Iceni Magazine Norfolk Issue 118

Ford Fiesta Review

Feel Good February

Body-Care

Throughout Your Divorce

Journaling And How It Can

Help Your Mental Health

"Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if one only remembers to turn on the light."Albus Dumbledore.

Welcome to Issue 118 of Iceni Magazine!

This month, the magazine focuses on Mental Health. Learn more about journaling and the ways in which it can support your mental health (Pages 36 & 37).

For a quick endorphins boost, check out the tips on Page 38. Susan Leigh shares her advice for protecting your mental health whilst going through a divorce (Pages 30 & 31).

Elsewhere in this month’s magazine, head to pages 18 and 19 to check out Tim Barnes-Clay's review of the popular, soon-to-be defunct Ford Fiesta. Keri Beevis reflects on one of her 2023’s resolutions, dry January (Page 15).

Page 22 brings us a selection of Nova Silver’s offerings for February, the month of love. Don’t forget to have a go at solving our Cromer-related anagrams (Page 43) for your chance to win an Iceni Magazine pen.

Until March, we wish you a warm and healthy Februaryenjoy all that this issue has to offer!

used or reproduced either in whole or part, online or in print. The views and advice from contributors are not necessarily those of Iceni

Limited. Every effort is made to ensure the contents are accurate, however Iceni Magazine Limited can not assume responsibility for errors, omissions or incorrect information. Iceni Magazine Limited accepts no liability for loss, damage or difficulties resulting from contracts between The Client and their customer. Inclusion within the magazine does not imply a recommendation.

The Benjamin Foundation

For over 25 years, children, young people and families across Norfolk and Suffolk have been supported by The Benjamin Foundation to overcome big challenges in their lives.

Each night, we accommodate up to 200 vulnerable young people, equating to over 50,000 safe nights’ sleep a year. They can finally feel safe from youth homelessness.

Each week, 230 young people access our emotional wellbeing support improving their mental health, increasing their self-esteem to finally feel understood.

Each year, over 400 young people attend our youth work in the community to gain new life skills, expand their horizons and finally feel confident. We are proud to have supported over 3,100 children, young people and families in 2021-22.

For more information visit: https://benjaminfoundation.co.uk/

Could You Open Your Heart And Home?

We are asking local people to join our ‘Heart and Home’ service to offer young people in Norfolk a home and support by becoming a Host with our charity.

Claire Overton from The Benjamin Foundation explains: “Hosts offer a bedroom, support and understanding to young people, who are often aged between 16 and 18 but may be older, to provide them with stability and a safe place to live. Many young people may benefit far more from a home-like environment and the support of a family or individual than from a more formal environment, such as a hostel. With an increase in need for safe homes for young people who may not have had the best start in life, we are reaching out for people to join our Heart and Home service as a Host for a young person in need.”

Claire continues: “We work closely with hosts, agencies and local authorities to provide the young people with the support they need to become independent. This includes supporting them to learn life skills, such as cooking, shopping and budgeting, as well as supporting their education, training and career before they move on to independent living.”

Training, support payments and ongoing guidance is available for those who join our Host network.

Janet (we have changed her name) says: “Hosting a young person has enriched my life with love, fun, laughter, knowledge of different food, music, dances, games, culture etc and I would not swap this for the world!”

Could you become a Heart and Home host?

Contact The Benjamin Foundation for further information on 01603 886930 or email heartandhome@benjaminfoundation.co.uk

It’s Game On To #Endyouthhomelessness

We are proud to collaborate with End Youth Homelessness and other EYH member charities across the UK to bring you Gaming for Good 2023!

Gaming for Good promotes gaming as a platform to speak up about mental health, while fundraising for youth homelessness. Last year’s campaign raised a fantastic £40K for vulnerable young people. We are now looking for individuals, groups, gaming communities and venues to get involved with Gaming for Good 2023 to help #endyouthhomelessness and promote positive emotional wellbeing for young people.

Whether you wish to hold a gaming tournament, live stream your gaming or host a classic games night or quiz there are lots of ways you can get involved! Visit our website to learn more: https://benjaminfoundation.co.uk/event/gaming-for-good-2023

Walsingham Abbey Snowdrop Walks Charity Day

A date for your diary! We are so excited to be chosen by Walsingham Abbey & The Shirehall Museum for their Snowdrop Walks Charity Day on Saturday 11th February.

It's a great place to enjoy nature and the great outdoors, and all are welcome to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Entry prices apply and all admissions from the day will be donated to our charity. Thank you Walsingham Abbey!

We will be there too, so come along, enjoy a lovely day out and come and say hi! You can even take part in our Photography Competition - visit our social media for more details!

More information: https://www.facebook.com/events/1375353089937104/?ref=newsfeed

Support Us In 2023

If you would like to support our charity this year by volunteering, donating or fundraising?

Please get in touch with our Fundraising Team on: events@benjaminfoundation.co.uk to hear all the ways you can be involved!

Redwings’ Oldest Pony Celebrates Her 45th Birthday!

Willow, a rescued Welsh pony, has celebrated a birthday milestone at Redwings Horse Sanctuary’s headquarters in Norfolk.

Willow turned 45 on Sunday 22nd January and her carers organised a party to mark the occasion. Colleagues from the care and veterinary teams came together to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ and give her a cake, made of horse feed, to enjoy.

