#cozy cardio

[solacescastleglow]

Creating a Cozy Corner

I am of the opinion that if you have a place to live long term, at least one section of it should be specifically designed to be as cozy as humanly possible. Preferably all of it, but hey, baby steps. Here's a step by step guide if you want to make one, but are unsure how.

1. Decide what you want to do in your cozy corner

What you want out of your cozy corner will determine where in your house it goes, how big it is, and what you'll fill it with. It can be a place to do a hobby or something you don't typically like doing, or to go to when you're feeling a particular way.

For me, it's a place I go to when I'm overwhelmed or scared, so I knew the atmosphere had to make me feel safe. I feel safest in small spaces and corners, where I can see the whole room but people can't see me from the door.

2. Find a place that suits your needs for it to go

Is your cozy corner for reading? maybe the bedroom or wherever your books are. Working out a la Cozy Cardio? Maybe somewhere in the living room. If you want to cozify your self care routine, make your bathroom cozy!

Mine is between the foot of my bed and the wall, because when I have nightmares the last thing I want to do is go to a separate room.

3. Structural work

Depending on how big your space is, what it's for, what the room already looks like, whether you're renting, and so on, this will vary wildly. Some ideas include installing bookshelves, painting the walls, or getting a kids' teepee style tent to get cozy in. Or, you could just decorate the whole room to be a sanctuary.

My dad helped me install a shelf and put a plastic board in between the bracket and the shelf top, then bent it down and attached it to my bedframe. This created a little cave-like space for me to sit in.

4. The fun bit!

Decorating!!! Put whatever you want in there. I would recommend at least 2 sensory things (such as lighting and scents), 2 activities, and 5 soft things for relaxation. Some ideas include fairy lights, sunset lamps, scented candles or wax melts, sensory tools, something soft to sit on, cozy clothes you can put on when you're in there, nostalgic toys, equipment for your activities such as a walking pad or a musical instrument, snacks, books, a projector for movies, the list goes on and on!

Since mine is on the floor, I got a large memory foam dog bed for the bottom, then stacked extra pillows and blankets. I set my weighted blanket nearby, and put some coloured pencils and my therapy journal off to the side. I finished it off with some stuffed animals and children's books about loving yourself and handling big emotions.

5. The takeover

I will warn you, though. Making a cozy place that makes you feel good runs the risk of you wanting to make your entire living space cozy.

I'm in the middle of cozifying my bathroom and reading corner, with no signs of stopping at that.

[mostlynatur3]

My pelo/office is so cute! My husband installed this amazing ceiling light that changes colors with the music!!

[voguegenics]

Fitness Takes Center Stage This December: Trends You Need to Know

🎄 10 Festive Fitness Trends to Keep You Active This December! From cozy cardio to strength training with a side of holiday cheer, find your new favorite workout. 💪✨ #FitnessTrends #HolidayWorkouts

Ah, December—a month of glittering lights, sugary indulgences, and a constant battle between “let’s be cozy” and “let’s be productive.” If you’ve been waiting for a sign to prioritize your fitness (between marathon cookie baking sessions and wrapping presents), this is it. The holiday season has a way of throwing routines out the frosty window, but fitness is here, not just surviving, but…

[mimikyufriend]

the fact that the today show took a story about an average sized woman creating a workout trend that prioritizes movement and feeling good over losing weight and made it about a celebrity fitness instructor's "sculpting" workout course is like cartoon villain levels of fatphobia

[starstuffandalotofcoffee]

this article made me exactly as murderous as I thought it would, also NICE DICHOTOMY IDIOT WHAT LIES OUTSIDE IT

[honeycombhank]

5/24/23

Today I feel brave. Being vulnerable is hard to do but when you can be brave enough to have a conversation from the heart, it can change a lot of things in your life. Today I had a conversation I needed to have with someone I love very much, I needed to ask a question that I wasn’t sure I would like the answer to. That’s really hard to do especially when it’s a question about how you treat them and how your own actions have made them feel.

I feel like it went well and I took this opportunity to learn about myself and grow.

I also jumped rope for 36 minutes tonight! Yay!

Princess came to take a picture with me haha

[isthattyra]

Sweet Beginnings

terry richmond x black reader

“I’m just saying, why should I have to go to the gym when I can get my workout done here?” you say, flexing dramatically as you scooped dough onto a baking sheet. The smell of vanilla and brown sugar filled the cozy kitchen, making your argument even sweeter.

Terry leaned against the counter, arms crossed over his broad chest, his lips twitching into a grin. “Baby, I’m inviting you to the gym, not drafting you into a strongman competition. Besides I never said you had to work out. I just want to see your pretty face, it gives me motivation”

You smirked, not missing a beat. “I can do arm curls here. You see me scooping this dough, don’t you? And kneading earlier? That’s a full upper body workout.”

He raised an eyebrow. “And cardio?”

“Mixing counts. Ever tried to beat butter and sugar by hand? That’s endurance right there. And don’t you think we get enough cardio done together?” You said recalling the last few nights spent with Terry that had you sweating and out of breath like you’d just run a marathon. 

“ I guess you got me on that but I didn’t hear any complaints from that so called workout” he said shutting you right on up.

“Besides, this dough won’t scoop itself. Speaking of which…” you motioned to the oatmeal cookies on a baking sheet. “You’d never have gotten these if I hadn’t saved you at the store.”

“Saved me? That’s a stretch.”

“Oh, come on! You were ready to give up eating plain old oatmeal like the old man you are for the week until I swooped in.”

Flashback

Your banter had started over a year ago, on the day you met. You had just started selling your baked goods to people besides your family. It was the week before you planned to work the weekend farmers market and you were trying to make sure you had all your ingredients ready.

It had been an ordinary afternoon at the grocery store, you had been searching for a bulk container of oatmeal for your iced oatmeal cookie recipe which was one of your best sellers. Finally coming across in it the aisle, seeing only one container. Barely paying attention as you scrolled on your phone, you reached for it at the exact same moment a large, calloused hand did.

