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Vakkaru Maldives unveils new fitness package

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World-renowned fitness expert Yasmin Karachiwala is bringing her ‘Hack Your 21st Century Digitised Body’ retreat to Vakkaru Maldives from 9th – 13th August 2019. Awarded the ‘Best Fitness Instructor’ by VOGUE, Yasmin Karachiwala and her team have created a bespoke programme to help guests rev up their daily routine.

With over 26 years in the industry and known as the pioneer of Pilates in India, Yasmin is India’s first ‘Balanced Body Master Pilates’ instructor and ‘Fletcher Pilates’ instructor. With numerous awards and accolades to her name, her elite client list reads like the cover of a fashion magazine. From India’s A-lister’s Katrina Kaif to Deepika Padukone, celebrities train with Yasmin to sculpt, tone and help look their ultimate best self.

Yasmin Karachiwala

Harnessing all her knowledge and experience, Yasmin invites guests to unplug and reset at Vakkaru Maldives. “I am absolutely thrilled to be bringing my brand of fitness to the Maldives for the first time. I am looking forward to “Hack Your 21st Century Digitised Body” as I have created a holistic experience where guests will be able to take away a little bit of everything. My personal goal is to increase your knowledge on Pilates and to beat the common misconception that you need equipment to work out. I will also be joining forces with the culinary team at Vakkaru Maldives to curate my ultimate breakfast table every morning, spend an afternoon sharing my hacks on the best travel-friendly snacks and smoothie concoctions as meal replacements and share some of my well-kept secret recipes for desserts. At my masterclass, I want you to understand that the food you eat must not be a tedious diet that you have picked out of a magazine, but a variable routine that you look forward to each morning,”says Yasmin Karachiwala.

Nestled within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll in the Maldives, Vakkaru Maldives is the perfect setting to bask in the ultimate luxury of time and space where guests are invited to relax, reflect and refocus. General Manager Nicholas Mason says “We recognise that our guests are on a lifelong, personal and emotional quest towards a fulfilling health and wellness goal and we are dedicated to ensuring they have access to the best”.

Guests can book an all-inclusive retreat or a class-by-class session. The programme includes:

9 August 2019 – Day 1
8.30am – Morning Pilates at Main Pool Side Deck
6.30pm – Sunset Tabata at Vakku Beach

10 August 2019 – Day 2
8.30am – Beach Pilates Circuit Training at Isoletta Beach
6.30pm – Pilates with Props at Gym

11 August 2019 – Day 3
8.30am – 20-20-20 Pilates at Lagoon Bar
6.30pm – Vakku Beach Cardio with Tone-y Bands

12 August 2019 – Day 4

8.30am – HIIT at Isoletta Beach
6.30pm – Sunset Yoga at Merana Spa’s Wellness Area

13 August 2019 – Day 5
8.30am – Free-hand Pilates at Gym
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Yasmin Karachiwala’s 5-Day “Hack Your 21st Century Digitised Body” is priced at:

  • Beach Pool Villa US$7954
  • Over-Water Villa US$6024

Inclusive of:

  • 5 nights’ in above mentioned villa category
  • Half Board Meal Plan ie; daily breakfast and dinner
  • Return transfers either via seaplane or domestic flight (subject to international arrival time, weather and availability)
  • 1x 60-minute body massage at Merana Spa
  • Access to Yasmin Karachiwala’s “Hack Your 21st Century Digitised Body”
  • Green taxes and other applicable taxes

Alternatively, guests may book individual classes at US$70+ per sessio

This 2019, complementing Vakkaru’s island offerings will be a collection of curated, ultra-immersive and cherishable guest experiences in collaboration with luxury guest experiences specialist, The Magnolia Creative Collaborations. From culinary greats to wellness mentors, from scent experts to fitness guru’s, from luxurious fashion collaborations to exquisite artisanal pop-ups, Vakkaru Maldives will be inspiring guests to create timeless memories, effortlessly.

For reservations and general information, please visit vakkarumaldives.com or contact reservations@vakkarumaldives.com.

About Vakkaru Maldives

Vakkaru Maldives is a secluded tropical island resort located within the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, in the heart of the Indian Ocean. Only 30 minutes north of Male International Airport by seaplane, Vakkaru – meaning coconut timber in Dhivehi – is an unforgettable paradise blessed with powder soft, brilliant white sand, crystal clear turquoise water, 360-degree uninterrupted views and sprawling coral reefs with unique marine biodiversity. Keeping the natural beauty of the island as unspoilt as possible – including retaining over 2,300 fully grown coconut trees – and drawing on the rich traditions of the locale, design elements are focused on Maldivian style fused with the finest natural resources and contemporary interior. Guests can revel in the choice of 125 beach and over water villas and suites, as well as four sensational restaurants, two bars, a wine cellar and an outstanding array of treatments in the over-the-water Merana Spa. Facilities also include Splash Dive and Water Sports, two tennis courts, a badminton court, the Parrotfish Club for children below 12 years, Coconut Club for teens and an overwater gymnasium with personal trainer.

Bargain discounted breaks at top UK Spas

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With over 600 spas in the UK and Worldwide, spabreaks.com can create the perfect package for you. Whether you are looking to treat someone special, relax yourself or you are searching for that ideal gift Spabreaks.com has something for everyone.

Here is a selection of great priced discount breaks at many of the UK’s top spas.

uk spa discounts

Radisson Blu opens new luxury hotel in Prague

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Radisson Blu, the upper upscale hotel brand that delivers a positive and personalized service in stylish spaces, is proud to announce the opening of a new Radisson Blu Hotel in Prague – a city that is consistently ranked as one of the top 10 destinations in the world. The reopening of this modern hotel follows a remarkable transformation of an existing property, with major capital investment going into the project to upgrade and rebrand the former hotel.

The opening of the new hotel follows a remarkable transformation of an existing property, with major capital investment going into the project to upgrade and rebrand the former hotel.

Today, the Radisson Blu Hotel, Prague features 160 luxurious guest rooms and suites, designed with modern conveniences that complement the building’s classical, Art Nouveau architecture. Leisure and business travelers alike have the opportunity to stay in one of Europe’s most popular destinations, with access to congress venues; a wide range of museums, theatres, galleries; and a blooming food scene.

Yilmaz Yildirimlar, Area Senior Vice President, Central & Southern Europe, Radisson Hotel Group, said: “We’re excited to open this historic hotel in a prime location. It is our first leased property in Southeastern Europe and represents our confidence in the market. We see the Radisson Blu Hotel, Prague as the perfect business hub and a superb venue for the conferences, meetings and events sector. The hotel will complement our Park Inn Hotel Prague, and we´re proud of our well-positioned footprint in one of Europe’s most exciting cities.”

