My Best Life - Issue 1

Now in Print Just ÂŁ2 plus postage - click here www.mybestlifemagazine.co.uk

WEAR PINK, RAISE MONEY AND HELP MAKE LIFE-CHANGING BREAST CANCER RESEARCH AND CARE HAPPEN. 23.10.20 WE’VE NEVER NEEDED YOUR SUPPORT MORE We really hope you’re able to join us, even if events have to look a ÜÐûûÜà ¿ÐÌÌÃóÃâû ¯ö Đà ¯ÜÜ ÌæÜÜæĐ ÍæďÃóâáÃâû ÍýпÃÜÐâÃö ¯ºæďà ¯ÜÜ ÃÜöÃȨ ɬ Register today to get your fundraising pack at wearitpink.org/freepack

Information accurate at time of print 14/08/20 /20 Breast Cancer Now is a company limited by da guarantee registered in England (9347608) and 58), charity registered in England and Wales (1160558), 0).

Scotland (SC045584) and the Isle of Man (1200).

WELCOME TO

ISSUE 1 Editors’ Note You might be wondering why we have decided to launch a new magazine... there’s a pandemic, we’ve been in lockdown... life has changed from the one we once knew... the world continues to spin as we all learn to embrace a new way of living and that’s why we wanted to create a lifestyle magazine to help make your very ‘Best Life’ for you!

Many of us have had the brakes put on our busy lives providing unexpected time at home where we have been able to take time for ourselves and families and revisit the simple pleasures of cooking, growing and creating which in turn has untold health benefits. We hope as you read our articles you become inspired to try some of them.

Continuing to embrace life’s simple joys and removing stress where possible is the aim of our magazine. We want to give tips, advice and positivity to help encourage a new you and hope that we are all as close as possible to living ‘My Best Life'

If you have ideas for articles in future editions, want to share your thoughts on our 1st issue or send any pictures of what you have been up to, please do so via mybestlife@todaymagazines.co.uk or simply send them to us on Facebook or Instagram @mybestlifemagazine

Kelly and Laura MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

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P6-7 SILVER CLAY SCHOOL WITH EMMA GORDON

P8 MAKE YOUR OWN BATH TEA BAGS

P14 FOOT STOOL WORKSHOP LAVENHAM UPHOLSTERY

P16-17 HOME MADE KATSU CURRY SAUCE

P20-21 WE SPEAK WITH FEN FARM DAIRY

P32-33 LOW-LIGHT-REQUIRING HOUSE PLANTS

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

Contents CRAFTS Silver Clay School How to make jewellery from silver clay Oat & Lavendar Bath Bags Create your own Sarah’s Fabrics Which cotton to sew with

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P36 AUTUMN LEAVES

10-11

Craft products Treat yourself

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Lavenham Upholstery Reupholster your own footstool

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FOOD Fresh Sauce Co. Katsu Curry Make your own

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Middle East Food Culture Amina Taki explains

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Fen Farm Dairy Cheese recommendations

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Chocolate Fondant - Delicious Recipe from Adam Gooderham Anyone for a Gin Convenience Cocktails Time tolife wetget your whistle Could any simpler

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GARDENING Bulbs and Daffodils What a year

28-29

Winter Wildlife Bring wildlife to you

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House plants Which one to choose

P38-40 BENEFITS OF YOGA

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Autumn Gardening Products These look handy

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Your Wild Garden Wildlife Trust advice

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Autumn Leaves Be a master composter

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Facebook /mybestlifemagazine Instagram @mybestlifemagazine

HEALTH Mind, Body and Soul Katie Rixon relaxes you

38-40

Couch to 5K Jimmy Last from POW Fitness

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www.mybestlifemagazine.co.uk

Autumn Syrups Keep it natural

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DESIGN BY: LB Design & Print www.laurenbrowndesigns.co.uk

Forest Bathing No armbands needed

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Instagram @lb_designandprint

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CRAFTS

SILVER CLAY I

am a Silver Clay tutor.

When I am asked what I do for a living, people just look at me confused and the next question I am normally get asked is ‘What is Silver Clay?’

Now I could go into a long and quite possibly boring explanation of what it is, but I won’t so don’t worry! The short explanation is that it’s this amazing material, that is genuine silver and comes in a clay form which is malleable.

You can stamp it, cut it, shape it and do anything that you would with clay and then when your piece is made, you fire it at a high temperature – using a kiln or a handheld butane torch and the piece changes form from clay to metal in a matter of minutes.

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It really is modern day alchemy. And what the maker is left with is a piece of silver that can be hallmarked and treated like any other silver object.

It’s amazing and it’s been my passion for the last 14 years of my life. So much so that I chucked in a well-paid job and devoted myself to building a business for myself.

That’s what I do – introduce MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

well-meaning and unsuspecting people to the world of silver clay! And I do warn you, it can be addictive!

Especially when you consider that you don’t need a lot of equipment to start making beautiful pieces of jewellery.

Unlike traditional silversmithing you don’t need to saw or solder or use a big heavy rolling mill to make your item...

It’s a real privilege. I also see time and time again that having an absorbing hobby can really help with mental health. Anything that occupies your mind, imagination and time can really benefit those who are struggling, especially in these uncertain times.

You need a work mat, a rolling pin of sorts, some playing cards (yes, really), a piece of textured wallpaper and some olive oil.

When it’s dry you’ll need some sandpaper and when it’s been smoothed and perfected you need a butane torch (a kitchen one that you use for crème brulee will do) and then you’ll have a piece of silver.

There are more steps than that, but you get the idea – simple and accessible; that’s why it has so many raving fans around the world! Of course,

as you progress through and learn more, you will want to add to your tools and equipment, but the entry level costs for silver clay can be very low.

The things you can make with silver clay are vast and varied.

You can make all sorts of jewellery including pendants, earrings, brooches and rings.

But you can also make more complex objects like beads, chains and boxes.

If you want a bit of colour with your silver, you can do that in lots of ways. Silver clay lends itself really well to enamelling.

You can add colour with resins, paints, coloured pencils and polymer clay. You can even add dichroic glass into your piece for some added sparkle.

If you are looking to learn about Silver Clay you could wing it – there are lots of YouTube videos and books on the subject. But if you feel you learn better with the attention of a tutor, there are lots around, including me and although I am based in Scotland, you can attend my classes online!

Feel free to get in touch for more info... emma@silverclayschool.co.uk www.silverclayschool.co.uk

I love taking new students through this process, introducing them to the wide possibilities of what’s possible with this fantastic medium without the need to kit out a jeweller’s workshop.

I never get tired of seeing my students progress through my School and complete their monthly modules and I get a real kick out of seeing their skills and confidence grow.

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CRAFTS

MAKE IT IN A MOMENT

…BATH TEA BAGS

OATS - moisturizing, soothing, and inflammation-relieving for itchy dry skin.

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s the last of this year’s lavender goes over, thoughts turn to what we can make with this heavily scented garden bounty. Bedside Lavender bags, moth repellent sachets and lavender shortbread will never go out of charm but this year I am adding one more to my to-do list, creamy lavender bath soak bags.

Super simple to make although they make lovely gifts, they are a welcome treat for a gentle evening after a hectic day. Here is how I made mine.

For each tea bag, you will need: • 2 tbsp sea salt • 2 tbsp epsom salt • 3 tbsp oat (whizzed or chopped up fine)

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• 3 tbsp lavender buds • loosely woven cotton cut up t-shirt jersey is perfect • strong string *If you don’t have any lavender growing at home, use 6 drops of essential oil of your choice to each teabag contents before sealing.

Once you have filled and sealed your bag, run yourself a hot bath and place the teabag in the water. Leave it for a few minutes to ‘steep’ before you swirl your way in for a homemade relaxing soak.

To get every last bit of goodness from your ‘brew’, smooth the bag over your skin. Once you have finished, the contents of the bag can be added to your compost pile and the bag itself can be laundered and reused for your next batch.

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

LAVENDER - aching muscles, relaxation, stress relief and can help reduce inflammation.

