Iceni Magazine Norfolk Issue 134

“To travel is to live.”

Hans Christian Anderson

Welcome to Issue 134 of Iceni Magazine.

This month focuses on Holidays - and boy do we long for one! Wondering what you need to pack? It was much easier as a child when your parents would do it for you, but here’s a guide on Pages 30 and 31 that could help. If you, like many of us, are trying to lose weight, a holiday could stop you from seeing success on the scales. Fortunately, it doesn’t have to be that way as Slimming World consultant Ali and some of her members reveal (Pages 28&29). Everyone’s heard of babysitting, but what about garden sitting? Find out more on Pages 32 and 33.

Elsewhere, check out Charlie’s review of Facial Lymphatic Drainage Massage, which can help alleviate hay fever symptoms (Pages 16&17). Ever wondered whether a Subaru might be the perfect addition to your family? Tim reviews the Subaru Crosstrek on pages 10 and 11. Pages 36 to 39 detail open gardens in Norfolk that you might fancy visiting (especially if the facial massage has helped your sniffles!) - so many wonderful options!

Until July, we wish you all sunny days and a huge dose of health and happiness. Enjoy Issue 134!

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CONTRIBUTORS

Ali, Charlie, Iceni Home And Garden, Nova Silver, Susan Leigh, Tim Barnes-Clay, Trevor Langley, Vicki Jeffery.

Copyright © Iceni Magazine Limited. All rights reserved. No articles, adverts, content or design in this magazine may be used or reproduced either in whole or part, online or in print. The views and advice from contributors are not necessarily those of Iceni Magazine 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. www.icenimagazine.co.uk Follow our social channels

Summer Of New Musicals Starts At Norwich Theatre Playhouse

Norwich Theatre is excited to announce three brand-new musicals, which will preview at Norwich Theatre Playhouse in July before heading to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.

Come Dine With Me: The Musical; I Wish You Well - The Gwyneth Paltrow Ski-Trial Musical; and SILENCE! The Musical; are all Paul Taylor-Mills (Heathers, My Son’s a Queer (But What Can You Do?) and Cake: The Marie Antoinette PLAYlist) produced musicals and go on sale today.

These cheeky and hilarious musicals are just an hour long and scheduled to allow audiences to see all three! Musical fans wishing to see them all can book all three shows at a special offer of £35.

Sam Bain, Head of Programming & Producing at Norwich Theatre, said: “You don’t have to go to Edinburgh to see the very best fringe

theatre in the UK today. Norwich Theatre’s Playhouse and Stage Two venues have you covered, bringing you the best new shows to your doorstep.

“These musicals are an absolute riot and have the feel-good factor that is perfect for summer. Trust us, you won't want to miss them!”

For a bit of celebrity gossip, try I Wish You Well - The Gwyneth Paltrow Ski-Trial Musical (23 - 28 Jul), which tells the (mostly) true story of the campest celebrity trial in history: Gwyneth vs Terry. The show is choreographed by former BBC Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips and stars X Factor contestant Diana Vickers as Gwyneth Paltrow.

Packed full of iconic moments, the questions about Taylor Swift, and the now famous whisper of ‘I wish you well’ - this is a fast-paced parody that sounds as good as Gwyneth's candle smells. Throw in some jade eggs and future classics such as ‘Do You Know Taylor?’ and ‘I’m

Gwynnocent’, and you have yourself a hilarious musical bursting with heart. We will ski you in court!

SILENCE! The Musical (24 - 28 Jul) is the unauthorised musical parody of the Academy Award-winning film The Silence of the Lambs, directed by Christopher Gattelli, who won a Tony Award for Best Choreography for Newsies on Broadway.

As rookie FBI agent Clarice matches wits with the brilliant but insane Dr Hannibal Lecter to catch the serial killer known only as Buffalo Bill, a chorus of singing lambs breaks out to show tunes about the most horrific of subjects. Complete with singing serial killers, songs with unprintable titles and a chorus of lambs, SILENCE! The Musical comes charging at you with gleefully unstoppable bad taste.

Come Dine With Me: The Musical (23 - 28 Jul) takes a bunch of tuneful strangers, mixes

in a dollop of behind-the-scenes skulduggery, a Sound Man playing detective, a sprinkling of star-crossed love, and plenty of juicy arpeggios. Marinade, cook for 60 minutes... and serve hot. The result is a mouth-watering fusion dish, combining the beloved TV show and a sumptuous original score to form a winning recipe that will delight even the pickiest palate!

You can mix and match the musicals, seeing all shows on separate days or make a day of it and see all of them at once!

See all the musicals for £35 by booking online at norwichtheatre.org or contacting the Box Office on 01603 630 000. All shows must be booked at the same time.

How Do You Deal With Anger?

Is anger an all too familiar response for you? Some people never seem to be far away from a flare-up or from being quick to find offence and respond in a defensive, even aggressive way. They instantly react and then find themselves feeling unhappy, outraged and offended by the slightest criticism, comment or facial expression.

Anger can also be experienced silently, as quiet internal resentment. No words spoken, but instead a few non-verbal signals, like becoming mute, introverted or tense. Ultimately this response can result in physical issues, like IBS, headaches, insomnia, gut-related ailments, often evidenced by phrases like, ‘I’m sick to my stomach’, ‘it’s doing my head in’, ‘I’m gutted’. And indeed, a 2024 US survey warns that sharp bursts of anger could lead to heart attacks or strokes.

When we feel strongly about something we may expect everyone else to share our opinion, viewpoint and even sense of outrage. How could they not when what’s ‘right’ is so obvious; surely it’s clear to anyone!

There are many things that generate strong opinions; politics, football, the raising of

children, how partners in a relationship ‘should’ behave. But if someone holds a different opinion it doesn’t mean that they’re wrong and we’re right. It doesn’t mean that they’re a bad person or supporting a hidden agenda.

