L I V E
W E L L
Organic l
specia
PERFEC TING THE LOST ART OF CONV ER SATION SHOU L D YOU CHANGE YOUR CAREER? L E SSONS IN LOVE: MAYBE IT IS YOU?
GI VE PEAS A C HANCE
Will.i.am
SEPTEMBER 2018 ISSUE 28 BALANCE.MEDIA
CONTENTS
Welcome
REG U LA R S
Organic September is back with a bang. Fuelled by a greater understanding of the impact of toxicity modern life exposes us all to, the world of organics has undergone a major renaissance in recent years. And, thanks to the flurry of green, eco-conscious influencers, chemicalfree living is now more accessible and sexier than ever. In this issue of BALANCE, you’ll discover everything from how to maximise your window box (if that’s the only outdoor space London affords you), to shopping for your organic skincare essentials you can take anywhere. But beyond irregular veggies and clean skin, we’re also here to champion what organic really stands for – keeping things real. In our exhilarating, but often crazy-making metropolis, let’s foster a conscious effort to return to what (once) seemed natural: getting outdoors, moving our bodies daily and engaging in the sadly decaying art of face-to-face conversation. Regardless of the contents of your shopping bag, you are, after all, 100% human. What could be more organic than that? Sophie Scott Editor editor@balance.media
WORK/L IFE 14 BLACK EYED PEAS STAR WILL.I.AM GOES BACK TO HIS ROOTS
ORGA N IC SP EC IA L 25 15-PAGES OF TIPS & HINTS TO LIVE AN ORGANIC LIFE
PSYC HOLOGY 48 DECODING THE CLICHÉD BREAK-UP
BODY/SOU L 52 JONNY WILKINSON TACKLES HIS DEMONS
FOO D 59 HOW TO DEFEAT THE TYRANNY OF CHOICE
TRAV EL balance.media
@balanceLDN
@balanceldn
60 NORTH ICELAND’S UNTAMED BEAUTY
ARTS / C U LTU RE
THE BALANCE EQUATION COVER PHOTOGRAPHY: IAN HARRISON. EDITOR’S PHOTOGRAPHY: IAKOVOS KALAITZAKIS
4 GOOD NEWS 70 HOW TO APPRECIATE ART
63 STERLING K BROWN’S LONG WAY TO THE TOP
BEAU TY / GRO OM IN G BE PRESENT
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, Hussain Chowdhury
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 Thanks to Libby Williams, Josh Barnett Digital Director Callum McGeoch
Executive Editor Morgan Rees
September 2018 BA LA N CE
67 BEAUTY WHICH GIVES BACK 69 COFFEE COMES TO THE RESCUE
BA LA N 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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September
GOOD NEWS
TWEET Huge shout out to @BalanceLDN for writing an article all about Social Anxiety something that is often overlooked... @runningshoulders
INSTAGRAM Really love your Instagram...I’m old school and love a magazine! Look forward to reading it with a cup of tea @Vicky.mcclure
Droning on is a good thing for the oceans, as coral is making a welcome comeback
Nature
Careers
FOREST BUMP
Medicine
CANING CANCER A team spearheaded by the National University of Singapore (NUS) has successfully harnessed AI to treat advanced cancer. The platform, dubbed ‘CURATE. AI’, constantly calculates the exact dosage of each drug type, and Professor Dean Ho, of the Singapore Institute for Neurotechnology says, “Our study has shown dosing can affect the safety of treatment.”
Staff wellbeing WORKING (OUT) 9 TO 5 Open-plan offices might be an impossible place to conduct a private phone conversation, but they are good for combating stress. Those who work in open-bench seating reported lower levels of stress both at home and in the workplace. They get a sizeable 32% more physical activity at work compared to those in private offices, and enjoy a 20% increase over cubicle dwellers, too. The study, from the US General Services Administration, hopes it can inspire workers to be more active. “If we can figure out how to design offices to allow people to be more active, that will result in better health and lower stress. Educating people is important,” says a director.
Campaign PAD ALL OVER
Credit where it’s due to Always sanitary towels and its #EndPeriodPoverty initiative. Since launching the campaign in March, Always has donated more than 5 million pads to UK school girls, and will continue to donate one for each purchase made. Hurry – the campaign ends 16 September.
BA LA N CE September 2018
Environment SEA IT, BELIEVE IT New areas of coral are growing at the Great Barrier Reef – and the discovery is thanks to a remarkable 28-year-old Norwegian entrepreneur. Christine Spiten is co-founder of Blueye Robotics, who develop underwater drones. Spiten’s tech discovered new coral is growing in a region ravaged by warming sea temperatures, and now several non-profit organisations are looking to use the drones for clean-ups. Christine tells BALANCE: “To see our innovation get into the hands of people who then discover coral re-growing is absolutely amazing! We work closely with the Great Barrier Reef Legacy, and they are able to do things that weren’t possible without our drones thanks to the twohour battery life.”
WORDS: JAMES GILL IMAGES: SHUTTERSTOCK
HUG IT OUT If you are a good cuddler, Team Tactics, a British corporate entertaining service, want to hire you. What’s more, they will pay around £30 an hour. The Cuddle a Co-Worker programme (we are not making this up) is being rolled out soon, and would-be applicants can find out more at teamtactics. co.uk.
OK, the good news. According to a report, there are now more trees than there were 35 years ago, after a University of Maryland paper found the world’s tree cover had increased by 2.24 million km2 (the size of Texas and Alaska combined). However, there’s a catch. Part of the rise in greenery is down to global warming, as they are now growing closer to the two poles. But let’s focus on the positives for now: more trees.
WORDS: XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX6.5PT/8PT APERCU
N AV I G AT I O N S L U G
October 2017 BA LA N CE
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WORDS: XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX6.5PT/8PT APERCU
N AV I G AT I O N S L U G
October 2017 BA LA N CE
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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
According to Andrea Owen’s book, “Getting crystal clear on what exactly you’re afraid of will get you closer to healing it. You can’t fix what you don’t know is tripping you up”
SIX STEPS TO DETOXIFY YOUR LIFE
Be Kind
OIL BE BACK ANTIPODESDIVINE FACE OIL
GET AWAY BOY IN THE BUBBLE
After a summer of baking sunshine ravaging your looks, Antipodes’ nutrientrich oil repairs and destresses skin in preparation for the cold bite of winter. kinetic4health.co.uk
There is a smart way to combat the dip in mercury: attend The Boy In The Bubble’s latest retreat in Mallorca. Aimed at men, this nine-day course is intense, but the journey will be more profound than boarding a flight. 21-31 October, boyinthebubble.co.uk
COMPILED BY: JAMES GILL, ILLUSTRATION: ALICE BOWSHER
by BERNADETTE RUSSELL MOOD BOOSTER HOW TO STOP FEELING LIKE SH*T Andrea Owen’s book is now in paperback, and boasts 14 habits to help keep the sunshine in your life. It’s unflinching and will have you asking yourself some stern questions on topics such as self-sabotage and isolation. hodder.co.uk
ON YOUR MARKS NIKE CITY READY
GIVE IT SOME LIP EVOLUTION OF SMOOTH You know the weather’s changed when your lips start peeling like a ripe satsuma. The much-loved EOS balm range boast sunny-sounding names to help you pretend the impending chill of winter isn’t marching inexorably towards us… evolutionofsmooth.com
AND LEARN
GREAT INDOORS LIE DOWN & LISTEN
When it rains, it’s tempting to retreat to the sofa until May. Or you could reach for Nike’s City Ready collection, which is sportswear for women, designed by women. Forget the train home - you’ll feel like sprinting. nike.com
Just because more activities will be indoors, doesn’t mean we can’t have fun… is what our dad would say on holiday when it rained. This multi-sensory journey of meditation, movement and virtual reality is proof he might have been on to something. 21 September, eventbrite.co.uk
September 2018 BA LA N CE
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ears of going back to school in September means it feels right to start learning something new about now. We all have a skill or subject we never got round to studying, so perhaps now it’s time to allow yourself to pursue it? I stopped drawing when I left school because I decided if I wasn’t good enough to be a professional artist, there was no point. But when I spent time with artist Stephen Wright, who created the beautiful House of Dreams in East Dulwich, listening to him talk about how art is for everyone and that “you just have to give yourself permission”, I was soon drawing again. I stopped worrying and allowed myself to enjoy it, eventually starting an illustration course and drawing pictures for people as gifts. It’s fun to use new skills to be kind and generous towards others, so check out free or affordable classes in London you’ll find learning something might change your life in ways you can’t imagine! The Little Book of Kindness by Bernadette Russell (£7.99, Orion Spring) is out now
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the manual
words by LIBBY WILLIAM S & CO RINN E MIL LS photography by JO NATH AN KNOWLE S
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BA LA N CE September 2018
NEIN TO FIVE
The
QUIZ
should i change my job? Finding the perfect role can feel impossible, but knowing when to take stock could help. Take our quiz to see if it’s time to polish your CV
ta k e
st
the te
ROLE WITH IT 1. How often do you think about looking for a new job? Never, I love my job Only when I’ve had a bad week Once or twice a month Every other day All day, every day
A B C D E
2. Are you progressing in your current job? Yes, I’m looking forward to my next promotion I’m often given more responsibility No one has ever been promoted here I feel like I’ve reached my full potential
A B C D
There’s not much room to move up the ladder
E
D E
3. Do you feel valued in your role? Yes, each employee is valued for what they bring Most of the time, but it could be better Yes, but I’m not sure I value my role I feel under-appreciated My boss doesn’t even know I exist
5. Is your job negatively affecting relationships and sense of wellness? No, I have a good worklife balance I very rarely feel overrun and tied to work I often don’t have time for myself in the week I’ve missed out on a lot due to work commitments I find it hard to sleep, always work late, and miss my friends and family
A B C D E
4. You would describe your mood at work as… Happy as Larry Predominantly positive I have good and bad days
Mostly, I’m just bored Extremely unhappy
A B C D E
A B C
Tally up each letter you’ve chosen and see what it means over the page… Flip for your results!
September 2018 BA LA N CE
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NEIN TO FIVE
th e ma nual
RESULTS
y tl s o M
y tl s o M
y tl s o M
s
s
s
SITTING PRETTY
TAKE SOME TIME
CAREER 180º
Way to go, you’re one of the lucky ones! You’re content where you are and more than happy to stay put. You’re clearly a valued member of your team and work within a company or structure that supports your professional growth and career progression.
You seem to enjoy your current job, but are perhaps starting to feel a little restless. Take some time to think about your role and any adjustments that could be made. Once you’ve considered what you want, sit down with your employer to talk about moving forward and making these changes. This might be exactly what you need to optimise your happiness, as well as your productivity.
First thing’s first: don’t panic! Long gone are the days where an occupation was for life, and it’s no longer a rarity to completely change career paths years after starting your working life. The key to finding your feet again is asking where your skills, passions and interests lie. Focus on this area, undertake any retraining you might need and you’ll be on your way towards a fresh, fulfilling career.
Try
Corinne Mills, Managing Director, Personal Career Management (personalcareer management.com) “It’s great you enjoy your job, but be careful about becoming complacent as things can change very quickly. Keep looking for opportunities to develop your skills and experience and expand your networks. This will keep you in good shape, career-wise, whatever the future may hold…”
y tl s o M
s
Try
Try
“Think about what you like about your current job and what you would like to be different. Talk to your boss, as they may agree to the changes you are after. If not, brush up your CV and start looking at job adverts: you may find a role that suits you even better.”
THE COMPANY YOU KEEP
Something is getting you down – that’s more than apparent. Whether it’s an unreasonable boss, dull workplace culture, or a lack of opportunity it’s time to explore your options and change companies. The most important thing to consider in this situation is the kind of culture you want to be a part of. Company size, perks, work style, salary and personal values are just a few things to think about.
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y tl s o M
“It’s probably time to make a change, as things are unlikely to get better by themselves. Before you make any move, be sure you have a realistic plan, as there is a danger you might drift into a new job and end up in a similar situation to the one you’ve just left.”
Try
“You’re is not in a healthy workplace environment. If you raise your concerns with your manager or HR department, but feel this is going to fall on deaf ears, then the sooner you get yourself out of this toxic situation, the better. Life is too short to be miserable at work. Start hatching your smart exit strategy now!”
BA LA N CE September 2018
s EXPLORE EVERY AVENUE If you love your job but feel that something is missing, going part-time to try out a new things might be just the thing you need to regroup. Combining your skills and passions on your days off will allow you to dip your toes into multiple areas of work. This can be as simple as turning a part-time hobby into a small business, or taking up some freelance work.
Try
“Consider any internal moves you could make that might reinvigorate your interest by checking your current company’s job vacancies. Also, look at your wider career options, as there will be lots of potential routes. It’s important to do as much research as possible as some options will be more easily achievable than others.”
