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IMPROVING YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING WITH BREATH

Editorial Team
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IMPROVING YOUR HEALTH AND WELLBEING WITH BREATH

Take a deep breath in, letting it flow deep down into your belly. Now let it out. We bet you’re feeling a little more relaxed already. Breathing exercises (an active relaxation technique) are one of the most simple and effective ways to relax and look after your health and wellbeing.  You can do them standing up, sitting down, lying on your bed…the possibilities are endless.

Yet it seems that, still, so many are unaware of the power of breathing. In fact, many of us take breathing for granted. It often takes a health emergency or poor air quality for us to appreciate this basic yet extremely important ability. 

Meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques are all based on controlling and focusing our breathing, and research has shown that there are myriad benefits to these types of relaxation techniques, not only in calming the body and mind, but also in strengthening the respiratory system.

Yep, we’d go as far as to say that conscious breathing can have a hugely positive influence on your life. Read on to discover more about improving your health and wellbeing with breath.

THE BENEFITS OF CONSCIOUS BREATHING

For thousands of years now, meditation practitioners have known the benefits of conscious breathing. Now, others are waking up to these benefits conscious breathing:

  • It can lower your heart rate.
  • It can help to reduce stress levels in the body.
  • It can lower blood pressure.
  • It may reduce symptoms of depression.
  • It could help you to manage chronic pain.
  • It can help your body react better to fatigue or stress.

SOME SIMPLE BREATHING TECHNIQUES

Practitioners of deep breathing, mindful breathing and conscious breathing techniques have several different types of method at their disposal, each of which is intended to help with a specific health or wellbeing issue, as well as contributing to an overall sense of strength and calm.

  1. Mantra breathing – a mantra is a word or phrase that you repeat to yourself. Research has shown that this can help with focus. As you repeat the word in your head, you will find yourself becoming more relaxed and less stressed. 
  2. Mindful breathing –With mindful breathing, you do not need to change how you breathe, you simply need to focus on your breathing. Mindful breathing can help you to feel more relaxed, as you focus on how the air moves in and out of your lungs. It is a type of calming meditation.
  3. Nose breathing – as you breathe, close off one nostril and take air in slowly through the open one. You then change to the other nostril. Keep repeating this process until your body starts to relax. This technique has been proven to help reduce anxiety and agitation. Not only that but nose breathing has also been shown to increase performance, too.
  4. Belly breathing – this is one of the easiest techniques to master. Simply lie down on the floor (or on your bed), place your hands on your stomach, and breathe in through your nose. As you breathe out, you contract the stomach muscles and push the air out of your lungs.

WHEN AND HOW SHOULD YOU PRACTICE BREATHING TECHNIQUES?

It is a good idea to practice breathing techniques multiple times a day. Practicing them regularly will help to pump oxygen to your heart and brain and it will regulate stress levels. Most breathing techniques do not require any equipment at all, and they can be completed anywhere, meaning you can do them while travelling to work, or whilst watching tv at night. 

Lots of people are feeling the overwhelming impact that lockdown has had on our physical and mental health and many of us are looking for ways to overcome these problems. However, improving your health and wellbeing may be easier than you would think.

Research has shown that we can improve our health and wellbeing with breath. When you become conscious of how to unlock the power of your breath through straightforward exercises, you will be able to use it as a tool that you can apply anywhere as a piece of your health and wellbeing armory. If you would like to give it a try, then why not follow our advice above.

4 PIECES OF TECH BUILT FOR EXTREME SPORTS

Editorial Team
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4 PIECES OF TECH BUILT FOR EXTREME SPORTS

Maybe it’s just us, but after doing nothing for what seems like forever, we are after an adventure, something extreme. Perhaps it’s the rush of adrenaline we’re longing for or the sense of altogether legal thrills that come with extreme sport. 

Or, maybe it’s because we want to break some boundaries after being controlled for so long, perhaps meeting some new people along the way, enjoying a beer over some common ground. 

And it seems like we’re not alone. According to a recent study by Research Dive, the growth of adventure sports is set to surge in the next few years. And that’s not all; the way we’re set to enjoy extreme sports looks likely to evolve. As Globe Newswire reports, “Utilization of various new forms of technology such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, IoT and others has been attracting more customers.”

As you probably know by now (you’re reading this on the toilet, right?), technology is fully integrated into all aspects of our lives, and this is certainly true for the extreme sports scene. Each year, new gadgets flood the market, designed to improve the overall experience of the activity, as well as booting sports performance, analysis and safety.

Whether you’re skydiving, diving, base jumping, bump jumping, backcountry skiing, snowboarding, gliding, mountain biking, surfing or even windsurfing, here are 4 pieces of tech built for extreme sports 

WEARABLE POV CAMERAS

If you’re looking to relive those thrill-filled moments long after the adrenaline has returned to normal levels, then you’ll need a device to capture them. If you don’t, then alongside the other risks that go hand in hand with extreme sports, you also risk missing out on the memories.

That’s if you haven’t invested in a decent POV camera to enhance your extreme sports experience, that is.

Wearable cameras are ideal for catching a true point-of-view (POV) in-the-moment reel of what you’re doing. Wearable cameras are also an invaluable tool in tracking and analysing your performance as an extreme sports athlete, providing feedback on form and technique for future reference.   

Of course, you can buy pretty cheap cameras for around £50, but you do get what you pay for – in other words, you risk low quality footage. If you’re planning to use your camera in, near, or around water, then make sure it’s waterproof. It’s also a good idea to find a camera that has image stabilisation. 

GoPro is of course at the forefront of wearable camera technology, though there are other, cheaper contenders entering the market if you’re looking for a more affordable option. Some of the most affordable alternatives on the market include the Akaso V50 Pro, OCLU Action Camera, and the Campark ACT74 Action Camera.

Read: 5 holidays IDEAL for risk takers

DRONES

Another way of recording accurate, exhilarating footage – both of your extreme sports escapades and as a sport in itself – is through drones. These are fantastic for capturing shots from a dizzying, gravity defying height and would be ideally suited to a bird’s eye perspective of skydives, paragliding, bungee jumping and more.

The cost of beginner’s drones starts at under £100, with two of the most highly regarded within the budget market being the Ryze Tello and the Holy Stone HS100 GPS FPV.

Read: 4 ideal tips for buying a drone 

SMART WATCHES

One of the most common wearable technologies of the present day is the smartwatch. Far exceeding the functions of the basic pedometer and heart rate displaying gadgets worn by the general public, however, are smartwatches geared specifically towards all types of extreme sports.

Backcountry skiers and other outdoor enthusiasts can benefit from solar-powered smart watches, such as those designed by tech giant Garmin.

For divers who like to keep meticulous track of their diving environment (something we should all be doing in the name of both safety and curiosity), a smart dive watch is an absolute necessity. For deep sea diving, be sure to get a watch that can withstand significant pressure due to the depth of the water and a rotating bezel which can keep track of how much oxygen you have left in the tank. 