At fraught times, a calm person is often able to step back, take an overview and determine the best, most constructive way forward. They’re able to mentally reflect and check if they’re in full possession of the facts or are being judgemental. Is there an alternative viewpoint? Could they have misunderstood, got it wrong, jumped to conclusions? After all, few people are deliberately rude, offensive or hurtful and, if they are, maybe it’s time to find out why. What prompted such behaviour?

Coping with divorce and learning to adjust and move forward into a revised relationship with our ex is a familiar example of dealing with anger. The ending of a relationship often triggers the grieving process, healing after the loss of a special relationship, with its anticipated future promise. Understanding how our ex now thinks, how their views and opinions have perhaps changed, and accepting that that’s their prerogative, whilst protecting ourselves, can be a significant part of our healing journey post-divorce.

We need to remind ourselves that our ex is not ‘bad’. We loved them once after all. Part of the initial attraction may have been our differing viewpoints, as we learned to appreciate alternative perspectives and be more reflective.

So, how do you deal with anger? There are no positives to be gained by shouting, screaming or losing control. In fact, that reaction prevents us from navigating the situation well as we sacrifice clear thinking and power, resulting in less influence over the eventual outcome. By being more pragmatic, in an ‘it is what it is’ kind of way, we’re able to assess where we’re at, what the ‘issues’ are, which potential options are available and what’s the best, most viable next step.

Has your car ever broken down? If you were on the way to an important meeting or to pick up your children, a breakdown may have been an especially frustrating occurrence. For some, their reaction may have been to get out of their car and rant and rage. For others, they may have quickly thought through what needed to be done to retrieve the situation and achieve the best outcome. Does the car need moving to a safer place, who needs to be informed, are you in a rescue organisation or do you need to phone a garage? Accepting the situation and determining how to deal with it in a calm, pragmatic way is the healthiest, most energy efficient way forward.

There are many suggested ways to deal with anger. Some people like to process their thoughts and feelings by expressing them in a

journal or letter. A letter can be addressed to the relevant person, even if they’re no longer around, itemising the points of upset or dissent. It’s good to handwrite this, take time over it and maybe rewrite it several times, until everything is down on paper. Once done, you can finish the ‘exercise’ by burning it, having a midnight ritual, throwing it in a bottle out to sea. This can bring closure, especially if it’s not possible to have a face-to-face meeting.

A handwritten journal is usually a private relationship between the writer and their journal, perhaps having a regular ‘appointment’ where it’s kept up-to-date. Writing is a great way to connect and process various thoughts and emotions, helping to work through and make better sense of them, especially beneficial with complex emotions, like grief, a break-up or divorce, or at times of feeling misunderstood or not heard.

And reading your journal at a later date can provide interesting insights into your journey and healing process, so making sense of confusing emotions and actions.

Therapy can be a useful way to identify what triggers an angry encounter, especially if others have expressed concern at your responses and are suggesting that you tend to over-react. Are you triggered when you experience what you feel to be rudeness, are ignored or not listened to, are frustrated when people ‘don’t get’ what you’re saying? Sometimes making sense of the origins of that reaction can help it to heal and reconcile, so supporting a better outcome.

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

The Subaru Crosstrek: The Family Car That Takes You Anywhere

Are you looking for a practical, reliable car that can handle muddy terrain and harsh weather conditions?

Look no further than the Subaru Crosstrek, writes Tim Barnes-Clay.

This vehicle is a cross between a hatchback and an SUV and blends style, comfort, and performance in one package, making it perfect for British roads and our changeable climate.

The Crosstrek’s bold front grille, sharp headlights, and distinctive body lines give it a modern and stylish look. The vehicle sits on 18-inch alloy wheels that provide a smooth, comfortable ride, even on bumpy, potholepeppered roads.

The car’s all-wheel-drive system is one of its most significant selling points, especially in the often-wet UK. With this feature, you can motor along with confidence in any season. Additionally, the Crosstrek’s impressive 220mm of ground clearance allows it to handle rough, off-the-beaten-track surfaces easily.

Inside, the Subaru offers a spacious cabin accommodating up to five passengers. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making long journeys more comfortable. The interior has various tech features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto and a rearview camera.

The Crosstrek’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine combined with hybrid power provides a decent balance of clout with 136PS and 184Nm of

torque. What’s more, the engine is paired with a single-speed auto continuously variable transmission (CVT). The ‘Scooby’ will achieve mid-30s mpg and zero to 62mph arrives in a seemingly leisurely 10.8 seconds. However, it feels quicker than that - and the maximum speed is 123mph.

Regarding safety, the Crosstrek comes loaded with tech such as Subaru’s first-class EyeSight kit. This feature helps prevent accidents and protects you and your passengers.

Overall, this Subaru is a good choice for anyone after a car that offers style, comfort, and mountain-goat-like performance. With its allwheel-drive system, notable ground clearance, and advanced safety features, the Crosstrek is an excellent vehicle for daily commutes, weekend getaways, and outdoor adventures.

Choose the Subaru Crosstrek and drive it on any road, muddy rural trail, or in any weather with confidence.

• Max speed: 123 mph

• 0-62 mph: 10.8 secs

• MPG: 36.8

• Engine layout: 1,995cc four-cylinder petrol hybrid

• Max. power (PS): 136

• CO2: 174 g/km

• Price: £36,290

By Tim Barnes-Clay. Follow

Fast Facts - Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i e-Boxer Touring as tested:

Jobs To Do In The Garden For June

June is a pivotal month in the gardening calendar.

As the days grow longer and the weather warms up, gardens burst into life. This is a period of intense activity for gardeners, filled with tasks to nurture and maintain the beauty of outdoor spaces. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the essential jobs to do in the garden during June.

Planting and Sowing

June is an excellent time for planting and sowing. The soil is warm enough to support the growth of a wide variety of plants. Here are some key tasks:

● Direct Sowing: Sow seeds of fast-growing vegetables such as lettuce, radishes, and beans. These crops will thrive in the warm soil and can provide a quick turnaround for a summer harvest.

