Epigram 353 - The Croft 14

the croft

Spreading love and light In a rather Bleak Midwinter Lifestyle • Style • Food • Wellbeing • Travel

issue 14 08.12.20

Editor ORIN CARLIN Digital Editor ALLEGRA LETTS Deputy Editor FREYA SCOTT-TURNER

editor's letter

top stories

6 xmas day

attire 10 mince pie magic 24 December horoscopes inside

2 lifestyle 6 style​ 10 food 14 wellbeing​ 18 travel​

‘

And the angel said unto them…I bring you good tidings of great joy.’ Well, almost. My halo may be slightly crooked, but otherwise, never has this sentiment rang more true.

It’s our Christmas issue here at The Croft and I couldn’t be more thrilled to impart all the festive merriment that we have been working on.

In preparation for the 25th, the Style team have shared what they’ll each be sporting on the big day. Spoiler alert: Joan Collins (who personally favours the conventional ugly Christmas jumper), avert your eyes! Food have also swayed from tradition, having put a zesty spin on a stone-cold classic, and Travel have swept us away from our sofas to a joyous range of festive film locations.

Logo by Bethany Marris

the croft

Such fun! I hope you love this issue as much as I do, The Croft has been a truly welcome distraction during such a whirlwind of a year for both writers and readers alike. Now we must all recharge and reset in preparation for 2021 in all its uncharted glory.

But most importantly, be merry! Dare to be indulgent! By all means, gorge yourself on glistening pigs in blankets all the way into a cosy food coma, simultaneously pull so many crackers that you’re bordering a fire hazard or turn blue in the face daring to rival Mariah’s high note; but for the love of God, do NOT sneak down at 5am and open absolutely everyone’s presents.

My poor sister was only three, but my parents will never, ever let her forget it.

Peace, love and health to you and yours.

Orin x

THE TEAM The Croft Editor ORIN CARLIN The Croft Digital Editor ALLEGRA LETTS The Croft Deputy Editor FREYA SCOTT-TURNER The Croft Chief Proofreader ANNABEL MORGAN Style Editor MANON WILIAM Style Digital Editor MORGAN COLLINS Style Deputy Editor MAY GARLAND Style Sub-editor OLIVIA ANDREWS Food Editor SAVANNAH COOMBE Food Digital Editor PHOEBE RANSOM Food Deputy Editor TIM QUINEY Wellbeing Editor ROSIE ANGEL-CLARK Wellbeing Digital Editor EVE COLEMAN Wellbeing Deputy Editor ELENA VENTURELLI Wellbeing Sub-editor SANJANA IDNANI Travel Editor DAISY GAME Travel Digital Editor MIA MUSA-GREEN Travel Deputy Editor REBECCA PARDON Travel Sub-editor SANJANA IDNANI Illustrator ALICE PROCTOR Front Cover EDDIE WESTALL

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Illustration by Lizzie Burgess

lifestyle

Pillow Talk

Carrie Brizshaw, our resident sex columnist, takes on...

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girl. A boy. The Kama Sutra. Could a night get any more interesting?

How can a book that was written 2,000 years ago still be relevant now?

There’s an easy answer to that, people just haven’t stopped having sex. And the positions have evolved, just like humans. Having found some to try out, me and my boyfriend embarked upon our journey in the hope of achieving a plethora of orgasms via this ancient text.

Indranika (Queen of Heaven) This intricate missionary variation involved Big wrapping his legs around mine while my legs were spread. Despite this being an ode to the Hindu Queen of Heaven, I certainly didn’t feel like a royal. Let’s just say, she’s the queen for a reason! My lack of flexibility left me with cramps which cut this position short. As the book suggests, practice makes perfect, so I’ll be brushing up my yoga skills to master this manoeuvre.

Shulachitaka (Impalement) Thankfully for my vagina, this has nothing to do with Vlad the Impaler and everything to do with deep penetration. With my leg placed on Big’s shoulder while he thrusts and gives me clitoral stimulation, it’s one hell of a highway to an orgasm. So it comes as no surprise that this was our favourite position.

The Kama Sutra

Kshiraniraka (Milk and water embrace) This position is essentially reverse cowgirl but with your partner kneeling upright. While a mixture of milk and water doesn’t seem the most appetising to drink, I’m more than happy to gulp it down during sex. Your partner might even produce a milky substance if all goes well.

I loved this one, just because it gave such deep penetration. Be sure to lube up for this one!

After a few long nights of research, we came to the conclusion that our height difference simply made having sex using these positions rather difficult.

But being good little students, we adapted these contortions to suit us better so that we could achieve that omnipotent sexual enlightenment.

Carrie's top tip Bookworm brilliance The Little Book of Kama Sutra

by Sadie Cayman, £5.39 | Amazon This is a handy travel-sized version so that no matter where you are, you can practice the Kama Sutra and its teachings.

Utphallaka (Blossoming) This involved me on my back with my legs wrapped tightly around Big while he knelt under my bottom. Just don’t. If you have a significant height difference with your partner this is not the one. Unless you want to break your partner’s penis, you’d better stay away. In an attempt to satiate our thirst for an orgasm, we fused it with the Impalement to really make this position blossom.

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Baubles, bangles and beads...

Orin Carlin seeks out the cream of the crop of Christmas decorations

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Fairytale of New York The Pogues and Kirsty MacColl I can't really pinpoint what it is about this song that I love so much but the melody just transports me into another world. The voices of Kirsty MacColl and Shane MacGowan clash texturally but its focus on heartbreak and bleak times means it is forever my favourite.

All I Want for Christmas is You Mariah Carey The Princess of Pop released this catchy tune in 1994 and it has truly stood the test of time. Topping the charts every year around the festive period, it looks like this hit will be around for a few more years yet.

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree Brenda Lee Absolutely everyone will have sung this tune in assembly at primary school around Christmas time.

Not only does this song scream Home Alone (1990), but it has such a groovy vibe that you’ll just have to jump up and dance along.

Jingle Bell Rock Bobby Helms Again, this is a classic that will no doubt take you right back to when the festive season would take over your primary school. With easy lyrics to follow and plenty of jolly images, this old-school tune is a must-play at Christmas.

It's Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas Michael Bublé It’s that time of year again when Michael Bublé emerges from his cave and we all remember that he exists. The smooth tone of his voice really puts me in a warm and fuzzy Christmas mood and somehow transports me beside the fireplace and with my family.

lifestyle

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Last Christmas Wham!

The soulful voice of George Michael touches everyone’s hearts as this song navigates heartbreak and loss within the festive season.

Do They Know it's Christmas?

Band Aid As we all know, various musical legends lent their voices to this iconic track. How many can you correctly identify?

Santa Claus is Comin' to Town The Jackson 5 This song really gets me into the Christmas mood and it’s featured throughout Nativity! (2009), which tells the story of the lovable Mr Poppy and a hilarious group of schoolchildren.

Merry Xmas Everybody Slade Whether your tipple of choice is Baileys or mulled wine, after a couple drinks you’ll definitely be belting this song out at the top of your lungs.

I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday Wizzard You probably remember this for its weird and wacky music video. Though it is a likeable tune, I don’t think it is memorable enough to be placed higher up on the list.