“Oh!” you said, startled, looking up. The hand belonged to a tall, fit man with warm greyish blue/green eyes and a teasing smile. He pulled back slightly, letting you take the container.

“Go ahead,” he said with a chuckle. “I’m not about to fight you for oatmeal.”

“That’s very gentlemanly of you,” you replied, trying to hide your embarrassment. “But are you sure? It looked like you needed it too.” 

His dedication to maintaining his beautiful body had been evident in his cart full of proteins and veggies.

He large shoulders shrugged. “It’s for my meal prep. But I’ll survive.” He paused, then added with a sly grin, “If you promise me a batch of whatever you’re making and your name,I’ll consider it even.”

You couldn’t help but to laugh as you tell him your name “Brown butter iced oatmeal cookies. And… deal.” Not wanting to have to deliver to a random stranger, no matter how fine he was, you suggested he meet you at the local farmers market that weekend. 

“Here’s my card in case you can’t make it, you can send me an email to place an order”

Not only did he show up, he was there before you were. Even going so far as to help you unload your car and set up your tables and tent. It was nice to have someone to help since your best friend had bailed on you last minute. Bonus that the help was so nice to look at. You’d never been so jealous of a table, watching as he lifted it so easily onto his back not straining even once.

Terry stayed at your table until everything sold out, helping you to pack everything up too. He was only able to buy one oatmeal cookie even though you tried to argue that he didn’t need to pay.

“Now I feel like I owe you again, I appreciate all your help today and for taking up so much of your time” you stated feeling bad. All this man wanted was some oatmeal and now he’s been put to work

“It’s no problem at all, I enjoyed the cookies and I learned a lot about the baking business too” he said smiling showing all 32 of his pearly whites

“Well before you go I have something for you” reaching in the front seat of your car grabbing the specially wrapped box. “ I knew the cookies would sell fast so I made sure to put a batch aside for you, after all that was the deal”. the smirk growing on your face 

His smirk matching yours “It definitely was. Thank you, I’ll try not to eat them all in one siting” 

“Good luck with that,” you said. “They’re addictive.”

“I don’t doubt it.” He leaned back slightly, his eyes lingering on you for a moment. “You know, I think I got the better end of this deal. A whole batch of cookies, and nice morning spent with beautiful company”

You could help to laugh, shaking your head. “Well, now you’re just showing off your charm, aren’t you?”

“Maybe,” he said, his grin widening. “But it’s working, isn’t it?”

You rolled your eyes, but the warmth in your chest was impossible to ignore. “Drive safe, Terry. And maybe I can get you to try one of my other cookies next time you’re here.”

“Next time, huh?” He opened his truck door but paused, his eyes locking with yours . “I like the sound of that.”

With that, he climbed into the truck , leaving you standing there with a smile you couldn’t seem to shake.

True to his word, Terry showed up at the next farmers market. And the one after that. By the third week, it wasn’t just a casual visit—he was there early, carrying boxes, helping set up your booth, and sticking around to take it all down at the end of the day.

“You know,” you said one morning as you unloaded your car together, “I didn’t realize free cookies came with a labor contract.”

Terry chuckled, setting down a tablecloth. “I think I got the better end of the deal. The cookies are a bonus. You, though? You’re worth showing up for.”

You couldn’t help but to feel butterflies flutter in your stomach and somewhere else, but you just  rolled your eyes to play it off. “Flattery will only get you more cookies, you know.” He didn’t have to know you also meant another set of cookies. 

“Good,” he said, his grin crooked and confident. “I’ll take them.”

By the fifth farmers market, his presence had become so natural that when he wasn’t there for a moment—late grabbing tea for you both—you realized how much you’d come to expect him by your side.

That day, while packing up the last of your supplies, you worked up the courage to ask. “So… I was thinking. Since you’re already giving up your Saturdays to help me here, maybe I could steal another evening from you?”

Terry straightened, his eyes bright with interest. “Are you asking me out, Y/N?”

“Maybe I am,” you said, smiling as you shut the trunk. “Dinner this Friday?”

“Absolutely,” he said, his grin matching yours. 

Flashback end

Now, a year and a new bakery storefront later, you were finishing up making a batch of your still best seller. Now renamed The Terry, you had to make double sometimes triple and would still sell out fast. 

Terry still helping out but now in the shop, had seen you struggle a little to lift the big bag of flour and had suggested showing you some arm strengthening workouts.

“Well if someone didn’t have my arms in a position they’re not usually in I would have been fine lifting the flour. Besides not everyone has the strength to be out here lifting tree logs.”

Terry laughed, the deep rumble making you glance up. “Baby, when have you ever seen me lift a log? And also it was your idea to try it out”

You shrugged ignoring the second part of his comment. “Maybe it happened in a dream once.”

He shook his head, amusement clear in his eyes. “That imagination of yours…” He leaned down to kiss your cheek while swiping a cookie on his way out.

You grinned and turned back to your task, the sound of the spoon scraping against the bowl filling the space.

[rod-tf]

New Gym, New Life

*This is my first story ever and english is not my first language so if there are any mistakes, I'm sorry. I hope you enjoy it!* -Rafi💚

Daniel and Alex had been together for five years, living happily in their cozy apartment in the city. Both in their late twenties, they prided themselves on staying fit and healthy.

When a new gym opened just a few blocks away, they decided to check it out. The gym, named "Sahara Fitness", had a unique and exotic vibe, with its rich gold and deep red color scheme, intricate geometric patterns, and Arabic calligraphy adorning the walls.

As they walked in, they noticed that all the staff and trainers were Arab men; tall, muscular, and radiating confidence and masculinity. They greeted Daniel and Alex with warm smiles, their deep voices resonating through the gym. Despite the clear cultural influence, the place seemed modern and well-equipped.

"Welcome to Sahara Fitness," one of the trainers, Malik, said in a thick accent. "You two look like you already know your way around a gym, but we like to offer something special to our new members. A gift to help you get the most out of your workout."