% Of Londoners who want to change their jobs. Across the UK, the average person will change careers 10-15 times in their working life, within five different sectors*
*SOURCES: LONDON SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND FINANCE, CAREERS IN DEPTH
The
the m an ua l
hotwire
Back To Nature
Organic performance isn’t just for the body. It’s time you start to embrace a fitness evolution LAW N FREE P ICKED FIRS T
JUNGLE GYM Yes, even gyms are going organic. Biofit adopts biophilic design (the tendency to seek connections with nature and other
forms of life), in order to give workouts a more ‘natural’ feel. Biofit don’t just turn gyms into a jungle-like sanctuaries of sweat, but also stage London pop-ups. biofit.io
This is the only ‘press’ you need in your routine if you want to inject a little nature into your workout prowess. Cawston press.com
Sometimes, you only need a bit of green space to work out in – and the latest in tech. BALANCE was invited to Google HQ to view the Google Fit 2 app and wearable tech, which make gardenbased workouts a dream, as it tracks sit-ups, press-ups and all manner of things you can do in your back yard. google.com/fit
N AT U R A L S E L E C T I O N
A natural high
Most of us look at, say, a tree and think, “That looks nice.” Not Ben Medder. Rather, the nature-obsessed PT sees only obstacles and opportunities. Medder – an Evolve, Move, Play coach – is all about “natural movement”, meaning he embraces Mother Nature as a training partner, rather than something to fear. benmedder.com
Up with the birds
Running with a podcast is practically a given, but sometimes you just want the sound of the countryside as your soundtrack. Tap the left housing of these wireless Audio-Technica sports headphones, and you’re treated to instant ambience. What’s more, they’re weather-resistant; take the muddiest of runs, and pop them under a tap post-workout. £119, audiotechnicashop.com
Tech a run MOVMT’s vegan Cabo sneakers don’t just talk a good game - they walk (and run) one, too. Almost slipper-like in comfort, they have a cushioned footbed and an upper of vegetable fibre. thepeoples movement.com
words by JA M E S G IL L photography by IA N HAR RIS ON
M
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B O O M B O O M P OW-WOW
any hap-pea returns Feeling down? In need of a pick-me-up? Spend some time in the life-affirming company of Will.i.am - back with a bang with the Black Eyed Peas
Y
ou’ve probably had this conversation with your friends: “They seem nice, but what are they really like?”The BALANCE team is the same. Forget the spin, PR or public persona: what is a person like deep down? We spent the day with Will.i.am recently and the first thing the global superstar did upon entering the London hotel suite was personally introduce himself to every person in the room, chatting with them, asking how they were and shaking their hand. And he did the exact same thing when our time together came to an end. This was not an ordeal; to Will.i.am it came as effortlessly and naturally as posing for the camera. We don’t know about you, but sometimes we struggle to do that with a gathering of friends, let alone a room of strangers. The multifaceted superstar put everyone at ease from the off and his charming nature was alluring. What’s apparent is the positive role played by his mother, Debra Adams. Hailing from a poor neighbourhood in Los Angeles, Debra would put her son on a bus to travel two hours to a better school in Brentwood. Discussing her impact, the Black Eyed Peas frontman is honest and forthright: “There’s no word or sentence, it’s just the way she raised us was with mindfulness. We grew up poor. I don’t know how, but she got me all the GI Joe and Transformer toys when I was growing up, but when it came to the rest of the kids in the neighbourhood, she would say,
‘Don’t you go bragging about it!’ Little things like ‘don’t brag’, ‘stay humble’, ‘stay mindful’ and ‘think about the things you’re going to say before you say them’.”
THE ARTISTRY OF LIFE He adds: “In entertainment it’s, ‘I’m so this, I’m so that.’ And in the past we’ve made music like that, too. There’s nothing wrong with pick-me-up [music]. Songs like Imma Be are like a pick-me-up. And then we have songs on this project like Get It.” Will.i.am then performs a whole section of the track that drives home the paradox of life itself. Life is just crazy. Life is terrific, it’s also horrific. It’s a magnificent painting… He adds: “If it’s a gift, well thank you so much, I’ll take that. If it’s a bitch, well, I’m gonna make the best out of this. “A lot of the reasons why I believe it’s hard for people to change their reality is because optimism is looked at as insanity, especially when you are dealing with all these hellish obstacles. Optimism is your only tool to change your reality, and you can dream your way out of that. You may not change it immediately but one dream at a time turns into an amazing movie; it’s like frames to a film. If you just saw one frame of
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TRYING TIMES That isn’t to say that the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune don’t rain down on Will.i.am. He confides that he’s had a rough time of things with his tech firm, I.am+. “I have my hard moments, like everyone, you know,” he reasons. “Last month was tough and when you’re going through those tough moments you get into your selfish bubble so it’s hard for you to step out of that cloud.” He adds: “It was something I’d never been through before. I got out of it and now I have a badge of ‘I know that obstacle’.” Will.i.am compared his recent travails to the mid-nineties, when he wondered if Black Eyed Peas would ever catch a break. “Those worries I had in 1996, we rendered as just panic and pessimistic. Now I’m super-optimistic, like I can do anything – I can start my own tech company, and that’s hard! “You have, like, 288 employees, something like that, and payroll is hardcore. It was one of those moments of restlessness, tossing and turning in my sleep, and still motivating the team that we are going to get there, that’s [the same] for every start-up. So, it was a tough last month. But like with every tough month you just snap out of it, focus and then the answer is there.
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BACK TO BLACK Before they became the all-conquering Black Eyed Peas, Will.i.am’s group went by the name A.T.B.A.N. Klann
The Black Eyed Peas tour the UK in October and November. Tickets are available at livenation.co.uk
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ART DIRECTION: RICHARD SPENCER, STYLING: VIVIAN NWONKA
a film you’d think it’s really nothing. Add them all up and that’s an amazing story.” He adds: “It’s the perspective of, if you’re thirsty, to worry about if the glass is half-full, or empty – I’m just, like, thank you for the glass! If we can all have the perspective of being gracious, grateful, mindful, the world would be a little bit easier for folks that have it a bit harder. There’s always somebody that’s having it harder and no matter how hard your situation, it all depends on toleration.”
“If I didn’t care, I would sleep like a baby. Because I care so much, any bump and I’m just concerned for everyone else in the plane. Sometimes I wish I didn’t care, but I’m happy I care. That’s life.” Far be it from BALANCE to offer Will.i.am advice, but we venture that it took Thomas Edison 100 attempts to get the light bulb right and, honest to goodness, we share a moment. His eyes widen: “I always felt that way!” And Will.i.am gets out his phone and shows us the cover for I Gotta Feeling. On the cover? A man with a lightbulb for a head. Edison, it seems, is a figure close to his heart. “Every group has their biggest song and that was ours,” he says. “This is our lightbulb – and that’s the single cover. The idea is that lightbulb over your head. I did it on my laptop - I took a picture of downtown LA from my balcony where I recorded it and I got this dude with a suit on and I took a lightbulb and that’s I Gotta Feeling.” Ah, yes. The multi-million-selling, six-time Grammy winning Black Eyed Peas. “There’s no regrets, I wouldn’t change anything, even songs like Don’t Lie. I don’t like that song, but I wouldn’t change it. What about putting Fergie in the group? Nope, wouldn’t change it, it’s perfect. What about taking a break for seven years? Yeah, I wouldn’t have done that. I wouldn’t have waited seven years. That’s a piece of me that’s like, collectively, we didn’t honour the gift. That’s a gift, to be able to sell out stadiums, that’s a gift from everyone that showed up to the shows, society as a whole selecting your music to be the soundtrack to their lives, it’s a gift. Seven years? That’s not appreciation.” If you’re lucky enough to snap up a ticket, you’ll see the original Peas line-up of Will.i.am, apl.de.ap, and Taboo. And that means no Fergie. Will.i.am explains: “With a lot of the songs we figured out a way to reconstruct them so that it still has the energy. “The last thing we want is for people to expect the songs to be the way they remember them and feel cheated. So, we designed a way to ensure you’re not missing out on anything. What I don’t want to have is someone mimicking – that’s blasphemy. But to have a complementary energy or a relative key, or vibration is what we’ve accomplished for this new show.” It’s not just on-stage where Will.i.am’s positive influence is felt. He personally pays around $1.5 million a year to give opportunities to disadvantaged youths via his i.am.angel foundation. “I don’t brag about what I have, but if our culture was to use what we have to help, ghettos wouldn’t be ghettos. But we want to wear our wealth on our neck, our teeth, everywhere. And don’t get me wrong, you could Google that I [once] had a diamond ear!” I ask who else has stepped up, and it’s apparent there aren’t many that spring to mind: he names basketball stars Kevin Durant and LeBron James, and “all the French [football] players of African descent”. “This is the beginning of a different type of social assistance, a community guardian league. When governments protect corporations and companies more than people, who do the people have?” B
B O O M B O O M P OW-WOW
WORRY ABOUT IF THE GLASS IS HALF-FULL OR HALF EMPTY? I’M, LIKE, ’THANK YOU FOR THE GLASS!’
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N AV I G AT I O N S L U G
The
lost art of conversation
words by REBECCA GILLAM photography by EMMA IN N O C E N T I
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The time has come to raise our voices beyond modern communication methods
NSAV P EI E GC AT HI O TH NE R S LAUPG Y
W
hen was the last time you had a proper conversation? One not over WhatsApp or Bumble, or a brief catch-up about the weather with the barista in Pret? But a twoway exchange about something meaningful? Although studies on whether the quantity of face-to-face conversation in today’s society is in decline are inconclusive, the quality of interaction has unanimously taken a hit. It’s clear our habit of communicating via social media, emails and dating apps is promoting a lack of empathy and increasing mental health issues. A survey by The Prince’s Trust found 22% of 16-25 year olds in the UK didn’t feel they had anyone to talk to about their problems when they were growing up. While we’re all too ready to fire off our views at people, when it comes to genuinely listening and empathising, there’s pretty much zilch. There are myriad things to blame for the conversational collapse, and the crux of it all is we’re too time-poor. London is an agitation of plans and people, making the idea of a good old-fashioned chat seem like a relic from a previous era. “Modern life is pulling us away from making deep human connections,” says Rob Kendall, author of Blamestorming and founder of conversationexpert.com. “We’re a nation of diary-fillers and hat-wearers, dealing with and condensing the daily mass of information, which pulls us towards speed and expediency rather than depth.” While we’re undoubtedly more connected it is, counter-intuitively, making us more isolated. Baby boomers (and some millennials) remember life without 24/7 tech, yet Generation Z haven’t needed to master the art of conversation, or being comfortable with their brains unstimulated. Emojis are undoubtedly a simpler way to communicate quick emotion, but at what cost? Superficial updates widen the gulf between personal feelings and what’s being said, losing the subtle nuances of body language, sentiment and experience. Dik Veenman, founder of The Right Conversation, agrees. “Rather than engage with the messy reality of
talking, we’ve stopped listening. We interact with sanitised sound bites and not the reality.” The tech industry has to shoulder some blame. According to Tanya Goodin, author of Stop Staring At Screens and a digital detox evangelist, “Screens and remote digital contact, rather than real relationships, are the default focus of our attention. We retreat into devices to avoid awkward situations; they distract us when we’re bored; entertain us when we’re lost for words. They’re less complicated than people, but ultimately less rewarding.” Instead of impromptu chats with the people we encounter at the bus stop or while queueing at the bar, we’re turning to the world of online apps and highly-edited messages to help forge new bonds. Even on holidays, people are too busy on Instagram to experience their surroundings and company.
A LITTLE LESS CONVERSATION “Face-to-face interaction used to be the only option, so our brains are designed around having those kind of conversations,” continues Kendall. “The brain is incredibly sensitive to changes in facial expressions and body language so, as we move towards phone, email and online communication, a lot of it is lost.” The decrease in communication skills is well-documented. A recent UCLA study suggested children’s social abilities decline as they prioritise virtual contact over face-to-face interaction. After just five days without looking at a digital screen, these same 11-12-year-olds were substantially better at reading human emotions than those who spent hours a day glued to their devices. Further research, conducted by the Massachusetts Institute Of Technology (MIT), found conversation between adults and children between the ages of four and six changes the way the brain forms and is critical to language development. As well as struggles to make genuine human connections, there’s strong evidence diminished social contact leads to a negative impact on mental health. A 2015 University Of Michigan study found people above 50 years of age who meet friends and family three times a week are half as likely to suffer from depression than those who enjoy virtual contact.
SEEN AND HEARD The difference between the physiological response to texting and talking is vast. ‘When someone replies to a text message, email or
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NPAV S E EI C GH ATTI O HE NR S ALPUYG
DM, a tiny burst of dopamine (the ‘feel good’ chemical) explodes in our brain”, Goodin explains. “Real-life conversation finds it difficult to match the immediate sensation of these little fireworks. But a deep connection with a soul mate, family member or close friend creates another chemical – oxytocin – the love and bonding chemical, which lasts longer and has more benefits. We have to be patient to build these connections, which is hard in our instant ‘gratification’ world.” Whether we’re at home or work, with friends or family, it’s likely our experience of truly being heard, or the time and space we feel we have to listen, is minimal. “It’s a strong factor in people’s happiness and mental health, but it’s being lost’, Kendall admits. ‘We get caught up in life and squeeze out the spaces, but it’s there that meaningful conversations happen.” The main thing is to create opportunities for conversation, suggests Veenman. “Multitasking is impossible. Accept that it takes time to talk, so actively clear small amounts to speak with friends and colleagues. Be curious about what others really think and feel; ask them, then listen. Question more, answer less.
