Wirral Well-Being Spring 2023

The Old Garden is a purpose-built luxury residential and nursing care home that provides premium comfort to all its residents

The Old Garden combines the best of modern design and technology with a little piece of Hoylake history. Created from Lord Stanley’s old hunting lodge, the bespoke residence has been designed with every consideration given to the ultimate comfort, with huge emphasis on luxury living in a real home-from-home setting.

The Old Garden, 4 Meols Drive, Hoylake, Wirral CH47 4AQ

Laura Seymour Edit or/creator

With the official arrival of spring upon us, its feels great to finally shed some layers and prepare to partake in some springtime activities. That weekend bike ride, getting back into the gym and readying our summer bodies, a run or simply a walk in the park.

Outdoor Physical activity is does wonders for both and mental and physical well- being, so I encourage readers to get out more and get that blood pumping.

Know your five steps of wellbeing…

Connect

Spending time with people around you, family, friends, colleagues, neighbours. These relationships and spending time developing them are your cornerstones. Building these connections will support and enrich your life. Surround yourself with people who support you and make you feel good.

Be active.

Walk, run, cycle, play a game, garden, dance (even in your bedroom or to the radio when no one is watching, I do it all the time) Bop while you mop exercising makes us feel good releasing endorphins. Discover an activity that you enjoy that suits your own level of mobility and fitness.

Be Mindful

Take notice! Of your surroundings, look for the beauty in things, Savour the moment, really feel that sun on your face, that hot shower on your skin, take in vibrant colours. Reflecting on experiences can help us appreciate what really matters.

Keep Learning

Don’t be afraid to try something new. Rediscover and old hobby or sign up for something new, something you have always fancied. Learning new things will make you more confident as well as being fun.

Give

Do something nice for a friend or a stranger, Thanks someone, smile, give a genuine compliment, volunteer. Look out and well as in. Creating and seeing yourself and others happy especially linked to a wider community is incredibly rewarding and helps create connection. This spring 2023 issue has some fantastic stories, tips and advice on treatments, therapy, activities, and ways to support our wellness. From time spent with friend and family, exercise, health, self-care, it’s important to look out for ourselves and each other.

Last but certainly not least we are delighted to welcome our new sponsor to Wirral Well- Being Magazine and to the Wirral Gregory Abrams Davidson solicitors (GAD) We are both excited and delighted to have you on board.

Laura x

Mindful Moments

When my best friend returned from India with a sandalwood pen holder, I fell in love with its exotic fragrance, only to learn later of its calming properties.

It was the perfect choice when we commissioned this gorgeous candle. A fusion of sandalwood, amber and a hint of mandarin, hand made from natural soy wax using only the very best fragrance oils.

Gift boxed with FREE Wirral delivery, it’s the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. £15

For all enquires advertising and editorial Tel: 07505 145614

Email: wirralwellbeingmagazine@gmail.com

Contact numbers: Digital Edition: www.wirralwell-being.co.uk

EMOTIONAL WELLNESS

Emotional wellness or well-being refers to the awareness and understanding a person has about their emotions and how well they are able to manage through different life events.

Emotional well-being, or emotional health or wellness, refers to how well people can accept and manage their emotions and cope with challenges throughout life. Emotional well-being can affect how well someone can function day to day or how they are able to deal with change or uncertainty.

Difficulties in emotional well-being may have a negative effect on a person’s mental and physical health. This article looks at emotional well-being, what factors can affect it, signs someone may be experiencing difficulties with emotional well-being, and tips to improve it. The National centre for emotional wellness describes emotional wellness or well-being as an awareness, understanding, and acceptance of feelings and an ability to manage effectively through times of change or challenge.

Uncomfortable or painful emotions and overwhelming thoughts can affect how well individuals function and may make people feel they are losing control of their lives. By gaining awareness of the emotions each person feels and how to process them, people can regain a feeling of control, minimize difficulties, and continue to function healthily.

Why is emotional well-being important?

Emotional well-being is important because it can affect how people function and carry out everyday tasks. It can also affect how well individuals are able to handle stressful situations and challenges, how they adapt to change, and how they respond to difficult life events. Emotional well-being can affect relationships, work, and overall mental and physical health.

Issues with emotional well-being can also affect physical health and to higher blood pressure, a weakened immune system, and increased illness.

Factors that can influence emotional well-being may include:

• challenges with work, school, relationships, or home life

• changes in health

• changes in relationships

• retirement, which can affect social circles or sense of purpose

• losing loved ones

• moving away from family and friends

In children and adolescents

A child’s emotional well-being is equally as important as their physical health. When a child is mentally healthy it can help to

• reach developmental milestones

• learn healthy social skills

• learn how to cope when problems arise

• have a positive quality of life

• function at home and in school

• reach emotional milestones

Emotional well-being issues in children can lead to problems in school, at home, and in their ability to form relationships.

Tips to improve emotional well-being in children and adolescents.

• be there to listen.

• regularly ask them about how they feel.

• stay involved in their life and show an interest in what they find important.

• support them through difficulties and help them work through it.

• encourage their interests.

• build positive routines.

• take what they say seriously.

If a parent or caregiver has concerns about a child’s emotional well-being, they may find it beneficial to speak with their teacher, doctor, or other healthcare professional. Getting older does not directly influence quality of life, but emotional health difficulties can reduce it.The changes with getting older may affect health, social relationships, or sense of purpose, which may all affect emotional wellbeing. In turn, this may have a negative effect on physical health.

Philip Morrison has provided Life Transformational Dentures for over 20 years

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Philip Morrison BSc Dip CDT RCS Eng was introduced to dentistry as a child in his father’s dental clinic and went on to gain over 20 years of experience as a dental technician. A graduate of Manchester University, Philip continued his education and became a Clinical Dental Technician with the Royal College of Surgeons England. He has extensive hands on experience in Ivoclar™ dentures, dentures over implants, as well as Straumann™ Platinum Technician status. Philip has earned a reputation for creating high quality dentures while providing clients with compassionate and gentle care. His greatest joy comes from seeing the new confident, genuine smiles on his clients’ faces.