EPSOM SALTS - helps disperse essential oil in the bath reduce swelling and muscle tension SEA SALT - mineral-rich with a plethora of benefits

Beautiful colours from Nature

ZOOM ART Join the Hampshire Art studio online every Wednesday ÂŁ10 per session (or join Art Club)

www.hampshireart.studio Life drawing | Acrylics | Oil painting Drawing | Masterclasses | Wellness

CRAFTS

Sarah I am a self taught sewer and official fabric hoarder. I run a small, friendly online fabric business in Saxmundham, Suffolk, sharing my love of all things fabric related. You will find me on Facebook @sarah’s fabulous fabrics.

ALL ABOUT...

COTTON

W

hich cotton is the right cotton?

What is the best weight cotton for my project?

As a fabric retailer, these are questions I am asked all too often and when the choice is so abundant, it can be pretty daunting choosing the best fabric for the job.

Cottons are nice and easy to sew with and can range in weight from a cotton lawn to a heavy upholstery fabric.

Many different fabrics can be used for a project, so it’s important to know what you want from the finished item.

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Cotton lawn is a very lightweight fabric with a silky finish. It is woven from fine threads, and can be slightly see through, so you may want to use a lining. Light summery tops and blouses can be made with it, for a lovely soft, floaty feel.

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One of my most popular cottons is the poplin. There is a misconception that a cotton poplin is a polycotton, but ‘poplin’ actually refers to the weave of the 100% cotton fabric. It is woven from high thread count yarns and has a soft, smooth feel. At around

130gsm, it is heavier than the cotton lawn, but still light enough to be very versatile.

Childrens clothes are perfect made out of a poplin, as it is durable, soft and easy to move around in as well as crease resistant, which is always a bonus with the escapades of little ones.

Rompers, shorts, playsuits and so much more are perfect in poplin. It also lends itself well to shirts and blouses, and isn’t as translucent as lawn. Other cottons around the same weight or a little heavier can also be used similarly, but may crease more easily, and tend not to drape quite so beautifully. The heavier the fabric, the more structure the end garment will have.

The heavier cottons, such as drill and denim, at around 200gsm and up, are the perfect candidates for trousers, jackets, structured dresses, dungarees and

skirts. With a twill (diagonal) weave, they are very durable, which makes drill popular in the production of uniforms.

Another of the heavier cotton fabrics, also perfect for these items is corduroy.

Heavier shirts can also be made out of these. You may need to consider the needle size you are using for heavier fabrics, and upsize from the size you use for lighter weight cottons. Many brands offer a ‘jeans’ or ‘denim’ range of needles, but always check you have the right sized needle for the job.... it saves a whole lot of hassle later on!

Now, if you fancy having a go at covering an item of furniture or making a durable tote bag or cushions, then you will need to be looking for a heavier weight MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

fabric. Most fabrics suitable for this, will be advertised as ‘upholstery’ fabrics and will be above 200gsm. For durability, look for a high thread count. Whilst cotton is resistant to fading and can be hard wearing, you may need to consider treating the fabric against stains if it will be in regular use. Nobody wants to see their hard work ruined!

There are so many variations in the weight and weave of fabrics available. Whilst I have given suggestions of what can be made from each, this is only the tip of the iceberg. So many can be used for an abundance of projects, so don’t feel daunted by all of the choice out there, just give it a go.

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CRAFTS

TIME TO GET

CRAFTY STANDARD PEGLOOM 26CM Price: £16.00 Shop name: Dyeing Crafts

How to buy: www.dyeingcrafts.co.uk/product/peg-looms/

AUTUMN WREATH WORKSHOP IN A BOX

DORSET BUTTON JEWELLERY KIT CHERRY BLOSSOM BROOCH

(available week beginning 1st October 2020) Price: £59.99

£11, comes packed in a plastic free cloth project bag

www.thegardenflorist.co.uk

Buy online at www.beakerbutton.co.uk

THISTLE COTTON 150cm wide £8 per meter

WOODEN GUITAR BUTTONS W (PACK OF 5) Price £0.75 Buy online from www.becraftybuttons.com Email: info@becraftybuttons.com

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Sarah’s Fabulous Fabrics Find me on Facebook @sarahsfabulous fabrics

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

CRAFTS

FOOTSTOOL UPHOLSTERY WORKSHOPS

LEARNING IN LAVENHAM your sense of creation, as well as having a fun day and learning something different.

ave you ever thought about producing your own piece of functional furniture: maybe this is the time to put that thought into action?

Having upholstered many types of footstools early on in this profession, I decided to design a stool specifically for beginners to upholster from scratch. The suitably-sized softwood frame is supported by solid wood contemporary style legs, which can be varnished, waxed or painted after the upholstery process.

As a very enthusiastic tutor, I wanted to ensure this project could be completed within a one day workshop with tuition focused on the key basics of upholstery that are applicable to almost any furniture project, such as webbing, stapling correctly and tensioning fabric.

Combining traditional and modern methods, you can take home your fully upholstered stool, with a real sense of achievement and a pocket full of trade tips (you know, the ones you can't get on YouTube etc).

As a professional upholsterer and tutor for many years, I can honestly say that the bulk of my students viewed learning the basics of upholstery as a natural progression from sewing, making soft furnishings and similar crafts. If you are a creator, the satisfaction of producing a fully upholstered footstool will most definitely appeal to

Whether you live in or near Lavenham or are holidaying in this historic and very beautiful village, take the opportunity to upholster your very own piece of furniture. Apart from the workshops in Lavenham, you could opt for 1:1 private tuition via mobile footstool or own project upholstery workshops, especially if you prefer to stay at home!

Mary Gibson Professional Upholsterer & Tutor Lavenham Upholstery 46 High Street Lavenham Sudbury, Suffolk CO10 9PY Tel: 01787 240827 Mob: 07766 832472 Email: skills@lavenham upholstery.co.uk www.lavenham upholstery.co.uk

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MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

THE UPHOLSTERY SANDWICH! STEP 1: Bottom slice = webbing support to hold all fillings.

STEP 2: First lining = specific grade hessian for platform.

STEP 3: Filling = two types of foam.

STEP 4: Final lining = polyester wadding to smooth out the top.

STEP 5: Top slice = Fabric. The eye-catching finish!

STEP 6: Garnish = Pulled through covered buttons for a contemporary look.

Beaker Button Exclusive Dorset button kits, books and patterns.

Rings, hand dyed threads and tools Artisan wool shop with a beautiful range of fibre crafting materials and tools.

Shop online or at our studio. www.beakerbutton.co.uk info@beakerbutton.co.uk 01264 748070

Cute and colourful wooden buttons ² ideal for scrapbooking, card making and craft work

www.becraftybuttons.com

Sew Busy

YOUR LIFE IN A BOOK I will turn your precious memories into a beautiful hardback memento to share and enjoy with your family and friends.

Your book could cover family stories, tales from childhood, an interesting job or career, travels abroad...

Professional biographer Friendly, personal service Short and long book options

A PERFECT FAMILY GIFT

We stock a wide range of quilting cottons, jerseys, lawns, linens as well as haberdashery, ribbons, buttons and sewing themed kits & gifts.

“Wonderful to have a book about Mum that we can pass on to the grandchildren. The best gift ever!”

Check our latest opening times on Facebook or Google

Katarina Sherbourne 07982 465351 | katarina@katsherbourne.uk www.katsherbourne.uk

01252 444220 Shop online at www.sew-busy.co.uk

FOOD

HOME MADE KATSU CURRY SAUCE

Victoria I’m Victoria, co-founder of The Fresh Sauce Co. We are a super small Suffolk start up, making proper cooking sauces, fresh from scratch, which are delivered nationwide next day.

Having grown up cooking with my grandma, I have always been a big believer in proper home cooked food and proper fresh ingredients. This has been the secret to our sauces from day one.

