• VALENTINES SPECIAL • PODCASTS • MUSIC • BUSINESS UPDATES • RELATIONSHIP ADVICE • FUN STUFF
JASON FOX from SAS: WHO DARES WINS gives dinger advice leading up to HIS
DIGITAL MAGA ZINE
#STAY CONNECTED February/March 2021
hope “ IIhitdon’t an
iceBerg
3118 mile row unsupported FROM New york to UK
WEDDINGS ABROAD BEST VENUES IN SANTORINI
ENTERTAINING YOU FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR HOME
”
www.wearmyleggings.co.uk
30% off EVERYTHING with code: BEMINE
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< BACK TO CONTENTS > Send your experiences and weblinks to hello@stayconnected.co.uk
CONTENTS BRAVERY AND DINGER p4 GALENTINES DAY
p10
VALENTINES GIFTS
p12
RECIPES p14 COCKTAIL RECIPES
p16
MUSIC p18 PODCASTS P20 WEDDINGS ABROAD
p22
RELATIONSHIPS p24 FAMILY ADVICE
p26
STAYCATION p28 FINANCIAL ADVICE
p30
APPS p32 BUSINESS p34 BOOKS p46
Kerry Phillips – Graphic Designer
Chloe Halliday Editor and Social Media Marketing Assistant
Hi guys and girls, its Chloe here from Stay Connected digital magazine. Keep reading for articles about fashion, valentines ideas, music and much more. Your support means everything to us here at the magazine. I would love to hear your feedback, so feel free to comment on Facebook or email me directly at chloe@stayconnectedmagazine.co.uk
Chloe
Chloe Halliday chloe@stayconnectedmagazine.co.uk Lindsey Legg – Managing Director
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bravery
be brave In the last edition of Stay Connected Digital magazine, we met Dave ‘Dinger’ Bell, who is rowing the North Atlantic on his own, partially to raise money for three brilliant UK charities, partially to push himself to the limits. If you follow Dinger on social media you will see he is an avid supporter of Bravery. Set up by Tobias Gutteridge, Bravery is a UK based clothing company, with a difference. Bravery encourages people to get out of
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their comfort zone and achieve great things, one act of bravery at a time. Bravery’s founder Toby is an avid motocross rider, surfer and overall extreme sports fan. He set up Bravery after being shot in the neck whilst on tour in Afghanistan. This left him instantly paralysed from the neck down. Toby’s rehabilitation story was full of struggle and he still faces challenges each day. His attitude to life is truly inspirational, he tackles life head-on and does not allow anything to get him down. He decided to combine his < BACK TO CONTENTS >
love for life, sports and thrills with his first class honours degree in business studies to create Bravery, the apparel company that encapsulates what it is to push yourself out of your comfort zone. Bravery is not only a clothing company with such a brilliant ethos, they also support charities for underprivileged children and discharged members of the Armed Forces. Bravery supports Surfers Not Street Children, a charity for the at risk children living on the street in Durban, South Africa. On the streets children can be subjected to abuse or exploitation, forced into petty crime. Without intervention disease, prison or death will be their fate. Bravery has focused their charitable efforts on education for children, allowing them to grow up with plenty of potential. Toby’s aim of setting up Bravery was to empower people, and support people going through tough times in their life. To encourage people to keep going and have the resilience and strength to keep going when things get tough. The Bravery mission is to help and inspire people and encourage them to complete their personal challenges regardless of the obstacles in the way. It aims to encourage you to be Brave. Bravery’s motto is to ‘Always follow your heart’. “Everyone will experience at some point in their lives a life changing moment, an event, big or small, that changes the course of
that person’s life forever. It will make you re-evaluate things, question things and ultimately affect the choices you make from that point on. These experiences are never easy as they push you out of your comfort zone or put you on a path that suddenly is fraught with obstacles and challenges and headed for the unknown. These events will be filled with fear!”- Toby Gutteridge Be sure to scan the QR code below to listen to Bravery’s playlist of motivational tunes.
bravery
BRAVERY, This is a clothing company with a difference, it’s for the risk takers and the change makers out there. Toby Gutteridge, the founder and owner of Bravery, takes style and comfort into account when producing the clothes. If you are conscious about who’s pocket you are lining this is the perfect clothing store for you. Bravery supports charities for underprivileged children and discharged member of the Armed Forces. Toby who is an avid biker, surfer and extreme sports enthusiast was shot and instantly paralysed whilst in Afghanistan doing service in the UK Special Force. His aim with the clothing brand is to support and encourage those who have faced hardship in their lives and guide them on their journey to becoming stronger than ever as opposed to wallowing in despair. Make a bold statement with the Abeyant T-shirt, for just £25. With a classic round neck this tee has a laid back and relaxed feel to it. Perfect to just chuck on with jeans, this T-shirt is also Earth Positive.
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Made with 100% organic cotton Bravery’s tee’s are incredibly comfy and soft, making them ideal for working out in, wearing out or doing DIY in. All Bravery’s T-shirts are printed and designed in the UK. This flat peak cap features the rubber Bravery logo on the front of the hat, giving it an edge, whilst promoting the brilliant company. This hat is an all round winner, with just the right amount of colour to stand out. It has 8 rows of visor stitching for added quality and durability, plus an elasticated sweatband. Ideal for wearing whilst working hard and achieving goals. This leather bracelet will make the perfect accessory to any outfit. A perfect gift for yourself or your partner. Each bracelet is handmade from leather and is individually designed. The real leather is excellent quality. The bracelets come in a Bravery Tin, making them the perfect gift. They are available in a range of colours and sizes.
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dinger
2uk
Ny
solo row
Dingers boat to Be wrappeD by insignia signs!
Update on Dinger We have been catching up with Dave â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Dingerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Bell recently. Dinger is attempting to row the North Atlantic on his own this year. He is raising money for three UK based charities: The Royal Foundation, The SBSA and Rock2Recovery. These charities do some brilliant work and have been struggling to raise money during the pandemic. Dingers hard work and excellent effort will hopefully change this and allow him to raise money for these charities during his row across the North Atlantic, 3118 miles.
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GIFT VOUCHER If your jeans seem to have shrunk magically in the wash you’re not alone Almost nine months of lockdowns followed by a festive period where eating and drinking seemed even more important than ever, have left most of us feeling we need to turn over a new leaf. Bet Yourself Better, is looking for volunteers who want to set fitness goals for the new year and stick to them.
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Send your experiences and weblinks to hello@stayconnected.co.uk
HTTPS://WEBRUNNERS.CO.UK/ www.webrunners.co.uk
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Galentines
valentines
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“ February 13th, the other half of valentine’s day, when you celebrate your love for your lady friends! single or not.” < BACK TO CONTENTS >
valentines Everyone has heard of Valentine’s day, February the 14th. Some people dread it, others adore it. If you find yourself shuddering at the thought of the day, why not try the alternative? Galentines.
