I C E N I N O R F O L K
ISSUE 94
Focus On: Mental Health
Lovely & Local Global Kitchen
6 Stress Busters
To Stop Feeling Anxious
Couples Workout (No Equipment Needed)
Best Of Norfolk
Through The Lens Of Our Readers
Welcome To Iceni Magazine, “February is the border between winter and spring. ” Terri Guillemets Welcome to Magazine!
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This month, we focus on Mental Health. Check out seven top reasons for walking your dog to beat the winter blues (Pages 54 & 55). Newcomer, Nade, brings us five ways in which to create a positive environment on Pages 46 & 47 – by following his advice, you’ll hopefully find yourself with a smile as beaming as his. Though February is known as the month of love, divorce occurs for a majority of couples. On Pages 44 & 45, relationship counsellor Susan Leigh offers sage suggestions on how to support your mental health following a marriage breakdown. Elsewhere, be sure to check out personal trainer Tiana’s advice on working out with your partner to ensure both your relationship and bodies are strong. Have a go at her workout (Pages 29-31), and don’t forget to send us some photos – it looks like fun! Regular columnist, Keri Beevis, discusses the nicknames her family members have on Page 15. What’s yours? Mr Iceni is also known as Mr Grumpy – no prizes for guessing why! We are no strangers to the negative feelings that come with being stuck in lockdown. However, we hope that you, like us, will be able to find some enjoyment in daily exercise and spending quality time with those in your bubble. Likewise, take some time to enjoy reading all on offer in this issue of the magazine. Until next month, continue to stay safe and look after everyone else by keeping your distance and following the rules.
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CONTRIBUTORS Becca Hamling, Cheryl Cade, Dr Margit Gabriele Muller, Gemma Sandwell, Keri Beevis, Matt Porter, Mark King, Missy Hitchcox, Nade Ward, Patrick Arundell, Scarlett V Clark, Serena Fordham, Susan Leigh, Thomas Hamling, Tiana Mia PT, Tim Barnes-Clay, Yellow Mysteries Entertainment.
Page 3 Image Benjamen Terry - www.definedetail.com
Disclaimer
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.
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Contents 64
pages
Full of absolute dynamic
creative content!
“You Reap What You Sow”
44
54
WHY WALKING YOUR DOG
SUPPORT YOUR MENTAL MENTAL
Can Beat The Winter Blues
After Your Divorce
30
48 58
6 STRESS BUSTERS To Stop Feeling Anxious
06 09 10 12 14 15 16 18 20
The Benjamin Foundation Monthly Update Iceni News The Mother's Day Club Iceni News Prioritising Your Eye Health Iceni News National Garden Scheme Iceni Columnist Mark King Iceni Columnist Keri Beevis Susan Leigh Sex And You Ex Nibbles & Tipples February Lovely & Local Global Kitchen
22 24 26 28 29 35 43 44 46
Motoring Review New BMW 4 Series Coupé The GadgetMan Review Edifier X3 Earbuds See What Mummy Says Valentine's In Lockdown! Nova Silver February Tiana Mia PT Couples That Work Out... Best Of Norfolk Readers Images Focus On: Mental Health Susan Leigh Support Your Mental Health How To Create... A Positive Environment
COUPLES WORKOUT (No Equipment Needed)
48 50 52 54 56 58 60 61 62
6 Stress Busters... To Stop Feeling Anxious Happiness Habits For... Success In Lockdown My Thoughts About... Mental Health Why Walking Your Dog... Can Beat The Winter Blues Missy Hitchcox Mental Health New Year, New Look & New Ventures Iceni Asks... What Does Your... Just For Fun 'A Slice Of Murder' Iceni Horoscopes What Do Your Stars Hold?
THE BENJAMIN FOUNDATION
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Issue 94 2021
The Benjamin Foundation The Benjamin Foundation is a local charity which helps people across Norfolk and Suffolk to deal with some of the challenges that life throws at them. Whether it’s the prevention of youth homelessness, providing emotional wellbeing support or providing positive activities for young people with limited opportunities, our work brings hope, opportunity, stability and independence to the people we support.
Step Out To Help End Youth Homelessness With The Big Winter Walk
Our Big Winter Walk continues in February and there is still time for you to take part to help local vulnerable young people take their next steps towards independence.
All those who register and take part in The Big Winter Walk will receive a Benjamin Foundation butterfly pin badge as a thank you. If you raise over £50, you will receive a Benjamin Foundation beanie hat. Raise over £150 and receive a special ‘Winter Warmer’ pack with a few extra goodies!
Walk this way to register! https://benjaminfoundation.co.uk/event/the-big-winter-walk/
Our Hot Chocolate Challenge
Sometimes the best way to get through a grey day is a nice hot cup of chocolate!
At The Benjamin Foundation, we're challenging you to create a delicious homemade hot chocolate. Post a picture or selfie with your yummy drink and donate £3 or what ever you can afford to help us end youth homelessness in Norfolk and Suffolk. Click here to take part: https://givepenny.com/appeal-for/tbf-hot-chocolate
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THE BENJAMIN FOUNDATION
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Issue 94 2021
Supporting The Mental Health Of Young People Our Heart and Home service is part of our work to give young people a safe home and support.
It comprises a network of Hosts, who are trained and supported by our charity to look after young people in the Hosts’ own homes. Hosts offer a bedroom, support, tolerance and understanding to young people, who are usually aged between 16 and 18, to provide them with stability and a safe place to live.
We work closely with Hosts, other agencies and local authorities to provide the young people with the support they need to become independent.
This includes providing them with important life skills, such as cooking, shopping and budgeting money, as well as supporting their education, training and career.
Ilhan* has been living with Heart and Home Hosts Julie* and Tony* for four months having been in the UK since November 2019. After going through challenges and experiences unimaginable to most of us, he is settling in well and is making good progress. Julie is a new Host with The Benjamin Foundation Heart and Home service, and it is clear that welcoming Ilhan into her home has been a hugely positive experience for her: “I didn’t know what to expect but it is so rewarding. So far, apart from Covid, there have been no big challenges, but we have had plenty of highlights. Even small things like cooking a meal together. It’s important for young people like Ilhan to have time to recuperate, to relax and to heal mentally after what they have been through. Ilhan also needs to be a young person again.” Can you support our Heart and Home service by becoming a Host?
Our essential work to give young people a safe home and support continues throughout the pandemic. Could you make the change to a young person’s life by becoming a Host? Enquire today on 01603 886930. * Names have been changed https://benjaminfoundation.co.uk/story/heart-and-home/ Twitter: @icenimagazine
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ICENI - NEWS
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Issue 94 2021
The Mother’s Day Club ~ Rosie Hendry ~ Published by Sphere | 18th February 2021 | Paperback Original | £7.99 Norfolk, 1939 When the residents of Great Plumstead, a small and charming community in Norfolk, offer to open their homes to the evacuees from London, they’re expecting to care for children. So when a train carrying expectant mothers pulls into the station, the town must come together to accommodate their unexpected new arrivals… Sisters Prue and Thea welcome the mothers with open arms, while others fear their peaceful community will be disrupted. But all pregnant Marianne seeks is a fresh start for herself and her unborn child. Though she knows that is only possible as long as her new neighbours don’t discover the truth about her situation. The women of Great Plumstead, old and new, are fighting their own battles on the home front. Can the community come together in a time of need to do their bit for the war effort? The Mother’s Day Club is the perfect wartime family saga, filled with heart-warming friendships, nostalgic community spirit and a courageous make-do-and-mend attitude. Perfect for fans of Ellie Dean, Sheila Newberry and Elaine Everest.
author of the East End Angels series, which is an uplifting and heart-warming saga series following the women who work for the London Auxiliary Ambulance Service. Listening to her father’s tales of life during the Second World War sparked Rosie’s interest in this period.
Rosie Hendry lives by the sea in Norfolk with her husband and two children. She is the
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ICENI - NEWS
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Issue 94 2021 Pictured left: Helen Hillis Optometrist Director at Coleman Opticians
Prioritising Your Eye Health Whilst So Much Time Is Spent On Digital Platforms In Lockdown So many people in January start the new year with great promises of keeping fit, eating healthily and reducing their alcohol consumption. But how many people prioritise their eye health? Working from home, education and even catching up with friends via video calls is vital during lockdown and many people have seen a complete change in their daily lives, as they become more reliant on digital platforms. Blue light emissions are not dangerous to the eye if it is in moderation but with time being
extended on digital platforms, it is important to give your eyes a break from the screen. Local independent Coleman Opticians, in their 76th year, are used to providing knowledge to their patients on the 20-20-20 rule to improve eye health but how many people are doing it? The advice means you should stop every 20 minutes, to look away for 20 seconds to something 20 feet away and allow your eyes to focus. Many of the patients at Coleman’s have reported difficulty in reading and increased headaches as well as poorer night vision during lockdown,
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ICENI - NEWS Issue 94 2021
and it is imperative that people still attend their regular health checks as well as calling if they have red eye, floaters or disturbed vision. Opticians are often missed off the essential health providers list but have been open throughout the pandemic catching many emergencies and being able to fast track them to the right department at the hospital as well as reassuring patients when all is well. Additional stress during the last year has thrown up a range of eye sight issues and the one thing people should definitely do is prioritise their sight. In early 2020, the team invested in two OCT 3D eye scanners, giving a 3D image of the eye, enabling them to identify any changes in the patient’s eye health, allowing them to identify changes in patients’ eyes, and giving them record of any problems as they arise that can be sent to the hospital if further attention is needed. Helen Hillis, director of Coleman Opticians, says ‘It is essential that people do not put off changes in their sight during lockdown, as we can identify many health issues by seeing patients early. We have fast tracked many patients to the hospital during lockdown, and we would always encourage people to contact us rather than ignore symptoms, as it could be serious’. So, whilst you may be focusing on full body workouts with Joe Wicks or going outside to get your daily exercise the message is to also spend some time on your eye health during this challenging time and make this a priority. For more information call: 01603 624564, email: info@colemanopticians.co.uk or visit: https://www.colemanopticians.co.uk/ PAGE
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ICENI - NEWS
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Issue 94 2021
Norfolk National Garden Scheme 2021
Bagthorpe Hall
Raveningham Hall
We are delighted to announce that there will be 72 Norfolk gardens welcoming visitors through their gates in 2021. The gardens opening for the National Garden Scheme will be offering something for everyone; from snowdrops in February, through to spring blossom, the scents of summer, and finally a blaze of autumn colour. We take a moment to look back at 2020, and the challenges that Covid-19 brought and continues to present in the coming months. Norfolk lost 48 open days due to the first lockdown period, but despite being unable to open, our resourceful garden owners created online virtual garden tours, and held plant sales. Some gardens were able to re-open in June with a successful online pre-booking system. Together with the online lectures and a Great British Garden party launched by National Garden Scheme President, Mary Berry DBE, the charity managed nationally to donate £2.88 million to their beneficiaries from 2020 efforts.