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Remember that one of the most important gifts you can give someone is your attention, so practice giving it.” Often it comes down to making different habits. If your diary doesn’t allow gaps for genuine socialising, make regular plans, like hosting dinners or book clubs, that enable undistracted conversation. “In a relationship, it’s about dedicating time to being together and talking,” says Kendall. “Extend the same principle to the workplace, so instead of just talking about actions, ask questions about how people are feeling.” Another simple shift is to make sure PHONING I T IN devices are absent. A 2015 study from the Pew Research Center saw 82% Sixty-one percent of Brits wish they of adults felt the way they used could disconnect their phone in social scenarios from their smartphone was detrimental to conversation. ‘sometimes’, while Another from Virginia Tech found 26% think about their very presence had a negative it daily* impact on the level of connection. Goodin has a fix, though. “Put your devices away when 1-2-1 with anyone and give them undivided attention. We’ve forgotten how to talk to each other thanks to smartphones. The good news is those skills return quickly… as soon as you put down your screens.” Though buzzy London life with its constant communication has its upsides, “it’s a question of choosing the right channel for the right conversation,” concludes Kendall. “For board minutes or making a plan, text or email is great; for anything meaningful, it’s poor. Happiness is heavily linked to quality, rather than quantity, of relationships — and quality is related to having conversations.” With mental health awareness across gender and ages on the rise, the need to fix the face-to-face issue grows. It’s simpler to stick to mindless chit-chat, so we need someone willing to go out of their way to ask questions and give others permission to say how they feel. As the ad used to say: it’s good to talk. B
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PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES *SOURCE: CANVAS8
RATHER THAN ENGAGE WITH THE MESSY REALITY OF TALKING, WE’VE JUST STOPPED LISTENING
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Organic
special
Responsibly sourced and sustainably produced products are very much en vogue, so let BALANCE open your eyes to a whole new world which isn’t as scary as you think
MARKET FORCES The organic sector has seen an increase of six per cent since 2017, and is now worth a reported £2.2bn. Shoppers aged 35 and under spent upwards of £3.1m on organic produce alone.*
CO MING U P 27 THE BEST SWAPS TO HELP YOU GO ORGANIC 28 TURN THE SMALLEST SPACE INTO A BOUNTIFUL GARDEN 31 BUYING ORGANIC ON A BUDGET 34 LILY SIMPSON FROM THE DETOX KITCHEN’S RECIPES
*SOURCE: SOIL ASSOCIATION
40 LEARN THE TRICKS OF ORGANIC BUSINESS 43 YOUR CHANCE TO GET INVOLVED 45 GROOMING GOODIES YOU’LL WANT TO TAKE EVERYWHERE
illustration by VICKI T URN ER
46 THE GOOD LIFE FACTS & FIGURES
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ALL CHANGE, PLEASE
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Why go organic? Thinking about making the big switch? It doesn’t have to be all at once. Just take it one natural step at a time...
words by A MEL IA RICH ARD S illustration by V ICKI T UR NER O
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WHAT’S THE ALTERNATIVE?
The Dirty Dozen Twelve fruits and vegetables that absorb the most pesticides during the farming process: strawberries, spinach, nectarines, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, tomatoes, celery, potatoes and peppers all fall into this category. If any of these make up a significant part of your day-to-day diet, you should definitely consider swapping to an organic alternative.
Chocolate The cacao plant is notorious for being very heavily sprayed with pesticides. Coupled with the fact non-organic varieties have long been associated with child labour, sub-par working conditions and unfair pay, chocolate is one of the most important items to switch. There are so many delicious alternatives, too. We currently love Ombar’s new Pistachio Centres number.
Peanut Butter Non-organic nuts are often grown using chemical fertilisers and insecticides to increase yield and produce a bigger crop. This is particularly true for peanuts, thanks to the global demand for peanut butter. You’re better off buying an organic variety which hasn’t been treated with potentially harmful chemicals and retain more of the nutrition nature intended.
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here are many misconceptions about what organic really is, so we thought ‘Organic September’ would be a great time to bust open some of those myths, and share tips about what to choose and prioritise when switching to a more organic way of life. The word ‘organic’ is used in marketing speak to try to sell almost anything. When it comes to organic farming and food however, there is a very specific definition: ‘Organic production systems are designed to produce optimum quantities of food of high nutritional quality, by using management practices which aim to avoid the use of agrochemicals and which minimise damage to the environment and wildlife.’ For food to be considered organic, it must be grown and produced to a particular standard, and it has to be certified by one of the recognised EU certifying bodies, such as the Soil Association. This goes for plants – which get their nutrients directly from the soil – as well as for animals, who obtain theirs from the plants that have already absorbed whatever good or bad is in the soil. There are, however, some foods which should be prioritised if you decide to add more of these options to your diet. Take it slowly and never feel that you need to be extreme in your quest for a more organic way of life; just make some smart swaps that you can afford. Why not try making one change a week for a month, and you’ll see it’s not so hard. Even these small steps will pay dividends to your health, and that of the planet. B
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
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The organic issue
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Micro gardens maxi nutrition Lacking a garden doesn’t mean you can’t embrace the organic. BALANCE explains how every Londoner has room to grow
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words by H A R R IE T MALLINSON
H A R V E S T F E S T I VA L
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or most Londoners, the only green space we enjoy is the nearest park – if it recovers from the summer’s scorching – while the majority of fruit and veg comes from the local supermarket. Being greenfingered is a luxury many people simply don’t enjoy… or so we think. In fact, growing organic produce in a city is not that hard, so long as you have a sunny spot and a bit of patience. A kitchen windowsill can provide herbs, tomatoes, salad and more. Just think: no more last-minute dashes to Tesco for rosemary for the Sunday roast – you have a whole forest right in front of you. By growing your own you have complete control over how it’s done. Without fertilisers or pesticides it’s completely organic, plus there are myriad nutritional benefits to picking and eating straight away. Decide what you use the most, what’s expensive to buy in a supermarket and what doesn’t take up too much space, then you can Alan Titchmarsh with the best of them. From an indoor windowsill or balcony to a patio or allotment, these are the plants best to start with – and how you can help them flourish.
CHANGING LANDSCAPE
MILLION
Number of British homes lacking a private garden by 2020
300,000kg
Volume of synthetic pesticides eliminated from UK farmland, thanks to organic practices. It has also removed 40,000 tonnes of artificial nitrogen
% Percentage of allotment owners who grow vegetables on their patch
AT LEAST
10%
Of global greenhouse gas thought to derive from agriculture
Species of bumblebee now extinct in the UK, with eight of the remaining 25 varieties also under threat
WINDOWSILLS An indoor herb garden is a great starting point if space is scarce 1. Pot luck “Regular harvesting keeps herbs compact,” says Nicky Roeber, horticultural expert at Wyevale Garden Centres, “but some fast-growing species, such as basil, need a little more space than
BALCONIES Often associated with Romeo and Juliet (and drying laundry), balconies are great kitchen-garden spots 1. Wind farm Remember it will be windy, and it’s hopeless to grow plants that aren’t suitable for these cramped, exposed conditions. 2. Take direction Veggies need full sun. There’s no way to get around this, so check your balcony isn’t north facing. 3. Repeat business Look for plants that produce over and over again rather than one-hit wonders like radishes, potatoes and cabbages. “Lettuce varieties and french beans are wonderful because they keep giving,” suggests garden designer Jack Wallington. “Brussels sprouts and kale are large plants, but
others. Pots with a diameter of 1015cm work well.” 2. Sunny side up “Most species prefer around six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day, so a south-facing window is best,” advises Roeber. 3. Choose wisely Jez Taylor, Head of Market Garden at Daylesford Organic recommends basil, mint, thyme, coriander and flat parsley. “Ideal herbs are those which you use just the tips. These ‘bush out’ and present more for the following harvest.”
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will produce enough for a good number of meals throughout winter. 4. Fruits of your labour Apples and pears can be grafted into rootstocks, which allow fruit trees to grow in small spaces. “Look for M27 rootstock apples and Quince C rootstock on pears.” 5. Looks good “The vast majority of herbs will love balcony life, especially rosemary, sage, fennel, basil and thyme. They look beautiful, too.” 6. Room to manoeuvre Pots over 35-40cm diameter retain moisture and give space to form good root systems. “Fill with a peat-free compost and add slow-release fertiliser like blood, fish and bone. For fruit and veg, feed weekly with seaweed fertiliser.”
4 Rain it in Be careful not to leave your herbs in waterlogged soil and allow them to dry out. “You can check this easily by using your finger to see if the first two inches of soil are dry,” says Roeber. Don’t expect to keep herbs indoors for longer than a few months, as there is only a fraction of the daylight available compared to outside. 5 Bean counter If you want to grow veg (and your windowsill enjoys plenty of sun), radishes, chillies, dwarf tomatoes, peas and broad, French or green beans all work well.
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The organic Organic special issue
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PATIOS OR ROOFTOPS With a bit more space to play with, you can branch out to growing vegetables in pots, troughs and grow-bags 1. Best of the best According to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), beetroot, broad beans, carrots, dwarf French beans, herbs, peas, potatoes, radishes, rocket, runner beans, chillies, peppers, salad leaves, salad onions, salad turnips and tomatoes are best for container cultivation. 2. Feeling fruity If you’re after fruit, RHS Chief Horticulturist Guy Barter suggests potted blueberries and raspberries. If you have a sunny wall or fence, consider grape vines, bramble fruits and trained fruit, edged with alpine strawberries. 3. Looks aren’t everything While you might be tempted by terracotta pots, they will need more watering due to their porous nature. Make sure containers have a depth and width of at least 45cm (18in) and use multi-purpose, peat-free compost for best results. 4. Take care “Regular and even watering is key, especially in pots,” says cook and kitchen gardener, Kathy Slack. “I water pots every other day in the height of summer, and if you have time to apply a liquid seaweed feed every week during the summer months, that will really help, too.” B
ALLOTMENTS Traditionally the preserve of middle-aged men in flat caps, citydwellers of any age and gender can reap rewards from having an allotment, including a consistent source of yearround organic food 1. Time management Keeping an allotment is time-consuming, so it’s best to grow plants you know you’ll use. “Plot to plate provides added freshness, especially for tomatoes, courgettes and sweet corn,” suggests Jeff Barber, London Regional Representative of The National Allotment Society.
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By 2030, it’s estimated 92 per cent of the UK population will live in cities where gardens come at a premium
2. Return on investment “Beans, courgettes and soft fruit will give a greater financial return. Radishes are often seen as the easiest crop as they need little attention and are ready to eat in a short space of time.” Asparagus, leeks, spring onions, leafy salads and Little Gem lettuce are also fairly expensive to purchase, but easy to grow. 3. Find your happy place Remember to space crops out so they’ll have more root room to find their own moisture. This means natural rainfall will go further and watering can be less of a problem.
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G ARDENER ’S WORLD
H A R V E S T F E S T I VA L
GREENFINGERED APPS
Affordable organic
It may have a reputation for being expensive, but organic products are really within everyone’s budget if you know where to look...
words by C HA RLO T T E D ORMON & LI B BY W I LL IA M S
GARDENTAGS Ideal for plant identification, planting inspiration, growing advice and plant care
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SMARTPLANT Utilises a ‘Digital Care Calendar’ for everything your garden and plants need
GKH GARDENING COMPANION Helps track your garden’s progress and sets reminders for tasks throughout the year
MYSOIL Created by the British Geological Survey, this enables you to check the soil quality and type in your local area
9AM
7AM
RHS GROW YOUR OWN Advice to help everyone grow fresh, healthy fruit, vegetables and herbs
Milk How much is a pint of milk? Not everyone knows the answer these days, but Aldi’s organic dairy selection is great value and means you can enjoy cereal while supporting better farming. £1.35 for 4 pints of organic semiskimmed milk, aldi.co.uk
Eggs Whether it’s scrambled for breakfast, or an omelette for dinner, these free-range organic eggs from Aldi are a cracking price. £1.29 for 6 eggs, aldi.co.uk
RISE AND SHINE
1PM
Brown pitta bread Pimp your packed lunch with these Duchy Organic brown pittas, and you can feel ever so slightly regal while you munch on your favourite fillings. £0.85p for 6, waitrose.com
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Oatcakes Healthy eating doesn’t have to cost a fortune, so load Nairn’s organic oatcakes with organic peanut butter and slices of banana and you’ve got yourself the ultimate fast and nutritious mid-morning tummy filler. £1.07 for 250g, waitrose.com
7.30PM 3Turmeric PM latte
Everyone from trendy yoga studios to high street chains loves this golden spice. Discover your inner barista with Pukka’s Turmeric Gold latte mix. £4.99 for 90g, tesco.com
Wild Salmon Whether you poach them, grill them, or stick them in a pie, these Sainsbury’s Taste The Difference wild salmon fillets are an affordable way to get omega 3 fatty acids. £5.75 for 2 x 230g fillets, sainsburys.co.uk
9Processco PM
Finishing Fridays with celebratory team drinks can be given a little extra sparkle with Lidl’s bargainpriced Viticoltori Organic Prosecco. £7.99 for 75cl lidl.co.uk
GOOD NIGHT CAP
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BALANCE PROMOTION
Food for Soil Association’s #OrganicSeptember is a healthy and delicious way to change for the better
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hen it comes to saving the planet, we all try to “do our bit”. Recycling is practically a given, as is avoiding plastic (where possible). Switching off lights is also a must; your dad may have been doing it for frugal reasons when you were a kid, but it turns out he was quite the environmental pioneer (albeit, an unwitting one). Now there is an extra way to be more environmentally conscious thanks to Organic September, an initiative of the Soil Association, the UK’s leading membership charity campaigning for healthy, humane and sustainable food, farming and land use. Embracing Organic September couldn’t be easier. After all, organic is food just as it should be, and it’s available from 8,000 outlets nationwide, from big supermarkets to corner shops. Indeed, switching to just one organic item per month (then stepping up to two, three and so on), could have a big impact on the environment, but not your bank account. That’s because organic bread, pasta, tea, milk and many seasonable vegetables often cost the same as their nonorganic counterparts. Some of you may be thinking, “What, exactly, do we mean by ‘organic’?” Well, organic farms always mean fewer pesticides. It’s staggering to think Organic is always free just under 300 pesticides range can be used in non-organic farming, with many remaining in the food we eat, despite thorough washing.
thought
The organic symbol is the best way to ensure food is produced to a standard you can trust
S E A L O F A P P R O VA L
Look for the logo to be sure what you buy is produced to the highest standards
WHAT D OES ORGANIC MEAN?
