Quench Magazine, Issue 197 - February 2024

CWTCH Issue, no. 197, FEBRUARY 2024

Meet The Editors about the pinnacle of love being dancing with loved ones, which I used to find a bit old-fashioned and now find one of the most heartwarming acts that people can share. I love nothing more than having a little boogey in the pub with my mates or slow-dancing in the kitchen with my family, as it’s like our bodies are so charged and empowered with emotion that the only way we can articulate ourselves is through silly little dances.

Issue 197 is about just that - love. This theme of ‘CWTCH’, also spelt as ‘cwtch’ and sounding like ‘cu—ch’, is a Welsh term that refers to embracing a loved one. This might seem seasonal with Valentine’s Day and St Dwynwen’s Day being in February, but this issue is about much more than the box of heart-shaped chocolates you buy your situationship from the corner shop. It’s all about showing appreciation to those around you, however you can.

Sometimes it can seem quite uncomfortable to be so vulnerable with our feelings, but it takes courage to say how we feel and the tiniest act of kindness can transform someone’s day.

I am a hopeless romantic and an inescapable cynic. I love nothing more than writing personal letters to my family and friends about how much I appreciate them, but I would never be caught giving them a hug. Seeing a couple be too affectionate in public? I may very likely be sick, despite also being the girl who cries in art galleries and bakes my friends Valentine’s pastries. No matter how grumpy someone might seem, everyone shows love and empathy in different ways. It may not be as dramatic as a gesture of holding a speaker outside someone’s window, but it could be checking up on loved ones and always offering a helping hand. Neil Young used to sing soulful melodies

I hope reading this issue makes you feel compelled to share this sentiment with someone in your life, whether that be your parents, partner, mate, sibling, pet or even a neighbour - there really is no limit to the number of people you can share a cwtsch with, and this issue perfectly reflects that. Each contributor, editor, designer, manager and photographer has represented what cwtsch feels like to them uniquely and beautifully (no pun intended, but I do hope you love it as much as I do). There’s a bold, powerful display of cwtsch that has inspired all of the work in this issue, so go out there and celebrate the theme! The world truly is a lovelier place when you share the love around <3

Alanya

Billy Hello and welcome to our ‘cwtch’ issue. I cannot be the only person feeling in need of one after our latest exam period.

What makes the term so particularly endearing as the topic of this edition of Quench is that the comparison to English words, like cuddle or hug, isn’t conclusive, with no literal translation. It happily cements that no matter which locale we are from, we are fortunate to find ourselves in Wales and all the unique experiences it has to offer. A cwtch is not only an act of personal affection and love but also a presentation of heart-swelling national identity. We hope within these pages you can find the extra special sentiment that only a cwtch can bring.

February. Our contributors have valiantly approached perhaps the most emotionally wrought of seasonal holidays with their trademark insight, thoughtfulness, and humour. I found Ksenia Ryadnova’s ruminations on a gig as a first date particularly thought-provoking, capturing how strongly we are often characterised by our music taste, with often awkward results when these tastes don’t align. Similarly, Bhamini Khandige’s exploration of how romance is communicated in classic poetry is a joy to read, as empathetic and expressive as the literature celebrated.

I also particularly enjoyed the travel section’s alternative approach to romantic trips, recommending the village of Eze over the hustle and bustle of Paris, with all its “little restaurants on palm-treed avenues and bakeries where you can practice your French,” or the Algarve on the south coast of Portugal. I don’t need to be persuaded any further, and I am booking my ticket immediately. Sunnier climates can’t come soon enough!

Of course, many of the stories and opinions in this issue concern Valentine’s Day. Whether single or accounted for, it looks like an almighty pressure over our social psyche during

Lucia Hello and welcome back to issue 197 of Quench!

I hope you’ve had a lovely start to the new term (despite all of the deadlines and exams!) and are settling back into university life after the Christmas break. The Welsh concept of ‘cwtch’, our theme for this issue, is a multifaceted term that encapsulates more than a mere physical embrace; it encompasses a profound sense of security, love, and sanctuary.

Derived from the Celtic word for ‘hiding place’ or ‘cubbyhole’, a cwtch goes beyond the ordinary act of hugging. It evokes a deep, emotional embrace that provides comfort and reassurance, creating a safe haven in the arms of another.

In our fast-paced digital age, where screens often mediate our interactions, the essence of cwtch invites us to pause, reflect, and appreciate the significance of genuine human connection. It encourages us to be present in the moment, to acknowledge the importance of face-to-face communication, and to foster relationships that go beyond the superficial.

‘Cwtch’ also speaks to the power of community and shared experiences.

Whether found within the tight-knit bonds of family or between friends, the concept emphasizes the strength that

comes from coming together. It reminds us that, in times of hardship or joy, the support of a community can be a source of immense comfort, much like the enveloping warmth of a cwtch.

As we explore the theme of ‘cwtch’ in the following pages, we invite you to reflect on your own experiences of warmth and connection. Consider the moments that have made you feel secure, loved, and embraced. In doing so, we hope to inspire a collective awareness of the importance of nurturing meaningful connections in our lives.

In the spirit of this Welsh concept, let us strive to create spaces where individuals can find solace, support, and the profound embrace of a cwtch.

Meet The Team

4

Meet the team Cwtch Issue 197

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Alanya Smith Editor-In-Chief

Angelina Mable

Head of Social Media

Lucia Cubb Deputy Editor

Billy Edwards Deputy Editor

Mia Wilson

Head of Design

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Meet The Team

5

Ella Collis

Izzy Walsh

Polly Brewster

AJ Lumley

Katie Storrie

Annie Tallis

Laura Schjoett

Freya Johns

Olivia Griffin

Bethan Gwynne

Ashley Thieme

Tom Nicholson

Features

Literature

Fashion

Features

Literature

Fashion

Music

Spotlight

Film & TV

Music

Spotlight

Film & TV

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Meet The Team

6

Ellisse Heller

Tegan Davies

Kayleigh Lloyd

Julia Bottoms

Nicole Saroglou

Jasmine Dodd

Sabine Wilson-Patrick

Food & Drink

Niamh Roberts Culture

Food & Drink

Maddie Balcombe Column

Culture

Copy Editor

Travel

Beca Dalis Williams Clebar

Copy Editor

Travel

Beth Rocke Clebar

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Meet The Team

Emily Williams

Instagram Manager

7

Eleanor Kay

Imogen Edmonds Instagram Manager

Twitter Manager

Isla McCormack

Laura Nunez

Adam Breen

Mia Coley

Eszter Gurbicz

Elinor Pyman

Deputy Head of Design

Page Designer

Photographer

Page Designer

Photographer

Illustrator

Jiacheng Liu Photographer

Alicia Yap

Page Designer

XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

photography & design by: Mia Wilson

Features

What Does

9

Cwtch

Mean To You? Growing up, I had a genuine-held belief that the word ‘cwtch’ was just an everyday, English term. Being raised in South Wales, where the Welsh language hasn’t been utilised and taught as well as in the North, my only snippets of speaking my country’s mother tongue was during my bi-weekly Welsh classes. Which, I had up until the age of sixteen (and the Duolingo owl can vouch that I am still none the wiser). Still, the limited knowledge my mum had of Welsh was used as frequently as possible, I was taught the Welsh variants of my manners, numbers, alphabet and sang Penblwydd Hapus in lieu of Happy Birthday. But cwtch was one of those words that was used so regularly, that I never gave it a second thought. Me and my mum never hugged or cuddled, as neither of these terms held the same weight, felt the same as a cwtch did.

Speaking to my close English friend that I met through university, I tried to explain the term to her but felt like I was falling short of my own expectations. To me, the English neartranslations don’t come close to how it really feels to cwtch up on the sofa and watch a film. And cwtches are saved for the very best, may I add – I wouldn’t cwtch a friend in the way I cwtched up to my mum when poorly as a child, or cwtch my boyfriend after being apart for two months. Because, like I said – to cwtch isn’t to hug – it’s so much more. Maybe it’s a thing only the Welsh can understand, as per the famous quote on every kitchen wall in Wales – ‘anyone can cuddle, but only the Welsh can cwtch’. words by: Tegan Davies When I was growing up, I actually thought ‘cwtch’ was an English word. I know, I know, it doesn’t exactly look like English, does it? For context, I was born in London, and unless you count GCSE Welsh and the ability to respond to any situation with ‘bobl bach!’ (which I don’t), I don’t really have a Welsh-speaking bone in my body. However, my dad and his side of the family are Welsh, so when I was little my grandma would come down to stay with us in London and that’s where I picked up the word. The phrase ‘come and have a cwtch’ was probably one of her most used expressions when I was little and was always the cue for my 5-year-old self to run over to the sofa for a hug and – yep – a cwtch. It wasn’t until I moved to Wales when I was seven and started primary school that I realised ‘cwtch’ is actually a Welsh word loosely translating as cuddle.

However, now over twelve years into calling Wales my home, I’ve realised that the true significance of the word is so much more than that. ‘Cwtch’ has different meanings for different people, but I personally associate it with the home that I’ve found in Wales, the home created by my family and the countryside that I’ve grown up surrounded by. It reminds me of childhood and of laughter, but mostly, the deep emotional warmth I get from a hug with a loved one- especially my grandma. words by: Rhiannon James design by: Eszter Gurbicz

Cwtch

Features

Beating The Winter Blues

10

Time for yourself. While this seems glaringly obvious, it is the feature I forget most frequently: I always think about the next thing I could be doing instead of taking a step back. Reading for 30 minutes a day, spending time with my friends, or even scrolling on TikTok allows me to give myself a ‘cwtch’ after a busy day. I enjoy taking breaks outside of my apartment as it clears my head and eliminates any feelings of lethargy that have accumulated throughout the day.

As temperatures drop below freezing and deadlines are fast approaching, it is common to find yourself grappling with the so-called ‘Winter Blues’. The lack of extended sunlight makes me want to stay warm in my bed, scrolling endlessly on TikTok and ignoring the responsibilities I have willingly signed up for.

A ‘to-do list’, every day. Even if it is as simple as ‘wash up dishes’ or ‘meet Jack for a coffee’, feeling productive can be the first step I take to get myself out of a rut. Seeing all my tasks manageable laid out on paper in front of me allows me to start being productive after endless days of hibernating in my room, watching reruns of Kitchen Nightmares.

I am a notoriously busy person. On top of my degree and very active social life, I have countless journalism extracurricular endeavours, from running a section of the university newspaper to being a social media manager for countless Instagram accounts. While I thoroughly enjoy everything I do, I feel more like a ‘human-doing’ than a ‘human-being’. This means I often find myself on the brink of burnout, waiting for the final push that will eventually tip me over the edge. However, when I find myself standing on the cliff, staring out onto the vast and endless tasks that need completing, I complete three things that ultimately get me out of a rut. The three T’s, if you will:

Winter is not necessarily known for being the cheeriest of seasons, with its endless shades of grey and its treacherous temperatures, it creates the perfect recipe for a rut. Especially after taking into consideration that all the festivities are over and the dark streets are no longer lit up by rows of Christmas lights, it can be quite hard not to give in to the sombre mood. However, in depressing situations, there are always ways to flip the script and motivate yourself by attempting to romanticise the chilly season.