Norfolk NGS could not run without its amazing garden owners and volunteers, who generously give their time and access to beautiful gardens. Of a particularly high standard, the gardens provide inspiration and opportunity for contemplation to visitors. Never has there been a time so great for people to enjoy the health benefits that visiting a beautiful garden can bring. Gardens opening during February and March are listed below. To conform to social distancing rules, entry is by pre-booked tickets only and no refreshments will be available. Entry for children is free. For more information and to book tickets follow: https://ngs.org.uk/ find-a-garden 7th February 11am-4pm: Bressingham Gardens is a new garden for Norfolk, and offers 17 acres which visitors describe as ‘The best they have seen'. Follow the trail around the island beds of the late Alan Bloom’s Dell Garden, through the Fragrant Garden, and Adrian’s Wood with Giant
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Horstead House
Redwoods, to famous Foggy Bottom garden, with dramatic rivers of planting. 13th February 11am-4pm: Horstead House will show a stunning display of beautiful snowdrops and winter flowering shrubs. Another beautiful feature are the dogwoods growing on a small island in the R. Bure, which flows through the garden. 20th Feb 10am-4pm: Hindringham Hall’s garden surrounds a Grade 2* Tudor Manor House (not open) which is enveloped by a complete medieval moat plus 3-acres of fishponds. Visitors can walk around a working walled vegetable garden, Victorian nut walk, formal beds, bog and stream gardens. 21st Feb 11am-4pm: Bagthorpe Hall will once again be open for a delightful circular walk meandering through a stunning display of snowdrops naturally carpeting a woodland floor, and then returning through a walled garden. 1st March 2pm to 4pm: Sir Nicholas Bacon will host a guided walk around his private garden at Raveningham Hall. Described as a place of peace and quietness, the traditional
country garden, set within parkland, includes a restored Victorian conservatory, a working walled kitchen garden, herbaceous borders, spring bulbs and a recently planted stumpery. An arboretum was established after the gales of 1987, and there is also a millennium lake, and sculpture by Lady Susan Bacon. Only available through pre-booked ticket. 13th March 12pm to 5pm: The garden at East Ruston Old Vicarage is unique in the huge range of plants that grow there, from desert cacti to prehistoric tree ferns. This is firstly because of its location close to the North Sea where severe frost is a rarity and secondly the shelter belts surrounding the garden which further improve the microclimate. The garden is composed of many themed areas; some hugely busy and colourful, some quietly green and calming. 28th March 1pm to 5pm: Gayton Hall near King’s Lynn has been opening the garden for the NGS for over 40 years. The rambling semi-wild 20acre water garden, has over 2 miles of paths, and contains lawns, lakes, streams, bridges and woodland. In early spring, primulas, and spring bulbs bring wonderful colour. PAGE
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ICENI - COLUMNISTS
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Issue 94 2021
The Diary of a Norfolk Family By Mark King Life changes to the situations of the moment due to various factors like jobs, health, wealth, children, and over the last twelve months for the whole world, it’s been the Covid-19 frenzy. With everything that makes up our weekly routine on hold, and that we all have Above: Mark King taken for granted, and with limited opportunities to leave the home; it does not stop life going on. As we make new changes to our way of living, before you know it, they become part of your routine. For our family something that started off as a one off has over these last two months become a regular part of family life, and that’s the Sunday afternoon walk with Percy the dog. It started after both the children were bored and asked if they could order some fancy cream based drink online from the local Costa drive-through. They decided to go on foot rather than ask for a lift there, taking Percy with them for one of his
two daily walks that he enjoys. They wanted to get out of the house and have some fresh air, plus the drink and cake they had also ordered. They obviously enjoyed themselves because they asked if they go again the following Sunday which they dually did. Then one Sunday over the Christmas period, we all went out for a walk, stopping on the way to collect from Costa our on-line order. We all got some exercise, and Percy was so content with his walk that he ended up curled on the sofa afterwards, and didn’t move for the rest of the evening. So there it is, a new tradition has been started in the King household, the Sunday afternoon walk with the dog picking up a drink, and occasionally some cake. With talk of on-going lockdowns in some form or another to well into the summer, it looks as if this will be a regular weekly event for the family, and one I hope that will carry on well after we all come out of this nightmare situation sometime in 2022! www.always-hanging-around.blogspot.com Follow on twitter: @author_king
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ICENI - COLUMNISTS
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Issue 94 2021
Nicknames. Most Of Us Have Them. I have gone through much of my adult life known by many as Beev or Beevs, an obvious shortening of my surname. My brother on the other hand is called Bov by his close friends, which makes a little less sense. Perhaps Above: Keri Beevis they have their vowels confused or there is another explanation. My late dad claimed his teenage nickname was Maverick, brought about by his daredevil heroics. As I never heard anyone else refer to him by this, it could have been wishful thinking on his part. And then we have the more amusing nicknames. My sister - who, in her youth, had a rather unhealthy obsession with serial killers and death - was known as The Grim Reaper at college, much to her chagrin. Fear not, while it was a tad disturbing at the time, she joined the police and actually helps put the kind of villains I write about behind bars. The one person in our family I thought had never had a nickname is my mother. I learnt at the weekend though that this is not the case and apparently she is known by her friends as Last Minute Linda, which is quite possibly the most appropriate nickname ever, given that she has never shown up on time for anything. When we were at school, we were always the last kids to be picked up. If we are due anywhere, I guarantee she will arrive late, and, even as I type this, she is supposed to meet me later for a walk and I know she will be at least fifteen minutes late.
don’t know. We need a way to identify them, so they often end up having often longwinded nicknames that stick. Over the years I have had a real collection of characters living in my road, including Ginger Beard Man, The Couple Who had the Flood, Scouser Man, Short Tubby Couple with the Nice Plants, Chav Boy, White Cat’s Mum & Dad, Dressing Gown Lady, The Lady with the Really Clean Car, The Smokers, and The Lady with the Hyena Laugh. I am now starting to wonder if any of them have a nickname for me and I dread to think. Wine Bottle Lady or Crazy Cat Woman immediately spring to mind.
It’s not just family though. I was talking with a friend recently and we were laughing about how we refer to neighbours, especially the ones whose names we
My brand-new Christmas themed thriller, Trust No One, is out now and available in both paperback and kindle. Follow me on Facebook or Twitter for more information. PAGE
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SEX AND YOUR EX
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Issue 94 2021
Sex And Your Ex Most of us will have at least one ex. We may even have to see them from time to time, perhaps because of children, work or a shared social circle. At times it, might be painful, awkward or embarrassing, especially at first. But hopefully we gradually heal and come to terms with what’s happened, perhaps even becoming a little cynical or worldly-wise as a consequence. But what happens when, once all the acrimony has faded, and we’re feeling relaxed and more at ease in their company, have perhaps not been sexually active for a while, that we start to look at them in a more favourable light and think, ‘why not?’ How enticing might it be after a tough breakup, followed by a long period alone nursing your wounds, feeling increasingly unattractive that you meet up to discuss ‘something important’ only to find yourself vaguely attracted to him or her? A glass or two of wine later and there you are in bed together. After all, we know them so well and they know us. We’re familiar with each other’s likes and dislikes, don’t need to make an effort, are both consenting adults with needs, who and are desirous of a little sexual attention. There’s no confusion; it’s uncomplicated. But is it?
If you’ve not been intimate for a while, you may be missing closeness and sex, but is sex with your ex merely a temporary fix, holding you back from making the effort to move on? Whilst that may be fine as a convenient, ‘safe’ arrangement what appears to be a good solution on paper may also beg the question, at what point do you start to move on? When you first split up, you no doubt started to make plans, with great ideas that inspired you in your newly single life. You were enthusiastic about booking that training course, looking for a new job, becoming self-employed, getting toned, updating your image and couldn’t wait to get started. But ending up in the arms of your ex, even occasionally, may well put those plans on hold. Revisiting familiar territory can halt our enthusiasm, causing our motivation to stall for a time. It can become too much effort when there’s an exciting distraction in our lives, something that puts a smile on our faces! Not that long ago, we shared feelings, emotions and dreams. We loved each other, built a home, maybe family together. Having sex with our ex can gradually reawaken those feelings and trigger the sentiments involved, resulting in conversations that begin, ‘do you remember
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SEX AND YOUR EX
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when’ and ‘what about the time’, all cosy moments that awaken deeper emotions. Problems arise if we gradually start to expect more from the arrangement. It’s important to remember that this is not a relationship but more of a convenience for both. However, over time we might find ourselves eagerly awaiting texts, annoyed if they don’t arrive, wondering when the next hook-up might be, dreaming about where our future may lead. But our ex may well feel very differently about us now. Things are often said or done in the run up to a divorce, hurt and angry exchanges that cannot be forgotten. Those feelings we once described as love may have mellowed into, at best, a comfortable acceptance of each other because of our joint history. Sex and our ex is not necessarily about making love or rekindling the relationship but more about releasing stress and pent-up emotions in a familiar setting. We know each other, are comfortable with each other’s body’s, are aware of each other’s likes, dislikes and idiosyncracies. It’s easy and familiar. It may even have been that sex was a key part of the relationship, something that continually pulled us back together, even in the darkest days of the divorce. So, if you find yourself going down that familiar path maybe first protect yourself by setting some personal parameters.