Thanks so much to Hermione Ross for her illustration at @h.e.r.illustrations on Instagram. Limited edition prints available to buy www.hermioneross.com
Defined by Urban Dictionary as: “February 13th, the other half of valentine’s day, when you celebrate your love for your lady friends! single or no.” Galentines is an alternative way to spend the holiday. If you are single or just not fussed with Valentine’s day, there is nothing better than celebrating your friendship with your gal pals. The 13th is the day where females worldwide unite, destination: the bar. Donning glitter and jewellery galore, Galentines is an excuse to spend time with those that you are nearest and dearest to. There are many different ways of celebrating Galentines day, but here at Stay Connected we think we have found the perfect way to celebrate. In our opinion, the best way to celebrate is with a bottle of rosé wine, some great films and your closest friends. However, there are many other more extravagant ways to celebrate if that doesn’t take your fancy. For example, a spa day.You could even DIY a spa day, buy sheet masks, < BACK TO CONTENTS >
foot and hand masks and treat yo’ self-girl. There is a never-ending list of what you could get up to on Galentines, just be creative! For example, a zoom games night or an amazon watch party movie night. Amazon have launched amazon watch parties, and if you have amazon prime you’re in luck. Whilst watching films on a laptop, you can incorporate friends, which is ideal for lockdown. Other ideas include: go for a socially distanced walk, or perhaps even a facetime walk, zoom wine tasting, zoom breakfast party, zoom mimosa brunch, karaoke on zoom or a socially distanced clothing swap. Basically, get creative and make whatever you imagine happen. Whatever you end up doing, it is not Galentines day unless you get into the spirit of it with some funky tunes. Scan the QR code with your smartphone camera to open up Stay Connected’s Galentines day Spotify playlist.
Happy Galentines from all of us here at Stay Connected! 11
gift guide
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be mine
Valentine’s day is zooming towards us, and if you’re in a loss as to what to get your significant other this is the guide for you. Here is Stay Connected’s 2021 gift guide for Valentine’s day. 12
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gift guide 6
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Background image courtesy of cristen-lacorte-unsplash
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1. QUILTED TRAVEL BAG £11 weddingstar.co.uk 2. VALENTINES CHARCUTERIE HAMPER £32 yumbles.com 3. SHESHEA BATH BOMB £12 shesheanaturals.com 4. HOPPILY MONTHLY BEER BOX £25 shop.hoppily.co.uk 5. SWAROVSKI EARRINGS £32 swarovski.com 6. PERSONALISED BEARD KIT £22.99 prezzybox.com 7. BAMBOO BATH TRAY £38.97 amazon.co.uk 8. SATIN PYJAMA SET £35 bouxavenue.com 9. ESSENTIAL OILS MASSAGE SET £16.50 oliverbonas.com 10. PERSONALISED LEATHER BRACELET £8.99 etsy.com 11. YANKEE CANDLE £30.99 yankeecandle.co.uk < BACK TO CONTENTS >
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HOME BAKING bakewell tart
INGREDIENTS For The Pastry 250g plain flour 100g icing sugar 125g cold butter Pinch of salt 1 egg 1 tbsp cold water For The Filling 2 tbsp raspberry jam 150g butter 150g caster sugar 3 eggs 150g ground almonds 75g flaked almonds 20cm loose bottomed tart tin, buttered and lined with parchment
#thevictoriancottage
DOWNLOAD Leighâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s victorian cottage RECIPE BOOK: https://issuu.com/waterside10/docs/ recipes_from_the_victorian_cottage-issuu
Method Combine the flour, butter, salt and icing sugar in a food processor or mixing bowl until it resembles bread crumbs. Add in the egg and cold water and bring together to form a dough. Wrap in cling film and place in the fridge for 30 minutes. Once the pastry is chilled, roll out to a 3 - 5mm thickness and line the prepared tart tin. Make sure you press into the sides well. Trim off the excess pastry and put back in the firdge for another 30 minutes. Heat your oven to 200ÂşC. To make the filling, beat the eggs and sugar together until pale and fluffy in a food mixer. Slowly add the eggs one at a time, beating well inbetween. Stir in the ground almonds and add a pinch of nutmeg. Remove the pastry lined tin from the fridge, spread the jam evenly over the base. Add the frangipane mix to the case, even out and sprinkle with the flaked almonds. Bake in the oven for 30 - 35 minutes, if the top starts to brown to quick cover loosely with a sheet of foil.
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recipes from
the victorian cottage
tasty
tart
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plant piE plant and ale pie
INGREDIENTS (serves 6) 1 onion – diced 2 sweet potatoes – cubed 1 butternut squash – cubed 1 suede – cubed 3 celery sticks – chopped chunky 3 carrots – sliced 1 small pack of chestnut mushrooms 1 bottle of real ale 1 tbsp of marmite 2 veg stock pots Gravy granules of your choice 3 tbsp of nutritional yeast Soy sauce tsp dried thyme Jus roll puff pastry sheets x 2 (if using a smaller pie dish) Vegan butter
Method Fry off the onion, sweet potatoes, butternut squash and suede with the celery and carrots in some water with the lid on (I fill the pan to half way up the vegetables with the water) on a medium heat and stir every few minutes for 15 minutes. Next add a bottle of real ale and simmer for 5 minutes, then add your mushrooms, marmite, veg stock pots, some gravy granules and the nutritional yeast and a dash of soy sauce. Cook your mix out until the root veggies are soft and adjust flavourings if needed, I now add some dried thyme and season with salt and pepper. When you are happy with the thickness and taste add the root veg mix to your pie dish and let it cool. Once cooled add the puff pastry sheets over the mix and lap them over the edges of your pie dish and brush the vegan butter on it to brown. Cook in the oven for 40 minutes on a medium/high heat or until the pastry is browned nicely. Serve with mash or roast potatoes and green vegetables of your choice. Background image courtesy of pradeep-ranjan-unsplash
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perfect
PLANT BASED RECIPE
DOWNLOAD YOUR IMMUNE BOOSTING PLANT-BASED RECIPE BOOK NOW: www.recipesforvitality.com < BACK TO CONTENTS >
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COCKTAILS PORTO G&T Pink gin for grown ups Ingredients 50ml Port Barrel Gin 200ml classic Indian tonic water Grapefruit or orange peel Method Simple but oh so sublime – fill your glass with ice, pour over the Port Barrel Gin, top with tonic water and finish with your garnish. Whack some Bon Iver on and set aside the rest of your day. It’s time to indulge.