● Flower Planting: Continue planting summerflowering bulbs and tubers like gladiolus and dahlias. These plants will add vibrant colours to your garden in the coming months.

● Container Plants: Fill pots and containers with summer bedding plants such as petunias, marigolds, and geraniums. These plants are perfect for brightening up patios and balconies.

Maintenance and Care

Maintaining the garden in June involves regular care and attention to ensure that plants thrive. Key maintenance tasks include:

● Watering: As temperatures rise, it’s crucial to keep the garden well-watered. Early morning or late evening is the best time to water to minimize evaporation. Deep watering helps to encourage deep root growth and ensures plants remain drought-resistant.

● Weeding: Keep on top of weeds to prevent them from competing with your plants for nutrients and water. Regular hoeing and hand weeding can keep unwanted plants at bay.

● Mulching: Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure. Organic mulches like compost or bark chippings are ideal.

● Feeding: Feed plants with a balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth. Pay particular attention to hungry crops like tomatoes and cucumbers, which require regular feeding to produce a good harvest.

Pruning and Training

June is also the time to focus on pruning and training plants to ensure they stay healthy and productive:

● Prune Spring-flowering Shrubs: Once shrubs like lilac and forsythia have finished flowering, prune them to encourage new growth and prevent them from becoming too leggy.

● Support for Climbing Plants: Ensure climbing plants like beans, peas, and sweet peas are supported with canes or trellises. Regularly tie in new growth to keep the plants tidy and productive.

● Deadheading: Regularly remove spent flowers from annuals and perennials to encourage more blooms. Deadheading not only improves the appearance of plants but also prevents them from setting seed and directs their energy into further growth.

Pest and Disease Control

Warm weather can bring with it a host of garden pests and diseases. Here’s how to keep them in check:

● Disease Prevention: Ensure good air circulation around plants to prevent fungal diseases. Remove any diseased plant material promptly to stop the spread of infection.

Lawn Care

June is also a critical month for lawn care:

● Mowing: Increase the frequency of mowing as grass growth accelerates. However, avoid cutting the grass too short; a longer lawn can cope better with dry conditions.

● Feeding and Weeding: Apply a summer lawn feed to promote a lush green sward. Address broadleaf weeds with a selective weed killer or by hand weeding.

Enjoy Your Garden

Lastly, take time to enjoy the beauty and tranquility of your garden. June sees gardens at their peak, and it’s the perfect month to relax and appreciate all your hard work. Whether it’s hosting a garden party, enjoying a cup of tea on the patio, or simply taking a walk through the garden, make sure to savour the fruits of your labour.

June is a bustling month for gardeners, filled with activities that set the stage for a lush and productive garden. By focusing on planting, maintenance, pruning, pest control, and lawn care, you’ll ensure your garden thrives throughout the summer.

● Check for Pests: Keep an eye out for common garden pests such as aphids, slugs, and caterpillars. Regular inspections can help nip infestations in the bud. Use environmentally friendly pest control methods whenever possible, such as introducing beneficial insects or using organic sprays.

Beeston is located approx. 4 miles west of Nottingham.

This popular town has housing and accommodations, to suit all requirements. Shopping in Beeston boasts supermarkets, independent retailers and businesses, offering and supplying all of our everyday needs, plus many items of a bespoke nature too. Transport links, for Beeston, have very frequent buses, trams and trains, with many visitors utilising these modes of transportation to access the town regularly. A good number of eateries and restaurants in Beeston offer nourishment and beverages, from a simple coffee/tea, through snacks, lunches and dinners, to banquet-style occasions.

DINING AT: YAK & YETI

I located Yak & Yeti in Beeston. This fine dining restaurant opened during 2019 and has gained a lot of popularity, from residents, locals and visitors. Offering Indian and Nepalese cuisine and dishes, my impressions were excellent, with crisp, white linen and pristine table settings for all tables.

To commence I chose Yak & Yeti Mixed Grill. Fresh and hot from the grill and tandoori oven, this starter certainly had my tastes alerted.

My main’s selection was for King Prawn Kadai (fresh king prawns, chunky peppers, mushrooms, onions and spices). The complementing flavours of items for this dish were perfect - and most impressive, with the succulence, tenderness, presentation and sides all adding to the experience. Certainly, ‘Compliments to Chef’, were duly awarded. Head Chef, Bhagwan, plus chef Jagadish and

the team ensure that all diners are impressed. Vegetarian dishes are available too.

For dessert I opted for Cheesecake. This made the ‘winding down’ of the experience very enjoyable indeed. Quality wines and drinks have something for everyone.

The Lunchtime (12:00 - 16:00, 7 days) Meal Deal offers any main course, plus rice or naan and soft drink for £12. Also, another very popular option is the Family Meal Deal.

Yak & Yeti ‘stands out from the crowd’, with 10% discount for collections, plus celebrations/ parties/occasions/business events and outside catering being no problem at all - just give them a call.

Gift vouchers are available (perhaps a surprise for someone?).

Thank you to Balaram for exemplary service throughout. Booking is advisable for popular times.

Highly recommended.

Yak & Yeti, 61 Wollaton Road, Beeston, Nottingham NG9 2NG.

Tel: 0115 874 1796.

E-mail: yakyetirestaurant@gmail.com

Web: www.yaknyeti.co.uk

Suffer From Hayfever?

Here’s How A Facial Lymphatic Drainage Massage Can Help

So, you’ve waited all spring for some warm sunshine but, as the skies start to become clearer, the stressful seasonal allergies begin.

Allergies are extremely common and they generally don’t cause us serious harm but for some people they can be severely debilitating. For those that suffer with hayfever, seasonal allergies, allergic asthma or eczema, the spring and summer months can be somewhat challenging.

