Beauty
Nutrition
Trends
Mind + Body
Culture
Travel
Issue 2 - Autumn / Winter 2019
PURELY ME
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Happiness at Any Age Don’t settle for less!
Vegan Skincare? Yes, Please! 3 essential ingredients + face mask recipe
Why Pumpkin Soup?
Delicious recipe to try + the benefits
Add Thailand to Your Travel List Explore heaven on earth for food lovers
Dear readers, The world is changing around us. We are learning about our impact on everything from wellbeing, the environment, our demand on fashion, pressures to succeed, work-life balance and more. With all these combined elements, our focus became clear for this edition. It is time to highlight that we need to do our bit for the environment through sustainable living, be it fashion or veganism. In fact, it is not that difficult to source affordable sustainable fashion, and vegan skincare could be made in your own kitchen! I wanted to truly break down the mental summary we make of our lives to make goals achievable. You can attain anything mentally and do not need to barricade yourself. Invest in yourself because you deserve it and maybe invest in a good book that will nurture that brain of yours. Lucky for you, we have decided to expand into books for our new Culture category because we are about empowering minds, and books are the gateway to imagination and limitless potential. Break out of that box and be you and most importantly be happy.
Ramneet Kaur Maras, Editor
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CONTENTS AUTUMN/WINTER 2019 BEAUTY 4 What’s the Buzz Around Vegan Skincare? Discover vegan skincare secrets + face mask recipe 6 Skin for Every Climate Fight back against the weather for great skin
NUTRITION 8 Top 4 Ingredients to Treat Inflammation Prevent and treat inflammation 10 Why You Should Eat Pumpkin Soup? Pumpkin soup recipe + the benefits
TRENDS 12 We Need to Be More Like These Brands! Sustainable luxury and affordable brands + interview time!
MIND + BODY 14 Happiness at Any Age 7 ways to achieve happiness now 16 Dance Like Nobody Is Watching How much can dancing help us?
CULTURE 18 The Best Late-Night Museum Offers in London London + Museums + Cocktail Bars = Yes Please!
Editorial Committee Ramneet Kaur Maras | Editor Santiago Cornejo | Creative Director Claudia Santoro | Communications Director Daksha Nandhe | Production Director Contact us at: enquiries@purelymemagazine.com
19 Our Favourite Books for the Coming Months Think espionage, romance and thriller
TRAVEL 20 Tokushima, Japan Enjoy a traditional and modern getaway 22 Thailand Explore heaven on earth for food lovers
The models reproduced in Purely Me are used for illustrative purposes only; Purely Me does not suggest that the models engage in the conduct discussed in the stories they illustrate. The publishers regret that they cannot accept any liability for error or omissions contained in this publication, however caused. Readers are advised to seek specialist advice before acting on information contained in this publication, which is provided for general use and may not be appropriate for the readers circumstances.
MINERVA Research Labs London | New York | Tokyo
Published by MINERVA Research Labs Š 2019
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Beauty
What’s the buzz around Vegan Skincare? by Dr. Vidhi Pandya Patel | R&D Consultant and Nutritionist | @smilingvidhi
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few years ago, vegan skincare was not on anyone’s radar but now it is the talk of the town. The vegan industry is booming, and this is great news for ethical reasons and for high-quality skincare. Veganism is about more than just diet or clothes. Did you know that a lot of our beauty and skincare products contain animal ingredients? Many are not aware of this but as a consumer today you should know what you are investing in. The basic know-how that one should have about vegan skincare is that honest vegan-friendly skincare ranges will never use any animal-derived ingredients. A vegan skincare product is made from plants, minerals and some safe, non-animal synthetic lab-made ingredients. So much is available to us in the plant kingdom, that we don’t need to seek out animal-based skincare, keeping it cruelty free. I’m about to share with you some of my best kept traditional vegan skincare secrets. They have been personally tried and tested for their efficacy and I hope you try and test them too.
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Aloe Vera Aloe Vera’s reputation has grown more and more popular for its medicinal purposes. So, what is fascinating about this plant that can relieve sunburn and yet be a part of our household décor? Aloe Vera is a powerful plant with multiple fascinating properties. Its juice from the leaf can potentially treat as well as prevent most skin-related concerns. Fresh Aloe Vera juice can act as an anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal or anti-bacterial cleanser. Not to forget, it also helps plump up the skin by providing much needed hydration on a daily basis.