Fewer pesticides used
No artificial colours or preservatives
Always free range
No routine use of antibiotics
No GM ingredients
September 2018 BALANCE
Animals are always free range and have space to roam, which encourages natural behaviours, avoiding the need for routine antibiotics. You’ll never find artificial colours or preservatives, and GM ingredients are banned under organic standards. Organic farms are also a haven for wildlife, with up to 50% more bees, birds and butterflies. The standards for organic food are laid down by law, meaning you need a licence to grow, process and market organic products. Farms and companies are inspected at least once a year, so the organic symbol is the best way to ensure the food you eat has been produced to a standard you can trust. During Organic September, you’ll find great offers in store and online on organic brands, as well as recipes, competitions, events, top tips and inspiration on the Soil Association’s website. Follow #OrganicSeptember and #ChooseOrganic on social media, and discover how small changes can really make a big difference for you, nature and the planet. You see, that’s the great thing about Organic September: it’s a healthy and delicious way to “do your bit”. For more information, visit soilassociation.org/organicseptember
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‘Natural’, ‘organic’, ‘pure’. No matter your choice of diet, you can still enjoy great eating thanks to Lily Simpson’s Detox Kitchen
words by L AURA TAIT
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egetarian; pescatarian; organic only. There are tons of labels we use to define food choices, largely down to the fact more of us are making the decision to reduce or exclude meat from our diets. Yet many people still fear that embracing a new way of eating means sacrificing enjoyment. This is something Lily Simpson, founder of healthy food delivery service Detox Kitchen, hopes to counter with Detox Kitchen Vegetables. “Detox Kitchen Bible was a really conscious, detailed look at how certain foods make us feel and how they’re linked to certain ailments,” begins Lily. “My second book is much more about exploring flavours and celebrating vegetables.” The focus was inspired by Lily’s own change in diet. “I only became vegetarian about 18 months ago,” she says. “But what I’ve always done is celebrate vegetables, making them more of a focus than meat or fish. With more people becoming vegetarian or vegan, I really want people to enjoy it.” Lily’s ethos is making natural, quality ingredients key to creating dishes that taste wonderful and make you feel great. “I think it’s about cooking from scratch, using really good, consciouslysourced ingredients and having a balanced plate,” she says. “You need good fat, carbs and protein. It’s not clever to leave out things that are meant to be there for your health. ”
The benefits of cooking from scratch formed the basis of Lily’s career, launching Detox Kitchen in 2012 to address the difficulty of eating nutritious, tasty food, even with a busy schedule. “It came around when people were starting to question what was in their food,” she explains. “I ate terribly at uni, like most students, and never felt great. Then I was working myself into the ground in London.” Lily found it hard to prioritise her diet. “Growing up, I’d always eaten really well. My mum always cooked from scratch, but I didn’t have time. People need to eat natural, balanced meals, and that’s where Detox Kitchen was born. It’s about going back to basics: wholesome, honest food with no preservatives or additives.” Detox Kitchen Vegetables takes this a step further, using 33 different veggies and making them the star of each dish in a way people can easily recreate at home. “There are a few recipes for each vegetable, and I talk about good flavour combinations and how to cook it,” she explains. “Nothing I do is overly complicated. It’s about getting as much flavour as possible into the dish, and making it simple.”
Flip the page to enjoy more delicious vegetarian detox dishes from Lily
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Meat-free magnificence
VEG OUT
ASPARAGUS AND SPINACH SOUP Serves 4
vegetable stock. Bring to the boil, then simmer until the potatoes are softened.
Ingredients • Rapeseed oil for frying • 2 spring onions, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 250g new potatoes • 2 celery sticks, diced • 500ml vegetable stock • 8 asparagus spears (ends broken off) • 250g spinach • Flaked sea salt and cracked black pepper • Toasted sunflower seeds, to garnish 1. Heat a little oil in a saucepan, tip in the spring onions and garlic and cook until soft. Add the potatoes, celery and
2. Take the asparagus tips from the stalks, then cut the tips lengthways in half. Chop the stalks. Add all the asparagus to the pan and cook it for 2–3 minutes until almost tender. Add the spinach and cook for 1 minute. 3. Transfer half of the mixture to a blender or food processor and blitz until smooth. Pour this back into the pan. Add a good pinch of salt and pepper. Reheat if necessary before serving hot, sprinkled with sunflower seeds.
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Green goddess
ONE-STOP SHOP This super-green soup is made using a few simple ingredients that would very likely grow next to each other in a vegetable garden
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Organic special
VEG OUT
DETOX DELIGHT
Detox Kitchen Vegetables by Lily Simpson is out now (£26 Bloomsbury)
Flat hunting
FLATBREADS TOPPED WITH SPINACH AND EGG Serves 4 Ingredients • A handful of caraway seeds • 250g chickpea flour • 125-175ml cold water • 400g jarred butter beans, drained & rinsed • 1 tbsp rapeseed oil, plus extra for frying • 200g spinach • 4 eggs • Toasted pumpkin seeds to sprinkle • Flaked sea salt and cracked black pepper
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1. Toast the caraway seeds in a dry frying pan until fragrant. Tip into a bowl and add the flour and a pinch of salt and pepper. Gradually mix in enough water to create a thick batter, then chill for 2 hours.
3. Heat a little oil in a 20cm frying pan. Spoon in about a quarter of the batter mix, spreading it out to create a large pancake. Once golden on the base, flip over and cook the other side, then transfer them to a tray.
2. To make the spinach mixture, place the butter beans, oil and a pinch of salt and pepper in a food processor and blitz until smooth. Add the spinach and blitz again. Set aside.
4. When all the flatbreads are on the tray, smear the spinach mixture over them and then crack an egg on top of each. Bake for 2–3 minutes until the eggs are cooked. Season and add pumpkin seeds to serve.
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Organic special
VEG OUT
STUFFED ROMANO PEPPERS Serves 4 Ingredients • 4 Romano peppers • Olive oil for drizzling and frying • 100g black rice • 3 spring onions, sliced • 2 garlic cloves, chopped • 2 tbsp grated fresh root ginger • 1 small courgette, diced • ¼ cauliflower, cut into small florets • 2 vine tomatoes, roughly chopped • 3 fresh thyme sprigs • Zest of 1 lemon • 2 tbsp tamari • 450ml water • 100g gluten-free breadcrumbs • Fresh flat-leaf parsley, to garnish
Pep talk
2. Meanwhile, make the stuffing. Put the rice in a pan with a pinch of salt and cover with three times the amount of water. Bring to the boil, then simmer for 30–35 minutes until tender and fluffy. Drain and set aside.
To serve • ½ cucumber, peeled, seeded & diced • 4 vine tomatoes, sliced • 1 Baby Gem lettuce, roughly chopped • Sea salt & cracked black pepper
3. Heat a little olive oil in a frying pan set over a medium heat. Add the spring onions, garlic and ginger and cook until softened. Add the courgette, cauliflower, chopped tomatoes, thyme, lemon zest, tamari and 200ml of water. Simmer until the liquid has evaporated, then stir in the rice with the remaining 250ml water. Continue to cook until all the liquid has been absorbed.
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C/ Fan 180°C/Gas 6. Cut the peppers in half lengthways, through the stalk (keep this attached). Lay the halves cut side up on a baking tray and drizzle over a little olive oil. Season and roast for 20 minutes.
4. Spoon the mixture into the pepper halves and cover evenly with the breadcrumbs. Bake for 15–20 minutes until the crumbs are golden. Serve with a simple cucumber, tomato and baby gem salad. B
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organic feasts Organic September returns with a new wave of eateries caring about their ingredients. Whether you’re vegan, a conscious carnivore or just want great grub, Stacey Smith tells you where to begin
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MANIFESTO
NATIVE
Shoreditch
Clapham
Borough Market
Genesis offers a plant-based, GMO-free organic menu with street food influences from around the world. With casual, counter-style service, this is the brainchild of Alex and Oliver Santoro, whose family have (ironically) been involved in the meat industry for over one hundred years. Appealing to vegans and meat-eaters alike, don’t miss their signature burgers which come sandwiched between vegan organic brioche buns and topped with creamy coleslaw, BBQ sauce, onion rings, jalapeños, and gherkins. Instagram.com/eatgenesis
This Clapham pizzeria is going through the official approval process with the Soil Association and is on track to become the first 5-star certified organic pizzeria in the UK. A short and sweet menu offering just six options, you won’t find any regular mozzarella here. Instead fresh Fior Di Latte is sourced from Puglia, produced entirely from local milk and flour is from an 80-year old mill. Despite this emphasis on premium ingredients, pizzas start at just £6. manifestopizza.com
Native have recently had to move out of their Covent Garden digs to a bigger spot in Southwark Street, by Borough Market, to keep up with demand. Continuing their love for organic produce, with a focus on foraged ingredients, they offer an a la carte menu with the likes of zero waste snacks and fallow deer from the South Downs National Park. Alternatively, a tasting menu will take you on a journey of the best seasonal ingredients Britain has to offer at any one time. eatnative.co.uk
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BALANCE PROMOTION
Leaders of the packed
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ust because you follow a healthy lifestyle, doesn’t mean you have to live like a Trappist monk. However, there occasionally appears to be a direct correlation between extreme health and extreme seriousness: is that person in your spin class toned and taut from exercise, or because they haven’t smiled since 1995? The team at Eat Natural care passionately about creating cereals and bars that are not only good for you, but also enjoyable and delicious. Their ‘protein packed’ range has proved to be a sell-out smash, and now they’ve roared back with a devilishly delicious addition to the line-up: salted caramel. It hits this coveted top spot on account of being packed with sweet, crunchy little peanuts, gooey salted caramel, lip-smackingly juicy dates and flavoursome almonds. What’s more, each bar is packed with goodness and contains over 11g of natural plant proteins. “I defy anyone not to devour this,” says
Eat Natural unleashes a protein packed salted caramel bar
Harriet Gregory, Eat Natural’s Director of Deliciousness, who created the bar. “It’s sweet, slightly salty and really substantial, so leaves you feeling satisfied for longer than a normal sweet treat. Enjoy!” Eat Natural products are crafted pretty much by hand at their ‘Makery’ in Essex and there are no artificial flavours, colours, preservatives or gluten. And because they make you feel fuller for longer, Eat Natural bars are an ideal accompaniment to any workout. By all means, feel free to crack a smile. Eat Natural protein packed salted caramel bars are available from Sainsbury’s and Waitrose stores across the UK. For more information, visit eatnatural.com
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THE PROTEIN TEAM
Peanuts became popular as a form of protein during World War II, when meat was in short supply and peanut butter offered a quick energy boost
Dates are rich in fibre (good for gut health), and potassium to help regulate blood pressure
Almonds contain monounsaturated fat, and help protect the heart by maintaining strong levels of good cholesterol (HDL)
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grow your bus EARLY ADOPTER One of the first uses of ‘organic growth’ appeared in Japanese agricultural economist and author Inazo Nitobe’s 1899 book, The Soul of Japan, relating to the Bushido honour code
1. ASK WHAT YOU DO BETTER
A natural path to growth exists for those who aren’t afraid to cultivate the right conditions words by DALE TAILOR photography by COL IN ANDERS ON
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s Jay-Z once said, “I’m not a businessman, I’m a business, man”. If you’re your own brand, or looking to start up, organic growth is the mantra for market success. Achieving upticks without a spend on marketing or advertising is where everyone wants to be. Here are nine steps to let your idea flourish in the best possible way…
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Even though they eat the same prey and are physically equal, it’s easy for a lion to dominate a hyena because the lion plays to it’s strengths: agility and attitude. Learn from the king and outshine your rivals by taking time to understand what you do better than them. According to a Hinge Marketing report, high growth companies are twice as likely as stagnant growth businesses to have clear and simple differentiators – up to 20% more than the competitive set. Use differentiation to make it yours for the taking.
2. LOOK BACK, MOVE FORWARD If you don’t know what you’re chasing, why bother with the hunt? Firms that show high organic growth are twice as likely to have studied or commissioned
SELF PROMOTION
siness organically more extensive research on their target market than their competitors. Once you know exactly who you’re stalking, you can tailor your services to their precise needs. You will then forge customer loyalty that will act as weapons grade fertiliser for your year-on-year growth rate.
