Balance December 2018

L I V E

W E L L

DECEMBER 2018 ISSUE 31 BALANCE.MEDIA

QUI Z: WAS YOU R 201 8 IN BA LANC E? GUT-FRIEND LY COC KTAI L R ECI PE S HOW TO AVOID CHRIST MAS CONFLIC T

Lily LIVING COLOUR

IN A MONOCHROME WORLD

CONTENTS

Welcome

RE G U LA R S

Sometimes, you have to lose your balance before you can find it. How boring would life be if everything (including you) was in perfect equilibrium the whole time?

The hero’s journey is never complete without obstacles, and the greatest battle - far harder than slaying dragons - is with one’s own demons, something Lily Allen knows all too well.

In this month’s Imbalance issue, we salute the people, places and things that make life a bit more interesting. And, with the festive season upon us, it’s important to remind ourselves of the health benefits of play. From reducing cortisol (the stress hormone), to increasing serotonin and improving mood and decision-making, releasing your inner child goes a long way to creating a rounded life. Think of it as healing hedonism, and remember that when eating your umpteenth mince pie or tackling the mother of all hangovers.

Christmas is also a time to remember to ‘not to judge a book by its cover’ (something else Ms Allen taught me). That smiley friend who’s always happy may have family on another continent and is spending the festivities without them, so see it as a chance to reach out and restore their balance.

Sophie Scott Editor editor@balance.media

balance.media

@balanceLDN

@balanceldn

COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: BELLA HOWARD. EDITOR’S PHOTOGRAPHY: IAKOVOS KALAITZAKIS

WO RK/LIFE 19 BOX CLEVER: GREAT MAIL ORDER GIFTS 20 LILY ALLEN IS ADDING COLOUR TO A MONOCHROME WORLD

PSYC HOLOGY 24 PEACE PROCESS: RESOLVING CONFLICT

BO DY/SOU L 26 EXERCISE CAUTION: HOW TO KEEP YOUR HORMONES IN CHECK

FO OD 30 GET SUITABLY PICKLED THIS YULETIDE

TRAV EL

36 YOUR ULTIMATE ANTI- CHRISTMAS

A RTS/ C U LTU RE 39 CARLA GUGINO’S HAUNTING CAREER

THE BALANCE EQUATION

BE PRESENT

5 GOOD NEWS 9 SIX STEPS TO POSITIVE IMBALANCE 11 HOW DID YOU FARE IN 2018?

BEAU TY / G ROOM IN G GAIN INSIGHT

LAUGH

FEAR

LIVE WELL

EDITORIAL

TRADING

Head of Finance Kate Lyon

Editor Sophie Scott

Commercial Director Minal Bhima

Licensing Jonathan Marks

Deputy Editor James Gill

Advertising Paul Brett, Nick Canane, Stefanie Daniels, Lindi De Souza, Jeremy Saunders

PA to Publisher/Managing Director Filippa Woolf

Production Editor Jonathan Sever Creative Director Kate Monument Art Director Victoria Ireland

Creative Partnerships Rashad Braimah

Deputy Art Editor Jade Cooper-Collins

Publisher/Managing Director Daniel Cuby

CIRCULATION AND DISTRIBUTION Magazine Heroes circulation@balance.media

Balance Publishing Ltd, Laser House, 132-140 Goswell Road, Clerkenwell, London EC1V 7DY

Website & Social Media Manager Georgia Shepheard

BALANCE PUBLISHING LTD

Tel 020 8444 3401

Digital Creative Producer Henry Mame

Editorial Director Rashmi Madan

Production Director Dahlia Cuby Editorial Assistant Libby Williams Thanks to Josh Barnett, John Naughton

Executive Editor Morgan Rees www.balance.media

December 2018 BA LA N CE

43 ARE YOU USING TOO MUCH PRODUCT? 45 GET YOUR JINGLE BELLS ON IN A JIFFY

BA LAN C E Balance Copyright of editorial contents are held by Balance Publishing Ltd. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Reproduction in whole or part is forbidden except with the express permission of the publisher. It is not the intention to print any matter that discriminates on the grounds of race, sex,sexuality or disability. All details, and prices, are correct at the time of going to press. The Balance equation is a device and not mathematically correct.

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December

GOOD NEWS

INSTAGRAM “One of my favourite free magazines in London which I am going to miss when I leave the city” @justmike1

INSTAGRAM “I love Balance mag - so many great ideas and features!” @thelittlespender

At this time of goodwill to all men, feast on our selection box of feel-good stories

Education

Food

SCOTLAND THE BRAVE

BURGER OFF In a bid to tackle childhood obesity, Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has announced a ban on ads for foods high in salt, sugar and fat across the Transport for London (TFL) network. Starting in February, Khan says: “Londoners have shown overwhelming support for a ban on adverts for junk food and drink.” He’s making a super-sized effort to improve our health.

WORDS: JAMES GILL IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

Sex TIME APART Sleeping apart could be key to a better love life, by increasing your chance of rekindled romance. Matthew Walker, founder of the Center for Human Sleep at the University of California, says, “Better and longer quality sleep raises testosterone levels, vital for men and women’s sex drives.” So, less snoring, no duvet hogging and more sex? God bless us, every one!

Technology ROYAL DISAPPROVAL Even if you’re not a staunch royalist, you have to concede the Windsors have considerable clout.

When they talk, the world listens. So, kudos to Prince William for calling out tech firms’ reactions to cyberbullying. With social media, message boards and even online gaming rife with trolls, it’s a global problem and the future monarch believes more can be done to combat it.

“Technology companies have a great deal to learn about the responsibility that comes with significant power. Surely together, you can harness innovation to allow us to fight back against the intolerance and cruelty that has been brought to the surface by your platforms?” A modern crusade fit for a king.

Scotland has long been a country of forward thinkers, so it’s no surprise our friends north of the border will become the first in the world to make LGBTI (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex) part of the school curriculum. Scottish Deputy First Minister John Swinney stated, “It is vital the curriculum is as diverse as the young people who learn in our schools.” Great Scots indeed.

Environment WINDFALL TAX Planet-conscious American outdoor clothing company Patagonia, having saved $10m in corporate tax cuts, have announced the entire sum is being donated to groups who are “committed to protecting air, land and water, and finding solutions to the climate crisis.” It’s a gift Mother Nature would find hard to trump.

December 2018 BA LA N CE

Nature GREEN IS GOOD Yet to put up your Christmas tree? For the love of goodness, crack on. A University of Pennsylvania study suggests greenery is a force for good in more profound ways than previously thought possible. In Philadelphia, 541 empty plots of land were randomly chosen for one of three makeovers: cleared out and given greenery in the form of grass and trees; cleared, but with no greenery; and finally, left untouched.

Crime was then monitored across the three types of plots via police reports and the results were pleasing. At the green plots, crime plummeted by 13 per cent, with gun crime down by 30 per cent. Perhaps that news will inspire you to unpack those baubles right away.

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YO U R E S S E N T I A L H A N D B O O K

The user guide

rebalance SIX STEPS TO HAPPY IMBALANCE

A gin and tonic made with 25ml of 37.5 per cent ABV gin contains 97 calories – approximately the same as a buttered crumpet*

Be Kind

GOOD GOD! DIVINE PROPORTIONS

COMPILED BY: JAMES GILL. ILLUSTRATION: ALICE BOWSHER. *SOURCE: DRINKAWARE.CO.UK

A SWELL IDEA WHITE WATER RAFTING

Feast like a deity at this immersive, five-course dining experience, based on the story of Dionysus – God of pleasure and mischief. A truly adult experience.

Until 12 January, thevaults.london/ divine-proportions, £55

For some, an adrenalinefuelled night in north London means clubbing in Camden. But there’s a healthier way to get the heart racing while taking on lots of h20: white water rafting at Lee Valley. gowhitewater.co.uk, £38

by BERNADETTE RUSSELL ROOM AT THE GIN SALCOMBE GIN START POINT If you’re going to enjoy a festive tipple, you may as well make it one of the finest gins around. Start Point is handcrafted in Devon and distilled in a 450-litre copper pot using 13 botanicals, so it fits the bill perfectly. salcombegin.com, £40

(KICK) BOXING DAY FLYKICK

MOURNING AFTER THE NIGHT BEFORE BESPOKE ME PERSONALISED NUTRITION For many of us, Christmas is about eating and drinking to excess. With Gabriela Peacock’s bespoke nutrition, stuff your face, then give yourself the vital nutrients you’ll need the next day. gpnutrition.com, from £31

TO YOUR NEIGHBOURS

WHEN YOU TWIG...

BANYA NO1 PARANIE

This intense 50-minute class combines “mind, body and kick-boxing” to initially shock the system but, over time, will prove thoroughly rebalancing. What’s more, it’s an incredibly fun way to release tension, improve balance and strengthen the core. flykick.co.uk, from £12

Steaming in a Russian sauna, you’re beaten by a bundle of birch, oak or eucalyptus twigs to stimulate circulation, ease stress and muscle tension and even stave off premature ageing, before jumping in an ice bath. Not for the faint-hearted. gobanya.co.uk, from £30

December 2018 BA LA N CE

D

espite endless shopping lists, frazzled tempers and even more crowded than usual tubes, there is still so much to love about December.

