BLUSH Magazine- October 2020

FREE | WINTER 2020

Art of...

STYLE

MEDITATION BUSINESS

ASK! Molecule Masks Celebrate Your BODY

Martial ARTS

Interview with

Georgina Baillie

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BLUSH

CONTENTS

62

Winter

71

40 Art of Being Stuck

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41 Art of Trading 42 Art of Business in 2020 and Beyond 46 Art of Performance with Mark Stevenson

Beauty 6

Cancer, Confidence and Coronavirus LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER NEWS

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Get Creative with these 7 beauty products

10 Bowie Beauty GET THE LOOK 13

Glam Hair Don’t Care! HAIR

Ultimate Travel 49 7 Places to Visit for Art 50 Drawing the Crowds

Style

19 Golden Rose BEAUTY

52

24 Jessica’s Story

55 Balance FASHION

Leisure & Lifestyle 25

ASK! Molecule Masks

52

Art of Style

61 7 ways to Add Art to your Wardrobe 62 Autumn Shine FASHION 66 Art of Being You FASHION

26 Art of Living TRUE STORY 28 Art Therapy INTERVIEW with Georgina Baillie 32 Furniture Village FEATURE 37

Art Piece by Russell Hand

38 Art of Accepting Death

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Dear creative charismatic readers...

Welcome to the Art issue of BLUSH – celebrating various artistic sides to our lives

Health & Fitness 71 Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 72 Art of Self-Defence 75 Art of Kicking Ass 76 Art of Celebrating your Body 79 Art of NOT Overindulging 81 Art on a Plate with Lynda Stretton 82 Art of Meditation 86 The Benefits of Art

that can bring lightness through dark times, and sparkle to our daily tasks.

I’d like to extend a special ‘thankyou’ to the contributors that have been involved in this issue because it takes many creative people to bring together a project like Blush: Enjoy the stories, articles and inspirational images – Including information on Look Good Feel Better charity; our interviews with Georgina Baillie and Mark Stevenson; and (my personal favourite) Art of Celebrating your Body on page 76.

With love, support and fabulous creation

Jordan

Managing Editor

COVER CREDITS Photographer: Dawn Marie Jones: @stoyanovjones Hairstylist: Vicki Lord: @vicki_lord_hair Make-up Artist: Anne-Marie Simak: @annemariesimak Model: Caroline Rueda @carolinerueda

Disclaimer: BLUSH Magazine is published bi-annually (twice per annum) by Seven Star Media Ltd. No part of BLUSH Magazine may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted to any form without permission.

Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of Seven Star Media Ltd, and are included to provide advice only. No content is a substitute for professional medical advice. During printing, images may be subject to a 15% variation. © Copyright of content belongs to individual contributors with the magazine copyright belonging to Seven Star Media Ltd. All rights reserved. Please either keep this magazine for future reference, pass it on for somebody else to read, or recycle it.

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Executive Editor Lee Gatland Art Director Richard Hejsak Managing Editor & Brand Consultant Jordan Martin Jordan@sevenstarmedia.co.uk Proof-reader: Ara E Lee Ara@sevenstarmedia.co.uk SALES TEAM sales@sevenstarmedia.co.uk 01959 574 556 Printed By Micropress Printers Ltd Published By SEVEN STAR MEDIA LTD, 184 Main Road, Biggin Hill, Westerham, Kent sevenstarmedia.co.uk Tel. 01959 543659

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CANCER, CONFIDENCE AND CORONAVIRUS ‘LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER’ CANCER SUPPORT CHARITY: Building confidence and connections throughout Covid and beyond, with new virtual workshops for women, men and young adults.

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he pandemic has changed our lives and our perspective on how we live forever. The journey through lockdown has been testing and emotional for everyone, not least those who have been battling cancer at the same time. Cancer patients have suffered delays in diagnosis and treatments and their particular vulnerability during the pandemic has caused enormous anxiety.

A recent study* found that more than a quarter of a million cancer sufferers have been struggling with panic and anxiety attacks during

lockdown, and are now facing new fears about the loosening of restrictions. In addition, patients are finding it harder to connect with vital cancer support services that help them through their difficult journey and help manage anxiety levels.

Look Good Feel Better is the only cancer support charity helping to boost the physical and emotional wellbeing of people undergoing cancer treatment. For 25 years the charity has offered support and an outlet to cancer patients during the most stressful of times through confidence-boosting skincare and make-up workshops in over 140 locations across the UK. Look Good Feel Better

understands the crucial importance of support networks and, with the onset of the pandemic, moved quickly to introduce online versions of their hugely valued workshops.

The organisation has also expanded its offering to include online sessions for men and young adults and, at the request of its beneficiaries, is soon to launch workshops covering haircare/wigs and scarves, nailcare and body image/styling.

Look Good Feel Better’s aim is to support all cancer patients through these hardest of times with some fun, morale boosting, positive interaction. The new Virtual Workshops help alleviate some negativity whilst giving back a degree of control and raising confidence levels.

*By Macmillan Cancer on 570,000 people in the UK with cancer.

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Skincare and Make-up

The online version of Look Good Feel Better’s original workshops comprise Zoom sessions for 8-10 people – hosted by trained experts – that help people combat the visible side effects of their cancer treatment, such as debilitating skin changes and the loss of brows and lashes.

Each session provides a safe, welcoming and fun environment to learn skincare and make-up tips and techniques to combat some of the issues caused by treatment.

Most importantly, they also provide an opportunity to chat, ask questions, share experiences and feel supported and connected at this very challenging time.

“It was so helpful to talk to women in a similar situation.

The session was helpful in reminding us how to apply make-up and how to stay hygienic. It was also reassuring to know that there are organisations such as Look Good Feel Better, which are still functioning and which are caring for people with cancer.

It made a huge difference to me and gave my confidence a real boost.” Joanne, attendee of the first Virtual Workshop

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Skin Fitness Workshops for Men

were many requests for guidance on haircare, wigs and scarf styling to help patients through the very challenging experience of losing their hair during treatment. New sessions tackling all haircare and headwear concerns in collaboration with ‘The Hair Loss Coach’ Jasmin Gupta, founder of charity Cancer Hair Care, are in trial now and will launch later this month.

Similarly, cancer treatment can frequently alter body image and many patients expressed an interest in styling sessions to boost confidence. These are currently being developed and were launched in late summer.

In May, Look Good Feel Better introduced new Virtual Workshops for Men, in association with leading professional wet shave expert Mark Sproston (aka The Shave Doctor).

Regular workshops for up to eight participants are available by signing up at

lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk

Visit our shop and see what gifts we have on offer and visit: lookgoodfeelbetter. co.uk/donate/ to make a donation.

The workshops focus on practical, down-to-earth skincare, shaving and grooming advice, bringing it directly into the homes of men undergoing any form of cancer treatment. They also provide a supportive environment, helping people feel less alone, as well as boosting self-esteem.

If you would like to find out more about how you can support Look Good Feel Better please visit the website or checkout:

Hair and styling focused workshops launching soon Look Good Feel Better listen carefully to their beneficiaries in order to provide the services that cancer patients really need. There

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READER RECOMMENDED UK 2020

Get Creative BLUSH | B E A U T Y

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products ty u a e b 7 se e th h it w

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NIPPLE CREAM ON LIPS:

You can dip a brush into make-up paint and flick freckles on the face to create random specks – this can be a bit tricky, so practise.

You could use an eyebrow pencil and lightly dot over the bridge of the nose and cheeks too. Eye-shadow (Bare Minerals have great palettes) has great results, if you apply foundation first, then use the jagged edge of a brush with eyeshadow in a medium brown – making sure you create the freckles in various shapes and sizes for authenticity.

If it is nourishing enough for our sore nipples and gentle enough for the delicate contact of a baby, then imagine the lip attention we can get from it? Try Lansinoh HPA Lanolin and check other brands before using to ensure they are hypoallergenic and safe prior to applying to sore, cracked or dry lips for a caring, glossy finish.

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EYE SHADOW FOR FAUXFRECKLES:

VASELINE FOR SHINE:

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COCONUT OIL FOR EVERYWHERE: Use to add nourishing shine on hair, body, and lips.

This is great to add shine to the arch of your eyebrows for a dewy fresh-faced look. Or apply liberally to your lips – with or without lipstick.

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GLITTER ANYWHERE:

Use glitter on the eyes, hair, lips, or cheekbones for added fun, glitz and glam.

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LIPSTICK ON EYELIDS:

Lipstick comes in such vibrant shades, so get creative and dab it over your eyelids.

You can even apply strongly to your lips, and then take the pigment from the lips using your fingertips and adding to your eyelids in order to create a tonal effect.

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MASCARA FOR EYEBROWS: If you want to be minimal or you run out of your eyebrow pencil or gel – then just use your mascara. Ensure the brush is quite clean and only has a little bit of product on it – brush upwards and allow mascara to dry before brushing it off.

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BOWIE

beauty

There is no doubt that David Bowie was an inspiring public figure to many – not only for his music, fashion sense and sense of humour, but also for his iconic artistic make-up... bringing his extrinsic looks into modern day wearable beauty can be tricky as we have to avoid going over the top and looking more fancy-dress than subtle star... Kelli Waldock tells us how to achieve a glowing Bowie look:

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Model: Danielle | Make-up: Kelli Waldock kelliwaldock.co.uk | Hair: V-Team | Photographer: Samantha Jones samanthajonesphotography.co.uk

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Sweet T hi ng

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The cheeks are key to this look; contour the cheek bones with a bronze blusher, then apply a peachy-bronze tone to add warmth.

before Make-up:

rs

Airbrush

2

Use an eye primer on the lids, this reduces any redness or obvious veins, and provides a neutral base for the shadow.

3

Begin by applying a neutral/beige eyeshadow on top of the primer, taking it up to the brow line, before applying a peachy eyeshadow all over the lid remaining within the socket line.

4

Apply a bronze/copper tone eyeshadow to bring depth to colour on the lid, mainly staying in the middle of the socket and bringing it out towards the edge of the eye. Take the bronze shadow underneath the eye along the lower lash line.

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Pink

Rebel Rebel Hair: Straighten hair, and create a side parting, before sleeking it back into a really neat low ponytail, securing with pins. Add a braid hairband in your hair’s natural colour for a seventies’ vibe.

Shadow

1

Moisturise skin with light product, before applying primer to add as a great base for your perfect blend of Airbase Airbrushing Foundation. Build up for a natural, but flawless complexion.

T he Dreame

Changes

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Blusher

5

Add a glittery/shimmery gold shadow over the top in the inner corner of the eye, this gives that iconic Bowie stardust look.

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Define the brows using brow powder a shade darker than your hair colour, and add light highlighter under the brows with a small flat brush, to make the shadow stand out even more.

ings Shapes of T h

Eyeshado

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Apply a pale peach lipstick, with lots of clear gloss to add shimmer, shine and fullness.