Alternatively, for mountain runners and cyclists to gain a better understanding of the terrain they are competing in, as well as barometric altimeters, extreme sports-friendly smartwatches are a must buy, too.

Read: 6 IDEAL scuba diving accessory must haves

SMART HELMETS

Essential health and safety gear for any extreme sports helmets have evolved to include technology, too. Smart helmets now feature Bluetooth for media and call use, allowing wearers to communicate safely whilst on the road or piste.

Helmet cameras have become increasingly popular recently; people love to have a look at their ride and review all that they’ve seen – or rather, missed, due to the high speeds they reach.

Other smart helmet producers have continued innovating, and have developed tech features such as crash detection, live tracking and safety beacons to further the protection of users.

Skiers, snowboarders and mountain bikers should look out for MIPS helmet technology; that is, multi-directional impact protection system tech. This tech was created in 2001 and has been constantly developed using medical technology and research over the past 20 years to produce the safest head and neck protection within a helmet on the market.

So, you have the gear, now what?

Well, with these top three pieces of tech built for extreme sports, it’s time to put them to the test. Check out Piste Pro for maps, piste guides and snow forecasts to help plan your next adventure.

5 SMART TACTICS FOR SAVING UP MONEY STRATEGICALLY

Editorial Team
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5 SMART TACTICS FOR SAVING UP MONEY STRATEGICALLY

Whether it’s a new car, a holiday or even a property purchase, if you’re saving up for something special, it’s certainly useful to have a strategy in place. The financial experts certainly agree, extolling the virtues of precision planning when trying to get on top of your finances.

For better or for worse, saving money and running a manageable budget is one of the main markers of adulthood and an indicator of a stable, sensible outlook. With such a budget in place, those bigger purchases feel less daunting.

Let’s tackle this thing together; here are 5 smart tactics for saving up money strategically.

CONSIDER HIDDEN COSTS CAREFULLY

The item you’re saving up for, more often than not, won’t simply come at face value.

Before you start thinking about how to achieve your financial goals, find out exactly what you’re saving up for. When you’re planning a holiday, for example, don’t simply factor in the cost of flights and accommodation. Consider the extra funds you’ll spend too, such as new clothes for your trip, activities and excursions while you’re there, and money to eat out. If it’s a car you’re after, then parking spaces, petrol and insurance should all take precedent.

Conversely, don’t rely on assumptions when it comes to how expensive you think things are. Check online before you pull out your credit card and you’ll be surprised at the deals and offers that are available. By finding the cheapest price, you’ll have an accurate idea of exactly how much you need to save.

SET MINI TARGETS

Some financial goals will take longer to achieve than others; that’s the nature of life and the oppressive economic system we live under. If you’re saving up to purchase a property or host a wedding, for example, it might take years before you reach your ultimate objective. It’s natural for your motivation to wane over time – and for your spending to oscillate between thrifty and frivolous in between – but setting mini targets will help you to keep on track. 

Every time you hit a new target, give yourself a small reward; in doing so, you’ll have a regular incentive to work towards it. You don’t need to blow your budget in order to do this but be sure to recognise the hard work you’re putting in and reward yourself accordingly. 

Many people swear by a simplified, monthly 10% savings rate as a general ballpark figure to aim for. You can set up a monthly direct debit from your primary bank account into a savings app, or take advantage of one of the many savings apps currently out there which can automate this process further for you.

USE A DEDICATED SAVING APP

Speaking of which…

You can use a pencil and piece of paper to create a workable budget, sure, and transfer that 10% out of your account as and when you see fit, but digital solutions are often a much more efficient way to manage your budget and savings.

With the right app, for example, you can create a viable budget and automatically link your spending to your profile to minimise the amount of work required to keep on top of your finances. 

Budgeting apps are a great way to stay in control of your spending and get a deeper insight into your money management skills. As well as helping you to cleverly put money away for your next big purchase, they can also help you to enhance your saving skills and make savvier financial decisions. 

Some of the best budgeting and saving apps currently on the market include Money Dashboard, Emma, Yolt, Bean and Plum.

GIVE YOUR EXPENDITURE AN AUDIT

If you want to increase the amount you’re setting aside every month, take another look at your budget and see whether there is any unnecessary expenditure you can cut. If you have active subscriptions or memberships that you no longer use, for example, cancelling them is an easy way to reduce your budget and increase the amount you’re able to save. 

In fact, in March 2021, it was estimated that Brits had wasted £300 million on unused subscriptions and hobbies in the previous year.

Similarly, switching to a new cell phone or utility provider can save you a surprising amount while scouring the market for the cheapest insurance is another way to cut costs. You don’t have to give up all your luxuries in order to increase your savings, especially when you cut costs that you won’t even notice. 

PAY DOWN YOUR DEBTS FIRST

Ouch. If you’re trying to save up for something, paying off your credit card or personal loan may not feel like your top priority. In fact, it’s an aspect of your outgoings usually confined to the footer. 

However, paying down your debts is one of the best ways to save money and could substantially contribute to your bank balance in the long term. Paying interest on loans and credit cards is a simple waste of money, and the faster you pay off your debts, the less interest you pay. This will also help you to establish a better credit rating, which, in the long run, contributes to a more stable, sensible state of finances for many years to come.

Some experts recommend using the ‘snowball method’, a strategy popularised by financial expert Dave Ramsey, to pay down your debts most efficiently. Check out Investopedia’s guide to the debt snowball method (as well as the debt avalanche method) for a detailed breakdown of what this tactic entails.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Learning how to manage our money is an important life skill, but it’s not one that we’re taught in school. By remaining open to new budgeting techniques and finding out how to consolidate your expenses, you’ll be surprised at how easily and quickly you can boost your savings and reach your financial goals.

TREND ALERT: 7 REASONS TO INVEST IN AN EXTENDABLE DINING TABLE TODAY

Editorial Team
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TREND ALERT: 7 REASONS TO INVEST IN AN EXTENDABLE DINING TABLE TODAY

A piece of furniture that should not be underestimated, here at IDEAL, the dining table is one of the most important pieces of furniture in the home. Sitting down to a home cooked meal and chewing the fat nourishes both our minds and our bellies, make no mistake. 

The American food writer Micheal Pollen even goes as far as suggesting that what’s for dinner, where you eat and who eats it with you could determine our survival as a species. Food for thought, indeed.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, we’ve cooked and eaten more meals at home than ever before. For many, the dining table has functioned not only as a space where we eat, but also as a place to work, teach and more. It’s also served as a place to take refuge and connect with loved ones.

However, since smaller living has become the norm, right alongside multifunctional rooms and flex spaces, it’s become increasingly difficult to incorporate large and cumbersome dining tables into our homes. 

Enter the extendable dining table, ideal for small and large homes alike. If you’re thinking about buying a piece of furniture soon, then here’s 7 reasons to invest in an extendable dining table today.