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Va le n
Conker i
Whether you are your tod, or treating the o we’ve got a big night in for you this Valentine
Join Conker Founder, Rupert Ho interactive online tasting of of Spirits, our Gin & Juice cocktail, an alcohol-free spirit Bowser Get a rare insight into the inner worki how our products are made. This is yo those burning questio
LIMITED SPACES AVA When? 7.30 – 9pm Sunday 14th February
asting
GINspiration
for a valentines 16
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ESPRESSO MARTINI Turn off that espresso machine. We’ve got the coffee covered. Conker Cold Brew Coffee has all the essential Espresso Martini ingredients already in the bottle. Simply shake over ice with a touch of water and hey presto, a perfect Espresso Martini every, single, time! Ingredients 70ml Conker Cold Brew 30ml chilled water
ntin
Method Take all your ingredients and shake over ice for a good 15 seconds, pour into a chilled coupe or martini glass through a sieve (very important! You don’t want ice shards in your martini. No Sir.) Devour indecently.
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on other half, planned e’s Day!
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COCKTAILS
CLOVER CLUB This one can’t fail to impress. Ingredients 50ml Dorset Dry Gin 25ml fresh lemon juice 20ml sugar syrup 15ml egg white 6/7 raspberries or a twist of cucumber to garnish Method Muddle the fresh raspberries in a shaker and add Dorset Dry Gin, lemon juice, sugar syrup and egg white (you could use chickpea water instead!). Shake with ice until your hand hurts before sieving into a chilled coup glass.
WWW.CONKERSPIRIT.CO.UK
s tipple < BACK TO CONTENTS >
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music
Tides by Louis Cardozo is a new release this year. Louis is new on the scene and is yet to be bound by genre. Tides is so uplifting and takes the listener on a great journey. Personally, we found it a brilliant song to put on whilst doing boring housework, perfect to showcase your dance moves. When lockdown is over, we can imagine blasting this tune at a campsite around the fire with friends and family. Scan the QR code below with the camera on your smartphone to start listening to Tides.
Hotstepper by John Gibbons is a great get up and go song. A remake of Ini Kamozeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much loved classic, Here Comes the Hotstepper. This ultimate feel-good song is great to put on in the mornings, when motivation is lacking and the weather looks dreary out. Get on those running shoes and go enjoy your exercise for the day.
If you are a fan of Kings we are here at Stay Co already know that they songs this year, The Ban People. The Bandit is a upcoming album, When available on the 5th of order now. This song ha Leon feel to it, with bea stunning vocals. Perfect background.
MUSIC FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS On this page you will find some great music currently streaming from local to well-known artists in their own homes. Enjoy!
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Send in your video links to: stayconnected@spotgraphics.co.uk
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My Head Is a Jungle MK Remix by Wakelmut & Emma Louise is a great bit of house music to listen to on the way to work. This song definitely brings the vibes and allows you to be in a great mindset to start your day off right. We can also imagine blasting this song when coming off the plane once the pandemic is over, as this song feels like such a holiday tune.
Towers new single S T A Y is out now. Towers is a three-piece band consisting of Dan, Mark and Jamie. They are an alternative South Coast rock band, based in the UK. The song is to try and help people through the tough times we are facing in the pandemic. They have described the song writing process as emotional, as they wear their hearts on their sleeves.
Background image courtesy of marcela-laskoski-unsplash
s Of Leon as much as onnected, you might y released two new ndit and 100,000 cheeky taster of their n You See Yourself March or for preas a classic Kings Of autiful guitar riffs and to have on in the
music
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PODCASTS
H C I H W ? T S A C D PO CLICK THE LINKS BELOW for PODCAstS recommended bY ROWAN ELLETT OR simply HOLD YOUR MOBILE CAMERA OVER THE QR CODE FOR QUICK ACCESS: Paul McKenna’s Positivity podcast
Today in Focus
This podcast involves asking celebrities questions about their life. Film stars, entrepreneurs and entertainers are interviewed by Paul, essentially, to ask ‘what makes you happy?’
A podcast hosted by Anushka Asthana and Rachel Humphreys that delves into the deeper meaning of news stories. Different topics include Covid-19, politics in America and Bitcoin.
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PODCASTS Words written by Rowan Ellett, @rowan.ellett on Instagram. Read more of his work in his blog featuring his take on the world in both text and photos. www.mylifeinwordsandphotos www.organisedletters
Novara Media
BBC Earth Podcast:
Novara Media discusses worldwide issues such as climate change, racism and the nonstop coronavirus pandemic. These are the stories that will define the 21st century.
A podcast that discusses nature and science. Episodes cover animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s habits, landscapes they live in and the intimate stories which pop up in these scenarios.
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destination wedding
i lava
you... Santorini is one of the Cyclades islands in the Aegean Sea.The island was the site of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in history which occurred about 3,600 years ago. The eruption left a large caldera surrounded by volcanic ash deposits hundreds of metres deep – forever shaping its rugged landscape.The whitewashed houses of its two main towns, Fira and Oia, cling to cliffs above an underwater caldera (crater).They overlook the sea and small islands to the west aa well as beaches made up of black, red and white lava.
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The dramatic coastline makes the views stunning for wedding backdrops. It is the place for romance so we thought as it is Valentines coming up we will share the best wedding venues on the island. Covid has put a halt to so many holiday plans which could possibly spread across 2021 so why not plan yours for 2022.Weddings abroad will be a popular choice as soon as flights are open and holidays can start again so our advice is to book in early.
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Here are some of our top Santorini wedding venues:
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LE CIEL WEDDINGS AND EVENTS Le Ciel’s spacious open air terrace and indoor areas really set a stunning scene which is completely yours for the duration so you wont see other guests as you would in other hotels.They promise elegance, romance and incomparable memories.They cater for wedding receptions, engagement and birthday parties as well as more intimate occasions. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating and a bar. There is easy access from the road and there are very few steps and wheelchair ramps.The team comprises more than 30 employees, including a DJ and security guards.The standard of service, menu and eye for detail is impeccable.Their intention is simple – to combine a stunning location with an environment of grace and style. www.leciel-santorini.com
destination wedding
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PYRGOS RESTAURANT For 30 years Pyrgos Restaurant has earned the reputation of a great event and wedding reception venue in Santorini. It has a great hilltop location overlooking the caldera with a stunning sunset.With five different areas to chose from and a series of services that guarantee a flawless experience, Pyrgos Restaurant would make a stunning choice. From the ceremony in the church of Aghia Fotini until the wedding reception, the experience of the friendly staff, modern facilities, excellent menu choices with flavours from all over Greece, the beautiful views of the island of Santorini from all halls and areas and the
unsurpassable services will allow you make incredible memories of your day.You can even arrive by helicopter or donkey! www.pyrgos-santorini.com
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SANTOWINES WINERY One of the dreamiest wedding venues in Santorini, Santowines Winery is located in Pyrgos village on the edge of the Caldera cliff, overlooking the volcano and the traditional villages of Fira and Oia. In a private terrace of our winery we will be happy to host your wedding ceremony and wedding reception, offering impeccable customized service. The new winery was completed in 1992 in the village of Pyrgos, < BACK TO CONTENTS >
in a wonderful location on the caldera.They boast one of the most state-of-the-art wineries in Greece technological perfection harmonises wonderfully with the landscape uniqueness of the island. Its innovative architecture is remarkable, as it is built on different levels, just as the famous so-called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;terracesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of the vineyard, i.e. the different levels that the farmers have developed in the farms, in order to facilitate the cultivation of the land. During the wine making process (from receiving the grapes until bottling) they utilise the physical phenomenon of gravity which replaces the use of pumps for the transfer of the must and the wine in order to upgrade the quality of the wines produced.The winery has a capacity of 4,000 tons and is constantly upgraded by investing in new equipment ensuring they always use cutting edge technology in production. In the cellars of the winery, we reserve the largest collection of wines, white, red and Vinsanto that mature in oak barrels. www.santowines.gr
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relationships
7 Top Ways
To Ensure Your Relationship Continues
To Thrive During Lockdown We are currently in another national lockdown, just as we believed that 2021 will bring a positive change in the way we live our lives. Once again, couples are told to stay home and not go out, which means being in the same house can be very testing on the relationship.