If you would like your new dentures to replicate all the favourable aspects of your existing Dentures, then a Clinical Dental Technician can help you. From copying exact tooth position and shape, to improving the way they fit with your

Dental Solutions Denture Clinic has become synonymous with providing the very best in denture care and quality in its warm and inviting environment. Located in the heart of the Wirral, the Clinic focuses on personal, one-on-one care, creating a unique approach to each patient’s needs and desires.

Do you want the confidence of a natural smile?

Dental Solutions Denture Clinic offers a variety of dentures to meet your needs, including full, partial and immediate dentures. We use premium quality materials and expert craftsmanship to ensure a unique and perfect fit, never compromising on comfort or aesthetics.

Our patients tell us their confidence has been restored due to our professional approach, caring attitude, and attention to detail. We look forward to meeting you soon and beginning your journey towards a new smile.

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The preferred method of tooth replacement is the dental implant, due to its unparalleled stability and long-term patient satisfaction. Implants are truly a cut above conventional denture treatments, and many patients who have chosen this option report they are happy and comfortable for the first time since the loss of their natural teeth.

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Benefits of Implant Retained Dentures

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Pam – Wirral Implant Retained Denture

THE BENEFITS OF ALOE VERA

Aloe Vera is a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins that can help improve your health and well-being. The important components within the leaf of Aloe Vera have also been shown to neutralise the effects of ultraviolet radiation to repair your skin from existing UV damage and help prevent fine lines and wrinkles.

Aloe Vera is widely known to relieve sunburn and help heal wounds, but did you know that your favourite potted plant can be used for much more than sunburn relief and household décor?

Aloe Vera has a long history of being used for medical purposes dating back to ancient Egypt times. The plant is native to North Africa, South Europe and the Canary Islands. Today Aloe Vera is grown in tropical climates worldwide. From relieving heartburn and improving gut health to potentially preventing cancers, researchers are only just beginning to unlock the benefits of this universal plant and its many by-products. The inner leaf gel of Aloe Vera leaves contains the most beneficial active components in the plant including vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants. Antioxidants are important for health. They belong to a large family of substances known as polyphenols. These polyphenols along with several other components in Aloe Vera help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria that can cause infections in humans.

Aloe works on surfaces and membranes rather than solid organs ,especially on damaged skin and an inflamed bowel .This is part of why it may help heal wounds and treat skin problems. It has long been used to treat sores, burns and sunburn. Did you know the Aloe Vera is also an effective way of killing dental plaque? Look out for a mouth wash containing it next time you shop. Why not give it a try? Recent studies have also shown that it helps treat cancer sores usually found underneath the lip inside the mouth. Studies show that not only does rubbing gel on these ulcers not only did it accelerate the healing, but it also reduced the pain. Aloe Vera may also help treat constipation. This time it is the latex not the gel that provides the benefits. The latex is a sticky yellow residue present under the skin of the leaf the key compound is responsible for this effect. This is called aloin or barbaloin which has the natural laxative effect. It is said that Aloe Vera can used to improve skin and prevent wrinkles, there is some preliminary evidence to suggest that tropical Aloe Vera gel can slow ageing of the skin. It is widely used to treat acne, eczema and psoriasis. Many people use Aloe Vera as a remedy for diabetes because it may enhance insulin sensitivity and help improve blood sugar management. Aloe Vera comes in various creams, gels, juices, ointment, capsules or directly from the plant. Why not check out the benefits for yourself.

www.sheilapatel.myforever.biz/personal-website/

WHAT IS OOMOO?

OOMOO is an Open Door Project that reimagines what emotional wellbeing support can and should be for young people looked after on Wirral. OOMOO supports its members to shape change within their own lives by providing creative wellbeing classes, therapeutic offers, peer support and shared experience. OOMOO supports young people aged 11-18 and is based in Birkenhead.

The album titled ‘Talking Through The Music’ by OOMOO aims to amplify the voices of young people currently in the care system on Wirral. Through this album, OOMOO hopes to provide an opportunity for young people looked after on the Wirral to shape change in their own lives. Our OOMOO artists weren’t given a briefing – rather all their songs, from their lyrics to the melodies, stemmed organically from their interests and lived experiences. Our OOMOO artists explore a range of themes from growing up and living in care, falling in love, to pondering what time and space is.

Interview:

How did it all start?

A: It started with the ambition to make the best album.

Were you interested in music before the OOMOO Album?

R: Without a doubt. I always wanted to produce music. I think having the Sound Ideas sessions with OOMOO has been very helpful at maintaining the passion and keeping it alive.

A: Yeah, I wanted to have like an album and become a singer when I was older.

L: Not really. I saw Zuzu at Future Yard and she really sparked my interest in music. I sent my song to Zuzu and she said she liked it!

Can you describe your writing process?

H: I wanted to make relaxation music so if people are busy they can click on the internet to listen to it and have some relaxation time.

A: I was just fascinated by time – it had just gone to my head!

S: I started writing song lyrics by taking words out of magazines and making them into lyrics. We then recorded it and added stuff in the background to make an actual song.

How was it recording at Future Yard?

R: I’ve always wanted to go into a studio so when we got the chance to record at Future Yard it was cool. I think, in my opinion, going to Future Yard started the whole…”Oh this could potentially become a career!” kinda theme, and let’s hope it does.

What was the album launch like?

S: It was at the Bloom Building which was fun. I didn’t go

on stage as it was kinda nerve-wracking.

R: Although it was very embarrassing and very nerve-wracking I feel like I definitely got to a point where I just didn’t care. There’s gonna be people who don’t like my music and there’s gonna be people who do, so I just kinda stuck with that positive mindset. I performed two of my songs at the album launch and then ended up airdropping them to everyone at the end.

What was it like when you first saw your music on Spotify?

L: I just screamed!!!

R: I was excited but there was also a gut question of “Will people actually like this?”. Turns out they did – especially ‘Let Me In’. I actually walked into the library today in school and ended up seeing about 15 of my mates singing it! What more could you ask for? *laughs*

Has making music helped your life outside of OOMOO?

