"Happiness? The colour of it must be spring green." Frances Mayes
Welcome to Issue 143 of Iceni Magazine!
This month, we're all about Spring Awakening. Curious about what you should be doing in your garden right now? Flip to Page 24 for some timely tips. Spring often marks the end of SAD for many, and the positive impact this season can have on mental health is truly remarkable (Pages 26 & 27). While you're at it, don't miss out on the Wellbeing Walks around Norfolk-details are on Pages 32 and 33.
In other news, dive into Charlie's unique experience at a beer spa (Pages 14 & 15), and see what Tim has to say about the new Subaru Forester (Review on Pages 10 & 11). With Mother’s Day approaching at the end of the month, Nova Silver offers some thoughtful and lasting gift ideas for the special women in your life (Page 17).
Until next time, we hope you embrace the beauty of Spring. Enjoy everything Issue 143 has to offer, and we'll see you in April!
Visit www.icenimagazine.co.uk
CONTRIBUTORS
Charlie, Iceni Home And Garden, Nova Silver, Susan Leigh, Tim Barnes-Clay, Trevor Langley, Vicki Jeffery.
Would you consider a relationship with someone who lived miles away?
There’s a lot to weigh up in these situations. Sometimes it may occur organically and you’re already in a relationship when your partner receives an opportunity to go away to study, work, or they receive an overseas posting.
Or you join an online dating site and gradually form an attachment, not initially minding that they live a significant distance from you. It may have seemed attractive, perhaps even convenient at the outset, with not too much disruption to your regular life, but as the relationship progresses it’s less easy to accommodate.
Long distance can be hard for several reasons. An important component in any growing
relationship is physical touch, however fleeting it may be; a pat on someone’s arm, a jokey nudge, a playful tap on the bum as they pass by. And then there are the cuddles that may or may not comfortably lead to something more. Also, non-verbal cues, like a wink, a meaningful glance, a subtle intake of breath, are more apparent and relatable to when you’re physically in each other’s company.
A growing sense of intimacy is enhanced through regular presence; enjoying a meal, laughing as you share the washing up, grumbling when the duvet’s being hogged or your sleep’s disturbed by your partner’s snores. Then there’s the natural toing and froing of conversation, perhaps remembering something you want to share, which can’t happen as easily long-distance. That affectionate kiss as you
leave in the morning or enquiring after their day happens naturally in person. So much has to be agreed and scheduled when trying to navigate a long-distance relationship.
Dealing with a lack of touch in a long-distance relationship can require patience and ingenuity. Using Face-time and Zoom can enable a couple to see each other and engage in intimacy, albeit from a distance. Sharing fantasies, describing how they feel, what they want on-line can go some way to help alleviate sexual tension and frustration. Planning themed meet-ups online can be fun and add a frisson to those occasions.
But it’s often the familiar hugs, the routine ‘leaving the house’ kisses or affectionate touches that are missed in a long-distance relationship. Various research papers recommend nine hugs each day as the optimal number for maintaining good emotional health. Being sure to hug friends and family members can compensate a little if you’re missing warmth and emotional touches in your life.
Maintaining an emotional bond can feel more contrived when it’s being done online. Emotional connection encompasses so many things, from the length of time you’ve been together, significant moments like anniversaries, birthdays, life events, as well as the times of illness, family crises, workrelated issues and special holidays. There’s a connection and shared bond formed during these experiences, as you gradually learn to tune into what each other is thinking and feeling, then discovering how various experiences affect each one.
Talking together as you share and listen constructively helps to build strong emotional connections, especially over a long distance. Being there for each other ‘through it all’, being reliable, supportive and their strongest ally also means that you sometimes have to appreciate those times when you give more than you receive, and other times when you’re the one in need of extra support.
Long-distance often requires extra effort, honouring plans to keep in touch on a regular basis and treating the relationship as an important priority. But sometimes there’s a need for greater tolerance, flexibility and understanding. If your partner seems busy, preoccupied or less available it’s not necessarily that there’s something wrong or they’re losing interest in the relationship. There may be other preoccupations, areas of stress in their life and they need their interaction with you to be light and fun, not filled with serious questions about what’s on their mind.