SERVES 2, 45 MINS INGREDIENTS For the aubergine • 2 tbsp plain flour • 100g breadcrumbs • oil of choice for frying • 1 medium aubergine cut into 0.5cm slices (too thick and it won't cook through) • salt and pepper For the curry sauce - this will make extra but it freezes really well • 1 medium onion • 2 cloves of garlic

I wanted to share with you our katsu curry sauce. Here is my Crispy Aubergine Katsu Curry. This katsu curry is a crowd pleaser, perfect Friday night treat dinner.

Suitable for vegans but still packed with proper treat vibes. In need of a fakeaway feast? This one's for you!

• 2 carrots • 200ml vegetable stock • 1 teaspoon medium curry powder • 2 tbsp soy sauce You will need a smoothie blender or a hand held stick blender to finish the sauce.

For the salad • ½ cucumber • 1 red chilli • handful of fresh coriander • 6 radish • olive oil and a fresh lime to dress To serve • Fluffy white rice • Edamame beans

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MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, SEPTEMBER 2020

METHOD 1. CURRY SAUCE What makes this recipe great is that the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 3 days, or even frozen.

Then you can simply reheat it just before serving.

To make the sauce, firstly finely chop the onions and carrots, put into a nonstick pan with a little oil and fry on a low to medium heat until starting to soften and the onion is starting to go golden.

2. FOR THE AUBERGINES Slice the aubergine into 0.5 cm slices, season them with salt and pepper.

In one small bowl pour your breadcrumbs.

In a second small bowl mix the flour with water, adding a little at a time, until it becomes the thickness of egg whites. This is the “glue” we will use to hold the breadcrumbs to the aubergine, plus the “batter” gives an extra crunchy result.

Add in the garlic, finely chopped and the curry powder, and keep on the heat for another couple of minutes.

Line a baking tray with foil and place in a preheated oven (160*C).

This will be where you put the slices of aubergine in between batch cooking.

At this point add the liquids, the stock and the soy sauce. Simmer for a further 5 minutes so all the flavours can mix up together.

Have some kitchen paper ready your hands will get sticky - well at least mine did...

4. SIDES

Transfer the liquid from the pan to a smoothie maker, or into a deep jug and use a hand stick blender. Blend the sauce until smooth. I personally like a bit of texture still left in mine but this is completely up to you.

Put a non stick frying pan on the hob, add your oil and put on a medium heat. Working quite quickly, coat a slice of aubergine in the flour and water mix, then transfer it to the breadcrumbs, coat in the breadcrumbs patting them down.

Now it’s time to get your rice ready. I am one for cheating at this point, after all you’ve already done the hard work with the sauce and aubergine. I use a packet of coconut rice. Follow the instructions for the microwave and you are ready to go.

Carefully put the aubergine into the hot oil. Repeat this with 3 slides of aubergine, once golden on one side, flip them, then when golden put on the tray in the oven. This time resting in the oven allows any excess oil to drain off, keeping them hot and crisp.

Serve with a side of edamame beans and chopsticks for a true wagamama style vegan feast.

At this point taste the sauce, add some salt and pepper if you fancy. If the sauce is too runny, put back in the pan and bring to a simmer and let it thicken up a little. Equally if it’s too thick for your taste add a splash of water.

Set the sauce to one side - it’s time for the aubergine.

I find it easier to cook 4 slices at a time, transferring them into the oven as I go. Any more than that it seems to be far too crowded in the pan, and it is much easier to keep control of the hot oil and frying when it's a smaller number of slices!

3. SALAD Once all your aubergine is crispy and safely in the oven, make up your salad. Using a vegetable peeler ribbon your courgette, then slice the radish thinly. Add slices of red chilli and roughly chopped coriander.

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

Dress with a drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lime.

I love creating proper treat recipes for Friday night dinners in any household where there are dietary requirements, being able to cook our favourite restaurant dinners at home is always a must.

Proper fresh home cooking is something that I have always believed in, and how I approach every recipe on my blog www.thefreshsauce.co/recipes.

There is always a way to have a meat free Monday and sneak in some extra vegetables for those fussy eaters.

I hope you love cooking my favourite vegan “fakeaway” dish as much as we enjoyed it for dinner!

Facebook & Instagram THEFRESHSAUCECO

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FOOD

Amina Taki

FOODS LOCAL TO CULTURE T

he food culture of the Middle East features a variety of different ingredients, flavours and spices, including garlic, za'atar, aubergines and chickpeas.

Za’atar is mainly a herb mixture composed of thyme and oregano. Its use dates back to Ancient Egypt and is consumed in a variety of ways. Chickpeas are a legume that is used regularly in a variety of dishes local to the Middle East. Its remains have been found in Mesopotamia from more than 7,500 years ago. Today, India and Australia are the main producers of chickpeas, worldwide.

Za’atar is a popular spice and herb in the Middle East. It is used to marinate chicken, added to salads or, it is dried with sesame seeds and mixed with other herbs and olive oil and formed into a dip. It is also usually

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consumed at breakfast with cream cheese, spread on flat bread or formed into a tea.

Za’atar is aromatic, flavoursome and high in antioxidants. Its nutritional benefits are debated and not scientifically proven but traditionally, it has been believed to boost cognition.

Chickpeas is translated into Hummus in Arabic, which is where the name of the dip originated from. It is one of the most common ways to consume chickpeas. They are usually cooked and made into a paste and mixed with tahini (sesame seed paste) to make a dip called: hummus bi-tahina. This is usually decorated with olive oil, spices and cooked chickpeas.

Another common way of consuming chickpeas in the Middle East, is by making a snack called leblebi. The chickpeas are boiled, roasted, spiced and mixed with lemon juice, usually, served MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

Hi, I am Amina Taki and I am a Registered Associate Nutritionist and a health and wellbeing advisor.

I love empowering people with all the skills and knowledge they need to feel better in themselves and lead a better life.

INSTA: @aminanutr www.nutritionmade simple.co.uk

in winter as a warm snack.

Chickpeas are also commonly ground into flour and deep fried to make falafel which are then made into wraps.

Chickpeas are high in protein, fibre and are nutrient-dense. They contain minerals such as iron and zinc and folate. They are a cheap and useful plantbased protein source, especially when cooked.

Three cooked tablespoons of chickpeas is considered one portion of protein.

Next time, how about you try some Za’atar in your cooking or make a chickpeas dish inspired by the Middle East?

Norfolk Garden Rooms at The Kings Arms Fleggburgh

• Superior rooms • Award winning restaurant • Minutes away from Norfolk Broads & Beaches • Hot tub • Stunning countryside walks

01493 368333 • thekingsarms leggburgh@hotmail.co.uk

www.thenorfolkgardenrooms.co.uk

20% off your first order Fresh sauces, made in small batches, from our kitchen in Suffolk.

Free shipping on orders over £15 use code: mybestlife

We are Mark & Victoria, its just the 2 of us making sauces fresh every week in our kitchen in Suffolk.

We use only the best ingredients to create maximum flavour.

Delivering a super tasty & quick dinner from the comfort of your kitchen!

Have a great dinner,

www.thefreshsauce.co

FOOD SUMMERFIELD ALPINE BY BOTTON DAIRY: Characteristics: Hard cows milk cheese. Unpasteurised.

Cheesemaker: The residents of Botton Village in the North York Moors, who operate the Botton Creamery.

FRIENDS.FENFARMDAIRY.CO.UK

Pair with: Something fruity. A good quality Calvados or a farmhouse cider.

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @FENFARMDAIRY

What makes it special: Summerfield Alpine is a treat that is hard to come by. Gold winner at the World Cheese Awards, it is made only from the summer milk of Botton Creamery’s herd of free range Shorthorn cows. The cheese is skilfully handmade by the residents of Botton village, the first Camphill community. This amazing enterprise provides a home, work and community life for adults with additional needs.

Tasting notes: This cheese is bursting with deep nutty flavours, layered with notes of woody thyme, hazelnuts and sharp apples. As a backdrop to all of this, you will find a beautiful sweetness, imparted by the summer grass.

Dulcie Crickmore We spoke to Dulcie Crickmore of Fen Farm & Friends, a British farmhouse cheese subscription.