Lars Wenaas, Chairman of the property owner, Wenaasgruppen, said: “We are delighted to reopen this remarkable property in Prague as a Radisson Blu hotel after an extensive renovation. Wenaasgruppen now has 26 hotels in large European cities, with a total of 10,972 guestrooms.”

Set in an original Art Nouveau building from the 19th Century, the brand-new hotel preserves historic features while adding a modern finish to its interior. Located alongside Charles Square, between Prague’s Old Town and New Town, the hotel is the ideal starting point for holding business meetings, exploring the famous sights or heading on a shopping spree in the city center (which is within walking distance of the hotel). The hotel is also easily accessible, with Václav Havel International Airport Prague located 18km from the property.

When it comes to food and drinks, guests enjoy upscale gastronomic experiences at the chic surroundings of The Restaurant or visit The Bar with views of Prague’s lively streets. Guests will be tempted to post Instagram stories with views of Prague Castle from the seasonal rooftop terrace or their workout sessions in the fitness room.

The meeting and events facilities at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Prague feature eight meeting rooms for up to 150 delegates. They are an ideal choice for conferences, corporate events, elegant gala dinners and smaller brainstorming sessions. Most of the meeting rooms provide natural daylight, while delegates can enjoy trendy catering options, modern built-in AV technology and free high-speed Wi-Fi.

 

Tobias Krappen, General Manager of the Radisson Blu Hotel, Prague, said: “We’re proud to welcome our guests with the full Radisson Blu experience, including its personalized service and exquisite atmosphere. For leisure and business travelers, we are the perfect partner to help create the most memorable travel experiences in one of Europe’s most exciting cities.”

A one night stay at Radisson Blu Hotel, Prague starts from £118 on a bed and breakfast basis.

For more information, please visit: https://www.radissonblu.com/en/hotel-prague

Highlights of historic Prague: https://blog.radissonblu.com/5-highlights-historic-prague/

 

Author’s inspirational novel has a message for women

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In a novel exploring themes of motherhood, womanhood, blended families, career changes, and hypnotherapy, Nikki Vallance asks if it is nature, nurture, destiny, or decision-making that leads us to where we are right now?

And she does so through a book featuring a cast of strong and relatable female characters in their forties – which is often something missing in books. Nikki wanted to write something that she, women at a point of transition, and the writers she coaches can connect with.

Nikki says: ‘I do think, in the same way that the YA market has become established in recent years, there is definitely room for more books with relatable older characters, OA if you will. Often readers turn to books when life is in a state of flux and sometimes seeing yourself reflected in the characters can help steer you through.’

Pivotal looks at the multiple paths a life may take at the crossroads of each significant decision. The premise centres on the decisions we make in life and, the self-determination versus destiny debate. How many doors does one person open in a lifetime? When you pass through a door does your life change forever or do you have power over who you become by the choices you make?

It centres around a cast of four. Dulcie Braybrooke is breaking through as a celebrated ceramicist. Elizabeth is a lonely City head-hunter. Annie is a teacher who’s lost her verve. Liza is a lap dancer with a strong will and a tough life.

When a mysterious bequest throws each of the four into chaos, they seek support in the guise of hypnotherapist, Dr Kath O’Hannon. Through a process of self-discovery, their new-found knowledge weighs heavily, as they unpick four decades of life choices. They could accept the windfall, yet if they do, something entirely unexpected lies around the corner…

Each of them has a decision to make, based on where they have been – and where they are going.

Nikki’s favourite quote is from George Eliot – ‘It’s never too late to be who you might have been.’ She says: ‘I’ve been quoting it ever since I began coaching long before I started writing the novel. To me it perfectly sums up my philosophy, an inspirational phrase to encourage anyone who feels they might want to change direction. I do believe you can achieve anything you set your mind to regardless of the path you have previously chosen.’

Discounts on luxury hotels

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Shop the Love Island Collection

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Perfect for that romantic holiday getaway

This clothing range is well worth looking at even for us older ladies – these leggings, for example, are very flattering and can be worn under a sexy silky blouse!

The road to fitness starts here with cycling bargains

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Everything from top of the range bikes and every conceivable accessory

New style bargains for your summer wardrobe

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50% off

The Closet summer sale is now on and continues until 25 June.  Beautiful clothes at a 50% discount.

What’s hot in perfume now!

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Never buy perfume in a department store again – as you will definitely be paying over the odds for it.

Here we have some examples of bargains available online at Fragrance Direct.

In addition on Monday17th from 9am until Tuesday 18th there is a flash sale of 10% off all orders over £20 with code FLASHTEN

 

10% off Burberry

10% off Joop!

10% off Paco Rabanne

10% off Stella MacCartney

Red wine molecule causes a drop in blood pressure

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A new treatment for high blood pressure could be on the horizon after British Heart Foundation-funded scientists today revealed how a molecule found in red wine causes drops in blood pressure. The study, published in the journal Circulation, sheds light on how the compound could help scientists combat heart and circulatory diseases.

Resveratrol is a compound produced by the skins of certain fruits in self defence against insects, bacteria and fungi. It is best known for its presence in grapes and red wine. The compound has been touted as an elixir capable of combating several diseases including cancer, dementia and heart and circulatory diseases. However, despite exciting findings of benefits in cell and animal studies, so far scientists have been mostly unable to effectively translate these findings into treatments for human disease. In addition, the exact mechanisms behind resveratrol’s effects have not been understood.

Researchers from King’s College London gave mice with induced high blood pressure 320mg/kg of resveratrol in their diet for 15 days. The blood pressure of mice fed resveratrol in their diet dropped by around 20mmHg compared to mice fed a normal diet.

The researchers showed that resveratrol caused the blood vessels of the mice to relax, and blood pressure to drop, by oxidising a protein called PKG1a in the blood vessel wall. They then showed that resveratrol works in the same way in smooth muscle cells from human blood vessels.

According to the researchers, no current blood pressure lowering medications target this pathway and the findings could lead to the development of new drugs. The findings have also revealed that resveratrol, previously labelled an antioxidant, acts as an oxidant to lower blood pressure.

The team have suggested that the blood-pressure lowering effects of resveratrol might actually be amplified in people with heart and circulatory disease. In order to oxidise PKG1a, resveratrol has to be activated by free radicals first, which are found at higher concentrations in heart patients.

The findings do not mean the public should start drinking more red wine. For a human to consume the same doses of resveratrol used in the study, they would need to drink around 1,000 bottles of red wine a day. The researchers explain that such high doses of resveratrol were needed because in its current form resveratrol does not dissolve well and is broken down by the body before it can reach its target in the blood vessel wall.