CREATES FLUID, FLEXIBLE SPACES 

If the last year has taught us anything, it’s that space in our home is sacred. As more people begin to work from home, it’s become a logistical nightmare to find the space to not only set up a fully functional home office but still have a designated area for kids to do their homework, an area to embark on a new project or simply to finish that 5000 piece family puzzle.

Moreover, for many of us, a dedicated dining room isn’t something that our homes automatically come equipped with. 

As such, we’ve had to become more economical with the square footage in our home than ever before. That’s where the extendable dining table come in; it’s ideal for creating a fluid, flexible space.

This means that your table doesn’t have to be exclusively used for dining, instead easily becoming a hallway console, or in some cases, a coffee table. What’s more, having such an item enables you to go from desk to dinner party in seconds. Extendable tables can perfectly complement occasional outdoor living spaces, too.

IT’S GOOD FOR OUR BELLIES 

We’re all guilty of sitting in front of the TV to eat our dinners one (or several) too many times a week. However, studies suggest that sitting around the dinner table is good for your health as it not only improves family relationships, but it can help you eat healthier, too.  

For those homes low on space, eating in front of the tele or scrolling through your phone while dining feels like the default setting. An extendable dining table can help you reframe your meal time as a special part of the day which is worth of its status as a distraction-free zone. 

Read: 6 IDEAL ways to elevate your home dining experience

SAVE MONEY ON MEALS OUT 

As Vox points out,“The shift towards rentals and apartments over buying spacious single-family homes means very few millennials have the physical space for a 12-person reclaimed wood dining table, or room for a dinner table at all.” 

That statement certainly rings true, here. We’ve all been to our friends’ homes and uncomfortably eaten dinner off our laps. balancing a plate on our knees while juggling a drink and cutlery, fearful of the inevitable wine spillages that come with a lack of home dining space. Or, at other times, we’ve opted to go out to a restaurant instead, spending too much just to enjoy a good meal with good friends in a more convivial setting. 

But in the future, it’s likely we’ll be socialising more at home. As reported by Ahdb, “Going forward, 39% claim they are more likely to see friends and family at home in the garden once restrictions have eased and 46% are more likely to host social events/parties (Two Ears One Mouth, April 2021)”. 

The investment in an extendable dining table might actually lead to you saving money on all those meals out.

GREAT FOR IMPROMPTU DINNER PARTIES 

Even before the pandemic started, staying in-in and having a dinner party was becoming increasingly popular. In recent years, we’ve also seen the rise of homeowners hiring a chef to cook a restaurant-worthy meal in the comfort of their own home. 

Since the pandemic, we’ve also seen a huge growth in convenient dinner party options, where you can buy fancy canapes and dinner party friendly dishes from every supermarket. Restaurants have adapted to the changing needs of diners during the pandemic, too, and got creative, making restaurant dine-in experiences for the home. If you live in London, for instance, you can eat fine dining food from restaurants in Leeds and vice versa, all without having to travel. 

Enter, again, the ever-useful extendable dinner party, where you can hold an impromptu dinner party with friends, and not even have to worry about the washing up should you choose to hire a chef to do the cooking. 

CHANGES TO MEET YOUR NEEDS AND WANTS 

There comes a certain time in life when you’d much rather stay at home. When you have kids, jobs, and a gaggle of friends who’d prefer to spend an evening having dinner and playing games than going to the club, it’s important your domestic space is equipped to handle these changing desires.  

Indeed, very little stays the same in life. An extendable dining table can morph to meet your increasing family or accommodate a larger group of people when you need a little extra elbow room around the table.  

Extendable tables are ideal when it comes to finally getting a piece of that adult furniture which your household needs (Christmas is on you this year). 

SO MANY STYLES 

As the New York Times writes “The best dining table for you will be one that works for your budget, is solidly constructed, fits in your space and has a style you’ll love for years’’. We couldn’t agree more.

There are some core factors you should consider when choosing a good one. Thanks to an increased propensity in the industry for functional design, it’s never been easier to find an extendable table that fits your space, budget and style. 

Even if you stray away from on-trend styles or have a more classic predilection, there will be something for you. Farmhouse extendable dining tables are hugely sought after for their heavy form and clean lines, but regularly don’t fit inside smaller spaces— until you start to consider extendable versions, that is. This goes for industrial style tables, too, as well as more vintage looks. 

All in all, extendable dining tables offer flexibility and choice when it comes to choosing a style which fits the overall aesthetic of your home.

Now you’re convinced about the merits of extendable dining tables, might we assume that there’s room for us at your next dinner party. We’ll await our invite in the post.

PLANNING TO VISIT THE PEAK DISTRICT THIS SUMMER? HERE’S HOW TO PREPARE

Editorial Team
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PLANNING TO VISIT THE PEAK DISTRICT THIS SUMMER? HERE’S HOW TO PREPARE

The Peak District is a national park in central England that encompasses approximately 550 square miles of expansive landscapes and breathtaking scenery. Here, visitors can find a combination of rugged moorland, gently rolling meadows, and verdant dales and hills – the ‘peaks’ – the highest of which is Kinder Scout.

The Peak District is, in short (actually, it’s very tall), a wonderful place to explore.

Before we do explore, a couple of caveats; people already in the UK are currently allowed to visit the Peak District, though restrictions on the number of people staying in rented accommodation and attending indoor areas such as visitor centres do still apply. Right now, in England, hotels, hostels, and Airbnb rentals are all open, though there is a six person (or two households) maximum. The same limit on numbers applies to those staying in private homes, incidentally. Check out the government’s latest guidelines here, as they are likely to change in the coming days.

If you’re visiting from outside the UK, then the rules vary concerning the length of quarantine required and the number of negative COVID tests you have to provide, depending on whether the country of origin is on the green, amber or red list. Again, check the government’s latest rules regarding this here.

With those disclaimers dispensed with, let’s explore this iconic British destination more deeply. If you’re planning to visit the Peak District this summer, here’s how to prepare.

WHAT IS THE PEAK DISTRICT?

For the benefit of the uninitiated, the Peak District is a national park in England, made up of the limestone moorland of Derbyshire and the Torrs and gritstone moorlands of Cheshire. It is famous for its upland scenery, especially its limestone crags and rock formations, which are also found in the French Alps, the Southern Fells of the Lake District, and the Scottish Highlands. 

WALKS

The Peak District is something of a national treasure, as it is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes and walks in Britain. There is so much to do here that you will need to plan out an itinerary before you arrive. With more than 200 miles of walking and many hills, the Peak District is a walker’s dream. 

Perhaps the most famous and well trodden is the Pennine Way, which runs over 650 miles from Scotland to the Midlands. 

The Pennine Way is renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage and is the second most popular long-distance walk in the UK, with around 110,000 people taking part every year. Many people use the quaint village of Edale as a starting off point to walk the Pennine way (a 268-mile trek that takes most hikers up to 19 days) but if you’re looking for a more relaxed walk, you could try the Edale Low Level Circular Walk, which will take you on a picturesque, steady route.