ST JAMES: Characteristics: Soft, washed rind, ewes milk, unpasteurised.

St James Cheese

F

armhouse cheesemaking is one of the most elemental of processes. More of an interaction between milk and cheesemaker than the following of a set recipe.

Milk, by its very nature, is designed to change its composition in response to many stimuli. The changing of the weather, the nutritional content of the grasses and herbs in the ley, the lactation stage of the cow and the needs of the calf, all play a role in the composition of milk. It is a balance that changes constantly and is never the same twice.

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For this reason, it takes a person of infinite curiosity and patience to master the art of working with milk to make the very best cheese. I truly believe that the farmhouse cheesemakers of the British Isles have become world leaders in this art. The UK is blooming with outstanding artisan cheeses to be tasted but here are just 5 of our many favourites:

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Cheesemaker: Martin Gott of Holker Farm, Cumbria.

Pair it with: Cider in the spring, IPA in summer, or a damson gin in the autumn.

What makes it special: St. James is a rare gem. This beautiful cheese is produced on a small scale and only seasonally, between the months of February to October. It is made using only the fresh warm unpasteurised milk from Holker Farm’s own herd of Lacaune ewes and is one of only a small handful of cheeses produced in the UK using a home-made starter culture, indigenous to Martin’s own farm. This rare use of a home made starter results

in an extraordinary array of flavours and aromas in the cheese. A unique microbial “fingerprint” if you like, which gives a true taste of place.

Tasting Notes: St James has a yoghurty, almost citrus flavour to the curd but more characteristic bacon, cured meat (maybe even mutton) flavours on the brown to orange rind. If you’re lucky, you might get a hint of fresh hazelnuts as well.

Botton Creamery

BARON BIGOD: Characteristics: Soft, bloomy rind, unpasteurised cows milk.

Cheesemaker: Our fabulous team here at Fen Farm Dairy, Bungay, Suffolk.

Pair it with: A crisp perry or cider. This cheese goes perfectly with fruity flavours.

What makes it special: Handmade here on our farm at Bungay, from the warm milk of our happy Montbeliarde cows.

We make our cheese very early in the morning, so we can use the fresh warm milk straight from the cow, at the perfect temperature for cheesemaking.

The milk is gently gravity fed into small vats, just a few metres from the milking parlour, where rennet is added. The curds are carefully hand ladled into large moulds, using traditional pellea-brie ladles and the young cheeses are hand-salted and then aged for up to 8 weeks in a cave-like environment.

Tasting Notes: A light, nutty rind over a pungent and silky golden curd, with long-lasting notes of warm earth, farmyard and mushrooms. Eat the whole thing, rind and all!

LINCOLNSHIRE POACHER: Characteristics: Hard cows milk cheese. Unpasteurised.

Cheesemaker: Simon and Tim Jones and their head cheesemaker, Richard Tagg.

Pair with: A sweet white wine.

Meursault is sublime with this cheese.

What makes it special: Lincolnshire Poacher is the beautiful love-child of a West Country Cheddar and an Alpine hard cheese, combining the very best elements of both. It was Developed by 4th generation farming brothers Simon and Tim Jones, and is now made by their head cheesemaker Richard, on their idyllic dairy farm on the edge of the Lincolnshire Wolds. Think of an undulating patchwork landscape, hilltop castles and eerie North Sea mists that come rolling in and envelop the land in a fine spray. The family’s much-loved herd of FriesianHolstein cows (and one Normandy cow) enjoy the cooling mist and the lush grass that is nourished by it and stays green even when the rest of the Eastern counties are in drought.

Pair with: A robust fruity Chenin Blanc or a good quality, smooth Sake.

What makes it special: St. Jude is a unique cheese made right here on our own Suffolk dairy farm, by two-time winner of the James Aldridge Memorial Award for the Best British Raw Milk Cheese, Julie Cheyney. Julie’s mantra is that “good cheese is made slowly and gently”. For this reason, she oversees the entire cheesemaking process herself, using only the fresh morning milk of the first cows to enter the milking parlour. This is a beautifully creamy and soft button cheese, with a wrinkled rind.

Tasting Notes: Eat both rind and paste together for the fullest

Tasting Notes: Savory meets sweet with meaty, brothy, umami notes up front giving way to a fruity sweetness on the finish.

experience. St. Jude’s flavours

ST JUDE:

grazing outside the vegetal

Characteristics: Soft, bloomy rind, unpasteurised cows milk.

notes come through, with a

Cheesemaker: Julie Cheyney of White Wood Dairy, Suffolk.

pastures that the cows are

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

change with the seasons. When the cows are indoors on winter rations it has a more buttery flavour and when they are

savoury twist on the marshland enjoying.

21

FOOD

Adam Gooderham I’m Adam, founder of A.M.G. Bespoke Catering. We are a unique catering business start-up providing fresh, healthy convenient prep meals bespoke to you using the best local ingredients we can get our hands on.

What’s unique about A.M.G. Bespoke is that we not only cater for health and fitness but, we also provide private dining experiences within your home, bringing along with us everything minus the kitchen oven and sink.

You and your friends can enjoy a 5-course fine dining experience at your very own dinner table or, a two-course lunch situated in your garden, whatever it maybe we can cater to your taste. I’d like to share with you a recipe that never fails to please, a gooey chocolate fondant which can often be found on our menus.

A.M.G. BESPOKE CATERING Tel: 07951 877016 a.m.g.catering @hotmail.com

22

CHOCOLATE FONDANT, CARAMEL SAUCE WITH PISTACHIO CRUMB MAKES 10 FONDANTS PREP & COOKING TIME 1 HOUR INGREDIENTS For the Chocolate Fondant • 250g chocolate • 250g butter • 5 eggs • 5 egg yolks • 250g sugar • 125g plain flour • Cocoa powder for dusting ramekins • Butter for greasing For the salted butter caramel sauce • 100g caster sugar • 50g double cream • 50g water • 25g butter • 5g course sea salt Pistachio crumb • 75g pistachio’s Equipment • Pastry brush • Dariole moulds

METHOD 1. CHOCOLATE FONDANT Preheat your oven to 200c or gas mark 6.

To prepare the dariole moulds, melt a small amount of butter.

Use a pastry brush to line the butter around the dariole mould doing upward strokes from the base to the tip of the mould, I personally feel as though this

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

assists in the rise. Next, add a tablespoon worth of cocoa powder to each mould. Hold the mould and turn 360°C around ensuring the cocoa powder covers the entire inside of the mould. This will help the fondant not stick when turning out.

To make the fondants, first start off by dicing the butter into rough small cubes as this will help the butter melt down with the chocolate. Add both the diced butter and chocolate to a heat proof bowl and set over a pan of simmering water, gently stir until both have melted into a thick sauce.

In a stand mixer or a separate bowl if hand whisking, whisk together the eggs, yolk and sugar until they become pale and fluffy then, stir in the melted chocolate mixture ensuring you are adding gradually and folding at all times.

Add flour into the mixture gently folding the mix until all is incorporated.

Place in a oven at 200c for 10-12 minutes.

2. SALTED CARAMEL SAUCE To make the caramel sauce, add the sugar and water to a sauce pan and boil until you reach a golden-brown colour. Whisk in the cream followed by the butter and salt and serve drizzled over your warm fondant.

3. PISTACHIO CRUMB Place pistachios into a processor and pulse until you reach a crumb texture. Serve scattered over the fondant.

FOOD

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Set against a backdrop of the magnificent Malvern Hills, our spring festival is packed with flowers, food, crafts and family fun CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 18 - 22 MAY 2021 The world's greatest flower show reveals cutting-edge garden design, fabulous floral displays and simply the best shopping THE HAMPTON COURT PALACE GARDEN SHOW 6 - 11 JULY 2021 A celebration of late summer that’s packed with gardening inspiration, stunning floral displays and workshops in a majestic setting THE FLOWER SHOW AT TATTON PARK 21 - 25 JULY 2021 A fabulous day out bursting with colourful gardening inspiration, fun family activities, have-a-go workshops and boutique shopping

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What if you could read tree rings in the same way as a needle reads a vinyl record?