I suffer with seasonal allergies and have done so for many years. I’m allergic to tree and grass pollen. The tree pollen season mainly occurs between February and June, typically from late March to mid-May. The grass pollen season begins mid-May right through to July. So, with that being said, I can tell you first hand,

that as much as I absolutely love summer, the summer months can be very challenging. Battling with a runny/blocked nose, itchy eyes and sinus headaches can be very frustrating. Having to rely on anti-histamines to mask the symptoms, which for me give little relief, I took to the internet in search for effective, chemicalfree ways to soothe the symptoms of allergies. This is where I stumbled across lymphatic drainage massage.

What is lymphatic drainage massage?

Lymphatic drainage massage is a specialist massage that works by stimulating and clearing the lymph system. The massage combines alternating pressure and sweeping strokes to gently move lymph fluid to the lymph nodes to be cleared. This then helps to restore the natural flow and balance.

Facial lymphatic drainage massage for allergies

Facial drainage is a scientifically proven remedy for clearing allergens and histamines. By removing excess fluids from your face and sinuses, many or most of your allergy symptoms can be alleviated. It’s safe and non-invasive which means that it’s a popular alternative to pharmaceuticals. It’s extremely common for those that the suffer with hay-fever and seasonal allergies to make frequent appointments with a beauty aesthetician throughout spring and summer to help keep their allergy symptoms at bay and prevent flare ups.

Armed with all my knowledge I decided to book myself in for my first ever facial lymphatic drainage massage, I made an appointment with IG: J_A_Aesthetics_and_ Beauty based at Oksana Salon in Norwich.

What happened during the treatment

During the facial lymphatic drainage massage the beauty aesthetician applied pressure to my face. She used a range of different techniques using her fingers, glass cooling facial globes and textured facial roller. Rubbing, tapping and pushing movements were used to promote the lymphatic flow around my face.

Treatment afterthoughts

I found the facial lymphatic drainage massage extremely relaxing. My favourite part of the treatment was when the beauty aesthetician used the glass cooling facial globes - I found this extremely soothing. It was a whole new experience for me and something that I wished I’d discovered a lot sooner! So, the question is, will I be booking this treatment again? Definitely! I walked out of my appointment feeling relaxed, soothed and with silky, glowing 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

Welcome To Summer!

It’s finally summer! We are getting warmer weather, more flowers blooming, and longer evenings too!

Here at Nova Silver, we are thrilled to finally be in summer and are soaking up all the lovely sunshine while we can! To celebrate being in the new season, we have created some of our favourite summer time jewellery in our collection that is perfect to wear out on a walk, to the beach, or even a sunny summer holiday abroad!

Shells

We have an amazing collection of shell inspired jewellery, including jewellery that even has real shells in it! (Don’t worry we’ll talk about that in the next section!) One of our popular favourites every year is our super cute ammonite stud earrings and matching pendant set! This is a great set for everyday wear and perfect to get in the mood for summer!

If ammonite isn’t your vibe, we also have a beautiful Wentletrap shell pendant and earring set! This set has a mixture of both sterling silver and matt silver which gives these pieces a sparkly look to them! A perfect set to wear out in the evening.

Abalone

We have a gorgeous range of Abalone jewellery in our collection as well, which is indeed a real shell! Also known as the Paula shell in Australia, The Abalone shell is also believed to enhance feelings of peace, compassion, and love while promoting emotional balance.

One of our personal favourites here at Nova silver is this lovely oval abalone pendant which has both matching studs and earrings to go with it. The pendant has three diagonal slices of abalone with pieces of sterling silver separating the parts of shell.

With a range of different hues when it hits the light from blue, to green, and to purple, it’s the perfect piece of jewellery to wear in the summer to stay positive!

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 amazing May images of our stunning region.

Laura Baxter - After The Rain, Poringland

Sally Redgrave - Sunset At Hunstanton

Helen Chapman - Ashwellthorpe

Dawn Mountain - Skelding Hill, Sheringham

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

Helen Chapman - Ashwellthorpe

Dawn Mountain - Stody Gardens

Nadine Gray - Mundesley Seafront

Focus On: Holidays

The Importance Of Rest Days And Holidays

Many people lead busy lives and know all too well the importance of keeping going from one day to the next.

They hardly dare stop because there are business targets to achieve, new clients to be courted, as well as personal relationships with family, children and friends to be nurtured and maintained. Very occasionally there may be an interlude for a little time out!

Certain jobs and lifestyles provide no clearly defined opportunities for breaks or holidays. Children, ailing relatives, growing a new business, studying for professional exams, even the seasons bring their own demands. And with more people working from home, it’s often easier to keep going and not have regular break times during the day. However, maintaining an unremitting level of commitment to everything and everyone can eventually become counter-productive and ultimately negatively impact all areas of life.

When you consider that there are over 360 documented symptoms of stress it’s hardly

surprising that stress and its impact has become such an important ‘red flag’. Sleep, concentration, sense of humour, as well as a miscellany of aches and pains are only some of the areas affected by stress. So taking regular breaks and, in particular, rest days and holidays are important ways to recalibrate and learn to wind down or even switch off at times.

Rest days provide an alternative to the full-on, singular focus that may well be our usual way of operating on a daily basis. Everything changes gear when we’re out with friends, playing with our children, walking in the countryside or reading a good book. At those times we think differently, detach from our daily concerns, relax, and become less tense; we’re taking a day when nothing is expected of us.

A small window, a 20 minute break can improve our mindset and problem solving abilities. So, taking a full day of rest has even more benefits. It allows us to detach and refresh our priorities, remind us of what’s really important in our lives, but equally not forget to care for ourselves. Afterwards we may return with

new ideas and a fresh perspective on lingering problems and concerns, plus it’s good to occasionally remind ourselves and others that we can’t be indispensable.

Holidays are a good way to completely change gear and focus on reinventing ourselves. We all have a variety of personas that we regularly adopt in our daily lives, depending on whichever situation we find ourselves in; busy professional, parent, co-worker, partner, fun friend are ‘hats’ that we might wear whenever appropriate situations arise. We slip into character and automatically default to whatever’s expected of us.