Alternatively, the walk from Edale to Hollins Cross takes you off in a different direction to the Edale walks, and here’s some good news after all that hard work; this is an easy walk along a public footpath, suitable for seasoned hikers and newbies alike. The path takes you up to the Hollins Cross memorial, from which you get a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape. 

Another popular walking route is the Dales Way, which takes you through the beautiful valleys of north Derbyshire. Bakewell in the south leads to Castleton in the Peak District in the north along the Peak District Trail. It then cuts northeast through the picturesque valley of the River Wye, crosses the stunning summit of Kinder Scout, and finishes at the Peak District National Park Centre at Ashford-in-the-Water. 

SOME OTHER PLACES OF INTEREST IN THE PEAK DISTRICT

The Peak District is home to plenty of places of interest, some rural and natural, and some manmade. Here’s a selection of our favourites…

  • Chatsworth House: If you are interested in stately homes, this should definitely be on your list. Completed in 1708, it is a masterpiece of English opulence, and is open to the public during the summer months. Right now, COVID-19 restrictions do apply here.
  • Mam Tor: There are well over 100 Northumberland hills called Mam Tor, but only one is an actual peak. Mam Tor, known as the ‘mother hill’, is an isolated hill with a pyramid-shaped summit rising to a rocky prominence of over 1,000 feet. The whole of the summit is covered in heather moorland, or common heather, and the summit cairn is an interesting and distinctive landmark.
  • Kinder Scout: A stunningly desolate moorland plateau. The name is said to be pre-English in origin, and this gorgeous location feels as ancient as its namesake.
  • Heights of Abraham: Named after a supposed resemblance to a similarly named location in Canada where the British officer, General Wolfe, died in battle.

THINK ABOUT ACCOMMODATION

Accommodation options in the Peak District are, generally, traditional and fairly rural in terms of their location and amenities. You won’t find many 5 star, all inclusive affairs here, but rather, quaint cottages, B&Bs and guesthouses giving a gentle glimpse into a slower pace of British life. 

Alternatively, and with so many hotels booked up well in advance due to increased demand for staycations, you could take advantage of the numerous campsites and camping spots found in the Peaks and set up a tent or park up a caravan, instead.

One option could be to get car tent, set it up on your vehicle and camp out where you park. This isn’t as impromptu as it sounds, however, and you will need to either book in with the camping site or caravan park in advance, or gain permission from the landowner.

The Peak District’s official tourism page has an extensive list of campervan and caravan parks – do check it out.

This is a fabulous way to get immersed in the natural beauty of the place, of which there is an abundance. However, you must make sure that you dispose of all waste properly and disturb the local wildlife. While it may not seem as wild as some other locations due to its proximity to local villages and towns, it does have its own unique nature and sensitive ecosystems.

HOW TO GET THERE

For international visitors, you’ll likely arrive at Manchester airport. From here, there are extensive rail networks from Manchester Piccadilly that link up with Edale in Derbyshire or Sheffield. After the latter, you can head to Hope train station for access to the Peaks. Both are excellent starting points for your trip. If you’re coming from London via train, then Euston to Manchester Piccadilly takes just two hours.

WHAT TO BRING

If you’re planning on spending your time walking the Peak District’s many trails, then you will need to think about packing the right items. At a minimum, it’s recommended that you bring:

  • Rucksack: An item that’s always useful when hiking since it can hold all the your necessities.
  • Walking sticks: These are lightweight, telescopic poles that help you to climb the steeper hills.
  • Water: Always bring plenty of water; dehydration can occur even on the most unsuspecting of days.
  • Powerpack: While you might get a signal everywhere you go, you will still need your phone juiced up and ready for photo duty.
  • Raincoat: UK weather is notoriously changeable, and even if you begin your trek in glorious sunshine, it might end in torrential rainfall.
  • First Aid Kit: A simple kit will suffice. Band-aids and bandages should get you through any non-emergency medical issue until you get back to your accommodation.
  • Penknife: It’s always handy to have a multi-tool penknife with you, especially one with a corkscrew and bottle opener. 

Read: 5 IDEAL tips for a walking holiday in the UK

NEVER UNDERESTIMATE YOUR SURROUNDINGS

The UK’s scenery can shift from urban to rural in the blink of an eye, and this can sometimes lead to complacency when setting off on an outward bound adventure. On the peaks and in the moorlands, there’s always a risk of getting lost, stranded or even injured, particularly if the weather takes an all-too-predictable turn.

Ensure others know where you are and always be aware of your surroundings. This could be by informing the staff at your hotel or family members of your plans for the day. Understand that the weather can change instantly, and if you are caught out with the wrong gear, you could end up in a tight spot.

The Peak District is a beautiful place to visit all year round, especially during the summer. By ensuring that you create an itinerary and know the places to visit, you will have a fantastic time.

STAYCATION SPECIAL: 7 WEEKEND ESCAPES FROM LONDON FOR SUMMER 2021

Editorial Team
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STAYCATION SPECIAL: 7 WEEKEND ESCAPES FROM LONDON FOR SUMMER 2021

With government plans for the country’s holiday season still a little incoherent, we’ve been relying on whispers lately. And to be honest, we’d much rather be feeding on scraps of the battered kind right now.

Fortunately, holiday destinations within the UK aren’t in the same danger of a sudden change from amber to green and back again, and currently, a staycation represents the safest bet for a relaxing rendevous.

With foreign travel up in the air (or rather, grounded), and now the all clear on domestic travel has been given by the experts, we can’t wait to visit these places for a special staycation; our 7 weekend escapes from London for Summer 2021.

EXPLORE MANCHESTER’S NORTHERN QUARTER (2 HOURS FROM LONDON)

You can reach the capital of the North (nope, not Winterfell) in two hours from Euston – and yes, we’re thinking the same thing; that’s quicker than Tube hopping across London’s compass points to meet pals for a pint.

The city’s Northern Quarter has an ever-growing roster of independent bars, boutiques and eateries (check out our guide to 5 of the best restaurants near Manchester Picadilly, btw) to explore. If you fancy somewhere hip and happening, but want a change from the same, well trodden Shoreditch streets, then Manchester’s Northern Quarter will see you right.

GO THRIFT SHOPPING AROUND BRIGHTON & HOVE (1 HOUR FROM LONDON)

A stroll along Brighton seafront, skimming pebbles and checking out cheesy souvenir shops, fish and chips in one hand, plastic pint of flat lager in the other; there couldn’t be a more quintessential British day out if you tried. We love shopping for bits’n’bobs in the Laines, perusing antiques and perhaps even unearthing a gem or two; check out the vintage and thrift shops in the North Laine Bazaar, in particular.

The city has a diverse restaurant scene well and truly on the rise, too. Since you’re at the coast, it’s fish you should be eating and the pick of a very good bunch is perhaps Little Fish Kitchen in Hove, serving the freshest catch from local waters, cooked with the delicate hand and graceful seasoning it deserves.

GO HIKING IN THE LAKE DISTRICT (3 HOURS FROM LONDON)

Though it seems like a slog for a weekend break out of the capital, you’ll be surprised at what Londoners can squeeze into a weekend in the Lakes.