Issue 94 2021
● Identify why your relationship failed and remind yourself of those reasons and the personal cost involved. Deal with any issues and find ways to improve how you feel about yourself, maybe by education and working towards qualifications, becoming more independent financially, toning up and updating your image or through therapy, where you resolve any behavioural issues, so increasing your confidence and self-esteem. ● Accept invitations and gradually start to feel better about yourself as you extend your social circle. Build your independence away from the home. Find time for things that interest you; maybe sport, an evening class, places where you meet people with similar interests to yourself. There may be limited options to meet in person at the moment, so go online and enjoy communicating and improving your social and conversational skills. ● Set reasonable goals for moving forward at your own pace. Finding a new home, job, circle of friends or support circle may all take time and cause stress initially, but take the pressure off yourself, accept help and be wary of looking to your ex for comfort, reassurance or sex out of loneliness or habit. Then if you do find yourselves enjoying each other’s company and end up in bed, it’s about genuine uncomplicated fun for both. But also remember that your intentions at the outset may change and result in serious complications further down the line!
Article By Susan Leigh Susan Leigh, counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor, has published her third book, 101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday (ISBN 9781910275160) based on her social media series. A glossy, pocket-sized book, it's full of inspirational quotes & pictures, a treat to give or simply keep for yourself. For more information visit: www.lifestyletherapy.net PAGE
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NIBBLES & TIPPLES
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Issue 94 2021
Nibbles &Tipples February Article By Cheryl Cade, Beer Educator Although a historic art, my first experience of aging beers was in Antwerp. Hidden in a side street is a bar called the Kulminator, nothing special on the outside, but it was becoming known as a mecca for beer. They had two beer menus, 1 thin but a good selection of regular beer. Whereas the aged/old beers had a large book. It was a bit like playing Russian roulette with beer, yet 15 years later, I still remember the 25-year-old Hardy's we had. It was like drinking a Christmas cake. If you would like to try it, here are a few of my tips and guidelines. Golden Rule, Strength: anything stronger than 7% ABV can age for a few years.
Temperature, You want somewhere that does not fluctuate in temperature. Ideally, anything below 10° is good. My understairs cupboard is never above 12° Light, as with wine, you do not want light getting in. Storage, if they have corks, you can lay these down, but if they have bottle caps, it’s better for them to stand in a bottle box. What to age? Ciders, Anything that has been barrel-aged already is ideal and naturally fermented. Barley wine is a beer traditionally aged. Hardy’s ale is sold with this is mind. Locally try, Lacons Audit, or Humpty Dumptys, Christmas Crack.
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NIBBLES & TIPPLES
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Issue 94 2021
Christmas beers, Christmas beers tend to have spices added. Cinnamon and cloves are always a dominating flavour but it mellows over time allowing others to come through. So I find these are better after a year. Sour / Lambic / some Barrel aged / Gueuze, these tend to have wild yeast and even if lower in ABV, they will age as the yeast will continue to eat the sugars. Orval beer, this Trappist beer has Brettanomyces yeast added at the bottling stage. This means it is a beer that will change over time. My personal favourites are 18months and 5 years old. Don’t age Hoppy beers, the hops essential oils fade after 6 months and in some cases, the flavour becomes cheesy. Kettle sours, these beers have had lactic acid added to them. I tend to find they get sharper and unbalanced. Beers lower than 6%, normally these don’t do well; they may become cardboardy, oxidised or musty. Top tip Buy more than one. If the budget allows I buy four, allowing me to,
I age most of my beers for about five years, but in my cupboard, I have beers that are 30 years old. These are treats for special occasions or just when you need a hug in a glass.
● sample one and make some notes before you store it. ● a year later, you can taste the next one to see how it is doing. Is it tasting oxidised? Do you think it could last longer? Will it improve?
Cheers, until next month. Cheryl Visit: https://cherylcade.com
● Two years after this, try again. ● In some cases, you will then try it again in five years and wish you had bought more. PAGE
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LOVELY & LOCAL
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Issue 94 2021
Lovely & Local Global Kitchen Lovely and local is not just about producers; we like to look at what happens to it. I first encountered Global Kitchen at the Rosebery, a newly reopened pub in the north of Norwich. Global Kitchen was doing a pop up to help the pub stay open during Covid restrictions. I tried the Katsu Curry, which was light, gently warming with fresh spice, perfect for a chilly wet evening. Later, I was talking Karen Black (EcoNetwork) about food in the area. Global Kitchen came up as a business that uses local produce but also helps charities in the area. So, I knew I had to find out more. One thing I had not expected based on the quality of the food was how young the business was and
also the leap of faith Helen, chef and owner, had taken. Helen set up Global Kitchen in June 2020, after her travel business suffered from the impact of Covid. During 12 years of working in the travel sector, she had always been seeking out new cuisines and learning traditional recipes handed down over generations. This led to the development of an idea to take people on food tours to places like Georgia, Turkey or India in small groups to learn these recipes, explore local markets and make new friends. This is still a plan but now, it will be interwoven with Global Kitchen. Global Kitchen has allowed her to take this love of travel and food an put it on a plate, especially at a time when we can only dream of far-flung places.
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LOVELY & LOCAL
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Issue 94 2021
One of the things Helen felt was very important was to follow the ethos around the world of using as much produce you can find locally, ‘There are some absolutely fantastic suppliers in Norfolk and I always try and support local businesses as much as possible. Some of my favourite local companies are Easters, Meadow Harvest Farm in Cringleford, and I buy my spices from Kuzma Spice Shop in Norwich, which is like an Aladdin’s Cave.’ Helen’s other ethos is to help others while limiting waste, so if there are any portions left from her takeaway business, she delivers these to friends and family, with the remaining taken to The Norwich Soup Movement. Like all of the hospitality sector, Helen finds the uncertainty of the current restrictions to be a worry, but she is looking forward to doing more pop-ups in 2021 especially festivals, because, ‘I really enjoy meeting people and serving food to customers face to face - that is part of the joy of sharing my recipes.’ Helen is also looking for other local businesses that she can work collaboratively with, like Mysabar as she did before Christmas, in the
Castle Gardens, supporting local brewers and other food retailers. Helen would like to thank her family, friends, clients from her travel business and everyone at Hempnall Mill Centre for all of their support and encouragement. Dad deserves a special mention for being a ‘rock’ especially with the development of the caravan. If you would like to find out more check out Facebook, GlobalKitchenNorfolk
Article by Cheryl Cade Visit: https://cherylcade.com PAGE
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MOTORING REVIEW
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Issue 94 2021
New BMW 4 Series Coupé Review
rnes-Clay on a B im T t, s li a n g jour @carwriteups. : r Follow motorin te it w T d n a arnesclay Instagram: @tb With the latest weight-saving chassis tech, mild hybrid technology and the availability of a specialised M Sport Pro Package, the allnew BMW 4 Series Coupé will, doubtless, raise the standard in the premium midsize automotive segment.
The BMW produces 374PS, so standstill to 62mph arrives in a mere 4.5 seconds and its allout speed is 155mph. Put it like this; overtaking is never a problem in a motor with this much thump. But does it make you drive like an utter “bleep”? Erm, yes, to be frank.
The model is longer and wider than its predecessor, yet just 6mm has been added to its height. It has bigger track widths, slender pillars, short overhangs, lengthy doors with frameless windows, and a fluid roofline.
The slightly slower but sassy 420d M Sport is perhaps a better bet if you’re worried about losing your licence - and your pride. With a zero to 62mph time of 7.1 seconds and a max speed of 149mph, the 190PS motor has sufficient pulling power to keep you absorbed. But it’s conformist enough to mean you’re less likely to end up with a driving ban.
However, the defining feature of the car is the king-size kidney grille. I like the look - but some people won’t. No surprise there, though. BMW is always designing cars that divide opinion. Anyway, enough about the 4’s looks - what’s the brand new Bimmer like to drive? The flagship BMW M440i xDrive Coupé is a rapid machine, with the bonus of all-wheel drive. The car bursts along the straights and attacks corners fearlessly but frantically - if you want it to.
