Online Shopping Guide to Affordable Stylish Creative Gifts
Here's a handy video guide to show how easy it is to shop on-line for affordable stylish creative gifts from my open edition art prints.
Thanks to Fine Art America's print-on-demand & trusted service since 2006, you can purchase a wide variety of arty gifts for your home or lifestyle, from the comfort of your home anywhere in the world. Fine Art America deal with the printing, payments, delivery and customer service, freeing me up for creating new artwork.
This video guide demonstrates how to shop stylish colourful gifts in my art range on Fine Art America.
Fine Art America advise on processing time for different products, delivery depends on your shipping location which they indicate at check-out stage as shown in my video guide.
Choose from a wide variety of stylish products such as: tote bags, weekender bags, pouches and facemasks or something to decorate your home such as art prints with or without frame. You can even order greetings card of my art work with your own customised greetings.
These are very affordable gift options giving you the freedom to choose style, size and quantity. If you have any questions about delivery and returns policy you will find all the information on Fine Art America's site.
I hope you find my video useful. If you have any questions relating to my artwork drop me an email via the contact page.
People often comment on my bag that I bought with your artwork on it. Creative gifts help the artist & will provide unique presents for Xmas đ https://t.co/bh4VR2ngbe
Carlow Library a Valuable Resource for Creativity & Wellbeing
Carlow town and county has a great resource in the form of itâs County Library (Tullow Street, Carlow). Formerly a Presentation Convent school, the building has been adapted to combine with the County Musuem and Tourist Office.
While the main library is bright, airy and modern, it has also retained a room of special character from the buildings original use as convent school. This room is known as The Shaw Room in acknowledgement of Carlowâs connection with acclaimed writer George Bernard Shaw who bequeathed part of his legacy to Carlow town enabling the beginnings of Carlow Library.
The Shaw Room is a valuable asset of the library and may be provided for use by local community groups and individuals for the purposes of education, exhibition and demonstration (this requires advance booking and consultation with the library).
As a creative Carlovian, I have been very fortunate to have had use of the Libraryâs Shaw Room on a number of occasions. I have used it to launch my art collection âThe Sacred Lives of Treesâand two self-published books and to present a well-being workshop and a singing performance (all within a 12 month period).
During these events, I have had the full support of the library staff. I am sincerely grateful for their warm welcome and assistance on every occasion. Although they tell me I am no trouble to them at all, they always made sure I had everything I needed.
Through Carlow County Library, I made very useful connections with other groups such as âGlor Ceatharlachâ (promoting Irish Language) and Carlow Mental Health association (Mensana).
When RTEâs 'Nationwide' reporter, Helen Mc Inerney invited me to be featured as an author on topic of anxiety, I was delighted to share that limelight with my friends at Carlow County Library.
An atmosphere of mutual support and promotion is something to be encouraged and it is especially welcomed by those of us in the arts, who provide inspiration and well-being benefits in our wider community.
Visit Carlow Library on Facebook Page or via their Website or simply drop in to their fine building on Tullow Street, Carlow to find out about their range of services and events which includes genealogy and learning supports.
And the good news is that my books are on their shelves too:
If you suffer from anxiety it is quite likely that along with the discomfort of the anxiety itself, you have also been working hard to keep it top secret.
In this competitive world of ours, we do all we can to keep the bright side out, to look our best and be strong. Appearing weak and vulnerable doesnât seem to fit with the way of things. Yet, sometimes by exposing that very part of ourselves we actually grow stronger.
More and more people (including myself), are calling it out that they have suffered mental anguish and despite this they have managed to overcome all sorts of trials. Our stories of triumph over anxiety contribute to the ending of stigmas and inspire others to take action to seek an improved life experience.
What it is & What itâs Not
Anxiety is actually more like a learned behaviour, habit or response to something that has caused trauma at some point in our lives, particularly at an early age when we are most susceptible and lacking in knowledge.
Itâs suggested in some circles that being of a more sensitive disposition makes us more susceptible to anxiety. I am of the opinion that without role models to show us that sensitivity is actually a strength and not weakness we may fool ourselves to thinking itâs all our own fault and not much we can do. We owe it to each other to be that role model. Recovery from anxiety is possible whether you have the gift of heightened sensitivity or not.