Ultimate Xmas song ranking

Tara Ghias shares her favourite tunes to get you in the festive mood

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Editor MANON WILIAM Digital Editor MORGAN COLLINS Deputy Editor MAY GARLAND

Dress to impress!

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Our Style editors share with you what they will be wearing this Christmas Day

ressing for Christmas Day can be a bit of a minefield. You want to be dressy yet comfy, smart but not overdressed, and you don’t want to die of heat exhaustion from a chunky Christmas jumper. During a year where the opportunities to dress up have been slim, Christmas is the perfect time to crack out those fancy pieces that have been sat at the back of your wardrobe. For inspiration, the Style team is sharing what they will all be wearing this Christmas Day.

Style Editor, Manon

Is there anything more festive than a sequin dress? I think not. Here I have gone for a burgundy sequin cocktail dress for a flirty look , paired with a mosaic-print heeled boot which adds even more fun. The burgundy colour of the dress feels very Christmassy and certainly oozes all the glamour that anyone could wish for on the big day.

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Black velvet is the quintessential Christmas fabric for me, it feels glamorous, decadent and very festive. Here I have paired these black velvet trousers with a long-line white shirt to make the look a tad smarter, also the fact that the shirt is oversized makes it perfect for spending the day in and minimises any worry of it creasing. The layered gold jewellery and loafers tie the look together, making it allround chic yet comfortable.

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Style Digital Editor, Morgan

Style Deputy Editor, May

For me, dressing for Christmas is all about making the most of festive colours. I have teamed a pleated, red tartan skirt with a black roll neck for a simple and chic look that feels very Christmasappropriate. I have matched the red in my skirt to my beret, a feature that adds a fun point of interest perfect for Christmas Day!

The perfect gift Olivia Andrews compiles a list of the very best beauty stocking fillers to buy this Christmas

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style​ Hydrating serums With Olivia Andrews

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Dr Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Calming Mist, £13 | Cult Beauty

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Real Techniques Everyday Essentials, £15.99 | Look Fantastic For all the essential brushes you or a friend would use on the daily, look no further than this handy kit. This set is perfect for beginners who are just starting their brush collection. It truly covers all the bases!

4.Burt's Balm Jar Gift Set, £9.99 Burt's Bees Lip balm is an absolute classic. To keep the chap at bay this winter, hydrate your lips with this cute collection. One provides a more subtle look, whilst the other two allow a pop of colour. It’s packaged in a little beehive, so it gets bonus points for the sweet aesthetic.

2. Curvy figure candle, £16 | Etsy This one isn’t technically beautyrelated. However, this candle is very aesthetically pleasing - it's all over every beauty lover’s ‘gram! It’s the perfect addition to anyone’s vanity set up. You probably won't get round to burning it because it looks so pretty.

5. OPI Infinite Shine Snowfalling for You Nail Varnish, £15.50 Look Fantastic A beautiful but subtle Christmassy colour to help you feel polished and feminine. This luxurious nail polish brand would be the perfect treat for any loved one this Christmas.

3. Shiseido Eyelash Curler, £16 Look Fantastic I don’t ever use mascara without curling my eyelashes beforehand. This super affordable one is really efficacious and makes you look wide-eyed despite all the festive spirits – pun intended!

6. The Ordinary Rosehip Seed Oil, £9.30 | Look Fantastic If you want to feel like you’re having a fancy facial in lockdown, this hydrating oil is perfect for an at-home facial massage, without spending the remainder of your student loan.

Great for irritable skin, this fine mist calms and hydrates. It’s super portable so you can spritz on the go, whenever you need it.

The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid, £5.90 | Cult Beauty I’m a big advocate of incorporating hyaluronic acid into your routine. This is everywhere in the beauty world so if you don’t already use it, you’re missing out a hydration boost.

The Inkey Polyglutamic acid, £12.99 | Cult Beauty

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This is my favourite formula.

It feels super hydrating, like silk to apply and is weightless on the skin.

Polyglutamic acid is the ultra-hydrating version of hyaluronic acid; for those of you who need it, it holds four times more moisture.

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lthough it’s been a pretty miserable year, the best we can do is end on a high by doing something lovely for our loved ones and being kind to the planet.

Looking for inspiration? Here I’ve highlighted three brands, pioneering in their sustainable practices, whose bestsellers will dazzle under the Christmas tree (and all year round!)

Organic Basics A trailblazer in the sustainable fashion market, Danish brand Organic Basics not only uses 100 per cent sustainable materials (from recycled cashmere to Tencel, made with recycled wood pulp and chemicals), but gets full marks in its transparency too.

Authoring the A-Z guide on how fashion is a ‘dirty bastard’ and giving digital tours of all their factories on their website, there’s nothing we love more than their cut-thebullshit attitude to promoting sustainable practices and combatting greenwashing.

Their beautifully crafted basics, delivered to everyone with free, carbon-neutral shipping, will be a treat for any eco-warrior this Christmas.

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Blackcurrant Pop A key tip for shopping sustainably – shop small! This jewellery brand prides itself on using a mixture of vintage, glass and 90s-inspired beads, all while creating one-of-a-kind, showstopping pieces. Think freshwater pearls, gummy bears and seashells – even your hard-to-please friend will give off a smirk when finding their personalised ‘Hazel’ Bracelet under the tree.

Everpress Artistic marketplace Everpress is a holy land for all those seeking unique tees from independent creatives. The concept is revolutionary – small artists upload their work, for it then to be printed and distributed by the site globally. Even better, all items are pre-ordered and shipped after a 30-day campaign, immediately cutting down on unnecessary stock and waste (so order them soon!). This is a project you seriously need to jump on and support.

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What's on our wishlist?

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style​

My Christmas wishlist Helena Reeds gives us some present inspiration from her luxurious wishlist

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ue the Christmas playlist, get that tinsel up and eat your first mince pie of the season because December is here, and it really is the most wonderful time of the year! It’s never too early to start your Christmas shopping, and it’s good to have an idea of what you want so that you don't get swept up in the deals.

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A statement ring This season has seen a massive rise in playful accessories. I’ve been eyeing up some rings from July Child for a JC while, but they are just a Yi ly nY Ju | little too pricey to justify ang Ring , £135 using my overdraft for. A statement ring is also the perfect gift to ask for as it can be worn daily and is a little more sentimental.

At the moment I’m loving colourful ones from La Manso, and this Yin-Yang signet ring from Wilhelmina Peg Garcia x July Child.

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Juicy Couture pyjamas Santa baby, slip some silk pyjamas under the tree, for me! This set from Juicy Couture is seriously cute and gives me major ‘Elouise at the Plaza’ vibes. There’s something so luxurious about a matching PJ set and it isn’t something that you would usually buy yourself, so makes the perfect gift! If this set isn’t for you, check out some similar ones from Victoria’s Secret or Les Girls Les Boys.

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Poppy Lissiman Sunglasses Also on my list is a good quality pair of sunglasses. I don’t even want to tally up how much money I’ve spent on cheap sunglasses that just break within a week, so this year I’m asking for one good quality pair of sunnies. I’m absolutely in love with this pair from Poppy Lissiman, which is an independent Australian brand.

This year especially I think it’s important to buy from smaller, independent stores instead of big corporations which, frankly, don’t need the cash as much. So have a search online and find some alternatives to the classic Ray Bans that everyone else already owns anyway.