Future drug developments may rely on altering the chemical structure of resveratrol to make it easier to dissolve and more resistant to breakdown, to ensure more of the compound reaches the target cells. Scientists may also develop entirely new drugs, which mimic the effects of resveratrol.

Dr Joseph Burgoyne, Senior Lecturer in Cardiovascular Sciences at King’s College London who led the study said:

“We’re slowly realising that oxidants aren’t always the villain. Our research shows that a molecule once deemed an antioxidant exerts its beneficial effects through oxidation. We think that many other so-called ‘antioxidants’ might also work in this way.

“Our work could lay the foundations for chemically altering resveratrol to improve its delivery to the body, or designing new, more potent drugs which use the same pathway. In the future, we could have a whole new class of blood pressure drugs.”

Professor Metin Avkiran, Associate Medical Director at the British Heart Foundation said:

“Unfortunately, this isn’t the all clear to open a bottle of merlot. To get the human equivalent dose of resveratrol used here, you’d need to drink an impossible amount of red wine every day.

“This study reveals the surprising way in which resveratrol works and opens up the possibility of new blood pressure drugs which work in a similar way. The findings bring us a step closer to tackling this ‘silent killer’ which puts people at risk of having a devastating stroke or heart attack.
“Although you can buy resveratrol supplements, the best way to keep your blood pressure under control is through a healthy lifestyle, a balanced diet and taking any medicines prescribed by your doctor.”

Background facts:

There are around 14.4 million adults in the UK with high blood pressure, with an estimated 6-8 million who are undiagnosed or uncontrolled. High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major risk factor for heart and circulatory diseases including strokes and heart attacks.

It’s thought that significant numbers of people who are prescribed medications for high blood pressure do not take them.

During May Measurement Month, the BHF is encouraging the public to get to know their numbers. A normal blood pressure is less than 140/90mmHg. For more information, please visit our website.

To request interviews or for more information please contact the BHF press office by emailing newsdesk@bhf.org.uk or calling 020 7554 0164. (07764 290 381 – out of hours).

About the British Heart Foundation:

One in four of us in the UK and one in three globally die from heart and circulatory diseases. That’s why the British Heart Foundation funds world‐leading research into their causes, prevention, treatment and cure. Advances from our research have saved and improved millions of lives, but heart diseases, stroke, vascular dementia and their risk factors such as diabetes still cause heartbreak on every street. With the public’s support, our funding will drive the new discoveries to end that heartbreak. Find out more at bhf.org.uk

New romance novel from Lisa Hobman

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When writer Lisa Hobman left England in 2012 and relocated to Scotland, she instantly knew her growing writing career would be surrounded with boundless inspiration. And it’s paid off with gusto, with Hobman achieving bestseller status on both sides of the Atlantic.

Hobman’s hallmark for feel-good, humanity-rich romance plays out on every page of her new novel, ‘A Summer of New Beginnings’. Meet a travel writer, an assignment to cycle Scotland’s North Coast 500 route – and a series of life-changing discoveries that will set readers on their own course for adventure.

Synopsis: Meet Zara Bailey, a travel writer paid to cover some of the globe’s most luxurious locations. Jetting from wooden huts on stilts in turquoise seas to boutique hotels with roaring fires to 7* penthouse suites with panoramic views of the world’s most glamorous cities… Zara knows hers is the definition of a dream job!

So she is seriously shocked to receive her next assignment; Scotland’s Northcoast 500 route. By bicycle. Sleeping in a tent so basic it can’t remotely be dressed up as glamping!

But this could be just the distraction the recently heartbroken Zara needs. No men, no romance, just the breathtakingly rugged Highland scenery. Until she meets croft owner Lachlan Grant, and his black and white Border Collie Bess, that is…

“This story is incredibly uplifting, and heavily inspired by the beauty and mystery of Scotland,” explains the author, who didn’t start writing until her forties. “I admit I haven’t cycled the North Coast 500 route (yet!!), but every location and setting in the book is included because it’s somewhere my family has visited and fallen in love with. If you love Scotland, or have just dreamed of visiting, this is the book for you.”

Continuing, “It’s also perfect for those of us who love a story that sends the heartstrings tugging and leaves us feeling empowered and positive about the power of love. Read it on the beach, out on your deck or inside on a rainy day – you’ll be singing The Proclaimer’s hit in your head long after you turn the last page!”

‘A Summer of New Beginnings’, from Aria Fiction, is available now:

 

About the author, in her own words: 

Back in 2014 I had the huge honour of being shortlisted in the Romantic Novelists Association, Romance Novel of the Year – Contemporary Romance Category (RoNA), for my debut novel Bridge Over the Atlantic. This book was re-published in 2017 when I signed a four book deal with Aria Fiction. The new title is A Seaside Escape and the new version has been very well received.

I’m a happily married mum of one with two energetic dogs who make cameo appearances in some of my books. I love writing and creating new characters and now have the pleasure of writing almost full time.

 

I am also a singer and have played a number of venues including The Highland Festival as well as appearing in ‘Stars in Their Eyes’ in 1996/7 as Alanis Morissette.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=jFfewpvPU0c

In 2012 my family and I relocated from England to our favourite place in the world, Scotland, and we are now happily ensconced in village life. This stunning country was the inspiration for my writing career and so it’s only right that it features in all of my books.

Writing has always been something I’ve enjoyed, although in the past it has centered on poetry and song lyrics; some of which appear in my stories. But to now be a published author is a real dream come true. I have now had two publishing contracts and have fourteen published titles under my belt.

I’ve recently completed my four book contract with UK publisher Aria Fiction – an imprint of award winning Head of Zeus and I have many more books in the pipeline! You can follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

 

I have a lifelong condition called Myasthenia Gravis and so I’m proud of what I have achieved while managing the symptoms, and I hope that others with the condition can be inspired to follow their dreams.

Fruit and vegetables lower risk of depression – new research reveals

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Increasing the amount of fruit and vegetables people eat lowers their risk of clinical depression, new research has found.

The study discovered that eating, for example, four extra portions of fruit and vegetables a day can boost people’s mental health to such an extent that it can offset half the negative psychological impact of divorce and a quarter of the psychological damage of unemployment.

Other studies have used people’s subjective responses to surveys to discover a link between eating fruit and vegetables with improved wellbeing.

But this is one of only a few studies that has found objective evidence of the association between fruit and vegetables and psychological health.

Redzo Mujcic, of Warwick Business School, author of the paper alongside Andrew Oswald, of the University of Warwick, said: “This is an interesting finding and makes the case for an empirical link between fruit and vegetables and improved mental wellbeing more powerful.