My neighbour’s mum, Lynn, told me about big parties that used to happen, with everyone coming to their doorsteps to wish each other Merry Christmas. Things have changed, but one way to revive the community spirit of Christmas in London is to do it yourself.

Inspired by my friend Portia’s raucous annual Yuletide karaoke, which took place in her tiny flat rammed with her neighbours, I began a tradition of inviting mine round to watch It’s a Wonderful Life, offering them mulled wine or hot chocolate. You don’t have to celebrate Christmas in the traditional sense – my street has people of various faiths, beliefs and traditions – but making connections with your community can have a hugely positive effect on your wellbeing and help you see it most definitely is a wonderful life!

The Little Book of Wonder

by Bernadette Russell (£7.99, Orion Spring) is out now

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A N N U A L C H E C K- U P

the mmanua an ua l

QUIZ

ta

The

ke t h e

tes t

words LIBBY WILLIAM S & CAROLE ANN RICE

How balanced was your Have you mastered the art of harmonious living this year? You’re about to find out…

Step 1 On a scale of 1 (totally disagree) to 5 (totally agree), how do you rate the following statements?

PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES

Step 2 Combine your score from each answer to calculate your total Step 3 Turn the page to find out how balanced your 2018 has been, which areas you’re #winning in, and how you can improve in 2019

1. Finances I’ve stayed on top of my money, have a reliable income with steady outgoings, and managed to stash away a little “rainy day” fund Score 2. Fitness I enjoy staying fit and healthy, physically and mentally, so have made sure I dedicate time each week to exercise Score 3. Career I’m secure and happy in my job and feel I’m moving in the right direction with my career Score 4. Friends and family I’ve made a conscious effort to spend more quality time with my friends and family, strengthened old friendships and built new ones Score

5. Travel I’ve visited places on my bucket list, exploring new cultures and experiences Score 6. Hobbies I have made time to practice the things I love, enjoyed picking up old hobbies and have even tried some new activities Score 7. Emotional wellbeing I attend to my mental health and take time to reflect on my day.

I know who to talk to if I need support Score 8. Private life I’m content in my personal life and am happy with my relationship status Score 9. Health I’ve been well for most of the year and maintain a good level of health, fitness and nutrition Score

December 2018 BA LA N CE

Now add up your total, flip the page and prepare for what 2019 has in store for you!

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A N N U A L C H E C K- U P

the manua l

The Total

9-20

HAVING A WOBBLE Balance is tricky to master, so don’t fret just yet. It seems as though you’re struggling to prioritise and make time for what’s really important, so looking at areas where you may be overachieving could be the starting point for finding equilibrium.

You may be spending lots of time working out, which can seem positive, but might negatively affect relationships with friends and family.

Consider redistributing your energies. Factor in elements which matter most and regularly practice self-care so you’re not running on empty. Taking small steps in these areas will help you achieve a greater life balance overall.

Try

Carole Ann Rice, a leading UK-based life coach, says…

“Living in an overwhelmed state is a choice, so learn to say ‘no’. It’s a complete sentence, meaning you don’t need to share your reason. Keep your to-do list to three priorities and don’t over-labour on tasks, as progress beats perfectionism. Build down time into your diary for socialising and hobbies – and honour it. Life isn’t all about the hamster wheel of toil.”

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RESULTS Total

21-33 ALMOST ON SOLID GROUND You’re pretty well balanced.

You can sometimes lose focus, and either lack or overdo it in certain areas, however you’re able to identify this and are capable of bringing situations back to where they should be. Using planning tools and carrying a diary or calendar could help you keep on track, and setting a solid routine and sticking to it will help in the areas you struggle with most. Allow this quiz to highlight what you could work on and improve in 2019 and although you may not be able to achieve perfect equilibrium, you will dramatically improve in the areas impacting upon you most.

Try

Total

34-45 SOLID AS A ROCK You clearly read Balance each month, and have taken on board some of our best tips and tricks for leading a truly #balanced lifestyle. Our advice is to become aware of the stability in different areas of your life and notice if something starts to slip; through consciousness we can correct anything.

Remember, life can change in the blink of an eye and it isn’t always about striving for perfection. Ultimately, celebrate how well you’re doing as achieving balance is no easy feat.

Try

Carole Ann Rice says…

“Don’t overcommit to events, and always build in a contingency plan and room for error or holdups. Taking regular breaks, prioritising what’s important in your day, and concentrating on the task at hand – not becoming distracted – will help with time management in all areas.

Looking at your diary a week ahead will allow you to plot, plan and keep everything in balance.”

Carole Ann Rice says…

“Well done on managing such a busy life!

Remember to check in regularly with yourself to ensure everything doesn’t start to pile up. Don’t procrastinate and do what needs to be done.

Start and finish a chore or project – never leave something undone – and mono, rather than multi, task. This will help keep things in balance and under control. If you under-promise and over-deliver, you will always win the day.”

BA LA N CE December 2018

FIND YOUR BALANCE OWN CENTRE GROUND LONG LIVE LAGOM The new Scandinavian buzzword, which preaches that anything above “just enough”’ is a waste of time.

Encouraging you to take a look at your priorities, Lagom is more than just a trend: it’s a way of life Lagom: The Swedish Art of Balanced Living by Linnea Dunne (£10, Octopus Publishing)

PLAN A Designed to help create alignment via management of personal schedules and to-do lists, this encourages you to set goals, practice selfreflection, spend time and money on things that make you happy and end each day on a positive note The 100-day Happiness Planner, £20 thehappinessplanner.co.uk

WE’RE ALL EARS Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place podcast welcomes a diverse range of guests who discuss life, love, loss, and everything in-between, revealing what happiness is to them and how they find it. This positivityboosting series will leave you feeling uplifted, inspired… and happy Fearne Cotton’s Happy Place podcast

FUTURE TENSE

the manua l

N AV I G AT I O N S L U G

hotwire

Tomorrow's world

Uncovering the latest gains in the world of fitness, which make your workout that little bit easier NEWSFLASH

TONE UP

Smartwatch gets sexy

The Tonal home-based fitness system is so painfully new it only ships to the San Francisco area.

But the company “look forward to sharing Tonal with the world”, which could be game-changing, because the wall-mounted touchscreen is like having a personal trainer in your room. Quality of reps are monitored, and sessions get tougher as you gain strength. tonal.com

Just because you want to wear a smartwatch doesn’t mean you have to lose anything in terms of style and panache.

That’s the thinking behind the beautiful Samsung Galaxy Watch, which tracks 40 exercises, monitors heart rate, sleep and stress levels, and even offers guided breathing. samsung.com/uk, £279

One put a ring on it

Too cool for pool?

Nike has conquered football, basketball and, obviously, athletics.

And from January, it’s turning its Sauron-like gaze on the pool with a brand new Nike Swim FLOW collection. But will they do budgie smugglers? nike.com, £TBC

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BA LA N CE November December 2018

PACK LEA DER We’ve always admired US fitness firm Peloton’s indoor cycling system, which brings group cycle classes to your front room. Now, their popup Covent Garden studio will let you see what all the fuss is about. onepeloton.co.uk, from £1,990

WORDS: XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX6.5PT/8PT APERCU

The newest recruits to the wellness ring craze are the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, and it’s easy to see the appeal. The Oura ring looks like a stunning piece of jewellery, but carries a raft of health tech, including a 3D accelerometer and geoscope, infrared lens and temperature scanner. ouraring.com, from €314

The

POSITIVITY Putting a big smile on your face to end the year index Scotland will offer free sanitary products to all students to try and banish period poverty In August, Pakistan pledged to plant

10 BILLION trees to combat climate change. As well as releasing oxygen, it’s hoped they will help to prevent flooding from glaciers in the country’s north

76 OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION NOW LIVES IN MIDDLEINCOME COUNTRIES

£10.3

BILLION

On the rise

Total donated to charity in 2017

Disaster relief

Annual deaths from natural disasters have decreased by three-quarters over the past 100 years

According to the Institute for Economics and Peace, Iceland is the most peaceful country in the world

ANIMAL ACTION

30 %

DROP

Electrical impulse

GIANT PANDAS Downgraded from ‘Endangered’ to ‘Vulnerable’

There are now more than a million electric cars in Europe, after sales soared by more than 40 per cent in the first half of 2018

SNOW LEOPARDS Downgraded from ‘Endangered’ to ‘Vulnerable’

since 2014, the cancer death rate for men and women has fallen by 25% from its 1991 peak, translating to more than 2.1 million lives saved 16

You've got male

In September, India scrapped its ban on homosexuality

Creatures fighting back from the brink of extinction include…

44%

OF 18-TO 24-YEAR-OLDS SAID THEY WOULD GIVE UP THEIR SMARTPHONES FOR DECEMBER TO RAISE £500 FOR CHARIT Y

OVER THE L AST 200 YEARS, WORLD GDP HAS SKYROCKE TED 100-FOLD. HUMANKIND HAS NEVER BEEN MORE PROSPEROUS OR PRODUCTIVE

BA LA N CE November December 2018

IBERIAN LYNX Downgraded from ‘Critically Endangered’ to ‘Endangered’

IN PLAS TIC BAGS O N THE SEABED S CHARGE INCE S WERE INTROD UCED

MORE THAN

90% OF THE WORLD’S POPULATION UNDER THE AGE OF 25 CAN READ AND WRITE

SOURCES: FACTFULNESS BY HANS ROSLING, SINGULARITYHUB.COM, UICC.ORG, MEDIUM.COM, AWEALTHOFCOMMONSENSE.COM, THE GUARDIAN,SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT, EV-VOLUMES,CHARITY COMMISSION, CLIMATE CHANGE NEWS

OP S NT RSU MG P N AV I GTAT IO LU

the th e manua ma nua l

S P E C I A L D E L I V E RY

Going

green For the snacker A real treat for the person in your life who always has the munchies, these healthy and natural snacks will be delivered straight to their door. Getting it to the couch is their job.