He handed them each a small, ornate container filled with a dark, powdery supplement. "This is a traditional blend, used for centuries to enhance strength and endurance. Try it out during your workout, and you'll feel the difference."

Daniel and Alex exchanged a glance. They were a bit skeptical but intrigued. They had tried all kinds of supplements before, so they figured it couldn’t hurt to try something new. Thanking Malik, they headed to the locker room to change.

Dressed in their usual gym gear, the couple mixed the supplement into their water bottles and sipped. The taste was strong, almost spicy, with a hint of something they couldn’t quite place. Shrugging it off, they began their workout routine, starting with some light cardio before moving on to weights.

As they started lifting, both noticed an unusual burst of energy coursing through their bodies. The weights felt lighter, their movements smoother. They exchanged a surprised look but continued their sets, pushing themselves harder than usual.

After a while, they noticed something even stranger. Their bodies began to feel different—stronger, more powerful. Alex glanced at his reflection in the mirror and did a double-take. His usually slim frame was starting to bulk up, and his muscles were swelling with each rep. His fair skin seemed to be taking on a slightly tanned hue, and his facial hair usually trimmed and light, was darkening and thickening.

"Dan, are you seeing this?" Alex whispered, his voice sounding deeper than usual.

Daniel, too, was undergoing a transformation. His once smooth face was shadowed with a thickening beard, his jawline sharpening. His normally light hair was darkening to a rich, deep brown, and his skin was also taking on a more olive tone.

They both felt a strange warmth spreading through them, almost like a fire igniting from within. Their minds began to feel fuzzy, thoughts of their usual life together growing distant. Instead, they were filled with an intense, almost primal desire to lift more, grow stronger, and assert their newfound masculinity.

As they continued working out, their transformations became more pronounced. Their bodies grew more muscular, their chests broadening, arms bulging with veins as their biceps swelled. The hair on their bodies thickened, and their once soft features became rugged and masculine. The changes weren't just physical; their minds were altering too.

Daniel, now with a full, dark beard and intense eyes, glanced at a group of women working out nearby. He felt an overwhelming attraction towards them, something he'd never experienced before. The thought of Alex, his partner, seemed oddly foreign, replaced by a burning desire to dominate, to conquer.

Alex, too, felt a shift. His mind, once full of love and tenderness for Daniel, was now clouded with lustful thoughts. But he wasn't thinking about Daniel; it was women with soft curves and alluring smiles. The idea of being with a man seemed almost laughable now.

They both finished their workout, breathing heavily, sweat dripping from their now muscular, tanned bodies. The gym’s atmosphere, once just a backdrop, now felt like home, where they belonged and could be their true selves.

As they headed back to the locker room, they caught sight of themselves in the mirror. Gone were Daniel and Alex, the cute, loving couple who had walked in earlier. In their place stood two Arab alpha males, their bodies sculpted and powerful, exuding raw masculinity. Their eyes were dark and intense, their gazes filled with a new hunger.

Malik appeared behind them, a knowing smile on his face. "Ah, I see the supplement has worked well. Welcome, brothers. You are now part of our tribe, our brotherhood. The old you is gone. You are reborn, stronger, and more powerful than ever."

Daniel, now calling himself Daoud, and Alex, now Ali, looked at each other and nodded. They felt no fear, no regret only acceptance and excitement. They had been transformed, not just physically but mentally. The bond they once shared as lovers was replaced with a new bond, brotherhood. And with it came a shared obsession, a desire for women that burned within them like never before.

"Bro, I can't believe how good this feels. I don't even know why we were ever together like that," Ali said, his eyes flickering with a new, primal energy.

Daoud smirked, flexing his arms, feeling the surge of power coursing through his veins. "Yeah, man. What were we thinking? This is what real life is about. We were just... confused before." He looked at the women working out nearby, his gaze filled with hunger. "Now, it's all about the chase, the thrill."

Ali nodded in agreement, his thoughts aligned with Daoud's. "Exactly, bro. Chicks, muscles, and dominating life. That's what we were meant for."

Daoud clapped on Ali's back, their bond now one of brotherhood and shared desires. "Let's go, man. Time to show the world what real men are made of."

They dressed in new clothes provided by the gym. traditional but modern arab-inspired attire that accentuated their muscular frames. As they walked out of the gym, they felt like kings, ready to conquer the world outside. Women turned to look at them, drawn to their confidence and masculinity. And as they exchanged a knowing glance, they knew that their lives had changed forever.

No longer the gentle, loving couple they once were, Daoud and Ali were now straight, Arab studs, obsessed with their newfound masculinity and the thrill of chasing after women.

[drmaddict]

Patchwork

Summary: Henry becomes a father... Just not how he thought it would happen.

Word count: 2.160

Warnings: mentions of domestic violence, lots of fluff

"Six?"

"Six."

"Six children?"

"Well not biologically, but.... yes."

(Y/n) looked uncertainly at Henry. The blue eyes stared at her in disbelief.

"You have six children living in your house?"

She sighed. That was always the point at which every guy ran away.

"I understand if that's too much for you," she began. 

Henry shook his head still in disbelief, but grinned. "Do you ever sleep, or do you just get used to  sleep deprivation?"

She smiled cautiously. Didn't trust the peace yet, though. "To be honest there are two kids one 9 and one 12 and four pubescent teenagers."

He regarded her quietly across the restaurant table. "Are you okay?" he asked, "Did I say something wrong? I know my reaction may have been a little surprised, but I didn't mean to cut you in."

She relaxed a little. "It's just... Most guys run away as soon as they hear that, and that would really be .... a shame."

Henry smiled and shook his head. "I don't run away. I hate cardio."

That made her smile.

"But you'll still have to tell me how you get to adopt six children and teenagers.... And that as a single woman in her mid-twenties."