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For those who are getting irritated with being in the same vicinity, remember that you both love each other. Still, your nature may require you both to have some space from each other. I would suggest that you start by being honest with each other and explain that you would like the opportunity for both of you to work in separate rooms. You could meet for lunch in the kitchen/dining room or balcony. This would both give you something to look forward to and be yourself in the space where you're working.
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If you need to spend time alone in any part of the house, be honest and let your partner know, so they don't feel like you are avoiding them. Becoming mindful and aware of your partners' feelings during this period is essential, especially with the pandemic's anxiety.
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Feel confident to ask for boundaries, especially if you are in a small house. So if you both need to work in the living room, for instance, create a timetable of when you can use the living room so that you feel free to work efficiently and in your own style. For example, Susan might like to listen to music while working, shutting the world out. Because this is her working style, it is her way of setting boundaries while working. It should not be taken personally as a distancing mechanism.
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Give space/privacy to your partner to have conversations with their friends or family, so they don't feel suffocated or stifled. This will reduce the need to feel irritated or think that they have no one except you to speak to. < BACK TO CONTENTS >
relationships PODCASTS
If you need to spend time alone in any part of the house, be honest and let your partner know
se this opportunity to rediscover fun things to do together in the house after work. This gets you laughing, playing and acting childlike. Take advantage of going to the park together and using the swings, slides if possible.
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Having intimate conversations about things that have happened in the past, that made you feel loved or not so loved will make you feel closer and remind you why you are in a relationship.
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Finally, learn to be more patient and tolerant than usual. You are both learning how to be in the same house for more extended periods. It will take time to adjust.
Contact Duchess Iphie if you need to discuss ways to increase intimacy and reconnect in your relationship at https://linktr.ee/DuchessIphie
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Background image courtesy of kelly-sikkema-unsplash
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Duchess Iphie info@duchesssecrets.com
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legal
Separating ResponsiBilities for separated parents during lockdown
W Rita Gupta is offering Stay Connected readers a 1-hour initial online consultation, including 30 minutes free, to discuss your situation. (For qualifying clients, T&Cs apply).
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ith the kids at home during lockdown, how can you effectively juggle home schooling, working from home, food shopping, and quality family time too? Family lawyer Rita Gupta discusses how to achieve effective co-parenting in 2021. < BACK TO CONTENTS >
As separated parents, you both have shared parental responsibility for your children. (Unless you have a court order that dictates the time your child spends with an absent parent for reasons such as risk.) During the pandemic, the courts have no issues in parents varying child arrangement orders by consent. However, if you are concerned that temporary changes might impact
legal COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR EX Communication is vital for co-parenting success. If you have problems, you can communicate via your solicitor, or use remote means such as a designated email address. Keep communication polite and succinct, avoid using inflammatory language, and don’t be a keyboard warrior!
on your long-term position, or how your court order applies in current circumstances, then seek advice.
Be compassionate Compassionate co-parenting involves sharing the everyday practicalities of life in lockdown. It is unfair (and unsustainable) for one parent to be under more pressure than the other, especially in two key areas: 1. Home schooling 2. Working from home Current regulations allow children to move freely between the homes of separated parents. Remember, the kids don’t have to stay overnight and can visit just for the day.
make more sense for the kids to work online with you.
share your tech If you have spare tech, give it to the kids to use. If you don’t have anything, the government can provide laptops through their school. Some charities can provide reconditioned tech for free.
Share the fun stuff equally
Flexible working from home
It is important children receive consistent messages from separated parents. Be careful of what I call a ‘Santa Claus scenario’, where one parent deals with the schooling and extra curricular activities and the other parent has the children for fun time.
Sharing bandwidth and screen time between lessons and work Zoom meetings is a major challenge for many families. Plan out a home working routine where everyone has time to learn, work, exercise (and eat). Talk to your employer/s about flexible working options around schooling.
Share your skills You both have a lot to offer your children in terms of personal skills, strengths and knowledge. Divide up the week with lessons and activities from you both. Your children will benefit from a wider viewpoint and you’ll build stronger bonds with them too whilst feeling markedly less stressed. Ensure any homework or resource finding is shared too.
Get up to speed The speed and reliability of UK internet connections is a postcode lottery. So, if you have the larger data allowance, faster broadband, or more reliable connection, it may < BACK TO CONTENTS >
ask for help Some parents fear that it may appear that they can’t cope if they ask for help from their ex partner, especially if they had a difficult relationship. However, remember that lockdown 3.0 is a challenge for nearly every family, but can be greater for single or newly separated parents. Co-parenting isn’t easy but by putting the needs of the children first, you can achieve a balance that works for all the family. Rita Gupta - Director - LGFL Ltd www.lgfamilylawyers.co.uk 01189 735521
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STAYCATION
Grapes of thE Grove S
ituated in beautiful countryside with incredible views of the Preseli Hills, The Grove is a luxury hotel in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Although we are in times of lockdown and uncertainty at the moment, it never hurts to plan ahead with holidays. Visit the Grove to experience Wales with the addition of the warmest Welsh welcome. Relax, sit back and enjoy the food and drink on offer. The food is locally sourced, fresh and made with passion. The Grove is fully diverse in its choices for food, no matter if you’re feeling peckish or just need a few nibbles. Afternoon teas are available year-round and weather dependent can be outside on the sunny terrace overlooking the stream. If it’s pouring down you can enjoy your afternoon tea in one of the beautiful dining rooms or in the snug, tucked away for a more private feel. Embrace the inner explorer in you and delve into the
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Pembrokeshire countryside. In hope we get some nicer weather this year, picnics are fully catered for at The Grove. Handmade by The Grove’s brilliant chefs, these delicious hampers are prepared with the freshest local produce and ingredients from the kitchen gardens. Pick your beverages and chose from the various hampers available for pre-order. If you prefer a more sheltered option, chose from the stunning Fernery restaurant or the Artisan rooms. The Fernery restaurant is brilliant for a more formal, intimate setting, and has been awarded 3 prestigious AA Rosettes for the quality of the food each year since 2014. The Good Food Guide restaurant review says that the Fernery Restaurant is “fast becoming one of Wales’ premier dining destinations”. The Artisan Rooms offer a more relaxed atmosphere and dining experience. Overlooking the mesmerising garden terrace, these stylish rooms have a seasonal Welsh inspired menu, perfect for those
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looking to delve into the Welsh culture. The Artisan rooms are dog and children friendly, the perfect way to end a lovely day out in the Welsh countryside. During our stay at The Grove, I was introduced to Catriona Mcgregor. Catriona, the head Sommelier at the hotel, was extremely helpful and informative about the wines available. The attentive nature of her service was noted and she recommended a wine called Montgomery Bacchus & Solaris.