Natural Plant Oils There is a huge list of oils that can be used as a moisturiser in the form of a day/night serum. These natural plant oils can easily be sourced in your local or organic shop. Oils can be used as a primer underneath makeup too! I have used these oils on myself and I recommend the following oils to my patients too: Avocado Oil, Apricot Kernal Oil, Borage Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil, Sweet Almond Oil, Star Anise Oil and Walnut Oil. These oils are varied in density, so they can be used for different skin types and for day or night-time routines. Essential oils like lemon, rose and bergamot are also useful for skin concerns and can be used daily.
Rice Peptides This ingredient is new in the Western World, but it is quite ancient with roots in the Far East. Eastern medicine has always mentioned the power of Rice Peptides thanks to their antioxidant rich amino acids. Peptides are building blocks that make up proteins in our body which includes the connective tissue fibres: Elastin and Collagen. Yes, we have these peptides in our body but as we age, they decline fast. One of the best forms of vegan peptides is Rice Peptides. Bio-active food derived rice peptides can restore the delicate collagen/elastin balance in our body. It is also a plus that they are easy to digest, meaning all the goodness will take no time to work in our bodies. If you want to restore the perfect collagen/elastin balance with the added benefit of having strong hair and nails, why not try Gold Collagen® Vegan? It contains 28 active ingredients including rice peptides! To find out more about Gold Collagen® Vegan benefits check out the back of this edition.
TRY MY SECRET RICE FACE MASK RECIPE! Add 3 tbsp of well-cooked rice (not al dente) and 1 tsp of cinnamon powder and the juice from a small piece of freshly grated cucumber. The mixture should begin to form a paste. Do not add too much cucumber juice or it will become too runny. Add 2-3 drops of freshly squeezed lemon. Mix till it looks like a paste that will stick well to your face. Apply this partially gritty paste to your face with circular movements. Leave it on your face for 5-10 minutes until it begins to dry. Don’t let it dry completely. Gently wash it off with lukewarm water, followed by a splash of cold water, to close the skin’s pores. Your skin will have a natural and healthy glow!
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Beauty
Skin for every climate by Dr. Sara Sibilla | Head of R&D | @sara.sibilla
Various types of climate can affect our skin differently. Cold, dry or humid climate can cause everything from pimples to dry skin. Extreme cold or hot weather conditions can irritate some existing skin conditions or even cause new ones. For this reason, it is important to know the condition of our skin and understand the impact the climate can have on it.
Cold weather Cold weather gets a bad reputation. Some benefits of the cold for your skin are it clears your pores, reduces puffiness, rejuvenates your skin and more. The downside to colder and low humid climates is that overexposed parts of our face can lead to dry skin. Dry skin becomes the perfect place for bacteria, which can finally penetrate a damaged stratum corneum and create pimples and impurities in the skin. Especially with icy winds, skin can become rough, red, stiff and cracked. 6
Solution! To take care of dry and delicate skin, avoid taking long showers and remember to use a good moisturiser every day. Aim for a moisturiser that hydrates not only on the surface.
Dry weather
Hot weather
In dry climates, the skin is more easily irritated and an increase in dead cells is observed. There is a reason why lips, for example, crack more in a dry climate. Dryness takes away the moisture that our body naturally produces. Certain skin conditions, such as eczema can worsen in drier climates.
In warmer climates, the temperature increase can make the skin more prone to the appearance of impurities, especially with oily skin. Oily or sweaty skin can make us feel like we can’t wait to dry our skin, but dry skin isn’t necessarily the solution. In excessive heat, you can also get other problems such as skin rashes which are pimples and bubbles that trap moisture under the skin. This condition is common in children but also affects adults who are exposed to hot and humid climates.
Solution! It is best to avoid long, and overly hot baths and it is advised you use delicate soaps that can soothe the skin. Do not forget to drink at least 2 litres of water a day and use a good moisturiser every day to keep skin dryness and eczema under control.
Solution! You need to take into consideration if you’re using products that contain salicylic acid or glycolic acid, which can make your skin more resistant to sunlight. You need to use these products carefully and apply them only at night or doubled with a strong SPF.
Win GOLD COLLAGEN® Beauty Treatments worth over £300! Enjoy a 90-minute Lifestyle and Nutrition consultation with our nutritionist and receive a 1-month supply of your chosen liquid beauty supplement + 1 pack of 4 Hydrogel Face Masks + 1 Gold Collagen Defence or 1 Gold Collagen Dermabiotix.