The tranquillity of the area is the ultimate escape from the Big Smoke’s hustle and bustle, we think. Trains to Oxenholme from Euston allow you to discover Windermere, Bowness and Kendal, where there are a host of walks of varying lengths that take in awe-inspiring views. If you’re feeling less energetic, just take a boat trip from Windermere Pere, which has many lake cruises available for hire, or simply admire the scenery from a beer garden. 

FEAST ON OYSTERS IN WHITSTABLE (1 HOUR & 20 MINUTES FROM LONDON)

Spend a morning art gallery hopping and picking up one-off finds in independent boutiques before heading to the harbour’s fish market. Buy fresh oysters and a bottle of something bubbly for a stylish picnic on the beach in front of the town’s Instagram-worthy candy-coloured beach huts.

End your day with a hyper-seasonal, ridiculously reasonable Michelin-starred meal at The Sportsman. This place is a favourite of chefs from across the globe and relies firmly on the land and sea surrounding the pub, and the bounty available here, from the Thames estuary, salt marshes and of course, the ocean, is of pristine quality and freshness. Most of the ingredients are actually visible from the pub itself; you can’t argue with that for quality.

BEACHED BOURNEMOUTH (1 HOUR & 45 MINUTES FROM LONDON)

The ping of penny machines on the pier, the squawk of seagulls, the nostalgic scent of fish and chips permeating the fresh seaside air; Bournemouth could give Brighton a run for its money in terms of the quintessential British seaside escape.

The city’s beach was crowned the U.K’s best at last year’s TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice Awards. Offering a seven-mile stretch of soft golden sand, combined with swimmer-friendly waters and the fact that Bournemouth gets warmer weather than most of the UK, it’s one of the top places in Britain to enjoy the country’s sand, sea and surf.

For a more secluded beach with a properly laid back feel, you can catch a bus (the Breezer 50 towards Swanage Bus station) from Bournemouth to nearby Studland, which is just beautiful. Tickets cost a fiver and the journey should take around 40 minutes. The best part? It takes across the sea via the Sandbanks Ferry for an added bit of excitement!

HANG OUT IN BRISTOL (1 HOUR & 45 MINUTES FROM LONDON)

Less than 2 hours from London by train will have you exploring The Harbourside Market, full of amazing street-food stalls, taking in views from the top of Cabot Tower and then heading to Clifton Lido for a swim outdoors. All of this before lunch, we think, at the city’s high regarded Wapping Wharf complex, where several Michelin awarded restaurants and other cracking independent eateries are housed within a collection of shipping containers.

Spend the afternoon sampling local ciders and graffiti-spotting before crossing the lovely Clifton Suspension Bridge at night. Then, descend into Bristol and onto the always raucous Whiteladies Road for a few drinks and a boogie. We’ve written your whole day for you, now care to invite us along for the ride?

GO BACK IN TIME IN STRATFORD-UPON-AVON (2.5 HOURS FROM LONDON)

If you’re a fan of Shakespeare, get yourself to the Bard’s home town where you can immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of this inspiration place. A row on the river and a stroll around thatched cottage lined streets sets the scene for a laid back summer evening perfectly.

Though performances are unlikely to on for the foreseeable future, The Swan Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Theatre are still well worth a visit. Also check out Anne Hathaway’s cottage and Shakespeare’s Birthplace, the latter a lovingly restored, timber framed house, with artefacts about the Bard’s upbringing, early life and inspirations.

Stratford-Upon-Avon isn’t only about one man though. In fact, there’s plenty of great things to do here. Do check out the MAD (Mechanical Art and Design Museum) as well as the lovely Stratford-Upon-Avon Butterly Farm, which is the country’s largest. Finish your day with a thoughtfully put together, accomplished tasting menu at Michelin starred Salt for a real treat.

5 WAYS TO KICKSTART YOUR CONFIDENCE AFTER A FITFUL FEW MONTHS

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5 WAYS TO KICKSTART YOUR CONFIDENCE AFTER A FITFUL FEW MONTHS

Confidence…it’s an elusive thing, and surprisingly difficult to define. Perhaps it’s because the quality appears in so many forms, from the brash and bold to the understated yet composed. Sometimes, it’s not even perceived as a quality at all.

But one thing is for certain; this stop-start year, of rules, restrictions and uncertainty, has left the collective confidence of the nation in tatters. We’ve spent so long indoors with only the cat for company that many have forgotten how to socialise, engage and communicate, and as lockdown lifts, this is being reflected in a lowered sense of self-esteem.

In fact, many experts believe that when nurturing a healthy sense of self-confidence, it’s a case of ‘’use it or lose it’’, and the fact we’ve been indoors and out of practice for so long has undoubtedly exacerbated self-esteem issues for many. Fortunately, there are some proactive steps you can take to get things back on track; here are 5 ways to kickstart your confidence after a fitful few months.

PRACTICE POSITIVE SELF TALK 

The vast majority of the country is well out of practice with face-to-face communication, that much has been established. But it seems like the way we communicate with ourselves has gotten a little dusty, too.

Believe it or not, but our internal monologue has a huge impact on our stress levels, dictating our mood way more than we give it credit for. The thoughts running through our minds, and in particular the way we talk to ourselves – our self-talk – can impact incredibly on our wellbeing.

Indeed, according to the guys at PsychAlive, ‘’The critical inner voice is an internal enemy that can affect every aspect of our lives, including our self-esteem and confidence’’.

Don’t let that nagging little s**t win. By developing positive self-talk habits, we set ourselves up to better deal with stress and anxiety. Often we are much, much harsher in the way we talk to ourselves than how we talk to anyone else; a product of evolution and risk avoidance, according to some psychologists. 

It’s all about nurturing an inner complimenter and motivator, recognising when you’ve done good and being forgiving of yourself when you’ve messed up. Of course, this comes with practice, but a fantastic way to slowly, even neurologically, cultivate this gentle and positive mindset is by keeping a gratitude diary or jar…

START A GRATITUDE JAR

It’s easy to wake up each day and think about all the negative things in the world. Right now, you’d certainly have your pick of them. But there’s also plenty to be thankful for out there, and research has consistently shown that practicing gratitude has links to an improved outlook on life. 

Incredibly, a 2018 study revealed notable changes in the brains of 16 women who wrote daily gratitude entries in an online journal when compared to those who didn’t. Doing so can help you gain a positive perspective on your problems and appreciate your plus points, too.

Try starting a gratitude jar or journal. Each day write down something you are grateful for on a piece a paper and place it in a jar or box. Try this for a month, and you’ll see how your confidence and contentment lifts. You can thank us later – with an entry in your jar, if you like.

SMILE MORE

This just in from NBC News; ‘’Smiling Can Trick Your Brain Into Happiness’’.

They explain that when you smile, you spur on a chemical reaction in the brain, releasing dopamine and serotonin, which helps boost happiness and lower stress. All of this leads to increased self-esteem..and here’s the really interesting part; these positive reactions happen even if you’re faking a smile!