Tidy your space. I am a neat freak. All the clutter in my room has a designated space, and I spend evenings deep cleaning my bathroom. Existing in a peaceful, clean space is often my first step to getting away from my ‘cliff’ of burnout. In this respect, I am lucky I live alone as everything in my space is mine and I rarely deal with external, distracting noise. I believe it’s beneficial to have no distractions or areas for procrastination while tackling tasks.

words by: Belle Lee

Personally, when winter approaches, I have a habit of creating a routine that works around and even thrives off obstacles like the weather and the early sunsets.

For starters, in the winter more than ever, it is crucial to wake up early, even though it can be incredibly hard, to enjoy as much daylight as possible. Waking up at 9am rather than 12pm really does help to feel more productive and energised, setting the right tone for the day with the help of a little caffeine in the morning, of course. Getting up early is easier said than done, so it can be of massive help to make plans to study, or get

Features

11

a coffee with someone in the morning so you have a ‘respons -ibility’ to wake up! You -’ve just killed two birds with one stone: waking up early and getting your day started.

This way you can enjoy the first half of your day, and by the time it’s dark outside, you will be ready to go home and get cozied up. Which takes me to the second biggest limitation of the winter, the cold. While heating is expensive and sometimes our own homes can feel like igloos, this is the time to get excited about warm and comfortable pyjamas, fuzzy socks, hot chocolates and heated blankets. In all truth, nothing screams ‘cwtch’ more than sitting in your bed with a hot drink watching your comfort show.

Ultimately, the winter season is undeniably hard, no matter how early we wake up or how much we romanticise it. Sometimes, the best we can do is to be kind to ourselves and not push our limits. It’s okay to feel drained, have low-energy, and feel apprehensive about going outside in negative degrees. But we can still try and take baby steps to feel better. For me, the salvation this winter is learning to crochet!

words by: Natalia Murcia Cencerrado design by: Mia Wilson

Column

12

Column No matter what stage you are at in your relationship, whether you’ve been together for as long as you can remember or you’ve just taken a step up from the talking stage, there is no denying that love can be hard to navigate.

In today’s society, there are so many pressures that surround the romantic relationship that we have with our significant other. First, you’ve got to work out your love language and set your standards, then you’ve got to find someone who gives you what you’re looking for and matches your energy, then comes a plethora of stages: talking, seeing, exclusive, and when you finally make it as a couple you’ve got to keep the love alive.

These pressures take their toll on everyone in different ways, but often these realities are even more exemplified when you’re in a long distance relationship.

I’ve been with my boyfriend for a year. After meeting by chance at the bar in Live Lounge (so romantic, I know), we took our time getting to know each other and eventually made it official. From the moment I met him, we clicked.

We’d experienced similar things, had the same taste in music, made each other laugh and spoke as if we’d known each other for years. On paper, everything is perfect! But we do have distance to contend with.

From the moment we met, I was under no illusion and knew that this would be something I’d have to deal with. Despite all of our similarities, we are at very different stages in our lives. At the time, I was in my third year of university and I’ve since progressed onto an MA course. He’s been in a steady job with unpredictable hours for years, and lives happily in his hometown… which is 70 miles from Cardiff and 200 miles from my hometown, Essex.

Don’t get me wrong, some people will see these as rookie numbers, and I am aware that I’m very lucky to only have to go a few hours down the road to see him. I often see couples on TikTok who travel across countries to see their partner!

But, whether you’re 2 hours or 2,000 miles apart, distance can be a tricky thing to wrap your head around.

Despite not always physically being together, my partner and I are completely content and secure in our day-to-day routine that we’ve developed within the relationship. So, as the day of love is fast approaching, I thought it might be beneficial to share some top tips on how to navigate long distance love!

1. Make an effort to talk when you can Obviously balance is important in all relationships. Spending time apart and prioritising your hobbies, friends and family is just as important as spending time together. However, when distance separates you, it’s important to make time for each other when you can. Be it a five minute call when you’re driving to work, a FaceTime before bed, or even just consistent communication over text, little things like this make all the difference.

13 2. Always have something to look forward to When me and my boyfriend are saying our goodbyes, we always make sure we know when we’re next going to be seeing each other. Sometimes it isn’t for a while, but it always helps knowing that there is an end in sight. We also book things up in advance (for instance, we already have our 2024 summer holiday booked). When you’re physically apart, these plans for the future can help to reassure you that the relationship is all good and still heading in the right direction.

3. Quality time is key When you are able to see your partner, it is so important to make sure that you’re spending quality time together. Of course, this will look different for everyone, but personally myself and my boyfriend will always try and make sure we have a nice ‘date’ activity (whether it’s something at home or elsewhere), see each others friends and family, or even just take time to go on a nice walk. As tempting as it can be to just stay in bed and watch TikTok together, when it comes to leaving you might find yourself feeling as though you’ve not really seen them properly.

4. Honest communication is vital This goes without saying for all relationships. If you want any kind of relationship in your life to succeed, open communication is absolutely necessary. If you’re having a down day or feeling a bit sad, don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and give your person a ring. If something they’ve done has annoyed you, address and squash it there and then. We all know how things can be misinterpreted over text, so it’s best to talk it out immediately instead of letting these things fester. And, of course, always keep each other updated in terms of your individual plans and arrangements!

5. Make it clear that you’re thinking about each other When my boyfriend went travelling in Thailand, he sent me a bunch of flowers mid-trip to my house in Cardiff with a thoughtful note attached. When he moved onto night shifts, I sent him some brownies in the post to boost morale! We always remember each other’s key dates, send each other nice messages and make sure we’re being as thoughtful and supportive as we can be. Little gestures like these really speak volumes when you can’t physically be together. words by: Maddie Balcombe design by: Mia Coley

Film & TV

14

So, is this movie a revival of laugh out loud, sweet romcoms? I certainly think so. Not one person in the cinema could refrain from bursting out in laughter in the beginning and swooning at the end. The balance between the romance and comedy was impeccable. This sets it apart from its predecessors, as many rom-coms lack the comedic element which is ever so necessary for a film of this genre. The jokes kept rolling and the swoon-worthy romance was to die for - now everyone wants a Glen Powell in their life! I believe that Anyone But You will inevitably be a crucial influence for the comeback of this genre that is much overdue.

Are Glen Powell and Sydney Sweeney the new Hugh Grant and Julia Roberts? Anyone But You has sparked major conversations amongst the girlies, but for all the right reasons. Many say the rom-com genre has withered over the years, yet this film has certainly reignited the spark and brought back the witty, cheesy noughties rom-com style that we all know and love.

Hit romantic comedies such as 10 Things I Hate About You and Clueless are all based on classic literary texts and Anyone But You is the same. This refreshing romantic comedy is adapted from the classic Shakespeare play ‘Much Ado about Nothing’. This may be the reason why this film has had a smash success.

Este Haim and Chris Stacey truly blessed us with this phenomenal soundtrack. ‘Unwritten’ by Natasha Bedingfield (a 2004 hit) has resurged, entering the ‘Viral 50’ in the TikTok music charts. Let’s admit, this is now not just Ben’s serenity song, but ours too. ‘Got Me Started’ by Troye Sivan also should not be forgotten. This was the perfect song for the intimate, atmospheric dance scene. The combination of contemporary songs with noughties hits ensured there was something for everyone in the audience to love.

This showstopping film has all the ingredients that make a rom-com a truly good one: a big gesture, an extremely unrealistic meet-cute and much more. What could this film possibly be missing? Well, many critics say that Sydney Sweeney didn’t deliver the charms in this movie. People feel that she was overpowered by her co-star Glen Powell. However, I completely disagree: she had the abrupt, non-filtered humour that is quintessential for a film like this.

I really hope we see this duo together on the big screen again after their unmatched chemistry in this delightful gem of a rom-com.

This is the first romantic comedy that has stuck in my mind for weeks on end. So much so that I had to return to the cinema to watch it for a second time; it certainly didn’t lose its touch the second time around. As a major rom-com fan this film has, without a doubt, provided me with hope for a new generation of wonderful, nostalgic rom-coms like this to come.

words by: Ellie Gosley illustration by: Alicia Yap design by: Alicia Yap

Film & TV

15

A Cosy Valentine’s Date 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) A 90s retelling of Shakespeare’s ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ with incredibly quotable lines, it has a cult following for a reason. It’s just the right blend of romance and comedy to keep everyone entertained.

Plus, the scene where Patrick serenades Kat with ‘I Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You’ alone is romantic enough to put anyone in the right mood for date night.

And for those of you watching this on a first, second or even third date, there are plenty of potential topics to discuss. Perhaps the merits of modern Shakespeare retellings, how you’d adapt the story for the new generation or even how soon the two of you can organise your very own paintball date.

To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before Series If you’re looking for a movie series to binge on a date night, then this cute romance trilogy based on the novels by Jenny Han is the way to go. Lana Condor is brilliant in the role of Lara Jean, a girl who fantasises about romance but when she’s confronted with the reality of it, isn’t sure how to deal with it. For anyone who’s aware of the fake dating trope, it’s clear how this movie is going to end, but that doesn’t take away the charm of the story or the simple beauty of the directing choices. It’s the rom-com equivalent of a chocolate chip cookie, sweet, comforting and a staple in its field.

Each subsequent movie is just a little less impressive than the last, but if you’re invested in Lara Jean and her friends, it’s worth following it through. words by: Nyree McCann

Who needs an evening of fancy dinner reservations, where you are ultimately are destined for sore feet and a lofty cheque. Alternatively, you could gather a warm cup of something yummy, a plethora of blankets, someone you are particularly fond of and stick on a seriously good film.

About Time (2013) Arguably one of the best romcoms ever, it gives all the warmth and fuzzies without being too soppy. It combines elements of romance, drama and time travel offering a heartfelt perspective of how you should treat your day-today.

The Princess Bride (1987) An oldie but a goodie that has everything you want Adventure, romance and a bit of swash and buckle. A comfort movie that warms the soul and keeps your S.O. awake until the end credits.

Crazy Rich Asians (2018) Live vicariously through the extravagant world of wealth in Singapore. The movie provides an ensemble cast, stunning visuals and witty dialogue making it a visually sumptuous experience. Beyond the glitz and glamour, it is a celebration of love, family and the complexities that come with them. words by: Emily Cartwright design by: Alanya Smith

Sometimes we don’t want to be in a stuffy, fancy, over-the-top restaurant on Valentine’s Day. The pressures of perfection become too much, as we try to top the year before and the year before that.

So, what’s the best way to enjoy a Valentine’s night-in? Well, one way could be to revel in a laid-back evening at home. What you need is a date night timeless classic. A night of films in the living room surrounded by snacks and blankets.

Here are some of my best recommendations to help you indulge in a cosy Valentine’s Day at home with some of the best romantic films: Titanic (1997) | 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) | Dirty Dancing (1987) | La La Land (2016) | Grease (1978) So, spend the night full of smiles, tears and laughter whilst leaving out the awkward silences as the films take the spotlight of the evening. words by: Ella Simons

Film & TV

16

What If You Don’t Love Love?

Love | Love | Love | Love

Love | Love | Love | Love

We can all agree Jude Law had us falling head over heels in The Holiday (2006) and Julia Roberts lived out the California dream in Pretty Woman (1990), but what if mushy romance isn’t your thing? Luckily there are some alternatives to keep you busy this Valentine’s Day! Any student living in Cardiff can relate to Human Traffic (1999), an independent coming-of-age film based on the Cardiff clubbing scene in the 1990s. The film follows five friends, avid clubgoers, as they take their party loving attitudes to new heights, both emotionally and chemically. With themes of friendship, club culture and 90’s aesthetic - with some Cardiff sight-spotting thrown in - this film is one to watch.