Simply go to purelymemagazine.com and fill out the form and you could be in with a chance to win a full GOLD COLLAGEN® makeover! T&C’s apply: For full terms and conditions please visit purelymemagazine.com. 7
Nutrition
Top 4 Ingredients to treat Inflammation by Dr. Vidhi Pandya Patel | R&D Consultant and Nutritionist | @smilingvidhi
Did you know that inflammation is the cause of most diseases today? The body can be affected by so many factors but when there is the presence of an illness, it almost always starts with inflammation. In my clinical practice, I try to control or combat this condition in order to cure or prevent further illnesses. I am going to share with you my top 4 ingredients that have been the best at preventing and treating most medical conditions that have started from inflammation.
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Photo: dashu83
Frankincense (Boswellia Serrata): Not many people have heard about this wonder herb and if they have it is usually because they remember the story of the 3 wise men gifting Frankincense, Myrrh and Gold. Frankincense is a tree variety native to hot countries like India, Ethiopia and the Arabian Peninsula and its active ingredient, resin, is extracted from the tree. It has one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory properties in the world of herbs. The resin is successfully being used to treat age related degenerative and inflammatory joint/musculoskeletal disorders. One study in the US showed that combining Frankincense and Curcumin was more effective for treating osteoarthritis than a commonly used synthetic medical grade drug! This herb is also available in essential oil form.
Resveratrol: It sounds like a spell you would hear in J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter book series, but this super powerful ingredient is found in most plants and is the reason plants survive. When a plant gets diseased, Resveratrol comes to their rescue. Resveratrol is a type of natural phenol and a phytoalexin produced by plants in response to when they are under attack by pathogens such as bacteria or fungi, to combat the attack or help heal them. Great sources of Resveratrol include the skin of grapes (especially red grapes), cranberries, blueberries, raspberries and cherries. Now you know the importance of eating red fruits! Resveratrol can fight any type of inflammation, fungal and bacterial infections in human bodies and act as a potent antioxidant to fight the process of ageing and degeneration.
Cinnamon: This little brown spice is in most kitchens, but it is still not used as often as it should be. This popular spice is made from the bark of the huge cinnamon trees found in dense forests of China, India and parts of Southeast Asia. In addition to being a strong anti-inflammatory, Cinnamon has effective properties such as anti-diabetic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-fungal, anti-cancer as well as helping to lower bad cholesterol – isn’t that a good mouthful? So why not use it more often? It goes great in anything from breakfast yoghurts, porridge, omelettes, soups, stews, desserts and you can even make a basic cinnamon green tea too.
Turmeric (Curcumin): Have you ever wondered why or what makes Turmeric so bright yellow and difficult to wash off as a stain? What makes it so strong? It is the yellow pigment called Curcumin. This wonderful active ingredient is a highly anti-inflammatory agent. In the world of Ayurveda and Chinese medicines, Curcumin has always been used to reduce inflammation as well as treat surgical wounds and infections. Various studies have proved Curcumin acts as an antioxidant in the process of fighting inflammations and I am sure the future will reveal other health issues it can combat too. So how do you get all of Turmeric’s benefits? It can be taken orally, on its own, in the form of a supplement (powder, liquid or fresh root) and is used in cooking. I would advise to use it directly on the skin, acne, scars and wounds for it has miraculous results. I have been using Turmeric in my homemade face mask/ cleanser for years and it gives such a wonderful glow to the skin. Photo: rawpixel.com
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Nutrition
Can Pumpkin Soup revi It’s true, it really can.
By Juan Lainez | Nutritionist & Journalist | @naturalfoodsrevolution
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inter is around the corner and after nourishing our bodies with fresh recipes during summer months, the time has come for hot and delicious food. With so many options, pumpkin soup is a great seasonal choice for freezing months. Apart from keeping you warm, your skin can also benefit from a high content of carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, that our body converts into Vitamin A. Carotenoids may have some protective effect against the damage by harmful UV rays because it acts as a natural sunblock. Summer is past now, but even after being exposed to the sun, Vitamin A will help to nourish and feed our skin with the right nutrients. So, do not worry if you were sunbathing recently. Some other antioxidants, like Vitamin C or E, are present in it and they play a key role in healthy skin. Pumpkin is also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, antioxidants that mainly support your eyesight. It is very well known that Vitamin C is essential for collagen production in the body. Therefore, it maximises collagen absorption for those who are taking collagen supplements. On the other hand, Vitamin E is like a bodyguard for the skin, it protects cells from free radicals and prevents further damage.