Sourced Box, £18.95 per month sourcedbox.com

For the eco warrior This sustainable option helps you to reduce waste, consume less and be more mindful each month. Tell your family, tell your friends, save the planet.

Authentic House, £19 per month authentichouse.co.uk

Box clever For the green-fingered Prickly but pretty, these little plants are a great gift for any aspiring Monty Don. Every month, subscribers will receive a beautiful plant in a handmade pot which can be delivered anywhere in the UK. Plant Post Club, from £70 for three months, geo-fleur.com

Remind them how much you care, every month, with these subscription boxes

For the bookworms For the couple that does everything together, this is ideal – a monthly, double dose of classic or contemporary literature.

The Willoughby Book Club £44.99 for three months thewilloughbybookclub.co.uk

Socially

aware

For the coffee lover Your morning pick-me-up, delivered. Not only does this freshly roasted coffee taste good, it also does good, with each subscription helping to train and employ homeless people in speciality coffee.

Old Spike Roastery, £6.95 per 200g bag oldspikeroastery.com

For

foodie friends For the pastaphile Who doesn’t like pasta? No one, that’s who.

Curb carb cravings of friends with a weekly delivery of five star pasta, seasonal sauces and garnishes. If this doesn’t get you invited round for dinner, nothing will.

Pasta Evangelists, from £13.90 per week pastaevangelists.com

For the stationery obsessed With products designed exclusively by different artists, as well as bringing some much needed colour and style to the recipient’s admin, every fourth box sold sees a new tree planted.

The Paper Gang, £10.95 per month papergang.ohhdeer.com

December 2018 BA LA N CE

For the friend in need Designed to relieve the pressures of modern life and combat depression with thoughtful, mood-boosting treats, your pal will feel as though you’re sending them a warm hug through the post every month.

Buddy Box, £21.50 per month blurtitout.org/buddybox

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photography B EL L A H OWARD

The gloriously unapologetic Lily Allen sits down with Balance editor Sophie Scott to talk therapy, the media and why she might step away from the spotlight

What lies

T

S H E E Z U S C H R I S T S U P E R S TA R

oo big for her boots. Gobby. Attention-seeker. Lily Allen has had many accusations levelled at her since she first exploded on to the music scene in 2005. So when I sat down for a chat with the artist, mother and author ahead of her upcoming sold-out shows at London’s Roundhouse, I’ll level with you: I wasn’t sure which way it was going to go.

Well, shame on me for pre-judging.

In fact, I found the 33-year-old surprisingly shy at the start of our interview. Understandably scarred by the British media, I got the distinct sense I had to prove myself to Lily, rather than the other way round.

There has, of course, been the well-documented drug and alcohol abuse, the scraps and the scrapes.

And Lily, who’s just returned from a 22-date tour of the US, was keen to set the record straight. “I just enjoyed the music and managed to make it through without a chronic bout of alcoholism, so that was great.”

As an artist, her success speaks for itself: global sellout tours, a new Mercury Prize short-listed Album of the Year in No Shame, and now a critically acclaimed autobiography, My Thoughts Exactly. However, Balance wondered if Lily ever regretted being so outspoken, when perhaps towing the party line would have been much healthier for the bank balance?

VOICE OF REASON “No, I don’t regret that,” she enthuses. “The thing is, truth and honesty have always been my currency. If I reeled that back in and started posting videos of myself in the gym and wearing trainers, people would be like, ‘Who the fuck are you?’ I do wish it didn’t have such a severe knock-on effect on my earning capacity, but that’s the way the world is right now.

“When I first started out, it felt like there were more artists around, but now there are lots of people with big Instagram followings and gym-honed bodies, who are given songs written by other people. I think we’re stuck in a bit of a rut in terms of dealing with expression. I find it odd that politically and socially, things have never been as fraught as they are now, or at least not in our

beneath

S H E E Z U S C H R I S T S U P E R S TA R

A N and just out of the school playground, Y SO L when people back you into a corner TE PER ME I you either retreat or you bite back.

I N K’ T F “I’m a bite back person, and O D E B AC T G A N D . . . it got me into more and more trouble, and gave them material.” It’s I’M ITE THA RE BLE this bite that makes Lily, well, Lily. Except ‘ B D M O O U behind that tough exterior and outlandish N A TO T R behaviour is a young woman evidently struggling IN ORE with her mental health and managing bipolar disorder (manic depression). “I think labels themselves don’t M

matter. Whether it’s bipolar, ADHD, depression, anxiety disorder, whatever, it’s the same solution; work on yourself, keep talking and maintain healthy relationships with people and things.”

Lily says therapy continues to help. “I’ve been seeing the same guy for about 10 years. It’s a good place to vent and process things you wouldn’t articulate to your family. He knows about my past relationships, my back story, so if I changed therapist every couple of years, I’d find it really difficult to have to re-cover old ground.” In reality, I can’t help but wonder if Lily’s finally found the dependable father figure she’s always craved. After all, in My Thoughts Exactly, Lily recalls how her dad, actor Keith Allen’s idea of childcare involved taking her to The Groucho Club. From age six, she knew the member’s club’s telephone number off by heart.

WRITE OF PASSAGE THOUGHT PROCESS

lifetime yet. There are none of these anarchic bands like The Clash, The Specials or Sex Pistols. I don’t think that’s a coincidence.”

PRESS GANG When I ask Lily what drives her, she declares, “I want to take down the oligarchs and the media barons!

Seriously! They’re destroying the women’s movement.”

Isn’t this a bit rich coming from a girl who bad-mouthed half the women in her industry? “I want to stress I was young and baited by those people. For the record, I’d never be horrible without provocation. The people I was in spats with were the same way. It perpetuated the myth women hate each other and are in competition.”

Lily’s dislike of the media, however, goes way beyond their treatment of her. In fact, she believes the press is directly responsible for having a negative impact on the mental state of the country. “You can see online the way people communicate and judge each other. It’s very similar to how the tabloids write about people. There’s a whole generation of kids who think that’s OK. That language is everywhere, and it’s pretty sad.”

Her only regret, in fact, is inadvertently giving the press what they wanted. So if there was one thing she’d like to tell her younger self? “To ‘Cartoon Lily’, I’d say: ‘Don’t bite’. The music industry and the British media is a pernicious place to exist and I think, with age and experience, it’s easy to see what’s going on. But when you’re thrown in at the deep end and you’re so young

22

Lily Allen told BBC Radio 4 show Mixtapes her dad, Keith, hasn’t spoken to her since she revealed in her book, My Thoughts Exactly, he suffered a cocaine-related heart attack at Glastonbury in 1998

So, what’s a Lily Allen Christmas like? “It changes every year because the kids spend one year with me and one with their dad. When it’s not a me-year, it’s quite lonely and I get down because I don’t have my kiddies opening their stockings and everything.”

When I ask if she fears having to explain her escapades to her daughters (Ethel, seven, and Marnie, five) when they grow up, she says, “I think if I wasn’t here and didn’t see so much of them, then they might have problems. But they will know the majority of what they’re reading is rubbish because they know me.”

The future could spell bad news for Lily’s fans, as it seems she’s in favour of stepping out of the limelight to pursue more writing; “I’m probably going to spend less time touring and releasing albums and more time writing for other people – and writing musicals.

I’ve started one and am about three-quarters of the way through. Maybe another book as well. Not autobiographical, but books about other things.”

We hope that doesn’t mean we see less of Lily. At a time when most of our entertainers are increasingly vanilla and fearful of saying anything remotely interesting for fear of missing out on that endorsement deal, artists such as Lily are vital. The world would be less colourful without her. So whatever she has to say next, we’ll be listening. B Lily Allen tours her latest album, No Shame, across the UK in December. For tickets, visit lilyallenmusic.com.

Her book, My Thoughts Exactly, is out now (Blink, £20)

BA LA N CE December 2018

RESOLVING CONFLICT Stephen Fulder has used mindfulness to help relations in the Middle East. He believes it can help in all our lives photography AUDREY SHTECINJO

The reason we often feel helpless when we find ourselves in situations of conflict is because they threaten us at our deepest primal core.

With this understanding we do not need to blame ourselves, but we do need to learn effective tools to shift and melt such conflicts.

Buddhist teachings are a huge resource when it comes to dealing with difficult life experiences. One of the best known is mindfulness. This is the capacity to become aware of what is happening in our inner and outer life, rather than living on autopilot. It is presence, awareness, and an ability to look directly at what we are experiencing.