But a break, a holiday allows us the opportunity to shed those different facades and use this free time to become a playmate to our children, an attentive companion, an intrepid adventurer and explorer or even a relaxed beach bum. Single or partnered, we can use breaks and holidays to challenge ourselves in unexpected ways, to climb a mountain, learn to water ski, volunteer in an animal sanctuary or explore a new city.

It’s a good way to meet new people, to potentially learn new skills and explore different cultures. In our everyday life we typically experience familiar people and situations that need dealing with and managing. A holiday often requires us to start conversations with strangers, be intrigued and curious about what we’re seeing and step outside of our comfort zones.

In addition, introducing a change of pace and not being 100% available all the time is a good reminder to the people in our lives. We may have allowed them to rely on us for everything. It might have been easier, we knew we’d do it quicker or better, it allowed us to become important, indispensable, but doing everything ourselves discourages other people from thinking for themselves, demotivates them and does no one any favours in the long term.

Other people should be able to take up some of the slack, share the responsibilities, work load and feel confident about contributing. Learning to share tasks, teach others new skills, sometimes say ‘no’ and be assertive in appropriate ways can be an unexpected benefit from being firm about taking rest days and holidays. At work it’s important to have staff cover for holidays and sick leave, or even for especially busy times, but home too can benefit from delegating to partners and children, reminding them that clean clothes don’t magically appear and dinner doesn’t automatically get made.

Would we expect a co-worker, a friend, family member or even our car to work nonstop, without a break or service? Taking rest days and holidays is an important way to improve our sleep, our general health, wellbeing and consequently our relationships, work performance and quality of life. Everything benefits when we take some time out.

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

Can You Have A Holiday And Still Lose Weight?

Are you trying to lose weight or eat more healthily and have holidays coming up?

Maybe you want to enjoy your holiday, have some treats but also not put on the pounds. Here are some tips from my members of ways to navigate holidays.

1. Ask for swaps

One of my members Chris said, ‘when going out for meals, see if the restaurant will change to baked/boiled potatoes or rice, and then use a low syn condiment to jazz up your potatoes or rice.’ Most restaurants nowadays are used to catering for different allergies and dietary

needs so are used to making changes to meals. I very much believe in, if you don’t ask you won’t get; the worst thing they can say is no! It’s also always worth looking up menus before you go and deciding what you are going to have, you can always ring restaurants before to ask about what swaps they can do. My favourite tip from a member recently was to ask for the fat to be removed from steak or gammon before it gets to you to reduce the temptation.

2. Self Cater

By self-catering you have much more control over what you eat. To make it easier so you don’t have to spend a lot of time cooking: ● Take a slow cooker or airfryer

● Make some meals before holiday you can take and reheat

● Take some frozen ready meals such as Slimming World’s meals you can purchase at the food warehouse or Iceland.

3. Avoid Alcohol

Some of my members have said that by reducing or not drinking alcohol, this has reduced their calorie intake and it has also meant they have made better food decisions.

4. Navigate the Buffet

One of my members Angela said: If there are buffet meals, ‘fill up on protein, veg & salads, try to avoid bread & cakes.’ It is worth thinking before going which meals I can continue to prioitise my health and which meals I might have more calorie filled items e.g. a healthy fruit and plain yogurt for breakfast to allow me more calories with my dinner.

5. How about a BBQ?

Many of my members enjoy having BBQ’s, focusing on lean meats such as chicken and low-fat burgers and sausages with lots of salad and potatoes (reducing the bread) has helped them to enjoy the summer without putting on the pounds.

6. Getting back on it straight after holiday

If you decide to not think about healthy eating on holiday, the key is deciding as soon as you get back you will get back on it.

● Schedule a shop to arrive or pop to a shop as soon as you’re back so you can fill your fridge with healthy foods.

● Have pre-cooked or healthy ready meals in the freezer.

● Refocus on why you are losing weight, is it for your health, confidence, family?

7. And finally, keep active with lots of body magic!

Keep active on holidays - walk, swim, whatever you prefer! Monitor your steps so you can see how far you have gone!

Hi, I’m Ali, a Slimming World Consultant in Old Catton and Thorpe Hamlet in Norwich. As a slimmer myself and a parent, I love to bulk cook, making family friendly meals. I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals and feeling healthier and confident.

If you or someone you know would like to lose half a stone or more I would love to hear from you! Get in touch to find out more about Slimming World groups: 07835111224.

Top Essentials To Pack When Going On Holiday

Whether you’re jetting off to a tropical paradise or planning a cosy mountain getaway, packing for a holiday can sometimes feel like a daunting task.

The key to a stress-free and enjoyable trip is to pack smartly and efficiently. By focusing on essential items that cater to both your destination and your personal needs, you can ensure that you have everything you need without overburdening yourself with unnecessary items. Here are some essential items to consider packing when going on holiday.

Clothing is arguably one of the most important categories to consider when packing for a

holiday. The key is to pack versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits for various occasions. Depending on the destination and the activities you have planned, pack a combination of comfortable casual wear, dressier outfits for evenings out, and appropriate attire for specific activities such as swimming or hiking. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast for your destination to ensure you pack the right clothing for the conditions you’ll encounter.

Footwear is another crucial category to consider. Comfort is key when it comes to footwear, especially if you’ll be doing a lot of walking or exploring. Pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes or trainers for daytime activities,

as well as a dressier option for evenings out. If you’ll be heading to the beach or pool, don’t forget to pack a pair of flip-flops or sandals. Having the right footwear can make a significant difference in your comfort and enjoyment during your holiday.

Toiletries and personal care items are essential for feeling fresh and confident while on holiday. Pack travel-sized bottles of your favourite toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion to save space in your luggage. Don’t forget essentials like toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, and any medications you may need. Sunscreen is also a must-have item, especially if you’ll be spending time outdoors. Consider packing a small first aid kit with items like bandages, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes for minor emergencies.