Alternatively, if you like suspense, The Lost Daughter (2021) is for you. A middle-aged woman finds her holiday turned upside-down when dark echoes of her past resurface. This bone chilling film has suspense, tension and complex layers of meaning, everything you need to avoid those blockbuster rom-coms.

This wouldn’t be a film recommendation list if Barbie (2023) wasn’t mentioned! The film may include elements of romance between Barbie and Ken, but Barbie ultimately choses to reject societal norms and embrace feminist womanhood by accepting herself as she is. The iconic pink aesthetic and soundtrack, paired with the powerful message of empowerment, make this film a must-watch if you’re not into celebrating Valentine’s Day. words by: Alex Ponting design by: Alanya Smith

Pretty Woman 1990

Human Traffic 1999

The Holiday 2006

The Lost Daughter 2021

Barbie 2023

photography by: Adam Breen

photography by: Jiacheng Liu

Music

That fuzzy feeling...

Harold Budd & Brian Eno - Ambient 2: The Plateaux of Mirror During the solitary evenings of the Decemeber 2020 to March 2021 government-omnishambles-onlinelearning-forlornathon, I would often turn to the ethereal piano dreamscapes of Brian Eno and Harold Budd’s The Plateaux of Mirror to restore some sort of tranquility within me. In between comfort watches of The US Office to keep dopamine receptors operational, I would lie on my bed and self-indulgently wallow in both my own lugubriousness as well as Budd’s idyllic melodies and Eno’s deathless blankets of comfy reverb. Budd’s repetitive plonks represented order in a world that needed it dearly, soaring and gliding under Eno’s shimmering production. words by: Josef Swindell Harry Styles - Harry’s House As basic as it may be, anything Harry Styles brings comfort and joy to me, but particularly Harry’s House because of when it came out. May 2022 - the beginning of my A levels. I will say wholeheartedly that this album got me through my exams, without a doubt. It was the perfect amount of time that it lasted my drive to college, and reduced my pre-exam anxiety significantly. So whenever I listen to it now, it brings back feelings of happiness, solace, warmth and nostalgia. Listening to Harry’s voice feels like a big hug. words by: Ella Collis

19 Music can do a world of healing.

Our contributors discuss which songs and records make t h e m f e e l w a r m i n s i d e a n d w h y. . .

Taylor Swift - folklore/evermore - The Sister Albums Taylor Swift is arguably the most prominent artist in the music industry today, with her critically acclaimed ‘Eras Tour’ keeping pace with her re-recording of her previous ‘stolen’studio albums. In 2020, Taylor Swift released, what I believe to be her ‘magnum opus’, -folklore, her eighth studio album. folklore introduced ‘Swifties’ to a fictional world of a lovetriangle between characters, James, Betty and, Augustine. Personally to me, folklore’spoetic lyricism and sonically stunning production by Swift herself and Jack Antonoff createda feeling of nostalgia in a time so dark for many, being deep in the coronavirus lockdown.

Swift stated that she simply “could not stop writing” and so shortly after, the sister album –evermore was born. These albums allowed listeners to not only consume new music butalso be transported into a refreshing and calming world of lyrical beauty. I distinctlyremember sitting on rocks staring out at the sea and just being amazed by my favourite song from folklore – ‘The Last Great American Dynasty’. words by: Sam Davies design by: Alanya Smith photography by: Mia Wilson

Music

20

I must have at least 10 different playlists downloaded on Spotify right now titled variations of “Confidence Boost” and “Love Yourself”. I strongly believe that evoking feelings of empowerment and self-love in people is one of the important functions of music, and there are several anthems which are very effective at boosting my confidence. I’m a massive Swiftie, so it’s safe to say that some of her songs, including ‘All Too Well’, ‘Anti-hero’, and ‘You’re On Your Own, Kid’ are top of my list. Additionally, ‘All About That Bass’ by Meghan Trainor, ‘There It Goes’ by Masie Peters, ‘Flowers’ by Miley Cyrus are also some of my favourites. They may be cliché, but there’s nothing like a song that gives you a warm fuzzy feeling inside. words by: Rhiannon James

Valentine’s Day can be a lonely, disheartening time for some - but love isn’t all about other people, so we asked our contributors which songs felt like self-love to them.

No one makes these kinds of anthems like Marina. She always delivers lyrics with an aura of “what are you gonna do about it” that makes you believe you’re that girl. ‘Oh No!’ and ‘Are You Satisfied?’ do this better than the rest of her discography. ‘Oh No!’ has an ear-thumping beat behind it that puts the spring in your step while you walk to your lectures or your depressing job, making you feel like you invented hustling by doing whatever it is you do. ‘Are You Satisfied?’ does the same with a euphoric chorus and verses that give you the feeling that you can go beyond your own limits. words by: Ivy Morris design by: Alanya Smith

‘A Summer Wasting’ by Belle and Sebastian is a bittersweet song longing for the carefree nature of summer. During the January blues I find exam season, failed new year’s resolutions and pressures to constantly be productive lower my self-worth. The lyrics capture academic struggle, “feeling guilty” and “staying up all night”. Despite this the singer tries to be content with his “wasted summer” singing “But if the summer’s wasted, How come that I could feel so free”. The song brings me comfort allowing me to romanticise moments of relaxing, being with friends or when I’m just too tired to keep up, reinforcing self-love from the relentless pursuit of productivity. In these lulls, the lyrics gently remind me that “everything will be fine.” words by: Catrin Stephens

Music

21

Make or Break Are Gigs A Good First Date?

A lot of people would presume that accompanying someone to a gig for a first date is ideal, but could it be equivalent to the ‘cinema date?’

This does not factor my own experiences so perhaps I am being stubborn with this, but imagine taking your Hinge date to a Turkish-eclectic-experimental-synth-hyperpopgroup that you have no interest in. You would just have to awkwardly smile and down seven tequila shots before you call it a night.

But of course, it is unfair to negatively target couples that do show up to gigs as a first date. If executed correctly, it could be the start of a blossoming romance. I think it is important to know your date’s interests before you meet up with them initially; it’s awkward if you don’t. Now I’m not saying to perform a Joe Goldberg number on them (it may work for some people) but questioning their interests in music and art can not only help one fall in love with their date but prove that they can put in the effort to make them comfortable on their first date.

In retrospect, I always wondered what would happen if a Rammstein fan fell in love with a Clairo fan; it would seem peculiar no? Attempting to bond over sweaty German men and a lovely girl with an acoustic guitar would be difficult . But it’s harsh to consider the negatives of people’s personalities,

and ignore all other things that attract each other. In my opinion, if someone is content with ‘sacrificing’ their enjoyment to see their date have a fun experience, then that would be the noblest gesture an individual can do. It could become the greatest story for the couple’s kids in the future, and perhaps taking your partner to gigs as a first date will become a generational legacy for many (I’d sure like that).

All in all, one should be wary of picking a gig as a first date. In all honesty, it is a nicer idea compared to others. However, one should understand that it could become a makeor-break situation for the couple; either you boast your new partner to your friends that get impressed by simplistic gestures, or you fear for your life knowing you went to a post-punk gig after showing them that your number one on Spotify wrapped 2023 was Taylor Swift. words by: Ksenia Ryadnova design by: Alanya Smith photogrpahy by: Mia Wilson

Literature

22

Love Letters Between Poets ‘He is half of my soul, as the poets say’ - The Song of Achilles, Madeleine Miller.

Read Bhamini Khandige’s insight on the beauty of caputred love that only a poet could romanticise so eloquently. words by: Bhamini Khandige

photography and design by: Isla McCormack

What does it mean to be loved by a poet? It means to experience a love that will never die. A poet will write for their lover with affection and intimacy beyond words.

Until his last dying breath, as he faced his impending death, Keats longed for the embrace of Brawne comforting arms, even as he welcomed the grave as his only solution from suffering. His final thought of his lover was poignant and tender. To think of your lover in your last moments is incredibly moving.

Throughout history, poets have displayed their love in various ways, from secret admirers to public declarations.

When a poet writes about their love, they capture their lover’s very essence and soul with their words. This creates a lasting bond that transcends time and space.

An example of this is the love story between John Keats and Fanny Brawne. Their love for each other is incredibly touching yet tragic. Brawne was the fiancée and muse of the romantic poet John Keats. The pair started as neighbours and later became engaged up until Keats’ untimely death. He lost his life due to tuberculosis. Brawne inspired many of Keats’ best-known poems. As a result of the poems and letters that were exchanged, the story of these ‘star crossed lovers’ has been cemented in history and literature forever.

None of Brawne’s letters to Keats have survived; however, their relationship is easily decipherable through Keats’ words. Keats wrote about how his love for her consumed him. He experienced courtly love and described it as being painful. In a poem from October 1819, Keats says how Brawne has absorbed him, and he would be miserable without seeing her. One of the most touching sentiments in this poem for me personally goes as follows: ‘I have been astonished that Men could die Martyrs for religion – I have shudder’d at it – I shudder no more – I could be martyr’d for my Religion – Love is my religion – I could die for that – I could die for you.’

Love changed Keats as, even though it caused him pain, he endured his love towards Brawne. The impact of this in changing his morals and attitudes is definitely admirable.

The linguistic creativity of poets is unmatched, the love that is offered between each is seen as being incomparable. To be addressed sweetly from the first line of a letter until the last is something very beautiful. The opening and closing of letters are hard to forget and leave a lasting impression.

Oh, to receive a letter and be addressed as, ‘my sweet love’

by Keats, ‘my dearest’ by Byron, or, my personal favourite, ‘MY DEAREST ANGEL’ by Balzac! These poets closed their letters off affectionately, often expressing their undying and all-consuming love.

Letters immortalise the love of these poets. The handwritten pages exude warmth and passion in a way that is so dear.

To be loved by a poet is one of the greatest privileges in this world, and reading these intimate words leaves us hopeful and our hearts full.

“Love is my religion – I could die for that – I could die for you.”

- John Keats

Fashion

24

Love Between the Pages:

A Guide to a Booklover’s Dream Date

Romanticise those iconic book couples this Valentines Day. Here are some of ideal dream dates for people who love to have their nose in a page-turner.

Today, it is difficult to get away from the business of everyday life and escape with the words of a good book. So if the man of my dreams - straight out of a romance novel - ran into me at a coffee shop, he would notice the book in my hands and say, "Pride and Prejudice? That’s one of my favourites”. Then, he would ask me to meet up sometime, mirroring the classic romance.

Fast forward to our date, and we go to Hay-on-Wye in Wales, known for its enchanting bookshops. There, surrounded by the bookish charm, we would each pick out a book for the other person, take it home and annotate it with our thoughts. Later, we would read each other’s chosen book, complete with the annotated notes. Finally, after some time we would meet up in the coffee shop where we first crossed paths to discuss.

That would be a perfect first date. words by: Damilola Akinkunmi

As a book-obsessed university student, my dream date would have to be at Barter Books in Alnwick. It’s a café, a bookshop and a cosy room, all in one! They have roaring fires and cosy armchairs, you could sit and read for hours.

Being on a date, where sitting together and reading is expected, is truly my dream. The café has little quotes from novels and plays dotted around the ceiling, with rows and rows of books. It is an absolute paradise.

