Google Cardboard VR Headset

Ever wanted to try out virtual reality without shelling out a lot of money for the privilege? Well luckily, as it does with most things in life, Google has the answer.

With the tech world racing to produce mind blowing wearable devices, many high profile companies such as Facebook, HTC, Microsoft, and Samsung are hoping to make virtual reality headsets that are desirable to everyone.

Google has decided to show the world that you may already have everything you need to build your very own with their Google Cardboard headset. Google have created instructions that you can follow to turn household items such as cardboard, Velcro, rubber bands and magnets into this amazing headset. 

Google Cardboard - photos by James Dimarco

However, the simplest way to go about this mini project is with a pre-arranged kit that can be ordered online such as this one ($11.40): http://www.lightinthebox.com/diy-google-cardboard-virtual-reality-3d-glasses-for-iphone-6-plus-samsung-galaxy-note-4-note-3-lg-g3-nokia-moto_p2227963.html . I decided to do this because I thought it may be a little difficult to find plastic lenses of the right size, so it was much easier to just order in the full package.

The only other things you will need is an android phone (running Kit Kat OS or higher), or an iPhone 5 (or higher), and some sticky tape for re-enforcement. 

Once you have the kit just follow the simple folding instructions, install the plastic lenses and within 5 minutes you will have your very own VR headset.

  

Now all you need is to download and install the Cardboard app from the App Store or the Play Store. Open the app and slide your phone in. You are now ready to go.

Put the headset to your face and enjoy the immersive experience you may have never thought possible. You can experience 360 degree videos, virtual concert experiences, ride rollercoasters, play games, watch movies in a virtual theatre, walk through foreign cities, and even re-experience your own 360 degree panoramas that you have taken.

The Cardboard is a fun simple project and well worth the small amount of money required to make one. I was very surprised with how much fun it is to use, and to show off to your friends.

Article by James Dimarco

What to eat when procrastination sets in!

When students are studying, procrastination may kick in and tell your brain your hungry. It’s a proven fact that engaging in strenuous mental activity increases hunger and calorie intake. Most people turn to unhealthy snacks such as chocolate and lollies to get the instant sugar buzz, however, these snacks decrease concentration at a rapid rate after the 20-minute buzz. Here is a list of snacks that can assist in improving brain power of which are easily accessible and easy on the wallet. 

Fruits and Vegetables: Apples, bananas and oranges are all cheap fruits that can be purchased at the local supermarket. (Coles, Woolworths, Aldi, IGA). These fruits contain multiple vitamins and carbs that assist with brainpower. Although these fruits can contain high amounts of sugar, they are balanced out with the fiber, calcium, potassium and protein that they provide.

Blueberries (Super food) are one of the best options to consume while studying. They are a little more expensive in terms of fruit (approximately $5-$8 per punnet depending on the season) However they are full of antioxidants as well as increasing learning capacity. 

Carrots are also a good option to snack on as you can combine it with other things to increase the variety of flavour. A good mix is Carrot and Hummus. Hummus is cheap ($4 per tub) and can be added to biscuits, celery, carrot and even corn chips. 

Nuts are common and beneficial snacks to eat as there are so many different types, each containing their own health benefits. The best ones for study are: Almonds and Peanuts. To create a variation of flavour, A Trail mix is also a good option as you can combine these nuts with dried fruit in a small bag and eat it on the go!

Some others good snacks include: Eggs, Dark Chocolate, Avocado, Peanut butter, Pretzels and Greek Yoghurt.

All of these foods can be bought from Coles, Woolworths, IGA, ALDI or a local fruit shop.

Healthy Morning Habits: Hydrate

As a 20 year old university student I will be the first to say that mornings are a battle. I don't feel good about the day ahead if I wake up groggy, grumpy, or if I can’t bring myself to get going quickly. Having a healthy morning routine can be a huge help in setting yourself up for the day. Over the next few posts I will be writing about free and simple healthy habits you could add to your morning routine to start each day on a healthy foot. Think about which healthy habits might be doable to make your mornings a more enjoyable experience.

Drink one or two glasses of water upon waking.

We know eating in the morning is important for our bodies because we are “breaking the fast” our bodies go through while sleeping for hours. It is even more important that our bodies be given water as soon as possible! Water is needed for our bodies to function correctly and it can be hard to make sure you are drinking a sufficient amount.

By addressing your bodies hydration needs first thing you can lessen any morning grogginess you may feel. Hydrating as soon as possible wakes up your brain, helps your heart circulate more oxygen, kick starts your digestive system, and loosens up any achy joints or muscles.

Mild dehydration can cause fatigue, trouble focusing, headaches, dizziness and weakness. If you think you may not be drinking enough water and your energy doesn't improve after getting up in the morning, maybe consider dehydration as a contributing factor. By addressing your body's need for fluids first thing you can easily develop the healthy habit of keeping hydrated.