3. LISTEN UP Even if you’re doing business in the virtual world, growth happens in the same way it did in yesteryear. “Word-ofmouth marketing is a crucial component of organic growth for start-ups and one of the primary ways Weebly has grown,” says David Rusenko, founder of the aforementioned e-commerce platform that now boasts 50 million users. This growth opportunity is more important than ever because it’s the most trustworthy and all boils down to individual experiences. Every customer counts: make them feel special and uniquely catered for during every transaction and you’ll win their hearts.
PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES
4. BECOME A TRIPLE THREAT A tree doesn’t just use its branches to expand its reach: it grows using roots and its trunk, too. Learn from the mother of organic growth and harness the aspects outlined in a McKinsey & Company survey, Three Strategies of Organic Growth. Invest in products or services that have created growth in the past; create new products and services; and perform better on core commercial capabilities. This will help you work within your means, so you don’t overstretch your resources.
a tight reign on costs. To make sure you’re always self-checking your books, do a cost-benefit analysis every quarter. This is where you weigh up the costs of a decision versus the profits it generates. An easy way to do this is to visit an online Return On Investment Calculator (such as goodcalculators.com), where you can figure out if you’d be better off leaving your cash in the bank to accrue interest. If the costs in your industry are too hungry, you should know whether to cash out or keep biting.
6. YOU WONT WIN ON PRICE “The days of expecting the quality of a product or service to speak for itself are over,” explains Adam Pratt, leading financial consultant at Easily Started (easilystarted.com). “Outside property and infrastructure, you can stack them high and sell them cheap, but the race to the bottom price is well underway. The modern economy is all about experience, from initial contact to after sales. If you get this right, capture the feedback and build a network of trust, you are well on your way to organic growth. Whether it’s online or face to face, convenience and human contact when the customer wants it are king.”
7. THERE ARE NO QUICK FIXES If you’ve come for an instant fix, turn back now because while simplicity might be the art of expression, you can’t always be reductive – and the world’s smartest business minds know this. “The beauty of compounding iterative algorithms
BOSSING IT
5. WHERE PROFIT IS, LOSS IS HIDDEN NEAR BY This is an ancient Japanese proverb that’s always underpinned the growth of their economy, primarily highlighting keeping
Use this to decide who you need to be and to stimulate the organic growth you’re chasing
– evolution, fractals, organic growth, art – derives from their irreducibility,” says Steve Jurvetson, the wildly successful venture capitalist who currently sits on the board of Tesla. What he means is business is complex and an art form with many synergistic notes working as a symphony to create something beautiful. One misstep and it becomes displeasing to the ear and will ruin the overall message.
8. YOUR REP IS EVERYTHING If you’re striving to be so popular the name of your product becomes a verb, you need to protect your brand at all costs. It’s the basis of who you are and what you’ll become, which was echoed by the McKinsey & Company survey. They found one of the key commonalities of high organic growth companies is having a clearly defined brand and a very distinct organisational culture. Be unique and make your company’s personality fit your own, so that in day to day operations, you’re always embracing who you are at your core. If you’re quirky and like flowers in your hair, be that person – not the stiff suit your competitors expect you to be.
9. BE THE RIGHT LEADER You are who you are, but it is possible to don the kind of mask that pollinates the growth process. A paper from the Universiteit van Tilburg in the Netherlands found the leadership style most likely to produce organic growth is best suited to the stage of the company. B
FIRM TYPE
BEST LEADERSHIP STYLE
Young & small
Enthusiastic and dedicated
In a state of minor change
Compliance & supervision focussed
To lead radical change
Individualistic and strategic
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SEPTEMBER WELLNESS EVENTS BALANCE has joined forces with Kinetic to bring you an illuminating series of wellbeing workshops this month…
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re you ready to make wellness a priority? Then join us at Planet Organic and be inspired by some of London’s top health experts, speakers, influencers and bloggers. Each event is designed to leave you feeling full of energy and brimming with new ideas, and you can choose from a panel debate, beauty workshop or mindfulness masterclass – or come along to all three. And don’t forget to pick up your VIP goody bag!
EVENT SCHEDULE
PANEL: HOW TO LIVE A CHEMICAL-FREE LIFE
ORGANIC BEAUT Y WORKSHOP
MINDFUL EATING MASTERCLASS
In association with Jasön, Avalon Organics and Nature’s Answer
Make your own natural body scrub in association with Antipodes
When 6pm-9pm, 12 September
When 6.30pm-9.30pm, 19 September
In association with Garden of Life, OM Organic Mushrooms, Nutiva and Organic Traditions
Venue Planet Organic, 23-24 Tottenham Court Rd, London, W1T 1BJ
Venue Planet Organic, 42 Westbourne Grove, London, W2 5SH
Every day, we’re surrounded by potentially hazardous chemicals we can’t see. They’re in the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the lotions we use, the air we breathe. But how do you start your journey towards chemical-free living? This lively panel debate, chaired by editor and founder of BALANCE, Sophie Scott, will explore what you can do to reduce your exposure to toxins – without breaking the bank.
Join beauty and skincare experts from Antipodes for an organic workshop where you’ll learn how to craft your very own 100% natural body scrub. Using carefully selected ingredients, (such as manuka honey, camomile and chia seeds), you’ll learn their holistic Limited seats, reserve yourused space benefi ts and why they are in now balancebeautyworkshop.eventbrite.com Antipodes’ miracle products. This will be followed by a make-up masterclass, with personalised tips for selecting products and colours.
A growing body of research suggests a slower, more thoughtful way of eating could help steer some people away from processed foods and unhealthy choices. Mindful eating isn’t just about satisfying hunger; it’s also a gratitude practice. In this session, you’ll learn to appreciate the tastes, aromas, colours and textures that make a meal a total sensory experience.
Tickets: balancebeautyworkshop. eventbrite.com
Tickets: balancemindfuleating. eventbrite.com
Tickets: balancechemicalfreeliving. eventbrite.com
September 2018 BA LA N CE
When 6pm-9pm, 26 September Venue Planet Organic, 23-24 Tottenham Court Rd, London, W1T 1BJ
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BALANCE PROMOTION
No more
F
Seedlip, pioneers of nonalcoholic spirits, have unleashed a delicious new tipple – Grove 42
Lime and soda
izzy pop; cordial; water. If you’re teetotal, or have swerved alcohol for a while, you’ll know there aren’t many options when it comes to finding a new tipple. That’s why Seedlip has been such a smash hit of late, providing a lipsmacking alternative to alcohol. Officially the world’s first distilled non-alcoholic spirits, the Seedlip range works with a splash of tonic or as part of a cocktail. And, if you’ve been to a wedding, dinner party or any sort of social gathering and wanted to remain sober, you’ll know first-hand the importance of discovering a booze-free drink that also feels adult. Seedlip shot to prominence thanks to two flavours – Spice 94 and Garden 108 – and now there’s a new kid on the block: the deliciously citrussy Grove 42. A celebration of all things zesty, you’ll get notes of bitter orange, mandarin, blood orange, lemongrass, ginger and lemon, all combining to make for a truly adult experience. Paired with tonic and garnished with an orange twist, this tastes like sunshine in a glass, making it ideal to chase away the autumnal blues. And, as we approach Christmas, Grove 42 can even be incorporated into a non-alcoholic mulled drink – perfect for those chilly winter nights.
SIGNATURE SERVE Fill a tall glass with ice, add 50ml Seedlip Grove 42, top with tonic and garnish with orange peel
Available from Selfridges and direct from seedlipdrinks.com
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P O R TA B L E PA M P E R I N G
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On-the-go organics Pocketsized essentials to keep you ‘au natural’ wherever you are
LEE KYNASTON
MAIN IMAGE: STOCKSY. *SOURCE: ALLURINGSOUL.COM
Although a firm believer that real beauty comes from the inside, Lee sees no harm in giving the outside some TLC.
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here was a time when most people’s beauty regime was basin-bound: man or woman, the bathroom was the place for primping and preening. But times have changed. So much so that according to research company Mintel, the fast pace of modern urban life has triggered a dramatic shift in how we view our grooming routines, with an increasing number looking for more portable solutions to skin and haircare issues. These days, we’re just as likely to be getting ready for the day ahead while on public transport (I’m in awe of women who apply liquid eyeliner on the bumpy Bakerloo line) or adding the finishing touches for a night out while still in the office. Lunchtime gym sessions, meanwhile, mean we pretty much have to start with skin and haircare again midway through the day. It's not hard to see the appeal of on-the-go products, and if you’re a fan of organic beauty, you’ll probably want the tools in your bag to be as natural as those in your bathroom.
GREEN FOR GO Thankfully, there are plenty of on-the-go products for organic aficionados: The Ordinary’s 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil (a dinky multi-tasker) is just as good for conditioning skin as it is hair; Avalon Organics’ Daily Moisturiser is ideal for combating the moisture-robbing effects of office air-con; and Neal’s Yard Remedies’ Organic Defence Hand
T HORNY ISSUE
As a natural source of fatty acids omega 3, 6 and 9, rosehip oil can help repair damaged skin and reduce visible scarring. It can even help combat signs of ageing*
Spray utilises the bacteria-busting properties of witch-hazel and a raft of organic oils to keep your mitts free of the nasties that hitch a lift during the daily commute.
HIP REPLACEMENT Organic skincare brand Acorelle, meanwhile, have a great selection of organic roll-on perfumes, including genderless creations like Tea Garden, which blends green tea with notes of lemon, patchouli and cedarwood and is great for gym bags and coat pockets. My favourite pocket-sized product is organic rosehip oil. A brilliant hydrator, it’s packed full of face-saving antioxidants and since it’s ‘dry’ and quickly absorbed, it doesn’t leave a greasy residue. I bought my first bottle after interviewing David Gandy, who revealed it was his go-to product. One teeny criticism: despite three years of using Trilogy’s best-selling organic rosehip oil, I still don’t have Mr Gandy’s good looks. Am I’m doing something wrong? B
P ER MI T TO TRAV EL
❶
❺
❸
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Back to nature
❻ September 2018 BA LA N CE
1. Avalon Organics Brilliant Balance Daily Moisturiser, £10.99 for 50g revital.co.uk 2. Acorelle Tea Garden Organic Perfume Roll On, £13 for 10ml sorganic.com 3. Neal’s Yard Remedies Organic Defence Hand Spray, £6.50 for 50ml, nealsyardremedies.com 4. Trilogy 100% Natural
Certified Organic Rosehip Oil, £19.50 for 20ml johnlewis.com 5. Dr Organic Organic Hemp Oil Lip Serum, £4.99 for 10ml hollandandbarrett 6. The Ordinary 100% Organic Cold-Pressed Moroccan Argan Oil, £5.90 for 30ml feelunique.com
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SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Organic l
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GOOD LIFE how the capital is looking after itself index 27%
FARM OUR FUTURE
Since 2017, sales of organic products via home delivery have grown by 9.5%
75% more plant species grow on organic farms
If all farming in England and Wales was organic, we would see a 98% drop in pesticide use
In 2016-17, 48,000 UK children were being home-schooled, a rise of 40% from 2014-15
The average increase in wildlife on organic farms is 50%
This year, 168,000 people took part in Veganuary, 60% of whom were under 35
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MILLION
#organic posts on Instagram
CAPITAL GAINS
London boasts 737 allotment sites, providing a total of 20,786 individual plots
Reduction in agriculture’s greenhouse gas emissions if organic farming was commonplace in the UK
the organic beauty and wellbeing sector grew 24% in 2017, and is now worth £75.9M
Organic & natural influencers
YOU SHOULD FOLLOW HONEYANDROOTS 17,700 Instagram subscribers Transformative impact on human and planetary health HOLISTICHABITS 622,000 YouTube subscribers 135,000 Instagram subscribers Natural and organic beauty
Water way to live
IN LONDON ALONE, MORE THAN 10,000 PEOPLE NOW LIVE ON HOUSE BOATS
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LAURA’S NATURAL LIFE 24,000 YouTube subscribers 22,200 Instagram subscribers Natural and organic beauty
COMPILED BY: LIBBY WILLIAMS. SOURCES: FT.COM, BBC.CO.UK. THE GUARDIAN, TVLICENSING.CO.UK, ONS.GOV.UK, TFL, DELOITTE, DEFRA, THE INDEPENDENT, GREENMATCH.CO.UK,SOIL ASSOCIATION
OF UK HOUSEHOLDS USE A FOOD WASTE RECYCLING CADDY SUPPLIED AND COLLECTED BY LOCAL AUTHORITIES
words by S ISKI G R EEN illustration by J ULIA H ERM ANS S ON
e b y a M ? u o y i t ’s to end a ons y a w d é h si me a clic aking hard deci o c e b s a h o , it’s me’ t if it is you? By m , you can learn t u o y t o n h a ‘It’s , but wh comfortable trut ky ground p i h s n o i t n rela the u om roc r o f t y g a n i w n a e and list e relationships r steer futu
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W H AT L I E S B E N E AT H
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erhaps the main problem with ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ is you simply don’t believe it. Even if, logically, you know it most likely is them who’s at fault, it’s unlikely they’d have the clarity, honesty and generosity to express it. Because, let’s be honest: how many people in the world are genuinely that empathetic? If you find yourself on the receiving end, ask what you can do with the information. And the answer? Stop yourself from having to go through it again – if you’re willing to ask questions and are open to honest answers.