"It's like cats. Somehow I guess it doesn't stay with just one." She tipped her wine glass. "The first one was Jason. He was the son of my neighbors at the time and would come by my apartment every so often in the afternoon until his mother got home. One night he showed up at my door bleeding. His father caught him with make up and beat him black and blue. It took a while, but then he could move in with me. He's graduating from high school this summer. He has even been accepted to a make up school. He wants to go into film as a makeup artist." She smiled softly. "He's come a long way."

Henry curtsied in shock at the story. "Fatima is 16 and has been disowned by her family for not being a virgin. She has ambitions to study law. I don't think anyone will stop her from going to Oxford. Mike is almost 16 - next week - and grew up without a father and even though his mother tried everything, she has high level schizophrenia. She has been institutionalized and now lives in care. We visit her whenever her condition allows it. Mini - Emilia ran away at some point. We don't really know what happened. She is 14. Kamon is 12 and comes from a refugee family. His parents have been sent back to Thailand. We are trying to get a visa for them. Until then, I'm kind of his foster family. He and Mike are not officially adopted. Both love their family and do everything for them, even if they can't always be there. And Lilly. She is 9. Her family died in a car accident. No family member has been found."

She was silent for a moment and continued to contemplate her wine before looking up and looking at Henry.

"Henry... I understand if this is too much, but.... they've all been through enough in their lives and every single one of them has their reasons for making it hard for new people in our family. So if, against all odds, you say yes to this circus, know that it's not so easy to get out of it either." Her gaze became insistent. "If you leave me, that's one thing, but I won't do that to the kids."

Henry, who hadn't said anything all this time, took one deep breath and reached for her hand lying on the table. He smiled. "If they're willing to meet me, so am I."

Henry stood in front of a gigantic house. His house was already big, but this one surpassed it. Despite its size, however, it didn't seem ostentatious. It looked cozy and inviting. The word 'home' popped into his head.

Shouts and frantic footsteps sounded from inside. 

He pressed his thumb on the doorbell. Immediately, everything went silent.

The door opened with a jerk. A dark-skinned boy stood before him, beaming at him. From the colored eyeliner, he concluded that it must be Jason.

"Hello Mr. Cavill." he said in a noticeably loud voice.

Immediately, frantic footsteps sounded and he saw scattered bodies running through the background.

"Hi. Henry will do." he smiled.

"Come on in. I'm Jason. Ehhm... (Y/n) isn't here yet.... Mike had... They had to go to the hospital."

"Is he okay?"

Jason shrugged. "Normally, he is. Boxer you know... Tea?"

"Gladly."

He stepped into the house. It was swept as if empty, yet the traces of life could be seen in it. Self-painted pictures. Photographs. Various equipment for hobbies. Shoes in different sizes. And that was just the hallway. Henry let himself be led into the kitchen and sat down on one of the chairs. None matched the other.

"Mike had a match this morning. (Y/n) said he's already patched up. They're already on their way here."

Henry smiled. "With something like this, you should take your time."

Jason set the steaming cup down for him and sat with him.

Henry accepted it gratefully. "It's very quiet."

"Be glad." was all he said, sipping his tea. "I don't want to chase you away, but it's like human history here. The periods of absolute peace are relatively negligible." He ran his index finger over the rim of his cup and grinned. "And I'm one of the worst divas here. Just a warning."

The front door opened and a rumble sounded, followed by an amused giggle. "Sorry about that." a boy's slurred voice rang out.

"That's okay big guy. Come on off to bed." he heard (y/n).

"I'm fine!"

"That's because they drugged your ass off so you can't feel your face."

"Where's Ammy?"

"Mike you need to rest now. You can call Amber when you're in bed."

"Who are you?" A blond boy in a gray sweatshirt and swollen face looked at him from the doorway, aghast. "Who's that?" he turned to (Y/n).

"A friend Mike. That's a friend. Jason stop filming him!"

Still grinning, Jason put the phone away and turned to Henry. "Welcome."

"What's the dog's name?", Kamon asked him.

"That's Kal...like Superman." he smiled at the shy boy.

"I like Batman."

Henry rolled his eyes playfully. "Oh yeah, why?"

"Batman watches out for kids nobody else wants. Like (y/n)."

Henry smiled.

"I told you not to rummage through my things!" yelled Emilia down the hall.

Henry and (Y/n) sat in the garden each holding a book.

"I wasn't rummaging. I was getting MY eyeshadow, that you stole from MY room!" shouted back Jason. "It's not my fault you leave your lovey-dovey fanfictions lying around in the open like that!"

"You have no business in my room!"

"That being said - Tom Holland? Really?"

A splintering sound rang out.

"I guess that was the vase, then," (Y/n) sighed.

"I would have thought she was more of a Sebastian Stan type," Henry reflected loudly.

"How long has she been sitting there?" whispered Henry to (Y/n).

"Since this morning. She hasn't looked up from that book in five hours."

Fatima sat at the large parlor table surrounded by books, writing notes and index cards.

"That's impressive. Scary, but impressive."

Kal walked over to the table and nudged her.

"I have to study! Sit!" Kal obeyed immediately and sat next to her chair.

"She'd make a good drill sergeant," Henry grinned.

(Y/n) sipped her coffee. "You've never seen her in exam stress."

"This isn't exam stress?"

"This is relaxed studying."

Henry looked in shock at the girl with noise cancelling headphones. (Y/n) grinned into her cup.

 "They need more glitter!" determined Lilly.

Henry reached for the can of edible glitter and sprinkled more of it on the unicorn cookies.

"Like this?"

The little girl looked thoughtfully at the tin. "Like this."

Henry bowed theatrically and slid the tin into the oven. "All for your majesty." The girl giggled.

(Y/n) just watched with a smile.

Jason and Mike sat on the sofa grinning together at a tablet, each with headphones in their ears.

This wasn't normal. Even Henry knew that by now. He wondered if they were both watching porn. He'd been that age once, too. He knew what that was like.

(Y/n) came into the living room and looked over there shoulders at the two of them. She laughed uncontrollably grunting, but immediately suppressed it and came over to him.