Willow was 25 (already classed as a ‘veteran’) when she arrived at Redwings in 2003 with another pony, after they had been rescued as part of an operation carried out by the RSPCA. The pair had been used as broodmares on the Welsh Commons and had received very little handling. They were nervous of human interaction and in need of Redwings’ handling expertise.

Thanks to the time spent at the Sanctuary, Willow is now a sweet and gentle pony, who enjoyed the

fuss made of her by her carers during her party, which also involved celebratory banners and a special rosette!

Sarah Prior, Redwings veterinary surgeon, said: “Willow is such a special old lady, we had to mark her big birthday with a party! Even though she is our oldest pony she is in good health and, with careful management according to her age, she continues to thrive.

“As her teeth are old and worn, she is now one of our ‘no long fibre’ ponies which means she is not able to chew hay properly anymore. Instead, she is fed a special diet for senior horses consisting of regular, soft feeds which are delivered to Willow throughout the day, and even by our Nights team.

“She also has four-monthly dentals so we can look after her older teeth and is on medication to manage her arthritis and keep her comfortable.

Willow’s carers gather for her party

Plus, in the colder weather she is wearing a rug for a bit of extra protection from the elements.

“Beyond this routine care, she very rarely has to pay a visit to see us at the Horse Hospital, and she continues to enjoy life out in her paddock with some of our other golden oldies!”

Willow is the charity’s oldest resident by nine years, with retired Adoption Star Muffin the mule her junior at 36 years old.

Redwings’ mission to promote and provide lifelong good welfare for horses, ponies and donkeys sees the charity offer sanctuary homes to lots of veteran equines, many of which require specialist care as they get older.

This experience is shared in the charity’s ‘Sounds of the Sanctuary’ podcast series. The episode, ‘Field Notes: Caring for our Golden Oldies’, features an interview with Redwings’ Head of Sanctuary and Care Nicky Jarvis, who shares her knowledge and experiences - including that of caring for Willow - and is available to download from all major podcast players.

Redwings is entirely funded by donations. To help them continue to offer senior horses like Willow a safe and comfortable home, please visit redwings.org.uk/donating or call 01508 505246.

Willow enjoying her birthday cake

Willow wearing her brithday rosette

CHECK OUT OUR NEW RUNNING WEBSITE

RUNICENIRUN.COM

Spring Into A Garden Open For The National Garden Scheme

teas. 20 acres where paths wind through a watery landscape, slightly wild and wooded with an abundance of spring bulbs. Dogs on leads.

Sun 26th March Mannington Estate, NR11 7BB (11-4) Admission £6 Child free. Light Refreshments. 20-acres feature shrubs, lake and trees. The garden surrounds moated medieval manor. A special feature is the garden wildlife. Variety of trees and shrubs. Dogs on leads.

County organiser Julia Stafford Allen said “It can be so lovely to get outside at this time of year and these great gardens have opened for us for many years and we are so fortunate to have them in the Scheme.”

Three Spring gardens are opening across the county to support the National Garden Scheme charities during March.

The brightly coloured bulbs of spring are emerging ready for a splendid show for our garden visitors.

These early gardens offer opportunities to get out into the countryside, enjoy woodland walks, and a time to appreciate narcissus and all the other spring flowers, as well as that essential cup of tea and piece of cake.

Sat 18th March East Ruston Old Vicarage, NR12 9HN (12-5.30) Admission £13 Child £2. Light Refreshments. Variety and all year-round interest to explore in this amazing 32-acre exotic coastal garden.

Sun 26th March Gayton Hall, PE32 1PL (114.30) Admission £6 Child free. Home-made

Before visiting a garden, please check the website www.ngs.org.uk for up to date information.

Gayton Hall

New Year Resolutions

Regular readers of the Iceni Magazine may remember my past efforts at New Year Resolutions.

You know, the whole New Year, New Beev thing. For several years I attempted a number of goals, most of them revolving around stepping up my exercise and cutting down on how many calories I shove in my mouth.

I’ve had varying levels of success, from huffing and puffing my way up hills and trying not to look like I was about to collapse, to actually ending up in hospital because I tripped over my own feet. Yes, even they are a liability. And then of course there was the time I tried to exist on an ill-conceived diet of pickled gherkins. Possibly my smelliest idea ever.

Generally, by the middle of the month I am saying “enough”, and shoving a pizza in the oven or pouring a glass of wine to drown my sorrows.

Last year I didn’t bother with resolutions. ‘I will just learn to be happy fat,’ I told myself, forcing my boobs into my bra and trying to ignore the fact the back strap was trying to strangle me.

Unfortunately sitting on your bum all day while you write isn’t conducive to a healthy lifestyle and I had some very tight deadlines last year, which left little time for exercise. And ready meals became my go to, as I was often working late and forgetting I needed dinner.

My new publisher likes videos though and as much as I try to live in blissful ignorance, even I have noticed I have been gaining a new chin with each book release.

Something has to give and if it’s that damn bra strap, all hell is going to break loose. So, my friends, by

the time you read this column, I will have completed Dry January. Yes, you read it right. I have been alcohol free for 31 days.