I think the person I’d choose to go with is my best friend.

Like me, she loves books and would happily sit there for hours with me. This is what an ideal date should be.

Spending hours, reading, drinking coffee, and cosying up by the fire.

If they ever open a Barter Books in Cardiff, I will be the first person there, equipped with my current read and enough money for at least seven coffees. words by: Rosie Hawkeswood

I’m writing this at home, in my room, which is piled full of books. I don’t think I can give an adequate description for this, every surface has books, my bedside table; the foot of my bed; the growing stack next to my full bookcase; you get the picture. So, please don’t doubt my qualifications for this piece, I am the wormiest of bookworms.

For those of you looking to impress the booklover in your life, this is what I would suggest – a book-swap picnic. First, go into town and find some charity shops: they always have tons of books. They are a fraction of the price compared to books from Waterstones and Blackwells. Then, find a nice café and buy some takeaway food from there and go to sit in Bute Park.

The Secret Garden is perfect for this. Finally, spend the afternoon reading and comparing books with your food. They’ll love it.

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, a bookish date is a sure-fire way to impress the bibliophile in your life. Make a themed dinner, based on their favourite novel or book series.

If you can’t find a private library, transform a room into a literary haven. Dim the lights and arrange a variety of plush cushions for the perfect book nook. Commit to your bookish theme: think cosy Shire.

Then, immerse your bookworm into the world of their favourite novel through cuisine. Use Pinterest to gain your inspiration, and feature dishes named after beloved authors or literary realms as a cute way to spice up a meal.

Ranging anywhere from Carroll’s Wonderland croquettes, to Hemingway’s hearty stews, the more creative, the better.

Keep the night brimming with bookish charm and engage in some light competition. A bookish game could range from character charades to a quote quiz.

words by: Poppy Adams

words by: Emily Cartwright

One of my favourite things as a book lover, and former bookseller, is recommending my favourite books to others. It not only helps them understand you as a person, but allows you both to connect on a deeper level with the hopes of now having a shared love for something.

Therefore, my ideal date would be browsing around a bookstore and selecting a few of our favourite books. We would then have a cosy indoor reading session or a picnic depending on the Welsh weather, and exchange our books and opinions with each other, discussing the best part of them. We would not only be discovering new stories but also learning new information about our potential partners.

However, the theme of books would be children’s literature, due to their importance to me, the memories associated, and the general nature of fun they have. photography and design by: Isla McCormack

words by: Katherine Witts

Fashion

25 Photography by Isla McCormack Her designs take the bow

from the classic accessory to a bold statement piece.

Another high fashion brand that inspired this trend is the resurgence of Miu Miu and their collection of ballet flats, which ties into the ‘ballet-core’ trend. Social media makes high fashion accessible with influencers showing their audiences how to get the look on a budget; for example, adding craft store ribbons into your hairstyle or adding lace embellishments to your clothes. They also provide a constant stream of inspiration with daily outfit videos, lifestyle vlogs, and trends that reference the aesthetic.

Social media allows users to put their own spin on popular trends and helps formulate new trends under the same umbrella.

Many praise the rise of hyperfeminine style for allowing women to embrace girlhood again by dressing in feminine

Put A

BOW On It:

Unravelling Coquette Core To embrace or not to embrace? Angelina Mable talks femininity, childhood and controversy in the societal and cultural coding of the new ‘it’ aesthetic.

C

oquette-core, the Internet’s new favourite aesthetic, is characterised by its ultra-romantic and hyperfeminine style. The trend embraces bows, lace, frills and all things girly and whimsical. The word ‘coquette’ is simply defined as a woman who flirts, the style references this in its playfulness and use of classic feminine motifs. Like many internetborn aesthetics, it draws elements from various styles like ‘balletcore’ and other ‘soft-girl’ inspired aesthetics.

Historically, the coquette look draws influences from the Regency period but is also very inspired by ‘Lolita’ fashion, which is often deemed controversial based on its origins.

Like coquette-core, the ‘Lolita’ aesthetic has flirtatious and girly characteristics but it has been credited with glamorising the sexualisation of young girls due to the source material being Vladimir Nabokov’s 1955 novel Lolita. As trends change, we find that many current aesthetics

are just re-iterations of previous styles. For example, many of the aesthetics that fall under the umbrella of coquette-core were heavily popularised on Tumblr in the 2010s.

Many popular Tumblr-born aesthetics were also quite controversial in the communities that they created. An example of this is the ‘waif’ aesthetic and the birth of pro-Ana content on the platform. It romanticises eating disorders, drug use, and mental illness in it’s influences of the 1990s supermodels, The Virgin Suicides, and toxic diet culture. It’s quite common for popular internet trends to have a dark side that strays away from their positive intention. Social media is credited with the rise of many trends and their spread to the masses. However, many fashion trends are started with high fashion brands and diffused through social media. Designer Sandy Liang is known for her use of bows by making them the focal point of her collections, like her SS24 runway.

motifs like lace, bows, and baby pink. It’s a common experience amongst young women that - at some point - we begin to resent everything seen as hyperfeminine and hate the idea of being seen as a ‘girly-girl’. The idea of being ‘not like other girls’ was praised while those ‘other girls’ were seen as basic, vain, and unserious. This return to hyperfeminine fashion allows us to reclaim our childhoods and embrace the whimsical playfulness of being a ‘girly-girl’ once again. Last year saw the rise of trends based around girlhood from internet terms like ‘girl-dinner,’ the impact of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie movie, to a slew of high-fashion trends embracing femininity. Heading into 2024, coquettecore is predicted to be one of the most popular trends due to how easy it is to participate in reclaiming femininity by simply ‘putting a bow on it’.

words by: Angelina Mable

photography and design by: Isla McCormack

Fashion

26

A Memo From 2023: Red is the New Pink!

words by: Bhamini Khandige Red - passion, desire, love, power - the intensity of this colour was fitting for the impact it made in 2023.

The bold colour has been a statement accessory for decades but in the past year, has made waves from people’s nails to their shoes. Red has always been a symbol of power for women, and the power of a good red lip has never been underestimated. 2023 was all about red. Designers highlighted red and made it more casual while still allowing it to be a symbol of power by the wearer. It undoubtedly captured the fashion world and found a place in everyone’s wardrobe.

Before 2023, the versatility of red was underestimated, as people assumed that red could only be worn one way. The new ‘it’ colour displayed its versatility through its many faces. 2023 saw the resurgence of burgundy, cherry, maroon, and neon red. The vivacious colour suited everyone, and everyone could take part in its revival in any way that they were comfortable.

For me, red served as a symbol of the power within me, and wearing red on my nails was my favourite display of this. The ability to wear bold nails in a professional environment was invigorating. The best part for me was that red could never be ignored or overlooked - from just painting my nails, I felt bolder, stronger, and more capable. The boldness was daunting, but the confidence that was needed to dip into a bit of red was worth it. Painting my nails red quickly went from a oneoff situation to a routine, to the point where I didn’t feel

like myself without my signature red nails!

Runaways and the high street have tended to play on the safe side with colours, and have often opted recently for neutrals and lighter colours. However, the revival of several 90’s and Y2K fashion trends called for the colour red. At Sabato De Sarno’s Gucci debut in September, red became the ‘it’ shade, and the colour caught on, with it quickly being seen on the streets of New York, London, and Milan during their fashion weeks. Red certainly took the world by storm, with Pantone naming Viva Magenta as their colour of the year for 2023. This is extremely significant, as neutral colours have dominated all aspects of fashion and design in recent years. Pantone themselves have called their colour a “shade rooted in nature descending from the red family and expressive of a new signal of strength.

Viva Magenta is brave and fearless, a pulsating colour whose exuberance promotes a joyous and optimistic celebration, writing a new narrative.”

Personally, red is classic, timeless and its flexibility is in its strength. A brighter, rosey red would suit the warmer spring and summer months while the chilly autumn and winter months will call for a deep burgundy. We’ll continue wearing reds reminiscent of sweet summer cherries as well as rich mulled wines, and red will continue to have a place at everyone’s table and in everyone’s wardrobe.

Fashion

27

words by: Holly Beaumont We’ve seen the “Barbie” take-over of summer 2023, with trends of wearing pink to see the film at cinemas.

The overwhelming wave of pink fashion entered our sphere, going back to the classic ‘Barbiecore’ pink clothing we all once grew up with. However, with the incoming winter season and as trends come and go, Barbie pink was out the window, and it has presented us with a new trendy colour to try, which is red. Until you look back on fall 2023, it becomes clear that in many collections from the Fall/Winter 2023 season; red was, in fact, everywhere. Red became the new ‘it girl’ style of the season. While red has always been seen as a classic, formal addition to any outfit, the colour has not seen this level of resurgence in decades.

Looking back in history, red became a dominating space in culture in the era of swing dresses. Looking at 1950s fashion styles, the red swing dress epitomised the idea of classical fashion: a symbol of innocence and subtle sensuality.

The fashion world has adapted their style to adhere to the new red aesthetic. From Valentino’s collection that featured stunning red gowns that exuded elegance, while Hermès’ dark and dramatic red pieces paired with textured fabrics were a mesmerising hybrid of gothic and romantic aesthetics. This retro revival of the classic red look has transformed modern, everyday fashion and we are now moving away from comfy casual to classic formal style. Red accessories like pointed-toe flats, tights, and red lips have also been spotted, adding a pop of vibrant colour to each outfit.

Red is not just a colour on the runway; It’s a statement

design by: Mia Wilson

of confidence and empowerment in street style. Aside from the luxury fashion market, red items in women’s fashion are also up 49 percent year-over-year in the last three months. The colour red has led to a 69 percent increase in women’s fashion sales and a 210 percent increase in men’s fashion sales. The infamous cherry red which we have seen all over TikTok and Instagram will remain a strong symbol of elegance within the fashion sphere for all genders. This transition to integrate red into our everyday wardrobes has allowed for effortless elegance to emerge.

From icons such as Marilyn Monroe’s 1953 red lip and dress in her legendary performance of “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” to Rihanna’s 2023 Super-Bowl outfit as a powerful red statement, I believe the new phenomenon of red becoming the new pink has only just started. With iconic celebrations such as Valentine’s Day coming up, the romantic red style will only dominate this holiday. The association with red connotes love, passion and intimacy, which is something we all experience on classic holidays such as Christmas and Valentine’s Day. Therefore, we are able to express our feelings through our style of clothes.

photography by: Mia Wilson

photography by: Jiacheng Liu

Travel

That First ‘cwtch’

30

During the summer of 2023, I took a 3-week backpacking trip around Europe. There are a million and one magnificent things I saw in that time, from the bustling streets of Milan to the ethereal waterfalls of Slovenia. You’ll find these things scattered along the feed of any traveller’s page, but this piece is about something that aesthetics miss out on the longing for your faraway home.

Over my time away, I discovered a lot, not just about the world but myself. I found that if one is tired enough, it is much easier than expected to fall asleep just about anywhere, and a pillow can certainly be found in the hardened window of a 10-hour train journey or two. I found that the convenience of a free public toilet is a luxury, and despite my best efforts, I really cannot hold in my pee.

I found that tea is hard to come by, and despite my genuine belief in ‘being built different’, caffeine withdrawals are real, and I was deep within their clutches.

Most of all, I learned that three weeks is a far longer time than expected, and whilst missing my bed, access to a (clean) toilet, and a morning brew, the things I missed most were the familiar arms of home, and the warm embrace of loved ones.