The 4 Series Coupé’s handling is outstanding, and the steering accuracy is remarkable. Only the tiniest of inputs generates a detectible difference to your direction. Yep, that’s how sensitive it is. Mostly, it's an athletic motoring experience, but the “M” suspension doesn't do a great job of masking scarred road surfaces at all. However, it makes tackling snaky roads exhilarating, with
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MOTORING REVIEW
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Issue 94 2021
the suspension practically eradicating body roll. This gives you the confidence to navigate corners accurately without scrubbing off too much momentum. Add intelligent four-wheel drive to the recipe, and you have a BMW that doesn’t have any plans to abandon the asphalt any time soon. It sharpens the vehicle’s driving properties, sending power to the wheels as needed. Where all-wheel drive is not required, all the clout is pointed to the rear wheels - guaranteeing the first-class motoring experience for which BMW is well-known. Inside, the cockpit is equipped with top levels of quality and controls that are in all the zones you'd like them to be. It’s a typically admirable effort from BMW. However, the new 4 Series Coupé’s rear headroom isn’t the best. I sat in the stern and
The 4 Series Coupé’s handling is outstanding, and the steering accuracy is remarkable. had to duck down to get in. Happily, the twodoor, four-seater car’s knee room is more munificent. The back of your bonce will still graze the headliner, though. But there won’t be any worries for smaller passengers, and tots will have lots of space. Well, two of them in their respective ISOFIX anchored child-seats will. Up front, there's a lot of room for driver and passenger. As for the new BMW’s boot, this has been increased to 440-litres - and it’s handily deep for loading lengthy items. What’s more, the 40:20:40 split backrest can be folded to enhance cargo-carrying room. Fast Facts - BMW M440i xDrive Coupé as tested: • • • • • • •
Max speed: 155 mph 0-62 mph: 4.5 secs Combined mpg: 41.5 Engine layout: 2998cc six-cylinder turbo petrol Max. power (PS): 374 CO2: 163 g/km Price: £53,875 PAGE
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THE GADGETMAN
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Issue 94 2021
Edifier X3 Earbuds Great Value Compact Bluetooth 5.0 Earbuds With APTx 2021 has arrived and with it comes a bit of a feeling of Groundhog Day. Deep into the third lockdown, many of us long for time to spend alone as we remain cooped up with each other, riding out the Covid-19 storm. Although our lives have changed, we still have music to fall back on when we need some downtime or just want to switch off from the stresses of the ‘new normal’. I’m no different from most other people and I find listening to music or audiobooks a great way to relax. So, those marvellous people at Edifier sent me a set of earbuds to review in the shape of the Edifier X3. A set of buds with an incredibly short name but packed with an incredible array of functionality at an incredible price too!
The X3s come in a small unassuming package which includes a Micro USB charging cable and charging case. The buds pop into their magnetised holders in the black plastic charging case which provides them a full charge in about 2 hours. Once charged, they will play for 6 hours before needing to recharge. The charge case provides 3 full recharges or 18 hours of playback time. The case itself takes about the same time to reach full charge. When plugged in, the case has a small led indicating it is powered, but that’s about all. When you take the buds out of the case, they immediately pair with each other and play a beep to confirm this; the same happens when you pair to a mobile device. They use Bluetooth 5.0 and also support APTx, so if your device supports it (mine did), this is enabled too.
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THE GADGETMAN
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Issue 94 2021
APTx is a method compressing audio before transmission and decompressing It again when it arrives at the earbuds, this allows for higher quality audio to be played back through the earbuds. Included in the box are 3 sets of rubber earbuds to suit the size of your ear perfectly. Once fitted, I found they fitted very comfortably and provided excellent quality audio with really surprising amounts of bass. The earbuds also contain microphones for use as wireless headsets with your mobile device. There are also small led indicators in ear bud, but they were so bright as to distract you or people around you. Music can be controlled via your device, or you can make use of the inbuilt touch sensitive controls on the earbuds, which allow you to pause and restart tracks, skip or rewind tracks or a long press will summon your chosen voice assistant. Volume cannot be controlled via these controls, that is handled by your device.
These earbuds are around £30 to buy and I have to be honest in saying I really think they are great value. I wear these buds every day and often to listen to them at night and have fallen asleep in them many times without waking up with sore ears! Their sound is great and the noise cancellation, either using their software or simply the very snug fit in the ear does shut out noisy children or co-workers. I think they are a bargain if you are looking for a set of buds that don’t break the bank. You can purchase the Edifier X3 earbuds from Amazon by scanning the QR Code below.
Keep Staying Safe, Matt www.thegadgetman.org.uk
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SEEWHATMUMMYSAYS
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Issue 94 2021
Valentine’s In Lockdown! For some, Valentine’s Day will be very different this year. They won’t have the option to visit their favourite restaurant or spend an evening away with a loved one. For us, it probably won’t feel too different. We have, since the children arrived, had a meal at home to celebrate the day. We used to buy a three-course meal offer from a supermarket, but more recently have enjoyed creating our own menu and cooking it all ourselves. Most of the daytime will feel much like any other at the moment, with the added bonus of Valentine’s falling on a Sunday, so there won’t be any home-schooling in sight! I suspect we’ll enjoy some family time throughout the day, with board games and perhaps a long walk to tire out some young people ahead of the evening.
As the evening approaches, the children will sit down to eat. Usually we try and eat at the same time, so we have in previous years eaten a starter when they are tucking into their main course. Then, the bedtime routine before attempting to return downstairs. After a few extra conversations with the children, groans of sudden tummy aches, toilet breaks and any other bedtime delaying tactics they can think of, they drift off to sleep and are now unlikely to cause too much bother before the morning. The same can’t be said for the smallest. At six months old, he’s definitely going to need feeding or get grizzly at some point in the evening, but trying to fit in food for ourselves and other household tasks has almost become somewhat of a challenge in itself these days! Recently, we planned a ‘date night’ which I believe we will almost copy and paste for Valentine’s this year. We have particularly
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SEEWHATMUMMYSAYS Issue 94 2021
fond memories of our last holiday abroad to Greece and the food we enjoyed there. Trying to replicate the mixed grill from our first evening out in Tingaki was a huge success, and one that we’re keen to try again. For anyone that doesn’t enjoy cooking or is going to miss out on someone else cooking for them this year, how about supporting a local business? There’s a huge variety of restaurants delivering now and supporting them now will help to ensure they’re still around to greet you when they can re-open. Whatever you do this Valentine’s Day, we hope it’s filled with love and laughter, even in these very unusual times. Thank you for reading Tom & Becca www.seewhatmummysays.com @whatmummysaysuk PAGE
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NOVA SILVER
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Issue 94 2021
Nova Silver February is the month of love and here at Nova Silver, we like to give you lots of options to help you show your loved ones just how much you care.
The roots of Valentine’s Day can be traced back thousands of years. Pre-Christian Pagans were known to celebrate a festival around this time of year, which involved lots of drinking, dancing and, ahem, nudity, and it’s thought that the Christian church appropriated the festival, rather than trying to wipe it out. It’s thought that it wasn’t until the 14th century that Valentine’s day became associated with love, and not until much more recently that it has become come to be a celebration of romantic love. It’s now known a day to show your love and appreciation to your spouse or partner, and just lately the rise of ‘Galentine’s Day’ reminds us to show our love to our friends too. Rose quartz is said to be the stone of unconditional love. It’s a lovely stone with a pale pink hue that is thought to encourage the wearer to feel the love from other people and remind them to show that same love towards themselves. It’s also a really versatile stone to wear and seems to go with everything! Amethyst has a purple colour that ranges from light to dark and also happens to be the birthstone for February. It’s a stone that is thought to encourage creativity and passion, as well as strengthening imagination and intuition. We’ve also got a brilliant selection of sterling silver, ranging from more classic hearts to pieces that are a little more unusual. We’ll even gift wrap the present and post the jewellery straight to your door at no extra charge. What’s not to love?
Contact Details:
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Email: info@novasilver.co.uk
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TIANA MIA PT
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Issue 94 2021
Couples That Work Out Together Stay Stronger Together We live in such a strange time when we are so restricted and our health and relationships are challenged every day. There is a very common saying “couples that work out together - stay stronger together” My other half and I are firm believers of this as being on the same page and pushing each other to get out of bed and get moving day in and day out. Here are few reasons WHY couple’s fitness is a thing! • Safety: Fitness is always safer with a buddy! Someone to watch your form and spot you if needs be. • Quality Time: With crazy schedules, it’s hard not to find time to be together! Make the time and get your fitness on!
• Motivation & Support: If you both make fitness a priority, you can motivate and support each other! I know I will kick my other half out of bed and he will do the same to make sure we get our workouts done! • Balance: If one of you is really into cardio and the other prefers strength training, pairing up and helping the other out is a great way to help balance out your workouts!!! • Endorphins: Exercise is known to release endorphins. Sweating together will give you both a jolt of happy! • Memories: We love challenging each other especially trying out new exercises that neither of us have done before and it nearly always ends up as a comical scene. Sometimes it becomes an in-joke and it carries the fun into our day.
• Common Interest: You can never have enough shared interests! Find something you both enjoy that is active, think outside the gym! Bike rides, Running, Hiking…
Article By Tiana Mia PT continue reading overleaf for a couples workout.
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TIANA MIA PT
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Issue 94 2021
Couples Workout (No Equipment Needed) Workout By Tiana Mia PT - Follow on Facebook: @TianaMiaPT
Warm up for 5 minutes with calisthenics (jumping jacks, run in place, maintain climbers, squats, lunges)
Squat hold and high knees for 4 sets of 30 seconds (while one is holding squat the other is performing high knees, then swap and repeat alternating the exercises) Press-ups and Claps 3 sets of 10 (lying flat on the floor, palms besides your shoulders, press up holding your whole body in straight line and reach out for a clap. Repat press-ups 10x alternating hands you clap with) PAGE
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TIANA MIA PT
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Issue 94 2021
Kick-ups 3 sets of 10 (laying on your back head-to-head, connect your arms and kick your lower body up reaching for each other’s toes) Burpees and Claps 3 sets of 10 (Get down in a high plank position, then jump up on your feet standing tall and give each other high five, return into high plank position and repeat it all with explosive movements)
Just for fun try this! Leg Press and Core Balance
Finishing off with cooldown & stretching (always stretch out after every workout. With a partner you can make an ordinary stretch routine into much more intensive one ;) ) PAGE
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THE HEMPORIUM SHOPS
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Issue 94 2021
The Hemporium Shops The world of hemp and CBD has always been a fascinating one. Following the UK’s decision to legalise the use of CBD in November 2018, interest has exploded.
transforming the industry for the region as well as increasing education on the matter. CBD is an organic product made from the whole hemp plant except the buds.