Electronics and accessories can enhance your holiday experience, so be sure to pack your essentials. Your smartphone is likely the most important gadget to bring, as it can serve multiple purposes such as navigation, communication, and capturing memories

through photos and videos. Don’t forget to pack chargers and adapters for your devices, as well as power banks to keep them charged on the go. If you plan on spending time at the beach or by the pool, consider bringing a waterproof case to protect your electronics.

Travel documents and essentials are crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. Make sure you have your passport, tickets, itinerary, and any necessary visas or identification. Consider creating digital copies of these documents and storing them securely online or on a separate device in case of loss or theft. Travel insurance is also an essential item to consider, as it can provide peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen events such as trip cancellations or medical emergencies. When packing for a holiday, it’s important to strike a balance between being prepared and traveling light. By focusing on essential items that cater to your destination and personal needs, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a memorable and enjoyable trip.

With careful planning and organisation, you can pack efficiently and confidently, knowing that you’re prepared for whatever your holiday may bring.

Garden Sitting: Stress-Free(ish) Holidays

Babysitting is a commonly used term, but what about garden sitting?

It’s basically very similar. You need to leave your garden for a bit - employ someone to look after it.

Imagine spending hours and hours over several months, weeding, pruning and preening everything to make your garden look attractive to bees and your neighbours! Then, you are unable to get out there for a week or two. During that time, there’s no rain, but the grass continues to grow and the weeds start to poke through, the flowers die and the freshness of your outside space deteriorates rapidly. How upset would you feel?

When you go on holiday, the same thing can happen if you don’t consider a solution in advance. Ok, so a neighbour could easily pop over and water a few hanging baskets and plant pots. It’s unlikely that they’ll also mow the lawn and weed the cracks in the patio as well, though.

Iceni Home and Garden offers a garden sitting service. Here are the main reasons why people choose to pay for garden sitting:

1. Ensures your garden stays wellmaintained and healthy while you are away.

A well-maintained and healthy garden is something most of us strive to achieve. Getting

there and then losing it because of a holiday could be upsetting. Prevent the upset and worry by investing in the services of a garden sitter.

2. Prevents weeds from overgrowing and damaging your plants.

Weeds grow so quickly and before you know it, they can take over. While some look very attractive, and we actually actively leave some of them in our outside spaces, many serve no purpose. In fact, they may damage the plants you have chosen to have in your garden. It’s always best to tackle them quickly.

3. Keeps your garden looking neat and presentable for your return.

Imagine your return journey home from the airport and seeing that your garden is the worst in the street. Not only will you undoubtedly feel a little embarrassed but others may have noticed, too. While a week may be ok to leave things, any longer and you’ll certainly have a less than presentable outside space to deal with on your return.

4. Watering and caring for plants regularly to ensure they stay alive.

Plants are far from cheap these days, so returning from a break to find some have died will put you on a downer and feel like you’ve wasted money. Of course, you expect there to be some rain in the U.K., even during hot spells, but the rain might not last or even reach the plant beyond its leaves.

5. Professional gardeners can spot and address issues like pests or diseases early on.

Like weeds, pests and diseases can strike quickly and the results can be devastating for your plants. Having someone to check your garden over while you’re away lowers the risk of pests and diseases causing too much damage.

6. Saves you time and effort when you come back from holiday as your garden will already be in good shape.

Returning from a break away can be almost depressing. That back to reality with a bang, that mound of washing, that sinking feeling in your tummy knowing you’ll soon be back at work. Knowing you’ve not got to spend hours on your garden when you get home can relieve the pressure somewhat.

For more information find Iceni Home And Garden on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ icenihomeandgarden/

Email: hello@icenihomeandgarden.co.uk

June Is The Most Joyful Time To Visit Gardens Open For The National Garden Scheme

There are so many beautiful gardens to visit this month and what a diverse collection.

Twenty private gardens, from cottages, farmhouses to historic halls. Take morning coffee in the inspirational hospice garden with its great access for wheelchairs or enjoy a fascinating evening guided tour in a walled garden restored by a community. Regular garden visitor Mary Ferneley says, “Chelsea Flower Show galvanised me into action this year. I know what a joy it is to spend time in a garden open for the National Garden Scheme, where I meet up with friends, enjoy the atmosphere and sample the delicious home-made teas”.

Sunday 2nd June

OULTON HALL, OULTON, AYLSHAM, NR11 6NU

1.30-5. Adm £6, chd free. Home-made teas & refreshments. Dogs allowed. Partial wheelchair access. C18 manor house (not open) and clocktower set in 6 acres with lake and woodland walks. Chelsea designer’s own garden. Herbaceous, Italian, watery and wild areas. Sunken and parterre gardens all flowing from one tempting vista to another. Developed over 25 years with recent planting in the contemporary manner.

THE NORFOLK HOSPICE, TAPPING HOUSE, WHEATFIELDS, HILLINGTON, KINGS LYNN, PE31 6BH 9-1. Adm £4.50, chd free. Light refreshments.

Elsing Hall

Dogs allowed. Plants for sale. Excellent wheelchair access.

2 acres planted in 2016 and created by volunteers to provide a peaceful and friendly space for residents, staff and visitors. Includes a variety of cottage garden plants, perennials, shrubs and trees with a wildlife pond and a vegetable patch.

Tuesday 4th June, Wednesday 5th June and Thursday 6th June

ERPINGHAM HOUSE FARM, ERPINGHAM, AYLSHAM, NR11 7QD

Evening open 6-8pm adm £15 chd free. Prebooking essential. SOLD OUT Wine. An interesting guided tour around floriferous fields of different varieties of paeonies grown for cutting and selected for their colour and scent. Part of a successful diversification of the farm.

Sunday 9th June

BOOTON HALL, CHURCH ROAD, BOOTON, REEPHAM, NR10 4NZ

11-5. Adm £6.00, chd free. Home-made teas. Partial wheelchair access but some gravel quite deep. Walled garden with formal layout and tiered lawns redesigned 8 years ago and attached to a C17/18th hall (not open). Sweeping lawns between the house and parkland meadows, shrub beds, pond planting, small orchard, and short woodland walk.