No porn, he concluded.

"What about these two?" asked Henry, pulling her to him on the sofa and onto his lap.

"Just a movie," she grinned.

"What movie?"

She continued to shake her head with a grin and waved it off. Henry was very reluctant to be shut out. So he sat (y/n) down next to him on the sofa and stood behind the two teenagers. When he saw his younger self in a black hoodie grinning and holding up a tarot card, he groaned in annoyance.

The boys snorted indignantly. Henry looked defiantly at the display.

"Oh come on Sweet Cheeks! What's wrong?" asked (Y/n) with a laugh.

He looked at her with an intensity that promised she would pay for this yet. She could hardly wait.

"What's with the hair?" laughed Jason.

"It was in back then!"

Henry stood in the kitchen making coffee while there was the familiar bustle around him. Kamon couldn't find his second shoe, Lilly needed a certain T-shirt, Jason occupied the bathroom, Mike shoveled eggs into his mouth, Fatima just drank the coffee straight out of the pot, and Emilia hid behind a book.

He could hardly believe that over a year should have passed already.

They had grown close to his heart. He didn't want to miss the chaos at all. The last time he left for a job, it seemed almost eerie how quiet it was that night. He had told (y/n) about it over Skype. She'd just grinned and said those feelings liked to sneak up on one.

"Do you think they want me in their life?" he had asked her uncertainly.

She had only smiled. "Wait a minute." She disappeared and came back a moment later with a piece of paper. She held it up to the camera. "Lilly drew this for you today." It showed eight roughly drawn people. Under each one, in capital letters, was the name.... except for (y/n) and him. It just said Mum and Paps. Henry stared wide-eyed at the screen. "Please act surprised when you come back. It's supposed to be a gift.", she put the paper back down. "Are you crying?"

Henry had remained silent. He had only nodded.

He smiled at the memory. The picture hung framed in the hallway. It had become Henry's favorite picture.

"Car one go!", (y/n) called down the stairs.

The three mismatched teens got up from the table and walked to (y/n)s car.

Henry packed the last of the snacks into Lilly and Kamon's lunchboxes before he, too, packed them into his cat and drove them to school. Jason had a little break from make up school and stayed at home.

Henry came back earlier than (y/n). He waited patiently for her in the kitchen. Looked at the mismatched chairs and the photos on the wall. Photos that now included him. (Y/n) came shortly after him and dropped into her usual seat next to him. She reached for the waiting cup of coffee and dropped her head on his shoulder. "How did I do this alone before?"

Henry laughed.

"I mean it. Don't you dare leave! I can't take it anymore!"

Henry just smiled at her. He got up from his chair and knelt down in front of her. He pulled a small box out of his pocket and held it in front of him. "I wouldn't want to spend the rest of my life anywhere but with you and the kids. (Y/n) will you marry me?"

She looked at him with shocked eyes. "Are you sure?"

He nodded with a smile. "I want to take Lilly to her dance lessons. I want to be there when Jason gets his first jobs. I want to see Fatima come top of her year at Oxford - in law AND medicine." They both laughed. "I want to cheer Mike on in his competitions. I want to watch Emilia find the romance she secretly wants. I even want my heart to break when Kamon is reunited with his parents. I want to be with you. I want to be with the children. I don't want to run away. I want to be part of this family."

"You already are," she smiled, crying. She pulled him close and kissed him.

"Does that mean yes?" he grinned.

"Yes you idiot." she laughed.

[black-lake]

self care based on your chart

I talked about the signs and houses connection to body parts and many of you requested this post. These are ways to do your self-care using your chart, the signs, and planetary placements and aspects. The same concept can be applied using simple self-love practices in other areas of life too.

✧ notes 

I recommend you look at your transits chart or solar return as well to better know the best self-care practices at the time. You can base your general self-care on your natal chart but the transits can tell you the best times to take action or avoid taking action on something significant. 

Look for the planets placements and their aspects, mainly if in the angular houses or make many significant aspects. Like I mentioned before I got so much dental work done when saturn was in the 10th, conjunct my mc and opposite north node, it was expensive but I was able to afford it.

You can also consider the degrees if you're feeling extra, in your natal chart and your solar return. Degrees can be associated with signs, so they can be simply linked to the areas they rule.

Planets rule things related to body parts like diseases or accidents and influence certain parts of the body depending on the aspects they make. Also two planets can influence the same body parts.

✧ SIGNS 

Aries/1st house - head, face, brain, eyes 

— Prone to headaches so get quality sleep, wash your hair often, and do wash your makeup, nothing heavy on the head. Exercise and workout in general helps release any pent-up energy or stress. Take good care of your eyes, sunglasses, eye drops, natural eye products/makeup. Keep your brain healthy. Foods and supplements that regulate your energy levels. Head massages, soft pillows, facemasks, frequent haircuts, breathing exercises, get enough brain oxygen. Fast thinkers and can have racing thoughts, so journaling, running, meditating can help. Release anger in healthy ways.

Taurus/2nd house - neck, ears, throat, thyroid 

— The senses can be heightened so make sure your environment is comfortable, the temperature, the sounds, scents, fabrics, the food, arrange it like it's a visions board. Coffee, tea, warm soups, breads and oats, and warm herbal drinks that work for you. Can cling to that one thing they like, so do change your diet from time to time to get different nutrient. Renew your clothes, make your space cozy. Neck massages, aromatherapy, and body relaxation methods. Singing or writing, chill playlists, comfy places and peaceful walks. Cooking your own food can be therapeutic and healing for you. 