Imagine what could happen in conflict situations if we were able to clearly see how we label the other person as ‘the problem’, and then let the labelling pass by. What would happen to our anger if we saw them as someone with issues and problems, just like us?

Or if we glimpsed sadness behind their eyes?

Mindfulness can help us step into the other person’s shoes, which is the basis for dissolving

24

CREATING DIALOGUE

The Israel Insight Society (the foremost organisation in Israel teaching meditative practices) uses mindfulness in its many peacebuilding workshops between Israelis and Palestinians. The first step involves cultivating an atmosphere of unhurried, friendly communication without agenda, accompanied by tea and biscuits. When you want to talk to your difficult neighbour, find a safe place and start with relaxed conversation before getting into the hardcore issues.

Then we move to mindfulness in dialogue and deep listening, which is when peace can be created. Deep listening involves giving full attention to the words, meaning, body language and presence of whomever is talking, and at the same time being aware of our own views, reactions and feelings. We asked participants to use ‘I’ language, rather than ‘you are’ or ‘you did’. When an Israeli or Palestinian feels the life-suffering violence brought to the other, everything changes.

Mindfulness allows you to see who is really sitting in front of you. Suddenly the ‘cruel occupier’ or ‘terrorist’ becomes a family man or a struggling student. If we sit with someone we are in conflict with and ask them about their daily difficulties, they become human.

BEING IN THE MOMENT

Mindfulness also opens the door to forgiveness because we see for ourselves that every moment is new with fresh possibilities. The

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STEPS TO HELP RESOLVE CONFLICT

SEEING “THE ENEMY” AS HUMAN

all conflict. According to Buddhist teachings, our ability to do that is called ‘sacred’.

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C

hristmas should be a time of peace and joy, but all too easily, it can erupt into arguments, family rows and meltdowns, thanks to of the combination of drink, exhaustion and being cooped up with people we’ve not seen in a while. Conflicts can break out at any time in our lives, not just at Christmas. And whether it’s a family rift, an infuriating neighbour or a stressful work situation, sooner or later, they need to be addressed. We often feel we don’t have the means to deal with conflict, so it could be enormously helpful to learn new techniques to transform challenging situations.

1. BE ACTIVE Take risks, knowing that life is dynamic and you can trust the power of change

2. BE HUMAN Meet with the difficult person in a supportive

F R I E N D LY A D V I C E

only thing that drags disputes on and on is our stories, narratives and the hurts we carry. If we see clearly being in the moment resets the past, we can step out of old tracks and begin anew.

Buddhist teachings are of the heart as well as of the mind. Mindfulness trains the heart to open the channels of compassion and friendliness – to be for, not against, ourselves and others. We did peace walks throughout the length and breadth of Israel and Palestine using this teaching, and it brought tears to the eyes of people in the street, to see Jews and Arabs quietly walking together, emanating care to everyone and demonstrating how peace is possible. A famous Buddhist statement reminds us that hate is never removed by more hate, but by its opposite, namely love.

STAYING CALM

setting and reduce insecurity by being relaxed and human

3. BREATHE Whenever you feel challenged, take a moment to breathe, and then watch (with mindfulness and interest) your responses: in the

body (e.g. contraction of the stomach) and the mind (e.g. resentful thoughts and emotions, the rising of anger)

life, their experience, their fears and needs, and then sense your responses to their words

4. TALK

Keep the dialogue on first-person experience instead of so called “facts”, accusations, or right or wrong

Invite the other person for dialogue, and practice deep listening.

Sense their pain, their

5. LISTEN

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Conflict is sustained by chains of actions and reactions. It can be stopped by cutting the chains of reactivity. But surely, you might ask, if someone is shouting at us, how can we not respond? The answer is that one of the fruits of mindfulness practice is an ability to watch the coming and going of experiences, both pleasant and unpleasant, with more detachment and stability. When we apply this to conflict situations, we will find ourselves less easily disturbed by what others say or do. In one of our workshops, Israelis and Palestinians suddenly started to scream at each other.

I couldn’t control it, so I sat quietly until the anger petered out. I turned to the Palestinian co-facilitator, and said, “Sorry, I lost it”. “No”, she answered, “You didn’t. You radiated a quiet steadiness which settled everyone remarkably quickly”. It’s just like the start of Rudyard Kipling’s poem If (If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs…).

In the midst of harsh words, be aware of your inner space and quiet, and you will find you don’t always need to respond. This is not indifference, it is equanimity – a steadiness like the ballast on a ship that stops it rolling from side to side with every wave. From this place you will be able to cut the painful chains of reactivity, and you may be able to offer new ideas that can transform the situation. B Stephen Fulder PhD’s new book, What’s Beyond Mindfulness?, is out on 17 January (Watkins, £10.99). Find out more about the Israel Insight Society’s work at stephenfulder.com

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words ELIZABETH BENNETT

HAPPY HORMONES:

Exercise caution Planning on getting fit in the new year? Then it’s time to swot up on how different workouts can affect your health

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I M - BA LA N C I N G AC T S

H

ealth is for life, not just for Christmas.

And while “New year, new you” may be an outdated trope, the clean slate offered by 1 January has many of us thinking about our wellbeing goals. When it comes to fitness there’s one area that often gets overlooked: our hormones. Much like diet, sleep and stress, exercise impacts our hormone levels. In fact, it’s a crucial building block of balanced hormone health.

Considering the large part our hormones play in overall wellness, this is not something to ignore. “Hormones are one of the body’s main signalling systems. They direct biochemical responses that regulate metabolism, sleep, mood, immunity and more.

There are very few things unaffected by hormone levels,” Rhian Stephenson, nutritionist and CEO of fitness studio, Psycle, explains.

When you work out, your hormones are affected in two different ways.

“Exercise elicits both a hormonal response that affects chemical signalling, and other non-hormonal responses that can affect different hormones in the body,” Rhian reasons.

“Staying active is one of the best ways to maintain harmony in a highly complex system of interactions.”

WORDS: IMAGES: XXXXGETTY XXXX XXXX IMAGES XXXX XXXX6.5PT/8PT APERCU

BALANCE HORMONE LEVELS While all exercise affects our hormones, each workout has a different impact.

“Splitting your workouts between cardio, resistance (for example, weights), HIIT (high intensity exercise) and yoga will ensure you’re balancing all of the major male and female hormones, cortisol and insulin,” she states.

Cardio for example is helpful in balancing oestrogen, the primary female sex hormone. When levels of oestrogen are too high or low it can lead to bloating or water retention, menstrual cycle issues and mood swings. It can also put women at more risk of developing both breast and ovarian cancer.

“Exercise helps to regulate your oestrogen levels by increasing lean muscle mass, which increases metabolism, which then helps to burn more fat and reduce fat mass,” explains Dr Sohere Roked, GP and hormone expert. “Also, since fat cells naturally produce harmful oestrogen, anything that keeps you lean will help balance oestrogen levels,” On the other hand, resistance or endurance training has the biggest impact on testosterone levels, present in both the sexes.

“Exercises like weight lifting and squats, both boost testosterone levels

RESISTANCE TRAINING HAS A BIG IMPACT ON TESTOSTERONE and HGH (human growth hormone).

These are key for both muscle growth and repair,” Sohere expands. For men this is the dominant hormone and fundamental to all aspects of health.

“Testosterone is responsible for libido, fertility, muscle growth and retention, and has important functions in mood, heart health and energy,” Rhian comments.

While feel-good endorphins may be addictive, it is possible to over do it. Cortisol – known as the stress hormone and part of our fight-or-flight mechanism – is released when the body experiences too much physical stress, sometimes as a result of over-exercise.

“Although cortisol helps promote fat metabolism, exercising for too long can elevate levels of cortisol to break down muscle protein for fuel instead of conserving it to be used to repair damaged tissues,” Sohere warns.

“Extreme levels of high cortisol can also have negative health implications

December 2018 BA LA N CE

such as suppressing the immune system and encouraging fat gain around the stomach area,” Angelique Panagos, Nutritional Therapist and Hormone Expert, confirms.

If you are not an athlete or training for a big event, a gruelling seven-day-aweek program of intense exercise isn’t necessarily the best idea. It’s better to keep your schedule varied and mix in resting or active recovery days where you keep moving with walking or gentle stretching.

Cortisol is also the reason why timing gym excursions is vitally important.

With many of us suffering from a variety of sleep issues, we don’t want anything else working against us, so instead schedule more intense workouts in the morning or on your lunch break.

DON’T FORGET YOGA Yoga, however, is a great evening exercise to prepare you for a peaceful night’s kip. “It increases activity of the parasympathetic nervous system which makes you feel calm. This helps relieve stress, lower blood pressure, stimulate the immune system, decreases cortisol and anxiety, and can help thyroid function,” Rhian reasons. She also adds that yoga can play a part in assisting fertility. “In women, chronic stress can affect ovulation by decreasing activity of the hypothalamus, the area of the brain that triggers the ovaries to release eggs, while in men chronic stress can lower sperm count. Studies have shown that yoga can reduce stress.”