ELSING HALL, HALL ROAD, ELSING, Nr DEREHAM, NR20 3DX

10-4. Adm £8, chd free. Home-made teas. Picnics allowed in car park. C15 fortified and moated manor house (not open). 10-acre garden and park with significant collection of old roses, walled garden, formal garden, terraced garden, ginkgo avenue, & viewing mound, moongate and interesting pinetum.

HIGH HOUSE GARDENS, BLACKMOOR ROW, SHIPDHAM IP25 7PU

12-5. Adm £6, chd free. Home-made teas. Plants for sale. Partial wheelchair access. 3-acre, well-developed plantsman's garden maintained by the current owners. Colour-themed herbaceous borders with an extensive range of perennials, box-edged rose and shrub borders, large vegetable garden. Woodland garden, pond and bog area, orchard and small arboretum.

(NEW)

WENSUM FARMHOUSE, POCKTHORPE, WEST RUDHAM, KING’S LYNN, PE31 8SZ

1-5. Combined adm with The White Cottage

£6.00, chd free. Home-made teas and at The White Cottage. Dogs allowed. 2 acres planted in 2014 consisting of small walled cottage style garden with mixed shrubs, perennial plants and bulbs surrounding the farmhouse, and an adjoining wild meadow with mown paths, ponds, shrubs and species trees.

(NEW)

THE WHITE

COTTAGE,

POCKTHORPE, WEST RUDHAM, KING’S LYNN, PE31 8TD

1-5. Combined adm with Wensum Farmhouse

£6.00, chd free. Home-made teas and at Wensum Farmhouse. Dogs allowed. Surrounded by fields, this newly renovated garden designed by its owners, is in its infancy. Planting lends itself to a more naturalistic approach influenced by designers Nigel Dunnet and Noel Kingsbury. Plants mingle with each other displaying height and colour.

(NEW) WENSUM HOUSE, STATION ROAD, EAST RUDHAM, KING’S LYNN, PE31 8SU

1-5. Adm £5.50, chd free. Open nearby Wensum Farmhouse and The White Cottage. Partial wheelchair access. Teas at Wensum Farmhouse & The White Cottage. Dogs allowed. Historic Georgian house and garden previously owned by doctors attending the Royals at Sandringham. Approx. 2 acres with lawns, mature trees and woodland areas. Main walled garden comprises box hedge pathways, large cottage style herbaceous borders, rose arches and stream flowing through. Summer house and greenhouse.

Saturday 15th and Sunday 16th June.

HOME FARMHOUSE, 91 THE STREET, HINDRINGHAM, NR21 0PS

10-5. Adm £6.00, chd free. Home-made teas. Plants for sale. An imaginative, informal 2-acre garden, developed over the past 25 years with orchard, working potager, herbaceous borders, ‘white’ courtyard. Piet Oudolf style perennial and grass border, wildflower meadow and woodland walk. Featured in The English Garden Magazine June 2023. The garden will be hosting two ecopoets who will be performing their open-air piece ‘Something Light Written’.

Sunday 16th June

BOLWICK HALL, MARSHAM, AYLSHAM, NR10 5PU

1 - 5. Adm £6, chd free. Home-made teas. Partial wheelchair access. Plants for sale. No dogs. Landscaped gardens and park surrounding a late Georgian hall (not open). Original design attributed to Humphry Repton. Renovated borders, gravel planting and formal gardens. Enjoy a woodland walk around the lake and a stroll through the working vegetable and fruit garden with its double herbaceous border.

MANOR HOUSE FARM, WELLINGHAM, FAKENHAM, PE32 2TH

11-5. Adm £7.00, chd free. Home-made teas & refreshments. Partial wheelchair access. Picnic Area (but please not by the house) Dogs allowed Charming 4-acre country garden surrounds farmhouse. Formal quadrants, ‘hot spot’ of grasses and gravel, small arboretum, pleached lime walk, vegetable parterre and rose tunnel. Walled ‘Taj’ garden consisting of old-fashioned roses, tree peonies, lilies and formal pond. A variety of herbaceous plants.

Saturday 22nd June

47 & 51 NORWICH ROAD, STOKE HOLY CROSS, NR14 8AB

11-5. Combined adm £6, chd free. Homemade teas. Partial wheelchair access. No dogs. The gardens provide a variety of colourful & mixed planting, perennials, roses and annuals. Greenhouse with exotics, a small meadow & informal pond. Views over the Tas Valley.

Saturday 22nd, Sunday 23rd & Monday 24th June

SWAFIELD

HALL, KNAPTON ROAD, SWAFIELD, NORTH WALSHAM, NR28 ORP

10-5. Adm £6, chd free. Home-made teas & refreshments. Partial wheelchair access. Parking some distance from the garden. Dogs welcome. C16 Manor house with Georgian additions (not open) set within 4 acres which include parterre, summer garden, orchard, cutting garden, pear tunnel, secret oriental garden, a promenade of theatrical serpentine hedging, pond and woodland walk.

Home Farmhouse Hindringham

Sunday 23rd June

BROADWAY FARM, THE BROADWAY, SCARNING, DEREHAM, NR19 2LQ

11-5. Adm £5, chd free. Home-made teas. Visits also by arrangement. Dogs allowed. Half acre cottage garden surrounding C14 clapboard farmhouse. A plantswoman’s garden with colourful herbaceous borders containing a wide range of perennial and woody plants. A well planted wildlife pond.

27 ST. EDMUNDS ROAD, TAVERHAM, NORWICH, NR8

6NY

11.30 - 4. Adm £5 chd free. Light refreshments. Plant sales. Dogs allowed. Half acre garden featuring part woodland setting and view over Wensum valley. Redeveloped over the past 14 years when it was two separate gardens. Vine covered pergola, two summerhouses, herbaceous borders and vegetable plot with greenhouse and potting shed.