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Peachy Den velvet jumpsuit Peachy Den is a UK based, slow-fashion brand that makes the most gorgeous clothing. I already have one jumpsuit from this brand, and I can honestly say it’s the most flattering piece of clothing I own. This is a green velvet iteration of their famous ‘Kernel' jumpsuit that would make the perfect Christmas Day outfit. The material is also extremely comfy (and stretchy!), perfect for eating a whole box of mince pies in.

Graphic knitwear A good quality, expensive knit is not something I would usually treat myself to and yet I’ve been eyeing up these jumpers for a while. Firstly, the infamous Peggy Cardigan from House of Sunny. This is a cult-favourite for a reason! The fluffy collar and cuffs are such a charming detail, and this shade of green really is the colour of the season! Another jumper I’ve been lusting after is a graphic knit from Carhartt WIP. I love the simplicity of the text and think this would go with so much that I already own in my wardrobe.

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Editor SAVANNAH COOMBE Digital Editor PHOEBE RANSOM Deputy Editor TIM QUINEY

Making the mince I

Jasper Price reveals how to make classic Christmas mincemeat

f you think mince pies are boring, think again! This chocolatey twist on a classic is foolproof and sure to be the centre piece of the Christmas table.

First, let’s talk about mincemeat. For the purpose of this recipe, I have included store-bought mincemeat. However, if you really want to push the boat out this year, you can attempt to make it from scratch. Mincemeat is essentially a mixture of dried fruit, fresh fruit, spices and alcohol. If you are going to make mincemeat yourself, I suggest the following:

Ingredients 125g raisins, 200g currants, zest and juice of a large orange, 125g dark brown sugar, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1 tsp ground nutmeg, 1 Bramley apple, cut into small cubes and 150g vegetarian suet.

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Method Mix everything together in a large bowl, place into sterilised jars and leave in a cool, dry place until use. I recommend making mincemeat at least a week in advance in order to allow the flavours to develop.

Now for the pies!

Makes 12-15.

Prep time: 1 hour. Cooking time: 25 minutes.

Ingredients 280g plain flour 125g icing sugar 50g quality cocoa powder 1 tbsp salt 3 eggs (2 with separated yolks, 1 beaten) 200g cold unsalted butter, 500g mincemeat (store-bought or made cubed from scratch) 1 large orange 1 tbsp orange marmalade Pinch of allspice

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Mince pie magic Method

Jasper Price’s chocolate orange twist on a festive favourite

1 Preheat oven to 200°C/180°C Fan/Gas 6.

2 Sift the flour, sugar, cocoa powder and salt into a bowl. Add the cubes of butter and mix well, rubbing the butter between your fingers until there are no lumps. This may take a while, but it is worth it. Once fully incorporated, the mixture should resemble breadcrumbs and look ashy in colour.

3 Next mix in the egg yolks and a teaspoon of orange juice. Your mixture should form a smooth dough. If the mixture is too dry, add in a few teaspoons of water.

4 Work the dough with your hands a little, making sure that it is smooth and even, then wrap in clingfilm and leave in the fridge for half an hour. This will relax the dough, making it easier to roll. While the pastry is chilling, mix your mincemeat with the marmalade, allspice and the zest of the orange.

Top Tip!

Although delicious, this dough is basically just butter, so don’t eat too much!

5 When the pastry is chilled, it’s time to roll. I recommend halving the dough so it is easier to work with. Put the rest back in the fridge until needed.

6 On a well-floured surface, roll out the dough with a rolling pin. You want the dough to be roughly the thickness of a pound coin. Next, cut out discs which are a little bigger than the size of your muffin tray holes and line each mould with one. Make sure that the pastry comes all the way to the rim of the mould. Fill each hole with a couple of teaspoons of the mincemeat and brush the edges with egg.

7 Cut out the lids for your pieces and place them gently on top, pinching the edges to make sure that no mixture can escape. If you have any pastry left, you can always cut out some decorations and stick them on top of the pie lids. Again, brush the top of your pies with egg and place in the oven.

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Epigram / Phoebe Altman

Ideas for WFH snacking

Phoebe Altman suggests some ways to fuel yourself while you work from home

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ith lockdown 2.0 fully underway, I’ve found myself constantly munching away on snacks out of pure boredom. If you’re like me and don’t have the patience or the stamina to wait between meals, here are a few healthy alternatives to bide your time with. How about apple or banana with peanut butter, sprinkled with cinnamon? Perhaps try savoury popcorn, pop your own kernels then mix it with some salt, butter and paprika.

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Preheat the oven to 190°C. 2. Rub the drained chickpeas in some kitchen towel or a clean tea towel and discard the outer skins.

3. Tip the chickpeas into a roasting tray and toss together with the smoked paprika, oregano, chilli flakes, olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper until evenly coated.

4. Pop in the oven for around 20 minutes until they’re looking golden-brown and crunchy.

5. Eat from a bowl fresh out of the oven, or store in an air-tight container for up to three days.

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Check out the Epigram website for more of Phoebe’s suggestions

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400g tin of chickpeas, drained 1/2 tsp smoked paprika 1/2 tsp dried oregano Pinch of chilli flakes Drizzle of olive oil Salt and pepper

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A great snack to munch on when you’re getting hungry for dinner at 4pm! You could also replace the paprika, oregano, chilli and pepper with 1tsp of cinnamon and 4tbsp of maple syrup for a sweet fix!

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Smoky roasted chickpeas

I like to think most students will be having some version of a Christmas dinner as a flat before the end of term and I truly hope all the tin foil, oven trays and dirty plates are worth it.

I recently read an article about a new foodie trend, the savoury sister of a gingerbread house, the charcuterie chalet (i.e. an elaborate cheeseboard). If you don’t want the hassle of roasting a bird and a l l the trimmings, or if you want all that and more, I recommend splashing out by creating your own cheeseboard. It is way less prep and clean up than a full-on meal, so you can do multiple cheeseboard nights or have some nice snacks for whenever. Christmas means you can completely overindulge and not feel guilty about it after because…it’s Christmas. So, choose your most handsome chopping board and load it up!

For the cheeses, try to get a range of hard and soft varities. One of my favourites is Ossau-Iraty, if you want to try something new. You don’t have to get the really expensive ones – I actually love the cheapest cream cheese on the side, but whatever suits your budget!

You’re going to need some kind of crunch for the cheeses to go on – crackers are usually cheap so maybe get a selection, or even just toast some nice bread.

If you want to add charcuterie meats, there are good selections in most supermarkets, or go really fancy and try one of the delis in Clifton or on Whiteladies Road. Keep it veggie if you like, or even try some vegan deli meats!

Something sweet on the side goes great too: grapes, fruit, chutney, honey, even cranberry sauce for some extra Christmas feels! There’s a lot of scope here, so just buy what you like!

Epigram / Tim Quiney

Spilling the tea: Tim’s tasty tips

Detecting diet culture

food​

April Whitworth explores the concept of comfort eating

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oogle defines comfort eating as ‘eating to make oneself feel happier, rather than to satisfy hunger’. This is a completely natural behaviour – even though diet culture tells us otherwise. In fact, eating food you enjoy, without guilt, is a sign of a positive relationship with food, not the other way round!

