MindfulPlayUK

"Zen Meeting Room, Japan" by stefanx80 is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0. In my previous post, I surprisingly delved into the world of Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) – a world where data analysis and cleanup can be a source of both joy and creativity. But as I found myself wrapped up in the digital realm, it's important to remember: our lives extend far beyond the keyboard. So, where do you find your zen, your place of genuine peace and fulfilment? For me, the answer might (or might not) surprise you. Yes, I find a certain satisfaction in the logic and problem-solving aspects of data analysis. But true zen comes from stepping away from the screen and connecting with the real tangible world. Whether it's spending time in nature, losing myself in the world of LEGO, or simply enjoying quality time with loved ones, these moments of unplugged presence are what truly recharge me. And also this is possibly why I am transitioning away from a being a full-time IT consultan

"[180/365] Zen Moment" by pasukaru76 is marked with CC0 1.0. Last week, I wasn't building sandcastles on the beach of digital marketing – I was deep-sea diving in the world of Search Engine Optimisation for one of my clients. Instead of turquoise waves, I navigated tangled keyword jungles and uncharted backlinks. But guess what? It wasn't just work, it was joyful, fulfilling, and surprisingly creative. Now, you might be picturing frantic code monkeys lost in a caffeine haze. But the truth is, effective SEO involves a surprising amount of data analysis and clean-up. Imagine a disorganized library with books piled everywhere, covered in dust. Finding anything meaningful is a chore. SEO is like meticulously sorting those books, dusting them off, and arranging them so anyone can find what they need. And that's where the creative spark ignites. As I unearthed buried keywords, identified broken links, and streamlined content, a clear picture emerged. It wasn't

"Hiking the Tor in the very early morning" by Karen Grayburn. For the vast majority of my working life, I have been living as a digital nomad; going wherever the work is, and for the past two years, I have really owned, embraced and embodied this lifestyle. I have just spent a wonderful ten days in Wales and Glastonbury, connecting with friends, enjoying the sites, and yes, even getting some work done – all while basking in the freedom of the digital nomad lifestyle. And now I am back in Yorkshire for a couple of weeks, but of course, this is always subject to change depending on my diary! This type of lifestyle perfectly complements my own, but is it all fun, scenic backdrops and freedom? Here's my honest take on the pros and cons of this unique way of life: Pros: Location Independence: The biggest perk! My office is wherever I have Wi-Fi. Attend meetings in Cardiff one day, explore legendary sites in Glastonbury the next – all without missing a beat.

The Traitors ©BBC The chilling whispers of suspicion, the adrenaline rush of a well-played bluff, the weight of divided loyalties - these are the hallmarks of a game where choosing between being a Traitor or Faithful becomes a constant internal battle. Whether you're enthralled by the psychological reality tv show "The Traitors" or simply pondering the moral complexities of human interaction, the question remains: who would you be in a game of ultimate betrayal? The Traitor thrives on deception. They navigate a world of fabricated truths and veiled intentions, manipulating trust and exploiting weaknesses for their own gain. It's a high-risk, high-reward path, demanding strategic brilliance and an unflinching ability to compartmentalize. But the thrill of playing everyone like pawns and the potential for a grand victory can be intoxicating. The Faithful, on the other hand, walk a precarious tightrope of vulnerability and vigilance. They believe in cooperation, s

"Wild Legosaurs Spotted" by tico_24 is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0. Yesterday, 28th January, the world celebrated the boundless creativity and problem-solving spirit of International LEGO® Day. This day marks the anniversary of the patent filing for the original LEGO® brick in 1958, a humble invention that has sparked the imaginations of generations of builders and dreamers. From the iconic 2x4 brick to the intricate worlds of LEGO® Technic and Harry Potter, these colourful blocks have the power to transport us to realms of endless possibility. And today, 29th January, we shift gears to celebrate Freethinkers Day. This day is dedicated to the unwavering pursuit of independent thought, critical inquiry, and the courage to challenge established beliefs. It's a day to honor the intellectual pioneers who have dared to question the status quo and pave the way for a more open and questioning world. While seemingly disparate, these two days share a deep connection. LEGO

"lego-mini-figure-walker-6571821" by Ralf Ruppert (ralf1403) from Pixabay In today's fast-paced world, it can be difficult to find moments of peace and clarity. However, there is a growing body of evidence that suggests that Mindfulness practices can help us to improve our focus, creativity, and well-being. One way to incorporate Mindfulness into your life is through LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, a methodology that uses hands-on learning to improve understanding and problem-solving. As part of my Masters’ research, I explored how the practice of Mindfulness can enhance LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® workshops. What is Mindfulness? Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It involves being aware of our thoughts, feelings, and bodily sensations without getting caught up in them. How can Mindfulness benefit LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® workshops? Mindfulness can benefit LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY® workshops in a number of ways. For example, it can help

"LEGO Adults welcome, Oosterflank, Rotterdam (2021)" by Donald Trung Quoc Don (Chữ Hán: 徵國單) is licensed under CC BY 4.0. … and Why Adults Are Obsessed! Remember the simple joy of snapping LEGO® bricks together as a child? Turns out, that pure focus and satisfaction aren't just nostalgia, they are the secret ingredients to a powerful dose of mindfulness in the modern world. If meditation mantras and scented candles are not your thing, LEGO® can become an unexpected (and delightful) gateway to mental well-being for adults seeking stress relief and creative expression. It's not just a trend, either. Research shows that the repetitive, tactile nature of building with LEGO® activates neural pathways associated with calmness and focus, effectively reducing anxiety and improving cognitive function. Here's why LEGO® can be the ultimate adult mindfulness tool: Hands-on focus: Building with LEGO® requires present-moment awareness, directing your attention away fr