T he Prettiest Sta

Pony tail

Hair

r

As an option: You can apply a pink lip, instead of peach, ensure you add some pink blush instead of peachy-bronze to balance this out.

As an option: Use a clip-in fringe and curly side bun from Balmain. This can give a fuller look with the hair and disguise any thin hair during treatment or recovery.

Shining Sta

r

w

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Add dark brown or black mascara to upper and lower lashes.

Before hair

Heroes

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GLAM

Hair

Don’t care! sevenstarmedia.co.uk

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It is fast approaching the festive season – which means parties, work-dos, dates, shopping trips and even virtual gettogethers. And when it comes to your hairstyling for any of these occasions, nothing can be too glam! Keep the make-up nice and neutral, with only a slight shimmer or pop of colour, because you don’t want it to steal the show. And when it comes to accessories – less is more too, so opt for a pair of stud earrings as opposed to chandeliers hanging from your earlobes.

Styling hair is an art form, and it can be a bit intimidating to attempt an intricate up-do, so here are some valuable tips:

TIP 1: Wash your hair, but add lots of dry shampoo before styling, this means the hair will look clean and smell fresh, but the product will help the workability of the hair.

TIP 2: Add hair extensions that will give you more hair to work with.

TIP 3: Use plenty of grips and cross them over in pairs to secure firmly. Also make sure you use the grips underneath and behind sections of the hair-do so it looks neatly done.

TIP 4: Cheat, and scoop your hair back in a neat bun and add a pre-styled clip-on.

TIP 5: Plan the style you are going for – even draw it beforehand and definitely practise it before you actually do it for a night out.

TIP 6: With braids, create them tight to begin with so they are neat and secure, and either dress them in a style or pull sections out to create a slightly messy boho look.

TIP 7: Add plenty of shine holding spray after you have secured the hairstyle.

Remember it doesn’t matter if you are wearing ripped jeans or a cocktail dress, just be sure to make your look all about the hair.

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SHOOT CREDITS: Hairstylist: @vicki_lord_hair Photographer: @stoyanovjones Make-up Artist: @annemariesimak

REGARDLESS OF WHERE YOU ROAM, EVEN IF YOU REMAIN AT HOME, TREAT YOUR HAIR TO A STYLE THAT IS FABULOUS!

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Golden Rose sevenstarmedia.co.uk

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ng Arty

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Getting arty with make-up, certainly doesn’t mean using every colour available in all your palettes or raiding the local arts and craft shop for all the glitter you can glue onto your skin. It means careful experimentation and owning the vibe you decide on.

Golden

Rose

Darker skins can carry strong pigments, so opt for deep lipsticks like this burgundy hue and add loads of high-sheen gloss. For a strong arty look, ensure the eyebrows are defined using a shade darker than your hair colour. Use a stencil for ultimate definition.

Add some black liner and mascara. The art element to this look is matching the metallic copper shadow to the hair – which can be achieved with coloured sprays. Ensure you finish this look with lots of bronzer.

Use less gloss and bronzer for the rosy look, and more highlighting of the cheekbones, brow-arch and the inner eye – even lightly down the nose. The brows are natural with slight definition on the arch. Add short, separated lashes (try magnetic ones for less mess) and apply mascara to top and bottom lashes. Lips are matte nude to contrast with the highlighting. The eyeshadows are neutral tones – Be sure to blend some of the colour beneath the lower lash-line.

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Rose

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SHOOT CREDITS: Make-up Artist: Maria Jose @_the.beautypod Photographer, Editor, Creative Designer and Wardrobe Stylist: Adanna Obinna visualsbyadanna.com @chasinaesthetics Golden Model: Julia Ahmed @uuniquenesss Rose Model: Emily Leseberg @ememms

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Jessica’s Story BLUSH | B E A U T Y

Hi, I’m Jessica Toomey, an architect from Cardiff. I was diagnosed with Hodgkin Lymphoma on 26th February, just before the world went into lockdown as a result of Covid-19. This was six months after my wonderful wedding in Italy to my husband Adam. Our lovely daughter Angelica is nearly two and is a lively and happy girl, who brightens every day and means the world to me and Adam. She is the main reason I force myself to get out of bed each day, even though I’m often feeling awful…

W

hen I was initially told I had Hodgkin Lymphoma, my first thought was would my treatment be delayed because of the risk of Covid-19?

But due to the seriousness of my diagnosis, being Stage 3, and being a blood cancer, it was more of a threat not to start treatment straightaway than to run the risk of contracting Covid-19. I started chemotherapy one week before we went into lockdown, following painful condensed fertility treatment undertaken over ten days, which thankfully was a success.

All my life I had been ‘Jessica, with the big ginger hair’ and always received compliments on the length and colour of my hair. So one of the worst things for me was being told by my oncologist that I would definitely lose my hair as a result of the chemotherapy. I did not want my hair it to go to waste, especially if it could help another patient, so I had it cut off before my treatment began and donated it to a cancer hair charity.

Due to the impact of Covid-19, I was unable to go to any support sessions and felt very alone, overwhelmed, and

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isolated. It was a family friend, who had previously taken part in one of the faceto-face Look Good Feel Better workshops, who recommended I look them up. I visited the website and saw they are now running their services online and immediately signed up for a virtual workshop.

I was initially very tentative, but when I joined the virtual workshop, I was massively relieved as I had so many things in common with the other ladies on the call. One lady was recently married and another lady had a young daughter just like me. Right from the start, there was so much we could all relate to, which put us at ease really quickly. The beautyexpert host explained the format of the two-hour session and from that moment onwards we all copied what she was doing and had fun along the way.

I have never really been too keen on make-up so I found the advice very helpful and I picked up a lot of tips, especially how to deal with the loss of my eyebrows.

During my treatment my only venture to the ‘outdoors’ was when I went to hospital, accompanied by my lovely mother, for my weekly appointments. I made sure I had my make-up on, it just helps me feel more in control of me, and in turn I feel more empowered and determined.

Attending the workshop really was a key moment for me as I had lost my

identity. As a young woman I can honestly say that Look Good Feel Better has helped build my confidence over recent months and what this has meant to me during such a difficult time is incredible.

During these times we need as much of a boost as we can get.

I would definitely do it all over again as it was such an uplifting experience and we all left the session with happy, relaxed smiles on our faces.

I am still undergoing treatment and can’t wait for the day when it’s all finished. I have everything crossed that my scan results will bring me and my family some good news.

If you’re going through treatment yourself or know of anyone else who is, please tell them about Look Good Feel Better.

I know the charity is really struggling financially through this crisis but they are expanding their online sessions to include ones on hair/wig advice/head coverings; nailcare and hopefully body image/styling in the coming months. Look Good Feel Better really does what its name says it will, and it made a huge difference to me.

Regular workshops for up to eight participants are available by signing up on their website lookgoodfeelbetter.co.uk | For further information please call 01372 747500

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And it’s clear you haven’t compromised on the sustainability values?

No way. Throwaway just isn’t an option for so many reasons. Molecule Masks are self-cleaning and odour-shielding, built to last and do not even require throwaway filters, which makes them one of the most sustainable personal protection solutions available on the market. And with a price point of between £20-£30 this is a safe investment.

We can see they look stylish, but what have you done to add comfort?

The masks are designed with a focus on fit and comfort, as well as look.

Our rear-fastening masks fit snugly on the face, around the ears and under the chin for extra comfort. And as I mentioned the fabric is three-layer.

There is also comfort in knowing the masks are anti-bacterial and self-cleaning. We are living through unprecedented times, so it is at least good to know that our masks are keeping us safe.

ASK! BLUSH ask the Molecule Mask team about the new lifestyle change of maskwearing…

It looks like we could be swapping wearing our favorite lipsticks for wearing masks on our next shopping trips, how best are we to do this?

By wearing a comfortable, effective mask, and one that doesn’t feel like apart of a medical uniform!

Our team of creative craftspeople

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have a combined sixty years of experience in textiles and the manufacturing industry, and we have conceived and manufactured the Molecule Masks to not only protect the wearer against 99.99% of viruses with the threelayer breathable technical nano-fabric – treated with HeiQ’s specialist antiviral treatment (Viroblock) – but to also be comfortable and stylish… because we shouldn’t have to compromise either.

moleculemasks.com For more information please see: heiq.com/technologies/heiqviroblock

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T

Art

he doctor struggled to tell me the ‘bad news’, but I remained calm and very grounded. I recall spending my birthday thinking where and how will I be next year?

It was my second time diagnosed with cancer. The first time was back in 2010 with Melanoma, after a small surgery with local anesthesia, no further treatment was needed. This alone taught me that life can be challenging; made up of ups and downs, and when we fall into a problem, we have to stand up again. We have to face it, learn from it, and keep moving.

Beating Breast Cancer would be one more challenge, and a great learning process in my life. I guess the combination of my job together with my spiritual journey, generated the strength needed to face those kind of battles without fear.

Being a nurse helps me to understand the fragile nature of the human body and that cancer, is a possibility for anyone.

The lumpectomy went well, without complications, and I came back home the same day. I accepted immediately the idea of radiotherapy, but I was reluctant to have chemotherapy due to the aggressive nature of the treatment, as well as all the unpleasant sideeffects. I live a very holistic lifestyle based on yogic principles, meditation, a vegan diet, and natural therapies to bring back the balance. I was concerned that my body wouldn’t be dealing well with those chemicals.

Living OF I felt free of the idea that I have to look beautiful to the eyes of others

Kamala My name is Kamala, and in May 2019, I was informed by the doctor that I possibly had Breast Cancer based on the result of a routine mammogram. The biopsy was done the following month, and confirmed that I had left BC, initially grade 2 and the next step would be surgery – But after surgery, the results confirmed a very aggressive type of cancer – grade 3…

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Then I came to the realisation that the bigger enemy was inside of me – poisoning me even more – my body had to be stopped! I accepted to go along with the treatment to fight this battle. I felt like a newborn baby during chemotherapy, because all my cells were renewing. The symptoms were controlled with medication and I never felt bad about my image. Before the hair fell out, I shaved my head and started looking at myself as a different kind of beauty. I never rejected my image, not even when the eyelashes and eyebrows were falling out. I felt free of the idea that I have to look beautiful to the eyes of others.

I refused to wear wigs or make-up or false eyelashes – although I understand the reasons why this may be important or helpful to others going through treatment. I wanted to be myself – the way I was, and still I am!

Currently, I’m on Herceptin Intravenous till next January… so it is a long run of recovery. And sending love to myself has been a very important part of my treatment.

Coincidently, when I did radiotherapy, they took me inside of a room called Venus (the planet of Love), this was a sign for me.

Nothing is forever, everything is a cycle, and if there is a beginning, there is also an end. Living means you go with the flow, accepting whatever comes in your life – even if it’s difficult – as a positive experience. Trying to learn from everything, but not falling into drama of it all. Surviving is different to living; as we are hanging onto the problems, stressed, living in fear, not aware of the beauty of existence. It’s wrong when people think that life should be made only of good things – How can we learn then from just one side?