What actually is ‘diet culture’?

Instagram / Brenna O’Malley, RD

Diet culture is deeply ingrained in Western society. It values weight and shape over wellbeing, equating thinness to health and penetrating into virtually every area of our life, particularly online.

Diet culture is defined by a plethora of toxic beliefs around food, body image and exercise. There is often shame around food: what we eat, how much, and even what time we eat it.

Eating Intuitively

Food Guilt Morality becomes assigned to food Diet culture assigns food moral value. Foods become split into a binary of ‘good’ or ‘bad’. When you think about it this way it seems utterly ridiculous, but the language we use to speak about food is now so normalised. This dichotomy is reinforced with other phrases such as ‘cheat days’ and ‘naughty’ versus ‘guilt-free’ and ‘detox’.

Not only do we talk about foods like this, we then reflect upon ourselves: ‘Gosh I’m so bad, I just ate three chocolate cookies’. We need to stop this! All food contains calories (there’s no such thing as good and bad ones) and we need calories to function. Inevitably, this language leads us to feel guilty about consuming certain types of food.

In order to eliminate feelings of guilt and regret around food, we must train ourselves to spot diet culture and stop it protruding into our daily life. In replacement, we should practice body acceptance through intuitive eating.

Starting listening to the needs of your body, not what society tells you to eat.

It is important to not restrict yourself: if you are having cravings for a certain type of food, it is probably because your body needs it! If you forbid yourself to have a certain food, it may lead to bingeing of said food and result in even more guilt.

Remember – you are beautiful because you are you and no one else.

This guilt surrounding food can be felt all year round, but it is especially prevalent around Christmas time. This is coupled with society telling us in January we should ‘detox’ and lose the ‘Christmas weight’. If you stop seeing food as ‘good’ and ‘bad’, this will allow you to truly enjoy what you are eating. Food isn’t just to fuel us: it is culture; it connects us with others, especially with loved ones at Christmas time.

Even if you ignore the seasonality, guilt is exacerbated during a pandemic. Social media is full of influencers pressuring you to do 38574 HIIT workouts a week and using lockdown to get fit. Remember – a pandemic is stressful! Every other part of your life has changed and it is completely normal if your eating habits alter too. But, regardless of a pandemic or festivities, you should give yourself unconditional permission to eat, no matter what else is going on in your life.

The key is to control what you see: I have always struggled with body image, but this especially came to light during lockdown. I realised that every time I went on my phone, I became increasingly self-critical of my body and diet. By unfollowing photoshopped ‘fitspo’ accounts which guilt-trip and feed off insecurities, I made space for refreshing, body-positive, anti-diet culture accounts; my feed has never looked better! These are just a few of my favourites: @alexlight_ldn, @lucymountain, @_ nelly_london, @bopopeaches, @julesvonhep, @thewellful (thewellful.com) and @mikzazon.

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Editor ROSIE ANGEL-CLARK Digital Editor EVE COLEMAN Deputy Editor ELENA VENTURELLI

Can solitude really be sweet?

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Ciara Allen offers her advice on learning to love your alone time

s Ferris Bueller probably put it best, ‘life moves pretty fast – if you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.’ Nowadays, there is a lot of pressure put on us to be social butterflies, keeping ourselves and our days busy.

Spending time alone is almost looked down on, and feelings of shame or FOMO can creep in.

The coronavirus lockdowns have meant that we are spending more time alone than ever and we have been reintroduced to our most important relationship: with ourselves. Taking a step back and starting to enjoy being in your own company is more important now than ever as a crucial act of self-love and self-acceptance.

What makes you happy?

Being alone is the perfect time to explore what makes you happy, as it is a time dedicated entirely to yourself and free from external pressures or opinions that may influence you and your actions. ‘Guilty pleasures’ do not exist; if it makes you truly happy doing it, that is what is most important.

Rediscover old hobbies – read that book that you have been meaning to for months!

Alternatively, why not learn something new? Listen to a podcast on a topic you know nothing about, start learning a language or learn to cook. Find solace in old hobbies, but you never know what else is out there.

Journaling

As well as improving physical wellbeing, exercise is incredibly important for maintaining our mental health – taking us out of the thinking mind and grounding us in the present. Daily walks are massively beneficial in helping to centre yourself and slow down the pace of your mind – allowing time for selfreflection. You can accompany your walk with music or an audiobook, or simply let your mind wander.

Self-care

We must not feel pressured to be productive during this time alone! Pandemics are exhausting and emotionally draining, and the pressure to learn new skills and emerge from lockdown as a ‘new and improved’ version of yourself can be damaging.

Remember to take time for yourself; this could be as simple as a face mask with a cup of tea and your favourite book. Or it could be having a shower, getting out of the pyjamas you’ve worn for two days and making a home-cooked meal. Being alone gets rid of external pressures dictating how your life should look, and lets you look inwards at what makes you happy (after all, the only opinion that matters is your own).

Self-care during the pandemic is about more than creating a healthy relationship with yourself; it’s about caring for your emotional and physical wellbeing in a time of incredible stress.

Epigram / Rosie Angel-Clark

Potentially the most introspective of hobbies, lockdown is the perfect time to start a journal. Write down anything and everything – don’t worry about how good the content is as, after all, who is going to read it but you? Your journal is entirely personal; the subject matter is whatever you decide and, therefore, it is the perfect tool to take a deep dive into your mind and spend time exploring yourself. It’s a time dedicated exclusively to self-reflection, helping you to become in tune with yourself and strengthening your sense of self-identity.

Don’t censor yourself, start writing and see what you find!

Exercise

14

Peaceful warriors wellbeing​ Emma Hanson sums up a recent wellbeing webinar

The Yoga Asana Sequence ‘Asana’ is a Sanskrit word which translates to mean ‘posture’ or ‘pose’. While it sounds a bit daunting, even simple poses can bring us numerous physical and mental benefits. They only require 10 or 15 minutes, and are best done right after waking up. Hold each of your poses for five seconds, with a five second break between each move. Jonny said they must be done with a ‘pleasant steadiness’; it is human nature – particularly student nature – to rush through to the end, but paying attention to the details and sitting in the moment gives us the full benefits.

Yoga for Physical and Mental Wellbeing Yoga is a way to come out of your mind. As students, a quick routine to relax and de-stress is always welcome, but during an especially turbulent time this is even more vital to our wellbeing. Jonny says that ‘yoga asanas can be as good as, or better, than a short walk,’ as they improve flexibility and blood flow. During lockdown, it is vital to give your mind and body a break, and to find ways to stay healthy and happy at home.

Stay tuned for more information on the benefits of transcendental meditation!

Epigram / Rosie Angel-Clark

Epigram / Eve Coleman

The Transformative Power of Yoga Jonny discussed how yoga practices have transformed his life: ‘The 18 yoga asanas that I was taught by my transcendental meditation teachers have benefitted me in so many ways. I have a go-to set of exercises that instantly leave me feeling revitalised. I don't rely on anyone to help me do them and I don't have to go anywhere! I lay down my blanket on some floor-space and 15 minutes later I am restored or ready for a nap.