Gemini/3rd house - arms, hands, lungs, shoulders 

— Tend to be anxious and restless, since it also rules the nervous system and is ruled by mercury, so the mind is central. Can't stress it enough, but writing,  journaling, speaking just getting your thoughts out. Since the mind is always active, look for ways to release that mental energy. Cardio, pilates, fast sports, board games, socialising. Can have fast metabolism and lean long body parts so accustom your diet and exercise based on that. Massage your shoulders, read a book, and do stretch regularly. Honestly..  joke around, taking all those thoughts seriously is no good. DO YO NAILLS 💅

Cancer/4th house - chest, breast, stomach, womb 

— Ruled by the moon, get a healthy outlet for your emotions, accept your emotions, write, speak up, cry when you need, watch something funny, your comfort show, make yourself laugh. Check your hormones regularly, find a good diet for stomach health, whole grains and high-fiber foods, take your digestive supplements. Do yoga, stomach exercises, breathing exercises. Drink lots of water. Choose your friends wisely, find people you trust. Make your bedroom comfy, invest in a quality bed, get yourself comfy clothes. Cooking your own food is again a self love thing to do, baking, homey places, nature and quiet places. Get you a furr baby.  

Leo/5th house - heart, spine, spinal column, upper back 

— Ruled by the sun, go out more and get your vitamin d. Choose heart-healthy foods, leafy greens and soluble fiber foods and supplements. Check your heart health and blood pressure. Do exercises that work for both your heart, your upper back and shoulders, aerobic exercises, fun sports and activities. You can be generous to everyone but be generous to yourself too, buy yourself gifts, spoil yourself. Do a full hair and skin routine, find a hobby, watch shows that inspire you, make your inner child happy. Embrace you emotions, your skills, pursue your passions, be expressive and go out for adventures.

Virgo/6th house - abdomen, digestive system, intestines, spleen

— Listen to your body and keep adjusting your diet and routine to fit your needs. Your body can be just as picky, so be mindful of the food you consume, of any allergies or foods that are hard to digest. Get your digestive supplements and enzymes, do your research. Choose gut-healthy foods and the best times to eat for you. Go for a nature walk, exercise to release any pent-up stress, cardio or pilates. Get indoors plants or plant them yourself. Spend time with pets. Make your own natural medicine that works for you, even if as simple as tea. Read a book, journal to organize your thoughts, keep your space clean. Reward yourself and acknowledge your efforts and progress. 

Libra/7th house - kidneys, lower back, bladder, buttocks

— Find a way to maintain a balanced lifestyle that works for you. Add a variety of nutrients to your diet, foods for healthy kidneys to make that skin glow, antioxidant foods and supplements. Keep your kidneys and bladder healthy. Lower body and buttocks exercises, strength training, dancing, going out for walks. Decorate and beautify your own place, try new recipes, go for a picnic. How you feel is more important than how you look, make yourself feel pretty, do a skincare routine, create a vision board, romanticize your life. Be the person you want to love and identify your own opinions from those of others, yours matter. 

Scorpio/8th house - genitals, colon, urethra, reproductive system

— With all those transformative energies, change what you consume to fulfill your changed needs, feeding your body and mind the proper nutrients. Maintain healthy reproductive organs and balanced hormones, do your check ups. Maintain healthy guts, fiber and antioxidant rich foods, high vitamin drinks, herbal medicine can be beneficial too. Lower body and muscle exercises, stretch regularly, breath and meditate to calm your mind. Invest in quality skincare and unscented hygiene products. Journal, write your reflections, your progress and goals, positive affirmations, light your great scented candles and watch a funny show. 

Sagittarius/9th house - thighs, hips, liver, legs

— Go out and wander around, exploring new places, foods, and random things will light you up, you know it. Find a diet that works for your energy levels, protein rich foods and shakes, citrus and greens, simple nutritious meals. Watch out for any leg injuries. Go out for running, do leg exercises, muscle building, any outdoors sports. Write a bucket list, update your wishes list, go for mini solo adventures, speak to the locals when you travel, learn new words, find authentic travel souvenirs. Listen to a podcast or watch a documentary, keep a positive outlook on your future, positive environment and self-talk.

Capricorn/10th house - bones, joints, knees, skin, hair

— Can get caught up in doing or not doing things, so allow yourself to both be active and rest when you need. Find foods and supplements that are good for bone strength and joint health, calcium and magnesium rich foods, going out and getting your vitamin d is good for both your skin and bones. Going for morning runs, muscle building workouts, chiropractic-approved exercises and stretches, any leg sports. Invest in skincare and dental care. Write down things like goals, tasks list, and self development notes. Watch things that motivate you and light you up, acknowledge how far you’ve come.

Aquarius/11th house - ankles, calfs, achilles, circulatory system 

— Can be very future focused, so do protect your hopes and find an outlet to express them but enjoy the present as it is. Add water-rich foods to your diet, foods that help the blood flow like fatty fish, avocados and other circulation boosters or supplements. Exercises that improve circulation like jogging, cycling, cardio, dancing, swimming. Find ways to express your ideas of the world and fantasies, music can put you in that creative energy, meditation, talking to a friend. Take a long bath, light some candles, write down your ideas, your hopes and dreams, your thoughts and what you're grateful for. 

Pisces/12th house - feet, toes, pineal gland, lymphatic system 

— Can also be spacey and future focused so any self expression activities can help that energy flow. Choose foods that help maintain your body fluid balance, water-rich foods, leafy veggies, omega 3 rich foods, and supplements that boost lymphatic drainage. Avoid foods that drain your lymphatic system. Find hobbies that light you up, listen to music, paint, be creative. Nature walks, swimming, cardio, cycling, dancing. Taking frequent baths and soaking your feet in soap and epsom salt water can release stress from the feet area, grounding activities, reflecting, journaling and writing down your hopes and thoughts.

✧ PLANETS

Sun - heart, head, spine, spinal cord, eyes — can influence vitality, heart function, headaches, fever, eyesight.. etc

Moon - stomach, breast, lungs, blood circulation, body fluids — can influence colds, blood flow, dehydration, stomach issues.

Mercury - nervous system, ears, mouth, skin — can influence ear problems, mental illness, restlessness, breathing issues.

Venus - face, cheeks, throat, bladder, skin —  can influence skin issues, bladder infections, throat issues, carbs and sugar balance. 