Experiences like this one for myself can be seen as good, because they help us as souls to elevate towards an inner journey that is needed to grow as spiritual beings. Faith and love are two important ingredients to take along the journey, because they will make us see the light when crossing through the tunnel.

Paramahamsa Vishwananda says, “-people like to hang onto their problems and onto their worries.

Whenever a problem arises, the solution is also

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there, but mankind usually focus on the problem rather than the solution”.

The teachings of my spiritual master Paramahamsa Vishwananda and the path of kriya yoga, gave me the acceptance, the inner strength and the equanimity needed in this situation. “Don’t hang on to negative things in life,” he says. “-They are part of life! You have to go through it! But know that in every moment, God is next to you. Develop this relationship! Love Him! Trust Him! …

Changes start now, when you are aware of yourself, and when you are aware of how you are looking at things…

Let the love awaken inside of you and let it grow…”

I reflected about myself and I came across a question that I needed to find the answer to — For the second time in my life, my body was working against me and going into a process of self-destruction, so what could I do to help me?

I realised that I was always looking for perfection, and very judgmental and negative about myself – not loving ‘me’ enough. I was very strict with myself. I understood that my body was not working against me, but actually being a reflection of all my thoughts. The mind is so powerful, whatever you think creates a certain kind of energy that can be constructive or destructive. Love is our natural state. The cancer turned into a good experience, showing me how to live my life better, to love myself more and to be less judgmental about me. I decided not to cry at my own misery, but to change instead; to forgive me, to love me and to pay more attention to my thoughts. As I learned from my master, “whatever you do with love will always be perfect”.

From your experience and understanding can you outline the difference between living and surviving? How will your personal definition support your recovery process? sadhana.bhaktimarga.org/atmakriya-yoga

Being a nurse helps me to understand the fragile nature of the human body

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would love to work with recovering addicts. Also, I’ve been working on a book about my life.

Will you share some art in the chapters of your autobiography?

I will definitely incorporate my art with the story in the book.

ART Therapy For Georgina Baillie, art has helped her overcome life’s challenges – she shares her story…

How did art touch your life?

I loved art at school and had great teachers until my A-Levels, when one teacher didn’t seem to like my work and discouraged me. Also I am not academic in any way – so I didn’t want to write essays about art, I just wanted to do it.

I put the pencil down in 2003, and I didn’t pick it up again until after my first stint in rehab – where I mentally unpacked a lot of difficult stuff and needed to expel it somehow.

Was art a part of therapy for you? Or did you pick it up again because you had gone 28

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through rehab and realised it had been lost during your school days?

As part of therapy definitely; we did art and I found myself suddenly able to express my feelings again.

How else can people experience your art?

Recently I have started doing tiny commissions for people like women sending me their photos to be drawn as one of my ‘French girls’ – I love drawing the female form because I love how every woman has something different and I like expressing her energy through a picture.

I didn’t want to write essays about art

Did it then make you reflect on what that teacher had said?

I started to look at art differently, not like something that needed to be graded anymore. I knew that my skills were stunted, so my early drawings (in 2017) were cartoon-like – But it didn’t matter to me, as long as I could see how I was feeling on the page in front of me and share it with others.

What path are you on with art?

Art to me, is a personal thing. It was a huge surprise to be asked to draw people. It’s a dream isn’t it really? But I am currently studying counselling and

How do you feel about parting with a final piece?

I mainly sell screen prints of my work and keep the originals – I don’t know if I could part with them! But I love the response I get for my work when people comment that they got some emotional relief through identification, just by looking at them.

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Can you describe your work and how you go about creating a piece?

I use pencil and paint or I screen paint. I take a photo of it and in true millennial style, (I was born in 1985 so I am the oldest of the millennial), I then tweak it so it creates the atmosphere I want.

They finally get screen printed.

Do you think you have to travel through hardship to achieve your dream?

I love drawing the female form

I usually start by a picture coming into my head when I have been talking about a certain subject in therapy, and then a way to express it comes to me – I have to do it pretty soon after, otherwise it vanishes.

I am a sum of my experiences, I wouldn’t be the version of myself without travelling this exact route full of extreme highs and crushing lows. And this is reflected in my artwork. Each piece does relate to a chapter in my life.

Follow on Instagram: @georgielondonart

Selection from touring as a singer with Adam Ant

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My most recent piece ‘Hole in the Soul 2020’ on Canvas 46cm x 60cm

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The most beautiful thing Blake Lively

you can wear is confidence.

Proud to support Blush Magazine

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Autumn A Winter 2020 Trends

Velvet Daydream, Scandi Farmhouse, Industrial Loft & Luxe Living

Furniture Village Homebird Sofa, £995 | Torrence Coffee Table, £329 | Bubble Floor Lamp, £224

Trend:

fter a summer of shuffling our homes around to adhere to a ‘new normal’, Furniture Village is here to ease us into the season ahead and walk us through how to make subtle changes to your living spaces this autumn/winter.

Over the last few months our homes have had to transform into multifunctional spaces that also serve as home offices, play areas and home-schooling stations, often at the expense of order and style.

However, as winter wakes up and summer draws its curtains, now is the perfect time to make your home as warm, welcoming, stylish, and practical as possible. This year, Furniture Village has changed things up slightly by showcasing how each autumn/ winter trend can be translated throughout the whole home; from living and dining rooms, through to the bedroom. It’s all part of its new Home in One campaign, which celebrates the breadth of design that you’ll find at Furniture Village.

From bold spaces filled with luxury finishes and bright block colours, to softer schemes that celebrate calming colours and organic shapes, Furniture Village have all the ideas and inspiration you need for the season ahead.

Furniture Village Homebird Snuggler, £895

VELVET DAYDREAM

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ffering a contemporary twist on last year’s 70’s style, ‘Velvet Daydream’ offers a playful and inviting scheme. Using fully saturated colours and an array of luxury finishes and textures, this look is all about reaching for a romantic escape inside our own homes. A palette of warm sunset tones is paired with cooler shades of denim, teal and grey to create balance and depth. Statement velvet upholstery is at the heart of each space and creates a structure around which the rest of the room can be styled. As you can see, this look is all about layering. This means it can be built up as much or as little as you want.

Whether it’s across walls, soft furnishings or accessories, colour blocking is key and will help any room feel clean and up-to-date.

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Furniture Village Javier Bed, £749 (detail)

Furniture Village Javier Bed, £749 | Connection Large Fabric Drum Footstool | £215 Bubble Table Lamp, £169

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Trend:

SCANDI FARMHOUSE

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ontinuing Furniture Village’s love affair with tactile velvets and unstructured layering, the ‘Scandi Farmhouse’ look takes us down the path of a trend that grows each year. Finding new avenues, this look is an ode to slow living and soft neutral colours, creating a cool, calm and perfect look for autumn/ winter. Natural wood finishes in an array of attractive tones sit alongside delicate putty shades and rich evergreens to create a palette that captures the colours of the season. In tribute to Scandinavian simplicity, the furniture features clean unfussy lines, combining metal and wood to create practical, yet aesthetically pleasing shapes.

Dried palm fronds and foliage connect the spaces back to nature and handcrafted accessories add further to the organic themes in this design-led trend.

Furniture Village Bronwyn Sofa, £1104

Furniture Village Bronwyn Sofa, £1104 | Nordic Coffee Table, £299

Furniture Village Earth Dining Table, £499 | Earth Dining Bench, £259 | Earth Pair of Dining Chairs, £269

Furniture Village Nordic Coffee Table, £299

Furniture Village ercol Ella Sideboard, £795

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Trend:

INDUSTRIAL LOFT

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ore popular than ever this season, the ‘Industrial Loft’ trend combines statement designs in wood and metal with an on-trend palette of earthy brown hues, ranging from burnt umber to lighter shades of fawn.

While offering a slightly softer take on classic industrial style, this look still includes all the elements that you would expect.

Raw materials such as oak, steel and leather abound throughout each space across a striking collection of contemporary designs that are perfect for loft living. The furniture is simple, but beautiful design details such as x-frames, button-backs and natural wood finishes ensure that it’s far from plain. Carefully curated accessories in tonal shades and curvaceous organic shapes help to soften and blur the heavier elements of the look to create a gentle space that’s filled with character.

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Furniture Village Earth Ladder Shelving Unit, £499 | Spotlight Floor Lamp, £449

Furniture Village Habufa Detroit Starburst Table, 4 Detroit Dining Chairs, £2195 | Noir Shelving Unit, £749

Furniture Village Alexander and James Brixton 4 Seater Leather Sofa, £2295 | Toldeo Lamp Table, £159 | Sona Tripod Lamp, £99 | Varrick Rug, £499

Furniture Village Todelo Lamp Table, £159

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BLUSH | A D V E R T O R I A L Furniture Village Chennai Dining Table, 4 Dining Chairs, £1995 | Constellation Console Table, £599 | Larrisa Lamp, £99

Furniture Village Chennai Shelving Unit, £799

Furniture Village Vispring Elite Pocket Sprung Divan, £1999 | Vispring Helios Headboard, £699 | Winchester Side Tables, £399 | Canvas, £159

Trend:

LUXE LIVING

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or those looking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication, ‘Luxe Living’ provides all the inspiration you need for a glamorous seasonal update. Combining mirrored furniture with high-shine metallics, glass tabletops and luxury velvet upholstery, each room lends itself perfectly to formal living spaces. Both gold and silver finishes are mixed to create a balance of warmer and cooler tones and a palette of grown-up chalky blue hues subtly enhances these finishes by providing contrast and depth.

Refined features such as studded chair backs, polished stainless-steel legs and sleek glass tops help this trend to feel cool and contemporary. Fabrics with a soft shimmer will also add a delicate lustre to the space helping it to feel both stylish and inviting.

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iece together your autumn/ winter interior plans by visiting Furniture Village’s website, where you’ll find ‘The Home of Inspiration’. Here, you’ll discover a wealth of articles dedicated to home updates, such as how to introduce seasonal colours, what to consider when purchasing a new bed, dining table, sofa, or expanding your home office, as well as keeping you up to date with the latest interior trends.

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WORDS OR...

ON ART...

Poem and Painting

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An oil painting called Rage by Russell Hand

mutter, a whisper, a cry, a mark, a trace, a scream, a shout, something; discard, abject, assumed, sublime, critical, overlooked, a mediation, a context, a moment, a presence, a thought; of being, of absence, exuberant, joyous, bubbling, patient, resonant, saturation, quiet, suspension, political, captivating, curious, seductive, disturbing, mesmerising, philosophical, transform, overwhelm, restless, ephemeral...

A text whose reading starts as understandable but seems to blur and twist, to become illegible out of focus, to take us to some ‘other’; starts as illegible,

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unreadable and twists us to shape, to thought, to thinking, to breathe, to laugh, to life, to being...

Something light, heavy, dense, gaseous, transparent, shiny, soft, hard, opaque, beautiful, mundane, mysterious, luminous, repulsive, familiar, different, attracting, glowing, insubstantial, monolithic, everyday, svelte, substantial, fluid...

