Veerle's Sidenotes A collection of thoughts on subjects of my interest.
Get Outside
Engaging in outdoor activities offers numerous benefits, a consensus among scientists worldwide. Stepping away from your desk, moving, inhaling fresh air, and soaking in natural daylight provide multiple advantages for both your body and mind.
I have no idea about figures worldwide but in Flanders for example 6 in 10 people spend less than 15 minutes outside every day. For those who do not have to be outside for work, that number increases to 8 out of 10! Within the group of indoor workers, 7 out of 10 feel a sense of longing for the outdoors during their workdays. Nonetheless, they do express their commitment to compensating for this by engaging in additional outdoor activities over the weekends.
Nature as a Healing Prescription
What if your doctor prescribed nature instead of medication? Research indicates (detailed look at The Lancet) that a stroll in the park, a trek through the woods, or a weekend getaway in nature can significantly reduce stress levels and blood pressure, lower the risk of conditions like asthma, allergies, and cardiovascular disease, and enhance your mental well-being. For instance, doctors in the Shetland Islands have been recommending beach visits as a therapeutic remedy for both physical and mental ailments.
So, whether it's sunny or raining, ensure you get your nature fix. Even in inclement weather, the wonders of nature can still work their magic.
What's the Ideal Walking Time?
Devoting just two hours a week to outdoor activities can already make a positive impact on your health. A 2019 British study revealed that individuals spending 2 or more hours in natural settings each week enjoy better health and enhanced mental resilience. To boost your health, a brief half-hour daily stroll in the open air is more than sufficient.
Light, Fresh Air, and Physical Activity
Taking a daily 30-minute walk accomplishes three beneficial objectives simultaneously: it exposes you to natural light, provides a breath of fresh air, and ensures you get some physical exercise. Why is daylight so crucial? Your body requires a daily dose of it to regulate its biological clock effectively.
The outdoor air you inhale during a brief walk is also vital for your overall well-being. It contributes to maintaining healthy airways, reducing stress, regulating blood pressure and heart rate, and enhancing your mood. Moreover, walking serves as a valuable form of exercise in your daily routine. Research has demonstrated that walking enhances cognitive functions, as it allows your brain the necessary space to process information and generate new ideas/inspiration. This physical activity also triggers the release of endorphins in your body, promoting a sense of well-being, while benefiting your circulation, muscles, and joints.
Avoid Prolonged Sitting
For individuals with desk-bound occupations, it's advisable to break up prolonged periods of sitting by taking brief breaks every half hour, in addition to your daily walk. This practice provides an added health benefit. This is one of the reasons I have such an affection for my Apple Watch. The device reminds me to stand up every hour and keeps me motivated to complete all those activity rings daily.
Santa Teresa 34
Indulging in a bit of daydreaming never hurts, does it? Picture this: We're embarking on a move to the beautiful island of Mallorca, settling into a charming early 20th-century townhouse nestled in the heart of Soller. If money were no obstacle, how do you envision this dream home? 😊
Let's find out!
Our journey takes us to the central square of Soller, where we encounter 'Santa Teresa 34,' a 123-year-old townhouse that bears witness to the rich history and traditions of this quaint coastal town. This magnificent residence was initially commissioned by a wealthy entrepreneur from Puerto Rico, who integrated numerous refined design features, including a meticulously crafted stone facade and a breathtaking spiral staircase, to name just a couple.
The interiors feature a mix of custom-designed furniture, curated designer furniture and well-sought-out antiquities.
The spectacular spiral staircase is one of the defining features.
Renovating a structure of this caliber is truly unique, a mission undertaken by the Mallorca-based couple behind Durietz Design & Development. They have established a prominent presence in the Spanish residential design arena, specializing in the conversion of historic properties into distinctive, fully furnished homes meticulously crafted for resale.
Santa Teresa 34 is a project born out of love with an extraordinary amount of time devoted to respectful restoration, custom-designed furniture, curated designer furniture and well-sought-out antiquities.
This property is comprised of both a primary residence and a detached guest house, set amidst a lush garden and an expansive pool area that separates them. Thanks to its generous floor plan – the main house spanning 550 square meters and the guest house covering 50 square meters – Durietz Design & Development was able to effortlessly create a total of six bedrooms, each complete with a double bed and a private ensuite bathroom. There's also a wine cellar, a guest house, a home office, an open-plan kitchen, two living room areas with open fireplaces, and an Italian-inspired pool.
The outcome is truly remarkable, an interior that radiates a serene and soothing ambiance. Just to inform you, it's currently available for purchase, and the listing is marked with 'Price on Request,' which speaks for itself.
The tinted-oak kitchen and bathroom cabinets were custom-designed by Durietz Design & Development in collaboration with local kitchen maker Cocinart.
Photos by Durietz Design & Development
Motocompacto
This adorable electric scooter pays homage to the Honda Motocompo fuel-powered scooters from the 1980s. When fully folded, it resembles a suitcase, making it convenient to stow in your car's trunk or take it on public transit. Weighing in at 18.7kg/41.3lbs, it's light enough to lift comfortably, aligning perfectly with the demands of modern urban mobility.
With a top speed of 24km/h/15mph, a maximum range of 19.3km/12 miles, and a peak output of 490 watts, it possesses ample power to serve as a first- and last-mile solution, designed to meet the evolving needs of urban mobility. Honda says it reaches it topspeed in 7 seconds. Its suitcase-like shape also provides an ideal canvas for stickers, decals, and custom logos, guaranteed to turn heads!
Fits Any You, Any Where.
No word if the Motocompacto will be launched in Europe. All I could find is that it will be available in the US for $995 in November via selected Honda dealers. Make sure to take a look at the animation demonstrating how everything folds together. It's truly delightful!