Redzo Mujcic, of Warwick Business School co-authored the paper

Andrew Oswald, University of Warwick co-author

“The effect is not small as well. If people eat around seven or eight portions of fruit and vegetables a day the boost in mental wellbeing is as strong as divorce pushing people the other way, to a depressed state.

“We found being made unemployed had a very bad and significant effect on people’s mental health, greatly increasing the risk of depression and anxiety. But eating seven or eight portions of fruit and vegetables a day can reduce that by half.

“And the effect is a lot quicker than the physical improvements you see from a healthy diet. The mental gains occur within 24 months, whereas physical gains don’t occur until you are in your 60s.

“This is an important preliminary finding as governments and healthcare policymakers are currently more interested in the determinants of mental ill-health, such as clinical depression and high levels of anxiety, rather than people’s subjective assessment of their wellbeing as used in previous research.”

Dr Mujcic and Professor Oswald used data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, which has been done annually since 2001.

In it respondents are asked if they have been diagnosed with depression or anxiety along with several questions about their diet and lifestyles.

The study used a representative sample of 7,108 respondents who answered they had not been diagnosed with depression or anxiety in 2007, to see if their diet could predict their chance of depression two years later.

The results revealed an inverse relationship between fruit and vegetables and future depression or anxiety – ie the more fruit and vegetables people ate the less likely they were to be diagnosed with a mental illness in later periods.

“If people increase their daily intake of fruit and vegetables from zero to eight they are 3.2 percentage points less likely to suffer depression or anxiety in the next two years,” said Dr Mujcic.

“That might not sound much in absolute terms, but the effect is comparable to parts of major life events, like being made unemployed or divorced.

“We tested for reverse-causality – ie whether it might be that depression or anxiety leads to people eating less fruit and vegetables – but we found no strong statistical evidence of this.

“However, the next natural step is to do a randomised controlled trial to examine the causal relationship between diet and psychological wellbeing in society.”

 

Eradicating gum disease – at last I learn how to floss properly!

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by Avril O’Connor

Most of us know that the most important method of preventing gum disease is to floss daily,  as well as meticulously brushing our teeth.

But my personal experience of flossing has been a disaster. I have bought every conceivable kind of flossing device known to man including those expensive electric cleaners that supposedly remove plaque and debris by firing  water at the equivalent of 120 miles per hour (allegedly). But even the latter device is rubbish at removing the build up of nasty smelly plaque, as I suspected!

And its confirmed to me by Theodora Little, a Dental Hygienist who specialises in prevention of gum disease at the Holford Partners Curaden Dental Clinic in London’s Bond Street.

Swiss healthcare company Curaden has developed a Bleeding on Brushing (BOB) app which is used to identify gum disease and the size of gaps between teeth so that the correct interdental brush can be used

First of all she uses a special application, Bleeding on Brushing, created by Swiss healthcare company Curaden, to identify which areas have gum disease  and also what size interdental  brush is best for me and creates a diagram. And its not good news – things were worse than I thought. The red dots in the diagram indicate gum disease/bleeding and  green/blue dots are the size of Curaprox brush best for me.

 

Gum disease revealed by red dots and the green/blue ones relate to the correct size Swiss Curaprox interdental brush for the gaps between my teeth

 

Theadora explains that successful flossing is a technique and she explains that I need to insert the interdental cleaner between my teeth at an angle – making a circular over movement for the top teeth and the reverse for the bottom ones.  Using that method – rather than trying to push the brush in vertically – means that the brush is inserted at an angle so it does not bend.  You then pull it downwards and move it in and out to get to all the crevices. My mouth bleeds a lot but the good news is that if I do  this daily the gum disease will go away in a few weeks.  The Curaprox interdental brushes can be washed and used time and time again which is also good news. But I also need a trip to the hygienist to strip away the hard plaque that is now there.

I am delighted that I have got the hang of flossing at last. I wonder why dentists don’t offer this as a paid for by patients service? I think we would all rather pay to prevent this damage to our gums which can also have other serious health repercussions, doctors have discovered.

Not surprisingly gum disease doesn’t just stay in the mouth. It can spread germs/pathogens all over the body.

Nearly half of all adults over age 30 have periodontal disease,13 which is associated with cardiovascular, lung, kidney, bone, and Alzheimer’s diseases. And it gets worse the older you get with 70% of adults aged over 65 having gum disease

Sof you really want to get rid of gum disease then you really need to learn how to floss properly. And taking an oral probiotic which restores the healthy balance of the microbiome also helps. These two have been identified by doctors: Streptococcus salivarius M18, which kills harmful oral bacteria and goes on to help rebalance the oral microbiome, andLactobacillus plantarum L-137, which boosts oral immune function and promotes healing.

What causes gum disease?

Well its not just one thing.  A combination of factors including poor oral hygiene, poor diet and lifestyle factors, drugs, and disease, which upset the delicate microbiome balance. The resulting microbial imbalance known as dysbiosis—allows excessive growth of poisonous organisms in the mouth.

One of the culprits is found in food and called fermentable carbohydrate which produce lactic acid and other organic acids that promote enamel and dentine demineralisation and softening of the enamel that leads to decay. The harmful bacteria also produces a biofilm, a bit like glue that eventually becomes plaque.  This it the coating that hygienists scrape off your teeth. Gingivitis happens when this plaque stimulates an immune response in the gums around the teeth causing them to become , inflamed, irritated, swollen, red and often easily bleeding. This can lead to periodontitis in which the bacteria go on to destroy the supporting structures of the teeth and can lead to tooth loss.

 

Is your doctor hitting the bottle – new research

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A nationwide study of British employees has revealed as many as 86 percent of doctors feel pressure to get drunk, due to a “workplace drinking culture”.

Railway workers came second (82 percent), and IT workers a close third (81 percent).

 

Who is drinking more units than is good for their health?

Overall, almost a third of the employed Britons who took part in the study, believe they would be at a disadvantage at work if they didn’t drink alcohol, despite many wanting to cut down or stop completely.

The research revealed the extent to which employees feel they would be seen as an outcast if they didn’t drink, with almost HALF (47 percent) saying they feel real pressure to keep up with the booze culture at work.

In fact, the extent to which work based “beer pressure” is impacting our lives was revealed in the study, with 32 percent of those polled saying there is a culture of excessive drinking at their workplace.

A further 43 percent claim they actively avoid “work dos” because they know the pressure to overindulge with booze will be too much to withstand.

But one in ten Brits have stopped drinking solely to improve their work performance, and seven percent because it was having a negative impact on their ability to do their job.