Whatâs Going On
Some amount of anxiety is normal and, similar to fear, it alerts us to take stock of something or pay attention in certain situations. Messages we pick up through our environment, combined with thoughts/stored memories can lead to sensations in our body, triggered by our nervous and endocrine (hormonal) systems.
Adrenaline is one of the notable hormones being released into our blood stream when we are anxious. The term âfight or flightâ is used to describe how adrenaline prepares our body when we feel there may be some threat or danger imminent e.g. delivering more glucose and oxygen to specific sites such as muscles to help us move faster by generating more energy.
Anxiety (including panic attacks and phobias) however can be triggered when there is no apparent threat. Parts of our brain (e.g. the limbic system) house an extensive record of stored memories, for comparison purposes, with our on-going life experiences. If a significant match is found in these records, suggesting something in our current environment is not good for us or may cause a problem then the stress response is likely to be triggered.
Damaging Long-Term Effects
When anxiety is constantly being triggered you are effectively âleaking adrenalineâ into your system. Left unattended, this constant excess of adrenaline has consequences for our long-term health and well-being.
Energy level, sleep quality and concentration are all set to suffer. There can be consequences too for creating imbalance in our endocrine system, as hormones affecting fertility and digestion are impacted by excess amounts of adrenaline.
Another detrimental factor of prolonged anxiety (especially if it presents as panic attack or phobia) is the avoidance of places, situations and people. This in turn can lead to restricted life experiences which can impact our self-esteem and mental health by cutting off some of our basic needs which are obtained from social engagement and personal relationships.
"Seven Cs to Calm is a good investment for people who want to restore calm and experience life with more purpose and joy."
In this little book, I share insights and tips that Iâve learned from my 20 years+ of personal experience and study, which have empowered me to live with greater authenticity and wellbeing.
Designed with Purpose
The book is intentionally small and simple because we tend to feel over-whelmed when anxious.
Seven Câs to Calm can be discreetly carried in your handbag or satchel and can act as a powerful anchor as you go about your day to day business.
A workbook is provided to make it easy for you to implement the suggestions in the Seven C's plan.
My readers have given Seven Câs to Calm a resounding thumbs up for its effectiveness and no-nonsense approach.
Laura, Carlow, Ireland
"Seven Câs to Calmâ is a handy guide that can be easily referred to because of its size. The content and the 7 Câs idea is good. I am going to use it with an anxious child of mine."
Teresa, Dublin, Ireland
"Seven Câs to Calm is absolutely excellent, informative, honest and easy to comprehend"
Mary, Dublin, Ireland
"Love it! I found âSeven Câs to Calmâ very positive, I loved the idea of a three month plan and finding your comfort place. I am going to start now writing down three positive things that happened during the day and look back over them at the end of the week. A lovely idea and I think very positive. I will read this again. I think âSeven Câs to Calmâ is something you can keep referring to."
Bernadette, Wexford Ireland
"Seven Câs to Calmâ is beautifully written and full of useful and meaningful information. I also found it very calming. I like the way you made it very simple and instructive as to what people can do and you continued to remind people that it is small steps that matter. I really like the writing style as it is easy to read and not jarring. You know the books that tell you itâs all so simple, which is nonsense but the fact that you have been through this really pulls in the reader to act on your suggestions."
Margaret, Dublin, Ireland
"I have just finished reading and re-reading Seven C's to Calm. I found it very inspiring. When youâre feeling anxious it's often overwhelming but the practical ideas in this book make it seem manageable. Setting a three month goal is a great idea as sometimes people think it's an overnight fix and that there is something wrong when not feeling better straight away. Also I found giving helpful suggestions for the daily and weekly plan is great as sometimes even wondering what to do for that can cause anxiety in itself so when you see the suggestions it's really helpful."
Janet, London, UK
"I read your book and I have to say I found it very good, it is very clear, precise and to the point with good suggestions. I will certainly use it in the coming months."
Art Prints | Choose Size & Budget
Open Edition Prints | Lot of Options
Sometimes it's the size that matters and the price too and that's where art prints at my Fine Art America shop can be most efficient in providing you with exactly what you want.
A print on demand service, with print houses worldwide, my online print shop at Fine Art America offers many options for obtaining a piece of my artwork at the price of your choosing.