Art... something to open the mind and heart…

Art… to see… to think… to be… to connect… to feel…

Art… visual… beautiful… sound... thoughts… breathing… being…

Art…

By Russell Hand (words 1996 © ® painting 1991© ®

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ART of accepting DEATH

Celebrant and one of the few female toastmasters in the country, Kelly-Marie Thompson, talks funerals and grieving

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eddings are wonderful, because I work with couples to create unique and loving ceremonies. And secular Naming Days (similar to Christenings) are also a joy…

Yet, much of my work involves Funerals. I suppose I’ve become aware of how little we prepare for death and feel lucky to be able to help people prepare for it on a much more human level, instead of jargon and unspoken consequences. That’s what inspired me to study thanatology – more simply, death and its psychological and social impact. I’ve always been interested in death from a young age due to a friend who died when I was five and like many, I have experienced death and losses that I needed to be able to understand on a deeper level – that’s what inspired my decision to study it and to recognise ways to embrace ritual as a means of managing change and upheaval in our personal situations.

For funerals, it’s important for most families that the person who had died is talked about, appreciated, and goodbyes are said. Every funeral is completely unique - no two funerals are the same, just as no two people are. There are

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overwhelming emotions within a funeral service, and they all need to be managed. The experience can be complex in terms of dynamics of families and extended families. We must also remember that not everyone wants a life to be celebrated and not all deaths are a celebration of life, especially if it’s a baby, child or someone that spent a lifetime suffering. These can be emotionally really challenging. It is important as a celebrant to be both empathic and professional, as this family are trusting you with a very important milestone, it must be exactly what they want. Music, readings, poems, songs, anything goes, and can be expected. For some services I also am required to blend religious thoughts, feelings or rituals and this can be very interesting, my latest one contains Buddhist elements.

Funerals and bereavement vary so much in western society, and every sub-culture has its own set of rules and rituals. It helps to speak to someone who has a broad knowledge of these and then find out what fits with you and your family. There is no, one-fits-all package; the key is allowing people to be creative and do it their way.

In the West, we are fixated on the idea that funerals must be held at the graveside or at the crematorium. This is not the case, by having a funeral at an alternative venue, not only is it normally cheaper but there are no time restraints, so it allows more creative licence for the family.

For some, the death of a loved one brings a whole lot of change to the bereaved as maybe their life role has changed, their family position, and their financial status. So many things can happen all at once when someone dies,

There are overwhelming emotions within a funeral service, and they all need to be managed

and we are never truly prepared. I work with a local hospice as a bereavement volunteer and visit clients that have lost a loved one and work with them over an eight-week period. During this time, I do a lot of listening, debunking myths, and looking at ways forward for them. A lot of people are under the impression that they have to move on, they should be over it now, or they are not grieving properly. My role is to normalise the feelings that they are having and look at not getting over the death but moving forward with it. It’s challenging work as not everyone is ready to move forward, these people should not be rushed, coping strategies are important as well as a support system.

Kelly-Marie’s advice if you have experienced a recent bereavement: Speak to someone, if you cannot talk to or don’t want to burden your family, look elsewhere. There is a great resource online called griefchat.com which offers independent advice and guidance.

If not, call me. No one should go through it alone, no matter how much of a loner you are, some things need to be shared, this is one of them.

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Art of

Being Stuck I come from a family of workaholics – We chase goals, solve problems, fix wrongs, strive to be better, do more. Always on our way to the next destination… You too?

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odern technology encourages us to do rather than to be. Even when queuing up at the supermarket, we answer emails, check Twitter or mindlessly scroll through Instagram.

When did you last pause? And what did you notice when you did?

Research by psychologist Timothy Wilson and colleagues at University of Virginia and Harvard University suggests that many of us feel uncomfortable to be alone with our own thoughts. Some of us rather give ourselves a mild electric shock than sit and ‘do nothing’. Isn’t that weird?

Stuckness is uncomfortable, and finding an escape route is tempting — like catching up on Facebook, scrolling through our Twitter feed, or playing a game of Solitaire or Candy Crush.

But escaping rarely helps solve stuckness The Navy Seals test their ability to deal with stuckness by ‘drown-proofing’ — their feet are bound together, their hands are tied behind their back, and they’re thrown into a nine-foot-deep pool (never try this!).

Last year, I nearly fell to pieces At the time, I blamed my breakdown on a failed swimming experiment – But in truth, years of chronic pain and fatigue had eroded my resilience. As a doer, I push my boundaries all the time, and when I pushed too far, I crashed and felt like my life was falling apart. What if I never get my old energy back? I was afraid of losing myself.

For several years, I’ve practised mindfulness, and it has helped me deal with my writing frustrations. Instead of escaping, I know how to stay with my stuckness, find a way through, and stick to writing.

When we learn to sit with our discomfort, we can approach our stuckness with a sense of curiosity. What are we feeling? How is our body reacting?

When we connect with ourselves, we can find a surprising sense of inner calmness, even amidst dark chaos or despair. When we are prepared to listen rather than run away, we can hear the whispers of our heart and pay attention to the wisdom of our soul.

Slowly, I am learning that what I do — or how much or how little I do — doesn’t define who I am. I’m learning to be more comfortable with being. With being fearful, being sad, even with being happy.

I’m learning to just be.

By Henneke enchantingmarketing.com

Doing is easier than being Doing gives us a sense of control. Yet, the ability to be on our own with our thoughts is key to creativity. To solve problems, we have to embrace the discomfort of being stuck.

To solve Fermat’s Last Theorem (a 400-year old puzzle!), mathematician Andrew Wiles had to get through seven years of stuckness. As Ben Orlin writes on his blog Math with Bad Drawings, ‘mathematicians struggle with math problems just like third graders do, but they’ve learned to sit with this stuckness’.

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Amazingly, the key to their survival is not strength, not endurance, not even their ability to swim. Author Mark Manson describes how the key to survival is to let yourself sink to the bottom of the pool, and then gently push off to get back to the surface to catch a breath. So, the key is to stop doing and to just be.

Our human instinct is to fight; to try to untie our strings, to take control, to do.

But sometimes it’s better to do nothing and to stay with our fears until a solution shows itself.

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Art of Trading

The Profit Room is a stock market, trading and educational company focused on helping people build wealth through the financial markets: ‘Freedom Traders’ are self-reliant and independent – including single mums — profiting from the markets on their own…

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ne of our goals is to teach people how to control their financial investments and regain their ‘time freedom’.

For the most part, we are all taught a structure that revolves around a 9am-5pm work schedule and ‘work’ does not have to be that way.

Trading in the markets allows the time freedom to accommodate different lifestyles.

For example, when I started trading for a living, I traded only for two hours to accommodate life with my young daughters.

The remainder of my day was spent enjoying my time engaging and creating fun memorable experiences with them. Learning how to trade in the markets is beneficial for single mums due to the fact that you can create your own schedule. Often times, I would encounter single mums who were working part-time jobs in addition to their full-time job and had no time to spare, however those who chose the path to fit time in to learning the skill of trading were able to replace that part-time job. The realisation settled in that they were able to make more money in less time and have more time to

spare for themselves and their kids.

Anyone can do the Financial Markets; whether that be Stocks, Options Forex or Commodities. The markets do not discriminate against sex or race, and you are in full control of what direction you decide to take. You do not need to be good at mathematics, which is often a misconception.

You do not need a lot of money to start, all you need in the beginning is the dedication and about thirty-minutes a day to commit to the learning process.

COVID-19 has shocked many people across the world. Businesses were impacted and people’s jobs were effected. But the Financial Markets remained intact.

I experienced the housing crash in 2008,

and what people failed to realise that there were many millionaires created during the market crash. There is money to be made in the markets when it moves up or down.

As traders, we are able to adapt to the different market conditions and make money regardless of the direction; this is our mission to bring more awareness to the benefits of learning how to trade has been crucial.

Governments have been trying to prop up the markets by injecting money into it through the federal reserve, while every-daypeople are still out of work, most businesses are still closed and the pandemic funds are nearly at the end of its term. Trading will not solve major problems when it comes to the pandemic, but it helps when you have the skill and ability to make money regardless of the chaos.

Three top tips for learning trading: Tip 1: Find Your ‘Why’... This one can be easy; our greatest reason to do certain things is because we are mothers. Kids give us that reason to pursue things outside of our own comfort zone.

My kids allowed me to achieve a lot of success in the markets because I used them as my sense of purpose.

Tip 2: Time Management is important! Learning the markets is just like learning how to play an instrument, it takes time, and dedication, but thirty-minutes a day goes a long way! I studied when my daughters were asleep at night.

Tip 3: Download any APP – that provides news about what is going on with the economy. The markets and the economy are heavily correlated. The more you understand about the markets you will begin to piece together how they impact the economy and vice versa. It’s a great way to start the learning process.

Social media links: FB: @theprofitroom IG: @theprofitroom Twitter: @theprofitroom YouTube: youtube.com/theprofitroom

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ART OF

BUSINESS in 2020 and beyond…

Here’s a snappy list of 2020 business trends... in no particular order ... so read them all!

1. Mindfulness

3. Plastic-free

Not exactly the same as meditation – it just means to be aware of your actions before and as you do them – consider what you are doing at all times! More #mindfulness apps have been, and will continue to be integrated into the working world.

In support of #sustainability – Plastic has been an increasing problem that businesses are paying attention to, so introduce one thing each month to reduce your single-use plastic.

2. Sustainability Across fashion, across lifestyle, and across business – if it’s green and eco then it’s worth a try. #Reuse and #Recycle everything except ideas. This includes the continuing of more people working from home office.

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4. Grow 50 Shades of Grey Gracefully!

Through no choice of our own – we’ve had to ditch the dye in 2020, for either home dyes or allow grey hair to shine like little stars of wisdom – This has been a #hairtrend for a few years – even those not naturally grey are dying it that way – so embrace it for the office too!

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10. Virtual Piggy Banks

We’ve all got a book in us! If you’ve got industry expertise to share – just jot it all down, get it edited and #selfpublish for the world to read and learn from.

A controversial subject amongst many – but there will be a rise in those investing in #digitalcurrencies – they just may not shout about it, plus there have been rumours that soon the world will be cashless – sometimes feels like we are living in a science fiction movie!

6. Deactivate Insta This trend has already been rolling out for some months, then during lockdown, Instagram was many a person’s best buddy – But still consider having a break from your Instagram newsfeed and just keep those #stories regular – they’ll have more impact and engagement.

7. Runway-to-Office Wear Choose a touch of #neon, block colour with other bold colours, and polka dots are back (which we saw last issue). Wear statement bright shoes paired with neutral two-piece suits. And opt for wearing outfits that can work for the office and with a little adjustment could be show-stopping at a party after work. See inspiration on page 55.