R: It’s definitely boosted my self-esteem and confidence loads. I’ve kinda grown, just matured really and with it my writing has improved. I’ve always seen music as an outlet for stress or sadness or pretty much any negative feeling. I kinda use music as a way to escape. I feel that being able to do what I love and with OOMOO there’s pretty much no stress involved. I mean don’t get me wrong, when it comes to recording days I’m “Oh shaky hands, get me a can of coke!”. But I think music has helped me out quite a lot and having the chance to actually do it to a high standard.

S: Making music has helped me think a bit differently and take a different approach to things outside of OOMOO. I showed my song to one of my mates and they said it didn’t sound like me! My nan was quite proud and shocked I think as well.

What’s next for you and music?

S: Hopefully another song but I want to use a ukulele for the tune. In the future I want to go to a dance and performing arts college.

L: I’m thinking we could do a whole OOMOO song together!

H: I want to make more music so people can listen to it and relax.

R: I want to perform at Glastonbury. And Reading and Leeds. Next year though? Hopefully if I gain traction it would be a good career path for me and there would be a lot of things coming up. Like potentially an album.

Contact Details:

To make a referral or learn more about OOMOO you can visit oomoo-wirral.co.uk

If you have any questions or enquiries, you can reach Team OOMOO on 07565 479 659 hello@oomoo-wirral.co.uk

ADVANCED MASSAGE TECHNOLOGY FOR GREATER HEALTH AND WELLBEING

squeezed. Or when you have your blood pressure taken, but all over. Gently inflating with air the body ballancer creates a full body bear hug that boost lymphatic flow which clears toxins and speeds up muscle repair. Pleasantly relaxing everything seems lighter and like you have had a good massage.

So if you are looking to try something new Slip into Body Ballancer’s patented inflating compression garments, lie back and enjoy a wonderfully relaxing or invigorating massage.

Yes I know it looks a little out of the ordinary but I have to be honest I just loved this revolutionary treatment the Body Ballancer from Revitalaser in Heswall. It creates better health and wellbeing through advanced lymphatic massage compression technology and the benefits are incredible

• Natural detoxing

• Improves immune system

• Reduces bloating

• Better digestion and gut health

• Reduces stress

• Improves sleep quality

• Inch loss

• Firmer skin

• Improves cellulite

• Improves circulation

• Anti aging

• Faster muscle recovery

• Improved skin tone

Topped off with a collagen facial as special offer extra I really did feel spoilt.

It feels like you are a tube of toothpaste being slightly

The Body Ballancer® uses patent protected inflating compression garments to apply a gentle or firm massage. Each garment contains 24 individual air chambers that overlap to apply fluent compression strokes that target every inch of the treated area.

This massage motion, with its specific direction of flow from the base of the limb to the torso, increases circulation and gently but thoroughly decongests the problem areas of hips, thighs, buttocks (Ballancer® pants) and upper arms (Ballancer® jacket).

The Body Ballancer® action accelerates the removal of waste products and excess fluid via the lymphatic system, reducing the appearance of cellulite, improving skin tone, and reducing volume in areas affected by excess fluid retention whilst its gentle, rhythmic action promotes relaxation whilst boosting immune system function.

Don’t ignore your lymphatic system! A compromised lymphatic system can lead to poor skin tone, excess weight, cellulite, headaches fatigue and more health issues. If you are feeling run down why don’t you pop yourself into the body balancer massage suit and feel it rev up your lymphatic system. It will help to alleviate stress, boost your immune system and improve your sleep.

Sound like heaven get in touch with Andrea from Revitalaser and she will tell you all about her amazing offers. 0151 342 2409

NEW FIRM OF SOLICITORS JOINS THE LOCAL HIGH STREET

Leading Law Firm Gregory Abrams Davidson Solicitors officially opened the doors of its new offices at 19-25 The Crescent, West Kirby on the 1st March.

The Firm offers a full range of legal services including Conveyancing, Medical Negligence and Personal Injury, Wills, LPA`s and Probate, Litigation and Business law through their commercial arm of the business - GAD Commercial.

Gregory Abrams Davidson Solicitors or GAD as they are locally known, have been established over 40 years and pride themselves on their reputation for delivering, fast, efficient, professional and practical legal advice and friendly service.

GAD`s 98% client satisfaction rating makes it is easy to see why their clients keep returning for their legal needs, building trusted and valued relationships with their solicitors.

Gregory Abrams, CEO, is excited to be joining the Wirral business community and getting to know local businesses which he believes are the lifeblood of the high street. He played a major role in the ongoing renaissance of Liverpool - he was one of several prominent figures who promoted the regeneration of Mathew Street and created the Cavern Quarter Initiative which was a blueprint, driving the regeneration of the centre of Liverpool.

Gregory comments, ‘I am delighted that we are able to offer our services in the

Wirral and to North Wales. Being part of the local business community is important and working together helps to build the local economy.’

The Firm will be incorporating renowned local Solicitor Ian C Free who has been established in West Kirby for over 30 years. Ian, who specialises in Residential and Commercial Property, is Consultant Solicitor at the branch said ` It is a pleasure to be joining a North West Firm with a great reputation, not just locally but nationally too. I am delighted that my staff have joined me in new offices. Our clients will benefit from GAD`s new technology infrastructure and their complement of experienced solicitors who will bring their wealth of knowledge to West Kirby not just in conveyancing but also other areas of law’.

For more information about Gregory Abrams Davidson Solicitors visit www.gadlegal.co.uk or call into our new branch at the Upper Floors, 1925 The Crescent, West Kirby or call 0151 625 0000.

"I am delighted that we are able to offer our services in the Wirral and to North Wales. Being part of the local business community is important and working together helps to build the local economy."

Pictured left: Gregory Abrams

MEAN-EYED CAT

COME IN AND SIN

Mean-Eyed Cat is a Deep South-inspired dive bar and home of the legendary Roll the Dice game. Roll a six and get your round for FREE.