Ironically, despite the many fantastical memories made during my trip, my favourite by far is the moment I came home. Peeking through the station doors as I scanned my final ticket, I’ll never forget the moment that I saw my boyfriend again, and as I ran through the road to reach him, I doubt the driver of the car that almost hit me will forget it either. To set the scene, after 27 hours of travelling back, a delirious woman leaps into the arms of her hypersocially aware boyfriend, leaving smoke in her path (and belongings in the station). Of all the cuisine, sights, and paths I met during my trip, it was that cwtch of reunion that made my travels oh so special. I can now appreciate the wider world, whilst loving my immediate one the most. words by: Gabriella Sanders My first experience of the Heathrow Airport arrivals terminal was incredible. You can imagine it like the opening scene from Love Actually, taking place in real-time at the arrivals gate daily. For me, searching for my family amongst the crowd of people at arrivals was nerve-wracking after not seeing them for almost 3 months but the cwtch that awaited me was exactly what I’d imagined.

Spending my summer at a Summer Camp in upstate New York was truly insane and the best thing I’ve ever done, with the extra 2 weeks of travelling to Nashville and New Orleans, only enhancing this experience. Becoming friends with people from all over the UK, Europe and America was such an amazing experience that changed my life for the

Travel

better. Working with children for the summer was incredible, especially with the young Ukrainian children who were welcomed to the camp for free, as part of their not-for-profit organisation. Coming back to the UK after experiencing such intense culture shock was challenging but allowed me to appreciate everything that I have that I previously took for granted, while simultaneously missing American life.

Despite having the most amazing time, the first and last week of my stay was extremely difficult due to the intense homesickness that I suffered. Missing not only my family and friends but also British culture was something I struggled with when I first arrived in the US, especially since our phone time was limited at camp. This feeling went away for a little while but still cropped up occasionally, such as when I wanted a nice cup of tea, craved a home-cooked roast and really needed a hug from my mum. The anxious excitement that built up as my flight home approached was unlike anything I’d felt, as I was loving my time in the US but knew that I desperately wanted to have home comforts again. Touching down at Heathrow at 11 pm, after a tumultuous flight, feeling extremely jet-lagged and exhausted was all worth it for the anticipated family reunion to remind me I was home. words by: Millie Higgins Undoubtedly, having the ability to travel the way I have over the past two years has been the greatest privilege of my life.

From visiting Mount Rushmore, experiencing sorority life at an American University, being led to a hidden rave in Paris or getting my first tattoo (very) spontaneously in Latvia. I’m grateful to have been able to do so many insane things at this age. However, there is a less talked about side of longterm travel: the time that you miss at home. Occasionally when away, there is nothing that I crave more than to be in my childhood home, with my dog and my sister just down the hall.

This constant method of budget travel can be thrilling but, on returning to the UK, I am usually hustled straight off to university life once more. While I am grateful to be able to live out my 15-year-old self’s fantasies and proud that I’m capable of spending my free time seeing the world, a part of me craves the safety of a cwtch with my family, which is something that travel can’t replace - even if it is really cool.

Through getting to live out the amazing and transformative experiences that I have while travelling, I have learnt that sometimes life is about the moments we miss while we are away. These moments are most important and, although we might try, there is no way to get the best of both worlds. Upon returning to the UK I usually return to my quiet flat in Cardiff and spend time reflecting on my travels alone. Ultimately, when I reunite with my family and friends, wherever I can, I am sure to appreciate that first ‘cwtch’ and every moment before the last. words by: Jasmine Dodd design by: Elinor Pyman

31

Travel

32

Highway to love A lot of couples think Paris is a dream, they love the lights, the cosy restaurants, the now dismantled history of lovers on the Pont des Arts. It’s the simple pleasure of being somewhere canonically romantic, and yet, I think the most romantic place is a little further south. Eze is one of those small, blink-and-you-miss-it, villages, tucked between the mountains and coastline, in the south of France. I think there is something romantic about the perceived solitude of it, of feeling like you and the person you love are the only ones on earth. It’s rooted in the quiet. Where I stayed, the road was right behind us but somehow you didn’t hear cars, just the water shifting around this diminutive marina right under the balcony, and our voices. Or the music we were playing. It’s a place that doesn’t need to be romanticised because it simply is. Just the act of cooking breakfast feels like something from a novel. Not far from Eze there is a bigger town, Beaulieusur-Mer. Although you can catch the bus, leaving the village on foot is so much better. You become it; pinched between the watchful mountain face and the Mediterranean, walking on a single file down this path on the side of the highway.

It’s just the two of you, so Beaulieu feels like a city. The marina, more accurately called a harbour, is dotted with little restaurants on palm-treed avenues and bakeries where you can practise your French. Beaulieu is lovely, and there’s much more to do. You could plan an entire week of the most romantic dates there, but if I was there with someone I loved I would still be desperate to return to Eze. There’s just nothing more romantic than it being just the two of you. One morning I woke up to watch the sunrise, the air was crisp, the little boats bobbed in the tide and the sky just had a drop of blue in it. I don’t actually remember the sun, but I remember all the colours changing from night to day. I watched the whole sea become this almost imperceptible violet, deepened by the morning haze. And I remember thinking how I could sit in that moment forever with somebody I loved. words by: Sabine Wilson-Patrick Valentine’s day is an extremely special day for so many people, however, the whole concept of overpriced roses, fancy chocolate boxes and tacky jewellery has always seemed particularly superficial and manufactured to me.

Instead, I have come to appreciate the value of shared experiences and sense of adventure when building my relationships, allowing for lifelong memories to be made in unforgettable locations. Being able to travel and spend

quality time with loved ones is a unique and thoughtful way to express your gratitude and appreciation for them. Since February is known to be a particularly cold, damp, and miserable month in the UK, Valentines makes it the perfect excuse to jet off to a holiday and soak up some sunshine.

Also as one of the quietest off-season months in Europe, traveling during February can provide a more intimate, relaxing experience without the hustle and bustle of irritating tourists and screaming children.

With flights being less than an hour each way, The Algarve on the south coast of Portugal makes an ideal location for a Valentines getaway with a partner (or friends!). The region is renowned for its incredible golden beaches, having won the ‘European best destination for beaches’ for many years in a row. It is the perfect location to provide a sense of seclusion and detachment from the overwhelming stress of everyday life, and simply be able to enjoy each other’s company and the beautiful nature that surrounds you. There is nothing more romantic to me than the idea of a cool glass of bubbly on the beach while watching the beautiful sunset in the horizon. Whilst on holiday, it is also a necessity to indulge in the local cuisine, especially since Portugal is known for its rich flavoured foods of freshly baked Pastel de Nata, exotic fruits, local cheeses, and of course, fresh seafood. These experiences are what makes traveling so sentimental and enriching, creating shared moments that will last far longer than a box of chocolates!

It is important to note that whilst Valentine’s day is centred around couples and romantic relationships, this holiday is also a great opportunity to celebrate love in all formswhether that be friendships, kinships, or companionships.

Travelling with friends and family can be just as special, and it should be recognised as a day of celebration for all forms of love in your life. words by: Lucy Treloar design by: Alanya Smith

Food & Drink

Want to find the sexiest cocktail bars in Cardiff? Then head to St Mary’s Street, and step into another world. Here you will find exquisite experiences in Gin & Juice or Penny Royal. Why not throw on a nice outfit and languish in the luxurious atmosphere, with friends or a date?

If Gin is your poison, Gin & Juice will provide you with a vast selection of exactly that. With a collection of over 400 gins, you will be spoilt for choice. Take a seat on a snazzy barstool, or kick back in the cosy ‘snug’ area. Candlelight, decorated ceilings, and ambient music create an indulgent affair for the senses. Oh, and it’s open every day of the week!

If you want the best original cocktails in town, head to Art Deco Penny Royal, inspired by secret prohibition-era bars.

Penny Royal invents many of its cocktails, presenting them in a stylish and enjoyable menu, and surprising you with the most bizarre ingredient combinations tasting delicious!

If you want old-school Gatsby-esque glamour, then this is the place for you. words by: Laura Wallace Schjoett design by: Alicia Yap illustration by: Alicia Yap

33

One of my personal favourite bars in Cardiff for a great night out with friends is ‘Be At One’, located on the bustling St. Mary’s Street. Not only does it have trendy decor, but there are over 100 cocktails on the menu to choose from, and a ‘Happy Hour’ Sunday to Friday. It’s one of the most affordable bars for students in Cardiff with its student discount, so cocktails are only £6 - a bargain! My personal recommendation would be the Passion Fruit Margarita because it’s so yummy! The menu is also split into sections by the different spirits, so it makes it easier to find your favourite cocktail. The interior is eye-catching, from booths to barstools and popping LED signs throughout the bar. It makes for a really trendy place to hang out with friends.

You should definitely make it your mission to visit this bar this semester! words by: Isabel Chance

Let’s Go For A Drink Trying to impress your date with a fun new bar? Or just getting bored of the standard Cathays pubs? Why not give Peppermint a go?! Get that VIP experience walking past that painfully long Heidi’s queue and go two doors down to Peppermint! It is the summertime Ibiza trip in the heart of Cardiff Central, and chances are you’ve definitely walked past it heading to your bottomless brunch. And what’s better than no queue? Plus, for the “it’s never just one” gals and guys, get 50% off their DJ events and drinks packages every Sunday! Let your student finance account love you.

Get yourself on their fully heated outdoor terrace. Go to Peppermint…just not on a Wednesday… they aren’t open. words by: Issy Daplat

Food & Drink

34

A Good Girl’s Guide to Galentines We have all had that looming singles-fear as February 14th draws closer and closer, wondering how on earth we are going to spend the night? But have no fear: having a significant other is no longer a necessity for spending the night in style. Having a night in with the gals is equally, if not more, special. So we have you covered with some perfect ‘Galantines Day’ ideas to beat those February blues and leave you with a night to remember.

When it comes to planning fun activities with friends, I am a big advocate for supporting local, and if you’re down for keeping things wholesome, Cardiff has some wonderful haunts for getting creative. Pottery painting is a super fun way to spend your Galantines, and Peggy’s Pots in the Bone Yard (Cardiff Central) is the perfect place for it. They even allow you to bring food and drinks from next-door vendors.

So, if you fancy painting a cute heart pot or a vase, they have you sorted!

Or if you fancy something a bit more on the nose, hosting an ex-partner themed cocktail party is always a hit. We have some great ideas for you: for that classic “red flag” try a strawberry daiquiri or a cosmo. Or to suit one that was way too childish, a cocktail in a baby bottle works a cheeky treat.

Then there’s the “toxic” one which perhaps requires a tad more adventure in making bright green, but apple schnapps would ensure it tastes good. There are so many options to choose from, but it is a good chance to be creative and reminisce on what you no longer have to be stuck with this Valentine’s Day.

As a final idea if you are after some class and sophistication, hosting a Galantine’s dinner party is fun. I truly love any excuse to get dressed up, and is there really a better occasion for it than having dinner with your besties? To make it more in keeping with the theme, I suggest putting paper hearts in each person’s seat with a pen. Each take it in turn to pass the hearts around, writing your favourite thing about each person as you do. It really is one to warm the soul as something to remind you that having good friends can be just as fulfilling as having a partner. Or, even if you have found that special someone, it is still such a fun way of spending time with your gals and letting them know how much you appreciate them.