8. A.I. It’s likely that more Artificial Intelligence will be leaping literally into our businesses – improving customer experience and taking over the world (Do you think #AI will ever replace personal customer service? – Not a chance!).

9. E-commerce It has been a steady climb for shopping online over the years – but with all the retail options available combined with generally good delivery services, not to mention the periods of closure during times of restriction – this has been, and will continue to be the #shoppingtherapy of choice for most from now on.

Consider having a break from your Instagram newsfeed

11. Get Personal We’ve gone full circle with #communication – so it’s important to call, video group chat and email stakeholders directly – don’t just send out a bulk social media message or a generic newsletter, especially because face-to-face is dwindling.

12. Reviews Word of mouth can still work online and is the strongest way to promote your business – services and products – so get your clients to leave #reviews on your socials and on search engines.

13. Pass Me the Remote More people are going to be working remotely with flexible hours – remember to keep any of your #remote contractors or employees in the loop of communication and have scheduled face-to-face meet-ups even if that’s just via video call.

14. Gigging Along with remote working there has been an increase in businesspeople contracting projects out in the rising #gigeconomy – This is a great way to get niche experts involved to keep things fresh, and work according to individual project budgets.

15. Big for the Small Another controversial subject – but small businesses are likely to have access to #bigdata based on programmes created for niche industry. This is of course for those smaller enterprises that have managed to keep their heads above water in the fluctuating economy this year.

16. From ‘Let’s Booze’ to Less Booze!

Booze and business? We’re referring to the parties and team-building events – It’s less about bubbles in your glass and more about #experiences such as Escape Rooms, or hiking, or even camping trips, virtual concerts or quizzes – and mostly opting for mocktails over cocktails.

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There have been rumours that soon the world will be cashless

17. The Culture Club Being #cultureconscious isn’t just about scheduling those festive get-togethers – it is looking at the day-to-day working lives and environment of the people in your business – and with the cultures having been rocked with homeworking, or furloughing and other restrictions this year, it will be a focus for many businesses.

18. Mentor Assigning #mentors within a business is usally reserved for those in new roles; but more business leaders are going to be seeking mentors external from their industry to support their more structured industry-specific training and to improve their internal working culture.

The mentoring is also a great way for businesses to integrate back into the swing of things after the effects of most of this year.

19. Training Businesspeople globally will understand that #training in all areas of our lives is important – so doing that continual professional development course is one thing, but also add that yoga retreat or art break to your year plans, start a regular new hobby that expands the mind too. If you have staff, maybe introduce something into the working schedule that expands everyone’s skillset!

20. High-five In 2020, our download speeds have been faster and more Internet possibilities are always becoming available to us, and all at our fingertips in seconds thanks to the launch of #5G.

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Author: J P Martin

5. Self Publish

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ART OF Performance The wet weekends of my childhood found me lying in front of film after film on the TV – it was these black and white musicals, war films and (most of all) James Cagney movies that made me want to be an actor. So when I was eight years old, that’s what I decided I would be. I’ve never changed my mind and nearly forty years on, that’s what I’m still doing – My name is Mark Stevenson, and I’m an actor…

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A

s a child, I went to drama clubs at weekends (making my debut wearing a black bin-liner as a tight-rope walking flea), and at school, I focused on drama with support from both teachers and family. This led to a few tours when I was still at school, as well as an amazing experience that I applied for from the back pages of ‘The Stage’ – I was sixteen and living my dream…

I ended up living and working (as the youngest in the company) on a version of ‘Lord of the Rings’ that performed in Cambridge and at The Edinburgh Fringe.

We worked on improvising and devising the whole thing – with four of us telling the story, never knowing from one night to the next who would tell which bit of the tale during the performance. It was so inspirational – almost every piece of work I have done in the ensuing years has been informed by it. It opened me up to exciting ways of working, with actors supporting each other in the moment, and the ability to work with audiences in a direct and exhilarating way.

I then went straight from school to Drama school in Glasgow (helping set up a couple of theatre companies whilst

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there) and then it was on to a film school in Moscow, before returning to Glasgow to start out on my career… and I have struggled and scraped by ever since.

Working in the performing arts means being part of a large community who look out for one another. It gives you licence to emotionally connect with many people and allows you to explore the nature of being human and (hopefully) learn to be a better person through this experience. It gives you a space to tussle with topics and issues from all angles, and sometimes to do this with audiences. It means getting to play every day. This isn’t just an excuse to not grow up, but it’s the chance to have fun and enjoy the whole of life – the workplace especially. This is something

that I completely cherish. As part of my job, I meet new people all the time, and within five minutes we are playing and emotionally sharing. It can be one of the most open, scary and therefore exciting places to be. Every time you enter a new rehearsal room you don’t know what effect it’ll have on the rest of your life, but often it’ll be long-lasting and positive.

I create a lot of work that is interactive and improvised as a way of sharing this excitement with audiences as well – whether that be creating shows in supermarkets, on stage or along the high street, it’s a way of engaging and allowing people to play in safety, whilst emotionally and intellectually connecting with as many people as possible. It’s also about making people laugh. A lot. And often. And being allowed to cry and letting people cry too.

I think that lots of art forms make an impact on you as an individual, but with theatre there is a collective response. It’s the interaction between performers and audiences that make theatre special.

Even if it’s not specifically an ‘interactive’ piece, the audience changes how a show plays every night. The other actors change how you perform, and it’s that exciting balance that makes acting in theatre one of the most exciting things in the world.

I used to work a lot in improvisation, and we were often told to drop yourself in the sh*t and then find a way back out (it always led to the best improv scenes), and I think that’s what acting is – over and over again plunging into possible failure and finding a way through to get out the other side. It’s adrenaline, and energy and huge amounts of shared responsibility. It’s relying completely on your fellow theatre makers and leading your audiences to places that will excite, delight and move them.

Leading your audiences through places that will excite, delight and move them

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The production of ‘Lord of The Rings’ that I mentioned before, was a huge turning point in my career, but there have also been other moments that have defined what I still do today.

I have helped set-up various companies (both in Scotland and London) and this has given me the rare opportunity to work with the same group of actors over and over again – almost like having a ten-year long rep company.

Because of this, I have always expected to have some say in building and creating shows – and if nothing else is happening in my career, I go and make something myself.

When I first moved from Scotland to London I had to start again – nobody recognised any of my theatre credits down south and so I performed for no pay in a double bill of ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and ‘As You Like It’. For the next nine years, I’d say that ninety-percent of my work came via the people I met on that show. Every now and then you just have a show where most of the people keep in touch and recommend you for other productions. It’s one of the brilliant things about the profession, whilst at the same time being one of the worst too.

At the time of writing I have been out of drama school for twenty-six years, and have worked with enough people that someone will always recommend me for a job, but when you’re first starting out it’s more difficult. It was a couple of unpaid shows that led to lots of my contacts. It’s the building up of contacts and tenacity that enables me to keep going.

Often the worst part of being an actor is when you feel you have no control.

When you find it difficult to get work (or even get an audition to try and get work) – and I’ve had months of this when I was younger. It becomes very difficult to motivate yourself to do anything.

And then sometimes when you do get work you can be treated very badly – commercials especially. You normally get a call the day before to go for a casting the next day (whatever else you have going on in your life does not matter to those organising the castings) and then you go to a room full of lots of people

It’s the building up of contacts and tenacity that enables me to keep going

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who look similar to you, and then you perform like a monkey – I’ve been asked to go wearing only a thong, to pretend I’m being devoured by dogs, to pretend to be on the toilet and even been asked to make love to an imaginary person – All whilst someone sits on a sofa looking slightly bored watching you being filmed doing all of the above. At moments like these (and when you’re being asked to work longer, harder and for less money than is strictly legal), you feel helpless. And even with my slowly advancing years I’ve found ways to feel okay about things rather than finding a way to feel truly in control of the situations. This is compounded by the constant (and I do mean constant) search for work. Whenever I meet famous actors I’m always shocked that they are still grappling around to get work, to make ends meet and to continue having a career.

It’s something that never stops.

But the moment of actually doing the job always outweighs any of the difficulty.

It’s a moment when you get to be the most idealised version you have of yourself, or the chance to be another person entirely, with adrenaline coursing through your veins. I’ve had audiences hugging and crying with actors as they performed in supermarkets, I’ve guided hordes of

people on adventures down Deptford High Street, played to thousands of people at The Royal Albert Hall, and shared life stories with people on the north coast of Scotland after they watched the one-man show that I toured there.

But also – what is often ignored when it comes to performance, is the education work many performers do. I’ve aided young people in developing their confidence over and over again. To watch them grow over the course of time that I work with them is amazing. I often work on education projects that have specific drama and social outcomes, but for every single one, the thing I am most proud of, is the development of children and young people to be more confident and to begin to be able to articulate what they want to say, and work with others to do this.

Ninety-five-percent of the time that I work in schools, teachers will say to me at the end of the session that at least one of the children had never thought able to work the way they did and to come out with the things they did. I’ve become almost blasé about it – it gets said to me so often. But using drama and theatre gives everyone a chance to develop – not just those who are educationally gifted. It opens up areas of expression that often are negated in mainstream schooling.

I can’t think of anything else I’d rather be doing.

I feel the most alive and connected with the world when I act.

For Mark’s acting reel: imdb.com/name/nm1317863/

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Paris The Louvre – originally a royal palace – now the home of the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Just walking along the Parisian streets you can experience street artists, and iconic architecture.

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London A visit to the capital, would be a full day out with all that is available from the small exhibitions, to the iconic galleries such as the National Portrait, and the Tate Modern.

7 Places

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Australia has plenty of galleries, including the National Portrait Gallery in the Australian Capital Territory – Canberra – you can see various exhibitions including work from historical points – colonialism, the gold rush – and world famous artists as well as local talent. Australia has an abundance of talented indigenous artists – so seek out the galleries.

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Turkey boasts the Goreme Open Air Museum, view the church and chapel caves from a hot air balloon, and marvel at the Eastern Roman Empire art inside the rocks.

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to visit for

ART LOVERS 6

Tuscany is home to some of the most iconic Renaissance art and architecture, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and breath-taking mountain views.

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New York City’s Museum of Modern Art, more popularly known as MoMA houses fine collections including Vincent van Gogh’s a “The Starry Night”.

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Brazil is cool and cultured when it comes to architecture and the street art: all are visual delights – so capture everything on your camera.

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Drawing the

crowds

THE UK’S BEST ARTISTIC CITIES FOR YOUR WEEKEND GETAWAY!

Premier hen weekend organisers GoHen run through the best art-conscious cities for your suave, sophisticated and stylish weekend away!

5. Glasgow

There are buildings and then there are feats of architecture which in themselves are wondrous pieces of art – Glasgow is littered with the latter. Charles Rennie Mackintosh, the famous architect and painter, left his print across the city, from the impressive Lighthouse (which is unmissable) to magical House of an Art Lover – plenty of artistic splendour to explore. If galleries are more your brushstroke, the Kelvingrove Art Gallery is where you’ll want to head with twenty-two displays showcasing some of the finest art on the planet… oh, and it’s free. Winner!