Set in Northumbria and Amanda’s native Durham ‘The True’ tells the story of Sam, whose guilt-ridden search for his mother who disappears in 1725 - brings him to the year 2000, where he meets an isolated hill-farmer, Published by Antler House Press, ‘The True’ is available to order from Amazon or most good bookshops. ISBN 1916142206, price £9.99 paperback and £3.99 in Kindle format. It is also available on Kindle Unlimited.

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MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

LOOKING TO JAZZ UP YOUR BARE WALLS?

Custom designs available

www.prettyneatprints.co.uk prettyneatprints MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

25

COMPETITION

NATIONAL COMPETITION OPENS TO FIND UK’S BEST BEACH HUT FOR LIFE... beach hut owners’ stories – from restoration projects and storm damage come-backs through to bringing family together, creating a sanctuary for recovering from illness or escaping life's daily stresses, and even raising money for charity or realising a life-long dream.

Entry is free, quick and simple, with owners of beach huts from anywhere in the UK encouraged to complete Beach hut insurance experts, Ryan’s, together with Millie’s Beach Huts, is offering £600 in prizes and the prestigious status of becoming the first ever ‘Ryan's Beach Hut of the year 2020’ award winner.

• Inaugural competition celebrating UK’s muchloved Beach Huts • Huts will be judged on use rather than just aesthetics • Entry is free and extended to all Beach Hut owners (20,000+), with £600 of

prizes up for grabs

a 200-word summary

• Winners and runners-up will receive personalised plaque to proudly showcase on their beloved coastline retreat

explaining why their beach

• Whether a sand-filled storage unit or a plush coastal retreat – everyone stands a chance of winning

on October 19, with a first

The new Ryan’s competition, which is open now and runs until September 30, will celebrate best beach hut uses, however small or grand they might be, exploring

plaque. Runners up will also

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

hut is best, as well as up to four supporting pictures.

Winners will be announced prize of £300 plus one year’s free insurance and a luxury hamper, as well as a winner’s be celebrated, with second prize of £200 plus plaque and a third prize of £100 plus plaque.

27

GARDENING

Sallyanne Foreman Taylors Bulbs are a fourth generation family business, growing and supplying flower bulbs and associated products since 1919.

TAHITI

Daffodils are grown on our farm, where we also design and pack a large range of products, predominantly for the UK and Irish markets. www.taylorsbulbs.com

2020!? Nobody could have predicted the events that were to unfold when we started planting our awardwinning daffodils this January in preparation for The RHS Chelsea Flower Show which usually takes place in May. Bulbs.co.uk is the mail order subsidiary of Taylors Bulbs, the UK’s leading supplier of bulbs to garden centres.

Based in Lincolnshire with an impressive 400+ varieties of daffodils in our collection, we are a little fanatical about these beautiful spring flowers.

We had our sights set on a

28

LIGHTBULB

MOMENT 26th consecutive gold medal for our stunning daffodil display and as the planning for this event takes twelve months, we were busy working away oblivious to what was to come. Twelve months may seem like a long time to plan, however, we start by selecting 100 varieties in August, we keep them warm and dry ready for planting 150 bulbs of each in January. Once planted we keep them cosy enough to start rooting and then place them in a cold, dark environment to allow them a winter rest while we are all enjoying the start of spring.

While they were sleeping peacefully, the dreaded news came that all flower shows were cancelled for 2020. We felt totally bereft to be MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

informed we would not be able to take our flowers to meet their public this year.

Usually we would bring them out of their slumber in May and allow them to flower in our greenhouse before picking the most beautiful of the bunch, carefully packing them up and transporting them to the showbench for their big debut!

This amazing show, although stressful, is a massive and exciting part of our year, meeting customers old and new as well anyone who wishes to gaze upon the multitude of colours, shapes and sizes available in the daffodil world! Amazingly not all daffodils are yellow and there are in excess of 25,000 different varieties overall.

AVALANCHE

FEBRUARY GOLD

So, we were left pondering what would come of our sleeping beauties, but we knew we had to do something to get their shining faces out to the public. Not being techy minded it really has been a learning curve, but we decided to take to social media. Instagram, Facebook and Twitter accounts were activated, and we flooded them with pictures and information about our daffodils, and many other ranges of bulbs that we have to offer, in the hope that we could keep our fans happy with something to feed their flower fix. We went through the motions of awakening the bulbs in the glasshouse and allowing them to flower, as we usually would ahead of picking them to showcase.

Here was the beginning of our little virtual show. We featured varieties that are good old favourites alongside some new ones too. We’ve provided plenty of offers and ran competitions alongside them to keep the public involved, to keep the flame burning and we hope it has all paid off. Hopefully, we will be back on the stand at Chelsea and other shows next year, letting the gorgeous flowers soak up all the glory they deserve.

Our Spring Flowering bulbs are on sale now for delivery from September onwards so

ICE FOLLIES

CAMELOT

please give us a visit at www.bulbs.co.uk to check out all we have to offer and find some inspiration for your gardens. No matter the size, shape or theme of your space, there is something for you to help welcome the most special time in spring when they will start bursting through and lifting your soul!

We have ranges of crocus, hyacinth, snowdrops, tulips, alliums and many more to explore.

Here are our top picks of must have daffodils for your garden: AVALANCHE - This multiheaded Tazetta variety is all about the blooms and fragrance. Strong stems hold beautiful bouquets of up to 16 white and yellow flowers. Plant in pots and place near doorways for early Spring scent.

FEBRUARY GOLD Gorgeous little Cyclamineus flowers of all gold. Early flowering, ideal for pots and naturalises well.

ICE FOLLIES - Prolific grower, these tall flowers are ideal for borders and planting in swathes.

CAMELOT - This all yellow w variety is large and robust..

Ideal for windy areas.

TAHITI - Rich gold and orange flowers with strong g stems. Excellent long lasting ing cut flower.

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

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29

GARDENING

PREPARING YOUR GARDEN READY FOR WINTER WILDLIFE Nectar which is essential for both bees and butterflies will be much less available as it gets colder, so it’s important to ensure a good supply.

Plants to consider include Asters which are a real hit with the butterflies, as well as Common Ivy, Sedums, hardy Geraniums such as “Rozanne”, Verbena bonariensis, and Rudbeckia to name just a few.

Miranda Bell Miranda Bell is a keen gardener & designer living in rural Herefordshire.

She ran her own gardening and design business in Brittany for 12 years before returning to the UK just over 4 years ago. She is now a coDirector of Weekend365 who designed the Sowing Vegetables Mug on page 34. www.instagram.com /weekend.365

edges! By leaving seed heads

O

30

standing, these will act as a

ne of the most valuable lessons I’ve learnt over the years is that the more you provide for wildlife, the more it helps you and your garden.

Having had extra time in the garden this year during lockdown, I’ve been even more aware of the vital role that wildlife plays.

wonderful over-wintering spot

As Autumn arrives, do consider how tidy to leave the garden before the worst of the winter weather approaches – most wildlife prefers planting areas left a bit rough at the

back all the dead stems –

for insects which in turn will provide a vital food source for garden birds during the colder months. Keeping some of your leaves piled up or creating a compost heap will offer a perfect hibernating place for Hedgehogs and Slow Worms. Try to resist cutting leaving these till the spring will not only provide the ideal winter habitat for insects but will help protect the soil from harsh weather.

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

If you’ve enjoyed growing some vegetables this year, try leaving a few Leeks to flower – these last for ages and the insects love them. Chives are another long floweringfavourite – the blooms are always smothered with bees and butterflies.

One job not to overlook in the autumn is trimming the hedges – they provide essential shelter to wildlife over the winter. Keeping them trimmed, encourages them to thicken up making them even more effective. If you’re starting from scratch, try growing a mixed native hedge, using bare-root plants available at this time of year, with a mix of Holly, Hazel, Hawthorn, Dog Rose, Spindle, Guelder Rose, and Dogwood.