Even if you don’t end up doing something that extravagant, even a cheeky yoga class, or a nice walk in Bute Park, can make Galantine’s Day feel that much more special. words by: Ella Manning

Food & Drink

35

The perfect Galentines celebration can be hard to organise sometimes, with different hobbies and interests in the mix – believe me, I’ve been there! – but there is a way. One of the best ways to spend this holiday with all your girls has got to be the classic girl’s night in, and here are some fun ideas to get your planning started.

The first consideration has got to be food. Nothing tells your loved ones how much you care more than a homemade meal. Not only that but spending the time with your besties to make a dish you both love allows for quality bonding time.

What girl doesn’t love a classic Italian meal? A delicious spaghetti bolognese is always a good option, with hundreds of recipes that can allow you to give the classic meal a twist that accommodates everyone. Or create your own pizza, by simply buying some bases and a selection of toppings to make your own. You must include some classic sides, so why not go for some garlic flatbread, and even shape it like a heart to go that extra mile. To perfectly match your dinner, why not create a girly cocktail or mocktail? You can find numerous ideas online (Pinterest is my go-to!) of drinks that taste like Haribo hearts or Love Heart sweets. You can’t get much more girly Galentines than that!

As for entertainment, nothing beats watching a tear-jerking romance film with your best friends. You could always take a visit to your local cinema to watch the latest rom-com or enjoy a cosy night in, watching the old classics like The Notebook, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days or 50 First Dates.

Of course, having a night in allows for you and your friends to get comfortable with warm blankets, matching pyjamas, and snacks. Galentines simply wouldn’t be the same without some chocolate-coated strawberries to accompany your movie marathon. Decorating strawberries with your favourite chocolate and some colourful sprinkles (why not have some cute heart sprinkles as well), is not only fun, but is a tasty accompaniment to your night in.

Another sweet idea that you and your friends can look forward to on Galentines is a pamper evening. Treating each other to a facial whilst discussing the latest gossip is the ultimate quality time with your girls. Maybe even spend the day shopping together for some new skincare such as face masks or treatments for such a special occasion.

So, for your Galentines plans this year, what could go wrong with giving a fun night in with your girls a go? These ideas are a great foundation to enjoy your night, so get planning for your Galentines! words by: Carys Crandon design by: Mia Coley

Clebar

36

Cymru Yn C w t s h o

Cyfeillgarwch Cymreig, Unigryw ac Anghyffredin. Yn llawn hiraeth, diwylliant, a chariad, mae’r cwtsh yn adnabyddus fel symbol o gofal a chydberthynas yng Nghymru. Cyfuniad o air a theimlad, mae’r cwtsh yn unigryw i Gymru, yn gynrychioli’r hanes a’r perthynas agos rhwng pobl y wlad hon a’i gilydd. Yn y wlad hyfryd hon, mae gair arbennig sy’n tynnu sylw at ein hanian: ‘cwtsh’. Nid dim ond gair yw hwn, ond mae’n cynrychioli rhywbeth mwy; mae’n adlewyrchu tynerwch, caredigrwydd, ac agwedd agos at y calon. Mae’r gair hwn wedi dod yn nod o’r celfyddydau ac yn rhan hollbwysig o’n diwylliant yma yng Nghymru.

Mae’r cwtsh yn rhywbeth sy’n mynd y tu hwnt i gariad, a chrefft yw deall sut i roi un. Nid yw’n unig am gario rhywbeth, ond am rannu teimlad o gysur a chalon. Pan fyddwch chi’n cwtchio gyda rhywun, nid ydych chi’n gwneud dim ond ymgasglu, rydych chi’n creu byrgyr o gariad ac amddiffynfa rhag flinder.

Beth sy’n gwneud y cwtsh mor arbennig i Gymru? Efallai ei fod yn dod o’r ffaith fod pobl Cymru wedi dysgu sut i werthfawrogi’r angen am gysur mewn amseroedd anodd.

Mae’n rhan annatod o’r profiad Cymreig, gan gysylltu pobl o bob cefndir a dosbarth cymdeithasol. Nid yw’r cwtch yn rhywbeth sy’n digwydd dim ond rhwng cariadon, mae’n brofiad agored i bawb sy’n teimlo’r angen am gefnogaeth a chariad.

Mae’n atgoffa pobl am y cysylltiad agos sy’n nodweddiadol o Gymru. Nid dim ond gweithred, ond profiad dwfn o gymuned, gan dynnu i’r amlwg werthoedd cymdeithasol a chariad. Ynghyd â’r iaith, mae’r cwtch yn wahanol, yn grynhoi ysbryd cymunedol, gan adlewyrchu’r tynerwch sy’n gwneud Cymru’n lle unigryw.

Mae Cymru’n lle o hanes, traddodiad, a chyfeillgarwch. Ac mae’r cwtsh yn nodweddiadol o’n diwylliant, yn cynrychioli cyfalaf cymdeithasol a chydberthynas agos. Felly, pan fyddwch chi’n clywed gair ‘cwtsh’, cofiwch nad dim ond gair yw hwn, ond tystiolaeth o’r teimlad cynnes sy’n gwneud Cymru yn wlad unigryw. ysgrifenwyd gan: Bethan Rocke

Yn debyg i’r term ‘Hiraeth’, does yna ddim un cyfieithiad uniongyrchol i’r term ‘cwtch’ neu ‘cwtsho’. Gwbl unigryw yw’r term i’r Cymry. Ond er hyn, oes yna fodd esbonio cwtsh? Cyfuniad yw’r term ‘cwtsh’ i raddau, o’r term ‘cofleidio’ y mae gweddill y byd yn ei gwneud a, ‘cwpwrdd’.

Ie cwpwrdd! Yn benodol, y safle diogel sy’n cael ei ganiatáu o fewn y cwpwrdd.

Trwy gyfuno’r ddau ystyr, gwelir fod ‘cwtsh’ yn cael ei esbonio i raddau, ond eto dyw’r esboniad byth yn golygu gwir ystyr ‘cwtsh’. Gwelir fod cwtsh yn darparu cysur, diogelwch a chariad llwyr i’r unigolion yng nglŵm a’r cofleidio sy’n cael ei gynnal.

Teimlaf ei fod yn hybu emosiwn pur at yr ymdeimlad cartrefol sy’n bodoli ymysg trigolion Cymraeg. Maent yn caniatáu cysur a gwelliant ar unwaith o unrhyw aelod o eich teulu neu ffrindiau, sy’n amlygu’r cariad llwyr heb ddiwedd sy’n bodoli ar draws Cymru.

Gwelir bod y weithred yn cymhwyso pob milltir sgwâr Cymru, bob gair o fewn yr iaith Gymraeg sy’n cael ei drafod, a’r holl hanes sydd wedi’u harwain at y genhedlaeth bresennol yn darparu cwtsh gyda’i gilydd. Felly, mae’n wir. Mae cwtsh yn cael ei ddeall ac yn ei gwerthfawrogi gan y Cymry Cymraeg. ysgrifenwyd gan: Caitlin Griffiths darluniwyd gan: Alanya Smith

Clebar

37

Caerdydd Cartrefol

darluniwyd gan: Mia Wilson

Os ydych chi wedi dod o bell i astudio ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd neu awr i ffwrdd, dwi’n siwr eich bod chi dal i fethu cael cwtsh gan eich annwyliaid yn achlysurol.

Efallai eich bod yn teimlo bod rhaid ichi ddod o hyd i bethau sydd yn eich gwneud chi’n gartrefol yn y brifysgol er mwyn teimlo yn gartrefol. Dyma rhai o bethau mae eich cyd-fyfyrwyr yn gwneud i sicrhau bod nhw’n gallu ail greu’r teimlad o gael cwtsh yn y brifysgol.

Er mwyn ymgorffori’r fersiwn gorau o fy hun, mae’n rhaid imi deimlo’n gartrefol, yn enwedig pan yn y Brifysgol.

Dwi’n ceisio gwneud hyn drwy amrywiaeth o bethau sydd yn dod â phleser i mi. Gall hyn amrywio o dreulio amser gyda ffrindiau da at weithgareddau hunanofal.

Nid yw teimlo’n gartrefol yn golygu lle penodol i mi, ond teimlad cryf o berthyn rhwng pobl a’r syniad o fod yn gysurus, lle bynnag yr ydwyf.

Yn gyntaf dwi’n hoff o amgylchynu fy hun efo adnoddau sy’n atgoffa fi o fy ngwreiddiau adref. Mae hyn i weld yn glir yn fy stafell’ efo fframiau o luniau teuluol pan oeddwn yn blentyn. Yn ogystal â thedis fy mhlentyndod sydd wedi teithio gyda mi i’r ddinas fawr o adref.

Gall dynwared y teimlad o ofal ag agosatrwydd yn y cartref teuluol helpu llawer wrth setlo mewn i’r brifysgol. Mae eistedd wrth y bwrdd a bwyta prydiau gyda ffrindiau yn adlewyrchu’r teimlad o gysylltu. Mae dod at ein gilydd i chwarae gemau bwrdd neu i wylio ffilm yn sicrhau’r teimlad yma hefyd.

Os dwi wedi cael diwrnod gwael neu fod rhywbeth wedi mynd o’i le, dwi bob tro yn ceisio gwneud fy hun i deimlo’n ymlaciedig trwy weithgareddau hunanofal.

Does ddim teimlad gwell na ddod adref, rhoi ‘facemask’ ymlaen, gwrando ar gerddoriaeth ac ymlacio gyda ffrindiau da, ymysg adnoddau cartrefol fel fy nhedis! ysgrifenwyd gan: Ffion Wyn Jones Dwi’n fy mlwyddyn olaf yn astudio ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd ac felly rydw i wedi dod yn gyfarwydd â fy arferion i deimlo’n gartrefol yn bell o adref. Mae’r arferion yma bellach wedi fy ngalluogi i greu cartref oddi wrth fy nghartref!

Mae’r Gymraeg yn rhan o fy hunaniaeth ac felly mae ymwneud a’r iaith yn fy ngwneud i’n gartrefol ble bynnag ydwyf. O ganlyniad dwi’n rhan o gymdeithas y Gym Gym ac rydym ni’n cymdeithasu bob pythefnos ac yn mynychu’r Ddawns a’r Eisteddfod Rhynggolegol. Dwi’n edrych ymlaen at fis Mawrth i gystadlu

yn y chwaraeon a’r cystadlaethau llwyfan yn Abertawe.

Yn ogystal, mae’r Gym Gym yn mynd ar daith chwe gwlad i Ddulyn ddiwedd Chwefror ac mi fydd hynny yn hwyl! Mae ymwneud â’r gymdeithas wedi galluogi imi wneud ffrindiau sydd hefyd yn ymfalchïo yn y Gymraeg. Awgrymaf yn gryf eich bod chi’n ymuno â chymdeithas sy’n darparu gweithgareddau sy’n bwysig i chi oherwydd byddwch chi’n gallu dod o hyd i gydfyfyrwyr sydd â’r un diddordebau â chi!

Wrth gwrs fel myfyriwr prifysgol mae’r hangovers yn rhan o’r profiad. Wrth ichi ‘hangofera’, mae gwneud gweithredoedd hunanofal, self-care, yn gymorth mawr i deimlo ychydig yn llai sori drosoch chi eich hun.