While assessing your hormones is important for everyone when planning new year fitness goals, if you think you might have imbalances, visiting your doctor or seeing a functional nutritionist should be your first port of call. “If you suspect you have a hormonal imbalance, track your symptoms and then consult a specialist, who can carry out testing for you,” Rhian emphasises.

In the meantime, exercise isn’t off the cards, it’s just important to remember to keep that balanced approach. B

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Nordic hugging h

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ost of us love London, yet the Big Smoke can feel like somewhere you shouldn’t so much as look at a stranger, let alone hug one (unless you’re in a club at 5am). It can make for an occasionally lonely and somewhat discombobulating experience (a bit like still being in said club at 9am), so it’s one of the reasons Nordic Cuddle treatments are enjoying an upward trajectory.

If you’re feeling imbalanced, it’s a place to go to return to calm and serenity. And not since Ronseal’s legendary marketing campaign has another treatment done exactly what it says on the tin: you turn up to the Nordic Cuddle studio in Putney and hug Finnish practitioner Rebekka Mikkola for the best part of an hour. Yes, really.

We’ll level with you – we were a little apprehensive. After all, I’m not sure I’ve cumulatively hugged my wife for an hour across nearly 10 years together, so this was truly out-of-the-comfort-zone stuff. “Even

well informed ARE YOU CHASING THE IDEAL WORK/LIFE BALANCE? CHANGE YOUR APPROACH, AND IT MIGHT FIND YOU…

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though we interact with people in our daily lives, sometimes it lacks depth of connection,” explains Rebekka. “In a cuddle session, it’s not necessarily only about the touch and the hugs. The big benefit is the actual connection, sharing emotions, showing attention, listening, understanding and being present in the moment. There is a power in that connection that has a profound impact on how you see yourself.”

We start by sitting and holding hands with our eyes closed, before standing and hugging. I can feel my heart racing but, soon enough, my pulse lowers, my shoulders de-tense, my fingers stop trembling and… have I just relaxed? Rebekka says: “I’ve realised that in connecting with others, we can actually relate to ourselves more. In my experience, it can be good for self-actualisation.”

And that certainly is the case.

Our breathing regulates, and the experience proves utterly soothing.

Next, we sit and hug before lying down and embracing. Rebekka and

For most people, achieving that elusive equilibrium known as the work/life balance is about as likely as spotting the Loch Ness Monster.

Our quest to uncover this sweet spot is so consuming, it’s leaving us more unfulfilled and disillusioned than ever. So maybe it’s time we re-framed the narrative. Stewart Friedman, Practice Professor

I have known each other for a matter of minutes, yet there’s now not even a trace of awkwardness. In fact, at one point, I actually nod off. Indeed, in an age where many of us don’t even talk to friends – not when there’s WhatsApp, right guys? – it is refreshing to experience such closeness.

Will it all result in an outbreak of mass stranger embracing across London? Sadly not; you’d still need to go clubbing for that. B

HUG LIFE Give it a go London can be unforgiving and lonely.

This is a potential haven for anyone possibly lacking connection and platonic intimacy

BOOKING INFO Cost From £45 for one hour

Emeritus of Management Director, Wharton Work/Life Integration Project at the University of Pennsylvania, suggests we focus our energies on achieving harmony instead.

Do adjust your sets This means identifying opportunities where we can integrate different areas of our lives, rather than pitting them

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High point Physically feeling myself totally relax

Booking info nordiccuddle. com

Low point Initially adjusting to the intimacy of the treatment

against each other, like carving out a career that incorporates our passions, or using a hobby to enhance work performance.

There will never be “perfect balance”, but don’t let a little imbalance knock you off course. Instead, adjust your mindset, and you’ll find you can lead whatever life you desire.

Laura Hill, Senior Editor, welltodoglobal.com

WORDS: JAMES GILL, LAURA HILL. ILLUSTRATION: ACUTEGRAPHICS.CO.UK

This tactile therapy asks you to get up close and personal with a Finnish master cuddler in the name of relaxation

BALANCE PROMOTION

A cup of festive cheer Looking to counteract your Christmas exuberance? Try Newby’s Silken Pyramids Collection for ultimate luxury in a cup

S

elf-care is arguably the buzz term of the year, and it’s undeniable taking a little time out is vital to live a happy, healthy life. But with the festive season’s endless party invites and heady excess beckoning, it’s harder to abstain and make time for ourselves.

Thankfully, Newby Teas’ Silken Pyramids collection ushers in welcome respite from your seasonal overindulgence, offering a healthy and luxurious treat each time you put the kettle on.

Boasting whole-leaf tea for superior quality, the Silken Pyramids’ unique shape allows the contents room to expand, making for a memorable cup and the chance to temporarily switch off from the Christmas commotion.

Individually sealed for unparalleled freshness – and served in entirely biodegradable bags – each of the 12 blends available have been made using @NewbyTeas

only the finest tea leaves and highest quality, all-natural ingredients. From the sweet and citrusy notes of Earl Grey and familiar malty embrace of English Breakfast, to the zesty delights of Rooibos Orange or the calming notes of Chamomile tisane, each award-winning flavour is sure to offer a much-needed moment of relief.

And considering the numerous health benefits of tea, every cup you make will help maintain a semblance of your balanced lifestyle throughout this hectic festive season.

Available in packs of 15 online, or from Waitrose and Ocado, the historic tea wares-inspired packaging is as delectable as the tea inside. And if you’re in need of last-minute present inspiration, you’ll find a range of stunning Silken Pyramids gift sets and selection boxes which are bound to go down a storm under anyone’s tree.

@NewbyTeas

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Available at selected Waitrose stores and Ocado. For more information, visit newbyteas.co.uk

pick y

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po i r u o

Getting in a pickle Plan on enjoying a festive tipple? Florence Cherruault may help do away with your hangover

F

lorence Cherruault never thought pickle juice would alter how she lived her life, yet it did. And her story is inspiring for anyone with an open mind and an open heart, because you never know where they might take you.

A chance swig of a “Pickleback” – a popular, if cultish, tipple – in a New York bar ultimately changed her life, when she chased her shot of whiskey with a glass of pickle juice.

Florence could easily have gagged and vowed “Never again”. Instead, a seed was planted and the tangy drink led to a mini-empire.

WORDS: JAMES GILL

BOTTOM’S UP “It’s a shock when you have it,” the 28-year-old admits, “because it’s like nothing you’ve ever tried before. I always say you should have a second one. Obviously that gets you more drunk, but it’s one of those things that just works. It’s a love/ hate thing; I’ve had so many people ask, ‘What the hell is this?’, while others declare ‘it’s amazing!’ and they tell all their friends.”

And that’s how you build an audience. Florence started creating her own pickle juice in 2014, selling it to a pub who immediately requested 40 bottles. Momentum built and Florence launched her own bar in Hackney, The Pickle House, followed by a book, Pickle Juice.

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“I saw pickle juice as an alcoholic addition,” Florence beams. “And now it’s nice to connect all the different ways you can use it.”

In what became a happy accident, Florence realised pickle juice was more than just the chips to whiskey’s fish; it was an undiscovered world of health, thanks in part to being packed with electrolytes contained in the salts and vinegar. So, does that really mean drinking it on a night out helps calm your hangover?

“I’ve tried and tested this,” she laughs, “and it’s hard to say. But that’s because I’m drinking other things as well!

“Loads of US soccer players drink jugs of pickle juice to help aleviate muscle cramps, and there’s even a pickle juice company in the US that sells mainly for health reasons.”

And now, it’s gone beyond pickle juice. “Drinking vinegars and shrubs is my new favourite thing. It’s so good and such a nice way to drink.

That vinegary bite makes it taste much better.” The ‘shrub’ Florence refers to is a combination of vinegar and sugar used to preserve fruits, and the plan is to launch a shrub soda in the new year. “It’ll be the perfect mixer for cocktails, as well as a drink in its own right.”

So, the next time you go boozing, you can tell yourself it’s research for your big business idea.

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LA SOIRÉE BY PING PONG Serves 1 For the Cocktail • 35ml Hendrick’s Gin • 15ml St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur (alternatively, you can use elderflower cordial) • 10ml pickle juice (see below) • Dash of egg white, or use chickpea water to make it vegan • 1 tsp lime juice • Ice cubes (for shaking) • 8 mint leaves (plus 1 to garnish) For the Pickle Juice • 1 tbsp white mustard seeds • 1 tsp coriander seeds • 1 tsp celery seeds • 1 cucumber, sliced lengthways into 2.5cm sticks or 2cm thick circles • A few dashes of Tabasco • 500ml water • 500ml apple cider vinegar • 1 tsp ground turmeric • 2 tbsps salt • 5 tbsps unrefined caster sugar 1 Place the mustard, coriander and celery seeds in a sterilised Kilner-type jar, then pack them as tightly as you can with the cucumbers.

2 Combine the remaining ingredients in a large saucepan and heat slowly until everything has dissolved.

3 Using a funnel, pour the hot pickling juice into the jar. Make sure the juice covers the cucumbers, but leave about 1cm of room between the lid and the pickle liquor. Seal the jar, then leave to cool for a couple of hours. Once cooled, refrigerate.

4 The pickles will be ready to eat the next day, but they’re best left for two weeks to mellow out the acidity of the vinegar, making the pickle juice smoother to drink.