I do yoga exercises every morning and occasionally in the late afternoon and my health has hugely benefited. Here are some of the noticeable benefits: ‘I am flexible again – more than when I was at university! I rarely get ill, and my mood is much more consistent than it used to be. My concentration is better. My daily meditations are deeper.

‘I use the sequence if I wake too early at night and also to help me get ready for sleep after a performance or late night.

My digestion is better.

I am well-toned and stronger.

‘The asanas are usually taught in conjunction with transcendental meditation, a simple ancient meditation technique. If you can do both daily, as I have for nine years now, health problems gradually disappear completely and the body actually starts to get younger. Sounds unbelievable, I know. I get mistaken for being in my

mid-twenties but I turn 40 next year! I would say this was the other way round when I was at university and a post-grad.

There are hundreds of scientific papers showing how practising transcendental meditation improves brain coherence and many other aspects of the human body. These yoga asanas are designed to be done as a one-two with the meditation happening straight after the yoga. However, the yoga sequence can be done as a stand-alone set of exercises.’

Epigram / Eve Coleman

T

he second week of Transcendental Meditation Society’s webinar series ‘360 Degree Wellbeing for Bristol and Bath Students’ focused on the importance of yoga for a healthy and balanced life. Jonny Velon, a Bristol artist and musician with a passion for meditation and yoga, led this part of the wellbeing series.

Housing drama?

It’s that dreaded time of year. Dare I even mention it – housing. We all have to do it. I may as well say it straight out: housing brings out the worst in people.

Friends you thought you knew drop you and plans fall apart at the last minute.

Or maybe you’re one of the lucky ones, you’ve got a lovely group and you find the perfect house. Whilst that’s great for you, that’s not what the majority experience.

I can imagine that, especially if you’re in your first year and you haven’t really gelled with your flatmates, you might be feeling super stressed right now. If you don’t end up living with your best mates then you might worry that you’ll grow apart from them.

But try turning this around. Now you won’t get into pointless arguments about the washing up, and instead of sitting at home and passively watching telly together, you’re forced to actually go out to see them and do something fun!

And don’t even get me started on the ‘rush’, a.k.a. the fear that if you don’t have your house sorted by Christmas, you’ll be living in a tent on the Downs.

That’s absolutely not true. Some people leave it as late as summer and are absolutely fine.

Sometimes waiting can even be an advantage. You have more time to get to know people and your favourite parts of the city!

It can be tricky to find the right house.

Each housemate comes along with their own distinct criteria, making things nearly impossible. You may as well learn now that there is no ‘right’ house. Student houses are student houses: a bit grimy, but at the end of the day do the job. Housing really can seem like the be all and end all of your university experience, and though it’s easy for me to say this – I promise it’s not. You’ll have a roof over your head, no matter what.

Caitlin Palmer O’Shaughnessy Wellbeing Columnist

15

Life abroad in lockdown Sophie Shanahan discusses the difficulties of studying abroad in a pandemic

Ep

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of autumn.

We’v e spent the last few weeks playing music, cooking and drinking three-Euro supermare i p ket wine.

This has partly o /S m made up for the hours of a r g Epi sitting in my room, watching a 60-year-old German lecturer coming to terms with Zoom.

Luckily, my strange array of modules have sustained my attention – highlights include ‘the use of slang in German youth culture’ and ‘Swedish for Beginners’ – but I am looking forward to some respite during the Christmas holidays.

This feeds into what has been a real anxiety for many students on years abroad – the uncertainty around when or whether we will be able to go home, and if anyone can come and visit us.

When you imagine your year abroad, you envision your friends visiting and introducing them to the city and the people you’ve met.

Equally, you imagine going home at Christmas and having some well needed rest after your ig ra first few months away. m / This year, not only is it unlikely that anyone will be able to visit, but there is also a question mark around whether we will be able to travel home for the

holidays.

I have tentatively booked my trains back to the UK, but in the knowledge that the borders could close beforehand, I have accepted that the winter break will not be the same as usual – nonetheless, the idea of being trapped here without my family is still pretty hard to swallow. While it’s likely there would be other international students marooned here, I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling the need to return to familiarity.

Not only are we having to process new experiences every day, function in a foreign language and adjust to the culture, but we’re also facing a reality in which we might not be able to return to any sense of comfort or normality, which is particularly stressful at a time so focused on family and togetherness.

My year abroad has been drenched in doubt. Even before the pandemic hit, we were faced with the idea that the UK leaving the European Union could place our hi study and work placeo /S ments in jeopardy. m a Epigr The fact that this process has been so unstable has meant that we are fairly well prepared for the inevitable hurdles this year is throwing at us.

That doesn’t mean that the anxiety isn’t present (let me assure you it is), but this year has forced us to live more comfortably in the in-between.

You’re told this should be the best year of your life, full of giddy excitement and new experiences, and it’s difficult to recontextualise that to fit inside stuffy dorm rooms.

However, when the future is full of uncertainty, you realise the virtues of living in the present, and you are more willing to expand what you see as a valuable experience. p

communal space.

We’ve got creative with our time as we can’t rely on the pubs and cafés we (perhaps over-) frequented at the start

h

W

hen I arrived in Germany, my mission to visit a new city e v e r y weekend and spend my Erasmus grant on suspiciously cheap beer was promptly halted by the imposition of a nationwide ‘lockdown lite’ – though I did manage to sample a few Lüttje Lages (a horrendous mix of beer and schnapps that you drink from two glasses and inevitably spill down your face) beforehand.

I was lucky to escape the chaos of the UK early and I’d already been in Germany for a couple of months when lockdown began.

This meant I’d got a lot of the ‘just go for it, it’s Erasmus’ energy out of my system before the restrictions hit.

One of the reasons I’m surviving lockdown is that I formed some strong relationships with other students during our months of freedom.

I sympathise with students who started their years abroad later than I did, and were plunged into lockdown on arrival – though I’m sure their livers will thank them for avoiding the Lüttje Lages.

The ‘lite’ element means that we can still visit people in groups of two households, as long as there are no more than ten people. This not only means people can see family, but it’s also been immensely beneficial to everyone’s mental health – not least students living in tiny dorm r o o m s with little

wellbeing​ Epigram /

A g gi e T ait

Experi-menstruation Pip Sears, secretary of Period Soc, shares her tips on coping with difficult periods

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e at Period Society are very much for celebrating all things menstrual, but we all have to admit that sometimes having periods can suck!

We’ve all had those days when dealing with horrible cramps, bloating, mood swings and the plain discomfort of wearing period products becomes a bit too much and we end

Painkillers

I know that this one is completely obvious and you’ll all have used painkillers if you’ve had cramps on your period, but it’s worth just mentioning them in a little more detail, as we are often not directed to ones that will actually help our menstrual cramps. Studies have shown that ibuprofen, or drugs that use ibuprofen as their active ingredient, are more effective at reducing period pain than paracetamol. There are also stronger drugs that your doctor can prescribe if your cramps are severe, so don’t suffer in silence, see your GP – you shouldn’t have to live your life in pain.

up cursing our uteruses for doing this to us. On those days when your period is being difficult, self-care becomes vital in order to help keep you comfortable and able to get on with your life.

For this reason, we at Period Soc have compiled a list of some period self-care tips that you can try to help you manage your menstrual cycle.

Heat

Another obvious one that I’m sure most of you have tried, but again is worth mentioning just because it can really help relieve period pain.