Now normally when I am being deprived of the things I love, I moan A LOT. This time though I decided to just get on with it and hardly anyone knows. And surprisingly, I haven’t found it too tough. Yes there have been a few nights where I have craved a glass of wine, but I have remained strong and even though I am writing this with 9 days to go, I know I am not going to cave.

I do plan on drinking again in February. One of my favourite purchases last year was a drinks cabinet and there are a lot of dusty bottles inside with my name on them. I promise it will be in moderation though.

And for February my sister has persuaded me to do a skipping rope challenge with her. Beev plus big boobs plus lack of balance and coordination. What could possibly go wrong?

My next column might come to you from a hospital bed!

My new book ‘The Sleepover’ is available in kindle, paperback and audio format. The kindle copy can be purchased here

Above: Keri Beevis

Who Says You’re The Best?

How many businesses seem to be regularly posting self-congratulatory, ‘I’m the best, the only person who can help you’ posts on social media? I know I’m not alone in finding their tone selfindulgent and rather off-putting.

Conversations with friends and other business owners have confirmed that this excessive boasting and self-promotion from someone who’s essentially acting as a salesperson, claiming that their goods or services are the most superior option, is too much. Yes, we can scroll on by, but we may be deterred from feeling inclined to stop and buy.

Isn’t it less salesy for a business to display a little modesty and share what they have to offer or quietly post recommendations and comments from happy clients or customers?

Confidence and self-belief are all well and good but sometimes you can be left wondering if, with that much smugness, they should go and get a room! There’s a certain charm and relaxed confidence that emanates from someone who simply lays out their menu, invites you to have a relaxed conversation with them about how they can help and then lets you decide what suits you best.

There’s no doubt that everyone wants to buy the best. Some years back an advertising agency ran a campaign for cigarettes for ‘ordinary people’. It had no appeal, as the image cigarettesmoking adverts aim to convey is that of a glamourous lifestyle, elegant, the ultimate in cool. Unsurprisingly this ad campaign was unsuccessful and was quickly withdrawn.

As a counsellor and hypnotherapist, I’m all too aware that my clients need to feel confident in my ability to help them.

They need to know that I’m highly-trained, experienced and good at what I do, and I’m happy to reassure them that that’s the case. Most of my clients are recommendations and I have people travel from all over the country, even from overseas.

I’ve written books, regularly write articles for magazines and blogs, contribute to many BBC programmes, have weekly radio shows, am a hypnotherapy trainer, a speaker. There are many strings to my bow and that’s not a secret.

But I’m also aware that one size doesn’t fit all, and that whilst I receive lots of referrals from happy clients, what I provide doesn’t suit everyone.

One of the most impressive posts I’ve seen on social media recently was from a mortgage company who’d been nominated for an award. They posted a video and in it said that whilst they weren’t claiming to be the best, they certainly felt they’d earned the right to win the award because they worked very hard to do all they could for each and every client. They felt they deserved to be on the list, and others agreed because they won it!

Think about a restaurant menu. It describes the dishes on offer, references dietary requirements, promotes ‘specials’ and offers, but then leaves it to the customer to decide. The restaurant appreciates that what’s to one person’s taste may be unappealing to someone else. Yes, a customer may eat there regularly, and, as such be confidently directed to certain choices, but it works best to then leave it to the customer to decide. And, if they’re not happy with their choice, well that’s a discussion for another day.

Everyone has to eat, but not everyone will choose to eat the same food, at the same restaurant or even enjoy eating out. Similarly, in business, it’s important to remind people of your presence and what you have to offer, establish yourself as the ‘go-to-guy’ in your field, but equally remember that there are probably hundreds of people offering similar goods and services to yours. It’s the people, the individual relationships and customer experiences that are often the deciding factor.

Over-the-top, loud, pushy sales pitches on social media may work for some. They may get

the message across, but self-effacing is often far more attractive and compelling than the ‘I’m the greatest’ approach that so many seem to favour at the moment!

There are a variety of ways to connect with potential clients:

Blog posts offering top tips or ways to improve their business are often welcome, especially when they’re short, easy-to-read bullet points.

Use them to remind people of your worth. Don’t forget that whilst people may enthusiastically watch cooking programmes, they still look forward to dining out and having someone else cook for them!

A regular visual post, including a #tipoftheday or week can keep you in people’s line of sight and remind them that you’re around whenever they need you. Short videos and live streams are effective ways to highlight yourself and your personality.

Networking, physically attending meetings and maybe taking the opportunity to deliver a valuable business spotlight about your business is a good way to build and enhance relationships and prompt further conversation about ways you can help that are personally tailored to their requirements.

There are many effective ways to self-promote and it’s good to vary your approach.

Article By Susan Leigh

Susan Leigh, South Manchester counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor offers help with relationship issues, stress management, assertiveness and confidence. She works with individual clients, couples and provides corporate workshops and support. For more articles, information or to make contact please visit: http://www.lifestyletherapy.net

Ford Fiesta Review

Ford’s Fiesta is one of the best superminis, so all the more disappointing that Ford has recently announced it’s being discontinued.

It has recently had an update with a revised front end, including a more prominent grille and repositioned badge, as part of its mid-life facelift.

The ST-Line X trim is essentially the standard ST-Line grade with added spice.

Eighteen-inch alloys are included, along with sports suspension, sports seats, a rear roof spoiler, a touchscreen with SatNav, automatic temperature control, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, LED lights, electric door mirrors and a panoramic roof.