Effort is required to maintain a successful relationship when you’re apart for long periods of time. Life ‘at home’ continues for both, but when a pair are continuously detached from each other’s day-to-day lives both have to decide how much mundanity they routinely share with each other.
Irritations, like minor issues at home, may seem trivial, tedious or too irrelevant to talk about,
even though these are a normal part of daily life and possibly the most momentous thing that’s happened since last speaking. But, what to talk about instead? Losing the inclination and desire to chat or share thoughts, perhaps even becoming bored at the prospect of trying, gradually having less and less to discuss, being regularly late or unavailable, all are signs that the relationship is becoming too much effort.
Also, feeling under pressure to speak every day can place a lot of stress and tension on a long-distance relationship. Whilst it’s true that we make time for things that are important
to us, it’s also important to understand that sometimes life gets in the way. An ongoing, long-distance relationship has to fit into our regular lives, yet shouldn’t become an item on each day’s ‘to do’ list. Otherwise keeping in touch can become another chore, as opposed to an eagerly anticipated part of the day.
Some flexibility and understanding has to be applied, making allowances for each other’s schedules and timetables, appreciating that external demands may suddenly require immediate attention, or an unanticipated invitation might be something they’d like to attend. Having access to texting and What’s App can enable regular communication, without always having to talk. Texting without needing a reply, sending a simple heart emoji, or ‘thinking of you’, can be a special touch that brings a smile to the recipient’s face. Or sending a thoughtful gift of something they’d previously mentioned.
Positive feelings can be evidenced in several ways in a long-distance relationship. Remembering to follow up on your conversations, referencing what’s previously been discussed, provides reassurance that you’re loved and cared for, that your conversations are thought about after they’ve ended. Asking questions and showing an interest in what’s happening demonstrates ongoing interest.
Little touches and extra effort make all the difference in providing comfort and reassurance, especially in a long distance relationship.
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: https://www.lifestyletherapy.net
New 2025 Subaru Forester Review
Since its launch in 1997, the Subaru Forester has been a mainstay of the motoring world, with more than five million vehicles sold globally and over 400,000 cars shifted in Europe alone.
The 2025 iteration keeps momentum by mixing refinement with ruggedness to become the perfect companion for adventure.
The new Forester has been redesigned to express its all-weather performance with cleaner, simpler, and more subtle styling. The vehicle offers improved drivability and increased on and off-road capability over the earlier model.
It matches Subaru’s iconic symmetrical, alwayson, all-wheel drive system to an enhanced edition of the company’s renowned e-Boxer mild-hybrid power unit. It also boasts an improved X-mode terrain selection system and class-leading 220mm ground clearance.
The Forester offers three trim levels: Limited, Field, and Touring. The test subject here is the
£42,995 top-of-the-line Touring model, which is attractive with its glossy blacked-out exterior trim and 19-inch alloy wheels.
Indeed, the Subaru impresses with its new looks at first glance. The front grille adds a sense of width and solidity, capped by slender signature lights and blackout headlamps that give it a contemporary feel. Fresh LED cornering lights also increase night-time visibility by lighting up the front of the vehicle while turning, helping you spot potential obstructions sooner.
The side is defined by sleek lines interrupted only by pleasingly sculpted wheel arches that accommodate attractive alloy wheels, contributing to the Forester’s robust appearance.
The large-opening tailgate provides a spacious cargo area, which we’ll discuss further in a bit. Plus, details, such as a hummingbird design on the windscreen and paw prints on the door trim, contribute to the Subaru’s lively personality.
The new Forester comes with an 11.6-inch Full HD infotainment touchscreen with a resolution
of 1920x1080 to improve the usability of its features and controls. The system has increased connectivity through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto - and improved navigation compatible with what3words.