GET YOUR EX TO SPILL THE BEANS To begin with, if you can get more information or details from your ex, that’s a great start. “Sometimes ‘it’s not you, it’s me’, is an attempt to avoid conflict from a person who believes it is all about you,” says clinical psychologist Dr Lisa Firestone, co-author of Sex and Love in Intimate Relationships. “We do our exes a disservice if we don’t give real feedback about what we found troubling. Sometimes, it may be hard to pinpoint, but the more honest we are, the better it ends for both of us.” It’s worth remembering though, that if you ask your ex to be honest, what they say will hurt. How you process these revelations can make the difference between experiencing more heartache, or enjoying a healthy future relationship.
IT’S NOT YOU OR THEM All that said, it’s also true our obsession with laying the blame firmly at one person’s door must come to an end, because it’s simply not logical. “When we fall in love,” suggests Dr Ian Kerner, author of She Comes First, “we never think to suggest the love occurred in a vacuum. We would never say, ‘I fell in love with you, but it was absolutely not because of you at all’. “Yet when we fall out of love and say, ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ we’re trying to suggest they’re not involved.” The fundamental law of relationships is there are two sides; two interpretations; two sets of feelings, so it’s important to separate blame from cause. What they’re actually trying to say is they don’t want you to blame yourself. “Sometimes, a relationship simply doesn’t
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provide the connection needed to keep it going. This can be chemical, and there are studies showing we’re sexually attracted to those who have different immune systems to our own, for example. Or it can be physical: a person’s idea of what they find attractive is shaped by genetics and environment, and while they may find you attractive in an objective sense (she’s pretty, he’s handsome), you somehow don’t fit into their subjective or maybe subconscious feelings about what is attractive. Finally, it can simply be emotional.” “The most important thing a person can do is to try and explore the patterns they adopted and the styles of relating they learned from their earliest relationships,” says Dr Firestone. “The adaptations we make to get our needs met in our families often persist in our relationships, even though they are rarely adaptive in our adult life. “The negative expectations we have around how others will treat us, which we all too often contribute to making come true, are also shaped by how we were treated early in our lives. By feeling the pain, and making sense of, early relationships, we can change how we feel about ourselves and our romantic liaisons for the better. This exploration can impact everything from partners we’re drawn to, to the way we interact and the behaviour we elicit.”
IT KEEPS REPEATING ON YOU When relationship after relationship ends, regardless of what you do, it’s actually quite likely that it is you, just not in the way you think. “Without meaning to, we subconsciously choose the wrong people to date or have relationships with,” says Dr Kerner. “People with low self-esteem might zone in on those
D O AS K U O Y IF X TO B E E R U O Y T T, W H A H U RT S E N O H L AY W I L S Y E H T
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FIND YOUR BALANCE RECALIBRATE YOUR BRAIN POST-BREAKUP BOOST ENDORPHINS Give your happy hormone a helping hand by hitting the gym to get your blood pumping with a high intensity aerobic workout. A spinning, HIIT or dance class will do just the trick.
NOURISH YOUR BODY You’ll probably be feeling stressed after a breakup, causing your cortisol levels to increase. Snacking on fruit high in vitamin C, such as blueberries and cherries, can help reduce this stress hormone, helping you feel more level-headed.
STAY POSITIVE Positive affirmations have been proven to help reduce anxiety, negativity, guilt, fear and pain. Spending five minutes a day thinking about, and saying aloud, the things you are grateful for will help you keep a balanced perspective.
who treat them as they feel they deserve to be treated: badly. “Anyone who experienced certain negative behaviours as a child may seek out partners with those same behaviours as an adult. This can be a subconscious thing, where you attempt to rectify what went on during childhood. If it happens more than twice, ask yourself whether your choice of dates or partners share similarities. If they fit a certain ‘type’, you may be stuck in a rut, choosing the wrong people.”
TIME FOR A REALITY CHECK This, suggests Dr Firestone, is an opportunity to understand and change. “We can challenge our defences and adaptations, stop listening to critical inner voices which are the language of the defensive process, be more loving toward partners and more kind to ourselves.” Sometimes, though, the line is genuine. “There are times when it is said because the person sees their struggles and limitations realistically and they are being honest,” says Dr Firestone. If your ex has issues unrelated to your relationship (past trauma, for example) and they express this to you, it’s safe to assume they’re not just looking for an easy out. While the cliché suggests you’re part of the problem, it doesn’t mean you’re doomed to a lifetime of failed relationships. Take a good hard look at your choices in relationships, work on addressing past traumas, and get back out there. Because for someone, it is all about you – in the best possible way. B
W H AT L I E S B E N E AT H
OFF T HE SCAL E
On the Holmes and Rahe Stress Scale, divorce is the second most stressful life eventÂ
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Game changer
The England World Cup winner tackled his mental health demons, and now he wants us all to kick anxiety into touch
words by JAM E S G ILL photography by T OM SHAW
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his is an unusual way to start any feature: with a confession. We’d originally set up an interview with Jonny Wilkinson for our Masterclass page, hoping England’s greatest-ever rugby star would share his tips on sporting excellence. When we spoke with Wilko, things immediately took a different turn. The 39-year-old from Frimley, Surrey, opened up about his relationship with stress and anxiety, and explained how ‘resistance’ has always been part of his life. And yet, Jonny pointed to a brighter future attainable through open and honest communication (and kombucha). We kicked off with a question about how he always seems so grounded, and his response set the tone for what proved a very special conversation. “When I was younger, as much as I may have seemed grounded, I was stressing and suffering and struggling before games,” he says. “My values came from being the best, which was telling other people they weren’t as good as me. All these things like competition and
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comparison made me hugely judgemental. Even when I was in interviews I wanted to be the most modest, most humble guy, which essentially is quite ironic.”
THE CURTAIN COMES DOWN Not even victory brought serenity. Most sportspeople take enormous satisfaction in the trophies they win, the tangible fruits of the marriage between labour and excellence. Yet Jonny found the experience utterly hollow. “I’d won the World Cup and other trophies, and achieved all these things. Once I arrived at those spaces where I figured the Hollywood happy ending was, there was nothing there.” To any onlooker, it seemed Jonny achieved the perfect ending thanks to two spine-tingling, back-to-back Heineken Cup triumphs with Toulon in 2013 and 2014 before retirement. But nothing could be further from the truth. “I’d love to say it was all open space and exploring life, but when it came to the last two games of my career, I knew I’d never play rugby again. “I was someone who’d designed themselves as a perfectionist for most
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of my career; I then had two chances to leave a mark and a legacy, which was what I was so into at that age; it couldn’t matter more. “I was having to go on to that field with no control over what was about to happen, so the anxiety was incredible at that stage.”
JOIN THE RESISTANCE Sport didn’t make Jonny feel like this. Life did. Put simply, it’s how he’s wired. He says: “It was always a mental health journey in that throughout my entire life, and from being very young, I just experienced enormous resistance to certain things, at times what seemed like an inescapable resistance to certain situations. “My whole journey, at that stage, became one superhuman effort to overcome the resistance, which was just to create more of it. “I took on the biggest questions alive and I wanted to beat them. It was a nice effort, but I was going in the opposite direction. By trying to overcome the resistance I was only sort of creating
K N O C K- O N E F F E C T
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has granted him something approaching steeper mountains, which just seemed peace. Studying, creating and learning even more insurmountable. all about the fermented drink has “At some point you stop trying to climb clearly been a journey. “My wife has out of these ever-deeper holes and you been working on a Masters in nutrition realise that actually the black hole is and worked in naturopathy, so we taking you so close to the core of started making kombucha at everything, if you’re willing just home as a fermented, living, to look in the other direction POSTAL SERVICE unpasteurised drink. which is a little bit deeper.” Jonny Wilkinson “It became a case of However, he ended his England us integrating it into our acknowledges that gamecareer with a successful kick lifestyle to see whether time brought serenity. percentage of physically it works with me, “Between those whistles 86.24% or creates resistance and works is probably one of the most against me. One thing I found out spiritual experiences you can immediately was it had a boosting and have because for the most part, when a very flowing effect with me and the way the action heats up, you lose yourself I wanted to live.” completely; you become the game itself.” “My experience, from a physical perspective, is that there’s more ease and TASTE OF SUCCESS effortlessness. I don’t have any internal Often when a ‘brand ambassador’ talks stress from this; when I’m moving at about a product they’re promoting, ease, flowing and effortless, there’s no it can be quite the turn-off. But, in stop-start to my life. It aids me in what the case of Wilkinson, it seems No1 I describe as a kind of gentle acceleration Kombucha – a company he co-owns –
on growth from the start of the day to the end of the day. “There are no peaks where you feel oh-my-god amazing, followed by massive downs. That harmony is what underpins the physical health and certainly ventures into mental health as well.”
TALKING POINT Jonny would love for us all to use mental health as a conversational jumping-off point as a means of getting to know each other better. Instead of talking about which bands or films you like, Jonny says, “Go for something else to find in common: go to anxiety, go to stress, to struggle, go to regret, whatever it is. “We’re all trying to connect with each other on the basis of what we all share, what we’re all great and amazing at, but that’s the stuff that we’re most anxious about! “If you start with opening up on that level then you’ll find you can connect with anyone in any way. You
MAIN IMAGE: TOM SHAW - WORLD RUGBY/GETTY IMAGES
K N O C K- O N E F F E C T
may not have experienced winning a World Cup, but it doesn’t matter. That’s just context. “You’ve experienced, I’m sure, in so many ways the things that you’re excited about, and hugely pleased about and then, maybe after, you’ve experienced the immediate gentle emptiness that follows. You realise that arriving is not the goal, there is no destination, and that’s what causes the issue. “Then suddenly you think that maybe the journey was more important. Share that. You’re on the same team as everyone, so why would you hide something that would connect you to everyone else around you? “Even if they’re hiding theirs, when you’re speaking to them they’ll be dying to tell you how they relate and how they connect.” B Jonny Wilkinson’s No1 Kombucha is available exclusively in Sainsbury’s. For more information, visit no1kombucha.com
NG PPI D RO T O I N RY TO HIS
JONNY’S THE NEW KING OF KOMBUCHA
Wilko’s life changes, as he secures the Webb Ellis Cup for England in 2003
Hard at work, designing the logo for No1 Kumbucha, his latest venture
Bringing down the curtain on a stellar career with a trophy-laden spell with Toulon
N AV I G AT I O N S L U G
CAMANFLAGE NOUN. / THE HAPPY FRONT MEN WEAR IN CERTAIN SOCIAL SITUATIONS.
WORDS: XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX XXXX6.5PT/8PT APERCU
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October 2017 BA LA N CE
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Chavutti Thirumal If you slouch at your desk, someone walking on your back will make you think straight, writes James Gill
WORDS: JAMES GILL, LAURA HILL. ILLUSTRATION: ACUTEGRAPHICS.CO.UK
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aying a lithe man to work up a sweat as he walks up and down your naked body, while holding on to a harness, sounds like the sort of thing that took place in Soho basements in the early Eighties, rather than trendy Shoreditch in 2018. But please know, it’s a thing. The lithe man in question is Ramu Nair and the treatment is Chavutti Thirumal, an ayurvedic walking massage from southern India that’s now a treatment at Triyoga studios. Honest to goodness, it is incredible. If, like me, you have the sort of posture that would encourage Quasimodo to give you a sympathetic glance, then an ayurvedic expert marching on your spine is the stuff of which upright dreams are made. We don’t get off to the best of starts. As Ramu silently guides me towards a treatment room, where there is little more than a mat and a couple of towels; one large, the other napkin-sized. He
well informed WHEN IT COMES TO HEAD vs HEART, YOU SHOULD IGNORE BOTH AND LISTEN TO YOUR TUMMY INSTEAD…
instructs me to remove all my clothes, which prompts me to regale him with an anecdote about tantric sex therapy from a previous issue. There is an awkward silence. Now I have a man I’ve never met staring blankly at me as if I’m expecting this to climax in a happy ending. “It wasn’t like that!” I laugh, holding my hands up. Silence. “Yes, well,” says Ramu. “There’ll be none of that here.” Oh, dear God. Putting aside the fact he now thinks I’m a pervert, Ramu has me lie face down as he grips a washing line-like harness, testing the pressure with his feet. Such are the sounds, you’d assume Ramu had trodden on a box of eggs. My back, he tells me, is in bad nick. I’m a lapsed yoga enthusiast, and he strongly recommends a return. It’s all the encouragement I need. Ramu then starts to laugh. When he’d told me to cover myself with a towel, he’d meant the big one he’d personally handed to me, rather than the glorified
Believe in belly talk We’ve all experienced the head versus heart conundrum but when deciding our fate, research suggests we should listen to our tummies. Led by scientists, a new study has shown our ability to navigate through difficult situations might not require the mental fortitude we assumed. Instead, trusting
doily. I’d thought it odd said ‘towel’ barely covered a buttock, but didn’t want to flag it for fear of causing trouble after the earlier incident. The good news: my body feels more open and I’m determined to return to yoga. The bad news? I dare not make said comeback at Triyoga. Perhaps Soho would make more sense after all. B
BACK FOR GOOD Give it a go For anyone who’s concerned about their posture
BOOKING INFO
Cost £70 an hour
our ‘gut feelings’ can often be the best strategy. Animal instincts Research says biological conditions like hunger are stored as ‘memories’ by our gut, and, when experienced, prompt us to make decisions based on what we think our chances of survival are in that instant. A further study on
September 2017 BA LA N CE
High point The many snap, crackle and pops felt terrific
Booking info triyoga.co.uk
Low point The fear that Ramu will put me on a register
animals showed when basing decisions on current energy reserves alone, survival was just as certain as when using the brain to calculate actions. Next time hunger strikes, maybe don’t be sorry for what you said while you were ‘hangry’. After all, you were probably following your gut. Laura Hill, Senior Editor, welltodoglobal.com
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Add to
overnight oats
The road to Purition After a new, real food alternative to protein powder? You’re in luck...