It is the mid-range 1.0-litre 125PS engine under the spotlight here, which, thanks to its mild hybridity, comes with a bigger turbo. While it’s nothing to get excited about regarding performance, it makes steady progress off the line, masking its small size. It even sounds halfdecent, too.

The seven-speed automatic (fitted in the car supplied for the appraisal) is smooth. However, changing down can be a bit sluggish when you press hard on the accelerator.

The handling is superb, thanks to a welltuned chassis, which delivers agility in spades due to tonnes of grip in the corners and excellent steering.

The Fiesta is great fun to drive - and, despite the sharp handling, it retains an excellent level of ride comfort, too.

Inside, the cabin is nice enough but a bit plain and too dark for my liking. It lacks the sophistication of some of its rivals, but at least it’s comfortable.

Headroom isn’t all that great in the Fiesta, but legroom in the front is plentiful for a small car. Those in the back will struggle if they’re above six feet, though.

The infotainment screen is easy to use, but it’s not a class-leading system and lacks the responsiveness of rivals.

You get 292 litres of boot space, more than some superminis but less than the Seat Ibiza. Cargo capacity expands to 1,093 litres with the back seats folded down. You’ll also get 50mpg out of it, with the hatchback producing 126g/km of CO2 in the process.

Overall, I really like the Ford Fiesta. There is no supermini quite like it to drive.

But if you want interior sophistication, equipment and practicality, alternative cars are worth considering.

Fast Facts - Ford Fiesta (1.0 MHEV STLine X 7-speed auto) as tested:

• Max speed: 124 mph

• 0-62 mph: 9.6 secs

• Fuel economy: 50.4 mpg

• Engine layout: 1.0-litre three-cylinder turbopetrol mHEV

• Max. power (PS): 125PS

• CO2: 126g/km

• Price: £25,755

By Tim Barnes-Clay. Follow on Instagram: @tbarnesclay

Dining Out: Colombo Street

Sri Lanka (previously known as Ceylon) is located in South Asia and is an island country in the Indian Ocean.

The largest city is Colombo, which is the financial centre, too.

Sri Lanka’s history can be traced back some 3000 years, with prehistoric settlements prior to that. Today, Sri Lanka is very much recognised as a developing country.

The tropical climate is warm. Prevailing winds, from the ocean, have a large effect on

the temperatures, The cuisine of Sri Lanka holds a lot of interest for many and includes extremely popular curry and rice dishes, amongst others.

I located Colombo Street Restaurant & Bar in Nottingham and they were very proud to show me their authentic cuisine, including products and spices imported from Sri Lanka. The menu lists starters, main dishes, side staples, curries, stir-fries, plus rotis, rice and more.

For a starter I chose DEVILLED CHICKEN DELIGHT (Stir-fried with homemade sweet and sour sauce, chilli paste, plus pineapple, peppers and onion). A grand commencement to the dining experience, with very good flavours, in abundance.

For main I selected GALLE FACE ROTI (Gothamba Roti (2) and Egg Roti served with tempered Seeni Sambal, plus a choice of main curries, that included Coco Chicken, Spicy Jackfruit, Southern Fish and others).

I opted for NEGOMBO PRAWN CURRY and added a side of DHAL (Red split lentils cooked in spices and coconut milk). Together, these selections made an impressive combination, with the complementing flavours being perfectly balanced and all having excellent presentations - Compliments to Chef. Head Chef, Jagath, with the team, take a great amount of pride in the cooking and presentation of dishes, to make most memorable dining occasions.

My option for dessert settled on CHOCOLATE BISCUIT PUDDING (Layers of chocolate and cinnamon mousse between buttery biscuits). This Sri Lankan home classic delectation made a delicious and splendid ending, to a really great meal.

Wines/drinks include Sri Lankan productions. Collections and deliveries, plus outside catering, for events and occasions, are also available.

Thank you to Suwani, for exemplary service throughout.

An excellent recommendation.

Colombo Street Restaurant & Bar, 2 - 4 Adam’s Walk, Fletcher Gate, Nottingham NG1 1QS. Tel: 0115 648 5608

As always, Enjoy!

Review By Trevor Langley

The Month Of Love

It’s almost Valentine’s Day again, the perfect time to show your love to someone.

Whether that is a family member, a friend or a loved one! Here at Nova Silver, we’d love to give you all some ideas on what to gift this year!

Not only is Amber a gorgeous stone, it also has many meanings and properties. This includes guidance through love and relationships. Amber is said to help you develop more patience and understanding of your partner, stopping you losing your temper and getting annoyed as quick.

This stone is also said to get rid of jealousy and insecurities, removing any lack of trust and fear you have. Amber is used to eliminate fears, negative energies, soothe body aches as well as acquire patience and wisdom.

Doves have been known to symbolise love for a long period of time now, but why? The colour of the dove actually has a lot to do with the meanings behind them.

The colour white symbolises purity and innocence, positive energy springing from the bird representing love. White doves are often found in pairs, portraying the idea that seeing a dove is a sign of love to come.

The birds are said to communicate well with each other just like couples would in a healthy relationship. If you come across a dove, it is likely the rest of your day will be good, whether that means getting good news, meeting someone new or getting rid of someone harmful in your life.