5 Pour your cocktail ingredients into a shaker and muddle until the juices release.

6 Top with ice, then seal and shake vigorously for 10 seconds.

7 Strain into a Martini glass, garnish with a mint leaf… and enjoy!

FER-MENT TO BE

Bitter sweet

RASPBERRY SHRUB SOUR Serves 1 For the Cocktail • 25ml Raspberry Shrub (see below) • 40ml Pisco • 20ml lemon juice • 1 small egg white, or substitute with chickpea water to make it vegan • Ice cubes (for shaking) • Lemon peel (to garnish) For the Raspberry Shrub • 1 cup unrefined caster sugar • 1 cup water • 150g raspberries • 1 cup Champagne vinegar or apple cider vinegar

Life of the party

1 To make the Raspberry Shrub, combine the sugar and water in a saucepan over a medium heat and stir until the sugar has dissolved.

2 Add the raspberries and simmer over a low heat until they break down and blend with the water and sugar.

3 Add the vinegar and simmer for another couple of minutes to allow the flavours to marry together. Set aside to cool, then strain through a fine-mesh sieve to separate the raspberry solids.

4 Pour into a sterilised glass jar or bottle and store in the refrigerator for up to one month.

5 Combine your Sour ingredients in a cocktail shaker, top with ice and shake vigorously for 10 seconds.

Strain into a Coupe glass, and garnish with lemon peel.

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FER-MENT TO BE

Serves 1 For the Cocktail • 50ml Kimchi Juice (see below) • 75ml beetroot juice • 1 tsp Sriracha • 1 tsp sesame oil • Pinch of coarsely ground black pepper • Ice cubes (to serve) • Extra Kimchi (to garnish) For the Kimchi Juice • 2 whole Chinese cabbages or white cabbages • 315g table salt • 1 bunch spring onions • 1 daikon (white radish. If you can’t find daikon, use 4–5 radishes) • 1 medium carrot • 18 garlic cloves • ½ a large brown onion • 5cm piece of ginger • 60ml fish sauce. Alternatively, peel a ripe pineapple and blend the flesh into a purée for a vegan version • 200g Korean hot chilli flakes • 3 tbsps sweet rice flour • 750ml water • 3 tbsps light brown sugar 1 Cut the cabbage into bite-size pieces and place in a large bowl.

Cover with cold water, add the salt and set aside for about 90

minutes, turning every half hour to ensure even salting. Drain, then set aside.

2 While the cabbage is salting, combine the sweet rice flour and water in a large saucepan over a medium heat to make a porridge.

Stir for about five minutes, or until a smooth glutinous paste forms. Add the sugar and stir until dissolved, then remove from the heat and set aside to cool.

3 While the porridge is cooling, slice the spring onions, daikon and carrot into thin batons. Blend the garlic, onion and ginger in a processor until it forms a paste.

4 Combine the cabbage, porridge, paste and sliced vegetables in a bowl and add the fish sauce and chilli flakes.

5 Mix well, transfer to a sterilised airtight container or glass jar, and leave to ferment for two weeks.

Blitz the Kimchi in a blender and strain through a fine-mesh sieve.

There are more than 180 varieties of Kimchi. As most types contain onions, garlic, ginger, and chili, researchers believe the benefits are multifold — from fighting cancer to improving mental health and skin*

6 Build the ingredients over ice in a Highball glass, starting with the kimchi juice, then the beetroot juice, followed by the Sriracha, sesame oil and black pepper.

Garnish with a piece of Kimchi.

VERDE MARIA Serves 1 For the Cocktail • 25ml white rum • 25ml green chilli liqueur • 125ml Maria Mix (see below) • Ice cubes (to serve) • Lime wedges, avocado slices, cornichons and rosemary sprigs (to garnish) For the Maria Mix • 1 cucumber, peeled and de-seeded • 6 sprigs of coriander • 50ml Pickle Juice (see La Soirée by Ping Pong recipe on p30) • 1 green pepper • Juice of ½ a lime • 1 celery stalk • Pinch each of ground cumin, celery salt, ground coriander and coarsely ground black pepper • 100ml water • 10 dashes of Tabasco Mild Green Pepper Sauce

JUICE DIET

You can't beet this

Pickle Juice

by Florence Cherruault is out on 27 December (Hardie Grant, £15)

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(H)ave Maria

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1 To make the Maria Mix, combine all the ingredients in a mixer and blend to a purée. Pass through a muslin into a bowl.

2 Build the ingredients over ice in a Rocks glass, starting with the rum, then the green chilli liqueur and, finally, the Maria Mix. 3 Stir thoroughly, and garnish with a lime wedge, a slice of avocado, cornichons and a sprig of rosemary. B

*SOURCE: GUIDE.MICHELIN.COM

KIMCHI SPICED BEETSAUCE

BALANCE PROMOTION

More than a festive pitstop

The pop-up General Store & Bar is Seedlip’s early Christmas gift

Visit 6 until 1 be� Decem

Who could say “No” to a delicious Seedlip NOgroni?

W

hen you’ve experienced Christmas shopping in London, you’ll know finding the perfect place to recharge and take a well-earned break from the madness is never easy.

Thankfully, your search is now over, all thanks to Seedlip. The makers of the world’s first distilled nonalcoholic spirit have launched the General Store & Bar, a pop-up where you can rest weary limbs, enjoy a revitalising drink and even take the chance to broaden your horizons.

Set across a stunning two-tiered space in beautiful Mayfair, it runs until 16 December and even if you enter expecting little more than a delicious drink, you’ll leave with a new perspective.

First up, Seedlip’s General Store boasts a wide range of items to buy, including awardwinning non-alcoholic Seedlip’s pop-up spirits, home accessories General Store & Bar and literary treasures. in Mayfair’s Duke Street The holy trinity of Seedlip @seedlipdrinks

@SeedlipDrinks

THE SEEDLIP NOGRONI • 35ml Seedlip Spice 94 • 25ml nonalcoholic Bitter Aperitif • 25ml nonalcoholic Sweet Vermouth • Orange twist to garnish • Serve in an old fashioned glass, build and short stir

expressions – Garden 108, Spice 94 and new kid on the block, zesty Grove 42 – will be available to enjoy and purchase, including 20cl bottles, making them the ideal stocking filler.

SUPER-SENSORY Visitors are strongly recommended to check out the downstairs bar, where they can enjoy a range of hot and cold non-alcoholic cocktails, including the award-winning NOgroni. And for anyone looking to expand their mind, there is a full programme of innovative workshops, such as a non-alcoholic masterclass, a London Terrariums session and a Christmas wreath workshop.

Seedlip’s General Store & Bar will provide you with the perfect sensory, seasonal experience.

For more information, visit seedlipdrinks.com

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MISTLETOE & WHINE

vodka) are more easily metabolised, and your liver is primed to deal with their effects more efficiently, meaning hangover symptoms are minimised.

There are also a host of natural measures to help avoid the worst of the hangover horribles…

TAKE L-GLUTAMINE One teaspoon dissolved in water of this naturallyoccurring amino acid before bed will help protect your gut lining. The gut wall will have been taxed fairly heavily if you’ve been out painting the town, and consuming questionable cocktail concoctions.

DOSE UP ON POST-PARTY CURCUMIN

Natural cures for hangovers Indulged in too much Yuletide spirit? These essentials are your post-party first aid kit words A MELIA R ICHARD S illustration VICKI T URN ER

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P

arty season is officially nigh. Cue late nights, copious canapés, Secret Santa and a whole lotta booze. The secret to a successful festive period is to get involved. Say “yes” to that elf-themed fancy dress party, let your hair down at the office shin-dig, and relish those family get-togethers because your Great Aunt Maude may actually have a thing or two to share about girl power you hadn’t thought about.

In all these scenarios, you will be meeting people, having new conversations and expanding your social world, all of which can have an enormous impact on wellbeing and self-esteem, which are fundamental to good health. So, while you can – and should – eat, drink and be merry, there are steps you can take to allay the inevitable groggy-headed, productivitysapping next day crash.

First things first: be mindful of what you’re drinking. And by that, we mean you need to consider what your drink is mixed with. Where possible, choose a tipple which is organic, devoid of refined sugar (which can lead to inflammation and feeling even more “ugh” the next day) and free from sulphites or yeast. Drinks that tick these boxes (like gin or

The active ingredient in turmeric has a proven track record of helping the liver detoxify alcohol which, in turn, helps reduce classic hangover symptoms of foggy brain and low mood. Another which can be mixed with water, it also improves hydration.

POP SOME VITAMIN C Great for cracking down on the oxidative stress that is part and parcel of party season. To make the most of vitamin C’s powerful ability to protect against free radical damage to organs, skin, hair and brain, enjoy at least 1-2g before, during or after drinking.

GO COCO-NUTS Coconut water is like nature’s energy drink.