A little rebellious and a lot raucous, they are an ode to the rock ‘n’ roll legend Johnny Cash. Causing trouble in Leeds since they were anti-established in 2015 now here in Liverpool.

Mean-Eyed Cat Bar, based in the busy and popular Seel Street area of Liverpool city centre officially launched on the 24th February. What fun and exciting venue! The brands famous fresh pizza on the house till 9pm blew me away, the best I have tasted in a long while. The cocktails were delicious, and I must say I can highly recommend the rum runner with cowboy hat on the side. With a checky photo booth for making memories and attentive staff this venue delivered for me. The live entertainment was fresh energetic and authentic and there are some hidden surprises if you are lucky enough to be invited into the hidden bar. Wow!

But don’t just take my word for it come along and taste the southern hospitality for yourself I guarantee you won’t be disappointed this venue brings its own flavour into the mix. www.meaneyedcatbar.co.uk

71 Seel St Liverpool L1 4AZ

Rites for Girls CIC mission is to change the world, one girl at a time. The organisation was founded in 2010 by Kim McCabe, following decades of experience counselling distressed teenagers. Rites for Girls Facilitators mentor girls safely through adolescence, aiming to make growing up for girls kinder, safer and better supported.

Girls’ levels of self-esteem and wellbeing drop in their early teens, with the numbers of girls self-harming and suffering from clinical depression prior to the pandemic1 increasing from 1 in 4 to almost 1 in 3, with a notable increase between the ages of 14 and 172. To try to prevent this, we work with girls at ages 10-12 over a year, supported closely by their mothers and wider community, as they are encouraged to find older female mentors who they can turn to in times of challenge and change. By working in this way, we aim to help girls fulfil their potential by supporting them to make healthy choices through their teens and prevent these rising rates of self-harm and poor mental health.

Rites for Girls Facilitator, Lisa James, offers in-person and online programmes in our local community. She said, ‘Many girls are struggling, even more so since Covid. They feel the pressure to do well at school, look good, stay connected on social media, get on with their families and fit in with peers. They have so much to deal with and understandably, many are showing signs of not coping.’ Girls Journeying Together is Rites for Girls’ main programme. These groups offer a year of in-person monthly support for preteen girls as they practise being true to themselves, learn about puberty, share their hopes and fears, and help each other into their teens. We support girls to emerge from adolescence stronger than they went in, working to prevent the high rates of self-harm and low esteem. Topics explored include friendships, peer pressure, social media influences, concepts of beauty whilst developing a whole range of valuable personal skills. Every girl is encouraged to be herself; to dress, speak and behave true to however she is that day. Girls love it! What the girls say: ‘I was nervous about growing up, but now I’m not. I had loads of fun.’ ‘It’s brilliant, we talk about things, really talk, so you realise that others feel the same way.’ Groups meet at The Wellbeing Campus in Bebington and each programme ends with a special celebration for mothers and daughters. Mothers love it too, as they are an integral part of the programme; they are supported alongside

their daughters as they form a circle of women around the girls, providing support to one another as their daughters enter adolescence. What the mothers say: ‘Girls group has transformed my relationship with my daughter.’ ‘I wish I’d had this when I was growing up.’

Girls’ Net, a new online programme, provides guidance and camaraderie through times of challenge to small groups of same-age girls (aged 8-18) in weekly online sessions. It offers tools for coping well; girls access their inner resources while also realising that they’re not alone. The programme costs £95 and runs for six weeks. ‘A chance to be with real girls who won’t judge or be mean, and to talk and discuss daily problems and learn new ways to think about stuff.’ (Age 14).

Lisa is the only Facilitator in the North-West currently offering Girls Journeying Together groups. Her next group is due to start in Spring 2023 and the waiting list is filling up. Contact lisa@ritesforgirls.co.uk to book your space. www. ritesforgirls.com Rites for Girls is a member of the BACP

DEVELOPING PEACE AND CONCENTRATION BY TRAINING IN CALM ABIDING

Everyone can experience benefits from meditation. Calm abiding meditation, or Samatha, is a method for bringing peace and stillness to our minds through mindfulness and awareness. This type of meditation provides a foundation for all other meditation practice, regardless of religion or spiritual tradition.

The process it is in three stages, the first stage is to find a comfortable sitting posture, the second stage is to choose or select an object that our mind can focus on and by doing that cultivate qualities of stability and clarity, and the third stage is the actual meditation.

When we do a sitting meditation, it is important to make the place where we are going to sit, comfortable. Also, it is helpful at the beginning to learn that your mind and body are going to work together, that means while your body is right here and now, make sure your mind also right here and now, and when your body goes through the process of finding a comfortable sitting posture, your mind follows that process. If you do that you'll find it quite easy to make your mind be in the here and now and fully aware and present. When you sit on that comfortable place, very consciously, very deliberately, feel yourself physically and mentally very stable, firm and grounded on the place where you are sitting.

Then, with that feeling of stability, very gently straighten your back starting from your lower back and gradually move up to your shoulders. Although your back is straight, keep your entire body relaxed which is a very important part of the sitting posture. You can keep your hands on your knees or in your lap whichever is most suitable for you. Keep your facial muscles relaxed and have a natural expression, if you can, open your eyes halfway gently gazing at the floor about 1.5 metres in front of you.

To make sure that you have found a right comfortable sitting posture, mentally go through your body posture and check if there is any discomfort, if there is, feel free to make yourself more comfortable. When you have found the right comfortable body posture, then very gently, take three very long and deep breaths in and out through your nostrils, then continue breathing naturally.

The second stage is to choose an object for you to concentrate on. You can pick objects such as your breath, focusing on the sensation at your nostrils, or the movement of your belly raising and falling when you naturally breathe in and out, or you can choose an image, such as an image of the Buddha, these are just a couple of examples. Choose an object that is easy to be with and fully aware of. Make that object very clear to your mind as it is, without exaggerating

it, without manipulating the object, and make it very clear to your mind.