Matching sets of jewellery is always a good idea for Valentine’s Day! Designed at our studio in the heart of the Norwich Lanes the Geo Diamonds range is inspired by our love of jewellery as much as on-trend geometric shapes, and we have based the range on our favourite cuts of diamonds.

Best Of Norfolk - Through The Lens Of Our Readers

Thanks to the wonderful photographs shared by our followers on Facebook, have a look at these marvellous January images of our stunning region.

Hannah Marie - Miniature Donkeys For Wellbeing, Donkeys And Volunteers Annual Holkham Beach Walk

Kayleigh Elvin - On The Edge Of Attleborough When It Was -6 Degrees

Dawn Mountain - A Very Crisp Start To The Day In Trunch

Charlotte Watlow

Charlotte Watlow

Dawn Mountain - Cold Mornings By The Lake In Gimingham

Hannah Marie - Donkeys And Volunteers Enjoying The Beach

Charlotte Watlow - Pointing In The Right Direction

To be in with a chance of having your own photographs featured in the future, look out for our regular Facebook posts where you can add your images. Alternatively, send an email with your image and caption to: submissions@icenimagazine.co.uk

Charlotte Watlow - My Little Farm Friends

Rosie Elizabeth - Brancaster Staithe

Hannah Marie - Aylsham Redwings -4 Degrees!

Charlotte Watlow - Looking A Little Sheepish

Focus On: Mental Health

Support Your Mental Health Throughout Your Divorce

Divorce is an all too familiar part of modern-day life, but that unfortunate reality doesn’t make it any less distressing when it happens to you.

No one gets married anticipating their relationship will end in divorce and the breakdown of a relationship can be tough on all concerned. Getting divorced can, for a time, significantly affect your mental health.

For some people their divorce may have been gradually gaining momentum for quite a time. Lack of common ground, disinterest, boredom plus an increased lack of respect may have meant that the couple have simply been sharing the same roof, but little else. Then there are those who may have felt that their relationship was fine until a request to divorce hit them like a bolt out of the blue; shocking, devastating and completely unexpected.

Yes, living together requires hard work, compromise and open channels of

communication in which to discuss irritations and disagreements, hopefully then arriving at a better understanding. If that doesn’t happen, perhaps for many valid reasons like work, children, feeling stressed or too tired; it can be all too easy to slip into an auto-pilot existence, going through routine daily activities, collapsing into bed at night and then repeating it all again the next day. Sound familiar?

But living like that brings its own stresses and pressures, which can ultimately impact on our relationship and our mental health. If we increasingly feel invisible, less important than everyone else, stressed, with little time, money or energy to do what we want or would like to do it can introduce a frumpy, unattractive, boring mindset, where we almost stand back from engaging fully in life. We may not even recognise ourselves in our early wedding photographs: whatever happened to that person?

How many of us start our marriage with the mantra, start as you mean to go on? But, as

the honeymoon phase wears off it’s often replaced by everyday reality, with relationship growing pains often being experienced; little doubts, uncertainties and criticisms may be forthcoming. The weary ‘why don’t you?’, ‘I wish you wouldn’t’, the raised eyebrow or sigh may be signs that our partner has become somewhat exasperated by our quirky habits or behaviours. We may be able to work through tensions, talk them out, but for some people receiving criticism or rejection from someone they love can be the ultimate rejection, where they feel obliged to try harder, be better, improve and do more. And if that doesn’t have the desired effect where do they go from there? It’s often a massive blow to their confidence and self-esteem as they see themselves heading for divorce!

People who’ve been living in a loveless or disapproving, highly critical relationship for a long time may well experience a significant erosion of their mental state; depression, low mood, sleeplessness, poor self-confidence and self-belief are not uncommon as a consequence.

Let’s look at ways to support your mental health during and after your divorce;

● Share how you’re feeling with a trusted friend or confidante. It’s good to have an ally who’s there to offer support and reassurance. Or your GP or spiritual adviser may be a valuable source of assistance. Equally, booking time with a therapist could be a positive way to unravel some of the negativity that’s built up during the deterioration of your relationship and subsequent divorce.

● Accept that your ex-partner now feels differently about you and the relationship, an opinion that’s been shaped over time, encompassing many different experiences. Their opinion of you is simply their perspective. It doesn’t define who you are. You both changed and grew apart over time, which led to your divorce.

● It’s often necessary to make quick decisions after a divorce, in particular concerning living arrangements, schooling and earning money. Try to avoid major, hasty decisions that could have long-term implications and instead maybe house share with a friend, aiming to keep things as familiar as possible at first. Allow some time to grieve, heal and consider what you’d like to do next, maybe starting by working part-time.

● Formulate ideas and plans for a positive future, no matter how far ahead that may feel. Yes, money may be tight, children may require your full attention, but try to schedule in windows of time for yourself, even if it’s going for a walk, reading a book, phoning a friend for a chat, enrolling for an online course, or even dipping your toe in the water with a dating site.

● Be proactive. You may have lost your old circle of friends for a variety of reasons, so start to build a new group, more suited to your present set of circumstances. Other parents, neighbours, work colleagues, even online forums and social media may offer support, companionship and help in boosting your mood. Discovering that you’re not alone, that others have had similar feelings and experiences from which they’ve recovered can offer invaluable comfort and reassurance.