The Subaru’s 2.0-litre four-cylinder naturally aspirated engine delivers smooth acceleration and torque. The X-mode is ideal for going off the tarmac - and has settings for stuff like mud and snow. And you’ll be glad that the front seats are designed to minimise fatigue and maximise comfort during long drives. The cabin also offers class-leading quietness thanks to active acoustic engineering. This serves to create a serene environment.
Functionally, the 2025 Forester boasts an impressive 508 litres of boot space, expandable to 1,720 litres when needed. Features like the hands-free powered tailgate with a kick sensor simplify loading and unloading.
The redesigned Forester’s permanent symmetrical all-wheel drive and specially engineered e-Boxer mild-hybrid powertrain manage the power split between the electric motor and engine through seamless switching
between three driving modes: Engine, EV, and Motor Assist. This versatility enhances fuel efficiency according to driving conditions.
All Subaru Crosstreks have a factory warranty of three years or 60,000 miles. The traction battery has an eight-year or 100,000-mile warranty. Maintenance intervals are every 12,000 miles or once a year, whichever comes first.
Although it sells well globally, this model isn’t considered especially common in the UK compared with other vehicles, which adds to its appeal by ensuring you’ll stand out. Only time will reveal whether this sixth-generation Forester becomes the best-selling version to date.
Fast Facts - New 2025 Subaru Forester:
• Max speed: 117 mph
• 0-62 mph: 12.2 secs
• Fuel economy: 34.9 mpg
• Engine layout: 2.0-litre four-cylinder
• Max. power (BHP): 134
• CO2: 183 g/km
• Price from: £42,995 - as tested (Touring model).
By Tim Barnes-Clay.
DINING AT ATHENS GRILL
Both the city of Derby and the county of Derbyshire have a lot of interest.
Numerous visitors, from around the world, as well as residents, plus locals, find much delight in this area of the UK. If a short (or longer) break is required, then Derby and Derbyshire could very well be the answer.
Shopping facilities in Derby offer a great amount of satisfaction, with high street names, independent retailers and a vast number of businesses providing requirements for many people. If venturing out, then country houses
could be of interest. Restaurants and eateries have countless offerings and options. I located Athens Grill in Derby. This Greek restaurant (Est. 2023) quickly became recognised as a place to enjoy the authentic cuisine of Greece. The menu gained my interest.
To commence my Greek dining experience I selected Melitzanosalata (Aubergine puree dip) and Dakos (Crispbread topped with chopped tomatoes, crumbled feta, flavoured with herbs, with an olive atop). This (to me) was a perfect starter and captured my anticipation for the following dishes.
For the main ‘event’ I opted for Athens Grill Plate (Lamb Chops, Chicken Souvlaki, Pork
Souvlaki, Chicken Wings, Kebab, Greek Sausage, Grilled Onions, Mixed Peppers, Greek Salad, Rice, Chips, Triangles of Pita, plus White Garlic Sauce and Red Spicy Dip). The complementing flavours, tenderness and real pleasures that this dish gave were truly exceptional - ‘Compliments to Chef’. The Head Chef and kitchen personnel take great pride in offering perfectly cooked and presented dishes, always using fresh highquality ingredients. Other choices included Daily Dishes, Salads and Wraps, Skepaski, Moussaka, Vegetable Souvlaki, plus much more.
Dessert choices beckoned and I chose Baklava (Layers of Filo filled with Syrup, served with Ice Cream). This provided a most admirable ending to the dining experience, with a Freddo Cappuccino. Wines/drinks offer something for everyone and parties/occasions can easily be arranged. Occasional entertainment has regular attendees.
The breakfasts are very popular and collections/ deliveries also. Gift vouchers are availableperhaps for a special surprise?
A most enjoyable dining occasion and thank you to Sofia, for excellent service from start to finish.
I recently visited the UK’s first-ever beer spa at the Norfolk Mead Hotel in Coltishall, Norwich.
Yes, you heard right, a beer spa! And it’s only a short drive out of Norwich, situated in the Norfolk Mead Spa.
So, you’re probably thinking, what is a beer spa?
The History of the Beer Spa
Beer spas have been around for many years. The first beer bath recorded, dates back to the year 921, King Wenceslas the Duke of Bohemia (now the Czech Republic) had his servants prepare him cold brewery baths with wort from the nearby abbeys.