Friday 28th June

SILVERSTONE FARM, NORTH ELMHAM, DEREHAM NR20 5EX

Evening opening 6-8. Adm £6.50 Wine. Partial wheelchair access. Dogs allowed. Formal garden of 2 acres, home of designer George Carter, (described in Sunday Times as ‘one of the best garden designers in Britain’. Divided into interconnecting rooms with framed views and vistas and a simple palette of evergreen & deciduous trees and shrubs.

Sunday 30th June

KERDISTON MANOR, REEPHAM, NR10 4RY

11-5. Adm £6, chd free. Light refreshments. Partial wheelchair access. Dogs welcome. 2-acres tranquil garden surrounding the manor house (not open). Developed over 30 years. Mature trees, colourful herbaceous borders, dell garden, potager style vegetable plot, pond, and a 15-acre wild meadow walk. Thatched C18 barn.

WALCOTT HOUSE, WALCOTT GREEN, WALCOTT NR12 0NU

10-5 Adm £6 chd free. Home-made teas. Plants for sale. Partial wheelchair access. Dogs welcome. Visits also by arrangement in July. A 12-acre site with formal gardens planted around C19 farm buildings which include herb garden and white garden. Woodland and damp garden, small arboretum and tree lined vistas.

By Arrangement

Many of our gardens are open By Arrangement which means you can contact the garden owner directly to arrange a private visit.

Please visit https://ngs.org.uk/enjoy-aspecial-visit-to-a-garden-gem-with-ourby-arrangement-option/,

Before visiting a garden, we advise checking the website for any up-to-date information: ngs.org.uk

Wensum House

Nik Kershaw Comes To Norwich

NIK KERSHAW and his full band announce June & July 2024 shows coming to NORWICH - Epic Studios on Saturday 29th June!

The small but perfectly formed Nik Kershaw and his fabulous band are pleased to announce a handful of Summer shows at O2 Academy, Oxford on Friday 28th June, Epic in Norwich Saturday 29th June, and Roadmender in Northampton on Friday 12th July.

There will be a distinct lack of dance moves, lasers, pyrotechnics, Jazz hands or anything remotely to do with “showbusiness”. Very little sartorial effort will be made (minimal sequins or spandex). Just expect a great band, playing great songs, up close and in your face. It might get sweaty!

Just Hitz - You know the ones: Wouldn’t it be Good, The Riddle, I won’t let the sun go down on me, Dancing Girls, Wide Boy, Human Racing, Don Quixote, yada,yada,yada, and other Bitz, highlights from Nik’s 9 studio albums and his

career as a songwriter. Maybe even the odd cheeky cover version. Who knows?

Don’t miss this rare chance to see the man once described by Elton John as “the best songwriter of his generation” (disclaimer-Elton may have been off his tits when he said it).

NIK KERSHAW - June & July 2024 shows include:

Friday 28th June - OXFORD - O2 Academy

Saturday 29th June - NORWICH - Epic Studios

Friday 12th July - NORTHAMPTONRoadmender

All tickets are priced at £32.50 advance plus any BF’s / levy’s that may be applicable.

Tickets for the above shows are available from – https://www.thegigcartel.com/ Artists-profiles/Nik-Kershaw.htm

Photo By Steve Ullathorne

Norfolk Cheesy Charity Auction Has Lots Of Lovely Lots!

Charity’s ‘Cheesy Auction’ gathers lots of Lots!

Cheese, wine and a fabulous list of lots

Fancy a holiday in Tintagel? Or a painting by a Royal Academician? Or dinner for two at The Gunton Arms? Or the Gate of India? These are just some of the brilliant lots up for grabs at a Norfolk charity’s Auction of Promises - and the evening kicks off with a glass or two of wine and the chance to sample Mrs Temple’s Cheeses.

Other lots available on the night include handmade jewellery, flower arrangements by King.Whitham, a lino print, tickets for the theatre, a personal tour of Mannington Hall with tea for four, a holiday in the Cotswolds and a hand-crafted wooden stool.

The event, in aid of Hospice Ethiopia UK, takes place at St Michael’s Community Hall in Reepham on Saturday June 8th. Tickets, which include a cheese plate and a glass of wine, are available through Eventbrite and cost £10 plus booking fee - go to Eventbrite.co.uk and search ‘Charity Auction and Green Growth’ or visit

tinyurl.com/s5ykhpr5. Alternatively, tickets can be bought direct from the charity (with no booking fee) by emailing info@hospiceethiopia. org.uk.

“I’m so very grateful to all the people who have donated lots for the auction,” says Sue Mumford, chair of Hospice Ethiopia UK, which is based in North Norfolk. “It’s a fantastic list and we hope it will encourage our guests on the night to dig deep!”

Hospice Ethiopia UK, which is based in Aldborough, North Norfolk, exists to raise funds for the African hospice, which is the only one in Ethiopia, a country with a population of over 120 million. As well as looking after hundreds of desperate people and supporting their families, Hospice Ethiopia is a centre of excellence, training medics in palliative care so that they, in turn, can bring relief to thousands more patients. The Hospice receives no funding from government and relies heavily on the Norfolk-based charity to continue its vital work.

For more information on Hospice Ethiopia visit hospiceethiopia.org.uk.

Cluck By Alice Roberts Is In The Auction

Norfolk Auctioneer Extraordinaire

David Robinson

ICENI ANAGRAMS

This month’s anagrams feature contains five popular holiday destinations - don’t forget to email us your answers to be in with a chance of winning an Iceni Magazine pen!

Solve all five and send us an email to: submissions@icenimagazine.co.uk. UK residents only.

Entering the ALTAR ZONE, if you’re a Norwich City fan, you should find yourself at home.

ALIS CUT makes for a perfect honeymoon destination with a range of volcanic beaches and beautiful waterfalls.

Do you know the way to...? This AORTIC SAC contains the missing words.

James the Conqueror’s COMA JAR is popular with Brits of all ages. The Iberian Peninsula is home to the picturesque PLUTO RAG.