In mid-2019, Hunstanton welcomed The Hemporium Shop to its high street with a mixture of curiosity and excitement. Owner, Holger Levey, believed that it would offer Norfolk residents something unique and beneficial. He must have succeeded as he has also been able to branch out into other areas within our county (Wells-Next-TheSea, Norwich, Burnham Market and Holt sister business Amber Organics), with plans to expand even further afield.
Often, when people discover that it is a chemical component of the cannabis plant, many are dubious, concerned about the after-effects of taking or using anything containing it. However, it is crucial to note that THC, the ingredient which makes people ‘high’, is either not included at all or only 0.2% is present.
Earlier that year, following a chance meeting with an Irish importer of Spanish products, Holger’s interest in CBD grew. Shortly after brainstorming ideas, the business was granted wholesaler status for Norfolk and set about
The shop stocks a wide range of CBD items, so you are guaranteed to find something that takes your fancy. Hot drinks are popular options with teas, coffees and even hot chocolates on offer. More regular products, such as oils, capsules and balms can be purchased here too. The CBD oil is available in a range of strengths, catering for all needs.
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THE HEMPORIUM SHOPS
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Products containing CBD - formerly known as cannabidiol - are said to be beneficial for those who suffer from: • • • • • • • •
Anxiety Depression PTSD Fibromyalgia Insomnia Arthritis Diabetes Parkinson’s
Issue 94 2021
The Hemporium, as the name suggests, also stocks a range of items created from hemp. From hand cream to lip balm, shopping bags to dog treats, there is a good range available here. In a relatively short period of time since their inception, the business has experienced turbulence, just like the rest of the world, as a result of the global Covid-19 pandemic.
While no one at the Hemporium Shop will ever claim that their products are a cure to any illness, many satisfied customers will testify that they have seen improvements relating to their health since using them alongside other forms of treatment and therapies.
However, this hasn’t stopped it from ploughing on and supporting people with their CBD needs, many of whom have found some form of relief to their mental health concerns that these events have created. While right now, you cannot visit the stores in person, it is still possible to buy online.
When asked why someone should consider using one of the products available from their stores, Holger said, “The desire to try and buy CBD always has to be each individual’s own decision.” This response reflects the brand’s ethos, whereby customers are encouraged to do their research and make up their own mind. No pushy sales techniques are in operation here.
Check them out! Website: thehemporiumshops.com Instagram: @hemporiumnorwich
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BEST OF NORFOLK Issue 94 2021
Best Of Norfolk - Through The Lens Of Our Readers Thanks to a huge influx of photographs from our followers on Facebook, have a look at these marvellous January images of our stunning region.
Simon Rudd - A Chilly Walk Near North Walsham
Charlotte Watlow - Happisburgh PAGE
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BEST OF NORFOLK Issue 94 2021
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Kate Levine Cooksey - UEA Lake
Christina Brown - Heacham PAGE
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Issue 94 2021
Charlotte Watlow - Happisburgh Lighthouse
Helen Croxall - Rising Waters
Carolin Pocock - Beautiful Wood Pecker In Our Back Garden In Silfield PAGE
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BEST OF NORFOLK Issue 94 2021
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Simon Rudd - Bacton
Fay Moore - The Only Pedestrian. Wickmere To Thurgarton, On A Frosty Sunday Morning
Maria Holloway - View From My Window In Hackford
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BEST OF NORFOLK Issue 94 2021
Mark Spurgeon - Classic Victorian Letterbox At Tunstead Snapped On My Daily Walk In Lockdown
Rachel Farrow - Great Moulton, Norwich PAGE
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BEST OF NORFOLK Issue 94 2021
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Helen Croxall - Rising Waters
Nade Ward - The Lanes Of Norwich City Centre PAGE
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#RookieG Photography Edits Happisburgh Beach
BEST OF NORFOLK Issue 94 2021 Kate Levine Cooksey - The River, Earlham Park
Simon Rudd - Felmingham
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 PAGE
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Focus On: Mental Health
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SUPPORT YOUR...
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Issue 94 2021
Support Your Mental Health After Your Divorce Divorce is an all too familiar part of modern-day life, but that unfortunate reality doesn’t make it any less distressing when it happens to you. No one gets married anticipating their relationship will end in divorce, and the breakdown of a relationship can be tough on all concerned. Getting divorced can, for a time, significantly affect your mental health. For some people, their divorce may have been gradually gaining momentum for quite a time. Lack of common ground, disinterest, boredom plus an increased lack of respect may have meant that the couple have simply been sharing the same roof, but little else. Then there are those who may have felt that their relationship was fine until a request to divorce hit them like a bolt out of the blue; shocking, devastating and completely unexpected. Yes, living together requires hard work, compromise and open channels of communication in which to discuss irritations and disagreements, hopefully then arriving at a better understanding. If that doesn’t happen, perhaps for many valid reasons like work, children, feeling stressed or too tired, it can be
all too easy to slip into an auto-pilot existence, going through routine daily activities, collapsing into bed at night and then repeating it all again the next day. Sound familiar? But living like that brings its own stresses and pressures, which can ultimately impact on our relationship and our mental health. If we increasingly feel invisible, less important than everyone else, stressed, with little time, money or energy to do what we want or would like to do, it can introduce a frumpy, unattractive, boring mindset, where we almost stand back from engaging fully in life. We may not even recognise ourselves in our early wedding photographs: whatever happened to that person? How many of us start our marriage with the mantra, start as you mean to go on? But, as the honeymoon phase wears off, it’s often replaced by everyday reality, with relationship growing pains often being experienced; little doubts, uncertainties and criticisms may be forthcoming. The weary ‘why don’t you?’, ‘I wish you wouldn’t’, the raised eyebrow or sigh may be signs that our partner has become somewhat exasperated by our quirky habits or behaviours.
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SUPPORT YOUR...
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We may be able to work through tensions, talk them out, but for some people receiving criticism or rejection from someone they love can be the ultimate rejection, where they feel obliged to try harder, be better, improve and do more. And if that doesn’t have the desired effect, where do they go from there? It’s often a massive blow to their confidence and self-esteem as they see themselves heading for divorce! People who’ve been living in a loveless or disapproving, highly critical relationship for a long time may well experience a significant erosion of their mental state; depression, low mood, sleeplessness, poor self-confidence and self-belief are not uncommon as a consequence. Let’s look at ways to support your mental health after your divorce: ● Share how you’re feeling with a trusted friend or confidante. It’s good to have an ally who’s there to offer support and reassurance. Or your GP or spiritual adviser may be a valuable source of assistance. Equally, booking time with a therapist could be a positive way to unravel some of the negativity that’s built up during the deterioration of your relationship and subsequent divorce. ● Accept that your ex-partner now feels differently about you and the relationship, an opinion that’s been shaped over time, encompassing many different experiences. Their opinion of you is simply their perspective. It doesn’t define who you are. You both changed and grew apart over time, which lead to your divorce.
Issue 94 2021
● It’s often necessary to make quick decisions after a divorce, in particular concerning living arrangements, schooling and earning money. Try to avoid major, hasty decisions that could have long-term implications and instead maybe house share with a friend, aiming to keep things as familiar as possible at first. Allow some time to grieve, heal and consider what you’d like to do next, maybe starting by working part-time. ● Formulate ideas and plans for a positive future, no matter how far ahead that may feel. Yes, money may be tight, children may require your full attention, but try to schedule in windows of time for yourself, even if it’s going for a walk, reading a book, phoning a friend for a chat, enrolling for an online course, or even dipping your toe in the water with a dating site. ● Be proactive. You may have lost your old circle of friends for a variety of reasons, so start to build a new group, more suited to your present set of circumstances. Other parents, neighbours, work colleagues, even online forums and social media may offer support, companionship and help in boosting your mood. Discovering that you’re not alone, that others have had similar feelings and experiences from which they’ve recovered can offer invaluable comfort and reassurance. As you move into this next stage of your life, agree to be gentle with yourself, but also be receptive to new ideas, to things you may have never considered before. Open up your mindset to the possibilities of your new life post-divorce. You’re not just moving forward; you’re starting anew!
Article By Susan Leigh Susan Leigh, counsellor, hypnotherapist, relationship counsellor, writer & media contributor, has published her third book, 101 Days of Inspiration #tipoftheday (ISBN 9781910275160) based on her social media series. A glossy, pocket-sized book, it's full of inspirational quotes & pictures, a treat to give or simply keep for yourself. For more information visit: www.lifestyletherapy.net PAGE
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HOW TO CREATE...
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Issue 94 2021
How To Create A Positive Environment Adaptation: the action or process of adapting or being adapted. This is a word that I believe strongly relates to our mental health, because the quality of our mental health is typically a result of our experiences… either positive or negative. Knowing that your mental health is a reflection of your life experiences, means two things... 1. You won’t always be in control. 2. You will sometimes be in control. I have mentioned the 1st factor because I want everybody to know that sometimes it is totally okay to not feel okay. If life gets overwhelming, or something in your life has really taken a toll on you, then you are allowed to feel sad, upset, anxious or angry… it is human nature and you should never feel guilty for feeling that way. In fact, sometimes the guilt or anxiety of
questioning “why do I feel like this?” can actually make the situation even worse, so allow yourself to take your emotions in. Now, I want to really focus on the 2nd factor… the controllables. Prevention is always better than cure, so how can we prevent negative thoughts and feelings in our day-to-day lives? By eliminating the negativity that is controllable. This brings me back to that word I started with. Adaptation is a real thing, that means who and what you surround yourself with will slowly change you, so here are some things which I believe we can all do to ensure our environments are empowering. Spend time people.
with
positive
Just like a polar bear has adapted to stay warm in the freezing cold, we
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HOW TO CREATE...