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Our hanging baskets come straight to you, ready planted with our top quality, UK-grown plants go with no work required!

They will cascade over the sides of hanging baskets and planters, providing a splash of subtle colour in the dull days of winter.

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GARDENING

A BREATH OF FRESH AIR

I

n 1989 NASA did a study on using plants as a means of reducing indoor air pollutants and improving indoor air quality. The three organic air pollutants they tested them for were common indoor pollutants found in modern energy-efficient buildings Trichloroethylene, Benzene, and Formaldehyde.

The result of the study detailed the amazing potential of some of our most common ‘Low-light-requiring houseplants’. Here we look through some of our favourites!

1. PEACE LILY (SPATHIPHYLLUM) Keep the soil damp but not wet. Repot each spring and divide if need be. Likes light BUT not direct sunlight.

2. ENGLISH IVY (HEDERA HELIX) Easy-to-grow trailing nature which can hang down, trail over furniture or be trained up sticks. It is fairly thirsty and prefers the cool. It comes in an

32

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

all green or variegated colouring. They dislike direct sunlight and can happily live in darker areas of your home or office.

3. MOTHER-IN-LAW'S TONGUE (SANSEVIERIA TRIFASCIATA) A succulent that comes in a few colour variations. Loves bright light with some shade but can grow well in low light conditions too.

Succulents hold water in their leaves.

Water when the soil is dry, which can be as little as once a month in the winter. Be really careful not to over water.

4. CHRYSANTHEMUM (CHRYSANTHEMUM MORIFOLIUM) Loves bright light, and will need watering twice a week as it is very thirsty. Usually kept in doors for its flowering period only. Comes in a wide range of flower colours and shapes.

bathrooms as they love humidity and it's easier to keep them watered. Comes in many colours and sizes, the flowers last a good month or so and after deadheading more will come too. Produces new flowers quite profusely.

6. DRAGON TREE (DRACAENA MARGINATA) A very popular plant in the 1960s. It has a few colour variations. It is happy sitting in a sweet spot between light and shade. Over watering is a big no no for this one and its leaves will go brown on the tips as a sign it has had too much water. It loves a leaf misting at times when humidity is low.

7. POTHOS (SCINDAPSUS AUREUS) Another robust houseplant that has a lovely trailing habit.

It can come in a few colour variations. They can live anywhere from indirect sunlight areas of your home as well as areas that are poorly lit. Lucky for most of us, forgetting to water the plant suits the pothos well. It likes to have its root dry out before rewatering - in fact it droops to remind us when it has been dry long enough!

8. SPIDER PLANT (CHLOROPHYTUM ELATUM) Often hung because of its trailing nature, a super hardy plant that will grow in most light conditions from bright light to semi shade. There are variegated and non variegated colourings available. They love an occasional misting and once the top soil is dry, it is time to water, keeping the roots moist at all times.

5. GERBERA DAISY (GERBERA JAMESONII) A window sill loving plant that likes to be kept moist at all times as it wilts easily (be careful of high temperatures).

Perfect for kitchens and

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

33

GARDENING

AUTUMN

GARDENING BLACKWALL 330 LITRE BLACK K COMPOST CONVERTER Price as pictured £21.50 (buy one get one half price offer available) Delivery £5.99 per order.

Telephone Order-line 0844 571 4444 www.getcomposting.com

TH CHESTER THE & COOKE TOOL RACK

SEEDBALL TIN BIRD MIX Price: £6 | Kemps General Store Shop online at www.kempsgeneralstore.co.uk

Price £45 Different sizes available Shop online at www.chesterand cooke.co.uk

MUG - SOWING G VEGETABLES BY WEEKEND365 IGLOO HEDGEHOG HOUSE Price: £26.95 | Vine House Farm Telephone – 01775 630208 Shop online at www.vinehousefarm.co.uk

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Price: £9.50 Kemps General Store Shop online at www.weekend 365.com

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

GARDENING

Kirsty Paterson For more than a century we have been saving wildlife and wild places, increasing people’s understanding of the natural world. 46 Wildlife Trusts look after more than 2,300 nature reserves, with visitor and education centres across the UK. Join your local Wildlife Trust today and help to create a wilder future! Use the postcode finder www.wildlifetrusts.org

I

t won’t be long before chillier nights draw in and the garden’s vibrant summer glory starts to fade to more mellow tones, but don’t be tempted to turn your garden into a tidy-up project this autumn – keep it wild.

Gardens of all sizes can enjoy a tree or small shrub that supports more wildlife. Why not consider the rowan?

Masses of berries attract all kinds of bird life and it’s a favourite with thrushes, including waxwings and redwings. A slender tree, it bursts with creamy-white, spring flowers and clusters of bright red, autumn berries.

Autumn is the best time to plant most trees.

Every garden can include a sparkling water feature of some kind and it’s one of the best ways to attract a wide

MAKE YOUR GARDEN WILDER THIS AUTUMN! range of animals to your garden, including birds, insects, amphibians and hedgehogs. It is now thought that some amphibians, such as frogs, are more common in garden ponds than in the countryside. Check out The Wildlife Trusts’ free guide - How to build a pond for wildlife.

Leave the lawnmower and other garden tools alone. Kick back and enjoy some more free time. In order to make more space for nature, it’s vital we learn not to overmanicure, preen and tidy up too much. Leave a pile of leaves for over-wintering butterflies, including the beautiful yellow brimstone.

Don’t burn your large cuttings in a bonfire, create a log and leaf pile for amphibians instead. Keep a strip of unmown grass as a wildlife corridor and don’t fix that hole in the kickboard of your fence, it could allow MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

hedgehogs to make their way around the neighbourhood.

With natural nesting sites in decline, you can make a real difference by putting up bird boxes now. This gives birds ample time to check the potential homes out over the winter. If you don’t want to buy one, you can make your own using this FREE GUIDE from The Wildlife Trusts.

Stock up on seeds and suet for winter. Garden bird populations often depend on your generosity to see them through the year and never more so than in winter. You can support your local Wildlife Trust too, by buying your bird food from specialist grower Vine House Farm.

Check out their advice on bird feeders and the types of food you can supply for different species of bird and enjoy birdwatching from home this autumn!

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GARDENING

AUTUMN LEAVES WRITTEN BY SUFFOLK MASTER COMPOSTERS

Suffolk Master Composters Volunteers who spend time promoting home composting in their local community to promote more environmentallyfriendly waste management practices.

To ask us a composting question, please email at mastercomposters @suffolk.gov.uk

L

eaves look so pretty when they first start to fall, but it is only so long until they become a nuisance or a slippery danger. Left on the ground they eventually break up and go back to the soil with the help of earthworms, but it is not always convenient to wait for nature to take its course.

Once you have raked up your leaves, small amounts can contribute to your compost

36

bin but what can you do with the rest?

The answer is to make a batch of lovely Leaf Mould! It won’t happen overnight but its very easy to do!

To make your own leaf mould, pile damp leaves into something that stops them from blowing away (but has air holes) and leave it for two years. The only burden is to make sure the pile doesn't dry out in the summer months; the slow working fungus needs moisture to carry on breaking down the leaves.

This small amount of work is a tiny price to pay for oodles of lovely dark crumbly gardener's gold that is both enormously water-retentive yet free-draining and low enough in nutrients to be a gentle growing medium for the most delicate of seedlings.

Whilst all of this is very exciting, it is easy to get carried away and forget about the wildlife that benefits from these fallen leaves. A pile of windblown leaves in autumn will be a hive of insect activity MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

and a common site for birds to forage. It is common for piles to be used as shelter (or hibernation) for hedgehogs, frogs, newts, pollinators including bumblebees and many other animals and insects too.

A carefully planned cage fitted with a couple of wildlife gaps at the bottom can both tame your pile and offer a safe but luxurious shelter or hibernation site for wildlife, which will be a joy to watch as the winter months progress.

By the end of your first season, you will begin to wonder how you lived without one until now!