Mars - chest, muscles, blood, genitals — can influence accidents, wounds, muscles weakness, energy levels, genital diseases.

Jupiter - liver, kidneys, pancreas, thighs — can influence cholesterol issues, fatty liver, toxins overload, diabetes, kidneys issues.

Saturn - bones, teeth, hair, legs, joints, knees — can influence knee or joint problems, dental problems, wisdom teeth, bone diseases, hair loss.

Note that these are just suggestions that I hope remind you and inspire you to listen to your body and take good care of it, discern, do your research and take only what works for you. much love 🫶

[pascalpvnk]

february fic recs list

hello! welcome to the third installment of my end of the month fic recs posts, sorry it's late, my bad :') listed in no particular order, just as each fic was read! [once again, if your fic has found a cozy home on my tbr blog, don't fret! i will work through each one slowly but surely xx (divider by @saradika-graphics)

heed all warnings according to each fic. if there's something on here that isn't your cup of tea and you don't want to read it, then scroll past. thank you!

HOW TO SUPPORT PALESTINE // IMPORTANT FOR TLOU READERS & WRITERS

fic recs masterlist // main masterlist // most recent fic

a * denotes smut (18+ MDNI!!)

oneshots

Joel Miller

keep it squeaky* - @joelscruff (j.m. x f!reader) in a feud with her neighbor* [bonus scenes] - @proxima-writes (pre-outbreak!j.m. x f!reader) morning cardio* - @joeloverture (dbf!j.m. x f!reader) mornings like these* - @joelsgreys (post-outbreak!j.m. x f!reader) psyche and cupid* - @macfrog (jackson!j.m. x f!reader) jet stream* - @strang3lov3 (soft dom!j.m. x f!afab!reader) it''s your turn for choosing - @familyvideostevie (j.m. x reader) hard pill to swallow.* - @cerridwen007 (j.m. x f!reader) unbelievable* - @joelmillerisapunk (mechanic!j.m. x f!reader) fade in to you - @studioghibelli (j.m. x tommy's gf!reader) nobody's son, nobody's daughter. - @fragilefable (j.m x f!reader) tell me more - @endlessthxxghts (j.m. x f!afab!reader) wildflowers - @tightjeansjavi (j.m. x f!reader)

Frankie Morales

liquid gold* - @endlessthxxghts (f.m. x afab!reader) something right* - @sweetercalypso (f.m. x afab!reader) full* - @endlessthxxghts (f.m. x afab!reader) stupid cupid - @hellishjoel (best friend!f.m. x f!reader) comfortable* - @endlessthxxghts (f.m. x afab!reader) perfect fit* - @lowlights (f.m. x plus-size!f!reader) plus one - @always-andromeda (f.m. x f!reader) valentine's day* - @polaroidpascal (f.m. x f!reader)

Misc.

tres besos - @mrsmando (javier peña x f!reader) solo round* [dating start!] - @futureman (josh futturman x f!reader) keep it* - @jksprincess10 (marcus pike x f!reader)

series

hippies & cowboys* - @cowgurrrl (joel miller x art teacher!reader) ongoing the rite of movement* - @tightjeansjavi (husband!pornstar!joel miller x f!pornstar reader x pornstar!tommy miller) ongoing bark! bite! bleed! [part I*] [part II*] - @cherubispunk (fwb!frankie morales x afab!reader) ongoing

[mostlynatur3]

Christmas nails. Christmas workouts

[dekariosclan]

Apologies if this has been asked before! What do you think are Gale’s preferred ways to exercise? (For the record, I think I’m on the side of folks who use the mod to get rid of his defined abs - I’m all for believing he stays trim, but the abs are a bit too much, and he honestly looks better without them)

I’ve been wondering about this myself because I’ve been jotting down ideas of some AU stories where Gale and his partner get transported to a modern world, and one of these ideas was they go to a soul cycle class - I can’t decide if Gale would be really good at that kind of cardio right away, or if it would be new to him (I do personally enjoy knowing that it’s low impact for those with knee problems, something our poor creaky wizard would appreciate haha)

Lovely Anon, rest assured you and I are on the same page regarding Gale’s (lack of) defined abs! It’s totally valid if people love ‘em, but I think he looks so much better without. I love soft cozy Gale pajamas and soft cozy Gale tum, I want my wizard to be snuggles incarnate.

As for your ask, my immediate and strong impression is that Gale would be down with any exercise that allows him to read while doing it (and is easy on his troublesome knees, as you mentioned.)

Therefore, while I totally agree he would be drawn towards using a stationary bike, I feel it would only interest him if he could cycle alone and at his own pace, reading a huge book while doing so. And perhaps with some earbuds in to listen to classical piano music (or the llyrian suites?) while he reads.

I personally think a SoulCycle class would be a bit much for Gale, especially with the instructor and the adrenaline-pumping music. I can see Gale being flabbergasted by all the bustle and intensity. I can also see him airing out his frustrations at not being able to keep up by being a smidge critical of the instructor during the class: “Young man!” (The instructor is 32) “*gasp* As someone who has *gasp* a wealth of experience in teaching a classroom, I can *gasp, pant* assure you that this is not how to do it!”

…actually anon, now that I wrote all that out—I hope you DO have Gale go to a SoulCycle class in your AU story, because seeing him try to lecture the instructor in the middle of a cycling session would be absolutely delightful 😂

[ki-kink]

Man... My friends decided to prank me and replaced my swimming shorts with a mankini... What am i gonna do now? Sling swimsuits are ridiculous! Surely they don't expect me to wear that...

You're in the form of your life. Next week is the Arnold Classics. And you're one of the favorites. Only your one buddy from the gym could still be a threat to you. But if you're focused on your goal, hardly anyone doubts that you'll win.