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Issue 94 2021
will adapt to talk in a way that allows us to ‘fit in’ to the common conversations we hear - make them healthy ones.
We live in a world that is obsessed with numbers…
Reframe your vocabulary. The words we use can have a profound effect on the way we feel, so here are some examples of how you can take a negative and turn it into a positive, just simply with your voice: I give up - I’ll try it a different way; this is a problem this is an opportunity; this is too difficult - I am going to have to work hard for this. Smile more. Smiling is the easiest way to improve your mood instantly, even if it is for no reason! Also, by being a smiley person, you will be helping others to evolve and will be playing your part in creating that positive social group mentioned in point 1.
Don’t worry too much about numbers. We live in a world that is obsessed with numbers… How many likes did my post get? How many steps have I done today? How much sleep did I get? The list goes on, and on, and on. Whilst it is good to have targets and set goals, we must remember that to achieve one thing we might have to sacrifice something else, so do not worry if everything isn’t exactly where you want it to be just yet. Do not let all these statistics control you: one bad night’s sleep doesn’t really do anything to your health; one lazy day doesn’t make you unhealthy; a post that doesn’t get a lot of likes is still a good post if you are proud of it. Do the things that make you happy, for yourself, because you deserve it. Follow accounts that make you happy. Social media is a massive part of our lives. Now more than ever, we are having to use it as a way to connect, so make sure your timeline is one that makes you smile, giggle or learn. Article By Nade Ward, Co-founder of Socker Share www.sockershare.co.uk
Above: Nade Wade
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STRESS BUSTERS
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Issue 94 2021
6 Stress Busters To Stop Feeling Anxious When the body thinks it is in immediate danger, anxiety sets in. It is the body’s attempt to warn and protect you of the risks your brain perceives around you. As everyone has a different tolerance level, anxiety for each individual can manifest in a variety of ways from panic attacks to an overwhelming sense of impending doom. It is similar to having a car alarm inside of us; some car alarms are triggered by only a slight gust of wind, and for others, it would take an earthquake. All symptoms are valid and deeply unpleasant. Statistics released in June reveal that in the UK, 19 million adults now report regular high levels of anxiety. With the appropriate tools and lifestyle changes, anxiety can be alleviated through regulating emotions. Indeed, it is possible to restore the mind to a state of calm and maintain such peace when confronting a stressful or challenging situation. LET GO PRACTICE Anxiety can arise unexpectedly, from an email that rubs the wrong way to dealing with family dynamics. Between work, socialising, family and self-care routines, it is human nature to lose focus and control of emotional energy as you transition and race between activities. Given
that, as you move from one task to another, close your eyes and repeat the words “let go” several times. This method releases any stress you are holding on to, enabling you to enter a new endeavour with a positive mindset. When taking on a large assignment, set an alarm every 50 minutes on your phone. According to research, 50 minutes is the length of time for which most people can direct their attention effectively. THE FIVE SENSE RULE When feeling panicked or worried, concentrate on your senses: sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch. This tactic is a scientifically proven way to prevent breaking into a sweat or having a panic attack. When the anxious feelings are bubbling away ask yourself: What can you see? What can you hear? What can you feel? and so forth. This distraction technique redirects your mind off your current emotions and resets your awareness to something else. When the attention has been shifted and the emotion dissipated, you are providing space and room to cope with the anxiety in a healthy, relaxing manner. INNER VOICE Anxiety is holding onto the uncertainty of the future and often originates from self-limiting
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STRESS BUSTERS
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beliefs; the inner voice inside that erodes your mind with self-doubt and as a result has an unhealthy hold on your actions. These self-limiting beliefs can range from worrying whether you can secure success to imposter syndrome. Over 90 per cent of our actions are guided by our subconscious, where the selflimiting beliefs reside. Therefore, you need to programme your mind to erase that inner critic and replace the negative thoughts with empowering affirmations. IMPLEMENT A RELAXATION SYSTEM Tackling your anxiety can be an opportunity of self-discovery. Relaxation practices include visualisation, progressive muscle relaxation and meditation. They can all recentre and help you find a way of calm. I refer to these activities as “stress defenders” because they are powerful ways to mitigate levels of tension and improve mood and sleep. From dance to stretching, or even yoga - choose an activity that most appeals to you and your lifestyle. Vedic meditations in particular challenge an individual’s nervous system. Life can get overwhelming sometimes, comparing our inner monologue to other people’s highlight reels, relaxation practices can prove to be effective ways to enjoy life more, express gratitude and achieve balance.
Issue 94 2021
symptoms of anxiety. Research shows that nutrients such as green tea, kava-kava, omega-3 fatty acids and dark chocolate can all reduce anxiety. If you are taking other medications make sure to discuss herbal remedies with your doctor first. GO INWARD Journaling can uncover triggers and help you notice any reoccurring themes. There is no right or wrong way to journal, it can be as simple as monitoring emotions or documenting life events. We have been conditioned to be hard on ourselves yet journaling provides the time to be gentle to your spirit. It allows you to create distance from your inner critic and is a form of meditation which challenges you to question what is really going on inside, allowing your emotional self to adjust. When taking into account the pressures of modern day living, work-related stress, personal relationships and painful memories, it comes as no surprise that 1 in 3 people experience anxiety. Anxiety is very similar to fear, it is fear cast to the future and the evolution of technology can further exacerbate the problem. Anxiety, however, isn’t a disease and can’t be cured, though it can be eased.
PROMOTE TRANQUILLITY Data has revealed that having an area in your home just for you can settle anxiety. Set up a candle and mood lighting, so you have somewhere to go when needed. Create a space that aligns with how you want to feel; your subconscious mind is scanning and processing your environment all the time so assure your immediate surroundings are clear from any clutter, and help you feel safe and supported.
Article By Scarlett V Clark, CEO and Founder of Smart Girl Tribe and author of The Smart Girls Handbook, published by Trigger 4 March 2021, £10.99
ADAPT YOUR REGIME The relationship between food and anxiety is undeniable and there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that nutritional psychiatry is beneficial for those suffering even light PAGE
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HAPPINESS HABITS
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Issue 94 2021
Happiness Habits For Success In Lockdown So why is building Happiness around when we focus on what is right rather than wrong. We look at how we can elevate habits important? It’s not just about being happy all the time; we want to be happy of course, but it’s about so much more. Especially at the moment. We can actually use Happiness to move us through lockdown or the variations we have experienced over the last year. We can use these habits to help us navigate the ever changing world. To do this, we tap into the science of Positive Psychology. With the traditional ways, we look at our lives with traditional psychology focuses on what is wrong with people (i.e our medical model), how do we fix them, what is wrong with situations. It is very much ingrained within our society. Positive psychology flips this all on its head and is based on the latest neuroscience and research
our levels of positive emotion and this releases amazing happy chemicals in our brain, fuelling our brain and giving it energy, reducing our fight/flight mechanism and enabling us to be creative, innovative and productive as a result. Tapping into this science we can begin to shift our lives, this happiness research is an essential for normal life and is absolutely crucial for these times. So what are the practical ways you can bring these happiness habits into your life? (These will really shift you if you dedicate time to them, I promise!) In my TEDx, I talk about these and they come from the research of Shawn Achor which I’ve completed my own research on and seen dramatic results (Thanks Shawn for permission for this and also to use in my TEDx!)
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So we are basically looking at ways to bring positive emotion into your life, tapping into joy, choosing joy every day. As we now know, this is not just a self-care or nice thing to do there is a responsibility to do this for our friends, family, clients and the collective conscious, research is now coming out to show we can impact on a global scale with this stuff! So the 5 activities I talk about - Being Thankful Gratitude, Random Acts of Kindness, Exercise, Expressing in Writing (journaling) and Staying Present (Mindfulness) With gratitude thinking, of 3 things you are grateful for every day has been shown to massively shift positive emotion and even be more powerful than antidepressants. This can be a big thing you are grateful for or a small thing such as a cup of tea! It doesn’t matter; it’s getting into this thinking that’s important, creating new brain pathways for happiness (a bit like the pathway through the woods I talk about in TEDx!)
Issue 94 2021
about positive emotion. I will sometimes journal just about anything that comes up and then combine with gratitude and journal a page all about what I am grateful for. Mindfulness - This is a really key one as this can help to build our awareness of both positive and negative emotions and think about what we need to process or heal with the negative emotions. The fact that Mindfulness is a big part of positive psychology also shows it’s not a ‘happy clappy’ thing but based on very real and researched emotion! I found in a recent Mindfulness programme it actually shifted the way people worked, improved their relationships and one client looking to lose weight actually cancelled her weight loss programme as Mindful eating had far more powerful results!
Acts of kindness again can be as simple as texting a friend or you could combine the two and share your gratitudes with people you are grateful for. One to watch out for here though is making sure your act of kindness comes from a place where your cup is really full… I see a lot of time with clients people not putting themselves first and ‘helping’ or being kind from a place where they are using it as a distraction and they are actually burning themselves out by helping. Remember the ripple effects you have when you focus on your self care. Make sure you are filling your own cup first with this one.
The minimum amount of time to benefit from Mindfulness is 6 minutes and Marines were shown to have dramatic impacts on their focus in the field after 12 minutes of Mindfulness.
Exercise - this goes without saying but this could even be a simple walk round the block; we are looking at getting those endorphins going and your heart rate elevated.
Article By Gemma Sandwell Bsc Hons, Dip PP, ICF ACC TEDx speaker, Mindfulness Teacher and Mindset Coach
Journaling - This is a great therapy tool, with positive journaling you want to be journaling
www.thehappinessbranch.com
Where do you have 6 minutes in your day? Where could you fit this in? What could you achieve with more brain fuel? If this resonates with you and you would like to incorporate happiness habits into your life and business and really start to make this shifts in your own life, please get in touch.