When the selected object is very clear to your mind then the third stage is the actual meditation. The purpose of the meditation is to learn that your mind is to be with that object and to be fully aware of the object, as it is, without any conceptual inputs, such as describing the object, interpreting the object, labelling, naming, judging, the object. The mind should be free from all those conceptual inputs. For the duration of the meditation simply be fully aware of the object and try to remain in that awareness as long as you can. Rest in this awareness and by doing that cultivate the qualities of stability and clarity. If thoughts arise try not to follow those thoughts, just bring your mind back to the object.

Then when you are ready, slowly end your meditation.

Remember it is better to meditate for short periods at first and increase the length of your meditation as your concentration develops, quality is better than quantity.

May this be of some benefit to those who have found this article.

Bill Seymour - Buddhist

By Mollie Bradley

Wirral Unplugged was set up in November 2019 by Dr Diana Powell as a community group to help parents and carers support the balance of being on screen and off for their children. Diana realised there was a way to take time away from the screen through being creative, sustainable, and developing skills. During lockdown, when many of us turned to online sources, Diana wanted to subvert that. She began creating and designing materials called the ’FairyTroll Post’ with university volunteers for families who live in Merseyside. Students would design crafts, games, activities for families, from the lockdown in their home countries (among them students supporting from Poland and China). Diana and a team of Duke of Edinburgh volunteers would then drop the supplies to families by bike to help them during a difficult time. Kids explored topics, from Mexico to Fairies and Trolls, and at the end of the project, local illustrator Rosa Kusabbi created a bag as a fundraiser that represented the children’s favourite weeks.

Since the Pandemic, the weekly post has developed into boxes, which have become richer and more diverse with continued growing due to the support of professional and student volunteers from LJMU, Lipa and University of Liverpool. The boxes make a perfect gift, offering families 10 hours of offline learning through play and connection. The themes are suggested by families and by student volunteers: International students from Vietnam, Mexico and the Caribbean have created boxes. Scientists and Engineers have contributed to boxes, as well as local craftspeople and artisans to help produce the most engaging kits. The boxes emphasise collaboration, problem solving, and communication, supporting mental health and family time and bringing children and adults into contact with ideas they may not have interacted with before.

One of the boxes most favourite with families was the Engineering Around the World Box, with recipes, exercise, crafts, and colouring all related to Engineering in different countries. For Jacinthe Hughes the boxes have been particularly important for her family. Her seven-year-old son has additional needs and finds crafts and colouring difficult, but he engaged particularly well with the engineering box as he really loves to problem solve and make things work. As part of the engineering box, he built his own wooden suspension bridge which he was extremely proud of and was displayed in the family home. Jacinthe commented ‘it is still displayed today. He always talks

about it, how he made it, and it has encouraged him to come off his devices more frequently. It has enabled him to engage more with us as a family and we have been lucky enough to do the circus and Egyptian theme boxes all together.’

I asked Diana do you have an idea of where you want Wirral Unplugged to be.

‘I’d love to make sure more people have access to our boxes! We’d love more people to see the potential of learning through play, spending time together as a family, and balancing your screen time. There are a few facts that really drive me for families, one is the importance of a parent’s relationship with their child to the child’s future career and wellbeing and the other is that by the age of 7 children start to think some careers are out of reach, by working with experts, and using my own background as a teacher and lecturer, we’re able to bring those possibilities into your family’s home. Also core to what we do is working sustainably- and we support many local businesses with our boxes! Shufflewoods helps us with wood designs that support play like our Vietnam Pig-puzzle, and the Chocolate Cellar worked with us to create a chocolate dino fossil.’

If you’re interested in grabbing one of Wirral Unplugged’s boxes for the kids in your life, check out their website www. wirralunplugged.org and enjoy some family time. You can also follow our Instagram @wirralunplugged to keep up to date with our latest news, events, and boxes.

HOPI CANDLES

Why have a Hopi Ear Candle treatment… Do you suffer from conditions related to your ear, nose or throat? Hopi ear candles are an ancient and natural therapy that can offer relief from issues such as sinus problems, compacted ear wax, tinnitus and headaches. Hopi ear candle treatments can also help to reduce inflammation in the ears and sinuses, relieve the symptoms of hay fever, rebalance your body’s natural flow, and generally calm and relax you when life is stressful.

• A pleasant & non-invasive treatment

• Ideal for ear, nose or throat problems

• Soothing & massaging effect

• A proven alternative to ear syringing

What are Hopi Ear Candles?

Hopi ear candles are used to treat a number of conditions of the ear, nose and throat. Quite different from conventional wax candles, a Hopi ear candle is actually a cotton tube, infused with beeswax, honey and therapeutic oils.

How does the treatment work?

The candles work by vaporising their ingredients and causing mild suction in the ear, which lets the vapours gently massage the eardrum and ear canal. Once the candle is placed in the ear, it forms a seal that enables wax and other impurities to be drawn out. Don’t worry, no wax or ash will drop into your ear.

Some people feel Hopi ear candles provide more relief for blocked ears than ear syringing because the treatment draws the wax from the ear rather than compacting it in any way.

What happens during a Hopi ear candle treatment?

The procedure is pleasant and non-invasive. At the beginning of the treatment, the practitioner will examine your ears and discuss your medical history and the problems you are currently experiencing.

You will then lay in a comfortable position on a massage couch before a Hopi ear candle is put into the first ear, lit and held in place for approximately ten minutes, after which the ear is cleaned. They will then repeat the procedure in your other ear. Finally, you’ll receive a facial massage to improve your circulation and are advised to drink a glass of water to rehydrate your body.

How long does this treatment take?

Hopi ear candle treatment takes approximately 10-20 minutes per ear. As we perform a light facial massage at the end of your treatment, you should expect to be in your

appointment for 45-60 minutes.

How many treatments will I need?

The number of Hopi ear candle treatments you need will depend on your reason for choosing this therapy. If you want relief from a short-term problems such as a cold, then you may need several treatments over a week to 10 days. For longer term problems, such as tinnitus, you may benefit from a number of treatments over two to three weeks with a follow-up treatment once a month from then on.

Are there any side effects?