It's even possible to choose the type of paper or canvas on which to print the artwork. I particularly like 'Somerset Velvet' paper for my art prints. You'll also discover a range of customisable products such as tote-bags and phone covers.
"Art is important in our lives, it connects us to our dreams and can positively affect our well-being."
Art of Caroline Cunningham
Greetings Cards | Art of Caroline
Explore my range of greetings cards, in high quality finish, each one accompanied by a crisp white envelope. You have the option to personalise the cards with a greeting of your own or leave blank.
Gifts for All Occasions:
My open edition prints provide ideas for gifts for all occasions as well as nice treats for yourself. Check out the full range of options in my online shop at Fine Art America. I've created a guide to shopping the site to make things even more simple.
One dream, one leap of faith inspired by the sacred tree wisdom, and one truly grateful artist reflecting on the success that is 'The Sacred Lives of Trees'.
Tour Launch | 2016
The Sacred Lives of Trees exhibition tour launched at Carlow Library in winter of 2016.
This collection of colourful paintings is my way of paying tribute to the solace and wisdom I've received from nature and trees in particular.
I'd been accumulating ideas for this collectoin as far back as 2007. Timing is everything, I'm largely a self-funded artist. I've made my own luck through committment, diligence and being of service to others. It paid off.
The Sacred Lives Of Trees
Amidst global turmoil, visitors to the exhibition noted that now, more than ever, our connection with nature is vital.
Art of Caroline Cunningham
Sponsorship & Homage to Trees
Through my social media networkings I attracted sponsorship and funding from wonderful kind-hearted people from far and near. People pledged funds in return for purchase vouchers, one business sponsored my invites, others promoted my event and a friend provided food for my launch. This was a demonstration of love for trees and appreciation for the work that went into to bringing this message to the fore.
Throughout all stages of my campaign and exhibitions I witnessed a homage to trees by people from all walks of life and some whom I had never connected with previously. Amidst global turmoil, visitors to the exhibition noted that now, more than ever, our connection with nature is vital.
The Sacred Tree paintings are finding their way into loving homes. My on-line gallery awaits new owners of paintings and limited edition prints.
Join me in a virtual tour and immerse yourself in some of that magicial energy captured below.
Trees are constantly moving in unison with the wind, the minerals of the soil, the light of the sun and the earth's water. They clench the soil and reach into the heavens while witnessing every moment of Earth's revolution. They provide shelter and homes. They may blossom and wither, always following the course of their natural design.
I created The Sacred Lives of Trees art collection to honour trees for their contribution to my wellbeing and to encourage more people to express the benefits they receive from trees. I've come to regard trees as individuals, each with a character of their own.
"Reminiscent of dancers, great warriors and benevolent souls, trees are evidence of how the unseen forces of Nature lend shape and character to our being."
Many of my tree paintings reside in homes in Ireland and beyond. There are a few remainng originals to choose from, along with a selection of open and limited edition prints to enliven your home or work space with colour and healing inspiration.
Visit the on-line gallery to select your favourite piece. If you have a query about your selection Iâm here to help.
She virtually tapped my shoulder and invited me to share my articles with her Facebook group Seniorpreneurs Ireland.
Social media can be daunting and at first, especially for us introverted types who thrive on our inner-world. Brenda didn't stop there, constantly reminding me to keep telling people about my work, 'you're doing great, you've got to get your name out there!'
This encouraging, supportive and inspirational lady is Brenda Bergin one of many supporters for my art exhibition show-casing 'The Sacred Lives Of Trees'Â in November 2016 in Carlow.
A Life of Challenge & Success
Brenda Bergin (Digi-Gran) is a lover of art and nature. In her words, 'I revel in the sounds of the wild wind stirring the branches of trees to fantastic displays of free-style dancing.'
Mother of two with three adorable grand-children, a fondness for cats and dogs. She played hockey and tennis avidly throughout her school and working years and she is a romantic at heart, Brenda is a senior with an interesting past and she's set to blaze a trail through the years that she's fortunate to receive.
Brenda's career has been long and varied, nursing, auctioneering, tourism and being self-employed, all had one thing in common for Brenda, an outlet for her passion for providing customer service, care, social communications and networking. As Brenda simply states 'I love helping people'.