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MY THOUGHTS...
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Issue 94 2021
My Thoughts About Mental Health So, what is mental health? Well, the disorder, no matter their age, sex, income, dictionary definition is “a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being”.
and so on. Social and financial circumstances, lifestyle choices and life events can all shape a person’s mental health.
Or, put another way, mental health refers to cognitive, behavioural, and emotional wellbeing - it’s about how people think, feel, and behave.
As a mum of two small children, multiple business owner and open sufferer of manic depression, I have found that I have especially needed to be mindful of my ongoing wellness and mental wellbeing during the lockdown periods.
Sometimes, however, the term “mental health” is used to mean the absence of a mental disorder, and the term “negative mental health” refers to the presence of this kind of disorder. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.” All of that makes sense, but to summarise, mental health isn’t restricted to the absence of mental disorders or disabilities, it’s also about looking after your ongoing wellness and happiness - and that’s very important to remember, particularly during the current pandemic. It perhaps goes without saying that everyone has some risk of developing a mental health
So, what I do to maintain my state of well-being is... 1. Take care of my body. Taking care of your physical well-being can also help to maintain and improve your mental health. Make sure you eat nutritious meals and maintain a balanced diet, don’t smoke (or take drugs!), drink plenty of water, take regular exercise (to reduce depression and anxiety) and get enough sleep. I know this is sometimes easier said than done, but I've had to make this my focus (especially during lockdown 2021) in order to get through some tough times mentally. 2. Deal with stress. Stress is a part of our lives and some stress is good for you. Too little stress can lead to boredom and even depression; too much can
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cause anxiety and poor health. However, the right amount of stress tunes up the brain and improves performance and health - so it’s a balance. I help to manage my stress by going for a walk, playing with my kids, and writing my thoughts down in a journal. 3. Maintain a positive outlook. This can also be difficult, however I try and smile and see the humour in my life. Laughter can boost your immune system, ease pain, relax you and reduce stress, and talking to others about positive and fun things can automatically boost your mood. 4. Practise meditation and mindfulness. I use relaxation exercises to improve my state of mind and outlook on life. Meditation and mindful practices don't have to be “woo-woo”; they can just be about reflecting and thinking in a quiet and safe space, or even just letting your mind focus on how small activities make you feel throughout the day. 5. Changing my routine to shake things up. Especially during lockdowns (where routines can become boring due to being stuck at home) I like to do different things sometimes to keep life interesting. Whilst our routines enhance our feelings of security and safety, a small change can perk us up. It doesn’t have to be difficult - perhaps
change your jogging route, walk in a different park, you decide. 6. Above all... Whatever you choose to do to help improve your mental health be sure to set yourself realistic goals. It’s OK to aim high, but you should be realistic, otherwise you’ll likely be stressing yourself out unnecessarily. Also, always treat yourself with respect and avoid self-criticism, making time for you, your interests, or even to broaden your horizons. By valuing yourself and staying away from external negativity (people, alcohol, bad food, negative news, drugs, etc) this also helps promote a stronger sense of positivity in life. The biggest support to my mental health has always been maintaining a strong family and social network. By developing our support networks, especially continuing to find new activities where you can meet new people is so important - plus seeking support when you are struggling means that you are able to talk through your problems, gain feedback to find solutions, and instantly gives our mood a positive boost. To sum things up - “a problem shared is a problem halved” - and seeking help is never a sign of weakness, it shows true maturity and pure strength.
Article by Serena Fordham, Founder and MD of HER Business Revolution, Glow Virtual Assistants and Mums Empowerment Movement CIC. www.herbusinessrevolution.biz www.glowva.co.uk www.mumsempowermentmovement.co.uk
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WHY WALKING...
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Issue 94 2021
Why Walking Your Dog Can Beat The Winter Blues Cold, grey, wet weather, lockdown and endless depressing news about the pandemic are enough to get anyone down.
both your brain and your dog’s and improves your mental health when you need it most.
Here are 7 main benefits:
Benefit #2 Do you dislike winter weather? The best way to get rid of this feeling is to exercise with your dog. Who cares about grey days if your dog is so excited and happy to go out! Daily walking in every weather hardens your immune system, which is particularly useful in Covid-19 times!
Benefit #1 Lockdown and winter blues are detrimental to our mental health. Getting out of your home and doing something different on your daily walks bring new experiences, new sights and creates beautiful lasting memories. This stimulates
Benefit #3 Walking your dog soothes lockdown anxiety, depression, and stress. Seeing and being in nature with our dogs brings us emotional relief that helps us to cope much better with our daily lockdown life.
Walking your dog can be a great solution to help beat the winter blues, providing mental and physical health benefits for both you and your dog.
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WHY WALKING...
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Walking your dog can be a great solution to help beat the winter blues, providing mental and physical health benefits for both you and your dog. Pictured: Dr Margit Gabriele Muller
Benefit #4 Gyms are closed and we can’t meet our friends. The Covid-19 pandemic affects every part of our lives, including our physical health. Daily exercise lowers cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure and improves cardiovascular health. One of the best forms of exercise for the whole body is walking as our heart, lungs, muscles, joints and tendons are all strengthened. And what’s better than walking with your fourlegged companion? Benefit #5 During lockdown, our stress hormones increase. Going out for walks and playing with your dog is such an intense, ‘in the moment’ interaction that it increases happy and well-being hormones like dopamine and endorphins. This reduces pain and the stress hormone cortisol and therefore leads to better overall well-being.
Benefit #7 Walk time is one of the best times to bond more with your four-legged friend. Whilst walking your dog, you interact closely with him and he learns to react to you in a much better way. Through walks, you give your dog the support he needs, and he feels more secure which increases his affection and bond to you. Article by Dr Margit Gabriele Muller, leading vet and award winning author of Your Pet, Your Pill: 101 Inspirational Stories About How Pets Lead You to A Happy, Healthy and Successful Life, out now, available on Amazon.
Benefit #6 Feeling blue and drained? Finding it hard to enjoy anything? Everybody knows these feelings in these strange times. But going out with your dog, feeling a ray of sunshine on your face, enjoying the moment and the never-ending enthusiasm of your dog is the best way to get fun back into your life. PAGE
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MENTAL HEALTH
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Issue 94 2021
Mental Health If current global circumstances can offer a universal lesson, perhaps it is that most things are beyond our control. Even the seemingly routine aspects of life can suddenly change, and the things we have become reliant on for comfort or structure can evade us. As a former self-confessed control junkie, I think a significant part of learning to care for my mental health was the conscious endeavour to relinquish control, and embrace uncertainty rather than resist it. Management of my stress and anxiety levels is largely attributed to my acceptance that beyond
what I have immediate command of, anything goes. When you begin to look at everything objectively, it’s easy to identify the anxiety source of the multitudes. The cause varies, but stress mostly emerges when a person is willing a change or occurrence they are unable to implement. From relationships and health, to career and current affairs, we can only do so much and the rest is out of our hands. Aside from doing everything possible to contrive one’s desired outcomes, the most effective remedial actions are entirely personal. Typical advice for combating stress includes exercise, rest, connecting with people, or switching off from everything - all of which are
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not only contradictory, but potentially useless depending on the recipient. No one knows what we need or want better than ourselves. And like everything else, what we need or want is allowed to change; by minute, hour, day, week, month or year. We are so programmed to believe we should have a routine and a purpose, we forget that sometimes we need to be unbound. Our remedies and comforts shouldn’t always be calculated. Impromptu pleasures can be the most revitalising.
A child’s desires can change in a heartbeat, and much alike their constant physical growth and development, their strengths and interests also transform. Encouraging children to problem solve, improve, practice and acquire skills could never be detrimental, but if a child who applies considerable time and focus to academia is better suited to the arts or sports, the effort seems futile for all involved. Consideration of a child’s individuality is so important - not only for envisioning their future, but for nurturing their present wellbeing. Too often I’ve heard a child say they are “stupid” because they don’t excel at mathematics, or they are “rubbish” at sports. A child’s focus should be placed on their inclinations, intrigues, and simple enjoyment of childhood. Sometimes the best action is inaction. Problems can resolve themselves, and perfect outcomes can arise completely unaided. I would like to think my attitude towards parenting and home educating is possibly the most gentle approach for the sake of everyone’s mental wellbeing. I try to trust the process of watching my children independently grow and discover, offering stepping stones of assistance along the way.
With regards to parenting and home educating, I find it challenging to execute a schedule based on what I think my children should be doing, coupled with my constant desire to let them decide what they feel like doing.
Encouraging words and a sunny disposition can be all the input a child needs to propel themselves along, and demonstrating a lack of worry and angst is surely the best way to imprint a positive outlook in the minds of learning children.