staycation
a welsh wine called montgomery – Bacchus & solaris came recommended and was devine. I had no idea welsh wines could taste so good The Grove offers an incredible selection of over 200 wines from a diverse geographical scope. Having won the AA Wine award for Wales in 2014/15, The Grove also holds a ‘Notable Wine List’ award from the AA since 2010. The food was equally spectacular with impeccable service which makes you want to come back time and again. The Grove is available for special occasions of all nature, paired with personalised service for all types of celebrations and events. www.thegrove-narberth.co.uk
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BUSINESS
Uncovering the wider benefits of... Lawrence Down Financial Planner | Lester Brunt Wealth Management Senior Partner Practice of St. Jamesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place Wealth Management Dickens House, 15 West Borough, Wimborne Minster, Dorset, BH21 1LT t: 01202 695801 m: 07967 000275 l.down@sjpp.co.uk www.lesterbrunt.co.uk
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New research shows that sound financial advice boosts confidence and emotional wellbeing Financial advice is more important than ever. Not only have changes in pensions and financial regulation placed more responsibility for planning retirement income into the hands of individuals, but the coronavirus
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pandemic has also reminded us all of how unforeseen events can rock the foundations of what we had thought was a stable financial footing. The financial benefits of taking advice are well documented. Research undertaken by the International Longevity Centre UK (ILC) in 2019 showed that those
BUSINESS
who take advice are on average £47,706 better off in retirement than those who don’t. But that’s not the end of the story. Building on this study, the ILC has undertaken new research this year that shows financial advice could be an important factor in promoting mental health and wellbeing. Its report “Peace of mind: Understanding the nonfinancial value of financial advice” finds that non-financial benefits may be at least as important as the more easily visible financial ones in achieving this. Participants in the study who had taken financial advice reported that they felt less worried about their future, enjoying the peace of mind that comes from knowing that proper preparation has been made for their later years – and that included those who were already in retirement. They felt more confident that they would achieve their long-term goals and, through
their interactions with an adviser, felt more financially literate and able to understand how those goals would be achieved – and more empowered to make complex financial decisions for themselves. Being in control of their financial future in these ways left them feeling reassured and less worried than they would otherwise have been. But despite these benefits, there remains a significant ‘advice gap’, with fewer than one in six people taking advice. This stems partly from a lack of awareness of the benefits of seeking advice and of how and where to find it. Among those who haven’t taken financial advice, some – especially women – were worried that doing so would actually result in a loss of control, and that decisions would be taken out of their hands, but the experience of the advised participants showed this to be an unfounded fear. However, it remains clear that identifying long-term goals and
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establishing a financial structure to achieve them results in greater emotional wellbeing. Closing the ‘advice gap’ is a vital next step in giving that peace of mind to all. So, the ILC is calling on government, the industry and the FCA to work together to remedy the situation by highlighting both the non-financial as well as the financial benefits of advice, and reassuring individuals that advice will be tailored specifically to their goals. A financial adviser can help with your own financial planning. To receive a complimentary guide covering wealth management, retirement planning or Inheritance Tax planning, contact Lawrence Down at Lester Brunt Wealth Management on 01202 695801 or email l.down@sjpp.co.uk 1ILC, What it’s worth – Revisiting the value of financial advice, November 2019, based on 2014/2016 calculations.
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Image courtesy of greysteve-smith-unsplash
financial advice
TOP APPS
get Appy Ourpact
is an app for android or iPhone in which parents are able to control what times their children are able to access messages and social media apps. Although children often oppose to the use of Ourpact, there are major concerns in society about the over exposure of children to social media targeted towards adults. The app is particularly useful for when children are in the school environment, as access can be restricted to prevent children from using their phones whilst in class.
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The app is free to download and you can get a fourteen day trail of each type of membership for the app but costs a varied monthly fee depending on what access to the app you need.
Reflectly is a diary app in which you can log your daily thoughts. This app is especially useful during this difficult time and feels like an act of selfcare in our ever-busy lives. It allows you to clearly define the lows and highs of your day, along with the ability to upload photos, a rating
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system for each day and inspirational audio. Choose to use the seven-day free trial or sign up for a monthly membership for less than ÂŁ8 per month or an annual fee of ÂŁ37. This app is available on iPhone and Android through the app store or google play store.
The Google Drive app is excellent for storing and managing folders and files of large sizes. With large amounts of free storage available, you can edit, store and collaborate on documents with other users. Basically, it is the free online
versions of Microsoft Office apps such as Excel, Word, Powerpoint a free app until you require more than 15GB of data.You will need an outlook account to get started but once you have, this is an excellent tool to help keep organised and to enhance collaboration on group projects.
Zombies Run is an excellent app to help motivate you to exercise in these trying times. This app runs with a fully immersive story, including sound effects of zombies chasing you. It provides great motivation to run fast, especially if you fear the living dead as much as me! What I love about this app is that you are able to combine your own workout playlists that give you the drive to run alongside the story. The app is well designed, and acts as a sort of audio-book and step counter. It is free to use for the first couple of weeks that you use the app, after week 3 there are options to buy the app to unlock the rest of the content. For ÂŁ5.49 per month, you can be
advert free, and view all the game modes with unlimited access to Zombies, Run! 5k training and The Walk.
TOP APPS
Shazam is an oldie but a fundamentally very useful app to have for all you music lovers out there. It is excellent for those tricky moments when you hear an amazing song on the radio and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t catch the name of it, usually you would let it go into the abyss of song names you will never know, but with Shazam no more! The app identifies the song name and artist with just a short sample of the song. It is free to use and features no pesky adverts!
each venue you enter. The app is conveniently laid out, and easy to use.You can also check symptoms on this app, and tick each one that applies. This app also sends the user notifications to notify if you have been in contact with people with COVID and gives advice on how to deal with the situation if it occurs. It is a free app that is available on Android on Google Play Store or through iPhone and the App store.