The study found that a staggering 59 percent of Brits felt they had a problematic relationship with alcohol, with four in ten having felt at times that they were out of control in relation to their drinking.

Yet the pressure to drink is huge, with 43 percent of the 2,000 working Brits polled claiming they had been coerced into drinking booze on a night out by friends and colleagues, despite not wanting to indulge.

And 70 percent of people who have tried to give up booze admit they have been made to feel awkward by others if they say they are abstaining. Shockingly, the same number claim that this pressure has actually caused them to hit the bottle again.

Said Ruari Fairbairns of One Year, No Beer: “It goes without saying that the UK has a strong drinking culture and with that, peer pressure is equally strong and alive. It’s shocking that the nation’s doctors, managers and workers in big business are feeling immense pressure to drink alcohol because of the company culture. At One Year No Beer, we help companies introduce a culture change to help employees handle all occasions, whether it’s after work drinks with colleagues, or business meetings. There are always going to be obstacles when setting yourself the challenge of giving up alcohol, but it’s when you overcome these obstacles that it builds self worth, and that’s far more gratifying than having a drink.”

The average Brit thinks about giving up alcohol 25 times every year, yet only half (49 percent) have ever tried to quit.

The main reasons for going teetotal for Brits is because of worries it was affecting their health (26 percent), followed by wanting to see if they could go alcohol-free (23 percent).

One in five people tried to quit because they have had too many bad drinking experiences, and the same number because they felt they had started drinking too heavily.

And more than one in ten (13 percent) had not wanted their children to see them intoxicated.

The survey also revealed that one in ten Brits know they drink too much and yet feel completely unable to cut down. And a quarter of people (25 percent) say that they believe people in Britain drink too much.

Interestingly, the problem seems to be generational as 60 percent of 16-29-year-olds feel pressured into drinking by their work culture, compared to just 40 percent of 45-60-year-olds.

PROFESSIONS WHO FEEL THE MOST PRESSURE TO DRINK:

Doctors – 86 percent
Railway workers – 82 percent
IT workers – 81 percent
Musicians – 75 percent
Banker/ City workers – 69 percent
Scientist/ researchers – 65 percent
Actors – 64 percent
Pharmacists – 57 percent
Accountants – 52 percent
Designers – 51 percent

How to move through the menopause naturally – doctor tips

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BRITTLE NAILS? BLADDER WEAKNESS? BRAIN FOG? THESE ARE LESS COMMON SYMPTOMS OF THE MENOPAUSE HOW TO MOVE THROUGH THE MENOPAUSE NATURALLY

by Dr David Edwards, Trudy Hannington, Suzie Sawyer

FACTS & STATS

Did you know there are over 30 different symptoms that can be attributed to the menopause3 from common symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings to the more obscure including brittle nails, bladder weakness, brain fog and even changes in body odour? This can make it difficult for women to understand what’s attributable to the menopause and what’s not.

Three quarters of women in the UK say the menopause has caused them to change their lives and 51% say menopause has affected their sex lives. A staggering 42% of women also said that menopause symptoms were much worse than they had anticipated.

Research shows that women experience the menopause in many different ways and much is influenced by their personal, family and sociocultural background. While for some women the menopause symptoms seem never ending, there are many natural solutions on offer to women that can make a really positive difference and ease the many menopause woes.

GP, Dr David Edwards, Psychosexual Therapist, Trudy Hannington and Clinical Nutritionist, Suzie Sawyer share some of their tips, bust a few myths and provide some natural and effective answers to menopause challenges.

Dr David Evans

GP, Dr David Edwards and a specialist in male and female sexual dysfunction notes: “Prescribed hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a popular choice for women to help manage menopausal symptoms. However, there are many women who, either for medical reasons or personal choice, prefer not to take HRT. These women, or indeed those already taking HRT, may find it helpful to try the following lifestyle and supplementation tips. Most importantly, don’t suffer in silence and always consult your GP for a one to one consultation if you are at all concerned. Here are a few of my tips:

MOVE IT: Any exercise that stresses the bones such as skipping, can slow down the loss of bone density associated with the menopause. Brisk walking or aerobics release endorphins, the feel-good hormones in the body which can help alleviate low mood and anxiety, common feelings during the menopause years. Pilates and yoga6 are good for flexibility while pelvic floor exercises help protect against urinary incontinence as you age.

STAY COOL: Hot rooms can aggravate flushing so keep your house and bedroom temperature cool. Cutting back on caffeinated drinks and topping up with plenty of water may also help.

Try Herbal remedies – Traditional herbal medicines containing Black Cohosh and St John’s Wort have been clinically proven to help relieve common menopause symptoms. Some women find concentrating and copying with stressful situations particularly difficult during the menopause. Rhodiola rosea has been shown to help relieve symptoms of stress without causing sedation or a foggy brain. Make sure you choose one which carries the THR kite mark as this guarantees quality, safety and includes approved dosage information in-pack.

Psychosexual Therapist, Trudy Hannington

A leading Psychosexual Therapist, a former Chair of the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapy (COSRT) and committee member for the British society of Sexual Medicine, Trudy Hannington notes: “Female Sexual Dysfunction is a common problem that has been ignored and affects one in two women after the menopause. Most sexual problems have more than one cause. I regularly see women going through the menopause who start to experience sexual and relationship problems such as low sex drive, arousal problems and, in many cases, feelings of no longer being attractive or desirable to their partner. A few tips I have include:

Book a ‘Date Night’. Use the time to get know each other again and discuss what makes you both feel good. Switch off phones and other electronic devices so that you can give each other your full attention.

Be touchy. Improving foreplay and taking time with sensual massage can help improve communication. Kissing, touching and exploring each other’s bodies can help to boost libido.

Clinical Nutritionist, Suzie Sawyer

Clinical Nutritionist, Suzie Sawyer adds: “Diet forms the cornerstone of health. And this becomes even more important during the menopause when hormones are fluctuating. The right nutrition can have a big impact on hormonal health by nourishing and helping control and eliminate unpleasant menopausal symptoms. Here are a few of my tips to help ease some of those menopause woes:

Add soy products, rich in isoflavones to your diet. There is much research to suggest that eating whole soya foods rich in Japanese and Chinese cultures can have a positive effect on menopausal symptoms. However, products need to be made from whole soya rather than soya isolate or soya protein isolate to gain benefit from the isoflavones. Other isoflavone-rich foods include chickpeas, lentils and kidney beans.