1. Bristol

The UK home of street art, Bristol is renowned for being a vibrant, bohemian, ultra-cool metropolis which is evident from its stunning murals throughout the city. For any Banksy obsessives, an amble through the streets on the hunt for his amazing displays is a must. And if that’s not enough to quench your arty thirst, the Arnolfini boasts three floors of inspiring modern art and the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery hosts a charming selection of Victorian and Edwardian paintings. As well as art, Bristol also has a passion for cider, a pint of which will be well deserved after all that arty inspiration!

2. London

The National Gallery, National Portrait Gallery, Tate Modern, the Royal Academy of Arts… yes, London’s art scene is stacked. Whatever you’re into – abstract, modern, pop, cubism, impressionist, surrealism, street, sculptures, theatrical performances, architecture – London has it all… and then some!

Whether you spend the day insatiably exploring galleries, chalking off the street art of Shoreditch and Camden, or soaking up the sights and superb architecture, you’ll be suitably inspired to finally put paint to paper or clay to wheel as you set off on your very own artistic adventure.

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4. Belfast

You’re probably familiar with (or at least aware of) Belfast’s complex political past, so if you’re visiting the bustling Northern Irish capital, be sure to take a tour around its impressive array of street murals to absorb some of its history for yourselves. For further knowledge, Belfast Exposed delves deep into the heart of the troubles of the 1980s in this ferociously split city.

If you’re looking for a more varied experience, head to the MAC (Metropolitan Arts Centre) which is always putting on fantastic live performances and immersive art exhibitions.

3. Brighton

With a host of independent galleries, gratifying graffiti, and a voracious passion for all things art, Brighton is hot on the heels of its big-city counterparts and an awesome alternative for art lovers looking to satisfy their crafty cravings.

Forget massive, monotonous, overly pretentious galleries; think cool, quirky, quaint boutiques.

North Laine is the main hub where the arty action is concentrated, but you’ll find cultural creations dotted throughout this funky seaside city.

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Art of Feature dress: £82 trafficpeople.co.uk

Style

The art of true style is expressing your true self through your fashion choices...

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Nothing screams ‘ART’ more than a stylish shirt with statement prints.

Wear it oversized for an extra arty vibe.

Milan in Dark Havana, £249 Edwards Eyewear edwardseyewear.com

BLUSH TOP STYLE CHOICE

Shirts made with Liberty fabric, £69.95 The Oxford Shirt company oxfordshirt.co.uk

Napoli in Raspberry Marble, £249 Edwards Eyewear edwardseyewear.com

Loden Cruz Cape, Havana, £595 Farlows farlows.co.uk

Choose bedazzling footwear with gems, gold and glitz.

Vita, £169.95 Keith Scarrott keithscarrott.co.uk

Norfolk shirt in Fig Pheasant, £69.95 Schöffel Country schoffelcountry.com

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Aversa, £169.95 Keith Scarrott keithscarrott.co.uk

Whatever the weather wear some statement shades. Try unique shapes or oversized styles.

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salon

PERFECT NAILS at home

Salon-quality, ping-proof nails with a super-shiny gel finish, in a few simple steps.

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BALANCE For a modern woman in a modern world – with times upon us unprecedented – we must remain on even keel, keeping the left and right centred, and the ups and downs level. Project this through the wardrobe you choose. Working during the day and going out at night doesn’t need to be a headache. Sleek back the hair and add statement earrings to nail that art of style when balancing a work and social life.

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BE BOTH YIN AND MASCULINE 56

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WITH FEMININE

COMPLEMENT

YOUR YANG

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CHOOSE SUITS THAT CAN SUIT THE OFFICE WITH A JUMPER OR JERSEY LAYERED WITH THE JACKET; SWITCH FOR A CORSET OR CAMISOLE READY FOR AN EVENING WORK-DO THAT WORKS FOR YOU.

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SHOOT CREDITS: Photographer: Dan Abro @danabrophoto Hair and Make-up: @makeupartisthanduni Clothing brand: @madolathelabel Model: @theajjade

JUMP INTO A PRACTICAL SINGLE STYLISH PIECE; WEAR NAVY, BLACK OR GREY FOR THE DAY WITH A TAILORED CRISP WHITE SHIRT UNDERNEATH, THEN REMOVE FOR YOUR EVENING OUT, PAIRING YOUR STYLISH JUMPSUIT WITH STATEMENT STILETTOS. sevenstarmedia.co.uk

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I created C-L ASH for people just like me.

I found that such a little change, getting my lashes back, made me feel like I had myself back.

From the moment Codilia was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014, she wanted to design a range of lashes specifically for those who lost their natural lashes & from this, C-Lash was born!

C-Lash is an innovative lash created specifically for lash replacement. It has a soft band made from medical grade tape that has a secure hold and is perfect for sensitive skin.

With long-lasting wear, it is ideal for lash replacement for people going through Chemotherapy, Trichotillomania or Alopecia.

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Here are 7 ways YOU CAN ADD A TOUCH OF ART to your wardrobe Glitz:

Sequins or mirrors can add some special artistic flair to an otherwise bland outfit. A scarf with mirrored detail can lift a tailored work outfit – drape around the neck of a grey, navy or white two-piece or jumpsuit. Or wear a sequin blouse or sequin shoes with everyday jeans for a winning style combination.

Two-piece: Every wardrobe needs some matchy-matchy options… think twinset sweaters and cardigans, and top and bottom lounge wear, or cropped blouses with matching full length skirts or pencil skirts. The more vibrant and patterned, the more art you are adding to your closet.

Gent’s Jacket: Grab your granddad’s old suit jacket – the more ill-fitting the better. If you don’t have anyone’s closet to raid, head to your local secondhand store or online auction. Choose something plain with vibrant lining, and wear it casually over anything.

Luxurious Lace: There is no art without drama, without a story, without passion! So add all of these elements with something lacey. We often associate lace with underwear, even linen, or wedding dresses… but done beautifully and subtly, a touch of lace to your outfit can look amazing. If you

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don’t already have something lacey – don’t buy cheap fast fashion lace– choose some expensive cut-offs and sew some onto a t-shirt or create a choker or cuff.

Fabulous Feathers: Be careful not to go all feather boa as it can look fancy dress.

But a fabulous dress with delicate feather detail that wouldn’t look out of place in The Great Gatsby is the ideal garment to create art in any closet. And once you have the dress, you have an excuse to go to a party or event that requires you to wear the dress!

Oversized Anything: Men’s shirts, or nightwear satin slips, large shades or baggy suit trousers paired with a camisole are all ways to rock the arty vibe.

Be mindful that you don’t do the entire ensemble in oversized garments and accessories, otherwise it will look more like child’s play dressing-up as opposed to effortless art.

Blank Canvas: No wardrobe is complete without a crisp white statement piece.

Maybe the art remains on your skin with tattoos, or on your face with make-up? Having a white staple item such as a slip dress, jacket, pussy-bow blouse or a linen skirt is what any arty wardrobe needs for inspiration. Don’t be afraid to add to the blank palette and wear some bold colours with the white.

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Autumn

Shine

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GET INSPIRED BY 70S RETRO VIBES WITH THIS TASSEL SLEEVED DRESS FROM TRAFFIC PEOPLE, LAYERED UNDER A LONG SLEEVELESS DENIM JACKET AND PAIRED WITH DR. MARTENS - A WARDROBE STAPLE FOR ANY AGE.

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SHOOT CREDITS: Photographer: @matthew_gambrill Model: @imjayderyan Car: @Kamberrakombi

WEAR CHUNKY KNIT CARDIGANS WITH AZTEK PATTERNS, AND WORK DOUBLE DENIM WITH STRIPES AND OLDSCHOOL TRAINERS FOR A MODERNDAY GLIMPSE INTO THE PAST.

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SHOOT CREDITS: Photographer: Dawn-Marie stoyanovandjones.com Hair: Vicki Lord vickilordhair.com Make-up Artist: Jo Freeman jofreeman.net Nails: Kelli Waldock kelliwaldock.co.uk Clothes: Korlekie korlekie.com Models: Satu Suominen and Rosie Williams

ART

OF Being you

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TAKE THE REINS OF YOUR LIFE AND REIGN IN A WAY THAT IS RIGHT FOR YOU!

MOMENTS LOST SPENT WORRYING ON THOUGHTS SET UPON YOU

BY OTHERS STOP!

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WHAT I WANT MATTERS

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MY NEEDS NEED TO COME FIRST sevenstarmedia.co.uk

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REMAIN YOU!

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BRAZILIAN

JiuJitsu

Fighting Fit, based in Manchester’s city centre, is a martial arts and fitness gym specialising in BJJ, MMA, boxing, kickboxing, kobudo, powerlifting, calisthenics and dedicated fitness programmes…

B

elieving in the science of fitness, the gym has an incredible roster of highly trained coaches, with head coach Martyn Cahill having trained in martial arts for twenty years. He achieved his black belt in Bujinkan Budo Taijutsu in 2007 at the same time as training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

He started training with CFS in 2010 and was awarded his black belt in BJJ in July 2013 by Master Ricardo De La Riva and Professor David Onuma. As well as being highly skilled in BJJ, he has also trained and studied MMA and boxing for over fifteen years.

“For me personally, doing martial arts has helped me lead a more active and balanced lifestyle. It’s a lot more challenging and rewarding than simply going to a regular weight-lifting gym. I do Brazilian Jui Jitsu, and it has opened opportunities for me to compete and travel the world. It gives me focus to be mentally and physically better all the time, and with the help of my training partners and coaches, the sport gives me the chance to become the best in the world. The challenge and the journey is both fun and exciting.” Fransisca Nelson, 35, has been training for six and a half years.

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BRAZILIAN JIU JITSU WHO: Literally for everybody. You cannot be too big, small, fit, unfit, young or old. BJJ can be adapted for any body type or ability.

WHAT:

Start off with the syllabus classes and learn the foundation techniques and concepts. We have a comprehensive curriculum to follow that will lead you through your gradings and towards your first belt. Once you’ve been training a couple of months, add in some drilling and sparring sessions and talk to the head coach about attending the comp class.

WHY: Martyn Cahill, head coach has been training in martial arts for twenty years. On the mat, you will see several other black belts and brown belts, competitors who have achieved European and World titles but also beginners who have only just started and never done a day of martial arts before. We all train together, respect each other and help each other out.

If you’ve been thinking of trying it out, this is the place to start. fightingfitmanchester.com

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Art of...

SELF-DEFENCE My name is Alexandra North, and I practise Krav Maga

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y family and I repatriated back to the UK having lived overseas for over ten years.

Settling-in proved tough for us all, especially for our (then) seven-year-old daughter, who faced some awful challenges because of bullies at her new school. Together, we searched for an activity that would help open her up to new experiences and other like-minded children. She

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chose to try out Karate, and got hooked. She quickly gained confidence and a circle of friends too. It was a real joy seeing her sparkle return.