A bath, shower or hot water bottles are great for reducing muscle cramps and relaxing, so should never be underestimated as a period self-care tip.

Stress management

Exercising

Exercising is often the last thing you want to be doing when your period is being difficult, but it can be really useful to help you feel comfortable. Listen to your body and do the exercises that feel good: whether it’s something lighter like yoga because you’re feeling tired, or something high intensity if you’re feeling energetic. Sometimes you may even have more energy at the start of your period than normal due to the drop in your oestrogen and progesterone levels! Exercise is great for reducing cramps, bloating and boosting endorphins, so give it a go!

gi eT ai t

Eating right

m ra ig p E

/

I know how much your period makes you crave comforting carbs and sugary snacks, but try to resist, as they will only cause your energy levels to crash (which won’t help mood swings) and increase your bloating. Instead, try to keep your diet high in protein and healthy fats to stabilise your blood sugar levels and decrease inflammation, and high in fibre to maintain good digestion and reduce bloating. Also, don’t forget to drink plenty of water!

I get that, as a student, managing your stress can be tough and is something we’re all still learning to do; however, high levels of stress can make periods worse.

Try to learn some techniques or tricks to lower your stress: that can be something like meditation or yoga, or it can be as simple as watching your favourite movie and talking to your friends. Whatever works for you, give yourself a break and de-stress because you’re a superstar who is doing everything everyone else is doing whilst bleeding! You deserve some time to relax!

Ag

Embracing your period

This one can be tough, but it really is the ultimate act of self-care. The process your body is going through is amazing. You are shedding the lining of your uterus that your body has built up in preparation for pregnancy and you do this every single month.

This is an incredible feat of biology and just another reminder that your body is awesome. Embrace your period as something to be celebrated; let the world know just how wonderful your body is and what a total rock star you are for doing everything you do despite the social stigma and discomfort that surrounds periods. This is the best self-care tip I can offer. Bleed proudly, because you are bloody amazing!

17

Editor DAISY GAME Digital Editor MIA MUSA-GREEN Deputy Editor REBECCA PARDON

The Travel Team pick some of their favourite Christmas-destination flicks

Movie magic

Illustrations: Epigram / Daisy Game

1

Daisy

Little Women (2019): Massachusetts, USA

‘Good morning world,’ yawns a bed-headed, sleep-tousled Josephine March – and what a wonderful world it is. Set in the rolling hills of New England, Louisa May Alcott’s 1868 novel Little Women boasts some true winter-wonderland potential. Frozen lakes and ice skate loops; pine-and-bauble wreaths, brass candlesticks and open-hearth fires; laced-leather boots and Tam-O-Shanter hats – it’s the ultimate in cosy Christmas cheer. Not to mention that festive breakfast: after a morning of philanthropic deeds (the March family donate their breakfast to a nearby family in need), the sisters return to find their kitchen table piled high with sweet treats; pink ice cream, cake and pastries galore, courtesy of their next-door neighbour.

I’ve been desperate to roam the frosty slopes and kitchen tables of Alcott’s imagination since I was small. With the world in its current topsy-turvy state, my dream of a New England Christmas will have to wait another year; but this December, I’ll be tying ice skate laces with Jo and Teddy, nestling beside the fire with Beth and Meg, and gasping at the cakes with Amy.

3

The Holiday (2006): Surrey, UK

Mia

18

After a year of unprecedented news and ways of living, what could be more in keeping with 2020’s energy than the fantastical yet comforting The Polar Express (2004)? Lying awake at night on Christmas Eve, a boy hopes to hear Santa’s sleigh, but has begun to feel doubtful about whether Santa Claus will come after all. Suddenly, a thunderous roaring announces the arrival of a train (in the middle of the street!) Curious, he goes to look at it – where is it going? ‘To the North Pole, of course, this is the Polar Express!’ What follows is a magical trip full of friendship, faith and Christmas spirit. Grab your scarf, hat and gloves, and watch this film for an unprecedented trip to a place full of happiness, love and generosity.

Sanjana

2

When Harry Met Sally (1989): New York City, USA This charming rom-com makes you yearn to stride the streets of a wintery 80s New York in an oversized blazer, possibly with a spellbound man at your heels. More than a cutesy chick-flick, When Harry Met Sally (1989) is a profoundly philosophical exploration of intersexual relationships and orgasm-faking, coupled with some powerful shoulder pad moments, meaning you can feel a little intellectual while enjoying your Netflix-andice-cream evening in. With a chemistry between the two fated lovers your Briscrush could only dream of, this film is perfect for an evening spent fantasising bumping into a crush in bookstores, Christmassy New York, and a time when we can wear cute winter outfits without face masks again.

4

Rebecca

Epigram

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Situated only a stone’s throw away from London, The Holiday (2006) manages to capture the picturesque nature of Shene, Surrey. With a mismatched stone exterior, a delicate layer of snow over the rooftop and a warm orange glow from the windows, Iris’ cottage is the quintessential rural English home. Nothing is more festive than a cosy, hygge-style country break, and Rosehill Cottage fits the bill perfectly. Contrasting with Amanda's modernly-styled California mansion, Iris’ home consists of small trinkets and delftware decor; embracing maximalism to the fullest. The wooden accents and open fire all help in making this location as homely as possible. This location not only serves as a retreat for Amanda, but also helps the audience feel ready for the Christmas festivities!

The Polar Express (2004): The North Pole

I

grew up with the type of parents who start to panic six hours before the flight. As a result, I have become an expert in guessing how much time I need to go through security! We were a family that travelled a lot, so over the years, I have developed a routine I always follow before arriving at, and while I’m navigating, the airport.

Check I have everything essential

An extra tip is to always remember to double check your carry-on for anything that cannot go on the plane. Any perfumes or mouthwash in a carry-on will only go to waste. Due to COVID-19, a few extra masks, hand sanitiser and wipes are a must!

It doesn’t matter if it’s a short or long flight: I always make sure I have some food and drink that I know I’ll enjoy!

You never know what will be served on the plane (...), and it’s not healthy to go so long without eating or drinking anything.

I always try to arrive two hours before my boarding time starts

That way, I know that I will have time to roam around calmly and enjoy a browse of all that duty free has to offer. I also make the most of the free wifi to download a few episodes of something or a movie for the flight, or look around the shops for a good book.

etiquette

A few last minute socials – then time to zone out!

When I am finally on the plane, I usually look at social media one last time, and then listen to some music until the plane has taken-off.

Catching up on missed kip

Get a coffee and snack for the flight

Depending on how long the trip is and what time I am landing, I might get some sleep.

Tip: always check the time you are arriving to avoid jet-lag so you can work out when the best time to grab that all-important nap might be.

Theano’s Travel Must-Have’s • • • • • • •

Wallet Phone with portable charger Laptop Gum Passport Hoodie (because the plane is always freezing!)

Wireless earphones

Mia Musa-Green

Theano shares the steps she takes to prepare for take off

Why put yourself in the position where you have to rush at the last minute because you realised your phone charger isn’t working? What if you need to buy a new coat because of cold weather? I always give myself an extra day to take care of any last-minute details.