Because it boasts naturally isotonic properties, it can help rehydrate the body after the most serious of festive functions, with its high sodium content encouraging the body to recover quicker for the next round…

The great thing about these Christmas miracle workers is that you can use them all at once, so you can enjoy a speedy recovery and look forward to your next soirée… B IN ASSOCIATION WITH

❷

❶

1. Lipolife Liposomal Curcumin C3 Complex, £39.99 for 250ml 2. Rebel Kitchen Coconut Water, £6.50 for 750ml 3. Altrient C Liposomal Vitamin C, £39.99 for 30 satchets 4. Pure Encapsulations L-Glutamine, £65.50 for 250 capsules

AFTER EFFECTS

❸

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All products available at planetorganic.com

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H O - H O - H O L I D AY

Alternative

FESTIVE GETAWAYS Your ‘bah humbug’ antidote to Christmas excesses

JOIN A COMMUNITY Experience Week at Findhorn Foundation If you’re looking to escape the relatives and embark upon a unique and transformational learning experience over this festive period, then an Experience Week at Findhorn Foundation could be just the ticket.

As part of a multigenerational and culturally diverse group of fellow adventurers, you’ll become immersed in the ecovillage and spiritual community.

The daily activities offer laughter and new experiences, while encouraging selfreflection, personal growth and mindfulness, empowering you to live a more sustainable and balanced life.

BAH HUMBUG BAILOUT Experience Week, from £490, findhorn.org

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ESCAPE THE RAT RACE Lundy Island With unspoiled landscape, road-less terrain and peaceful, wide open spaces, the deserted Lundy Island in the Bristol Channel, just off the coast of North Devon, is the perfect place to avoid the Christmas hububb. Hop over for the day, or enjoy a week-long stay in one of 23 unique self-catering properties. This little island has a lot to offer, with activities including surfing, diving and climbing, while spectacular views of the sea and mainland make it an idyllic haven from where to see off the final days of 2018… at a safe distance.

BAH HUMBUG BAILOUT Castle Keep North, £753 for 7 nights landmarktrust.org.uk

GIVE A LITTLE

Riad 72 Hotel, Marrakech

Crisis, London

Heading to a nonChristian country is a great way to sidestep Christmas, so pack your sunnies and fly away to the land of riads, souks and haggling. At a balmy 20°C throughout December, Marrakech makes for a fabulous winter escape. Located in the Bab Doukkala neighbourhood and part of the Medina, the luxury Riad 72 is the perfect destination for anyone in need of a short break.

In fact, the traditionallystyled hotel (with on-site restaurant offering authentic Moroccan cuisine), is perhaps the best base to experience Arabic culture. Hammam (Turkish baths) and massage treatments are available, while a rooftop terrace offers spectacular views of the city. B

Rather than spending hours on end looking for the perfect gift, why not just give the gift of your time? Whether it’s just for a few hours or over a few days, you can really help those in need this Christmas. By volunteering at Crisis, you can provide immediate help for homeless people at a time when they most need it.

With roles ranging from helping to cook and serve meals, to simply having a chat and playing games with vulnerable members of society, you could make a real difference to someone this Yuletide.

BAH HUMBUG BAILOUT Volunteer at Crisis this Christmas, London crisis.org.uk

BA LA N CE December 2018

ENJOY A SWAN SONG The Swan, Southwold For some must-have (and much needed) R&R, whisk yourself away to The Swan Hotel in Southwold, Suffolk. With exquisite food available in The Still Room restaurant, spa treatments on speed dial and yoga in The Reading Room, there’s no need to leave the hotel, ever.

However, if you would like to stretch your legs and explore the local area, the beach is just on the doorstep as well as The RSPB’s flagship nature reserve at Minsmere, while the high street is jam-packed with eclectic shops and boutiques.

BAH HUMBUG BAILOUT The Fabulous Room, from £200 per night theswansouthwold.co.uk

BAH HUMBUG BAILOUT Deluxe Room, from £189 per night, riad72.com

WORDS: LIBBY WILLIAMS; IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK

FLEE THE COUNTRY

W H AT ’ S O N

CULTURE ounter

December delivers presents no matter how naughty you’ve been

Carla's way Carla Gugino is scaring us silly in The Haunting of Hill House and knows just why it’s so terrifying WHAT WAS THE MOMENT YOU FELT YOU’D TRULY BROKEN THROUGH TO THE BIG TIME? There have been a few, but aged 27, I was cast as the mother in Spy Kids. I must’ve been at least 10 years too young for the role, but Robert Rodriguez said to me, “If we do our job right, no one will even question the age.” And they didn’t. He really made a ground-breaking family movie that found a huge audience.

WHAT DO YOU DO TO STAY GROUNDED? Life seems to be a constant search for balance, no? Sometimes we’re more successful than others. The key for me as I’ve gotten older is, “Everything in moderation. Including moderation.” The things that I find the most nurturing in life are long meals with friends, long walks in nature, a dip in warm turquoise water - I am a Florida native, after all - and incorporating daily meditation into my life.

The Haunting of Hill House is on Netflix now

Carla got her first big break in 1996 as Michael J Fox’s love interest in Spin City, and has enjoyed a 30-year career in film and TV, working with everyone from Robert De Niro to The Rock

screen time

WORDS: JAMES GILL PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES

HOW TERRIFYING IS THE HAUNTING . . . ?

I find the kind of horror that The Haunting explores to be far scarier than relying solely on jump scares.

It’s fun when you involuntarily jump out of your seat - no doubt - but then there’s the kind of terror that seeps in and stays. This show explores that.

FAMILY FUN

BOXSET

BLOCKBUSTER

Anticipation levels are through the roof as Emily Blunt follows in Julie Andrews’ prim, Oscar-winning footsteps.

In cinemas 19 December

Your new box-set binge? The word is strong on this German crime drama, as two Teutonic ’tecs try to keep their heads above a corrupt police force.

On Netflix now

Set in 1987, the trailer melted hearts with director Travis Knight nailing the retro feel as Hailee Steinfeld pals up with the titular Transformer.

In cinemas 26 December

MARY POPPINS RETURNS

DOGS OF BERLIN

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BUMBLEBEE

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CULTURE ounter

OUT AND ABOUT

FESTIVE

COMEDY

This open-air market will instantly fill you with Yuletide joy.

Until 27 December, Southbank

A rare chance to catch the US star in London.

Wanda has done it all, from performing for the Obamas to locking horns with Larry David.

11 January, Union Chapel, livenation.co.uk

THEATRE

ART

MUSIC

Exploration of male and female nudes from the 16th through to the 20th century.

Until 21 December, Rafael Valls Ltd, artrabbit.com

Catch the so-hotright-now 2018 Mercury Music Prize winners at one of the country’s best live music venues.

19 December, O2 Academy Brixton

SOUTHBANK CENTRE WINTER MARKET

RSC’S DON QUIXOTE David Threlfall and Rufus Hound star in James Fenton’s hugely enjoyable adaptation of the classic novel.

Until 2 February, rsc.org.uk

WANDA SYKES

SEX & SENSUALITY

FOOD & DRINK

MALTBY STREET NIGHT MARKET Mince pies and mulled wine beneath Bermondsey’s railway arches will sate Christmas cravings.

Fridays in December, 4-9.30pm, maltby.st

WOLF ALICE

Nocturnal

beauty Want to optimise your pre-sleep regime?

These products are worthy of the Zzz-list words LIBBY WILLIAMS photography WILL IRELAND

EL EMEN TAL HERB OLO GY MUS CL E MELT B AL M This warming balm, laced with ginger, chilli and turmeric, helps increase blood circulation, melting away tension and relaxing muscles at the end of a long day £25 for 50g elementalherbology.com

KIEHL’S MIDNIGHT RECOVERY CONCENTRATE Made with 99.8 per cent naturally-derived ingredients – and 100 per cent paraben-free – this overnight treatment tones and freshens skin for a brighterlooking complexion £49.50 for 50ml kiehls.co.uk

REN MAGNESIUM B O OS T ER B AT H S ALTS Magnesium is imperative to overall muscle health and stress relief. As most of us are deficient, these salts have been extracted from the 250 million year old Zechstein Sea £28 for 750g, spacenk.com

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WA S T E D I S P O S A L

Voluntary excess Despite what you may think, using too much product could ruin your skin

R

eading Yuval Noah Harari’s bestselling history of humankind, Sapiens, I was greatly reassured to discover gorging on high-calorie food may be hard-wired into our brains, a legacy from the days when food was scarce. It’s a great get-out-of-jail card when paired with festive excess, but it can’t explain beauty exuberance.

Overdoing the eau de toilette or maxing out on moisturiser has nothing to do with survival, and is actually bad for both the environment and your wallet. Worse, it may even be counter-productive to your body, with some dermatologists, including LAbased Zein Obagi, believing excessive use of moisturiser can make skin look older by dampening its natural hydration mechanisms.

LITTLE AND OFTEN

LEE KYNASTON

MAIN IMAGE: GETTY IMAGE. *SOURCE: FDA.GOV

Although a firm believer that real beauty comes from the inside, Lee sees no harm in giving the outside some TLC

Using multiple exfoliants (for example, face scrubs alongside Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) washes) can leave skin irritated.

Overuse of harsh oil control products can actually stimulate skin to produce more oil to maintain its natural protective barrier, while dousing yourself with too much fragrance is almost always a rather pungent turn-off.