Gallwch chi roi cerddoriaeth drist ymlaen fel Tom Odell a rhoi face masks ymlaen gyda’ch ffrindiau. Gallwch chi hefyd fynd am wâc i Bute neu i Roath i gael awyr iach. Yn olaf, dwi’n aml yn ffonio adref neu gysylltu gyda fy ffrindiau sydd ym mhrifysgolion eraill. ysgrifenwyd gan: Beca Dalis Williams Dw i ddim wir yn gallu rhoi ateb pendant i’r cwestiwn yma! I fod yn onest, dwi’n gallu teimlo’n gartrefol yn unrhyw le cyn belled a bod ffrindiau da o nghwmpas i.

Rwy’n gallu teimlo yr un mor gartrefol tra yn y Brifysgol yng nghanol dinas ag ydw i pan fydda i yn mynd i Ben Llyn i weld fy Nain, sydd yn byw mewn lle sy’n gallu bod yn reit unig. Y rheswm dwi’n deud hyn ydi mai pobl ac nid llefydd sydd yn bwysig i mi. Fel un sy’n dod o Aberystwyth, mae gweld y mor a bod yn agos i’r mor yn fy ngwneud i deimlo’n gartrefol iawn. Dyna un peth dwi’n hoffi ei wneud pan dwi’n mynd adre yn ystod wythnosau darllen neu wyliau yw mynd i gerdded neu mynd i redeg ar hyd y prom er mwyn gweld y mor. Un peth arall sydd yn fy ngwneud yn gartrefol pan dwi adre ydi gallu mynd yn fy nghar am dro i weld ffrindiau neu deulu, neu fynd a’r ci am dro neu fynd i gerdded gyda fy nheulu pan mae pawb adre.

Pan fyddaf yn mynd i weld fy nheulu yn y Gogledd, neu fwynhau cwmni ffrindiau, rwy’n teimlo fy mod yn gallu ymlacio a chael hwyl wrth fod y neu cwmni. Ar adegau fel hyn dydi o ddim yn gwneud gwahaniaeth i mi lle ydw i. Cyn belled a bod gen i gwmni da dwi’n teimlo’n gartrefol, ond dwi’n hoffi fy nghwmni fy hun hefyd ar adegau! Felly does gen i ddim un man na pheth sydd yn fy ngwneud i deimlo’n gartrefol, ffrindiau a chwmni da sy’n bwysig i mi. ysgrifenwyd gan: Llyr Eirug Beth ydych chi’n ei wneud i deimlo’n gartrefol?

Clebar

38

Yn y rhifyn yma, mae Cadi Williams angen cau ei chlebar!

1. Beth yw dy enw? Cadi Gwen Williams 2. Beth mae dy ffrindiau yn dy alw di? Cadi 3. O ble wyt ti’n dod? Aberystwyth 4. Tri gair i ddisgrifio dy hun? caredig, cydwybodol a chymdeithasol 5. Pa gwrs wyt ti’n ei hastudio ac ym mha flwyddyn wyt ti? Cymraeg a Newyddiaduraeth - Bl 2 6. Ble byddwn ni’n debygol o ddod o hyd i ti ar nos Sadwrn? Clwb Ifor Bach 7. Beth yw dy ‘hangover cure’? mynd am wac 8. Hoff beth am ddinas Caerdydd? y cymdeithasu 9. Beth yw dy ‘go to drink’ ar nosweth allan? vodka lemonade 10. Hoff beth am fod yn Gymro/Cymraes? teimlad cryf o berthyn 11. Beth yw un arferiad gwael sydd gennyt ti? ddim yn stopio gwario pan does gen i ddim arian 12. ’Tip’ byddech chi’n rhoi i fyfywiwr blwyddyn gyntaf? byddwch eich hunan bob amser 13. Beth yw un cyfrinach sydd gennyt ti? dwi’n gallu bod yn berson anniben iawn!

14. Hoff gân? Coedwig ar dân 15. Pwy sydd angen cau eu clebar erbyn tro nesaf?

Llyr Eirug

darluniwyd gan: Mia Wilson

Spotlight When you Google the phrase ‘nesting season’ you are met with a tumult of information about bird nesting, animal mating habits, and the best ways to give the wildlife in your back garden a home for the winter. Add in a couple more keywords- ‘human’ being one of them-and the all-knowing internet still comes up short. Cue the panic as I realise, I’m trying to research a topic that doesn’t exist. I start desperately trying to think of some other way to phrase the concept I’m trying to get across to the computer, whilst I’m getting increasingly frustrated. (I think it’s safe to say that IT is not my strong point... don’t judge, ok? We all know that you would’ve probably gotten there quicker than me, so I’m owning my ineptness). Trying a different tack, I think about the different platforms for online research, and tag ‘Instagram’ onto the end of the phrase. Bingo.

Turns out, January may be the start of nesting season for our local birds, but it also marks the beginning of when we social creatures turn towards each other for support and warmth in a time that can be depressing, lonely, and cold. After the excitement and bustle of the holiday season and New Year’s celebrations catapult us into the depths of winter, many of us can begin to feel overwhelmed by the previously full social calendars suddenly coming to a halt. This, combined with the cold weather, limited daylight hours and the increasing pressure to run a marathon on our long list of New Year’s resolutions, leads to what is mostly commonly known as the ‘January blues’. Although January is supposed to start the year with the prospect of exciting new beginnings, it is not uncommon for people to feel lethargic, depressed and pressured to conform to the unrealistic ideals presented to them on social media.

Although the practice of making New Year’s resolutions began around 4000 years ago, social media has accentuated the drive for a new year full of “selfimprovement” in the form of diets, exercise routines and extreme undertakings. Nesting season may be a social media hashtag used to accompany colourful renovations of influencers’ already Pinterest-worthy homes, but I believe it also has a deeper and more grounded meaning. Namely, the need to be around loved ones and give ourselves some TLC in the colder months, when our serotonin and vitamin D levels may be as low as the temperature outside.

These are just some of the reasons why we tend to focus on our relationships and evaluate our inner selves during the winter. Outdoor social activities are also in short supply

39

Nesting Season

at this time of year, which often leads to increased anxiety and loneliness- creating a desire for steady relationships, both romantically and platonically, as a way of boosting our mood and providing security until the warmer months arrive.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a well-researched phenomenon experienced by millions of people each winter, occurring due to our circadian clocks being altered by changing light levels – which in turn influences hormone production and mood. However, studies have shown that, despite the colder weather detrimentally impacting our mental health, our brain functioning is sharper than usual. These factors manifest a desire to focus on our potential and pre-existing relationships, as well as self-improvement and self-care.

However, I think this is what New Year’s resolutions should be aboutsmall achievements that are realistic and make positive steps towards building healthy habits that better the quality of your own life. I’m not saying “don’t run a marathon” if that’s something that you want to do -I think it’s an amazing thing to achieve. I’m just saying, try not to get caught up in the toxic influx of social media posts toting the next fad diet, or make unrealistic goals you are not ready for, that will get you stuck in a cycle of self-criticism when not achieved.

The negative construct of the nesting season may dominate our media streams, but maintaining a positive mindset by focusing on the parts of ourselves we feel good about and acknowledging what we’d like to change calmly and carefully. By following up with some realistic and healthy goal setting, we will be much more productive in fostering long-term healthy habits, improving mental well-being, and being kinder to ourselves at a challenging time in the yearly calendar. words by: Rhiannon James design by: Alanya Smith photography by: Jiacheng Liu

Spotlight

40

Intercultural Relationships:

The Beauty

I never thought I’d date an English girl. That was, until one fateful night at Liveys in December 2022 (during which I was fittingly dressed as Jesus). After a Christmas period of incessant messaging, and a few dates, my worst fears were confirmed – I had an English girlfriend! Jokes aside, I was excited to share with her all the best aspects of Welsh culture. With sports being very important to me, taking her to watch Wales play football at the Cardiff City Stadium was a highlight of my summer last year, despite the hammering from Armenia which left our Euro qualification dreams in tatters. The buzzing concourse of the stadium before the game was a sea of red, with a wave of Cymreictod, or Welshness, washing over us as we stood for the rousing national anthem, which was sure to stir the heart of any listener, Welsh or not. But such is the nature of being Welsh – we are a welcoming people with a love for singing! The summer also meant a trip to my hometown of Aberystwyth, coming with a choice of beaches, and immersion into West Wales life! This meant introducing my girlfriend to Welsh phrases which I’d commonly use with my family – as despite my dad being brought up speaking exclusively Welsh, we speak mostly English at home with the odd Welsh phrase thrown in! This proved no problem, and we now incorporate Welsh language greetings into our every day, with “Nos da” replacing “Goodnight” and our mornings starting with a cheeky “Bore da”.

Winter rolling around meant only one thing – that it was time for me to introduce her to cawl – or Welsh stew, consisting of beef (traditionally lamb) and vegetables (including leeks!). Respecting our two cultures, we have also decided to celebrate both St. Valentine’s Day as well as the Welsh counterpart, Dydd Santes Dwynwen on the 25th of January.

While not as stark as some, there are distinct cultural differences between England and Wales, but we don’t let these come between us (until the Six Nations start!), and it has been a pleasure to incorporate both into our relationship. words by: Will Davies

Shared My boyfriend is Welsh, raised by a tangentially Irish mother and a British father. I am Barbadian, raised by a British mother and a Barbadian father. Both of us are missing the accents that denote where we came from, his voice would place him somewhere in the midlands, and he insists that I sound more American than anything else. There are parts of Welsh culture that are clearly represented in him, like an insistence that I try homemade Welsh cakes, and a handful of Welsh words he learned in high school. Just as there is a Caribbean twinge in me, in the way I become almost incomprehensible when I am angry, or how I will make peppermint tea for any ailment and expect it to perform miracles. However, neither of us are accurate representations of our respective cultures, so I have never considered how we share them with each other. It has such a broad definition that I feel entitled to make my own: I honestly believe culture is ephemeral, it doesn’t have actions so much as it has spaces. It’s your world. You experience this, experience them, by seeing where they’ve been. I feel like Waterloo Gardens is a part of his culture because it is so near where he grew up and he’s walked through it so many times. Maybe it’s more akin to Welsh culture when daffodils are sprouting up from the ground, but it’s his culture regardless. When I frame it this way, he is always sharing his culture with me, because I live in his city.

I show him my culture through photographs. When I go home, I drive around and attempt to capture every inch of my world with a camera lens. Occasionally there is socca playing in the background of a video but it’s less representative of me than this one cliff where the Atlantic breaks on land. I show him the flatbed trucks full of coconuts on the side of the highway, and then men with machetes that hack them open for the water. I look forward to the day I can share my culture with him the same way he shares his with me. words by: Alanna Wilson-Patrick ‘Sabine’ design by: Eszter Gurbicz

Spotlight

41

Afraid to Give A Cwtch The Stigma Surrounding Platonic Affection Among Men The spectrum of human relationships, interactions and social intimacy is grounded in the intricate stigmas of social norms embedded upon us by society. From the very moment, we are born, throughout adolescence until our present experiences, human affection and intimacy are displayed through countless forms of expression: Love, appreciation, gratitude, relief, and consolement. Interaction is what makes us human, we are a social species that thrives through togetherness. Yet, society as we know it is rooted in the implications of both stereotypes and conformations of the stigmas surrounding ‘gender binaries’ and what defines masculinity and femininity through said stereotypes. So, what are these stigmas and what are the consequences of them when it comes to showing forms of intimacy, whether platonic or not?