Quick and Easy Pumpkin Soup Recipe 10
Pumpkin contains a good source of iron, folate, potassium and fibre. Iron is essential for production of red blood cells and thus for beating tiredness and fatigue. Folate, its key role is against age-related macular degeneration. Potassium is crucial for heart health and fibre assists a regular bowel movement and detoxification of the body. Pumpkins are low in calories, more than 90% of a pumpkin is water. At the same time, they are loaded with high levels of nutrients. Apart from its excellent nutritional value, it is easy to cook, and it is in season. Eating seasonal foods will always be a healthier option for your health because food is tastier, and it contains more antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Besides, seasonal products are cheaper, and you are supporting your local community. Plus, you are in harmony with nature’s natural rhythm. Overall, pumpkin can strengthen immunity and support you through all winter, apart from restoring any skin damage after excessive sun exposure.
Ingredients 1 kilo of pumpkin, peeled and chopped into chunks 2 tbsp olive oil 2 onions, chopped 700ml vegetable stock 150ml double cream Pepper and salt, to taste 40g pumpkin seeds, feta and paprika (optional)
italise my skin?
Method 1
Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a saucepan. Warm it for 1 minute on a low heat. Add 2 finely chopped onions. Increase heat to medium for 5 minutes and stir onions until they are soft.
2 Add the already chopped pumpkin. Cook for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir it occasionally and wait until it goes softer and turns golden.
3 Pour in 700ml vegetable stock. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. 4 Increase the heat until it starts boiling. Then decrease heat to low-medium for 10 minutes, until the pumpkin is very soft.
5 Finally, add 150 double cream and bring back to boil. Wait for it to cool down for a few minutes and then blend it.
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Design: Anita Hoxha
Before you serve the pumpkin soup, you can always sprinkle fried pumpkin seeds on top. Simply fry a few pumpkin seeds in a small pan on medium heat for 2 minutes and then add them on top of the soup before serving. You can also crumble some feta and paprika on the top to add some salty heat to the soup.
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Trends
We need to be more like these sustainable brands! by Ramneet Kaur Maras | Editor | @thefinder._
With the weather being abnormal for the time of year it is, from droughts, forest fires and floods countries are experiencing, we need to ask ourselves a question. Are we doing enough to reverse the damage that has been done? Thankfully, there are brands out there who are trying to make that effort and I am putting a special spotlight on the luxury and affordable brands that are about sustainable and ethical fashion.
Elvis and Kresse are definitely your parent’s favourite child. They rescue raw materials including decommissioned firehoses, turning them into luxury lifestyle accessories and donate 50% of profits back to charities. That’s right, you just read “50% back to charity” and “luxury” in the same sentence!
1. Zebra Scarf Print Kimono 2. TARA Blouse
5. STROLLER Womens Stormy Sea
3. Fire & Hide Large Post Bag 4. Jannika Blouse Midnight Navy
9. Suki Strip Trousers
6. Fire & Hide Clutch Bag
7. V&A Cosmic Print Shirt Dress 8. Recycled Florence Authentic Straight Leg Jeans
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1. £80, monsoon.co.uk | 2. £65, Komodo.co.uk | 3. £270, elvisandkresse.com | 4. £49.90, wearethought.com | 5. £48, Komodo.co.uk | 6. £150, elvisandkresse.com | 7. £125, peopletree.co.uk | 8. £32, asos.com | 9. £85, peopletree.co.uk
In our search for brands taking an environmental and ethical stand, we found BIDBI (Bag It Don’t Bin It). They are a manufacturing company based in Sheffield, who produce customised tote bags we all want and need. We got the opportunity to speak with their Marketing Manager, Arnika Bhupal to explore their ethical and sustainable range and more.