Brenda was the original host of the popular weekly Twitter hour '#tweetursis' through which she successfully promoted brands for three years. Her business 'Sun Flower Touch Supply' (@paloma100449 on Twitter) was the third Irish business to be picked as winner of the Sunday Business Show (#SBS) of UK Dragon Theo Paphitis. Brenda's business at that time, carried a range of superior materials for Milliners hats and fascinators.
Life has many challenges but Digi-Gran simply rolls with the rough and tumble and adapts to all that comes her way, just like the trees that inspire my paintings.
The toughest of these challenges has to have been Brenda's six year encounter with cancer. Brenda made a successful recovery to good health, using her desire to swim with turtles as her reward for making it through. This all happened during her dream holiday, a 34 day cruise from Ireland to the Caribbean and back, which included a visit to the magical Isle Of Mustique.
Brenda shares her secret to successful living
" Every morning I exhale the past and I inhale the future."
Brenda Bergin, Preneurs Global
Digi-Gran has had an interesting past, travel was in her bones from an early age. Having a best-friend in school who was Spanish, drew her to Spain, a country which she has lived and worked in and continues to visit regularly. During her nursing years at International Missionary Training Hospital (as it was known), in Drogheda, Brenda met nurses and doctors from all over the world, including India and Africa and was all set to travel to Zambia and further afield at one point. Eventually she returned to nursing in her home-place of Waterford, where she met and fell in love with Bill.
"With Digi-Gran at your side you are surely set to soar"
With her latest business Seniorpreneurs Ireland, Brenda Bergin aims to promote brands through use of social media platforms, web advertisement and networking events. She regards this as a natural step in her colourful career. Her vision is simply to help people by giving them the means to get their businesses seen and heard.
Brenda kindly offered to be a promotional sponsor of my November 2016 art exhibition featuring my painting collection 'The Sacred Lives Of Trees'. Her advice to artists and indeed all businesses is plan your marketing strategy in advance and reach out to those who can help you to succeed.
Wishing Digi-Gran much success in her business and in life .
I was already a fan of reflexology before I qualified as a therapist. Throughout my training I was thrilled to discover the immediate benefits my treatments were providing for case study clients.
I was fortunate with the variety of clients I had for my 40 case studies, a requirement of my diploma. I practiced on feet of all ages, shapes, colours, textures and sizes.
Each pair told their own unique story. As time went on I began to notice patterns and traits that corresponded with the individual themselves.
Results were noticeable and varied. Relaxation was the benefit most reported by my 10 clients. In fact one person told me it was the first time that they ever managed to feel so relaxed.
As relaxation provides optimum conditions for the body to heal and function with ease and efficiency, this was a very important benefit for the receivers. One client reported that even the opportunity to do nothing for one whole hour was rare. At the end of the course of treatments, this client had made a life decision which would improve his career opportunities.
"Reflexology provides many benefits for wellbeing. With the client and the therapist working together there are usually good results."
I noted in my case studies that many clients enhanced their treatment by implementing some of the suggestions I recommended to them as part of their treatment plan. These ranged from taking in some extra walking, fresh air, water and self-treating the reflexes on the hands.
Sample Results
As a result of their resolve, some of the results were quite impressive, such as:
the absence of sciatica pain for as long as 2 months after treatment
improved breathing for a client who had high blood pressure (a therapist in her 70's who gave me great confidence in my ability).
a client who started a walking routine to boost their energy and then discovered that jogging was more fun.
a client who found space to relax and get clarity on a new career path.
Conclusion of 40 Case Studies
Reflexology provides many benefits for wellbeing, with the client and the therapist working together there are usually good results. Clearly, regular deep relaxation achieved through reflexology, contributes to healing for mind and body, counteracting the effects of busy stressful lifestyles.
If all is not well, a change of routine can help, slowing down to allow for mindful listening and the development of a more self-caring attitude in order to achieve balance once more.
Reflexology is an effective holistic treatment, performed mainly on the feet. While its a highly respected therapy, it is not a replacement for medical diagnosis and treatment.
Author Update
In 2024, I retired as a therapist after 11 years of successfully assisting clients with their wellbeing.
I continue to assist people in their healing through my books which are available online. If you like this article, explore my work.