Increase fibre intake. There are two types of fibre; insoluble found in wholegrains and vegetables which aid good bowel movements, and soluble found in oats, beans and fruit. Both are essential in the diet and especially to help with detoxifying ‘old’ oestrogens. Whilst it’s the lack of oestrogen causing menopausal symptoms, the body needs to effectively excrete those it’s utilised; eating a fibre-rich diet is the key

Protect your bones. As oestrogen levels fall, women are at risk of osteoporosis, therefore protecting your bones needs to be high on your nutritional plan. Interestingly, Public Health England recommends that everyone needs ten micrograms of vitamin D daily (our key bone-building vitamin) to help prevent vitamin D deficiency, particularly during the winter months. Taking a daily supplement is the best health insurance policy. Try Alive! Calcium with Vitamin D Soft Jells. Bones are also protected by eating isoflavones which naturally produce a metabolite with oestrogen-like activity called equol, so it’s a win-win situation!

Vitamin D11,12 and Magnesium also work together in maintaining bone health. Our skin produces most of the vitamin D we need when and if it’s exposed to sunlight, but you can also find it in oily fish, eggs and some fortified breakfast cereals. Magnesium, which aids the absorption of calcium, can be found in nuts, pulses and green, leafy vegetables. Try Alive! Ultra Women’s 50+ Wholefood Plus tablets.

Encourage production of the ‘happy hormone’! Depression is, unfortunately, a very common symptom of the menopause. The body makes serotonin, our happy hormone, from foods containing the amino acid tryptophan. The good news is that it’s widely available in a variety of foods including fish, wholegrains, soya, beans, eggs, bananas and oats, so make sure you’re eating some at every meal, if possible. Plus, if you’re having trouble sleeping, have a small tryptophan-rich snack before bedtime; serotonin also produces melatonin, our key sleep hormone.

PRODUCT RECOMMENDATIONS

Black Cohosh is found in MenoHerb Black Cohosh Menopause
Relief, a traditional herbal medicine used for the relief of menopause symptoms including hot flushes, night sweats and temporary changes in mood such as nervous irritability and restlessness, exclusively based upon long-standing use as a traditional remedy.

Available in Boots £10.20 for 30 one-a-day tablets.

MenoHerb is suitable for vegetarians and free from gluten, wheat, sugar and soya. Always read the label.

The unique combination of Black Cohosh and St John’s Wort can be found in MenoMood Menopause Mood Relief, a traditional herbal medicine used for the relief of menopause symptoms including hot flushes, night sweats, slightly low mood and mild anxiety, exclusively based upon long-standing use as a traditional remedy.

Available in Boots and Holland & Barrett and all good pharmacy and health food stores or visit www.menomood.co.uk . £16.99 for 30 one-a-day tablets.

MenoMood is suitable for vegetarians and free from gluten, wheat and soya. Always read the label.

MenoMood Menopause Mood Relief

Rhodiola rosea can be found in Vitano® Rhodiola tablets, a traditional herbal medicine used for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with stress, such as fatigue, exhaustion and mild anxiety, exclusively based upon long-standing use as a traditional remedy.

Available in Boots £6.99 for 16 two-a-day tablets.

Vitano® is suitable for vegetarians and vegans and is free from lactose, gluten, wheat, soya, corn and sugar. Always read the label.

ALIVE! Calcium with Vitamin D Soft Jells

Calcium, Vitamin D and Phosphorus for maintenance of normal bones, teeth and for normal growth and development of bone in children.
Contains a unique dried blend of 26 fruits and vegetables
Delicious strawberry natural fruit flavour: made with only natural fruit flavours
Available in Holland & Barrett £14.99 for 60 two-a-day soft jells.

Suitable for vegetarians and is free from gluten, soya, dairy, yeast, artificial flavours, colours and preservatives.

NEW ALIVE! Ultra Women’s 50+ Wholefood Plus
25 vitamins and minerals with adjusted levels to meet the needs of women over 50.
A unique dried blend of 26 whole fruits and vegetables
Daily greens blend of 14 botanicals.
A digestive enzyme blend including bromelain to help ease protein digestion
A cranberry concentrated extract for urinary tract health
Additional flax lignans with phytoestrogens for hormonal balance

Available in Holland & Barrett  £24.99 for 60 one-a-day tablets.

Suitable for vegetarians and is free from gluten, soya, dairy, yeast, artificial flavours, colours and preservatives.

Unhygienic and worn out toothbrushes are a thing of the past with Ordo

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A trip to the dentist can be dreaded for some, but we want you to be confident in your smile. With Ordo, you’ll be better informed and connected.

Ordo has a team of professionals who will share their top tips, passion, support and expertise with you.

And you will never be embarrassed by that worn out and unhygienic toothbrush ever again.

Find out more here

 

 

 

 

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines – last minute deals

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From Scandinavia, Greenland, the Scottish Islands to the exotic world of the Far East & India, Fred Olsen will have a last minute deal to suit your desires and your budget here

40% of home brands at House of Fraser

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Up to 40% off homeware – ends at midnight on 7 May 2018!

Great ape bowel bacteria reveals how the human microbiome has changed

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Scientists have discovered changes in the human microbiome when compared to those of our closest relatives, the Great Apes.

Scientists who examined the bacteria in chimpanzee and gorilla faeces discovered that they have seasonal changes in the type of intestinal flora brought about by the changes in their diet at different times of the year. Whereas humans are now able to source all kinds of food throughout the year which means that the intestinal flora stays the same.  According to scientists, who now place increasing emphasis  on the importance on the role  of gut bacteria in human health this could implications for our wellbeing.


The types and numbers of bacterial species that inhabit the human gut depend on what we eat.  And, as humans have changed their diet over time, the microbiome has followed suit, according to a recent study published in Nature Communications.

The Western diet, in particular, is wholly different to that of our ancestors just 100 years ago — let alone early humans who walked the earth millions of years ago.

The human digestive system, though it does have differences from our closest relatives — the other great apes — is relatively similar. And, when our species first split and went off on our own evolutionary path, our diets probably had a lot in common, too.This means that the bacteria types living in our gut were, at least initially, pretty similar to our hairier cousins. There are still similarities today, but, as our diet has shifted, so has our microbiome.What this huge change in our diet means for our microbiome and related health is a tricky question to answer.

Researchers at the Center for Infection and Immunity at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health in New York City, NY, investigated ape bowel waste. Specifically, they examined fecal samples from great apes living in the Sangha region of the Republic of Congo, collected by the Wildlife Conservation Society.

Their sampling was spread over three years, in order to give them an idea of how gut bacteria populations shifted seasonally.

The authors noted that, in chimpanzees and gorillas, the microbiome changed significantly with the seasons, along with their diet. In the hot, dry summer, for instance, fruits are their primary food source, whereas for the rest of the year, their diet is mostly fibrous leaves and bark.