Article By Missy Hitchcox Missy Hitchcox is a Norfolk mother of two. She has a background of English Literature and Creative Writing studies. Her professional career has centred on the Beauty industry, and she now home educates her children. PAGE
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GMOTFW
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Issue 94 2021
New Year, New Look & New Ventures For East Anglian Parent Mental Health Charity Parent-focused mental health charity Get Me Out The Four Walls (GMOTFW) are pleased to be seeing in 2021 with a renewed passion for helping parents along with a new look too. The East Anglia-based charity, which was founded in 2015 by a local mum to prevent social isolation and improve mental wellbeing for parents, has felt the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic along with the rest of the world. With all their volunteer-hosted peer support meets cancelled and with funding avenues limited, the charity had to find new innovative ways to engage parents and enable them to be supported online. Throughout the past 12 months, GMOTFW have continued offering regular peer support events online including weekly quizzes, scavenger hunts, Daily Check-ins and the popular Mental Health Monday Zoom sessions hosted by GMOTFW Ambassador Laura Thorpe. The charity fundraised, put together and delivered 30 Christmas Boxes to the Kingfisher MBU in December. Staff and patients were delighted to have received them. Staff working
at the MBU said, “Your kindness has brought a sparkle of joy and cheer to the mums not only on the ward, but also in the community this Christmas.” The charity has also sought to find new ways to engage parents in a post-Covid environment by securing funding through Clarion Futures, Norfolk County Council and The Norfolk Community Foundation to offer a new range of community-based Support & Play sessions held in Covid secure venues across the region. The sessions will be fortnightly, free to attend and will be starting at venues in Loddon, Thetford, Diss, Necton, Sprowston and Thorpe and with plans in place to roll this across the border into Suffolk towns including Brandon, Bury St Edmunds and Ipswich soon. The sessions will be based on a model already tried and tested by the charity which saw pop up support and play sessions in Norwich’s Castle Quarter Shopping Centre throughout 2019 and early 2020. The sessions will be for parents with young children to meet with other parents in a small, supportive, and inclusive groups, and offer them vital peer support during those
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GMOTFW
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Issue 94 2021
early years of parenthood. GMOTFW will also be welcoming other organisations and services relevant to early years and mental health to join some of these sessions to give advice and offer services to attending parents. Publicity & Recruitment Co-Ordinator, Carrie Dagraca, says, “It’s been a really difficult year in so many ways, but the hardest thing has been not seeing parents out of the house. With the increased number of parents indoors and cut off from their usual activities and services, we are so glad we have been able to be there to keep them connected and supported throughout the pandemic and this has helped us focus on which direction to move the charity in 2021. Our social meets will continue once government restrictions allow, offering that frontline service which we have been offering since 2015 in addition to the new support & play sessions. We are always looking for new volunteers to host social meets in their local area so ask that anyone interested contact carrie@getmeout.org.uk” The charity has also seen a rise in voluntary applications throughout 2020 from other parents to help organise online provisions, and to join the growing board of Trustees, keen to offer their experience. The charity have recently welcomed 6 new additions to their Trustee board including North Norfolk Councillor & Mother Lucy Shires - each one bringing different lines of expertise and a keen willingness to make a difference to the lives of parents in East Anglia. GMOTFW are currently looking for more Trustees, especially within the field of finance, so please contact info@getmeout.org.uk for more information. Acting Manager, Lucinda Terry, says, “The Coronavirus pandemic has meant that we have been unable to offer our face-to-face peer support for most of 2020. We would like to thank all our Volunteer Ambassadors who have helped us provide online events, for parents and carers, during this time. We are hoping that in the not-too-distant future we are
able to reinstate our social meets and launch our Support and Play sessions across Norfolk & Suffolk.” March will see the return of their annual fundraiser March Miles for Parents (previously March Miles for Mums) which will encourage the public to raise funds for GMOTFW by setting personal targets to complete daily physical challenges throughout the month of March. This could be anything from walking a daily mile around their local park, to buggy walks in their local area to space hopping around their garden - the choice is theirs! Participants will be asked to raise sponsorship for their efforts which will go toward helping parents within the community. If you would like to register for #MM4P, please send an email to info@getmeout.org.uk Along with new ventures and a new board, the charity have overhauled their brand and will launched their new look on Friday 15th January 2021. The fresh new logo and colour scheme is a visual representation of GMOTFW renewed passion for the parents they are helping and is only the first step of many to help improve the support and services that GMOTFW strives to offer. We would like to thank KirstyP Designs, for designing our new logo. For more information on GMOTFW www.getmeout.org.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/gmotfw Twitter: @gmotfw Instagram: @gmotfw PAGE
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ICENI ASKS
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Issue 94 2021
What does your self-care routine look like? “I start every day with a short burst of meditation. It helps me to focus my mind and plan the day ahead in the way I want to, rather than becoming preoccupied by what I used to see on social media. Facebook was often the first thing I saw on a morning after my alarm went off. It was an unhealthy habit and a challenging one to break.” Tara
“Self-care is really tricky at the moment, and I struggle to find any time without the kids shouting my name twenty times in quick succession before I respond. Having said that, once they are all tucked up in bed, I do try to relax by doing some breathing exercises. It used to be yoga, but there certainly aren’t enough hours in the day right now!” Teri
“My husband always tells me I need to consider myself more often than I do. I’ve recently started running and that has given me the time to think without emails pinging on my phone, occupying my mind.” James
“I used to almost punish myself for not doing certain things like exercising every day or sticking to clean eating. Now, I try to look after my body, but I realise my mind is just as important. So, I give myself a break; that’s self-care, too.” Jeanie
“It’s honestly non-existent right now. I wish it could be different, but I’m trying so hard to make ends meet that I’m working ridiculously long hours. Self-care will come sometime soon, though. Let’s hope anyway!” Richey
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JUST FOR FUN Issue 94 2021
Think you know the answer? Let us know via our Facebook page and we will reveal the answer at the end of the month. PAGE
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ICENI - HOROSCOPES
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Issue 94 2021
Horoscopes For February Aries 21 March - 20 April
Gemini 22 May - 21 June
Taurus 21 April - 21 May
Cancer 22 June - 23 July
Community spirit continues to be strong, with a delightful yet powerful setup that can motivate us to leave the past behind and head into a new and stimulating future. The week two New Moon could bring new relationships that support us in our goals. From mid-February and over the following weeks, there’s a major but positive shift, that might catapult you onto a new path. From the 18th, dreams could bring powerful and vivid guidance. Time to release emotional baggage too. With lovely Venus bringing added charm into the mix, you could make a big impression this month, and should use this time to further your goals. Yet what you want could undergo a radical change that sees you heading off in a new direction. There might be some friction between old and new, but out of this something completely fresh can emerge. Your social life picks up from February 18th Taurus, with plenty of opportunity for relaxing and romancing.
It’s time to go into explorer mode in a big way, as the emphasis is on mind-expanding experiences that could help you to move into a new league. Mercury remains in its retro phase until the 20th, so a change of heart can reshape your plans. Be patient with any delays though. From week three, it’s time to boldly showcase your talents, and the more imaginatively, the better. If an opportunity is highlighted, your charming personality might beat off the competition. The coming weeks and months can bring profound insights that might coincide with a major shift. Clearing away emotional baggage could positively affect your finances, business affairs and love life. Ready for a new phase? A key influence suggests a complete change, which may influence your social life too, Cancer. By February 18th, you’ll be ready for something fresh, as new experiences beckon. Going from the known into the unknown could be good for you.
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ICENI - HOROSCOPES
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Issue 94 2021
Leo 24 July - 23 August
Sagittarius 23 November - 21 December
Virgo 24 August - 23 September
Capricorn 22 December - 20 January
Libra 24 September - 23 October
Aquarius 21 January - 19 February
Scorpio 24 October - 22 November
Pisces 20 February - 20 March
Relationships continue to flourish, with the February 11th New Moon perfect for taking a bond to the next stage. You’ll benefit from getting involved with people from all walks of life, with offers and opportunities showing up as a result. What you see as your purpose could change dramatically, as you mingle with new people. A more intense focus from the 18th, can be a call to resolve any complex issues that are hanging over you. Let go, and you’ll feel so much better.
Using technology to stay on top of your tasks and routines could make such a difference. You may get more done, and have time for other activities too. It’s out with the old and in with the new, with the lunar phase on the 11th like a gear change that takes you to the next level. Your life might be busier as it becomes more interesting, so you’ll need to get your priorities in order. In addition, your people skills can be in demand from the 18th, when teamwork rules.
Showcase your brilliance Libra, while the creative focus continues. A potent lunar phase in Aquarius in week two, encourages you to take on new challenges and to use your ingenuity to make the most of them. This is an exciting month when a deadlock could be broken, and a new way found. It helps to reset your daily priorities as the Sun enters Pisces from the 18th. There may be so much going on that you’ll need more time for projects, learning and relationships.
So much that is rooted in you can spring to life, with February bringing major developments regarding your latent talents. Key energies encourage you to shake off outdated childhood beliefs that are preventing you from being who you really are. If you’re ready to invest in your home, the New Moon on the 11th is perfect for setting your intentions. From the 18th, indulge your interests, enjoy a little romance and let your inner entrepreneur out to play.
Venus enters your sector of communication which can help with vital discussions, of which there may be many. Signing an agreement? Stay alert, as Mercury continues its retro phase until the 20th. Plus, tensions could come to a head, and these might act as a catalyst that inspires a lifestyle change. By the time week three rolls around you’ll benefit from stepping away from too much busyness, and using your feelings as a guide to help you make progress with your plans.
You might be more talented than you give yourself credit for, and this month could prove this. Say yes to opportunities that stretch you, as you may have an aptitude for something that is enjoyable and lucrative. Looking to make a business out of a skill? If so, this month can be significant in this regard. Suffered delays? Communication improves from January 20th, and a specific issue might now become so much easier to manage, with the potential for a good outcome.
This dynamic and exciting month can ramp-up the pace of change, with you being very proactive in this regard. You could hit a few obstacles or even dead ends, but don’t let this phase you, just take it in your stride. You have far more going for you than against you, and progress could be good regardless. Initiate new plans around the New Moon in your sign on the 11th. From the 18th, it’s time to make the most of your resources, with the chance of positive gains showing.
Changing your beliefs can have a positive effect on your life, and with a focus on your spiritual and psychological zone, the coming weeks could encourage you down this route. Is it time to adopt a mindset that helps you accomplish your fondest dreams? If you need help, then a teacher or life coach might boost your results. As the Sun glides into your sign from the 18th, focus on your plans, and use this chance to bring some of your best and brightest dreams to life, Pisces.
Astrologer Patrick Arundell provides a unique take on Horoscopes and Astrology. Join him daily for your Daily Horoscope and his penetrating insight into this fascinating subject. Also FREE Horoscope Videos. PAGE
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