1. What’s the inspiration/ethos behind Bidbi? BIDBI was founded with the environment in mind, tackling the problem of being both fashionable and sustainable with many high street shops being some of our first clients. 2. What kind of fabrics/materials are you using? All our bags are made using 100% natural cotton. We offer this in various varieties: jute, Juco and Canvas. We only work with natural materials. 3. How important is it that Bidbi is Fairtrade certified and the source of ethical labour from a sustainable supply chain? It is, arguably, one of the most important aspects of BIDBI. Making sure our bags are made by individuals who are fairly treated and paid a living wage is a key pillar of our company ethos. 4. How did you get the Fairtrade certification mark? You need to go through a rigorous auditing process to meet their high operating standards. The certification offers a mark of commitment to environmental sustainability, empowerment of smallscale producers and fair and safe working conditions. We only use the mark on items that are certified Fairtrade cotton, where everyone in the supply chain are subject to the same strict standard.
6. For customers who do not want to place an order of 200 bags, is there somewhere they can purchase 1 bag? We have a sister company called Doodle Bag (doodle-bag.com), where you can buy 1-200 units. This is great if you only need a few bags for a Hen Do or if you want to personalise a gift! 7. Why are you concerned with ensuring that the workers in the partner factories in India are supported? Roughly, what is the number of times a year your team visit the factories? Child labour, exploitation, and poor working conditions are rife in developing nations. There is no need to treat other people poorly. Our directors visit the factories at least once a year, to keep up a good working relationship and to also make sure we know where our bags come from! We also ensure that we have all the up to date accreditation certificates for all the partner factories and any auditing notes so we can pass on our confidence to our customers. 8. What sets you apart from other companies? The quality of our bags is second to none. Our director works closely with the factories in developing each bag style and ensuring the quality of each product we bring to market is head and shoulders above our competitors. 9. What is your most popular item? Hmm, that is a tough one but I think it
5. Can you tell us the last thing you bought that was ethically or environmentally sustainable and why did you choose it?
would have to be our Luxury Shopper Bag.
I bought a pair of trousers from a charity shop. I rarely buy new clothes as I am aware of the massive problem with fast fashion. When I buy clothes from charity shops, I feel a lot less guilty as it is much less wasteful, they are second/third hand and I am also helping the charity!
@ bagitdontbinit https://www.bidbi.co.uk/
Design: Anita Hoxha
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Mind + Body
Happiness at any Age by Ramneet Kaur Maras | Editor | @thefinder._ When it comes to happiness, studies suggest that older people are happy. In a TED talk, Laura Carstensen states that:
ed knowledge, arkable improvements – increas “Ageing brings some rather rem r people are of life improve. That’s right, olde expertise and emotional aspects certainly”. aged people, and younger people, happy. They’re happier than middle Yes, it may be true that as we grow older, we leave behind our youths’ moodiness and a sense of maturity and contentment fosters within us. But does this mean we are only happy once we are old or did that journey of happiness begin from a young age? We have asked around and here are our top 7 tips on what you should focus on to help build a strong foundation for happiness, no matter what your age.
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Surround Yourself with Positivity
Keep Moving
Remove yourself from negative and harmful situations. This can cover a variety of things but many associate it with work life. If you are not happy with your job, change it. We spend far too much of our time at work for us to ignore the impact it can have on our wellbeing. This can also extend to family or friend circles who take from you more than they give to you.
Exercise releases endorphins that are known for increasing your happiness. It helps your body’s strength and agility, boosts your selfconfidence and helps to reduce chronic pain. This is vital as you grow older as physical issues become apparent.
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Embrace and Explore
It is vital you discover new passions and hobbies. Do what you love. Challenge yourself and find a new sense of purpose. Enjoy green spaces and breathe. Feel optimistic and be open to new experiences. You will most definitely feel the great impact this will have on you and your loved ones.
Mental Health
Eat Right
It has been made clear that mental exercise helps in the effort to keep mental health and old age problems at bay. Something as simple as reading, writing, playing puzzles, or mentally challenging games is an exercise for your brain. Meditate, forgive and leave problems in the past. Gain peace in your life and control your mood as only you can.
As we age, our love affair with food may change. From a slower metabolism and digestion and how your body processes food, your nutrition is super important to keep you happy and healthy. Feel more energetic when you avoid refined carbs and sugary foods and turn to high-fibre vegetables and fruits and whole grains.
Change Things Up
Get Enough Sleep
Improve your social life by interacting with other people, creating a network of support and staying in touch. Hang out with people of different ages and walks of life. This will have a positive impact and you will make others feel young and active and teach others a great deal and vice versa.
Did you know exercise can also improve your sleep? A great sleep improves your memory, focus and attention. Adults, as they age, complain of insomnia and sleepiness during the day. Get into a healthy sleep habit, making sure you will get quality sleep for a positive impact.