NHS COVID-19 is a useful app to have at the moment, and allows the user to sign into track and trace in venues via QR codes. I find this app a lot easier and time saving rather than manually signing into track and trace for < BACK TO CONTENTS >
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business
Starting
a business
during a pandemic Isabela Ingrid www.digithy.com
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Exactly one year ago I was starting my own Digithy, a digital agency focused on a personal approach, with empathic understanding of customers and clients. This was a business idea Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d grown for over two years, and I tested its main concept for over five years, with different startups. It was time to get started and see how I could get to help more businesses with a specialised team and plenty of energy. I had no clue that one month later a pandemic would come, hitting all of us very hard both personally and economically. This crisis mixed all things up again, pushing everyone to think about a different solution, from a different perspective. I lost the first 2 clients I was ready to start working with, and that was just the beginning.
business
In this situation, I also had to rethink my strategy and I changed a few things myself. I moved my focus on 3 main aspects: • Putting together a trained team - all women at this time • Work on branding • Helping businesses free of charge I thought it was worth using this stalling time to create a strong base and be ready to help businesses with digital marketing when they were ready to start again. And it worked fairly well. And now? We are growing, as a womenled team and as a business, now working with different clients. In particular, we’re helping businesses find the best way to reach their audience, using conventional and unconventional channels,
Exactly one year ago I was starting my own Digithy, a digital agency focused on a personal approach, with empathic understanding of customers and clients depending on their audience. We analyse the target, goals and brand positioning, and after creating the strategy we also implement content marketing and communication strategies on websites and social media. We’re 100% committed to the businesses we work with, so much so that if we realise there’s no work we can do to help the company, we transparently say
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that and suggest other options. In a digital world where all we see is a screen, we need to be more aware of the people’s feelings and need to use more empathy in our approach. This is Digithy’s mission: focusing on understanding the real needs of people and getting to reach the right target audience more efficiently and stress-free. What comes next? Although last year taught us that life - and business - can’t be planned in detail, we did set some goals for this year. Some will include team expansion, strategic partnerships and clients’ acquisition. We’ll consolidate the current relationships and look forward to helping more and more businesses grow, introducing ourselves as your digital marketing and content team.
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HOME DESIGN
a k c a sk de
p
stay connected are here to give credit to companies who help communites and the environment so I wanted to include this ingenious cardboard pop-up desk from medworx whicH packs away easily under the bed when not in use Has the pandemic got you working from home? If you don’t have the luxury of a home office, Medworx have got you sorted with their new Pack a desk. Designed and manufactured in the UK, the Pack a desk is made from multi bonded layers of card.This desk uses advanced structural design techniques to ensure a sturdy and strong addition to your home office. Don’t be alarmed, the pack a desk takes only minutes to assemble – no faffing about with screws, glue or special tools. No need for pages of instructions either. The desk takes 30 seconds to pop up or to fold down, so when the workday is over you can fold up the desk, making
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HOME DESIGN
the most of the space in your home. The desk, complete with a unique ‘Delta-V’ strengthening back panel, is sturdy enough to hold 30kg. If you are as conscious about the environment as we are, fear not, the pack a desk is 100% recyclable. It is environmentally friendly and is made from 70% recycled materials. The pack a desk is also available in a junior style too, ideal for the little ones learning from home.The junior pack a desk is fantastic for those
ages 3-10; let your child’s creativity blossom with the desk being a canvas for your little one’s creations. Spend time together colouring in their desk with unisex patterns for home schooling and then pack away when you have finished. Both the adult and junior pack a desk are able to be wiped down on the top surface. Available in a range of different colours: teal, pink, yellow, grey from www.medworx.co.uk < BACK TO CONTENTS >
no faffing about with screws, glue or special tools 37
safe & securE
STAY SAFE
38
Here we talk to Anthony Howell, Director of TGS Security Services for over 18 years, who specialise in a wide range of services, from tour management to close protection and advanced security at venues, listing many A listers and international events as clients. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We help you to create an event or project, making it fun and entertaining whilst mindful of keeping the public safe and compliant of the latest regulations. Our priority is always to protect you, your team and your premises, ensuring everyone has a great experience while staying safe. From the concept stage to the event, we consult on all aspects, and in the pandemic, put a strategy in place to keep everyone safe. â&#x20AC;&#x153; We asked Anthony about the impact that Covid has had on the security industry and where he predicts we will be in 2021. < BACK TO CONTENTS >
How has the Pandemic impacted your business? We had to look at our business as a whole, the events industry was hit really badly and at that time were affected around 60% of our bookings, very quickly we had to look at different angles and pivot the business in a new direction. How did you pivot the business? Initially we focused on consultancy with some of the local authorities and the hospitality industry, with all the new rules and regulations, it became really important that industries had someone to help and guide them. Staff were faced with managing venues in a way that had never been experienced before and were untrained. We helped venues in and around London to manage the transition period, we know its vital that we do not create Covid 19 hotspots and help to keep everyone safe. With the increase of the spread and further lockdowns this was a fast moving target and it was imperative to maintain a calm and professional service at all times. Having managed events with huge crowds, my team were experienced at looking where things could go wrong and putting a strategy in place ready. What happened after that? As the restrictions became tighter and hospitality was forced to reduce, we realised for the first time ever there were a lot of empty buildings, hotels and industrial buildings that would normally have a full complement of
STAY SAFE
staff and customers that were in need of additional security, and that we approached companies to advise and secure the buildings. We discovered also a need for a service labelled as Waking Watch whereby a guard was required to be on site 24 hrs a day in the event of a fire or emergency and quickly secured these too. How do you see the future of security in 2021? Firstly we plan to continue to help businesses to reopen and remain Covid safe, by working closely with our partners to ensure that they are compliant with all Covid regulations and ensure both they and their teams are protected, but also that the business is protected and can function. Speaking of the events industry, I predict a slower recovery until the vaccine has been rolled out and then the future of the hospitality industry will begin. For the foreseeable future we will have increased security and protection for the general public and the advice I say to anyone is to call me, we offer a free Covid consultation. It is vitally important that you have the advice of an experienced crowd management consultant, it isn’t just about security guards. It’s about
securing a venue or event, protecting the business and the public, extra training and extra equipment as well, to be sure we meet the COVID-19 regulations. With over 18 years experience in crowd management, we look for all the things most people do not consider, event planners sometimes focus on the procedure and don’t consider, should something go wrong, how they would manage that safely, that is where we come in and put a worst case strategy in place. I also feel customer service skills are going to be a top priority because you are going to be saying ‘no’ to people and educating them on the new ways, saying, sorry unfortunately, you can’t do this anymore due to COVID-19, but one day you will be, once we come out the pandemic. Anthony, 18 years in Security travelling the world, where did the idea for Jam Rock your catering company come from? Anthony laughs, I was on tour and at a festival and there wasn’t any jerk chicken, now I love Jerk Chicken, so I asked around and checked the caterers and it turned out it wasn’t there, speaking to the organiser he said, well, < BACK TO CONTENTS >
why don’t you do something? So I did. So I created a Jerk Chicken brand and a trailer and mobile catering staff. Since then when we can we take the Jerk Chicken to the Festivals, the crowds and the acts love it. Caribbean food on a premium level, we cover vegan and vegetarian too, when I see a problem I like to provide a solution too, but everyone eats, pops in and has a laugh. It’s a nice vibe. I like it. Tell us about your School in Jamaica, a project close to your heart. On holiday in Jamaica around 10 years ago a friend and I noticed that the island suffered from a lack of education. There is something locally called brain drain – this means most of the skilled people in the Caribbean normally immigrate to America or come to the UK or Canada, which leaves the island lacking resource, so we created a charity and school to help this change. I felt this was my chance to help and give back, I feel really lucky in my life and if I could just help change a child’s future then that would be a great thing to do. I started security for an additional income, whilst still a manager in the government department and I saw the potential of the starting a company and how that could help my family so I pursued it. Would this have worked for anybody? I’m going to say no, but I was lucky it worked for me. For advice on Security Services or a FREE Covid Consultation please contact Anthony on 02484132124
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SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING
social media
HELP
CLICK THE VIDEO TO WATCH THESE FIVE STEPS TO GET AN INSANE SOCIAL MEDIA FOLLOWING. I have literally helped 100’s of clients grow and achieve results, this is suitable for all businesses and is totally transferable.