As you move into this next stage of your life, agree to be gentle with yourself, but also be receptive to new ideas, to things you may have never considered before. Open up your mindset to the possibilities of your new life post-divorce.

You’re not just moving forward, you’re starting anew!

Article By Susan Leigh, Counsellor, Hypnotherapist, Author & Media Contributor www.lifestyletherapy.net

Feel Good February ~ Body-Care

After successfully navigating through the “January Blues”, February is now upon us and the days have ever so slightly started to get a little lighter and brighter.

February is the month of love; we tend to associate February with Valentines Day, but I thought we should find an excuse to explore self-love and self-care.

Many people only focus on moisturising their face during the winter months and neglect the rest of their body, forgetting that their body needs moisture too. In particular your legs, they can get extremely dry, keeping them silky smooth throughout the winter can get challenging.

Boost your body-care routine and sense of wellbeing with these self-care body, beauty products this winter.

The Estrid Razor Starter Kit

Available at - www.estrid.com

The starter kit will set you up with everything you need for a new, shaving experience.

Kit includes -

x1 - Steel Pastel Handle

x1 - Matching Holder

x2 - 5 Blade Razor Heads with Soothing Vegan Strip

Estrid also offer a razor subscription service too. Super sharp razor blades will be delivered straight to your door every second month,

every third month, or every fourth month, with the flexibility to amend, pause or cancel your plan anytime.

and locally sourced, cold pressed, GMO free, Rapeseed oil from West Norfolk, which is very high in natural Vitamin E and Omega 3, 6 and 9 oils. It is also packed full of four gorgeous butters - exotic Kokum Butter, Murumuru Butter, Organic Shea Butter and Organic Cocoa Butter.

Saffron Glow Dry Body Oil

Saffron Glow Dry Body Oil is a natural, nourishing, fast absorbing dry body oil. Award winning Norfolk Saffron and Organic CO2 Carrot Extract has been infused into the oil, these ingredients help to restore and revive sun damaged skin, for a radiant, glowing complexion.

Geranium and Lavender Body Butter

Available at - www.nudgeboutique.co.uk

This luxurious Geranium and Lavender scented whipped butter contains organic sunflower oil

The oil is blended with prickly pear seed oil, real vanilla beans, neroli and sweet orange oils, which deliver a nourishing, exotic aroma. This vegan product is suitable for normal and dry skin.

Hi, I am Charlie, a former make-up artist originally based in Norwich. I have always been passionate about art and channelling it through creative makeup. I trained at Norwich City College in Fashion and SFX makeup. My work has been published both nationally and internationally.

Want to see more? checkout my Instagram - @ThePoutyLip

Let Nature Help You

Thank goodness there is much wider acknowledgement of mental health issues, than say 30 years or even 5 years ago.

But despite it being less of a taboo subject, the paths to recovery are few and often well hidden.

It’s a big health banner heading that covers so so much, and is often left to ourselves to sort ourselves out. There are more resources and support groups available these days, but woefully under resourced and so over stretched and often mental health conditions will only come to light when they show in the form of physical symptoms.

During the height of the Covid lockdown and subsequent restrictions, I think it’s fair to say, we all thought that once these were lifted the stresses we were experiencing would just disappear. Unfortunately the debris left in its wake has yet to be cleared and the financial

pressures the majority of us now find ourselves in, present a whole new level of stress.

This is my number 1 tip (feeble as it may seem).

GET OUTSIDE AND EXPERIENCE NATURE

If you can wrap yourself up against the elements (particularly at this time of year) go outside and explore. The benefits of experiencing the great outdoors have been recognised since the days of the industrial revolution, when factory workers headed beyond the boundaries of the pollution laden cities and into the clean air of the countryside.

According to a three-stage study into the mental wellbeing of Wildlife Trusts volunteers, published in 2017, a key finding was that 95% of study participants with low wellbeing at the start reported an improvement in six weeks. This increased further over the next six weeks. The mental wellbeing of all the participants

improved by a significant extent over the 12 weeks that the study took place.

If I want to a moment of calm, I look out at my bird feeders. My crab apple tree always produces a huge amount of small bright red miniature apples, and I always leave them rather than gather and make crab apple jelly.

Not only because I don’t know how to, but because I just love seeing the birds feasting on them. I hang a bird feeder as well in this tree and currently there are blackbirds and pigeons really hitting the tree fruit, whilst blue tits, sparrows and other small birds take the seed. Some years, we’ve had flocks of Waxwing move in for a couple of days - beautiful birds. Bizarrely, I find their busyness really soothing and relaxing to watch.

I find walking also helps clear my mind and soothe my nerves. Exercise in general is good, but with walking I find I really get to notice the small stuff. Bulbs shoots popping through the ground - surely earlier than last year?

Trees getting ready to bud up. In the summer, noticing a beetle or even a smaller insect crossing my path. And as I see and notice these things I realise that I’m just a small part of the picture. It doesn’t help my bank balance, or sort out personal clashes but will often help me sort out my priorities and clear my head.

If you are really struggling with your mental health, doing this is not going to miraculously make it all go away, but it might just be one of many steps that lead you to a healthier state of mind.