What is a beer spa?
Beer spas offer something a bit different to the standard day spa. They offer a unique beerinspired spa experience for the ultimate physical and mental relaxation.
There is long-standing belief that yeast and other ingredients in beer, including hops and barley, can provide many health benefits.
Benefits
Brewers yeast contains high levels of Vitamin B and active enzymes (carbohydrates and proteins) which aid in skin regeneration.
The warm water opens up your skins pores and then flushes out the harmful substances from your body.
The malted barley contains antioxidants and vitamins that nourish your hair and nails.
B vitamins help to restore the microflora in your intestines, which help to strengthen your immune system.
● Releases muscle tension and soothes arthritis symptoms
● Flushes toxins from your body
● Reduces stress
● Smoothes wrinkles
● Hydrates your skin and cleanses pores
● Hops have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties
● Supports digestion and metabolism
● Improves blood circulation
What happens at the beer spa
The beer spa consists of two rustic, wooden hot tubs which are situated in a private treatment chamber. Each hot tub comfortably seats two people, so it’s great for parties such as hen/stag dos.
For 45 minutes you can lay back and bathe in 35-37°C water which has a combination of antioxidant-rich malt, hops and their signature mineral salts.
As you lay back submerged in the warm bubbling water infused with all the skin and body boosting properties, you can really feel your mind and body relax.
Whilst you relax, you can help yourself to unlimited beer, as the beer spa has its very own beer tap - Crafted Woodforde’s Brewery Beer.
When your session has come to an end, you’re then able to rinse your body with warm water under the showers which are situated inside the treatment chamber. You can then slip into the complimentary robe and flip flops.
Final thoughts
I suffer with a lot of muscle tension, so for me this experience was sheer heaven. It was 45 minutes of pure relaxation. The warm water was the perfect temperature, it was so soothing. I loved the fact that you can help yourself to a tankard of chilled beer too, for the ultimate relaxation. Finally, I still can’t get over how incredibly smooth my skin felt afterwards. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would 100% recommend this treatment. I can’t wait to go back and try some of the other treatments they have to offer.
For more information or to book visit: www.norfolkmead.co.uk or call 01603 737 531.
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? Check out my Instagram - @ThePoutyLip
Mothering Sunday
With March comes the event of Mothering Sunday.
Every year this date changes unlike some of our other holidays such as Christmas, New years etc. This date changes every year due to taking place on the fourth Sunday, exactly three weeks before Easter Sunday. Originally from the middle ages, it was children who had left home to work were to come home to their immediate family’s church, also known as the mother church. The children would often take home small presents or pick flowers on their way home, and so Mother’s Day began.
This year Mothering Sunday is on Sunday 30th March. The gift of jewellery on Mother’s Day is a timeless sentiment. Gift ideas for you this year include our sweet infinity studs. At just £10, available in-store and online and crafted using Sterling Silver, this gift is sure to last the test of time.
The Infinity is a symbol that has been recognised for many years to represent the bond between two people: perfect for a loved one this Mother’s Day.
There are many different types of flowers that start to blossom in spring! We have many different flowers-inspired jewellery from silver to amber! One of the main flowers that tends to blossom this time of year is the bluebell, which we have a lovely necklace with matching earrings and studs in our Silver Creation collection! Bluebells are a symbol for humility and gratitude; this beautiful set can make a perfect thank you gift for a special someone. A piece like this may be your perfect gift to surprise a loved one this Mother’s Day.
Also, this month, Chalcedony is the birthstone for March; a gorgeous spring colour to add to your collection.
All of these ranges are available on our website with free delivery around the UK, and gift wrapping available.
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 February images of our stunning region.
Dawn Mountain - Gunton Fishing Lake
Nadine Gray - Pond At Mundesley
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
Dawn Mountain - St Benet's Abbey, Ludham
Dawn Mountain - Paddington BearCathedral Close, Norwich
Helen ChapmanSt Nicholas Church, Fundenhall
Focus On: Spring Awakening
As We Move Into Spring
We’ve all been through a long winter and the wettest twelve months since records began.