Debbie Bryan debbieswindon@gmail.com
DIGITAL DANCER Businesses have had to change the way they market themselves – especially during lockdown when people no longer choose newspapers, magazines or do leaflet drops to get their company noticed. Amy Jessica ‘Digital Dancer’ gives us some tips for the new digital world. Email: amy@digitaldancer.co www.digitaldancerltd.com/digital-dancer
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Click above to watch the video from Guy Stout, owner of Templar Financial Associates
info@templar-associates.co.uk 0345 900 1298 www.templar-associates.co.uk
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mental health
Mental health in
lockdown C
OVID-19 has made life increasingly difficult for a lot of people, and this third lockdown is hitting harder than ever for some. The weather is dull and dark, and the nights are longer, making getting outside a daunting task. Feelings of uncertainty and isolation can have negative impacts on your mental health.
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It is important to look after your physical and mental health, especially during lockdown. Mental health can affect you at any point in your life and it is important to have tools to rely on when things get tough. Here are Stay Connectedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tips for improving your mental health during lockdown:
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Routine
Keeping a solid routine can really help reduce stress levels. Perhaps get a paper diary or whiteboard and try planning your week day-by-day. What do you want to achieve that day? This can help keep you feel on track and you feel accomplished at the end of the day when you have ticked off all your to doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. With a routine enjoy better sleep, with none of the worry during the night that you have still things to do.
mental health
Keep in touch
Staying in touch with friends, relatives and loved ones is always important, but now more so than ever. Not only will it boost your mood, but it can also be very beneficial for the recipient of the call.There are so many different ways to stay in touch, but you can make it exciting by incorporating different themes such as pub quiz night.
Stay fit
Gyms are shut and its cold outside. Although it may seem a lot more appealing to stay in the warm, exercise is essential to keeping you at a steady weight as well as in a good mood. Cleaning is a good form of exercise that does not require going outside; actions like sweeping and mopping are good at burning calories. Use household items as weights if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have access to dumbbells at home.Youtube is specifically great for DIY at home workouts too, such as yoga or high intensity workouts, just chose whatever suits your goals best.
Do things you enjoy
Hobbies are an excellent way to add excitement and passion into your day. When you feel low or anxious is it easy to forget about doing things you enjoy.The new year is here so why not start a new hobby, even starting a new hobby with those you live with can be
really therapeutic. For example: baking, needle felting or any type of crafting can be a shared hobby.
Relax and be mindful
Although for many, life will still be as hectic and as jam packed as usual, but it is important to make time for yourself.To relax and unwind try running a bath and making it luxurious, with bubble bath, a face mask and light a candle at the end of the day.
Join an online club
If you are struggling with feeling isolated during lockdown, online clubs can give you a sense of < BACK TO CONTENTS >
community and companionship. Online book clubs have really taken off during lockdown, and Stay Connectedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite book club is Rees Witherspoons book club @ reesesbookclub. She posts book reviews each month via pictures on Instagram.
Reach out for help
Samaritans are a UK based charity, that help people who are struggling to cope. No matter if its day or night they are only a phonecall away.The volunteers are non-judgemental and are an objective ear to listen and help in times of need. www.samaritans.org
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HEALTH & beauty CHLOE MAKEUP MASTERCLASS Welcome to Stay Connected Digital’s beauty section of the magazine.This one’s for all you makeup kings and queens out there. Neat eyebrows can be difficult to achieve and they have taken our Editor Chloe a long time to grasp.You will need eyebrow pomade, an angled eyebrow or eyeliner brush, highlighter, a cotton bud, a steady hand and plenty of patience. Watch the video to learn how to get picture perfect brows. >>>>>
Have you got those February blues? Are you trying to lose weight, but you just don’t know where to start? It is all fine and well saying you will do it yourself but losing weight can be difficult on your own. There are a variety of reasons you might need a personal trainer, perhaps you’ve tried exercise but cannot seem to find time to fit it into your hectic schedule. Many people find that the added accountability is extremely beneficial. Abbie Curtis is not your average personal trainer, she is also a specialist in nutrition, mindset and fitness. Having worked in fitness and nutrition for years, Abbie believes that combining the holistic mindset with your training will benefit and change your workout game forever.
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high brow
ABBIE CURTIS FIT
Abbie comes highly recommended with brilliant client comments. Reach your peak with the help of a well-known and well trusted trainer. Perfect for men and women alike, Abbie can help you. Treat yourself
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to a full mind and body M.O.T. that your body is craving. Contact Abbie on her website www.abbiecurtisfit.co.uk
s p i t Top 5vviinngg tthhoossee
HYPNOTHERAPY
o ss d mo n d u n o u p o orr rreem p ffo s s a ma ttm s i s i r h C ’ a ‘extr
Just when we thought we couldn’t get any heavier, along comes Christmas and then, another lockdown!! As a hypnotherapist and coach, I am getting LOADS of requests from people who just want to lose that extra weight that they have gained during lockdowns and Christmas. Christmas was about enjoying that one day and then plunged back into Lockdown and back to boredom eating and snacking…. not allowed out, not going out to work, gyms closed… the list is a perfect recipe for gaining weight! So here are my top tips for keeping on track:
DON’T get on the scales every day
It is not helpful and actually I have found it to be the opposite of motivating! Sometimes I feel that I had a really “good” day. I didn’t snack, managed my portions well and yet, what’s this? The scales show the same or WORSE than yesterday. Every day, you will not get a true picture of where you are – you need to do this weekly, not daily.