When considering the stigma around masculinity, society has enforced the stereotype that men should be stoic, avoiding public displays of affection in fear or showing a vulnerability that may be seen as emasculating, especially amongst male peers. This stigma may have severe consequences on mental health and the ability of a man to open up to others, especially within close friendships. Therefore, when considering platonic friendships, men are often either afraid to show this human side of vulnerability, or so used to avoiding intimacy such as hugging, that it is entirely out of the question. These traits may also carry over into romantic relationships, limiting public displays of affection. Of course, the same thing cannot be said for all men. More recently, this stigma seems to be changing, with more men encouraging displays of affection more generally, especially through visual media such as the television industry, and campaigns like men’s mental health foundations.

Growing into ‘manhood’ myself, I have experienced friendships where I have noticed these social restrictions. For example, when someone I am close to has been afraid to simply hug another friend or ‘cwtch’ into one another when having to share a bed at a sleepover. Adolescence truly brings forth this stigma in real-life situations. Opposingly, I have also seen men break this ideal outrightly, being overly affectionate and using humour as a light-hearted method to cwtch with one another, both publicly and in more private environments.

Then, of course, there is also the typical and falsely encouraged correlation, enforced by some, that men showing displays of affection is ‘gay’ or ‘feminine’. From a first-hand viewpoint as a gay man, I can speak from experience that this stigma is harmful to both straight men and those who identify as LGBTQ+. There is no correlation between sexuality and platonic intimacy. A man can express physical affection to another person, regardless of their gender identity, shared or not, without such factors interlapping. I can’t count how many times throughout my life I have heard someone say the phrase “That’s gay” when another man goes to display any form of physical interaction with another man, as I’m sure you have experienced too.

I suppose the moral of the story is: give your friend a hug! Enjoy each other’s company and express your appreciation for them.

Life is too short to live in fear of stereotypes and stigmas. In acknowledgement of an ironic phrase that I so personally hate, I dare to reclaim it for the better – ‘Man Up’ and give a cwtch. words by: Sam Davies While the stigmatisation of showing platonic affection applies to individuals of all genders, it is particularly important to address this issue within male communities. Societal expectations and cultural norms often discourage men from expressing vulnerability or seeking affectionate touch with others, furthering the notion that physical intimacy is primarily reserved for women and children.

This can lead to a significant lack of affectionate touch for men, causing them to suffer silently from the consequences of ‘skin hunger’. The engraved discourse of toxic masculinity in our public spaces has ultimately starved men to show their true emotions, as it is seen as too ‘feminine’ or ‘gay’. As a child growing up, I heard the word ‘gay’ being thrown about so casually between boys who showed too much vulnerability or physical touch, almost becoming embedded in young people’s everyday vocabulary. I never understood this concept and almost began to create my own assumptions surrounding male stereotypes, based on hearing this phrase, as it just became so normalised. When I grew up, I realised the toxicity around this.

The result of this narrative is that men have become afraid to touch their male friends, fearing both internal and external homophobia, and ridicule. They are also afraid that touching another person, regardless of gender, may be perceived as sexual. Breaking the stigma surrounding male affection and encouraging open conversations about the importance of touch is crucial. Men should be empowered to seek and embrace affectionate touch without fear of judgment or questioning their masculinity. This can involve creating healthy environments that encourage platonic touch among friends and creating safe spaces where men can express their need for physical connection.

These damaging ideologies have been built into our societal norms; however, they seem to be an exclusively Western issue.

Some other cultures use the notion of physical touch as a way to showcase their love. Many Eastern cultures see no problem with male platonic touch, and how the dynamics of those friendships have grown as a result. So why are men here in the UK still struggling so much with the stigma around showing platonic affection?

As time goes on and old assumptions die out, our culture will grow and reach a point where we’ll see two guys show affection through touch and we won’t automatically perceive them to be gay. Instead, we’ll think of how healthy norms of behaviour are beginning to replace the old toxic ways. words by: Holly Beaumont design by: Alanya Smith

Culture

Embracing the Roots: The Forgotten History of the Practice of Tree Hugging The practice of tree hugging has been overshadowed by the media’s coverage of civil resistance environmentalists’ protests such as the Just Stop Oil campaigns. It has overtaken the traditional and smaller-scale environmental justice movements - but what are the origins of this movement?

In the whimsical world of Dr Seuss, the loveable orange lump of the Lorax strongly quotes “I speak for the trees. I speak for the trees, for the trees have no tongues”. Whilst seemingly fantastical, the popular childhood favourite film bestows a powerful meaning and sentiment as the storyline delves into the essence of protecting trees and our world before it is too late. The Lorax, a furry and friendly environmentalist, emphasises that trees are important living beings, highlighting our important role and the responsibility that we have to protect our planet.

Today, as ever, the topic of climate change is hotly contested with G20 summits’ socio-economic promises and a strong will to protect the planet in a multitude of different ways. The cultural and often derogatory stereotyping of environmental activists and campaigners can be attributed to the media’s documentation of the unpredictable series of civil protests from the environmental group Just Stop Oil. This representation of environmentalists is relatively new, being founded in early 2022.

Last year, the Just Stop Oil protests took a far different approach to the peace and love movement that was

popularised by 60s environmentalists. The protests included staging sit-ins in roads during peak times invoking frustration in daily commuters, and gaining the movement much media attention. Just recently in the UK, two protestors appeared in court for disrupting the World Snooker Championships demanding the UK government to end new oil and gas licences. As well as this, 16 were arrested after protesting outside Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s home. This gained heavy media attention and sparked outrage in the press.

Potentially tarnished by the bright orange gestures of ‘Just Stop Oil’, environmentalists get a bad rep for being selfrighteous Greta Thunberg loyalists, branded as hippies, granola-crunchers and tree-hugging woke lefties who are

43 work to battle the harmful emissions that we exude into the atmosphere more and more every day. Factually speaking they are some of the oldest living beings that exist and will outlive us without a doubt. More in-depth scientific research has highlighted the positive effects of spending time around trees. Not only can it reduce stress, improve immunity and lower blood pressure but the act of hugging a tree has been found to induce the release of oxytocin, the hormone associated with bonding and well-being. A feelgood emotion associated with happiness that is positively charged enough to give us energy and keep anxiety at bay.

Although the scientific reasoning and the importance of trees were not something ingrained into the Native Americans, they still held trees in high regard. They placed high importance on paying respect to the trees and sought for a closeness to gain the wisdom and greatness that they would ritually worship for. Specifically, the First Nations tribes of Iroquois and Hopi had deeply rooted beliefs in the power of the Earth and linking themselves with the Earth in mind, sound, body. In regard to this, it was used as a symbol, a powerful gesture in the defence of the land resource exploitation and against the privatisation of their homes and the wild plains by settlers. The tribes would often find themselves at war with the settlers who industrialised their lands and chopped down their precious trees. The tribes were true environmental activists in every sense and being; they sought peaceful protection of the earth and nurtured the trees, making them feel loved through a hug.

The occasional battle and war with the settlers was their self-determined way of protecting their land. Nevertheless, tree hugging symbolises more than a desire to connect with the natural world; it represents a cultural reverence for the environment that has been passed down through generations and internationally practised.

occasionally vegan. But the origins of environmentalists are far from these stereotypes.

To pay close attention to the origins of the first environmentalists we go across the Atlantic to America.

Before its commercialisation, colonial battles and Trump, the land of the free was the home to the Native Indigenous tribes and the sense of environmentalism. They placed specific importance on protecting the Earth which was part of their traditional beliefs. The tribes thrived off cultivating the land and surviving on the produce they would grow; the only thing that would happily coexist alongside them were the trees! But why should we reflect on trees today?

Well, they give us paper and they are hard workers that

As we move forward with environmental activism, whatever method we may choose, it is crucial to remember and value these culturally significant pieces of history. This rightfully ensures they are not erased by media spotlight pieces overshadowed by protests and a poor reflection on “Saving the Environment”. Only by understanding and preserving these roots, mind the pun, can we truly appreciate the importance of tree hugging and its contribution to a harmonious coexistence within the natural world.

It’s not something that I’m sure you’d find most of us doing in Bute Park during exam and deadline season, but given the research, it’s enough to see why the practice of tree hugging is a holistic and therapeutic experience for some.

It’s also important to pay tribute to the Native Americans and respect their culture and traditional beliefs and practices. So go on, cwtch a tree. words by: Camille Valere design and illustration by: Elinor Pyman

Culture

44

Post-Pandemic Hugs The Era of Awkward Hugs Touch is a vital part of human communication, and the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 inevitably created an invisible barrier to intimacy. A touch on the back to let someone walk past you, or to squeeze when you’re afraid – physical contact can say so much more than words. Without it, relationships can be impacted and intimacy has been put on pause.

After being confined in our little bubbles for months, societal norms began to shift as we lost control of everyday practices; until it was stripped away, we didn’t appreciate our freedom over ordinary activities, such as walking wherever we wanted or meeting up with friends. I began to lose basic communication skills with others, not knowing how close I could be to others or if I could even talk to them. So, when all the restrictions were lifted, it felt like we had entered a new abnormal reality, and finally being able to speak and see others felt like an alienating experience.

And so emerged the now constant questioning of “are we able to hug?”.

I grew up in a household where showing physical affection to others was normalised and was always polite to greet someone with a hug or a handshake. So, when we were told that these basic gestures were now prohibited, it felt like we had lost basic connectivity to other people. With hugging being off the cards for so long, I was surprised to find myself filled with awkwardness by the touchy-feely nature of the once normal act of affection. It has now made me consider how many times I, too, may have invaded someone’s personal space with an unwanted hug.

When the Prime Minister announced that we could once again hug our friends and family from Monday 17 May 2021 – a sentence previously unimaginable a few months

ago, yet even more bizarre to our 2019 selves – it felt like one more step towards our post-Covid recovery. After over a year without touch, many of us have realised just how much we once took embracing loved ones for granted. Obviously, I was so excited to hug my best friends and family members again. However, breaking the awkward and unnatural distance we’ve enforced for so many months felt so unnatural that I held back. I felt restrained by this lack of freedom most when I ran into friends in public spaces. With our safety reliant on keeping a physical distance, my anxieties about touch dominated my mind. Hugging and casual contact, for the time being, remain socially unacceptable. But now when I greet someone who isn’t in my circle, I no longer know if I should greet with a physical gesture such as hugging or a handshake or completely abandon all physical intimacy.

The invisible social distancing created between people has never truly gone away since COVID-19, with people engulfed in a pervasive sense of questioning what is deemed socially acceptable. Just as the pandemic has highlighted our human need for physical interaction, hasn’t it also helped us re-evaluate the importance of physical boundaries? With all the disheartening that COVID has caused, restrictions have also re-introduced us to the idea of personal space, from not sitting right next to someone on a train unless you have to, to respecting their boundaries and stepping aside as they pass you in the street. Now, we are left with a growing stigmatisation surrounding showing physical intimacy to others and if it is socially appropriate in our current postCovid world. words by: Holly Beaumont design by: Alanya Smith

Cwtch cwtch

[Ku•tch] Verb 1. To cuddle, hug or show affection to a loved one, sharing a sense of warmth and security.

2. A cwtch is synonymous with the spirit and identity of Wales.

Also written as ‘Cwtsh’.

photography by: Mia Wilson

photography by: Adam Breen

Tan tro nesaf.