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Airport

travel​

I always have my suitcase ready two days before the trip

Recreating the Île Saint-Louis

Travel Columnist, Xander Brett, brings the Paris magic to life back in England

I

t’s now been over a week since I left France for Christmas. With my family and dogs, it’s nice to be back home, but I can’t help feeling the slight absence of Paris. I’ve handed over cooking responsibility, uninspired by the dull ingredients of ‘Hello Fresh,’ and as each Sunday rolls by, I think of the steak under my window, cooked for me each week by a chef who knew just how I like it. It seems my premature departure came at both the right and wrong time. I’d just got to know everybody and to make friends with the shopkeepers and neighbours. I reached the top of the mountain, so to speak, and became a temporary resident. At the same time, I never had time to enjoy that life properly. I wonder if the Tabac owner still expects me to return...

We Brits are fortunate. We can pick so many delights from our travels straight from our own supermarket shelves. Into the trolley goes Aperol from Italy, saucisson from France and a good ham from Spain. Europe is at our fingertips. Perhaps I should use that to my advantage.

It’s time to recreate the Île Saint-Louis in Castle Camps.

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The Wanderlust gene

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Helena Reed chats us through the psychology of travel

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Epigram / H

ele na Re ed

he COVID-19 pandemic has put all of our lives on hold, and even when things started to get back to some sort of normality, our travel plans were still in limbo. It was almost like someone had pressed one big pause button on all of our plans and forgotten to switch it back on. During this time when we can’t travel, I have been yearning to plan a trip away even more than usual. In fact, it’s got me thinking…why do humans love to travel so much? Why do we feel so much happier after a holiday? Are we hardwired to feel this way?

We all have our preferences as to the type and length of the travels we embark on. Personally, I love beach holidays and wouldn’t want to travel for any longer than a month, but my housemate’s ideal trip away would be six months skiing in the Alps. Your preference may change a little as you age, but it’s pretty much hard-wired within us. However, if the urge to explore arises in us innately, perhaps there is something in our genome that predisposes us to this?

Well, if you’re a bit of a nomad, you could have a certain mutation of your dopamine receptor (DRD4), known as ‘the

20

Epigram / Daisy Game

Wanderlust gene.’

Ok, that sounds cool, but what does this all mean?

Dopamine is a chemical messenger in our brain which plays a huge role in how we feel pleasure and reward. The dopamine 4 receptor (the thing the chemical interacts with) is associated with risk-taking and the desire for a novel experience.

Several human studies have been carried out and found that people with the DRD4 mutation are more likely to explore new places and embrace adventure. Interestingly, this mutation has also been linked to human migration. A study in 2011 found that the DRD4 mutation was found significantly in populations whose ancestors migrated longer distances. However, we can’t extrapolate too much from this information.

You can’t reduce the complexities of human exploration down to a single gene – genetics, unfortunately, aren’t that simple!

Let’s dial back the neuroscience a bit and look more at the psychological benefits of travelling. Why do we come back from travel feeling so content? Some might call it a ‘post-travel glow.’ Well, it’s because travel provides us with a break from the daily stressors of life. It’s literally an escape from our mundane reality and allows us to focus on our own pleasures for a while, thereby reducing the body’s level of stress hormone (cortisol). Even when we return home to our stressful lives, the new memories encoded in our brains from travelling help to maintain a calmer mindset – the post-travel ‘zen!’ This is the reason that so many mindfulness guides will ask you to imagine yourself on a beach whilst meditating.

All in all, travel is great for our mental health. It helps with personal growth, appreciation of others, and boosts our mood and creativity. All of these things release more dopamine in our brain, which gives us an increased sensation of reward. Experiencing different cultures and meeting new people forces us to be more tolerant and flexible, thereby also increasing our empathy towards others. This will translate back to our daily lives, helping our interpersonal skills. There are so many psychological benefits to travel, so if this isn’t a sign to start planning the post-lockdown holiday, then I don’t know what is!

A story in a sip

travel​

Robin Connolly’s favourite travel memories…told through several cups of coffee!

Tiller + Grain, Dublin, IE

There are some friendships that just do revolve around your drinking habits. This one in particular does not necessarily require anything stronger than a black americano brewed in a bright-blue moka pot on a Wednesday afternoon. It is a friendship that orbits around sofa-snuggling, storytelling and very many cups of something warm and comforting. In January last year, we decided to take our friendship to the next level and straight out of January exam halls, we hopped on a plane ram / Robin C g i p E onn from Bristol Airport and oll found y ourselves (cue the music) on Grafton Street, right outside of...I exaggerate, we actually found ourselves at 23 Frederick St., Dublin, in a very funky coffee shop called Tiller + Grain. Weary from a morning of wandering a city with a strange new geography, we were very grateful to bump into this little yellow-fronted café, celebrating its first birthday. I can’t remember exactly what the coffee was like, nor what we spoke about. However, I remember in that moment, with the soles of my feet burning and my nose feeling very chilly, the enormous feeling of love I had for the gorgeously Irish-accented barista that brought over our drinks.

The small but mighty espresso, Rome, IT

There’s a scene in Eat, Pray, Love (2010), where Julia Roberts waves her arms around at a coffee bar in Rome, trying to get noticed in a sea of suit-clad business people on their way to work. I have always imagined myself in that moment and have romanticised about grabbing an espresso on my way to work in a sexy Italian-cut blazer. My Rome espresso experience was not as exciting, nor glamourous, but it was (in my head, at least) just as smooth, hot and strong as Julia’s. The first one I ever had was in a café near Piazza Navona. Having heard of Italian coffee-snobbery, I was paralytically fearful that I would order the wrong thing and have to witness the judgemental glare of an Italian waiter, which, of course, proved to be irrational, as the waiter couldn’t give a toss what was on my drinks order.

Surrounded by a bunch of girlfriends from school, we giggled while we dran k , people-watched and basked in that sense of freedom only school-trippers can re late to. It was no Eat, Pray, Love moment, but it was rather glorious while it lasted.

Dolce far niente! ram / Robin Conn olly Epig

I

t is a well-known fact that when you come to university, at some point during your degree, you will ask the question (probably to your housemate at 3am the morning of a deadline): ‘Do I have an addiction to caffeine?’ Looking back on my baggy-eyed, sleep-deprived, second year self, I think the only appropriate response was probably a simple ‘yes.’

However, while an unhealthy relationship with grimy bean juice has most certainly defined some of my bin Connolly less desirable aca/ Ro m a igr demic moments, Ep some of my favourite travel memories also lie in the bottom of a large cup of café noir.

A ‘home brew’, Paxos, GR

Some experiments are simply that – experimental. They go wrong, we fail and we learn that the good old cafetière will be the only way forward for us in the future. While Greek island-hopping, one of my favourite fellow travellers and I became increasingly intrigued by the concept of a ‘Greek Coffee.’ We saw its description on menus, we watched people order it and in all the places we stayed, we found a confusing little pot-type contraption (excuse our lack of education up until this point), that we had no idea how to use. One morning, we bit the bullet and decided to try our hand at this new type of brewing method. We bought the beans, readied the pot and (like I said, we apologise) YouTubed a tutorial on what to do next. Now, my mother told me that a ‘bad workman always blames his tools,’ so in this vein I will take total responsibility for the disaster that occurred. The liquid that we produced was possibly more potent than rocket fuel and its viscosity was most certainly also similar. The black sludge that dribbled into our cups was drinkable, although not palatable – I’m pretty sure the Greeks would have been ashamed of us. It was an event not to be repeated and following on from it, we took to ordering iced cappuccinos from professional baristas instead. However, it will always remain a fond memory, two little English students and an abject failure in common sense.