Let us encourage working on your happiness early on. It is not a time to sit back and wait until we are older for our happiness levels to go through the roof. Be the change that you seek. Start working on your happiness from a young age and this includes physical and mental health. Begin now and enjoy as you go along in life with a sturdy foundation of happiness that can only increase and make your journey the best it can be! Photo: Freepik
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Mind + Body
Dance like nobody is watc Your mind and body will thank you for it! by Elisa Raffaelli | Head of Brand | @er_theshoequeen I often get asked why I dance all the time. No matter where I am – on the street, in a club, at home or at my desk – if a song makes my feet itch, I will throw some moves! Why? Simply because it makes me feel so good! However, “dance like nobody is watching” is easier said than done. Often people are scared to dance because they lack coordination or fear being judged. Do not underestimate the power of dancing. It can be fun and count as your cardio for the day but it is so much more! 16
First, dancing is universal. It works for all ages, genders and shapes. No matter how long or how fast you dance, dancing is a great cardio exercise. It can be a gentle exercise you can adapt to your own pace, style and abilitie. Its freedom of execution makes you more in control. No matter your level, it can be fun and regularly practised because it does not feel like a chore. It also helps you to improve your coordination and balance. You can develop certain muscles that influence your centre of gravity. This can help reduce dangerous falls as you age.
When learning a dance routine or move, regardless of complexity, you must understand the steps and be able to repeat it. When dancing with a partner, you must understand and know the signs to coordinate your dancing. These stimuli have the ability to keep your brain sharp. Several studies have shown that leisure activities like dancing can reduce the risk of dementia when performed regularly1. The NHS recommends dancing to improve mental health2. Dancing releases a flow of happy hormones in our body which helps fight depression and anxiety. It also encourages social relationships and helps people feel part of a community, which is fundamental to improving mood and mental health.
“ Dancing helps fight depression I recently discovered that dancing can impact your thought process and how to handle your day-to-day problems. I attended a talk led by Peter Lovatt3, dance psychologist and a former dancer. He explained that dance can change the way you think. With simple exercises, he made clear how much a common language dance can be and how to use it as a problem-solving technique. If you feel stuck and cannot find a solution, if your creative mind lacks inspiration or if you need to reinvigorate your productivity, just turn the music on and move with it.
ching... “ Dance can change the way you think
Armed with this knowledge, I made my way back to my office and tried this method with my creative team whenever we struggled to find new ideas or productivity was low. Once we passed the awkward moment of “gosh we have to dance in the middle of the office”, the team started to feel happier, more relaxed and created a stronger bond and before we knew it, new ideas popped up. Surprised with the outcome and ease in being able to speak the same language through moves and no words, we kept using this tool as a go-to for inspiration or stress relief. You do not need much to dance, just a good soundtrack. Press play and get ready to inspire your body and your mind!
https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa022252#t=articleResults https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/exercise/dance-for-fitness https://www.peterlovatt.com
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Culture
Best Late-Night London Museums by Marta Casas | Global Brand Development | @thearthunters
London is an amazing city with plenty of after work options and cocktail bars and is brimming with art and cultural offers, but sometimes we can struggle to find these two great elements together. For those who are not lucky enough to get out of the office before 6pm but are passionate about art, or just like to dance and have a drink surrounded by Kandinsky, Turner and Modigliani artworks, here are the best museums for you to go to!
Tate Modern (Tate Lates) Tate Modern is open every day till 6pm but on Friday and Saturday, it is open till 10pm. You can now join in on the Uniqlo Tate Lates, an after-hours event on the last Friday of every month. You can enjoy live music, live performances, poems, talks, DJ, food and drinks and it is for free!
V&A The V&A museum have a contemporary late-night event on the last Friday of every month until 10pm. You can meet emerging artists and designers, and experience live performances, films and DJ’s. You can also enjoy food and drinks at the Cage and Courtyard CafÊ. Free entry too!
National Portrait Gallery Start your weekend in style with #FridayLatesNPG, life drawing, film screenings, art conversations and music inspired by the exhibitions. All of this is waiting for you every Friday till 9pm in the heart of London with free entry.