Article By Jill Roberson @jillecoqueenliving on Facebook and Instagram

Journaling And How It Can Help Your Mental Health

Keeping a journal sounds like the American for writing in a diary.

And while it isn’t completely untrue, it does not actually encompass the whole art of journaling.

What is journaling?

Journaling involves writing down your thoughts and feelings, helping you to gain a deeper understanding of what is happening in your life. For some people, it can be just writing whatever pops into their head, whereas for others, they require prompts to get them to think about the precise nature of what they will add to their journal. After this article, we share 50 mental health prompts that may help you to get started on your journaling journey.

How could journaling help my mental health?

Keeping your thoughts and concerns in your head can lead to a build-up of energy that needs expelling in some way. Rather than allowing it to get to a point where you explode or implode, utilising a journal can be enormously beneficial. Simply writing things down can alleviate worries and help regain clarity.

How do I learn to journal?

Although there are probably folk out there who will tell you there are right and wrong ways to journal, we disagree with this. If it’s helping you, there is nothing wrong with it at all! Treat

yourself to a new book (you can find loads of books that are designed with journaling in mind) and pens that feel nice in your hand… then write down what is going through your head. Alternatively, choose one of the mental health journal prompts that we have provided and get writing! Whatever comes into your head, put it into words or pictures. Doodles can often be as cathartic as words for some people.

Though some people choose to journal online, this is not as effective as using a book, though, of course, it may be a better option for some people. Taking time out from technology and other barriers to focus will prove beneficial.

Mental Health Journal Prompts

1. How is your mental health right now?

2. How has your mental health changed since the beginning of the year?

3. What are you doing to improve your mental health?

4.What severity is your mental health on a scale of 1 to 10?

5. Do you believe childhood trauma has impacted your current mental health?

6.What mental illnesses do you struggle with?

7. How old were you when you knew you had mental health issues?

8.How has your mental health changed over the years?

9.What types of medical treatments have you tried for your mental health?

10.Have you been to therapy or counselling for your mental health?

11.What natural remedies do you use for your mental health?

12.Have lifestyle changes made an impact on your mental state?

13. What are some daily habits or routines that help your mental health?

14.Describe your mental health morning routine.

15.Describe your mental health night-time routine.

16.What are some things people get wrong about mental health?

17.What do you wish you could explain to people about mental health?

18.What misconceptions about mental health did you learn about?

19.What has been your experience with stress?

20.How has stress impacted your life?

21.What are some of your stress-relieving methods?

22.What is your experience with anxiety?

23.Have you been officially diagnosed with an anxiety disorder?

24.What do you do daily to help with your anxiety?

25.What anxiety triggers do you have?

26.Have you given anything up to help with your anxiety?

27.Do you have people you can talk to about

your anxiety?

28.Do you suffer from depression?

29.Has your depression been officially diagnosed?

30.What severity is your depression?

31.What are some of your depression triggers?

32.Does journaling your feelings help with your mental health?

33.Have you found a specific form of journaling that helps the most?

34.How do you feel about stream-ofconsciousness journaling?

35.Start a gratitude journal and write 5-10 things you are grateful for.

36.Do you find journaling your daily feelings and thoughts helpful?

37.Does writing about a specific topic in your journal help you?

38.Write something creative in your journal today, such as a poem or short story.

39.How are you feeling today?

40.What is something that made you feel happy recently?

41.What is something that made you feel sad recently?

42.What is something new you tried recently?

43.Focus on gratitude today. What are you most grateful for?

44.How is your mental health different when you spend more time alone?

45.How often do you reach out to other people?

46.How do you feel about other people reaching out to you?

47.What kind of self-care practices are part of your routine?

48.Do you practise self-love?

49.How do you feel about self-help for your mental health?

50.What can you do TODAY to improve your mental health?

Boosting Your Mental Health With Endorphins

Mental health is a major cause of concern for many people around the globe. Endorphins can be a natural boost to your emotional well-being.

What are endorphins?

Endorphins are natural hormones that your brain releases when it senses happiness. These endorphins tell you all is well with your body.

You know that relaxed state you feel after a delicious meal, a good workout, a good laugh or great sex? That is the impact that endorphins have on you.

Endorphins are produced in the pituitary gland and the hypothalamus gland and release an opioid-like secretion that masks pain with a natural analgesic and tells the body that all is ok with the world.

The more often you can stimulate your brain to release these natural hormones, the better you will feel, and the easier it will be to put yourself into this happy state of being. Endorphins cannot be bought; only through your own effort can you bring them into being.

How can I create endorphins?

While the creation of endorphins is not effortless, it can be easy. Here are a few simple ways in which you can boost your mental health through endorphins:

• Go for a run - even a one-mile run can have a hugely positive impact

• Play your favourite songs and dance along to them

• Put on your favourite comedy film or comedian’s show - laughing is good for the mind, body and soul

• Seduce your partner and have sex (or bring yourself to climax if you don’t have a sexual partner)

• Listen to your favourite album and sing along at the top of your lungs

• Get acupuncture

• Have a massage

• Meditate

• Eat delicious food (dark chocolate is great for endorphins!)

• Spend time socialising with close friends - a bit of harmless gossip can be fun

Happy creates happy; it is a cycle that you should never break, and you should take every chance to spur these hormones on. Let them do what they do naturally; light their fire and reap the benefits!