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e’re not telling tales when we say some products aren’t as healthy as they claim to be. That’s what inspired the team at Purition to create something of genuine benefit: a real food alternative to a powder, with an extra protein kick delivered by whey protein isolate from British milk, or a blend of EU plant proteins Founder Louise Taylor explains: “When we started our journey to good health, we analysed ‘healthy’ food products, diet shakes and protein powders and
discovered the majority of them were simply milk powders and sugars. “We thought there must be a natural, healthier and purer way to get the nutrition we needed, so the idea for Purition - ‘pure nutrition’ - was born.” This wholefood supplement is perfect for anyone looking to mix up their smoothies and shakes. Boasting natural ingredients, the Purition team chop, mix, grind and pack all products in-house. And the benefits are real. As nutritionist Kate Bevan Wood explains: “Purition’s high levels of omega 3 fatty acids from
NATU R A L HI GH The essential minerals Purition provides
POTASSIUM Helps regulate blood pressure, protects muscle strength and increases your energy levels
PHOSPHOROUS Responsible for the growth, repair and maintenance of our cells and tissues. Also plays an essential role in vitamin absorption
MAGNESIUM Required for healthy muscle and nerve function, and to regulate blood sugar and insulin levels to increase metabolism
January 2018 LA N CE September 2018BA BALANCE
flaxseed and chia are essential to reduce inflammation and support muscle synthesis, while fibre is found in coconut, apple pectin and psyllium husk and helps eliminate toxins and feed good gut bacteria.” This is reassuring to know as you knock back one of the delicious flavours, such as Macadamia & Vanilla, Vegan Chocolate or Strawberry, to name just three. What’s more, Purition is surprisingly versatile and can be added to yoghurt, overnight oats, porridge, protein balls and roast lamb. OK, we might have made that last one up. And, because you can make it in just 30 seconds, it’s ideal for frantic and frazzled mornings. Enjoy a serving of Purition for breakfast, and it’ll keep you going until lunch. For more information, visit purition.co.uk. Available at Boots, WholeFoods, Planet Organic, Fresh and As Nature Intended
EASTERN PROMISE
A C R E AT I V E
SINGAPORE L AKSA
Spice up mundane evening fayre
Serves 2
Ask the Chef
Ready-made solution HelloFresh head chef and co-founder Patrick Drake finds the answers to all your problems – with food
WORDS: PATRICK DRAKE. PHOTOGRAPHY: DEBBIE BRAGG RECIPE PHOTOGRAPHY: JASON INGRAM
Q
‘I’ve got into a rut, cooking the same boring dishes. What advice do you have for a relative novice to get a bit more creative in the kitchen?’ Ava, Clapham You thought you were asking a question about cooking, but let’s take a look into on human psychology and the tyranny of choice. Picture the scene: it’s Wednesday night. You walk into the supermarket, where unlimited food combinations lay at your feet. What do you buy? A ready-made lasagna, because Wednesday is “lasagna Wednesday”. Similarly, I wandered into
a popular London juice place and was faced with so many choices, my brain almost melted. I ended up going next door for a cup of builder’s tea. Too much choice makes decision making and innovation harder, and our brain automatically falls back on default patterns to make our lives easier. My solution is “The Creative Funnel” (a phrase I just made up). With this, you start big and work your way down. First off, choose a region that tickles your taste buds (say, the Far East). Next, pick a country that intrigues you (Singapore). Now, think of one ingredient you want at the centre of your dinner
(peanut butter). Then throw in a couple more filters: hot or cold? Meat or vegetarian? Once you’ve got your criteria, what’s next? Google. Stick your search terms in and I guarantee there’ll be a recipe for even the weirdest flavour combo. Alternatively if you don’t have time for all that, give my airport-inspired Laksa a whirl… B
Win two HelloFresh boxes
Email or tweet your queries for Patrick to hello@balance. media or @BalanceLDN. If your conundrum is chosen, you could win two free boxes from HelloFresh. Follow Patrick on Instagram @patrickdrakechef
Ingredients • 2 spring onions, ½ cm discs • 1 clove garlic, finely chopped • 1tbsp ginger, peeled and chopped • 3 tbsps fresh coriander, finely chopped • 1tbsp red curry paste • 400ml coconut milk • 1 chicken stock pot • ½ - 1tsp fish sauce • 2 dried kaffir lime leaves • 1½ tbsp crunchy peanut butter • 1 lime, zest and juice • 4 skinless, boneless chicken thighs • 2 nests medium egg noodles • A pinch of red chilli flakes • A handful of beansprouts 1 Prep the spring onions (keep the green parts for garnish), garlic, ginger, coriander and zest your lime. 2 Heat 1 tbsp of oil on medium heat. Add the garlic, ginger and spring onion and after 1 minute stir in the red curry paste. After another minute add the coconut milk and stir until smooth. Pop in the chicken stock pot and fish sauce with 200ml of water, bring to a simmer, then add the kaffir lime leaf and peanut butter. Leave to simmer on a medium-low heat.
3 Season the chicken thighs and heat 1 tbsp of olive oil on a medium-high heat. Brown the chicken on each side and add to the Laksa. Pop a lid on and gently poach for 5 minutes.
4 When the chicken is nearly done, add the noodles with 200ml more water. Cook until soft, add the zest and half the juice. 5 Serve the Laksa in bowls topped with the chicken (cut in ½cm strips), greens of the spring onion and coriander, along with any other toppings you love. Recipes That Work by Patrick Drake (Octopus Books, £20) is out now
PAT R I C K
ADDS SOME FLAVOUR
BUY THE BOOK
MAP IT ALL OUT
MAKE A COMMITMENT
Check out The Flavour Thesaurus. All the restaurants I’ve worked in had a copy
Pull up a world map on your computer, close your eyes and point. That’s your cuisine theme for tonight
Use one new ingredient each week and by the end of a year, you’ll be amazed at your progress
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From humpbacks at sunrise to bathing at a brewery,Lizzie Pook reveals just why north Iceland might be remote, but it’s a pocket of pure paradise, health and happiness ith my nose pressed up to the car window, I see something magnificent unfurling in the darkness. Milky shafts of light stretch across the blackened sky, undulating and curling like silvery skeins of seaweed. Feverish with excitement, we pull over and barrel out. Eyes thrust upwards, we gaze in amazement, paying little heed to the sub-zero temperatures nipping at our cheeks, as a light show erupts, growing more elaborate by the second. As I shiver, huge strobes of greenish light shimmer, then pull together to dance like smoke from a cauldron. Feathery plumes of greyish-green reach far across the horizon, their movement the magnetic beckoning of long, witchy fingers against a blanket of stars. It’s a good thing it’s pitch black round here, as I furtively wipe quiet tears of joy away from my eyes.
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WHALES OF A TIME North Iceland is a wonderfully ghoulish place: a land of tiny fishing towns, petrified trolls and
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craggy, lunar-esque landscapes. But given Icelanders have one of the longest lifeexpectancies on Earth, and constantly top the charts of the world’s happiest nations, it’s becoming a surprising wellness destination, too; somewhere to hop on a husky-sled, watch the northern lights and wallow in a bathtub of beer, all in a single afternoon. The morning arrives with a road-trip and a wash of pink over the mountains of Akureyri – Iceland’s second-most populous town at the base of Eyjafjörður Fjord. We’re on our way to Hauganes, a tiny smattering of houses making up a salt-soaked fishing village that clings to the coast of the northwest fjords, to take a traditional wooden sailing boat in search of whales. It’s cold (in 2013, temperatures plummeted to -31°C), and the sleet stings our faces. But we’re rewarded when two humpbacks leap clear of the water in unison – their skin glinting in the morning sun – before disappearing into the depths. Minutes
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later, a huge sigh – like a dinosaur collapsing with exhaustion – announces the flukes and tails of the colossal beasts breaking the surface, diving back under with little more than a whisper.
YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT
Booking info Superbreak offers a four-night trip to North Iceland from £749 per person. Prices include return flights and some activities. Accommodation across north Iceland includes Hotel Nordurland by Kea Hotels, Fosshotel Mývatn and Sigló Hotel. For more information, visit Superbreak.com
The raw, natural beauty of northern Iceland ensures endless inspiration
Elvar Reykjalin – owner of one of Iceland’s most successful cod-salting factories – looks alarmingly youthful, belying his six decades. This, he says, is down to a unique mixture of “Schnapps, cod liver oil and fermented shark.” Indeed, Reykjalin has titled himself President of the ‘Rotten Shark Club’ of north Iceland, and his eagerness for the meat is infectious. That’s how I find myself ingesting the most repellent morsel that has ever passed my lips. Kept in a box for two months and suspended for six weeks to cure, to top things off, sharks have no kidneys, so it’s saturated in urine. I shut my eyes and hurl the cube of meat to the back of my throat, chewing ferociously to make the pungent taste of rotten, smoky cheese and ammonia disappear. I look up to see Elvar holding his hand ready for a high five. “Pass me the schnapps,” I groan, before downing enough to make my eyes stream. Luckily, not all the food is so unpalatable, with some of the most delicious fresh produce you can get your hands on: farm-fresh beef, tender smoked salmon, salted cod and crisp Icelandic potatoes. The beer is so good, you can even bathe in it – which is exactly what I do at the Beer Spa at Árskógssandur. Private wooden tubs are filled with gallons of young beer, yeast, hops, oil and salt, then warmed with hot water before you soak naked in B vitamins and magnesium. I was sceptical, but my skin was curiously smooth afterwards and I felt quite relaxed. The fact you can drink the beer as you bathe may have had something to do with it.
NORT HERN
( H I G H ) L I G HT S
E-FISHENT DAY TRIPS
This cod salting factory is full of fascinating stories and like Elvar (above) and myself, you can even indulge in the infamous joy of fermented shark. If you dare… ektafiskur.is
HAVE A SKINFUL
Good for skin, nails, hair and (naturally) booze lovers, a dip in the hops-filled bathtubs at Árskógssandur’s unique beer spa will leave you smooth and smug bjorbodin.is
A LAND OF FIRE AND ICE The best way to appreciate north Iceland is to get out into the open air. From our bases at Sigló (a tranquil hotel, filled with neutral palettes and pretty harbour views) and, after, the Fosshotel at Lake Mývatn (punctuated with copper accents and pine detailing), we fix crampons around our hiking boots and venture out into the snowy landscape. Ice crunches underfoot as we strike out across ancient lava fields washed away by catastrophic floods. We perch on clifftops to peer at roaring waterfalls, and pick our way round glittering icicles framing geothermal lakes and staggering mountain ranges, said to be inhabited by ghosts and trolls. As the sun goes down, we pull on romper suits and take to snowmobiles. As immense mountains and shield volcanoes rise in the distance, the landscape is eerily calm, even as the roars from our engines ring out into the distance. As the lucid moon shines bright in the pastel pink sky, a warmth blossoms in my belly and a huge grin spreads across my face. Yeah, I’d be happy if I lived here, too… B
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PRINCE OF WHALES
The fjords around Akureyri are brimming with humpbacks, orcas, blue and sei whales. On Whale Watching Hauganes’ carbonneutral wooden ship, you can even fish for cod, too whales.is
LAGOONA MATATA
The Mývatn Naturebaths’ geothermal lagoon might not be as famous as its Reykjavik counterparts, but it’s just as beautiful… and half as busy! myvatnnaturebaths.is
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BALANCE PROMOTION
Putting man’s best friends first Help your pet’s health flourish with Lintbells supplements
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elf-care is the latest wellness buzz-term, and if we’re being brutally honest, it’s very easy to think about No1. However, wouldn’t it be wonderful if we put others first? Especially if we have, say, a beloved pet dog. Take going to the doctor: one of the first things they’ll do is check your vitamin levels before recommending a supplement to either combat a specific problem or for general support. So it makes sense that we should do the same for our pet pooch. Thanks to Lintbells – purveyors of
premium quality, natural products – your dog can get supplements that are superior, complete and packed with ingredients necessary to keep pets happy and full of life. “There’s both science and love behind everything we do” says cofounder John Davies. “Ingredients are always the absolute best, recipes are tested and proven and we’re always on the lookout for ways to improve. “It’s a unique, committed approach that means we’re completely confident that your furry friend will look and feel better.” And it’s not just their quality
P E T PAR ADISE
Join the Lintbells Club for 25% off orders (and much more) at lintbells.com
that makes Lintbells a cut above, but the quantity of their products. There’s the YuMOVE range of natural joint supplements, which aid joint development, promote mobility and are ideal for your dog or cat that loves to run. The YuMEGA selection contains Omega 3 and 6 oils, proven to support coat condition and moulting. Chances are if you’ve ever stroked a dog and marvelled with quiet envy at their magnificent sheen, they’re a YuMEGA dog. And if your pet is a tad timid, YuCALM’s clever combination of scientifically proven ingredients support more placid behaviour. The all-natural, non-sedative tablets are suitable for short and long-term use, and target calming pathways in the brain to reduce stress and help your pet feel more happy and playful, so you can both get more out of life together.