You may experience some side effects for 24 to 48 hours post-treatment. Generally speaking, these are a sign that the treatment has had a positive effect. The most common side effects are:

• Cold-like symptoms

• Headache

• Slight dizziness

• Slight dryness in the throat

• A sticky feeling in the ears or the sensation of loose ear wax

Many people find that positive side effects are better clarity of sound and an immediate relief of pressure in the ears or sinuses.

Do I need to avoid any activities after the treatment or follow a specific aftercare regime?

It’s very normal for ear wax to naturally work its way out of your ear over the first 24 to 48 hours post-treatment, so you may want to cover your pillows with a towel to prevent any staining.

It’s recommended that you avoid submerging your head underwater for 24 hours post-treatment, and that you drink plenty of fluids to help flush toxins out of your system.

If you experience a runny nose, please blow it instead of sniffing.

Under no circumstances should you insert anything, including cotton buds, into your ear.

Can anyone have Hopi ear candles treatment?

Although many people can and do benefit from this treatment, it cannot be carried out if you have an ear infection, perforated eardrum, inflammation within the ear, or if you have grommets fitted.

If you are looking to give this a go try Mel from The holistic hub in Wallasey village 07956 887796 A thermal auricular therapy which includes hopi ear candles and a face and scalp massage.

My name is Darren Holmes, I am a Military Veteran and the founder of the Kaizen Mindset UK Platform & Wirral Wellness Centre the Blended Approach to Physical, Mental Health & Wellness, and I am delighted once again to contribute some of my work with the Wirral Wellbeing Magazine.

It is my mission to assist, educate & inspire as many people as I can, on their own journey to stressless wellbeing & happiness, via Mental health awareness, Cognitive behavioural therapy, Neuro linguistic programming, Mindfulness and the Routes & Dimensions of Wellness.

How good is your circle of concern vs your circle of control, how much Capacity do you have to deal with your stressors?

You’re probably asking yourself, what is the Circle of concern vs the circle of control.

The Graphic will give you a visual idea, but in a nutshell, we are constantly absorbing exteroceptive stimulus via our senses, so all the information that is being taken in via what we can see, hear, feel, taste and touch. This stimulus triggers Neuroceptive responses or reactions (makes the body do what the brain tells it as a reaction or response to sensory stimulus) think, don’t touch that hot plate or don’t look know but.

Now if we are constantly absorbing the tv news, the covid news, the war in Ukraine, the fuel crisis, the hose pipe ban, the political instability of the country, knife & gun crime, this stuff is heavy and it’s a burden to carry, but its not really your burden! It is inside your circle of concern but its outside your circle of control unless of course you have an active role in any of the above examples.

Take 2 pieces of blank paper, begin to write down every single issue that you can think of that has you a little stressed out, when you hit a brick wall and think that you have exposed all the stressors, keep going because I can promise you that the sub conscious brain is holding onto way more than it needs too.

Once you feel that you have transferred all the cognitive stressors onto the first page, get a different colour pen or a highlighter and cross out everything on that page that you have no control over, or you cannot

change or influence from a supporting role, this will leave you with several stressors that you can control or influence change over.

List all those stressors in numerical order of importance on the second blank page!

You now have a list of all the stressful factors in your life that you can begin to systematically work through one day at a time! This is your circle of control.

This exercise is one of my very favourites for removing all the jumbled up cognitive dissonance inside your head, getting it down on paper and providing you with the list of issues you can resolve, it removes so much clutter from the brain that you are clinging onto because you don’t know where to place it, and you will feel relief from unburdening yourself from the things you can’t control from your circle of concern.

If you wanted to take this exercise a few steps further, you could draw up a Matrix of control, and place the stressors from your circle of control into further categories such as, Personal, Family, Work or business matters, Finance, Health, and ask yourself the following questions.

What immediate action can I take?

What supporting role can I play?

How can I influence better outcomes?

Where is external help required?

Where do I need to apply acceptance to the things I cannot change?

Once you have completed this exercise, you will now have far more capacity to cope with the day-to-day stressors that simply keep coming, but in a far more resourceful, logical and responsive manner.

Until our next edition, where I will discuss Capacity building in detail, please remember that we grow through what we go through, as long as we learn the lessons.

BREATHWORK

Breathwork is the most transformational thing I’ve ever done in my life and it could be for you too. As soon as i discovered this amazing technique i wanted to learn how to facilitate it so that i can hold space for others to experience.

As a holistic therapist my Breathwork classes vary and include a mixture of gentle movements to get the energy flowing, Reiki healing and always finishing with a meditation.

Consciously connected breathwork benefits us as human beings we hold onto tension within our bodies and in doing so we create physical, mental and emotional blockages. This technique helps to release the blockages and transform your life and energy.

In today’s society, we are very busy and often neglect our bodies’ built-in natural healing capabilities.

The fact is, most of us live everyday inconsciously, which could manifest as living without knowing who you are, what you want out of life, what matters most to you, what your unique strengths and talents are, and how your actions affect you and others.

Breath is the most powerful mechanism and is literally right beneath our noses waiting to be explored, yet we rarely give it more than a passing thought.

Conscious Connected Breathing is a powerful and safe way to infuse the body with oxygen and energy, recharging our own (often depleted) systems to work to their healing capacity.

It facilitates openings to higher levels of consciousness and allows us to tap into our deeper resources and live our lives joyfully and in abundance. Consciously changing the way you breathe sends a signal to the brain to adjust the parasympathetic branch of the nervous system, which can slow heart rate and digestion and promote feelings of calm as well as the sympathetic system, which controls the release of stress hormones like cortisol.

So if you have an open mind to try something new, you might just have an experience that will change you life. I offer group and 121 sessions

For more info on please follow Retrick_breathwork on facebook and Insta.

Contact: Jo Graham on 07738 460 000

Deep breathing can improve the following

• Mood

• Sleep

• Blood pressure

• Respiration rate

• Metabolism and digestion

• Concentration and focus

• Nervous system

• Brain activity

• Depression

• Grief

• Anxiety

• Anger

Experience deep peace and let go of any emotional baggage.