Gardens In Norfolk

Celebrating The National Garden Scheme Snowdrop Festival In 2023

Fresh air and the faithful first signs of spring epitomised by drifts of glorious snowdrops are a reminder of the changing seasons and the promise of what’s to come.

What better way to shake off the winter and to celebrate the gardening visiting year ahead than with the National Garden Scheme’s 2023 Snowdrop Festival. These glorious harbingers of Spring can be viewed at 6 National Garden Scheme gardens throughout Norfolk during January, February, and March.

On a wintry day, there is nothing better than visiting a garden gleaming with one of the earliest flowering plants of the year. Whether you enjoy carpets of naturalised white in woodlands meticulously grown rare varieties of snowdrops or gardens boasting a colourful mix of early spring flowers - there is something for galanthophiles and garden enthusiasts alike.

Julia Stafford Allen, County organiser for Norfolk, says: Even if you are not a gardener, our snowdrop gardens in Norfolk are a joy to visit and a real antidote to the winter blues. Most of our gardens provide delicious refreshments

Horstead House

and it is an inexpensive family day out with admission for children free.

Snowdrop Festival Facts

· 6 gardens across the county are opening for the National Garden Scheme Snowdrop Festival in 2023.

· Many of the gardens feature snowdrops and other early spring flowers.

· The festival runs between 1st-28th February.

· Originally launched in 2016 to mark the Year of the English Garden, the National Garden Scheme has been championing the Snowdrop Festival ever since, creating a wonderful taster for the garden visiting year to come .

· The snowdrop gardens attract high visitor numbers. The uncomplicated visitor experience - often accompanied by a warming bowl of soup or hot drinks - fresh air and the beautiful, faithful first signs of spring are a reminder of the changing seasons and the promise of what’s to come .

Sunday 5th February Lexham Hall, PE32 2QJ (11am - 4pm) Admission £6.00 An interesting walk-through naturalised snowdrops and returning through walled garden. Dogs on leads. Refreshments available.

Sunday 12th February Lexham Hall, PE32 2QJ (11am - 4pm) Admission £6.00 Children Free Lexham Hall. Stunning snowdrop walk surrounded by parkland and returning through walled garden. Dogs on leads. Refreshments available.

Saturday 18th February Horstead House, NR12 7AU (11am - 4pm) Admission £5.00. Situated by the river Bure, with colourful dogwoods, stunning display of snowdrops carpet the woodland setting. Dogs on leads. Refreshments available.

Sunday 19th February Bagthorpe, PE31 6QY (11am - 4pm) Admission £5.00 Delightful circular walk which meanders through a carpet of naturalised snowdrops. Dogs on leads. Refreshments available.

Saturday 25th February Hindringham Hall, NR21 0QA (10am - 4pm) Admission £9.00 children £2.50. A behind the scenes wintry look to this beautiful garden described by the Guardian as ‘Amongst 12 of Best Secret Gardens in UK’. Light Refreshments.

Saturday 25th February Raveningham Hall, NR14 6NS. £22 Pre-booked tickets essential obtained at: www.ngs.org.uk Set in glorious parkland setting this guided walk by Sir Nicholas Bacon will take you around this traditional country house garden, with stumpery and arboretum. Admission includes Tea & cake. Dogs on leads.

Sunday 26th February Chestnut Farm, NR25 6NX. Admisssion £5.00. Mature 3 acres of garden developed over 60 years. Collections of many rare and unusual plants and trees. 100+ varieties of snowdrops, drifts of crocus with seasonal flowering shrubs. Light Refreshments.

Raveningham Hall

The South (Featuring Members Of The Beautiful South)

Play Bury St Edmunds - Apex On Sunday 19th February 2023!

The South are back on the road and do what they do best - perform the songs of that great British pop institution, The Beautiful South, to the thousands of fans of these timeless classics.

The South are an impressive 9 piece band who feature former members of The Beautiful South including singer Alison Wheeler and lifelong sax player Gaz Birtles. Since Dave Hemingway, the original singer, left the group at the end of 2016, Gaz has moved across to front the band with Alison and taken on vocal duties.

Since the demise of The Beautiful South in 2007, this exciting live band have spent 11 years touring the theatres and festivals of the UK up and down the country, bringing back the full sound and arrangements of these treasured songs - A Little Time (the number one single), Perfect 10, Rotterdam, Song For Whoever, Old Red Eyes Is Back, Good as Gold, Don't Marry Her plus many more singles and album tracks as well as a few choice South originals. These songs span an impressive 18 year career starting way back in 1989!

The South are: Alison Wheeler (Vocals), Gaz Birtles (Vocals), Phil Barton (Guitars), Steve Nutter (Bass), Dave Anderson (Drums), Karl Brown (Percussion), Gareth John (Trumpet), Su Robinson (Sax) and Andy Price (Keyboards).

Let’s Carry On… Regardless!

Tickets are available fromhttp://thesouth.co.uk/tour-dates/

For more information on THE SOUTH, please visit the following website / social media links below:

Website: http://thesouth.co.uk/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/TheSouthBand

Twitter: https://twitter.com/thesouthuk

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/wat ch?v=DJAjjjfCC8k&feature=youtu.be and https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3sbWXya Xm4o&feature=youtu.be