To find out more, visit lintbells.com
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CULTURE ounter
September’s box of free time favourites has a whiff of ’80s nostalgia and noughties newness
sterling service Sterling K Brown was touching 40 when the big time beckoned. And the great thing is, at 42, he’s just getting started YOU’RE THE HOTTEST PERSON IN THE BUSINESS WE CALL SHOW RIGHT NOW… As someone who sat on the outside and looked at people who have ‘heat’, you always wonder, “What allows them to get to that position?” Now I realise, there’s nothing you’re doing, per se; it’s the stars lining up and giving you opportunities. I’ll take it. HOW DID YOU GO FROM THE OUTSIDER TO HAVING HEAT? The People Vs OJ Simpson caught the cultural zeitgeist. Before that I’d been a journeyman actor, going from guest spot to guest spot, but then I had an opportunity to shine. It was a win in every way you can imagine. Then to go into This Is Us… My agent said, “You know this doesn’t happen.” I said, “Dude. Trust me. No one is taking this for granted.”
Sterling K Brown has been nominated for two Emmys at the 2018 ceremony: Lead Actor in a Drama for This is Us, and Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his cameo in Brooklyn Nine-Nine episode, The Box
THE PREDATOR IS UP NEXT. WERE YOU A FAN OF THE ORIGINAL? I’m a child of the 80s, so to be in this movie is ridiculous. One actor I love is Bill Duke, who was in the original. The only thing Bill and I have in common as performers is we’re dark-skinned African American males, and as we have this trait in common, my friends say, “You’re going to get those Bill Duke roles when you blow up!” When I got cast in The Predator, they were like, “We told you!
WORDS: JAMES GILL
WHAT CAN YOU SAY ABOUT FROZEN 2? I can tell you they’re making it, with lots of vocal talent… and possibly me. There’s a new character they’re introducing that I might have an opportunity to play. When my seven-year-old saw the first film, all he wanted to do was play the first song [Sterling belts out a note-perfect rendition of Frozen Heart]. That was his joint because he’s such a boy. Hopefully if I get in this one and get a song, I’ll convince him to sing that instead.
The Predator is in cinemas from 12 September
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OUT AND ABOUT
Novel approach
WELLNESS
WANDERLUST 108
hits & misses by Simon Rich Writing “funny” is difficult, but short story specialist Simon Rich makes it look so easy. We caught up with the comedy genius... HOW DID YOU START OUT? I am a fan of comedy writers, such as Douglas Adams, PG Wodehouse and Evelyn Waugh and loved The Simpsons and sketch comedy. I wanted to emulate my heroes and write comedy and surreal genre-based fiction, like Stephen King or Ray Bradbury.
WHERE DOES YOUR INSPIRATION COME FROM? There’s an autobiographical aspect to my work and in terms of ideas, I read a lot of non-fiction about extreme, high-stake subjects, such as plagues, ancient emperors or Arctic exploration. AND YOU GOT TO WRITE A SIMPSONS EPISODE LAST YEAR! That fulfilled a long-held dream of mine. I got to go in to the famous Simpsons writers room and pitch ideas – and Matt Groening was in there! That was unbelievably intimidating…
ART
I’M STILL HERE
Hits & Misses by Simon Rich (£10.99, Serpent’s Tail)
THEATRE
Matthew Lopez’s barnstormer transfers to the West End, with Billy Elliot’s Stephen Daldry directing. 21 September5 January 2019, theinheritanceplay.com
MUSIC
BLACK EYED PEAS
SCANDI-NOIR
SCI-FI
MYSTERY
Superbad this ain’t, as Emma Stone and Jonah Hill’s outsiders are drawn to a pharmaceutical trial for a drug that heals the mind. On Netflix from 21 September
The cinematic equivalent of skiing with a blindfold on, this is as fun as it is terrifying, boasting a towering showing from Sterling K Brown. In cinemas from 12 September
Strap in for gothic terror, as Domhnall Gleeson’s doctor visits a manor where all is not as it seems. In cinemas from September 21
MANIAC
IMAGES: HM PRISON LITTLEHEY, SOAP CARVING, CARLA GULER
An exhibition of art by offenders, secure patients and detainees from the Koestler Trust, the UK’s top prison arts charity. 19 September–4 November, southbankcentre.co.uk
THE INHERITANCE
screen time
WHERE DO YOU BEGIN WITH A SHORT STORY? Typically, I come up with the basic premise first. Occasionally, I’ll start with the character because with my stories, there’s often a
Head to Battersea Park for a signature triathlon, which includes a 5k run (or, indeed, walk), DJ-powered yoga class and guided meditation. 15 September, wanderlust.com
thin line between character and premise. Sometimes, I’ll try a few angles before I get it right.
THE PREDATOR
THE LITTLE STRANGER
The pioneers of positive pop roar back to mark 20 years of the original line-up with some darker new tracks. 27-28 October, Eventim Apollo, livenation.co.uk
COMEDY
KATHERINE RYAN: GLITTER ROOM
G RISIN STAR
Since she set up her YouTube channel in May 2012, Emma has amassed 1.5 million subscribers
Emma Blackery X MARKS THE SLOT
Adverts have helped launched many a career (Peter Kay was ‘just’ a cult favourite before shouting “‘Ave it” in 2002), and unsigned singer Emma Blackery enjoyed a similar bump after Apple used her single cover art for the iPhone X launch.“I was at home falling asleep when I got the news, but in terms of family and friends – which is what truly matters – nothing’s changed at all.” See what all the fuss is about at KOKO on 25 October. Tickets are available at emmablackery.com
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The whip-smart Canuck is a special talent, given she can be the queen of mean, while remaining so utterly charming. 17-29 September, Garrick Theatre, livenation.co.uk
WELLBEING
PARADISE NOW Developed by Bompas & Parr, this ‘wellbeing playground’ offers a glimpse of the new horizons of health. Until 15 September, ecclestonyards.com
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GOOD LOOKS
Trends with benefits
Skincare has become philanthropic, thanks to these charitable beauty brands
words by R E B E CC A G IL L A M
MAKE A POIN T
The UK beauty industry is worth £17bn annually. Women aged 1834 are the largest spenders, buying on average 10+ products per year*
photography by W IL L I R E L A N D
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Paying lip service
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*SOURCE: THOUGHTSHIFT.CO.UK
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1. THE LIGHT FANTASTIC
2. FANTASY ISLAND
3. REDDY FOR ANYTHING
4. SOAPER STARS
5. BEE THERE FOR THE LONG TERM
6. FIRST RESERVE
7. WAKE-UP CALL
Herbivore Prism Exfoliating Glow Potion This highly-hyped serum (thanks to the buzz around fruit acid) is an industry icon. Natural, vegan and cruelty-free, for each one sold, $1 goes to the Trans Women Of Color Collective. £52 for 30ml, spacenk.com
Rahua Enchanted Island Salt Spray A brand originating in the Amazon rainforest, this spray benefits from sustainably sourced rahua oil, produced by the QuechuaShuar tribe. Every purchase supports the environmental work of The Pink Flamingos Project. £32 for 124ml, rahua.com
Axiology Lipstick Made with coconut oil and avocado butter, this natural, vegan formula is free from palm oil and cochineal dye (ground up beetle). Axiology also contributes to the Orangutan Foundation and PETA. £24 for 4g, gloworganic brighton.co.uk
Soap Co. Rose Bath Oil Handcrafted by people who are visually impaired, disabled or disadvantaged, this oil contains 10 natural and botanical extracts to help melt away tension and stress at the end of a long day. £22 for 100ml, thesoapco.org
Burt’s Bees BBTB Strawberry Lip Balm The choice between scent and shade just got simpler. For every Strawberry #BringBackTheBees Lip Balm sold, 5,000 bee-friendly wildflower seeds are planted in partnership with the British Beekeepers Association. £3.99 for 4.25g, burtsbees.co.uk
Clean Reserve Scent Prioritising eco credentials, the brand’s top focus is sustainability, delivered through its ‘field to fragrance’ ethos, with 100% recycled packaging and solar-powered production processes. £82 for 100ml, cultbeauty.co.uk
Aveda Tulasara Radiant Awakening Ritual Encourages healthy skin through microcirculationboosting massage, with the naturally derived oil and brush made from recycled resin. Pick it up next month, to support Breast Cancer Awareness. £65 for 50ml, aveda.co.uk
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SCRUBS UP WELL
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Most people can’t go without a morning cup of joe, but it’s not just your body it refreshes. Salvage your skin with a caffeine boost
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e consume 95 million cups of coffee per day in the UK, but the dark side to our latte lives is three billion disposable cups per year, of which a negligible proportion is recycled. That was partially solved by re-useable cups, but they don’t automatically make your daily grind zero waste. Cosmetic scientist Monty Ashley-Craig started sustainable beauty brand MONTAMONTA, making small batches of hand wash and balms for East London bars and restaurants, including Ozone Coffee. “I discovered spent grounds are a great exfoliant,” says Monty. “Now, we source used grounds from coffee shops and restaurants close to our lab, to utilise materials that would usually go to waste.” Monty mixes the organic coffee grounds with coconut and sweet almond oils, natural sea salt, vitamin E and botanical extracts such as sage, lemongrass and grapefruit, to create natural body scrubs.
Grounds for improvement
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.
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FACE THE FACTS For their Cup O’ Coffee face and body mask, Lush use organic, rain-fed Fairtrade coffee from a cooperative in Tanzania. From this, they make a cold coffee infusion and blend it with organic agave syrup, roasted cocoa extract and vanilla. You’d be forgiven for wanting to eat it. Beyond its exfoliating properties, coffee has other beauty benefits. According to top facialist Su-Man Hsu, it “contains multiple antioxidants to neutralise free radicals and prevent stress; reduces water retention, cellulite and redness; removes dead cells, brightens the skin and gives it a glow.” Su-Man would know: her coffee-fuelled Exfoliating Facial Polish is like an espresso shot for the face. “Caffeine has the ability to drain excess fluid from tissue, so when you apply it, it gives your skin an instant lift and firm feeling,” she says. Of course, it’s easy (and a lot cheaper) to make your own coffee-centric beauty
Instant
saviour
1. Raw Cacao & Coffee Sugar Scrub, £24 for 350g sisterandcoskinfood. co.uk 2. Sage + Coffee Body Scrub, £17 for 200g montamonta.com 3. Cup O’ Coffee Face and Body Mask, £7.25 for 150g uk.lush.com 4. Exfoliating Facial Polish, £40 for 125ml su-man.com 5. Polishing Natural Exfoliating Scrub, £44 for 200ml aromatherapy associates.com
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products. Aussie-based Rocket scientist, and author of A Zero Waste Life, Anita Vandyke, has a simple recipe for a homemade scrub: mix 225g of coffee grounds with 125ml of olive oil and five tbsp of coconut oil. This should last up to two months. Anita also suggests making it in larger batches for gifting – so you get smooth skin and get ahead with festive prep at the same time. B
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How to appreciate art by Laura-Jane Foley
PLACES TO GET STARTED
TATE BRITAIN Opened in 1897, large, airy galleries display works from the 1500’s to today, with many you’ll recognise. Admission is free
A BIT ABOUT ME I’ve been very lucky that I’ve had a very varied career in the arts. I’m a writer, art historian and musician and have launched my own podcast, My Favourite Work of Art. So, if you’ve ever wanted to develop a richer appreciation of art, I’ll endeavour to help.
ALL ABOUT CONFIDENCE When my young daughter comes with me to a gallery and looks at an artwork, her interpretations are as worthy as mine. Art is about emotions and that immediate reaction to something, but the problem is people are worried about all the gumpf surrounding it, of not understanding it and saying the wrong thing. The truth is, you can’t say the wrong thing.
FIND FAVOURITES On My Favourite Work of Art, I’ve spoken with author Bell Mooney about an artwork called The Virgin and Child in Glory by Spanish artist Murillo. Bell first encountered it as a young child, and keeps going
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back because it gives her peace and serenity. If you find something you like, keep going back. It’s not a bad thing to re-visit artwork because you’ll take something different from each viewing.
(DON’T) TAKE YOUR TIME You don’t have to spend that long in front of an artwork – usually between 30 seconds to a minute. Don’t worry if you don’t feel anything for a very grand, rarified, abstract and specialist artwork, full of meaning. You can like something just because it’s pretty – that’s OK. And you can make the connections for yourself; just because an art historian said something doesn’t make it true.
ANGLE DELIGHT Look at art from different angles and you’ll get a different sense of it. Why not look at how other people are looking at the artwork? If it’s a painting, the artist would have looked at it from every viewpoint in the studio. Moving around the room and engaging from different perspectives, how you would with an installation or sculpture, can be done with paintings, too. B
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Dr Laura-Jane Foley is the presenter of the podcast My Favourite Work of Art. acast.com/ myfavourite workofart
Two galleries in Hyde Park opened in 1970 to showcase contemporary art. Visit to discover artists who aren’t household names
AUCTION HOUSES Christie’s and Sotheby’s hold public viewing days before major auctions, which is a great opportunity to see works by major artists normally held in private collections
The outcome
If you’re feeling joyous, art can reflect your joy; if you’re feeling fear or upset, art can lift you up. It can bring you comfort, challenge you and enhance your life in many ways. Don’t feel fear in front of an artwork; it can only enrich your life
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