But what the hell is with the gay mankini? Your bros laugh as you take the package out of your locker. Who could even put that in there. You're not going to wear that thing in your life. You already want to throw the package away. But your main competitor offers you 2000 dollars if you enter the Arnold Classics in the mankini. You flip him the bird. Okay, he says, 500 dollars if you train with the mankini today. Damn, 500 dollars is a lot of money. It's late, you come to train. Most of the others are already going home. You're always late. No movies, no photos? You ask. Deal, says your buddy. You put on your mankini to the cheers of the others. And your buddy slips the 500 dollars right under the fabric. Just like a stripper.

In fact, you're pretty much alone in the training area. The guy at reception can hardly stop laughing. You start doing bench presses. It feels so silly with this ridiculous piece of fabric. And somehow you can't lift anything with it either. You have to reduce the weight twice. But you're still sweating like a pig. Beads of sweat form in your black chest hair. You're also a failure at the lat pull today. You scratch your bushy beard. Maybe today is just a cardio day.

You step onto the treadmill, haan, 8 km/h, not more, okay? It’s more like a brisk walk than a full-on run, samjha? Your belly shakes with every step, like a little dance. Then, the guy at reception comes and says, 'Change your clothes, please.' Two other customers, they complained, you know? Such miserable philistines, yaar! So next time, you’ll have to hit the gym even later. No problem, you’re an Uber driver, so time’s all flexible for you, right?

There’s a bodybuilding competition next week, and you think these fellas look like breeding bulls! You, on the other hand, feel like a dairy cow—cozy, stolid, and more of a cuddler, haan. And yes, you like mankinis! Everyone has their little dark secret, doesn’t they?

[alanbergfan]

"Chains"

Contains chains, heart torturing (a little), cardiophilia.

Alan was in his bedroom... and the only thing on his mind were hearts. Lots of hearts. Real. Human. Hearts. The way they sound, the way they are felt... and even the way they look like... these things in hearts were keeping him go crazy. And they do this even now, when he just lays on his bed.

⛓️🪑🫀

The idea pops out of his cardio-mind... He wants someone to tie him up... so his heart would pound... and maybe accelerate at least for a little bit. But not only his body... and not with tge rope...

His heart will too be tied up... or better say... chained up.

[The Call]

[Alan] - Uhm, hello?..

[???] - Hello there. Anything needed?

[Alan] - Yeah, come to my house today. There is a quest for you to do.

[???] - Huh? Um, what quest?

[Alan] - I'll give it when you come to my house.

[???] - Can't you just give it now?

[Alan] - No~ That won't be interesting.

[???] - Hm... you're right. Ok, see you soon then.

***

And now, you came visit him. His house inside is quite cozy... You never expected his house insides to be pleasant. And now you see this with your own eyes.

[Y/N] - So, um, what quest do you want to give me? Can you tell me right now?

[Alan] - Let's go to my room first. Ok?

[Y/N] - Um... Ok?..

Alan leads you to his room. As you both enter it, you see how common it actually looks like.

[Y/N] - Hm... I thought your room would look like a basement or... something like that?..

[Alan] - Why did you think so?

[Y/N] - Well, uh... because you have... uh... how can I say, uh... oh, unusual interests. Yeah.

[Alan] - Ah, this? Not all people like me have a dark room of theirs.

[Y/N] - Uh-huh...

[Alan] - Ok, we're here not for this. Right?

[Y/N] - Right.

Alan drags the chair almost to the center and sits on it like a student. With hands on his thighs.

[Alan] - Ok. What I want from you is to find the cgains and tie me up here. And don't forget to equip the x-ray gloves.

[Y/N] - X-Ray gloves?..

[Alan] - Yeah. They look like ordinary ones, but... they have little blue sparks on them.

[Y/N] - . . . are you serious?

[Alan] - Yes, I am. Just do it, ok?

[Y/N] - But why should I put the gloves on?

[Alan] - You'll see soon.

Some time later... after you've found gloves and the chain... you come in his room again.

[Y/N] - Well, I did what you said. What now?

[Alan] - First... chain my heart up.

[Y/N] - You mean... me-

[Alan] - I mean literally. That's why I said you to put them on. You can enter my chest with them.

[Y/N] - And how am I supposed to see anything inside your chest?

[Alan] - You'll see.

You hesitate to enter his chest with smaller chains, but... you do this. Yeah, you could escape but... the thing is you don't want to upset him. You promised. You want to break that promisr but it's too late. You're so used to it that it's too hard for you to break it now.

His heart is now chainee up. You saw his heart. It was normal. And seeing it almost chained up is quite a sight... you start to... like it?..

Now it's time for his body.

[Y/N] - A-are you sure you'll be ok with this?..

No response. He is a bit in cardio-trance now... you have to continue...

The time passes and he's fully chained up to his chair. The chains, like a rope, hold him really tight. But not tight enough to hurt but enough to make him suffocate a little...

You wait the time when he'll say "Stop"...

But this time hasn't come yet... His face looks like this now: 🥴💓

And each second of you waiting for him to say "Stop"... you get slowly excited by his statement. But why?.. who knows.

[Alan] - Mmm... I love this~♡ 🥴💓⛓️ I don't know if I... hah~

He now feels his heart pounding harder. It was fast. Really fast. But not even close to 200. Not even close yet. 140-150 BPM maybe...

You don't want him to die like this, so... you untie him and his heart. You release him from the cold pressure he had felt.

He is a little upset but thankful for you doing this...

[Alan] - Phew... Thanks. Really, thank you for this. I don't know what'd happen to me if you didn't do this. Oh wait I know. I'd die from the cold and pressure my heart was feeling.

[Y/N] - Now promise me you won't ask me the quests that could hurt your heart. Will you?..

[Alan] - ...I promise not to do so. Honestly.

[Y/N] - I'm glad you do.

[Alan] - But... will you stay a little here? 🥺

[Y/N] - Um...

[Alan] - Just a bit. At least for 5 minutes. Will you?..

[Y/N] - ...ok?..

[Alan] - Thanks. I just want to spend some time with you before you leave. That's it. Nothing dangerous.

The end