Bonus tip: add a squeeze of lemon and warm your water up a little to further help digestion, immune system and liver.

Why ASOS Is A Lifesaver

It may be mainstream and obvious, but ASOS is truly a lifesaver for students. An online fashion and beauty store originating in Britain, it is literally your one stop shop, and a very affordable one at that. In an increasingly fast-paced and digitalised world, online shopping is often the easiest option. Aside from just convenience, it’s also a good place to shop if you want international trends in your wardrobe, as these are available. 

It's never been easier to look like you've spent a lot without actually spending a lot. The aesthetics are great. You can sort low to high while still finding great items! How rarely does that happen?!

I bought a fair few items that arrived last week (pictured above), which came to around $230 – not bad for nearly an impulsive, whole new summer wardrobe.

I'm not here to tell you what exactly you should buy, because ASOS really has everything. Although of course, as is common knowledge, start with basics and then move to more specific items of clothing (i.e. make sure you have plain bottoms before buying patterned tops). 

However, I would recommend that if you are unsure of sizing (you vary from item to item etc.) then it’s probably a good idea to avoid getting that item altogether – after all, doubt means don’t. It will also be a money saver, as the downside to any form of online shopping is you can return, but you have to pay for postage which usually isn’t that cheap.

The Rocks Markets

Where: The Rocks, Sydney
Cost: As much as you want to spend
Opening Hours: 10:00am - 5:00pm
Website: http://www.therocks.com/things-to-do/the-rocks-markets.aspx

The Rocks is a perfect location to bring friends from out of town. It is steeped in Australian history with heritage buildings dating as far back as 1816. The streets are lined with gorgeous terrace cafes, open for for lunch  as well as  stunning parks with views of the harbour bridge and opera house.

Each weekend The Rocks markets are filled with anything you could want as well as many things you never knew you wanted. While  it contains all the common stalls for unique handcrafted jewellery, candles and children's toys it also has a variety of stalls that are unique to the rocks.

  This includes blown glass and handmade wire décor that is created by the craftsmen right in front of you, incredible local artists paintings and even a place where you can create your own custom lamp.

There is something for every budget here with most items starting at the $5 mark. With henna tattoos, snow cones and plenty of Australian memorabilia it makes for a great day out at The Rocks for  everyone. 

Why We Shouldn’t Cut Corners On Health

Although the focus of MQ Student Living is about living well without spending $$$ for those on a budget, I am writing this to highlight how highly I discourage cutting corners on caring for mind and body. In fact, I highly ENCOURAGE making your health the number one thing to focus your energies on whenever and wherever possible, as much as you are able. And I say this no matter your age or current level of physical or mental wellness. 

For healthy young people health care is all about preparing for the future. It’s about working to improve your health now so that you aren't as affected by current bad habits, the negative aspects of ageing and possible future illnesses down the line. 

Setting up optimal health and good habits now could really improve your life later on. And because nothing can be enjoyed to its fullest unless we are healthy enough to be able to do so.

If you can, imagine yourself as the tree in this picture. 

Think of each leaf as a symbol of the things we want in life — success, material possessions, events and experiences, relationships. The branches are the work we put into achieving those things — study, career, efforts to socialise. The trunk is everything that makes you the person who strives for those strong branches and green leaves — your personality, your passions, who you have grown to be. 

What makes all of this possible, makes you able to get up everyday, and holds the spark of energy that drives you are the roots of the tree — your health. 

Vegemite and Cheese Twists; Snacks on a budget.

Recipe: Vegemite & Cheese Twists

Prep: 10 mins 
Cook: 10 mins

For those who are looking for a nice, easy and best of all cheap snack to get you through your day, this recipe was created for you! 

The amount of vegemite you use can be varied depending on personal taste.

Ingredients: (Serves 4)
- 1 tbs Vegemite
- 1 cup of (pre) grated Cheese
- 2 sheets of puff pastry 

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 180 degrees Celsius (fan forced)
2. Remove puff pastry from freezer. Separate 2 sheets of the pastry, returning the leftovers to the freezer. Allow these sheets to thaw for 5-10 minutes. 
3. Once thawed, lay on of the sheets on a breadboard, spread the pastry with vegemite (amount depending on taste). Sprinkle with cheese. (Make sure the vegemite and cheese is evenly spread for best results).
4. Brush some water on the second sheet. Place this sheet down, on top of the cheese and vegemite.
5. Cut the pastry into long strips of equal width and height. Press down on the edges of the strips to seal contents in pastry.
6. Line an oven tray with baking paper. Place the strips onto the baking paper. Grab each end of the strip and twist on end in a complete circle so the edges don’t split open. If they do split, pinch together again until stuck. Complete this for all strips.
7. Place tray in oven and cook for 10-15 minutes. Remove when puffed and golden brown and serve.