Should your teeth be holding you back from smiling as radiantly as you’d like to, then there are treatments and procedures available, both on the NHS and privately, which can restore your confidence. You can straighten teeth, fix a cracked one or even have your whole set whitened…all of which can improve your smile and, in turn, your self-esteem.

SCHEDULE IN SOME ME TIME

Did you know that stress can have a huge impact on your self-esteem? Prevention is better than cure, as they say, and it’s essential that you indulge in some self-care to keep those stress levels low. In doing so, you might just find your confidence returning.

How often have you treated yourself to a massage or a spa weekend recently? Not very often, we’d wager. But as restrictions lift, now feels like the perfect time for some pampering, allowing you to feel physically refreshed and emotionally recharged. 

Make sure you make room for a little ‘me time’ at home, too. Create a skin care routine, and allow yourself to indulge in this pleasurable, sensual moment of looking after your body. Use a deep conditioning hair mask to add some shine and strengthen your hair; soak in a bubble bath with a facemask and read a book; indulge in a long, languid afternoon in front of your favourite show…all in the name of self-care and boosting your self-confidence! 

CUT DOWN ON SOCIAL MEDIA 

It’s time to curb all of that comparing yourself to others and banish those media-defined ideals of beauty and success. Easier said than done, we know, but a vital move nonetheless. Do yourself a favour and cut down on the amount of social media you’re using. You’ll be amazed at the results.

If you really can’t curb your obsession with social media – and yep, we accept it’s tough – then you could do worse than following some bloggers and Instagram influencers who are paeans to positivity, promoting self-love to perfectly imperfect people everywhere. So, spend some time cleaning up the people who you follow, removing those who make you feel bad about yourself and instead fill your feed with people who focus on feeling good about yourself. Who knew it could be so simple?

THE BOTTOM LINE

If your confidence has stalled lately, then rest assured, there are ways to kick start it – from cutting back on social media to smiling more, we hope you enter the second half of 2021 with a renewed sense of vim and vigour!

5 ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES TO DO ON A BEACH HOLIDAY

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5 ADVENTUROUS ACTIVITIES TO DO ON A BEACH HOLIDAY

And the IDEAL places to try them

For many, a beach vacation on an exotic island is all about the reclining. Horizontal in a hammock, gently swaying, soaking up the sun and sipping cocktails from a coconut..wow, writing that almost felt like a holiday in itself!

But if you tend to feel restless when you ‘should’ be relaxing, then beach holidays can be a bit of a nightmare, for both you and your companions. Indeed, for the restive type, rather than fidget and fuss on your beach towel, why not inject a little fun, excitement and adventure into your seaside holiday? 

If you’re more thrill than sand seeker and you’re looking for inspiration for your next trip, then here are 5 adventurous activities to do on a beach holiday and the IDEAL places the try them.

EMBRACE THE OPPORTUNITY TO GO SCUBA DIVING

One of the most popular adventures to engage in while on a beach holiday is scuba diving. This gives you an opportunity to explore under the water, which can be nothing short of spectacular. For many travellers, the vacation destination they choose is actually based on whether or not there are scuba diving opportunities there and, if so, how many dive sites are offered.

With a whopping 71% of the planet covered by the ocean, we think it’s fair to say that there are more incredible diving spots around the world than you can shake a snorkel at. However, one massive island known more than most for it’s beautiful, abundant coastline is Australia. From its crazy colourful coral reefs to the north to the giant kelp forests in the south, and its multitude of shipwrecks scattered throughout its surrounding oceans, this is the world’s premier diving destination. 

Yep, the Land Down Under has it all when it comes to Scuba Diving. However, if we had to pick one place to dive it would be the Osprey Reef. Located in the coral sea off the North Queensland coast, the Osprey Reef is arguably the best diving spot in the world and includes the famous shark feed dive at North Horn. So, apart from your diving equipment, you’d best bring your bravery.

If you want to be treated to top-notch scuba diving on your beach holiday, here are some more of the best destinations to visit:

  • Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
  • Cozumel, Mexico
  • Costa Rica
  • Bonaire
  • Cayo Largo, Cuba
  • Koh Tao, Thailand

For those planning to scuba dive, know that the fit is so important on a wetsuit, whether you buy or rent. For this reason, you might want to buy one yourself, accurately suited to your size and measurements. There are a lot of specifics in terms of fit here, and a rental may not necessarily tick all the boxes.

Read: 4 of the best deep blue sea diving sites in the world for beginners 

HIT THE WAVES AND HEAD OUT WITH A SURFBOARD

Depending on the destination you choose, it may also be ideal for surfing. This is a very popular sport at beaches around the world, and can be a really exciting activity for your holiday. If you’re new to surfing, you may want to head out with an instructor those first couple of times. They can go over the basics with you and help get you started.

Keep in mind that some beaches will be suited better for beginner surfers, whereas others are meant for the pros.

Here at IDEAL, Ericeira in Portugal is one of our favourite places to go surfing in the world. Originally known as a quaint fishing and seaside community, Ericeira is still very much untouched by major tourism. World famous for its diversity of waves, it’s one of Portugal’s most popular surfing locations, with an array of beaches capable of hosting those of varying skill levels. It’s ideal for seasoned and novice surfers and paired with its cultural charm, it’s a great destination for families.

Some of the other best surfing destinations in the world include:

  • Biarritz, France
  • Gold Coast, Australia
  • Maui, Hawaii
  • Southern Oaxaca, Mexico

SEA KAYAKING – A TOUCH OF ADVENTURE AND EXERCISE 

Sea kayaking is one of those activities that seamlessly blends adventure with a good workout, managing to trick even the most exercise-phobic traveller into getting their pulse rate up.

What’s more, it can be done in a huge array of destinations. Just be sure that the area you choose to kayak in is safe and that you’re prepared for the water and wave conditions. 

Depending on the destination, you’ll even be able to check out incredible sights along the way, like the cliffs, caves and underground springs that bubble to the surface in Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, or take in the massive variety of fish in Mexico’s Baja Peninsula – The Sea of Cortez – which has been coined the ‘world’s aquarium’. There are also some great kayaking opportunities when on a seaside holiday at Sea Pines, Hilton Head, should you be visiting the southern states of the US.

RENT A SCOOTER & GO BEACH HOPPING 

Not one for watersports? There are some places in the world that just beg to be experienced from the vantage point of a scooter, and tropical islands with dense foliage and steam seemingly rising off the roads are perhaps the pinnacle riding pinion. 

The sense of freedom, with the wind in your hair and sails and a feeling that adventure in your heart, is just a rev away. On two wheels, you can see so much more and in less time; the journey, as they say, is so much more than the destination. Whilst the world is your oyster on top a steel horse, here are some of our favourite places to ride:

  • Thailand’s southern islands 
  • The Greek Islands, too
  • Perhaps the most spectacular coastal path in the world, The Hai Van Pass between Hue and Da Nang, Vietnam
  • Closer to home, the east coast of England’s coastal road from Skegness to Whitby is pretty special

PARASAILING

An adrenaline-raising, gravity-defying sport which gives you a magnificent view of the beach and the sea, too? Count us in!