Be realistic
Be realistic with your plans. Be kind. If you have been sitting, eating, enjoying your food – you will feel so restricted if you try to lose too much too quickly. Suddenly deciding to eat only salad, do 200 squats a day and drinking 2 pints of water will soon become very very painful and unpleasant, and be honest, do we tend to stick to something that is painful and unpleasant, or do we try to find ways to get away from it – on a technicality?
Fluid
Fluid is really important and if you are anything like me, I forget to drink enough a lot of the time. This means that I feel hungry more often because the signal of “I am thirsty” and the signal of “I am hungry” is pretty much the same. If you KNOW that this isn’t really the time for you to feel hungry, or you are confident that you have eaten enough at the last meal, it is likely that you are more thirsty than hungry. Have a drink of water, or something you like (try to avoid too much sugary drinks) and then wait for 20 minutes. Are you still getting that “feeling”, then you are probably hungry – so eat something.
Moving
OK so this is not where I tell you all that you need to do a Joe Wickes workout 3 times a day everyday, but I will tell you – you need to move. We are in a situation where we might conceivably spend the whole day sat on < BACK TO CONTENTS >
our bottoms and be on zoom calls, or telephone, or in front of the TV. Now, I am a bit hardcore, I do 4x45 minute workouts a week with my Personal Trainer, who is amazing, across zoom. But I have specific goals to meet. If I was only interested in keeping the weight off and to feel better, I might think of slightly less hardcore things. Like going for a brisk walk. Doing some stretches. Following a you tube work out. Or just moving more than I usually do. Consistency is king – find something you like to do and keep doing it. Just ramp up the time, or how quickly you move, or the distance you travel to gain more benefits.
Food choices
Now you know whether what you are eating is right or wrong. You know how much you are eating - is it enough, or to much? You know this stuff. You just need to care enough to make some tough choices. Do I need to eat 4 biscuits, or will 2 satisfy my craving? Do I need to fill my plate with food, or can I keep some for lunch tomorrow? Do I need to eat at 10pm, or can I stop eating at 7 and be strict with myself with regards to snacks? Whatever change from the norm you make, WILL work and WILL make a difference. These are my tips, hypnotherapy can also help you to get your mind in the right place to allow you to reach your goals. So do reach out if you need to – but also, let me know what you tried and what worked for you claire@hynpnotherapyathome.com
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books
shine brightly Joanna Knowles, 40 is a local author who published her debut novel, Female Fireflies, in Autumn 2019. Born and bred in Bournemouth, Joanna has always felt inspired to write. Even from a young age, she could be found writing stories in the classroom and often had her head in a book. Her passion remained and she has continued writing throughout her life. While her children were young, she completed an BA (Hons) in English Literature through the Open University; often juggling classic literature with baby bottles and is now in the throes of a master’s degree in Creative Writing. Joanna believes that; ‘My inspiration can come from anything and everything. A change in seasons, a passing thought, a dream or even a childhood memory that resurfaces when I’m least expecting it. A vintage necklace, a rusty gate,
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a lighthouse. Anything. There is a potential story everywhere.’ She was diagnosed with an auto-immune disease back in 2015, but rather than view her diagnosis negatively, she turned it around and began blogging about it; resulting in a successful blog that saw her writing being published both online and in magazines, both in the UK and in Europe. Her blog reached out to all in a humorous yet honest account of coping with an autoimmune disease and the feedback encouraged her to continue with her passion to write and finish her first novel. Taking seven years to finish, Female Fireflies was longlisted for the BPA First Novel Award in 2018 and gave Joanna the confidence boost to self-publish and hopes readers will be inspired by its tagline: ‘A heart-warming journey of heartache and betrayal showing the true strength and endurance of four ordinary women who, when together,
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shine like the true fireflies they are.’ Joanna feels passionate about the link between reading and writing, feeling they go hand in hand and hopes one day to have the opportunity to visit local schools and encourage and inspire children to pick up a pen or book and consume them. She states that, ‘the excitement of reading and writing can weaken as children see both habits as chores. I want to bring back that enthusiasm and encourage all children to write and read anything that they are interested in. Reading gives the child an opportunity to jump into an imaginary world of excitement, it opens up their minds to the impossible, and it encourages them to view life as an opportunity to do good.’ Joanna has now completed two novels and is in the throes of writing her third and hopes to one day write a children’s novel.
books
y To contact Joanna for interviews/ quotes, please call 07505 829327 or email joanna_knowles@live.co.uk To follow Joanna’s journey, you can find her @ www.joannaknowles.com Facebook - Joanna Knowles - Author Twitter - Joanna KnowlesAuthor @ JoKnowles34 Instagram – joannaknowlesauthor
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books
great reads
CHLOE has been read lots during lockdown to keep busy so Check out these 3 great readS which come highly recommended
Irvine Welsh, a Scottish Novelist well known for his 1993 novel Trainspotting, has a variety of other books exploring Scotland, the dialect and what life in Scotland is like. A Decent Ride has been described as Irvineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s funniest and filthiest book yet. Based in Edinburgh, A Decent Ride features the main character of Terry Lawson who is shameless and comical. Be prepared to read it in a Scottish accent and enjoy the wild ride. blackwells.co.uk
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books
Background image courtesy of olia-gozha-unsplash
Scar Tissue is a brilliant autobiography of Anthony Kiedis. If you are a Red Hot Chili Peppers fan, you will already know he is the lead singer. This autobiography is quite intense, and does mention hardcore drug usage, but explains the harrowing and entertaining life story of Anthony. Complete with coloured and black & white photos to create an immersive read. waterstones.com
The Little Book of Meditations is an excellent book for relaxing and unwinding in a world that seems so nonstop and busy right now. Meditation is an ancient art of training the mind and your attention to achieve a sense of calm. This book explains the process of meditation, with a guide for beginners. It is an excellent read when stress levels are high, and is beautifully illustrated as an added bonus! wordery.com
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SOCIAL MEDIA
JUST FOR
FUN WITH SO MANY QUARANTINE SOCIAL MEDIA POSTS GOING ROUND WE COULDNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T RESIST ADDING A FEW TO MAKE US GIGGLE
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Background image courtesy of jason-leung-unsplash
SOCIAL MEDIA
Send in your funnies to: hello@stayconnected.co.uk
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