Whitechapel Gallery & East London Galleries The hardcore East Londoners will be pleased to discover that every Thursday, Whitechapel Gallery is open till 9pm. Every first Thursday of the month, 150 galleries in East London organise special events like screenings, private viewings, tours or talks and all of this is free! You can book tickets for the Art Bus Tour online at the Whitechapel Gallery official website. 18
our favourite books for the coming months Tell Me Who I Am By Julia Navarro Espionage, adventure, love, lies, alliances, uncertainty, traumas and much more! Sounds interesting? Then, you cannot miss out on this novel! It tells the unforgettable story of Amalia Garayoa, a rebellious young woman who, fighting against her inevitable fate, flees Spain on the verge of the Civil War. A victim of her mistakes, this well drawn character is an anti-heroine, a just woman who decides that she can’t be neutral in this life. A fascinating journey across the hectic events that took place during the 20th Century, from the Second World War to the fall of the Berlin Wall. This is a tale about being true to yourself and the world we live in despite your flaws. Santiago Cornejo | Creative Director | @yagocor
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine By Gail Honeyman A novel about loneliness and friendship with a very unusual heroine, Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine, takes you on an emotional and intriguing journey. As the story unfolds you will fall in love with the believable and relatable characters but also break your heart as you learn of Eleanor’s dark past. Despite the bitter moments, humour always makes an appearance and you will laugh out loud with a character that is naturally awkward and lacking social skills but has a smart, witty sense of humour. Our need for social interaction is the central theme of this novel and above all, how small acts of kindness can completely change someone’s life. Amparo Rodríguez | CRM Manager | @amparin86
Nine Perfect Strangers By Liane Moriarty The story follows 9 characters and their journey through a 10-day health retreat promising to completely change them by the end. Each character has their own reason for being there and wanting to change their lives. This unravels deep emotions while capturing backstories taking you into 9 separate worlds all coming together in this one retreat. Written through the eyes of each character the story is extremely witty yet manages to draw out some of the deepest emotions in the characters. A funny, yet emotional read from the author of Big Little Lies. Daksha Nandhe | Production Director | @daksha80 Photos: Carlos Romero Herrera
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Travel
Tokushima, Japan by Claudia Santoro | Communications Director | @claudiasantoro1
Choose a balance of tradition and modern Do you want to discover interesting, beautiful and natural attractions on the other side of the world? Tokushima, Japan is the right place for you! A huge unspoiled location in the North East of Shikoku Island, where you can discover Japanese traditions and immerse yourself in the authentic culture. How to get around After having flown into Kansai, you may have a 2-hour bus ride to reach Tokushima (previously called Awa) where there are 260,000 inhabitants. To get to Tokushima, you will drive over many bridges and be able to take in the beautiful waterfalls, valleys and villages. In just a few kilometres, you pass the sea to the mountains, from the modern to the traditional in the renowned punctual Japanese way. To complete the tour of the city, you can stay at Tokushima Awa Kanko Hotel, located strategically for those visiting the major attractions. In fact, the hotel is a short walk from JR Central Station, linking the tourist attractions and other prefectures (main subdivisions of Japan). If you visit Naruto, the hotel Ridge or the Moana Resort hotel accommodations are ideal. 20
Photo: David Emrich
What to see and do In the Iya Valley in the heart of Tokushima, you are immersed in a bamboo forest with rich, green, narrow trees which stand by Yoshino River, the youngest river in the region. Cross the river by boat starting from Ooboke to admire untouched nature, crystal clear water and huge rock formations that are classed as a natural treasure. Why not visit Ochiai village on the highest peak, where there is a small farming community? You can get into nature and participate in cooking workshops and local crafts without spending too much. Tokushima has 24 of the 88 temples, which makes Shikoku famous for the circular 1200-kilometre pilgrimage. Head past the island of Awaji (known in Japanese folklore as the birthplace of Japan), to the Naruto Bridge, the longest bridge in the world and set your eyes on the phenomenon on the Naruto Whirlpools. To complete your trip, take a walk along the river in the city centre to enjoy the spectacle of LED lights of which Japan is the largest producer. Make sure you experience the Awa Odori dance at the Awa Odori Kaikan museum, where you can watch and even join in with the dance that shows the island’s folklore. For further folk tradition experiences, visit the Awa Jurobe Yashiki, the museum of puppets.
Do you know the traditional Japanese way of greeting? It is custom to remove your shoes at every entrance and greet with the classic ceremony of bowing to every person individually. That can be a lot of bowing! If you are a stickler for the rules, then here are 3 ways you can choose to bow: an informal 15-degree angle, a formal 30-degree angle and a very formal, deeper angle bow.