Why is this relevant to my story? Because it was here – and because of her – that I started my own martial arts journey and regained my sparkle too.

I was forty-one (I’m now forty-five). A smoker. Not unfit, but not a picture of health either. And like my daughter, making friendships here in the UK had been difficult.

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It was the hardest fitness exercise I’ve ever faced

Mums and dads watching their ‘Karate kids’ in action were actively encouraged to take up training too. It took me a good year to cave, but I finally got my gi (kit) on. I was doing okay – if a little awkward, in that my legs didn’t quite stretch the way the kids’ could – but I was becoming distracted by the guys in the Krav Maga class that had just started. My partner was one of them.

jabs, punches and kicks – was fast and furious. I got them all mixed up but I kept at it. Being able to laugh at yourself helps!

Making the switch:

Technique is everything:

It looked brutal. Half a dozen burly guys slamming each other down on the floor with real force; breaking out of choke holds; smashing elbows into pads; snap kicks to the groin. It was exactly where I wanted to be. So, I made the switch.

Krav was established by the Israeli Defence Forces. It’s not recognised as a martial art but uses techniques from Karate, Judo, Kickboxing and Aikido. It’s a self-defence and fighting system that is based on real world situations and is known for its extreme efficiency. It’s about surviving unfair disadvantages, which can include multiple attackers and weapons.

Initially, I was the only woman in the group (an old one at that in comparison), and I was instantly welcomed into the fold. It was the hardest fitness exercise I’ve ever faced. The warm-ups nearly killed me. I was determined not to fail, and the guys pushed me – in a good way.

The line work – where you learn your

The floor work, where the actual defence training came in, was tough. Don’t forget, I was in a squad of guys who were twice my size. And boy, did it give real-life situations to tackle: from muggings and rape scenarios, to being caught up in street fights with batons or knife attacks on a train – we learned how to take control and stop the other person. It’s about efficiency, right? So it has to be hard and quick. Within months, I learned how to put someone on the ground with just one hand grip; get out of a choke hold; disarm someone who had a knife. And my ‘attackers’ weren’t making it easy for me because I was a woman.

My first belt grading was one of my proudest moments. I couldn’t wait to get to each training session. I was motivated, fit, among friends and loving life – I got my sparkle back. But then I reached just over half way through my black belt journey, with only a few injuries along the way: ripped tendons, broken toes, cracked ribs;

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Our Krav Maga and Karate journeys have been gamechangers for us

a few shiners - it was a dislocated shoulder that stopped me in my tracks. And I’ve had to pause training.

I miss it immensely. But we give it a go in the garden, sparring with our kick shields and punch mitts. Our Krav Maga and Karate journeys have been game-changers for us.

We’re fitter – I gave up smoking because of it – stronger, more confident, we’ve grown closer as a family, and developed lifelong friendships.

I highly recommend it to anyone, of any age or capability, who wants to get fit, to make new friends, and to learn new skills that will help you stay safe. Just expect a few bumps and lumps along the way… As for myself? I can’t wait to get back! twitter.com/NorthAlexandra

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ART OF

KICKING ASS

My name is Maria Newman. I’m forty-threeyears-old, married with two children – and last year I accidently started training in kickboxing…

My job wasn’t the only change in my life!

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p until 2016, I’d been working for Rolls-Royce as a project manager for seventeen years.

But after having my second baby, I decided to take voluntary redundancy and decided what I really wanted to do for a career… Turns out what I really wanted was to start my own business. I now run ‘Mummy on a Break’ – which is about helping busy working mums take back control and create the life they really want through online courses and coaching.

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I never intended on starting kickboxing.

It was an accident really. I was lucky enough to win a three month pass to a local kickboxing martial arts school at a Christmas raffle. Because I wasn’t fussed, I offered it to my husband but he said I should have a go. I also knew the family who run the club, so it made it easier to go along to the first session.

Initially, I thought I’d go for three months and then leave. But the truth is, after the first session, I knew that I wanted to continue, so I signed up fully for when the three months were over.

The atmosphere at the club is amazing.

It’s very inclusive and Sensei makes everyone feel like they can do it regardless of their abilities.

The other thing is, when I was younger I used to have Karate lessons and going to kickboxing must have reignited the enjoyment I had. I enjoy the discipline that kickboxing requires: and also the focus requires you to fully be present in the here and now, instead of running through the ‘to do’ list in your mind. Plus, I get a really good workout.

I now train twice a week, which if you’d

told me I’d be going to kickboxing classes a couple of years ago I wouldn’t have believed you. I don’t think I would have had the energy and more importantly, the enthusiasm and passion to exercise once we’d put the kids to bed.

I am currently waiting to hear whether I have achieved my blue belt, which is five belts away from black. It is a great achievement for me, considering I only started eighteen-months ago. I remind myself, despite being driven and slightly competitive, that Sensei wouldn’t have allowed me to progress if I wasn’t capable.

I’ve also started sparring. Something that I don’t want to do competitively. It takes a lot of energy and mental strength to fight.

There are so many benefits to this sport.

Since starting, I know that my fitness level has increased and I’m more toned than I used to be. It’s great for my mental wellbeing as well as becoming more supple. Having young kids, this means I can definitely keep up with them. It also means that I’ve got a fighting chance of being able to play with them for as long as they want, which can sometimes feel like an eternity.

FB: @mummyonabreak IG: @mummyonabreak Podcast: anchor.fm/mummyonabreak/

I get a really good workout

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ART OF Celebrating your body

Here are ten ways that will help you accept and embrace the body you are in…

Stop peer-comparison: We naturally compare ourselves to our peers, but try and gain some awareness over this instinct because it leads to unnecessary competitiveness and often makes us feel bad about ourselves.

down – even in your thoughts, because this is just as negative as saying or writing body shame related comments.

Stop self-comparison: How many times have you looked at old photographs and pined over your younger, tighter, smoother body?

Many of us have been there – but it is non-productive behaviour. Instead work on improving your body right now, so you can be the best version of yourself… this does not mean being the same as fifteen years ago – but there is no reason why it couldn’t mean being better.

Stop the restrictions: If you want to wear something and you feel good in it then be bold and wear it.

Work on improving your body right now

Stop celebritycomparison: These types of comparisons are usually based on images that have been airbrushed or taken in very flattering lighting. Celebrities generally have more support when it comes to their figures including personal trainers, prepared meals and even plastic surgeons. Celebrities are human although it sometimes doesn’t seem it, and no doubt many have self-image challenges too.

Stop body shaming anyone: Stopping comparison and opting to celebrate your own body doesn’t include body shaming anybody else. Everyone is on their own journey and just because you may or may not be looking and feeling your best, there are no reasons to put other people 76

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Just because we are conditioned in certain societies to only wear a bikini for example if we are less than a size ten, doesn’t mean it is law. Rock whatever you feel expresses your true self.

Celebrate in private: Take your time in the shower to wash methodically, and feel a sense of appreciation towards each limb, and even your internal organs. Allow this to create a celebration ritual daily and you will begin to look at your body very differently. Also, when you are bathing in the bath, consider it time out for your body when you can really allow it to rest and hydrate.

Treat yourself to a home spa experience with a candle, bubble bath and even a glass of crisp cucumber spring water. Wear lovely underwear that makes you feel special even underneath your work clothes.

that really flatter your shape as well as suit your lifestyle, and complement your character.

Celebrate the skin: Our skin is the largest organ of the body and we can often neglect it. We need to nurture it. Drinking water, eating fresh foods, and protecting it from the elements show some level of gratitude towards our skin. Embracing the tone, type and quality of skin is also important. Our skin can act as a signal for other health problems and so pay attention to any rashes or pimples and so on. Metaphysically we can keep some skin conditions at bay by staying calm and feeling safe and being grateful for the body we are each living in.

Celebrate mobility: Unless

Celebrate in public: Be brave at the

we have experience of certain disability or injury, then we often take for granted basic movements that our bodies do. Appreciate the functioning and mobility of your body always, every day. This could be when you are doing sport or it could be something small like being able to use your hands. If you have ever experienced pulling a muscle or breaking a bone, or the aftermath of surgery such as Caesarean then you would be aware of the impact a small change can have.

pool and beach to wear your favorite swimwear and hold yourself confidently. Be proud of your body because it is your friend and is with you for life.

Hire a wardrobe stylist who can assist you choosing clothes

Kim-Maree

Celebrate narrative: Compliment your body parts. It may feel weird but choose a body part and say something good about it. If it is more natural for you to put yourself down, then this may be a tricky one – but it also means you will need it more. So write the compliments on sticky notes if you have to and stick them on the mirror – maybe stand there in front of your naked self and truly embrace all that is you. If negative phrases come to mind simply reverse them and use them as your compliments and while you are at it, find things about others that are positive and share your thoughts.

By Jordan P Martin

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BLUSH | H E A LT H A N D F I T N E S S

ART OF

NOT overindulging W

hen it comes to Christmas and New year, we are so used to over indulgence of food and drink, that we just go with the flow of it and aim to magically fix it all in January with a resolution or several…

But, we can still enjoy festivities and be healthy – think of it as a prevention over cure strategy because let’s face it, none of us like that bloated, lethargic feeling, not to mention that pressure to get rid of a few pounds.

Reduce Animal Produce: There are plenty of health reasons to cut down on animal produce – Christmas time sees us eating heaps of dairy products as well as meats, so consider switching out the honey glazed ham for a cranberry nutroast. Many supermarkets offer a good variety of nut-roasts now, that you just shove in the oven, just in case you don’t fancy adding that to your list of things to prep and cook. Another way to cut down on animal produce, is by replacing the creams and custards for nondiary alternatives that have less of the hormones and fat, but taste just as good.

Snooze Button on the Booze: Too much alcohol not only piles on the pounds, but leads to a fuzzy head and other effects, such as skin break outs, hangovers and even reliance. So how do we pace alcohol consumption, whilst still enjoying its benefits?

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Wine: Try half a glass of a good quality red wine or a nice mug of spiced mulled wine; instead of aiming to finish the bottle save some for another day. And no sneaky glass while prepping the food!

Opt for the mocktail

Spirits: Leave the spirit stones in the freezer and return to the ice-cubes. Having your spirits on the icy rocks waters the beverage down.

Ales, Beers & Lager: Know your limits, and enjoy the experience of drinking without the aim of getting smashed. Switching to half pints can help you slow your roll.

Cocktails: Have a couple of your favourites and then opt for the mocktail version, or if you prefer, alternate the virgin version with the loaded drink.

Other Sparkling Drinks: Champagne, Prosecco, and other sparking drinks can get sickly after a while anyway – so have one or two to celebrate then switch to a sparkling water, lime and soda or even go for a wine spritzer.