For the uninitiated, parasailing – sometimes referred to as water parasailing – involves a thrill-seeking individual being harnessed to a parasail wing (the part that looks like a parachute) and then being towed at speed by a speedboat until they are propelled into the air by the power of wind force. 

Whilst it looks like a daring sport fraught with danger, parasailing is actually surprisingly safe, with control and caution exercised at every turn. In fact, there aren’t a great deal of turns – the predictability and straight lines of the speed boat is one of the key reasons parasailing is actually incredibly safe. 

If you’re still not convinced, we’ll just say this; your chance of being in a fatal accident parasailing is 1 in 2.5 million. And if you’d rather not land in the water and instead prefer a dry landing, this can be easily arranged, too!

Anyway, any beach with a free-wheeling spirit and predictably tranquil skies can host this fantastic pastime, but some of my favourite places to parasail in the world include Phuket in Thailand, Miami, Rio’s famous Copacabana Beach and Kerela or Goa in India.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Phew, after all that adventure, we need a lie down! Now, where did we lay our beach towel?

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ROYAL ASCOT

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EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ROYAL ASCOT

Located in the small town of Ascot in Berkshire, England, sits a dual-purpose racecourse famous for the annual Royal Ascot event. Hosting 600,000 people per year, 26 days of racing, and the Royal Meeting held every June, Royal Ascot is permanently cemented into the British social calendar. The prestigious venue is set to host their most coveted event, Royal Ascot, this June under social distancing guidelines, with only a few thousand racegoers permitted each day.

In preparation, TA-DAH.TV have given the low down on everything you need to know about the historic racecourse, famous racing events and its royal ties. 

ROYAL ASCOT – A VERY ROYAL RACECOURSE 

Ascot, as we all have come to know, is famous for their main event Royal Ascot. Hosted in June, this famous social calendar event evolved from the first four-day race meeting held at Ascot in 1768. A 5-day event with the Gold Cup race at its feature on the third day, sees crowds draw in for their busiest and most prestigious event of the year. The 179-acre racecourse is leased from the Crown Estate and only 6 miles from Windsor Castle, so it is no surprise Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II attends Ascot more than once a year.

The Royal Meeting, however, is central to the racecourse’s ties with the British Royal Family, seeing a Royal procession each day of the event at 2pm. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the Queen and members of her family arrive down the straight to the sound of the National Anthem – no less.

The 5 days of Royal Ascot are abuzz with visitors of high society, fabulous fashion, elegance, and the best millinery creations your eyes will ever see. Hosting some of the world’s finest racehorses, all in an effort to compete for the grand prize money of more than £6m!

RACES AND EVENTS AT ASCOT

Over the course of a year 26 race days are held at the racecourse. The flat season is held between April and October and includes famous, well-known races such as, the Commonwealth Cup, Kings Stand Stakers, and The King George VI and Queen Elizabeth QIPCO Stakes. Over the many years Ascot has been hosting these flat races, numerous famous horses have taken to the straights such as Frankel, Sagaro, and Dancing Brave. The jumps season then takes over in October until March, where Ascot hosts 8 days of jumps racing. This starts with one of their family race days. Just like the flats, Ascot has welcomed many a famous jumps horse including, Arkle, Sprinter Sacre, and Desert Orchid. 

On top of the riveting, fast-paced races, the events at Ascot are also considered huge societal and fashion events. Royal Ascot, as just one example, has become more than just horseracing. Upheld by a strict dress code, the event is a major annual fashion event for visitors. Women and Men are expected to adhere to dress code policy, depending upon their enclosure.

The Royal Enclosure requests guests to respect the dress code by adhering to modest, formal daywear. This includes the desire for hats to be worn. Allowing for some spectacular, eye-catching head pieces on display. You will find a flurry of household designer names like Rachel Trevor-Morgan and Philip Treacy OBE. 

HOSPITALITY AND FACILITIES AT ASCOT

Available at all 26 races days on Ascot’s annual calendar is the option to book fine dining hospitality packages. Choose from a deliciously designed à la carte menu by a top-class Michelin starred chef at Royal Ascot. Or treat you, your family, and friends to a three-course menu at any of Ascot’s other 21 race days. For an added sense of luxury and exclusivity, Ascot allow for the booking of private boxes across their race days, allowing guests to be at the heart of the action whilst enjoying impeccable service. – vey cool!

With a choice of packages, guests can select the level of experience they desire from a day at Ascot. Boxes range from 10 seater to 72 seater, so large groups of families and friends or corporate bookings are catered for. Forever incorporating luxury into everything they do, the platinum package includes champagne and canapes on arrival, as well as a 4-course set lunch menu – what more could you want from a day at the races! 

ENCLOSURES 

There are several different enclosures designed to cater for all needs of visiting racegoers, from top-end hospitality to basic viewing options. All within various prices points with differing facilities. 

As expected, the Royal enclosure can be accessed by invite only – during Royal Ascot this area will be used by the British Royal Family. Those entering the royal enclosure are restricted to a strict dress code. This is a high-end experience with the absolute best views of the races and an absolute favourite with celebrities and famous faces, who have close ties with the Royals.

The Windsor enclosure is the perfect alternative for those looking for a premium experience of Ascot without the premium prices. It is also well known for the best views of the royal procession at the Royal Meeting. 

For younger racegoers, the newer village enclosure offers the perfect “festival feel” environment. The dress code is more relaxed. Situated in the middle of the track, it offers a new party experience of Royal Ascot, with pop-up bars and dining, there are many options here to enjoy. 

With luxurious dining, Royal experiences, high-end race viewing and very British picnics – Ascot is the place to be. 

5 MISTAKES FREELANCERS MAKE & THE IDEAL WAYS TO REMEDY THEM

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5 MISTAKES FREELANCERS MAKE & THE IDEAL WAYS TO REMEDY THEM

There aren’t many jobs where dreams and reality diverge quite so drastically. In the imagination of those in permanent, long term employment, the freelancer rolls out of bed at noon, fixes themselves an espresso (martini) and types a few paragraphs of poetry or prose. 

In actuality, it’s a form of employment plagued by uncertain incomes, unpaid holidays and unpredictable hours. Because of this lack of stability, being a successful freelancer often relies on having your fingers in as many pies as possible (leave a couple spare for all that typing, though).

But this emphasis on multitasking can often leave a freelancer prone to stress, overwork or a lack of appropriate prioritising. Fear not; these issues can be avoided. Whether you are creating various forms of content or diversifying your efforts to provide a steady income stream, here are 5 mistakes freelancers make and the IDEAL ways to remedy them. 

NOT GETTING APPROPRIATE SUPPORT

Though no man/woman/or non-binary person is an island, being a freelancer can often feel like you’re stranded on one. As such, you might find yourself trying to do everything yourself, both to save money and retain creative control of every process of your precious work.