Couples Counselling

If you and your partner are facing challenges in your relationship, you may feel the need for the advice or perspective of a third party. When there’s conflict between two people, the input of someone who isn’t directly involved in the relationship can be helpful. It’s one reason that many couples of all genders and sexual orientations, married or not, choose to seek relationship counselling from a therapist.

One common misconception about therapy in general, including couples therapy, is that it’s only for people who have serious, immediate problems or mental health conditions. In reality, this is not necessarily true. Both individuals and couples go to therapy for all kinds of reasons, including general maintenance and upkeep of their relationship or their own mental health. Additionally, many individuals and couples go to therapy regularly over time rather than only when facing serious challenges. Relationships take time and effort to cultivate, no matter how long you’ve been together. They go through seasons, they change, and they can be greatly affected by our own personal change as well as what’s happening in the world at large.

We all have our personal attachment style and how we process the concepts of attachment affects how we behave in relationships.

Attachment is a strong bond that develops that makes us feel connected and provides us a sense of belonging. Attachment is also required for a healthy, whole heart, and happy life. One of my favourite authors, Brené Brown espouses that “we are hardwired for connection.” Healthy strong relationships can make us stronger, and more physically and emotionally healthy; whereas bad relationships can make us suffer physically and emotionally. There are several different attachment styles, which shape our interactions with the people closest with us. In the book Attached, the authors discuss the different attachment styles.

Anxious, some of the symptoms of this attachment style are worrying about our partner loving us, worrying about abandonment, and feeling the need to be around our partner all the time.

Avoidant, in this attachment style, some of us may wonder why we have a hard time finding “the one” or having longterm relationships. Often individuals struggle with sharing their feelings and vulnerabilities and tend to find things to distance themselves from emotional intimacy.

Anxious/Avoidant, this attachment bond is a combination

of Anxious and Avoidant. Some of the symptoms are craving love and affection, but simultaneous pushing significant others away.

Secure, the ideal attachment style. It is the balance between having emotional intimacy and connection, but also not worrying too much. Instead of being co-dependent or independent, these people are able to be interdependent in a healthy way.

Couples counselling can be a great way to explore the attachment styles in your relationship. This can lead to a deeper understanding between you allowing you to reconnect, rekindle, and break-through any roadblocks you may be facing in your relationship.

Whether you just want to make your relationship stronger or it’s on the brink of complete ruin, therapy can be a safe and effective way to have your voice heard, have greater understanding of your partner, and to find practical ways to repair and strengthen the bond between you.

During the sessions you’ll focus on actively listening to each other, and, in doing so, learn to see the relationship in a more objective manner. When two people have been in a relationship for some time, it can be easy to get locked into seeing your partner and relationship in one specific, subjective way. Therapy can help couples break free of these preconceived judgments, allowing them to see things as they really are, allowing you both to implement lasting, positive changes together.

For an informal, confidential chat drop me a message or give me a call on 07394 973981 email: castle_therapy@icloud.com

Be Well Learning

Training and consultancy company who specialise in delivering qualifications and courses which promote mental wellbeing.

Our mission is to support organisations to create a mentally healthier workplace.

We believe the most effective way to create a healthy working environment is to train people in mental health awareness and skills at a blend of levels throughout your organisation.

Every workplace is different and we have an adaptable framework that, in our experience, has the greatest sustainable impact.

Training courses

Mental Health First Aid Two Day

Mental Health First Aid Refresher Half Day

MHFA Champion One Day

Mental Health Aware Half Day

Suicide First Aid Understanding Suicide Interventions One Day

Suicide First Aid Lite Half Day

Suicide First Aid Youth

Emergency First Aid at Work One Day

Paediatric First Aid Two Day

Resilience and Mental Strength

Address Your Stress

Small Changes, Big Impact

Autism Awareness

Learning Disability Awareness

Positive Behaviour Support

Bespoke course design on request

For more information or to book onto one of our courses, Visit: www.bewelllearning.com | Email: support@bewelllearning.com Call: 07594862719 | Follow us on social media @bewelllearning

Time to enjoy older age Abbeyfield Hoylake & West Kirby Society

Enhancing Your Natural Beauty

Some of our amazing treatments:

• Opera LED Mask

• The Ultimate 4 Step Facial

• Milia

• Peels

• Advanced Peels

• Dermaroller

• Microdermabrasion

• Sunekos

• Dermaplaning

• Fibroblast

• Weight Loss Jab

• B12 Injections

• Lipofirm Pro

• Anti Wrinkle Injections

• Makeup

• Lashes

• Reflexology

• Laser Hair Removal

• Vascular Treatment

BEST

FACE AND NECK £500 COURSE OF 3 £1000

EYE AND LIP AREA £250

BODY AREAS

(PRICE ON CONSULTATION)

LE MONT BLANC

I had the most incredible evening for the official opening of this impressive restaurant. Thank you Samantha Willett Reynolds for the most amazing food and wonderful hospitality. Truly one of my most special dinning experiences ( as always when your team are involved) I couldn’t recommend this place more for a special occasion or simply for a fantastic meal out.

Guests included media personality Pete Price, In Demand Radio’s Josef Hollywood and presenter Rachael Rhodes. Local singer, Alfie White, entertained guests whilst they enjoyed an array of freshly made canapés before enjoying their mains. Swiss-Style Chateaubriand and Lobster Thermidor served with Pan-Fried Langoustine, Van Dyke Tomatoes, Jenga Fries and Gruyère Cheese Fondue, Wild Mushrooms, Asparagus, Spinach, Crispy Kale and Roasted New Potatoes.

Head Chef Pat served an array of courses from our menu; starting with a Roasted French Trimmed Three Bone Rack of Welsh Lamb served with freshly minted Mashed Potatoes, a Raspberry & Mint Jus, Tender Stem Broccoli and Vichy Carrots. Also served was our delicious Switzerland-Style Chateaubriand with Whole Lobster. A 16oz Barrell-Cut Fillet with Whole Lobster Thermidor served with Pan-Fried Langoustine, Van Dyke Tomatoes, Jenga Fries, Gruyère Cheese Fondue, Wild Mushrooms, Asparagus, Spinach, Crispy Kale and Roasted New Potatoes.