USES: • Winter or summer mulch • Soil conditioner to vastly improve its water retention ability, but also change the soil structure to benefit plant roots and soil life.

• Homemade seed compost • Homemade ‘potting on’ mix when mixed in equal amounts with compost and sharp sand.

HEALTH

WHY YOGA IS GOOD FOR

A

ccording to the late world-renowned

yoga Guru B.K.S. Iyengar

Mind, Body & Soul

“Words cannot convey the value of yoga – it has to be experienced”. That said, words can at least give some examples of its benefits to offer food for thought.

Yoga is good for you! This is not a revelation. You can do it with little or no equipment, and these days it is just as easy to practice from the comfort of your own home as it is in your local studio.

Yoga also really is for everyone and can positively impact you both physically and mentally. But what is it exactly that makes yoga so good for us?

First, it is important to understand what yoga actually is. Don’t see yoga as a ‘thing’- see it as an idea.

Yoga is the union of body and mind, connected by the breath. Yoga encourages you to move with intention. To be kind, compassionate and connected, to both yourself and others. To garner a deeper appreciation for the simpler things in life and to build more awareness in the actions of your day to day life.

Simply put, “if you change the way you look at things,

How this ancient practice can lead to a clearer mind, stronger body and better relationship with modern life and the pursuit of happiness.

the things you look at change”. Life these days is already hard and fast enough so the encouragement to take some time out for yourself; to slow down, to breathe, and if you want to, to move, is more appealing to most than ever before.

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MIND How often have you taken the time to focus on your breathing? The lungs are the biggest organ in the body and often taken for granted.

Slowing down your breath with “pranayama” or “breathework” can be instantly calming and grounding, while other guided breathing techniques can help to stimulate and energise the body. It is amazing the physical changes that you can make simply using these incredible tools.

Scientifically speaking, yoga can help activate your parasympathetic nervous system, moving the body out of a stress-state and the typical hormone imbalancing “fight or flight” mode, into a more calming “rest and digest” setting. The benefits of which can help with a range of things including calming an overactive mind and helping to alleviate sleeping problems. It will not be surprising to hear that the two are often linked.

It can also help to boost some of the so-called “happiness chemicals” which our bodies naturally produce. These include mood-boosting serotonin plus pain-killing and natural-high endorphins and dopamine.

The benefits of Meditation and Mindfulness have been written about a lot in recent years, because they are an excellent antidote to the fast pace of modern life. They include better focus for work, decreased anxiety and stress, and done correctly, it can also

be incredibly revilatising. It’s a great way to stay grounded and be more “present”. Plus living in the moment undoubtedly helps you to feel more appreciation for the simple things in life.

Using your mind to bring a deeper connection and awareness to yourself, you can build an appreciation for the things that you can do, rather than focussing on the things that you can’t. In the modern world with so much comparison culture thanks to the omnipresence of social media and advertising, it is important to take time to feel grateful for our bodies. Kurt Vonnegut’s words may not be new but they resonate just as strongly today. “Enjoy your body, use it every way you can.

Don’t be afraid of it, or what other people think of it. It’s the greatest instrument you’ll ever own”.

feels good. A lot of people initially come to yoga for a “fix”, usually a physical one, be it back pain, headaches or general “stiffness”. Of course it can help with these things if done correctly and regularly, however, there are so many

BODY While it is by no means the entirety of what yoga is, and actually only makes up a small part of the whole practice, most people will already be familiar on some level of the more physical side of yoga.

The “asanas” or “poses” as they are better-known, were traditionally created to prepare the body for meditation and have now become a lot more of what yoga has been packaged up as for the western world. This does not mean that they should be overlooked at all and it would be remiss of me not to mention some of the amazing benefits.

We all know that stretching

more physical benefits to the poses.

These include: - Building muscle and strengthening the body - Creating a better posture - Encouraging circulation - Restoring energy and rejuvenating - Increasing mobility and flexibility - Boosting your circulation and digestion, while encouraging your internal organs to elimate waste.

Basically, detoxing.

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HEALTH

This is coupled with an increased awareness of your own body beyond the aesthetics of what it looks like. Unlike most exercises it focuses on the joints as well as the muscles; the tendons and ligaments which connect them, and the fascia that surround them. A truly full-body experience.

SOUL There is a reason you come out of class feeling more grounded with a clearer mind. Guided by a series of ancient principles, or modern-day “rules for life” you will be encouraged to leave your ego at the door and to bring connection and awareness to your body and your actions.

What is unique about yoga is the encouragement to ‘take your practice off the mat’ and into your day-to-day. In the most basic of forms, this can mean using simple guides such as “non-

harming” and “truthfulness”, and in a world of constant marketing and pressure to achieve, the “nonattachment” of our own happiness to a possession or outcome can help make a huge shift in mindset.

Understanding, quite simply, to take the rough with the smooth and to strive for contentment rather than looking for happiness in something or someone else.

Think of yoga as a guidebook

The path to happiness is a long one with many obstacles along the way. If we can understand the difference between contentment and happiness, knowing that one can lead to the other but to strive for a more balanced, contentedness or evenmindedness, it can help to manage the highs and lows of modern life.

harder question is to ask

This is something that takes work and doesn’t all happen overnight after one class, but the principles and philosophical aspects encourage you to make more considered choices and have an awareness of your actions. It is important to be aware that it is a long-term practice; a lifestyle, holistic and everevolving. It needs commitment and consistency.

MIND, BODY & SOUL The reason it is so good for mind, body and soul is its ability to connect all three.

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for everyday life, which you can delve into as deep as you like, knowing that the more you put in, the more you get out.

Slowing down, breathing, taking time for yourself in a world that moves so fast can only be a good thing. When the evidence stacks up like this, perhaps rather than asking “why yoga”, the “why not?”. To finish as I started, with the words of B.K.S. Iyengar “Yoga is a light which once lit, will never dim.

The greater your practice, the brighter the flame”.

Katie Rixon Katie’s yoga journey has taken her all around the world.

She is now living on the Suffolk Coast where she grew up, teaching yoga and helping run the family holiday business.

Contact for teaching schedule, private lessons, online and in-person via instagram: @katie_rixon or email katierixon@gmail.com

Hello, I’m Karl Smith…

I deal with the person sat in front of me, with a unique method of Rapid Hypnosis and content free sessions.

There is no digging up your past to shape your future.

You don’t even have to tell me what it is...

All these sessions can be conducted in person in the Office or at your location, or via Skype.

Please contact Karl if you have an issue that you would like to discuss, that’s not listed.

ONLINE • Post Trauma Removal Session APPOINTMENTS • Anxiety Removal Session NOW • Stress Management AVAILABLE • Anger Management and Coaching • Weight Loss – Hypnosis Gastric Band • Stop Smoking with Hypnosis • Fears and Phobias Removal • Corporate Events or Seminars

Karl Smith Hypnotherapy & Performance Coach Unit B20, Business Base Park, Rendlesham, Woodbridge Suffolk IP12 2TZ 0800 233 5589 | www.karlsmithhypnotherapy.com

Virtual Wellness Week 31st August - 4th September

In response to the coronavirus pandemic and the current mass gathering restric ons, Southampton Hospitals Charity is launching its virtual Wellness Week to provide ac vi es and help people cope be er in these extraordinary mes.

As isola on and anxiety levels have risen and impacted our emo onal and mental wellbeing it is now more important than ever to seek help and support when you need it. The Wellness Week brings together a variety of speakers from psychologists, play therapists and award winning chefs to bug experts and slime champions to provide some fun, inspiring and helpful ideas to be healthier and happier.

Join us from 31 August to 4 September to be inspired, entertained and feel more supported.