Consequently, there’s been the understandable temptation to stay cosy, hunker down and hibernate to get through it, to do little until things start to brighten up in spring.
Now, as we look forward to lighter days, many of us are ready to spring into action and enjoy some energy and enthusiasm. Does this sound appealing to you? If your goals and resolutions have dwindled away might now be a good time to resurrect them and start anew? A new week, Lent, a forthcoming event, anything can be used to motivate and start again.
Moving into spring is often accompanied by a myriad of adverts for holidays, influencing them to list everywhere they’d like to go throughout the next twelve months. They may consider day trips, weekend city breaks or something more
long haul, but it can be an important motivator to have these thoughts become clearer in your mind. Writing them down means they’re more likely to occur!
If the weather at home continues to be gloomy it could be a positive step to set some goals to action indoors. Batch cooking healthy meals for the week ahead removes the need to think about rushed, mid-week dinners. It also ensures that there are healthy, nutritious meals available and ready to go, far more satisfying and rewarding for everyone to eat home cooked food than takeaways and pizza!
Once the Christmas decorations are packed away our homes may look decidedly dark and shabby. Could this be a good time to direct some energy and attention and start paying some attention to décor, furnishings, lighting, use of colour and texture? Invest in some bright, cheerful colours; maybe prints, children’s drawings, photographs could brighten up your walls and surfaces.
Warm fabrics, like velvets and wool can make a room feel cosy and inviting. Also lighting is an important contributor to the ambiance of a room, with lamplight, wall lights and candles being more attractive than a more harsh overhead light.
Move things around. Changing the layout of your furniture, moving your pictures around can add a fresh feel to a room and allow you to once again see and appreciate what you have. When things remain in the same place for a long time they can become almost invisible! You scarcely notice them anymore.
Why not de-clutter your drawers and cupboards? You can take as long as you like to empty your drawers and even find long lost items! But it’s often a relief to clear out unwanted possessions, lighten your home and get rid of things you no longer want or need, maybe selling online or donating to charity.
Friends and family may have been neglected over the dark winter months, as we go into pit pony mode, leaving home and then returning back at night in the dark. We may even be relieved if meet-ups are cancelled and we can stay curled up at home. But inviting people round can give us an important nudge and ensure that our homes gets tidied, we stay connected, hospitable and are even forced to freshen ourselves up to meet them!
Theme evenings can be a fun entertainment suggestion as we move into spring. Maybe a murder mystery evening, a safari supper, board
games evening or even a glamorous dinner party where you ask everyone to dress up. Guests rarely mind being asked to contribute a dish or a bottle, making it a relatively inexpensive way to be sociable and have fun.
Set yourself a goal of reading a book each month, perhaps even starting your own book club, where your group comes round for coffee and some lively conversation each month.
If your personal circumstances have changed and you’re newly single, in a new home or job, spring can be a good time to extend your friendship base. Many places have special offers at this time. Check your local gyms, restaurants and clubs. Or you could discover what’s happening in the area, register on a few mailing lists and become the go-to guy for fun in your social sphere.
Wrap up warm and top-up your vitamin D levels by going for a brisk walk at a nearby beauty spot, a park, beach or river. Spring is a lovely time to go out in nature, as the spring flowers are starting to emerge, the snowdrops, crocuses and daffodils brightening up a cold day. Then you could extend your walk to include a drink, a bite of lunch at a country pub, or come home to a warm bath and an appetising casserole or hotpot that’s been slow cooking all day.
Spring is a time of new life and post-winter awakening, so allow yourself to make the most of what’s available and enjoy it all.
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: https://www.lifestyletherapy.net
Jobs To Do In The Garden For March
As winter begins to fade into memory and spring approaches, March is a pivotal month for gardeners across the UK.
With daylight hours extending and temperatures gradually rising, this is the time to prepare for a bountiful growing season. Below are some essential gardening tasks to carry out in March that will help ensure your garden flourishes.