Brent L. Williams, Ph.D., an assistant professor of epidemiology, explains one of the primary changes they evidenced:  “Bacteria that help gorillas break down fibrous plants,” he says, “are replaced once a year by another group of bacteria that feed on the mucous layer in their gut during the months they are eating fruits.”

Interestingly, the changes mirrored those of the Hadza hunter-gatherer people from Tanzania, who similarly rely on seasonal food availability.

In contrast, as far as the average U.S. citizen’s microbiome is concerned, seasonal changes do not occur. We can access pretty much any food type we want at any point in the year.

The team noted other differences, too. According to first study author Allison L. Hicks, “While our human genomes share a great deal of similarity with those of our closest living relatives, our second genome (the microbiome) has some important distinctions, including reduced diversity and the absence of bacteria and archaea that appear to be important for fibre fermentation.” Do these differences matter to our health?

“The fact that our microbiomes are so different from our nearest living evolutionary relatives says something about how much we’ve changed our diets, consuming more protein and animal fat at the expense of fibre,” says Williams.

As mentioned earlier, during the fibre-poor summer months, the microbiome of the great ape is dominated by a strain that feeds on the gut’s mucous layer.”Many humans may be living in a constant state of fibre deficiency. Such a state may be promoting the growth of bacteria that degrade our protective mucous layer, which may have implications for intestinal inflammation, even colon cancer.”

As Hicks says, “Understanding how these lost microbes influence health and disease will be an important area for future studies.”

A positive outlook on life helps brain function in later life, new research reveals.

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Researchers have found that pensioners aged between 80 and 100 who have a positive outlook on life can enjoy better cognitive function that people in their fifties.
Medical experts were stunned when they carried out research on ‘super-agers’, who despite having many symptoms associated with dementia, seemed not to be affected by the condition.

In spite of the fact many of the super-agers had unhealthy habits including smoking and drinking, researchers found what they had in common was a positive attitude in life and an unusually high proportion of the rare brain called called the von Economo neuron.

Professor Emily Rogalski, of the Northwestern University in Chicago, examined the brains of 10 super-agers who underwent examination while they were alive and after they had died. They were part of a group of 74 super-agers followed by the research.
Rogalski said in a paper she is presenting to the American Association for the Advancement of Science she is presenting today: “The findings suggest that super-agers have unique personality profiles.Excellent memory capacity is biologically possible in late life and can be maintained for years even when there is significant neuropathologic burden.'”

Her research found that 71 per cent of super-agers smoked and 83 per cent drank alcohol regularly. However Rogalski estimated that less than five per cent of the population are super-agers.

The von Economo neurons which were present in super-agers are only found in the brains of large mammals and are believed to offer highspeed connections between different regions within the brain. They are known to develop in the late stages of pregnancy and early childhood and could be down to luck.

Rogalski’s study could provide a breakthrough in dementia research. In contrast to much of the dementia research carried out to date, it does not focus on trying to reverse the spread of amyloid and tau, deformed proteins that form lumps in the brains of people with dementia.

 

Celebrity Crimper Neil Moodie answers your questions about thinning hair

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Image result for woman playing with Celebrity hairstylist and Viviscal Ambassador Neil Moodie, who has styled the likes of Kate Moss and Cara Delevingne, answers some of the most frequently asked questions stylists get asked about thinning hair.

Why can hair thin with age?

Neil: Hair is made up of many protein strands. The life span of a hair strand is anything between 2 to 7 years. Your genes determine a lot about how much hair we have on our heads and bodies.

As we age, hair strands become smaller and lose their pigment, some stands just don’t grow anymore and so our hair becomes thinner. Each strand of hair you have sits in a tiny cavity called a follicle. When the hair follicle shrinks over time this results in shorter and finer hair. Eventually the follicle doesn’t grow new hair. This doesn’t mean the follicle isn’t live though which suggests that it is still possible to grow new hair.

What’s the best way to cut thin hair?

Neil: In general if you have finer hair, don’t grow it long. The longer it gets, the weaker the hair gets and so it can tend to look lank and straggly on the ends. There’s nothing worse than long hair that doesn’t look healthy. I would be inclined to say to people with fine or thin hair to keep it shorter in length.

For those that have super thin hair you want to get layers in to get a bit more height and volume in the hair as opposed to the hair being all one length. I wouldn’t recommend really short layers because that can highlight the fineness of the hair. Personally I would recommend hair to be bob length or shorter and then to have some layers – the length of the layers would depend on what your hair is like. Ask your hair stylist – they’ll know best.

How can I style thin hair to make it look thicker?

Neil: Styling wise it really depends on what products you use and how you style it. Getting root lift will make hair look thicker rather than having it lying flat against the head. To get root lift that lasts using the correct tools and styling products is essential. There’s a lot of thickening hair products around and plenty to choose from. The Windle & Moodie Fortifying Spray is great for hair that’s not super thin but needs a bit of a boost as it’s a lighter thickening spray which has a little bit of hold. I recommend using Windle and Moodie Foundation Spray that acts as a detangler first as this will help distribute the thickening spray through the hair more evenly.

Is colouring bad for thin hair?

Neil: There is often the misconception that colouring is bad for your hair however I think that colouring is so sophisticated now that if it’s done right then I don’t think it is bad for your hair. Colour is good for making each individual hair shaft swell and make it feel a bit thicker. Having said that you have to be careful with colour as the finer the hair, the more delicate it is. If you want to start colouring your hair it’s good to start with a healthy base. I wouldn’t recommend starting colouring your hair when it’s already damaged as this is not going to help matters. Take Viviscal supplements for a few months before you plan to colour it to give your hair a boost and get it back to a healthy state.

One of Elixir’s favourite products – on discount now at House of Fraser!

In general colouring your hair these days is a lot better for your hair than it used to be however I’m not a fan of home colouring. My concern is that people don’t know what they’re doing and might for example put blonde on top of a dark colour not realising that this won’t work. It is a science. There are chemicals involved and colourists are rigorously trained to use those chemicals. Someone who’s worried about the condition of their hair is best off to go into a salon and get some professional advice to guide them in the right direction.

What products do you recommend for thinning hair?

Neil: The first thing I recommend to the models I work with is Viviscal, which contains biotin, zinc, a marine-based complex that promotes hair growth. This will get the nutrients working from the inside out and that’s the most important thing for getting the hair back on track. I always notice much healthier hair growth after women take Viviscal and I often see a slight increase in speed of hair growth, and reduction in shedding. If your hair’s really thin, try the Windle & Moodie Thickening Cream, which is a more heavy duty cream to make thinner hair feel fuller. Clients get excited when I use the product on them as the results are so good. I used it on a model the other day and she said that it made her feel like she had extensions in.