• • • • • • •

Masterchef winner Shelina cooks Deadly and Wild with the Bugman Workout with Karen Davis Fitness Become a slime Guru with the play specialists and Lola Children’s and adults mindfulness Up close and personal with Urban Wings and his birds of prey Employment law with Irwin Mitchell

• Help your child overcome anxiety • Employment support with Irwin Mitchell • Yoga Sessions • Meet Peppa and George at Paultons Park • Beauty with Orchids Retreat

For more informa on and to register for free access to the sessions please visit: www.southamptonhospitalscharity.org/virtual-events

HEALTH

TOP TIPS TO GET YOU UP AND

RUNNING O

ver the last few months of lockdown running has seen a surge in popularity as an accessible form of exercise for all. Everyone who runs will definitely have their own personal reasons for doing so.

WRITTEN BY JIM LAST

I recently asked members of the POWfitness running crew why they run and the responses included - it's time in my day just for me, it keeps me fit and strong, I feel a huge difference to my life both physically and mentally and so I can eat cake and drink beer!

Jim Last POWFITNESS Framlingham, Suffolk Tel: 07905 713969 powfitness@yahoo.com Facebook: POWfitness Instagram: POWfitness1 Established since early 2017. I am a qualified Coach in Running Fitness & Personal Trainer.

So this shows that each individual gets something very different from their running and that it really is suitable for all.

We offer circuit training, boot camps, running sessions, personal training & one to one specialist running coaching.

I'm sure there will be lots of you out there who would like to start running for reasons just like the above but perhaps you don’t know how to start.

We work with complete beginners right through to more experienced athletes.

Here are my top tips to get you up and running.

Personally I've represented my county, completed 16 marathons and my personal best time 2 hrs 37 mins.

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1. PACE YOURSELF The very first step you take is the hardest. This is the one that involves the most courage. Once you've taken

MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

5. JOIN A RUNNING GROUP There really is nothing to be scared about when it comes to joining a group.

The benefits are huge as you will be running with like minded people whilst receiving advice and having fun. Our running groups include a real variety of runners from complete beginners to the more experienced. The sessions are designed so no one is left behind and everyone is part of the crew. the first step out of the door you've become a runner and your running journey has begun. Start at a pace that feels slower than you think you should go! Don't be afraid to include regular scheduled walking breaks before you get too out if breath.

Remember it's better to start a run easy and finish strong rather than too fast and finish on your knees.

2. INVEST IN FOOTWEAR Running is very simple kit wise.

Basically shorts, t-shirt and trainers and off you go. However, it's definitely worth investing in proper running trainers that fit well and are comfortable. This will help prevent any injuries further down the road.

how often you can realistically run around family and work commitments. Don't put pressure on yourself by setting a plan that you will never be able to stick with.

Also spread your runs out over the week to allow for rest and recovery inbetween.

So what are you waiting for? Lace up your trainers this month and go for it!

Happy running!

4. SET A TARGET For almost all of us it is far easier to stick to a new regime if we have a target to work towards. This can be anything from running twice a week to completing a 5k non stop within ten weeks (more on how to do this next month).

3. HAVE A PLAN Before you start , consider

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FOOD

INGREDIENTS • 1 cup of Blackberries • 1 cup of water to cover • Approx 200g Sugar • 1 Lemon (peel and juice) Plus any of the following you fancy!

• 3” cinnamon stick (½ - 1 tsp ground Cinnamon) • 1 tbsp grated Ginger

AUTUMN SYRUPS AND HOT TODDIES…

• 6 Cloves

F

1. Rinse the blackberries well and remove any green or under-ripe berries.

or years people have soothed winter ailments with hot toddies, autumn syrups and hot water with honey and lemon. They may not be what the modern doctors prescribe but they are very nurturing to make and taste delicious!

After a failed batch of jam had me leafing through my old recipe books, I advanced my single repertoire of ‘Thyme and Honey sore throat syrup’ to a row of syrup cocktails in every shade of purple sat ready and waiting to help me through the colder months when I am feeling the chill or under the weather.

Most of the syrups I found contained blackberries or elderberries. These two super berries are proof alone that Mother Nature has impeccable timing. Their dark purple colouring comes from the high levels of anthocyanins which create

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the strongly pigmented juices. These juices are wonderful for homemade dyes and paint, but also for their antioxidant, antimicrobial and antiinflammatory effects of the human body. They pack a punch in the nutrients department too.

Once you have made your syrup you can take 1 tablespoon of syrup daily as a winter tonic or dilute 1-2 tablespoons with hot water and a squeeze of lemon before bedtime. You can also enjoy it drizzled onto porridge, over ice cream, on pancakes, mixed into yoghurt, and as a drink mixer!

• 1 Star Anise • 1 tbsp Thyme Leaves

METHOD

2. Put the berries, ginger, spices, lemon rind and juice into a pan and cover them with water.

3. Bring to the boil and let simmer for 20 minutes.

4. Remove from the heat and crush the berries before straining the mixture through a cloth. Allow to drip for a few hours (overnight if you can).

5. Measure the liquid and measure out 1lb sugar for every 1-pint liquid.

6. Gently bring back to a simmer, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.

7. Bring to a rolling boil for 5-10 minutes until it becomes syrupy, pour into sterilised bottles.

TIP: To make the perfect hot toddy put 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp whiskey and 1 tbsp honey in a mug with 1/4 cup of hot water.

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MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

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GARDENING

FOREST BATHING

“Studies have shown positive results up to seven days after a forest bathing trip.”

WRITTEN BY THERESA GREEN

P

ut down your bathing suit and re-fold your towel!

‘Forest Bathing’ is a misleading term that often gets thought of as quite literally taking a bath in the woods. I will explain more, just so you too don't get caught with your costume on!

Shinrin Yoku (‘forest bath’ as it translates to) is more accurately described as ‘bathing in the forest atmosphere.’ The woodland-based nature therapy became part of Japan's National public health programme in 1982.

GPs started to prescribe stressed Japanese workers Shinrin Yoku as a preventive health care measure instead of just medication. The health service saw prolonged stress cause serious health issues both mentally and physically and that medication alone only dealt with the effects, not the cause.

The research done on forest bathing gives several factors that contribute to its success.

From the broader influence of disconnecting from technology, reconnecting to nature and slowing down, to the more

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scientific aspect of higher levels of oxygen under the forest canopy and the forests natural aromatherapy.

The research on this natural aromatherapy in our woodlands often focuses on phytoncides (Phy-Ton-Cides); anti-microbial chemicals that some plants create that help protects themselves from harmful insects and germs. These phytoncides have been proven to boost our immune system for up to 30 days after a forest bathing session.

Just two hours a month ‘forest bathing’ can: · Lower concentrations of cortisol (Stress Hormones) · Lower pulse rate · Boost your mood · Increase your energy · Improve your sleep · Boosts your immune system (NK Cells) · Lower blood pressure · Improve concentration and memory.

Many of us naturally forest bathe without even knowing we are doing it. Strolling or sitting under the canopy of trees is a very natural thing to MY BEST LIFE MAGAZINE, ISSUE 1

do, but there are ways to supercharge your Shinrin Yoku experience. Firstly, silence your technology and then find a quiet spot where you won't be interrupted.

Choose a relaxing activity, one that moves you from a stressed or excited state to a calm and relaxed state, this can be anything that reconnects your mind with your body without the distraction of your thoughts. So, read a book, meditate, stroll mindfully, draw, or just sit quietly watching the woodlands’ residents carry on around you.

It only needs to be once a week, studies have shown positive results up to seven days after a forest bathing trip.

Giving a health benefit to woodlands gives us the extra motivation we need to spend more time in them, to appreciate them and be more alert to their decline. And in these times, there is no better time to try the therapy for yourself, just leave the costume at home...

WIN! ANY ONLINE COURSE

OF YOUR CHOICE WITH

COMPETITION QUESTION: HOW MANY PAGES IN ISSUE 1 OF MY BEST LIFE? TO ENTER, CLICK HERE AND ENTER YOUR ANSWER AND DETAILS ON OUR WEBSITE WWW.MYBESTLIFEMAGAZINE.CO.UK Entries close 31st October 2020

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Find out how to make my take on the perfect buttercream and then follow my easy steps to making a variety of floral masterpieces. Choose the tutorials that suits your skill level. Once you purchase a video it is yours to view as many times as you need.

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