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Sticker, £1.90 | Etsy

Mask, £5 | Go od For You

Book, £9.99 | Urban Outfitters

This year’s most practical gift: ditch the single-use masks and get some pretty (and more environmentally friendly) ones instead – we’re bound to be wearing them for at least a while longer...

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Books that only get read once and then sit on the table looking pretty forevermore are the best kind of books for gifting, especially if they let everyone know you have great taste in music.

Get a few different stickers and make your own little sticker pack to give to a friend – because friends don’t let friends have naked laptops.

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The older I get, the more grateful I am to receive socks in my stocking, even if they do mysteriously vanish into the ether a few months later. Maybe if they were as cute as these, I’d take better

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£5 |

Sophie Hutchison's 10 stocking filler must-haves ks, S oc

You’re not really a Bristol student unless you have a tote bag. Sorry, I don’t make the rules.

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Balm Dotcom is the holy grail of lip balms – use it on your lips, use it on your hands, use it on your elbows; use it everywhere.

hn £10 | Jo , s e mb

Magda Archer’s designs have been emblazoned across the chests of numerous A-listers, including our lord and saviour, Harry Styles. Whilst one of the jumpers from the collection will set you back £500, fortunately Archer also prints her designs on magnets.

Secret santa, sorted

lifestyle

Freya Scott-Turner helps you boss your flat secret santa THE DJ: NOW THAT'S WHAT I CALL MUSIC CD

Let’s face it, there’s no point trying to please this highly cultured person. God forbid they’re seen listening to anyone you’ve actually heard of. This ironic little gift screams ‘Haha, I’ve played you at your own game!

And I’ve won!’ While they’ll never admit it – not even to themselves – somewhere deep in their subconscious is a tiny Harry Styles fan jumping up and down to ‘Watermelon Sugar’, waiting to be unleashed.

THE GHOST: UBER EATS VOUCHERS

Everyone likes food.

And while you’re not even 100% sure that this flatmate actually eats – they may well be photosynthesising in there – the takeaway boxes that you’ve spied them hauling out to the communal bin once a month under the cover of darkness suggest this may well be the perfect gift.

THE ONE FROM LONDON: ENGLISH COUNTIES SCRATCH MAP

0| 1.5 r, £ cr u bb e Wa sh ing -up s

THE SLOB: DISHMATIC WASHING-UP SCRUBBER

Forget the scores of items heralded as the best thing since sliced bread, these little soap-filled miracles are the real deal. I’m gluten-free, so I’d actually say they’re better. Watch your flat’s answer to the Big Lebowski transform from “Dude” into a washing-up junkie before your very eyes. Goodbye festering plate-piles of misery!

THE ONE YOU DON'T LIKE: CHEAP CHOCOLATE

Ah, high street chocolate. So cheap, so beautifully impersonal. For a third of the price of a meal deal, you can convey to your least favourite person that you spent exactly four and a half seconds and the efforts of two brain cells choosing their gift. On the off-chance that they don’t like Zingy Orange, a famously divisive flavour, you’ve just added salt to the wound.

Mwahah.

Matchmakers, £1 | Wilko

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Who’s to say a gift can’t double up as an educational tool? Watch your metropolitan mate’s eyes widen in wonder as they discover the secret corners of this quaint little island.

Since they look on Northerners as one would a species of exotic bird, they’ll likely glean much from discovering the existence of places like Cumbria or the East Riding of Yorkshire.

Scratch Map, £13.95 | Amazon

NOW 106 CD, £10 | Argos

23

Secrets of the cosmos

The Croft’s resident clairvoyant Rosie Angel-Clark explains what the stars have in store for you this month Sag

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-2 Career is a big focus for you this 2 O month. You may find yourself chatting to someone who becomes a useful contact. Your love life focuses on communication – maybe you’re messaging someone new, or finding new ways to stay in touch over the holidays. Venus encourages you to pick up the phone, and once you’ve done that, the rest flows naturally!

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Early in the month, relationships are easy and conversation-based – a lot of messages and phone calls are your focus. From the 15th, love is comfortable but tinged with excitement, so expect the unexpected! Mercury draws out your discipline from the 20th – days off will focus your mind when it’s time to study.

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For the first half of the Ju month, Venus dares you to seize a few more risks in relationships than you’re naturally inclined to take. Yours is the final full moon of the year (30th)! Look back to the year’s first Cancer full moon and recognise how far you’ve come. Enjoy the warm feelings of security this moon brings, and you’ll start the new year calm.

Venus dances into your house of partnerships on the 15th, making the second half of the month perfect for balanced relationships. The emphasis is on fun and shared ethics – it’s not the time to date someone outside of your political mindset! Group projects will go smoothly thanks to your ruling planet Mercury’s slide into Sagittarius.

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18 Fe A wild year comes to its end with the Great Conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn on the 21st. Some say it’s the start of a new era, and who better to lead the revolution than you? Be ready for a shake-up – you’ll find the energy to make necessary changes happen. Saturn calls you to release anything holding you back.

20 A pr il 2 You may find 0 yourself craving company as winter creeps in. Venus pulls you towards relationships; after the 15th someone is keen to treat you with extravagance. Future idealism sets in from the 17th, with Saturn encouraging you to expand your network – try that virtual careers fair and you might be unexpectedly inspired.

23 Ju ly -2 2A Excitement rules your relationships this month. If you’ve been on the fence about putting yourself out there, Venus is pushing you to go for it!

Fun and romance come naturally and the planets are putting you right in the spotlight. From the 20th, you’re inspired to switch up the way you study – it’s time for a refresh.

23 Octob er 21 N Venus’ intensity wears off after the 15th, and any weight around relationships lifts, leaving a sense of adventure. A team of planets warm up your house of generosity – if you’re stuck for the perfect present for your flat’s secret santa, you’re hit with inspiration. Your intellectual powers skyrocket from the 20th.

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ary Wistful conversations with friends about future plans, likely focused around travel, are a great source of optimism at the start of the month. The full moon on the 30th encourages you to take a risk with your love life. Maybe you’ll decide to send a slightly risky new year’s message to the person who’s been on your mind all year!

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22 December

9 Early in the month you’re feeling reclusive. You may feel like you’ve reached the end of a cycle with something that no longer works for you – with several planets assembled in your house of completion, now is the right time to let go! As the Sun moves into your sign on the 21st, a fresh drive propels you onwards.

21 Ma rch The solar eclipse on the 14th 1 fires up your beliefs. Don’t be surprised if you’re suddenly interested in a social issue you’d never noticed before! Your social life is on the up as Jupiter graces your house of friendships.

Make the most of the possibilities wherever you’re spending the festive period.

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22 Novem ber As Mercury goes direct in your sign, communication has never been easier! Schedule conversations you’ve been meaning to have for after the 13th. You may hit some indecision in your studies, but talking to a coursemate or tutor about it might help.

It’s a good time for you to meet someone in an unusual way.