade your home at will by using the connected devices. Intercepting unencrypted data from any smart device can leave your privacy in tatters. Eavesdropping attacks can have dire consequences. Your online activities could be breached, and all data stolen by perpetrators. One of the gruesome scenarios is identity theft, which could severely damage your reputation and financial stability.

How to ensure security and privacy?

Well, we all must face reality. Manufacturers are bound to leave mistakes in their products, especially when new hacking attempts emerge regularly. So, while the prevention of attacks would be preferred, it is not always possible. Sometimes, we need to focus on mitigation.

For instance, encryption is one of the ideal approaches to keeping private data secure. A VPN can serve this purpose when it comes to protecting web traffic. Installing a trusted Virtual Private Network (VPN) on all the connected devices secures them. Atlas VPN can create a secure tunnel to exchange information. All the data in this tunnel will be encrypted and immune to attempts to intercept it. Hence, privacy and anonymity are secured through the end-to-end encryption offered by a VPN.

So, before you purchase an IoT device, consider the potential dangers it brings. You would not want footage of your private life to be broadcasted for the entire world to see. However, without employing appropriate protection, it is possible and has been done before.

New Orleans gets The Wizard of Oz treatment in Bourbon Whiz

Samantha Rigby
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New Orleans gets The Wizard of Oz treatment in Bourbon Whiz

The Wizard of Oz is a movie that’s had an incalculable impact on the world of cinema and musical theatre. The film’s simple yet effective story structure has inspired dozens of reinterpretations and parodies over the years.

The Wizard of Oz treatment in Bourbon Whiz

“Bourbon Whiz” by New Orleans-based comedy company Sketchy Characters is a feature-length musical parody of The Wizard of Oz that puts a cheeky adult twist on the classic tale. Featuring a “ruby red G-string” and a “Wicked Stripper of the West Bank”, Bourbon Whiz is unapologetic in the in your face nature of its sexual humor.

Bourbon Whiz features several clever reimaginations of the classic characters from The Wizard of Oz. One of our favorites is their version of The Tin Man, who is a street statue who requires tips rather than oil to keep functioning.

The feature is as much a parody of New Orleans as it is The Wizard of Oz, with the creators clearly poking fun at the city they call home. Frantically paced with one foot dangling in reality, Bourbon Whiz certainly demonstrates how truth can be stranger than fiction.

The production features several original songs along with parodic remixes of classics from The Wizard of Oz. These songs cover a variety of genres you’d find playing around New Orleans, including country, rock, techno and blues.

The Wizard of Oz

Moving quickly from location to location, the feature never dwells on any of its gags long enough for you to get tired of them. A great mix of singing and acting talent combine to create something incredibly expressive.

Providing a vision of New Orleans through the lens of The Wizard of Oz, Bourbon Whiz makes for a clever and entertaining experience that’s best enjoyed with friends and a few drinks.

Bourbon Whiz Poster

Check out the full film on YouTube here.

How do Australians celebrate Christmas?

Samantha Rigby
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How do Australians celebrate Christmas?

It’s no secret that Christmas is an exciting time of year for Australians. Even though we don’t have the snowfall typically associated with the holiday season, we’re still keen to celebrate the end of the year and spend some quality time with those we love.

However, if you don’t know much about Australian culture, then you may be curious as to how Christmas is celebrated in the lucky country.

What Aussie do during Xmas?

The following will take a look at some of the fundamental aspects of a typical Aussie Christmas.

1. Eating great food

Of course, Australians are just like any other culture when it comes to enjoying large spreads of food during the holiday season. This tradition is a practical necessity when you have so many family and friends gathering in one place.

When it comes to Christmas dishes Australians love, turkey and ham are top of the pack for meat options. Of course, desserts like gingerbread, trifle, and pavlova are also very popular during the festive season.

Also, a backyard Christmas barbeque is a very common occurrence in Australia. This is quite a stark contrast compared to the huddled indoor gatherings you get in North America and Europe.

2. Enjoying beer and wine

Australians love their beer and wine, so it’s not surprising that they’re both seen in large quantities at Christmas gatherings. Again, Aussies are not so different from the rest of the world when it comes to celebrating with alcohol at the end of the year, since letting loose after a long year is something with universal appeal.

3. Spending time at the pool or beach

In Australia, summer starts in December (and our summers can get notoriously hot). Therefore, cooling off in the pool or heading down to the beach are common activities during Christmas for Australians, both activities that are unthinkable for people experiencing winter.

4. Shopping and gift-giving

Again, Australians are no different from the rest of the Christmas-celebrating world when it comes to shopping and gift-giving. For many Australian businesses, Christmas is the most important time of year in terms of revenue with millions seeking to buy gifts for friends and family.

5. Putting up lighting and decorations

While it’s hard for Australians to make a snowman in the front yard, it doesn’t stop us from going all-out with Christmas decorations. Just like other parts of the world, some Australians can get really competitive with their Christmas decorations, creating elaborate light shows that are a real treat to see at nighttime.

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