1. Preparing the Soil
The foundation of any successful garden starts with healthy soil. In March, as the soil begins to dry out, it’s the perfect time to tackle any outstanding soil preparation tasks. Start by removing any weeds that may have emerged,
including perennial weeds, which can be more challenging to eradicate later. Once clear, you should turn the soil and incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve its structure and fertility. This enrichment is crucial for providing your plants with the nutrients they need as they start to grow.
2. Planting Seeds
March is the time when many gardeners begin sowing seeds both indoors and outdoors. For those who want to get a jumpstart on their gardening, consider planting seeds for crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and aubergines indoors in a warm, light location. Using heated propagators can help ensure germination, giving seeds the optimal environment to thrive.
Outdoors, you can start sowing hardy vegetables such as peas, broad beans, and spinach directly into the soil as the risk of frost begins to lessen. Towards the end of the month, you can also sow carrots, radishes, and early potatoes, taking care to check local frost dates to protect your plants.
3. Pruning
With the arrival of spring, now is the ideal time to prune various plants and shrubs. In particular, fruit trees, such as apples and pears, should be pruned. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to encourage healthy growth and airflow within the tree. Additionally, you should prune late-flowering shrubs as well as certain types of roses to promote new growth and prepare them for the upcoming blooming season.
4. Lawn Care
As temperatures begin to rise, your lawn will also begin to wake up from its winter dormancy. March is an excellent time for spring lawn care, which involves raking up any leaves and debris that have accumulated, as well as aerating the soil to improve drainage and allow nutrients to reach the roots. If your lawn shows any signs of damage from winter, March is the perfect time to overseed and fill in those sparse areas. Lawn fertiliser can also be applied around this time to provide the necessary nutrients for quick growth.
5. Planting Dormant Bare-Root Plants
March is suitable for planting dormant, bare-root plants like fruit bushes (such as raspberries and blackcurrants) and ornamental trees. Ensure that you soak the roots of these plants for a few hours before planting to revive them and encourage growth. Choose a sunny and well-drained site, and follow the planting depth guidelines for each specific
type of plant to ensure their successful establishment.
6. Maintenance Of Garden Structures
Take the opportunity to inspect and repair any garden structures that may require attention after the winter weather. This includes greenhouse maintenance, checking for any loose screws or broken glass, and cleaning out debris to prepare for the planting season. Clean any garden tools and sharpen blades to ensure they are ready for use.
Conclusion
March is undoubtedly a month of renewal and preparation in the gardening calendar. By dedicating time and effort to these essential tasks, you will set the stage for a vibrant and productive garden. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a novice, embracing the joys of early spring gardening can lead to gratifying results throughout the growing season.
So, grab your gardening gloves and start planning for a flourishing garden!
The Positive Impact The Arrival Of Spring Has On Our Mental Health
The arrival of spring is a joyous occasion, heralding not just a change in season but a significant uplift in our mental health and well-being.
After the often dreary and dark winter months, the longer days, warmer weather, and blossoming nature play a vital role in enhancing our mood and overall mental state. Here, we explore the various ways in which the arrival of spring positively impacts mental health.
1. Increased Daylight And Sunshine
One of the most noticeable changes in spring is the increase in daylight hours. Longer days expose us to more natural light, which has been scientifically proven to boost the levels of serotonin in our brains - a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of happiness and
well-being. Natural sunlight helps regulate our circadian rhythms, leading to better sleep patterns and improved moods. With brighter mornings and evenings, many individuals find themselves feeling more energetic and motivated, ready to take on the day.
2. Connection With Nature
As temperatures increase and the garden comes alive, spring offers the perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature. Research has shown that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. Nature walks, gardening, or simply enjoying a picnic in the park can introduce us to the calming effects of the natural world. The vibrant colours of blooming flowers and trees can stimulate our senses, facilitating emotional renewal and reminding us of life’s beauty.