Si then tried our Pan Seared Duck Breast, cooked to medium, alongside Wilted Spinach, Dauphinoise Potatoes, and Roasted Root Vegetables drizzled with a Grand Marnier Orange Zest sauce.

For dessert, Chef created a homemade baked New York Style Toffee Cheesecake served with Chantilly Cream and Salted Caramel Ice Cream.

After 24 years of working for other people in their restaurants/ hotels, Sam owner finally had the opportunity to do it her way. I caught up with her on the night and this is what she had to tell us…

“I have always wanted to open my own restaurant since my work experience at school at the Hollins Hey Hotel in New Brighton. I absolutely love working in hospitality; it’s been all I’ve done.

My inspiration is simple - I am old school. I am a firm believer

that if you’re going to do something, then you need to do it right, with elegance and class. We deliver class, exceptional service, delicious freshly prepared food and a personal experience like no other - something we are very proud of. It’s simple; to deliver exceptional service whilst serving delicious, freshly prepared food in a relaxed, comfortable environment. Everything we serve is fresh - we order our meats, seafood and vegetables from trusted suppliers who are just as passionate about food.

I am a firm believer in looking after my staff and treating them well. I love how happy my team are at work - it reassures me we are doing it right. Myself and my team, we’re the best! I surround myself with strength. I may be the captain of this ship: but without my fantastic crew, I’d run aground. It’s all about the team. They have all been with me for years and they are all fantastic, I would be lost without each and every one of them. My Head Chef delivers excellence every day; he lives and breathes food... it’s what he does he’s an artist. My General Manager is the hardest working young man on the planet - he just strives to be better every day and my Front of House & Kitchen Brigade are all wonderful. Everyone’s attention to detail and passion towards Le Mont Blanc is the key to its success.

Aside from our passion for service, the sourcing of our food is a huge deal for us we love to support local suppliers and provenance is vital. We want to know everything about our orders - where the ingredients are sourced or grown, to their quality. We only buy the best ingredients. We offer the best service and the nicest freshest homemade food. Our food is made with love, and I hope every guest who dines with us can tell. Diners experience the most intimate setting and a lovely ambience; we love to host and make sure our guests have the best time.

Our plans are huge - but it is important to stay humble and be thankful for what we have. We will never become greedy and risk our values, quality and reputation by opening more and more restaurants - we believe in doing a small amount to the best of our ability. However, that doesn’t mean there isn’t more we can do within the company. Le Mont Blanc has a bright future ahead”.

Heswall Building Services was established in 2001, with a philosophy of providing all of your building needs and never compromising on quality. We wanted to create a service that focused on excellence, speed and convenience. We are fully insured so you can be assured that all of our work is carried out safely, whilst respecting your property.

We pride ourselves on customer satisfaction and continue to earn repeat business from our clients, many of whom have been coming back to us many years. At Heswall Building Services, we can carry out any building task no matter how big or small. Our experienced builders and tradesmen will carry out the work you require to a high standard and in an efficient manner.

We are registered contractors with The Guilds of Master Craftsmen, so that you can rest safe in the knowledge that our work is of the highest standard. The Guild of Master Craftsmen assesses, promotes and supports excellence in workmanship - bringing you tradesmen you can trust.

We are fully insured to give you peace of mind and we will tidy up after ourselves to cause you the minimum amount of disruption.

We provide a wide variety of services to match all of your builing needs, including:

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Providing bespoke financial planning to meet your family and business objectives.

At Chariot Financial Management we are dedicated to providing you with the most thorough and personal service possible. We understand our clients, whether it be their current financial situation, their goals, their aspirations –but more than that we work with our clients continually on their business and their home finances to deliver and develop an ongoing trusted relationship.

You and your family

Every person has financial circumstances that are unique to themselves. Our aim at Chariot Financial Management is to provide you with a Financial Forecast to help you achieve financial freedom and to have a choice, regardless of the stage you are at.

Whether it be budgeting and goal setting, juggling a family and a career, building a business, or gearing up to retirement, our approach will help you achieve and maintain a plan to meet your goals.

You and your business

We understand the pressures you are under to drive your business to the next level and how time-consuming it is to get things working optimally. Working together as a team you can concentrate on what you do best and let us do what we do best and provide the financial plan behind your business plan helping growth and sustainability.

A combination of our corporate and personal financial planning services used to help you drive your business to a whole new success and utilising wealth created to secure a future financial independence for both you and your family.

Chariot Financial Management is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. ]ames’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

FTS Reclamation is a family run business that has been open for over 20 years to trade and the public.

We are stockists of reclaimed materials and have a large variety of timbers housed within our unit on site as well as reclaimed Bricks (handmades & wirecuts) and sandstone.

A true Aladins cave you never know what you will find.

We belive in the power of recycling the old and bringing it back to life with a modern twist that seems to be the theme of the time as well as doing our bit for the environment. Each one of our pieces is apart of our local history in buildings that are now gone but each one with a tale to tell. Come and take a look around everyone is welcome. You can find us on Facebook for a virtual tour.

FTS Reclamation

35 Carsthorne Road

Carr Lane Ind Estate

Hoylake. CH47 4FB

0151 632 0322

Find us on Facebook and instagram (we dont just do wood)

The Car Dealers you can trust

dealing with their estate, we can offer you trusted, sensible advice and the professional service you will need at this difficult time. Should you wish to proceed, we will collect your vehicle swiftly and FREE of charge.

As a family business, at Irby Motors we understand that selling a car can sometimes be a difficult decision taken at a difficult time. We take pride in offering a personal service and fair valuation.

We often assist customers who have decided they no longer need to own a car because they are moving to a quieter life after retirement. Selling privately can be stressful and complicated, so if this is a decision you are facing, our professional service can take away that worry at a time when you should be focusing on yourself and this new stage of your life.

With our reliable reputation in this field, we are regularly contacted to value cars in probate. If you are sadly coping with the loss of a loved one and have the responsibility of