Personal Trainer and Sports Scientist Marc Dressen says, “Foods which have ample stores of fibre in them are excellent deterrents from overindulging. They make you feel nice and full and if chosen cleverly will also mean you won’t be consuming extra unwanted calories. Fruit and vegetables are the obvious choices, and they also boost your body with essential vitamins and minerals. When you top up on fibre your body produces more insulin, which will help meltdown fats and sugars you happen to eat on those festive occasions. So even if you happen to be a bit naughty at Christmas you’ll still manage to keep added inches off your waistline.”

It is a good idea to have small meals as you usually would before a party or dinner, so that you don’t binge in one sitting. And whilst it is tempting to hover around the buffet table even though you are full to the brim, choose to stand away from those temptations – you’ll be glad you did in the long run.

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Art on a PLATE Ever heard of eating a rainbow? It isn’t just about making your plate look pretty, it could actually help you live longer too.

Y

ou see, fruits and vegetables contain compounds called phytonutrients, which give plants their rich colours, flavours and aromas. These phytonutrients help to protect plants from threats in their natural environment such as bugs and excessive sun. But it doesn’t stop there, these phytonutrients can also protect us from chronic diseases including cancer and heart disease, with organic options having greater effects because when a plant doesn’t have to protect itself (hello pesticides) it simply creates more phytonutrients!

Each colour has different benefits, so ideally we want to include a mixture each day. Think about creating a colour chart on your fridge and tick off every time you have a different colour. Here’s some of my favourites:

Red are rich in the carotenoid

lycopene, a potent antioxidant that

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may protect against heart disease, lung disease and prostate cancer. Think tomatoes, cherries, apples, watermelon, red grapes, beetroot and red peppers.

Lycopene is more easily absorbed when it is cooked, so try making your own homemade tomato sauce. Quercetin, found in red onions and apples has also been shown to reduce risk of asthma, some cancers and heart disease.

Blue and Purple have powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins. These are powerful antioxidants, which can protect cells from damage and may prevent the formation of blood clots.

Blueberries, blackberries, blackcurrants, eggplant, purple cabbage, plums and figs are great sources. Resveratrol found in purple grapes and red wine is another mighty antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that may help to reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

Phytonutrients can also protect us from chronic diseases

Orange and Yellow are high in carotenoids, such as alpha-carotene, beta-carotene and beta-cryptoxanthin which can be converted to vitamin A in the body. This is important for loads of things including supporting skin and eye health. Great sources include carrots, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, pumpkin, yellow peppers, oranges, mango, apricots and cantaloupe melon.

Green foods are rich in cancer-

blocking chemicals like sulforaphane, isocyanate, and indoles. They are also super important for liver detoxification and preventing everything from hormone imbalances, itchy skin and weight gain.

Include three fist sized portions of the Brassica family each day, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, pak choi and kale, and add in spinach, asparagus and collard greens for plenty of B vitamins, essential for energy and detoxification.

Finally, anthoxanthins create white or cream colours and many of these foods are rich sources of potassium, important for heart and muscle function. Try potatoes, mushrooms, parsnips and bananas. The onion family also contains the potent anticancer and detoxification superhero, allicin.

Include onions, leeks, garlic and radishes to supercharge your diet.

Eat seasonal and with skins on for supercharged phytonutrient concentration and aim to get a variety of colours every day. Aim for six to eight portions of vegetables and two portions of fruit to really supercharge your health.

By Lynda Stretton MMedSci Human Nutrition, specialising in women’s health lyndastretton.com @lynda.stretton

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ART OF MEDITATION How can we benefit from practising meditation?

There is this confused understanding of what meditation actually is

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T

here is no getting away from buzzwords like ‘meditation’ and ‘mindfulness’; these terms have decorated the media via video, socials, magazine articles and column inches for some time now. The more cynical amongst us, believe that the highlighting of such practices actually dilutes the remarkable impact that quietening the mind can bring; the healing capability, the creative experiences, the transcendental sensations... And some of us believe that the more people that know about meditation the better the world will become.

I am somewhere in-between both of these thought places – the meditation that most westerners embark on is perhaps a mild form of the traditions of the ancient practices that have been entrenched in eastern cultures since day dot.

There is this confused understanding of what meditation actually is, and herein lies the issue – some people believe it to be easy, others difficult, some think it is just sleeping, and others rock up to a meditation session expecting one thing and get something else entirely; and this really depends on the style of meditation, the level of knowledge and/or experience of the teacher and how open the participant’s heart and mind are to the new experiences.

So, what exactly is meditation?

It is a state of being. There are many different techniques and tools that can facilitate this meditative state, including visual focus, control of the breath, direction of the breath, sitting with one’s thoughts, repeating prayer or mantra, or listening to sounds or music.

Meditative techniques often involve a one-point of concentration other than the thoughts that busy and distract the mind.

The aim of most meditative practices is to quieten the mind, so one can experience life aside from the material manifested world that dominates our senses – a world of distraction and polarity. Meditative practice can lead to a trance-like state and it can lead to full-on spiritual or out of body experiences; a sense of feeling at one with yourself and the Universe; a sense of universal understanding, acceptance and complete contentment

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and calm. Experiences can include seeing techno colour or psychedelic patterns at the third eye while the eyes are closed.

Or movement of energy (known as prana – life force) through what is referred to as the Nadi channels (yogic traditions) or Meridians (Chinese traditions).

Meditation can even create a sense of nausea, euphoria or bliss. A deep sense of contemplation can occur – reflection of situations, people or self from a unique or detached perspective – a point of clarity.

I, have experienced all of these things, and I have had students experience various states also, however, the main thing to remember is to have no expectations and to expect the unexpected with any experience in life. And whatever the experience during your meditation, it is important to flow with it with acceptance.

If at any point you need to come out of the state, then do so by awakening any of the senses for example, move your fingers or toes, sniff the air, open the eyes, have a peppermint or square of dark chocolate ready to eat or smell to really assist you in coming around. And to awakening parts of the brain that alert you before driving your car or returning to work, pinch under the nose. These are all techniques that can assist you to arouse your senses in a safe and stable way.

Try different styles of meditation such as, ascension, yoga nidra, pranayama; Try various teachers to assess who you relate to and feel safe with; and environments too, like a gym, studios, training set-ups, retreats. Even if the most you get from a session is some time out of your daily routine and a sense of deep relaxation then these are positive things. And this relaxing escapism from our lives is the western way of meditation for most – being squeezed into your gym timetable or a few minutes before a meeting or presentation can still have benefits.

In fact, these regular, short stints can be more beneficial in our lives than the long hours of solitude, silence and stillness that some practitioners may do or that are traditionally practised.

In a nutshell the benefits of meditation in which ever form that resonates with you as an individual and that fits in with your lifestyle and roles within this World are:

It allows for opening of the heart – focusing on love and

compassion, and acceptance towards self and others.

It eliminates that need for schedule and time – just within those short minutes or the hour session that you have committed to. Time ceases to exist and this alone liberates us. Ironically, making meditation a part of your routine will free you of the reins of responsibility and routine.

It allows you to see. Not with your eyes, but with an inner knowing of clarity of how situations really are, often without bias or judgment.

It allows for the body to rejuvenate, particularly if pranayama (energy and breath work) is incorporated – the direction and control of the life force entering and leaving our body has proven in many situations to benefit us holistically.

Once meditation is complete, it is possible to move forward with a sense of rest, yet exhilaration, which highlights the balance that practising can create.

Regular shorter practices are better – with anything in life – than big spurts of dedication that make little difference in the bigger picture of your overall life.

Always ensure that after practising meditation that you awake safely, as mentioned above. We live in a physical world and whilst having a connection with our spiritual selves is vital... again it is about balance and meditation can create a continued tranced state that is lovely to hold on to... but for daily lives can be too spacy at times – so get the benefits from the practice that work for you, but the art of meditation truly exists when we create a balance of what we need both inside, outside and beyond.

For a free sleep podcast available on various platforms: anchor.fm/ sleeplessinthecity

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WELL WISHES

The following people, businesses and companies would like to extend their very best wishes to everyone at Look Good Feel Better charity, and to support the continued success of BLUS H Magazine...

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Anglia Handling Services Ltd

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Cambrai Covers Coty (Marc Jacobs Fragrance) Coty Prestige UK (Calvin Klein Fragrances) Coty UK (Hugo Boss) Coty UK (Chloe)

D

Dr Organic Ltd

E

Elegant Touch Elure London Express Gifts Ltd

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Furniture Village

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I

iMEDicare Ltd

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Lancome Loreal UK Ltd

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Parker Knoll Upholstery Limited PDC Brands PDC Brands (Elegant Touch)

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Shiseido UK Skinade Supacleen Ltd

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The Tonic Tribe Ltd

The BLUSH team would like to extend a special ‘thankyou’ to all contributors to this issue.

Hothair Howard Construction (Anglia) Ltd

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Quite like the intensity of capitalism, our material goals are vital to our existence

Arts will rescue you

The benefits

OF ART In this post-modern world we live in, what can art do for us?

W

e are structured by the hours of our working day. Motivated by the dollars that working day can provide.

Engaged by the dynamic

opportunities to spend those pounds on a plethora of situations, which are designed to allow us pleasures at the point of purchase.

We are saturated with possibilities, which constantly arrive on our timelines indicating that our material values are in need of attention. We are encouraged to work hard and play harder if we want to enjoy the delights on offer as often and instantly as possible, we are bombarded with algorithms specifically targeting our demographic. We are stacked against the odds when we engage in this pool. We are bound to succumb to desire.

Bound to choose the soft option. We are compelled to share our highlights via social media. After all we do deserve a ‘good’, ‘happy’, ‘healthy’, lifestyle.

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now. We need our wants to be satiated satisfactorily

otherwise we have no quality of life…

Or do we?

Suspend disbelief for a moment. Breathe. No, really breathe; deep and controlled all the way to the depths of the diaphragm. Now focus on your heartbeat.

Listen to it. Perhaps the ideas in the paragraph above have been allowed to bombard your sensory perception. Perhaps you feel like you are trapped by this ever-increasing social constraint? Strangled by the energy capitalism and material values have overloaded you with? Stressed by life’s ritualistic never-ending pressure cooker...

Arts will rescue you.

The simplicity of the creative intuition will nurture the part of us that has become manifest as void.

When that piece of music you hear sparks the tear jerk reaction; you know that the soul is not lost to all of the above. When the body sways in time to the music as the tear drop falls; you know that your soul is engaging with the higher self.

The wholesome version of yourself, which seeks the simple pleasures still present since childhood, like running, shouting and dare I say, ‘dancing like no one’s watching’.

Painting is a good example of this. You do need some basic equipment but this can be easily organised cheaply. Once you begin to spread the colour against a blank page you start to feel that same sense of naive satisfaction.

There is a sense of rebellion in action. Rebellion against that which desires order. This is a petty victory – a petty freedom. The creation you have in front of you will tell you more about yourself than last month’s bank statement. Simply putting pencil to paper will allow you time out of the world of organised order you are compelled by for twenty-three hours a day. Allow art into that hour and your soul will feel the benefit that your body would feel at the gym. @therealsophialove

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