3. Opportunities For Physical Activity
With the milder weather, spring encourages outdoor activities, which are essential for maintaining good mental health. Regular physical exercise releases endorphinshormones that create feelings of happiness and euphoria. Engaging in activities like walking, cycling, or playing sports not only improves physical health but also elevates mood, reduces anxiety, and combats depression. Spring's arrival inspires many to engage in outdoor pursuits, unlocking a world of physical and mental benefits.
4. Social Interactions And Community
Spring is marked by an array of social gatherings, from Easter celebrations to community events and festivals. This increase in social interaction can enhance feelings of belonging and strengthen relationships. Engaging in social activities often leads to improved mental well-being as it provides opportunities for laughter, support, and shared experiences. Community groups, gardening clubs, and outdoor classes are excellent ways to meet new people, fostering connections that enrich our lives.
5. Cultivating Mindfulness
The arrival of spring encourages us to embrace mindfulness, a practice known for
its mental health benefits. Observing nature’s awakening can promote living in the moment, helping to quiet racing thoughts and reduce anxiety. Activities such as mindful walking through blooming gardens or practising yoga in a sunlit park can enhance our mental clarity. Taking the time to appreciate the simple beauty of spring - like the sound of birds singing or the smell of fresh blossoms - can ground us, leading to improved emotional stability.
6. Motivation For Change and Growth
Spring is often associated with renewal and new beginnings, making it a perfect time for self-reflection and setting personal goals. The notion of spring cleaning - refreshing both our physical and mental environments - encourages us to let go of what no longer serves us, whether it be clutter, negative thoughts, or unproductive habits. This period of transformation can be a powerful catalyst for personal growth, inspiring us to pursue new interests, hobbies, or educational opportunities that foster a sense of purpose and fulfilment.
Conclusion
The onset of spring is a gift for our mental health, offering a nurturing environment for positivity and renewal. From the uplifting effects of natural sunlight to the invigorating experiences of connecting with nature and others, spring serves as a reminder of the beauty and joy that life can bring. Embracing this vibrant season can lead to tangible improvements in mental well-being, allowing us to emerge from the winter months refreshed and revitalised.
As we welcome the blossom and warmth of spring, let us seize the opportunity to nurture our minds and cultivate a more positive outlook on life.
The Importance Of Spring Cleaning: A Fresh Start For Your Home
As winter gives way to spring, nature comes alive in a riot of colours, scents, and sounds.
The longer, sunnier days beckon us outdoors, and the promise of fresh beginnings is palpable. In many cultures, this period is synonymous with spring cleaning - a timehonoured tradition that invites us to cleanse our living spaces in tandem with the world awakening outside. This annual ritual, whilst often seen as a chore, can have profound psychological benefits, transforming not only our homes but also our state of mind.
Why Spring Clean?
The concept of spring cleaning is as old as the seasons themselves. Traditionally, households would carry out a thorough cleaning to rid
their homes of the grime and dust accumulated during the colder months. However, spring cleaning transcends mere tidying; it’s an opportunity to reassess our relationship with our possessions, our living environment, and ultimately, ourselves.
Psychologically, a clean and organised space has been shown to enhance our mental wellbeing. Clutter can lead to feelings of anxiety and stress. When we clear away the old - both physical and metaphorical - we create space for new possibilities. Spring cleaning encourages us to reflect on what we truly need in our lives and to release what no longer serves us.
Steps to Effective Spring Cleaning
1. Set Clear Goals: Before you dive into the task, take a moment to outline what you hope to achieve. Are you looking to declutter specific
areas, deep clean your entire home, or perhaps rearrange your furniture for a fresh perspective?
2. Create a Schedule: Spring cleaning can feel overwhelming if tackled all at once. Break down the tasks into manageable chunks. Consider focusing on one room at a time, or even narrowing it down further to specific areas like closets or drawers.
3. Gather Supplies: Equip yourself with the right tools and cleaning supplies. A good vacuum, mops, cleaning cloths, and eco-friendly cleaning solutions will make the process easier and more effective.
4. Declutter: This is the heart of spring cleaning. Go through each room and assess items. Ask yourself if each item contributes to your happiness and wellbeing. Create piles for keeping, donating, and throwing away. It can be beneficial to involve family members in this process, encouraging them to declutter their own spaces.