Neil is bla bla

A warm welcome, great food and gossip – a perfect lunch at Mr Hanbury’s Mason Arms

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Whether its accommodation or food I have discovered there is nothing like a quintessential English pub – and by that, I mean a pub that manages to balance local traditions of real ales but is also passionate about delivering a great dining experience and value-for-money.

One such place is the Mason’s Arms in Oxfordshire which also has rooms and is part of an embryonic chain of innovative pub restaurants. It was fairly easy to find in the middle of the countryside at least with a satnav. After turning off the M40 and taking the A40 towards Oxford I skirt round the city and head towards Gloucester. About 10 miles on I take a left down a lane leading to the village of South Leigh, just south of Witney and I soon see the thatched roof of the 16th century limestone inn called Mr Hanbury’s Mason Arms peeping over a wall.

Mr Hambury’s main restaurant

The car park looks busy even around 2ish on a weekday so I take this as a good sign. I am a little late for my reservation (accident on M40) so they have put me on a lovely little table in the bar and given me a very warm welcome nevertheless. My table is outside the main restaurant but I am glad as there are some very rowdy fellows in there downing port. And it seems I am in pole position to hear the pub gossip, not far from the huge roaring fire – lovely and comforting on this cold wintry day.

So, glass of Rioja in hand I chose my food from the menu: a starter of smoked ham hock terrine, black pudding, pickles and garden herbs (£8); a main course of 32-day aged rump steak, roasted onion and bone marrow sauce, triple cooked chips (£25) and the irresistible sounding Blood Orange Cheesecake (£7) and to drink mineral water. There is also a Garden Menu which I suppose counts as the menu du jour with 2 courses for £20 or 3 courses for £25

I note the very large pink neon sign over the fireplace that reads “What Did I Do Last Night?”. Hmm I think that is a bit unusual in a village pub! but apparently its part of the owners’ desire to make their offering a little bit different – decadent I suppose!

A neon reminder to behave yourself …or not!

With nothing else to do while waiting for my meal I sit and take in my surroundings. At the next table is an elderly and clearly well-heeled American man – kitted out English gent style in an expensive Saville Row tweedy country jacket and silk socks – who is conversing with a local. Although they are two tables away I easily overhear the conversation. The American is, he says, over on a regular jaunt to the Cotswolds and reveals that he frequently dines with “The Duke” and his wife while he is in the area. I don’t know any Duke’s personally but I do know there is only one of note around these parts and that’s the Duke of Marlborough of Blenheim Palace fame – Jamie Blandford as was. Enough said and my starter arrives. The American leaves – his chauffeur is outside luckily as he has been trying out the Malts and my first course arrives.

The food at The Mason’s Arms is a proverbial feast for the eyes. Beautifully presented with herbs from the kitchen garden, meat sourced locally etc. My starter did not disappoint although I could not get visability o the black pudding but I am sure it was there! The main of rump was perfectly medium done and the flavour not spoiled by the burnt taint of a flame grill as so many steaks are these days. The piste de resistance though was the desert. This is not something I would usually order as I am usually too full but my love of Sicilian blood oranges got the better of me…. these oranges develop their distinct colour/flavour as a result of the change of temperatures which can drop to freezing on the slopes around the volcano of Mount Etna even in summer.

The eatery and hotel in East Leigh is the fourth venture for owners Justin and Charlotte Salisbury who launched their brand Artist Residence in 2008 in rather more racy places such as Brighton, Penzance and London’s Pimlico with another planned for Bristol this year.

The reason the food is so good at the Mason’s is down to chef Leon Smith who has a Michelin-starred background including working for Tom Aikens and Wild Honey in London and the Pony & Trap in Bristol. He is passionate about using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Many of the vegetables in particular come from the pub’s kitchen garden

Leon pictured left in the organic garden at Mr Hanbury’s

All in all, it was a perfect lunch with a warm welcome, great food and some entertainment for a lone but not lonely eater. Sadly, I was not able to stay as all the bedrooms were booked!

Fact Box

Mason’s Arms, Station Road, South Leigh, Oxfordshire OX29 6XN

T: 01993 656238

www.hanburysmasonarms.co.uk

Rooms: Doubles from £130, B&B

Wifi: free

Parking: on site car park, free of charge

Pets: £20 charge per dog, per night. Dog bowl and treats included

Get a fresh look in 2018 – shop the Benefit cosmetics sale

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Benefit is known for creating innovative products that work with the latest trends and fashion and not just for younger age ranges.

A subtle change to your make up – such as foundation colour, lipstick and eyebrow definition can take whittle away the years and give you a refreshing new look.

Why not try something new especially since many products are now 50% off!

Get gorgeous for less with up to 50% off!

At last Benefit has launched is new volumising brow gel in the UK – Gimme Brow – our absolute favourite product

We love these products as they give you great natural looking brows – Gimme Brow is £23.50

How to repair thin & skimpy eyebrows – tips from Benefit Cosmetics

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This video from Benefit shows you how to get eyebrows with volume – without looking scary.

We have sourced discounts on two of the products at House of Fraser in the images below which are actually cheaper.  Unfortunately the Gimme Brow product is not available here in the UK until the New Year – so not long to wait!!

Click here to find out more on Benefit’s website

Benefit Goof Proof Pencil is available at House of Fraser

Benefit BrowVOL Conditioning Primer – now available at House of Fraser

 

Explore Prague’s famous Christmas Market – from only €115 for two

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Prague’s Christmas markets are internationally renowned for their festive atmosphere, food and drink and sheer range of products. What better way to celebrate the festive season than perusing the stalls and picking up some unique gifts with a glass of mulled wine in hand? Stay with at the luxury Corinthia Hotel & Spa and enjoy transport to the markets, plus bed and breakfast in the beautiful Corinthia Prague from just €115

Prague has many river restaurants with enchanting views

PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • Accommodation in a room of your choice (up to 2 guests)
  • Buffet Breakfast
  • Daily tickets for Prague’s transport system (1 per person/night of stay)
  • Map of Prague’s Christmas markets
  • Typical Czech Vánočka bread
  • Unlimited access to the Apollo Day Spa

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

  • Package is bookable until 24/12/2017
  • Package is valid for stays 1/12/2017 to 28/12/2017 inclusive
  • Offer is subject to availability and blackout dates may apply
  • Minimum 2 nights stay restriction applies
  • Reservations must be made at least 3 days prior to arrival
  • Reservations can be cancelled free of charge up to 3 days prior to arrival
  • Reservations must be guaranteed by a credit card at the time of booking

To find out more click here