Both men and women tend to fall prey to the “If I use more, I’ll get better results” approach to skin and haircare but in reality, the opposite is often true. Take eye creams, which are potent products. The skin around that area is exceptionally thin and sensitive

T HE AC ID TEST

*Products containing Alpha Hydroxy Acids help exfoliation, or shedding of the surface skin. The extent depends on type and potency, pH level, and other ingredients

M AD E TO M EASU R E ( YOU R P RO D UC T)

Eye cream Size of…

A grain of rice

Face Serum Size of…

A pea

Face moisturiser Size of…

An almond

Facial cleanser Size of…

A blackberry

Shampoo Size of…

A cherry

December 2018 BA LA N CE

and using too much product can overload it, causing irritation, redness and puffiness – the very things they’re meant to tackle.

Stick to a blob no bigger than the size of a grain of rice for each eye to be on the safe side, and it will yield better results.

SIZE MATTERS Face masks, meanwhile, don’t need to be applied like icing – only a thin layer is required for them to effectively draw out impurities, and you don’t need to apply moisturiser like you’re preparing for a cross Channel swim, either. If you’re a compulsive over-user, try exercising portion control by ditching creams in pots and opt for pump dispensers, which are designed to deliver just the right amount of product. In general, an almond-sized blob of moisturiser is ample.

Even over-showering might be ruining your looks, with hot water disrupting the skin’s protective lip barrier and sucking out moisture, so avoid spending too much time under the nozzle. And once you’re out, for fragrance, I recommend no more than two sprays or a couple of slicks of fragrance oil.

My beauty message for the festive season is similar to a dietician’s: don’t overdo it, make moderation your mantra and remember: sometimes less really is more. B

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BALANCE PROMOTION

TRULY NUT-RITIOUS A handful of California walnuts every day will provide you with a rich source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids

CALIFORNIA WALNUTS SNACKING TIPS

DIY TRAIL MIX Make your own healthy mix. Chop up and combine California walnuts, dried cherries and dark chocolate

GET TOASTIE

A taste of

winter sunshine

Make over your snack time munchies with the help of naturally nutritious California walnuts

W

e’ve all been there – that 3pm stomach rumble which sees us reaching for chocolate biccies when we think no one’s looking. But if we’re trying to maintain a healthy way of life, biscuits are (sadly) not the answer.

And that’s where delicious California walnuts come in – offering a taste of winter sunshine to add a boost to your snacks.

Thanks to the growing conditions in the West Coast’s Golden State, California walnuts have a uniquely light and creamy flavour, making them a deliciously wholesome alternative in the world of snacking. A handful of California walnuts every day is the perfect answer to your snacking dilemmas. What’s

more, walnuts are the only tree nut that are a rich source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids which is excellent for heart health and general wellbeing, plus they contain protein, fibre and antioxidants - so you really do want to get them into your diet! Walnuts also aid satiety, meaning a handful will keep you feeling full and satisfied until your next meal.

You can find California walnuts in most major supermarkets and health food shops.

Just look out for “produce of the USA” to make sure you’re getting the real Cali deal.

And remember, fresh walnuts should smell mildly nutty and taste subtly sweet. The best way to keep them fresh for longer is to store them in an airtight container in your fridge or freezer.

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Lightly cover California walnuts with maple syrup and soy sauce, pop on a baking tray and toast in the oven for 15 minutes

ON THE GO Carry a snacking tin in your bag. That way, you’ll always have a healthy snack of California walnuts within easy reach

For more snacking ideas, recipe inspiration and health tips, visit californiawalnuts.uk @Walnuts.uk @Walnuts_uk @Walnuts_uk

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Rebel yell

C H R I ST M AS C RAC K E R S

b

Time isn’t of the essence if you follow our festive tips to make the most out of party season

F

ew of us have the luxury of popping home after work to prep for a big night out, especially now the social calendar is in overdrive. Cue jostling for every inch of mirror space in the ladies’, or making up your face ‘al desko’ in front of your colleagues. The good news? We have a few tips for a speedier transformation.

Make-up artist Lee Pycroft, who has painted some serious talent (including Anne Hathaway and Sienna Miller) knows a thing or two about A-list glamour. “Glitter, gold accents and velvet lips are the biggest trends this season. Highlight the lid or lash line with a gold or glitter eyeliner, and add ¾-length false lashes for an extra flick.

These are easy to apply using tweezers and a magnifying mirror. Tilt your head back and drop them on for a quick, dramatic look.

“Velvet textures, like Lisa Eldridge Plush True Velvet lipstick, look alluring and chic without being glossy or obvious, and bluered tones are really flattering. I also use Marc Jacobs Highliner Gel Eye Crayons, as they stay put all night – and beyond.”

Joyful & triumphant

❶

❷

JESSICA PUNTER

Beauty journalist and stylist Jessica is also a brand consultant with more than 15 years’ experience.

In addition to styling many celebrities, she’s also interviewed some of the world’s most famous faces

Prime

suspect

❸

❹ ❺

YOU’D BETTER NOT CRY...

But what if you’ve had a bit too much fun and slept in your make-up? No biggie, but it isn’t going to do your skin any favours – especially with the season’s cocktail of late nights, liquid suppers, rich canapés and deadlines. Thankfully, Lee has a solution.

“Skin absorbs more product at night, which is why we wear night creams. If you’re wearing an oil-based foundation to bed, double cleanse in the morning with a Clarisonic or Foreo device to exfoliate and buff the skin. Apply a sheet mask if you have time, as low hydration results in lacklustre skin and grainy pores.”

Back on the tiles the following night?

“Moisturise well and layer up with sheer foundations and light textures, like cream blush and eyeshadow. And choose a nourishing mascara, like Perricone MD’s

1. Le Lion de Chanel Face Highlighting Powder, £50 for 8g chanel.com 2. Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Glam Glitter Gel Eye Crayon All That Glitters 29, £20 for 0.5g netaporter.com 3. Instant Eclat Instant Glow Primer, £60 for 30ml sisley-paris.com 4. Golden Mirage Biodegradable Glitter, £6 inyour-dreams.com 5. Palette Factory Eyeshadow, from £45 for 5g byterrypalettefactory. com

2-in-1 No Makeup Mascara which is kinder to lashes.” Back it up with Sisley’s Instant Glow Primer for a luminous make-up base. High on the shine wish list is Chanel’s Le Lion de Chanel Highlighting Powder that enhances brow and cheekbones with a golden glow. Or if there’s time, By Terry’s Palette Factory at Selfridges – a custom eye shadow experience – will leave you like a kid in a candy store.

And if you still need festive inspiration, visit make-up royalty Pat McGrath’s Instagram page (@patmcgrathreal) for a sparkly look that won’t last into New Year. B

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Mas

clas s

ter

How to FIND festive ZEN

by Owen O'Kane

A BIT ABOUT ME Before I chose to retrain as a psychotherapist, I was a nurse in palliative care and spent nine years working with terminally ill people.

You gain valuable insight and words of wisdom from people when they’re dying. They can teach you a lot about what makes a good life and how to manage your time.

TIPS FOR AN EMOTIONAL EMERGENCY

A PERFECT 10

THOUGHT PROCESS We think we’re stuck with the thoughts in our head, but we are not the contents of our thoughts.

Eighty per cent of our thinking is negative by nature, and that can have a detrimental impact upon our lives. I give people specific skills to help quieten things down, like tapping techniques (a simple and slow alternate rhythmic tapping on the thighs or upper arms ) and visualisation – practical interventions that help deactivate stress activity in the brain.

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TAKE A MOMENT Find a private space - it can even be a visit to the loo. Use this period to stop and check in: what’s going on? That will only take 20 seconds

BREATHE It’s as simple as that.

Three consecutive deep breaths – in for four, out for four – for 30 seconds

SELF-CARE Self-compassion is one of the most important aspects of mental wellbeing. When people treat themselves with kindness, their world changes for the better.

Essentially, self-compassion is a soothing measure that eases psychological distress. If you wouldn’t treat someone else with harsh, critical judgement then don’t treat yourself that way. The results are life changing.

Ten to Zen by Owen O’Kane is out on 27 December (Bluebird, £10.99).

Follow Owen on Twitter @Owenokaneten

TALKING CURE Communication when you’re struggling and in need of some support is one of the most important things. A lot of the time, the people who are reluctant to voice their feelings are the ones who need to do just that the most. B

RECHARGE Sit still in the present moment, taking just 20 seconds to recharge yourself

The outcome

We’re not here for a long time, we’re all just passing through. These steps (and my book) will allow you to think more clearly and help you make decisions about the principles and values, which will make an enormous difference to how you manage your life

BA LA N CE December 2018

WORDS: JAMES GILL. PHOTOGRAPHY: NICKY JOHNSTONE

When I was working with people who were mentally distressed, one thing that kept coming up again and again was the constraint of time. I’d ask my patients if they’d tried using any mindfulness techniques and they’d often come back saying they didn’t have an hour each day and couldn’t fit it into their everyday lives. This got me thinking about how I could create a programme that most people could use, whether you’re a teenager, a parent at home or the MD of a company. I wanted dedicated techniques where people could use just 10 minutes a day to help quieten their mind, allow them to think more rationally and openly adopt principles of living that would make their lives much more manageable. That’s when I came up with the idea for Ten to Zen.