5. Deep Clean: Once you’ve decluttered, it’s time to tackle the deep cleaning. Dust surfaces, clean windows, and scrub floors. Don’t forget areas that rarely receive attention, such as behind furniture and inside appliances. This not only improves the appearance of your home but can also enhance your indoor air quality.
6. Organise: After cleaning, take the time to organise what you’ve decided to keep. Invest in storage solutions such as bins, shelves, and organisers to maintain order. A well-organised space will be easier to maintain throughout the year.
7. Refresh and Revitalise: Add new life to your home by incorporating plants, fresh flowers, or even a new coat of paint. A simple rearrangement of furniture can also breathe new energy into your space.
The Benefits of Spring Cleaning
The benefits of spring cleaning extend beyond a clean home. It encourages mindfulness - a chance to slow down, reflect, and appreciate our surroundings. The act of organising can also lead to increased productivity and creativity, as a tidy environment paves the way for clearer thinking.
Moreover, spring cleaning can be a social activity. Invite friends or family to join in. Turn it into a fun day of cleaning and decluttering together; you might even end up swapping items that no longer serve you but could be of use to someone else.
Conclusion
Spring cleaning is an age-old practice that carries significant benefits for our mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. It offers an opportunity to not only restore order to our homes but also to cleanse our minds.
By embracing this seasonal tradition, you are not merely cleaning your living space; you are opening the door to fresh possibilities and a renewed sense of self. As you embark on your spring-cleaning journey this year, remember that every small step contributes to a brighter, more organised home. So, grab your cleaning supplies and let the transformation begin!
Three Great And Popular Gardens Are Opening For The National Garden Scheme This Month
Why not take the family out and explore spring bulbs and the early blossom?
Over on the east side of the county is East Ruston Old Vicarage which appeared on Gardener’s World last September.
Not far from Aylsham is the lovely estate of Mannington Hall where you can explore the landscape by taking the dog on a good country walk. Over on the west side of the county is the private home of Gayton Hall where you can enjoy meandering through a watery landscape.
Saturday 15th March 11-5.30
East Ruston Old Vicarage, East Ruston, Norwich, NR12 9HN. Adm £14.50, chd £2. Light refreshments in the restaurant. 32 acres of garden with traditional borders and modern landscapes. Discover the various types of gardens; walled, vegetable, cutting, rose, mediterranean and exotic gardens, topiary and box parterres. There are many water features, a fruit cage and well planted containers. Area of parkland and heritage orchard. Rare and unusual plants abound. No Dogs.
Saturday 22nd March 11-4
Gayton Hall, Gayton, King’s Lynn, PE32 1PL. Adm £6, chd free. Tea, coffee & cake. Refreshments in aid of another charity. This rambling semi-wild garden has over two miles of paths which meander along streams, bridges and woodland. Primulas, astilbes, hostas, lysichiton and gunnera grow along the water’s edge. There is a good display of spring bulbs. A variety of unusual trees and shrubs, many labelled, have been planted over the years.
Wheelchair access to most areas via gravel and grass paths. Dogs allowed.
Sunday 23rd March 11-4
Mannington Hall, Mannington, Norwich, NR11 7BB. Adm £8, chd free. Light refreshments in the Garden Tearooms. Home-made locally sourced food. Explore 20 acres of gardens which feature shrubs, lake and trees, period garden and sensory garden. Extensive countryside walks and trails from the garden. Wildflowers and birds are a plenty. Wheelchair access via gravel paths with one steep slope. Dogs allowed.
Before visiting a garden, it is advisable to check the website for Up-to-date information: www.ngs.org.uk
Mannington Hall
Photo credit: National Garden Scheme
ICENI ANAGRAMS
This month, all of the anagrams are related to Spring.
If you manage to solve all five, don’t forget to email us with your answers for a chance to win an Iceni Magazine pen. Solve all five and send us an email to: submissions@icenimagazine.co.uk. UK residents only.