Where and what to eat Cooking is an art and is done by professionals with lots of respect for food and nature. Each meal is carefully prepared and served in colourful bowls made from the manufacture of ceramics, or in lacquer, bamboo and wood. Many dishes are accompanied by sudachi, a citrus fruit like lime. Tokushima produces sake, a drink made from fermented rice so you will see this around. At the Sakaezushi restaurant, you can eat delicious sushi and sashimi served along with algae and wakame. In the Iya Bijin tattoria, you can try excellent grilled fish. For udon lovers, at Nimiya trattoria they serve wheat noodles. You cannot miss the traditional Japanese Ramen, traditional wheat noodles that are served in a meat broth and soy sauce seasoned with pork, spring onions and egg. For a traditional kaiseki meal, visit Toraya Kochu. If you want to try a hot pot, go to the Umikaze restaurant where each table has a personal grill on which to roast fish, meat and vegetables. Photo: Cody Chan
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Travel
Thailand
by Alexandra Devisch | Product Manager | @nut.ri
Thailand, the Land of Smiles Thinking of Thailand, often the first associations that cross our minds are an ever-busy Bangkok, countless tuktuk taxis vying for your attention, hot sandy beaches beneath a sun bursting sky and lots of tourists on stunning beaches. But did you know the country is also the perfect getaway for those seeking some well-needed peace of mind? Take a deep breath, find a comfortable space and let me take you on a journey! Best time to visit
What to do
You can basically visit Thailand all year round but bear in mind the rainy season lasts from July till October. That also means… hello, mosquitos! Temperatures are usually nice and warm, or burning hot, though Thailand’s northern part can also be surprisingly chilly. Even if it feels counterintuitive, make sure you pack a sweater and socks – you will thank me for it!
Try out massages, lots of them. From Thai full body massage, herbal compress massage, foot massage, hot stone massage… go crazy, be bold and try multiple out! However, avoid commercial houses and look for small local parlours instead for the authenticity. It is incredibly cheap and you will experience a great body and soul pamper session. You will unwind in no time!
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Photo: Sasin Tipchai
Where to go If you love the hustle and bustle of big cities, endless stimuli for all 5 senses, nightlife and bursting markets, then go crazy in Bangkok. Fancy a quieter alternative? Head straight to Chiang Mai, located about 435 miles north of the capital. Easily reachable via (night) train or plane, and much loved by a large variety of travellers. Chiang Mai is home to hundreds of Buddhist temples, heaven for night bazaar lovers and often praised for its excellent authentic cuisine. In need for some adventure along the way? Try the ‘Flight of the Gibbon’, one of South East Asia’s longest ziplines. Glide effortlessly through the treetops of the Thai rainforest for some unique views and wildlife sounds. Admittedly, it might take some courage for those suffering from fear of heights, but well worth it. It will leave you speechless. While in the north, consider paying Pai a visit, a small town surrounded by misty mountains. The town centre is incredibly laid back yet vibrant but, truth be told, also very touristic. My tip: rent a motor bike and carefully explore the surrounding wide areas. Chances are you discover a hidden hot spring, a small organic farm, or find yourself suddenly in the middle of an exotic herb plantation. Go with the flow and let yourself be surprised. But a trip to Thailand wouldn’t be complete without some fun at the beach. Avoid commercial places and try one of the different Koh’s at the Thai east side. You will be treated to stunning views and relaxed atmosphere.
Tip before you go! When travelling in Thailand, a cotton or silk scarf is your best friend, especially for the ladies. It allows you to cover your shoulders or legs when unexpectedly visiting a Buddhist temple, protects against the sun if there is no shadow nearby and works as a blanket when picnicking on the go.
What to eat Thailand is heaven for food lovers, period. The spices are abundant, the curries ever creamy and the fruit colourful. And those fruits go much further than the classic breakfast buffet trio of watermelon, pineapple and mango. Head to your local market and take in the varieties of mangosteen, rambutan, rose apple and more. Yes, they taste as great as they sound. Another must try is pandan jam, also called coconut jam, a sweet spread made from coconut milk and eggs, flavoured with pandan leaf. It has a typical bright green colour that you cannot miss. Often referred to as the ‘Asian vanilla’, the taste of the pandan plant can be best described as floral with citrus and pine undertones. Photo: Rémi Deligeon
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