We don’t blame you. But we can’t stress this enough; collaboration is king and sharing the load (even at a cost) is extremely worthwhile, for your creative output and your stress levels. 

Whether this happens via you hiring a virtual assistant, enlisting the help of a company who organises your Microsoft Ads management, or hiring a strategist to help you optimise your web content for SEO, when you are starting out, you need to make the most of the resources out there. Devolve, delegate and depute.

Read: Virtual Assistants: What they do and how to find one 

DEVALUING YOUR WORTH

When the hours are uncertain and you don’t have a fixed, stable income, it can be tempting to take on too much for too little, just to maintain some semblance of consistency.

Therefore, we gradually lower our prices until we have enough projects, but this digs us into a hole. When we value our worth, it has a direct knock-on effect on how we perceive ourselves, and ultimately, how we produce. 

It’s important to research a fair hourly or daily rate for your experience level and demand it from your clients. Selling yourself short risks a ‘race to the bottom’ situation where the perceived value of your work is cheapened and eventually, you have to charge less just to stay afloat.

NOT LOOKING AFTER YOUR WELLBEING 

When you’re a freelancer, the boundaries of home and office converge in such a way that you never clock out, even answering emails in your sleep. The weekends are still work days, and the money rarely arrives when it’s supposed to. There’s no holiday pay, in fact, there’s no holiday; laptops come everywhere and anywhere. No surprise then, that freelancers are particularly vulnerable to stress related mental health problems.

It’s wise, then, for freelancers to take proactive steps to look after their wellbeing. One way to do this is by setting digital boundaries. If you’re not strict and disciplined about your screentime, as a freelancer you’ll likely find that your eyes are fixed on a laptop or phone from the moment you first sit down to work in the morning to the point you turn in for the night. With no true downtime, stress is inevitable. 

Consider setting locks on your devices so you’re not able to access your emails and files after a certain time each evening. It makes sense to set one too for your lunch break, even if it’s just for 30 minutes, to allow you a little time to recharge and replenish. 

Read: 5 IDEAL ways to be a more efficient freelancer

FORGETTING TO NETWORK 

Being a freelancer means getting used to your own company, but for many of us, that can also mean forgetting quite how to communicate in real world settings. 

Don’t neglect to make connections with your contemporaries, colleagues and peers where possible. Instead, expand your horizons and launch yourself back into the face-to-face side of things (when COVID-19 restrictions permit it, of course). Networking online is one thing, but if you’re keen to get ahead, then transcending from the digital to the real world will help you do just that. 

Nurturing positive working relationships in the flesh as a freelancer can really help you build up a larger client base and, as a result, keep that income steady and stable. So, endeavour to organise meetings in real life and attend freelancing events and industry-specific conferences, to ensure you’re getting your face (and work) out there and noticed.

STOPPING LEARNING

Most people believe that finding that first customer or client takes a freelancer halfway to success. This is true to a certain extent. However, to remain competitive and win well-paid projects, you have to invest in your professional education and always be improving. 

Regardless of the type of services you offer, you have to be a life-learner to succeed. As a customers’ demands change – and they will change – so does the industry and niche-related trends. Thus, to make freelancing your stable source of income, you have to develop as a professional. The studying process will help you develop new skills and keep up with the key trends, both essential ingredients to long term success.

5 IDEAL PLACES TO GET YOUR FISH & CHIP FIX IN LONDON

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5 IDEAL PLACES TO GET YOUR FISH & CHIP FIX IN LONDON

No British summer would be complete without fish & chips. Preferably enjoyed by the beach, served in newspaper and topped with a generous dousing of salt ‘n’ vinegar. If you can’t make it down to the seaside this summer worry not. We’ve handpicked the best places in London for you to enjoy this very British dish. You may not be by the seaside, but at least you won’t have to contend with those swooping, chip-stealing seagulls.

HOOK

The Ideal place to reignite your love of fish and chips

We often think that if a recipe works, why mess with it? No need to deconstruct…

We thought this about fish & chips, until we went to Hook. In essence, this is still a classic fish & chippy, however, they swim against the traditional tide in favour of an innovative approach to cooking it. And in doing so they win first plaice on our list.

Coated in delicate panko breadcrumbs, the catch here is laced with international influences. Also, forget the traditional dollop of tomato sauce, each dish is accompanied by an exciting and complementing homemade sauce (their Malaysian curry panko with spicy pineapple and ginger ketchup is excellent).

The Guinness & Squid Ink offering, served with oyster and sorrel sauce has cult status, and we can see why it’s caught people’s attention and got them hooked.

www.hookrestaurants.com

POPPIES

The ideal place for tasty, traditional fish and chips

The owner of Poppies has been in the fish and chips business since 1945. That’s a lot of time to perfect one of Britain’s best-loved dishes. And perfect he has.

Here, it’s all about unpretentious old-school cooking. The Billingsgate-sourced fish is wonderfully fresh and flaky, the batter is light, and the chips are crisp and just that little bit soggy. What’s not to love? Besides the main event, we also recommend ordering a portion of the jellied eels. These slimy little critters have long been an emblem of London, and the owner is still keeping the memory alive here by having them on the menu.

P.S At Poppie’s Camden branch, they have #FishNGigs nights, too. Go.

Poppiesfishandchips.co.uk

SUTTON AND SONS

The ideal chippy for fresh and seasonal fish

An East London favourite which will leave you thinking ‘holy chips this is good’, Sutton & Son’s is a family-run fish and chip shop serving up delicious fish & chips. What’s more, they sell some of the finest shellfish in East London from their very own fishmongers. You can get your claws into lobster, clams and plenty more of whatever’s fresh and seasonal.

They also do the chippy classics that every Brit should know and love – their battered sausage is damn fine and the steak and kidney pie could warm the cockles off any cold English night. Lovely stuff.

www.suttonandsons.co.uk

CHIP SHOP

The ideal place to enjoy fish and chips while bobbing to hip hop music

This hip hop themed Fish ’n’ Chip restaurant in Brixton seems an odd proposition, but try telling that to the hugely mixed clientele of old and young attending this place with regularity and enthusiasm. It may seem odd to see your elderly grandfather dunking chips in homemade mushy peas whilst his foot slyly taps along to Biggy, but the quality of the fish and chips speaks for itself.

www.chipshopbxtn.com

TOFF’S

The ideal place for multi-award-winning fish and chips

No, this place isn’t full of toffs thinking they’re descended from the landed gentry. Thank christ.

Actually, the name comes from the owners’ family surname, Toffalis, and here, everyone is welcome to enjoy their award winning fish & chips – for the many, not the few. Open since 1987 and reportedly taking 50 orders an hour, it’s been voted ‘Best Fish and Chips in the UK ‘ more than once, and won numerous other awards including ‘Most Family Friendly Restaurant’. Bravo!

www.toffsfish.co.uk

 

5 TIPS FOR STARTING A BOOMING BABY BUSINESS

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5 TIPS FOR STARTING A BOOMING BABY BUSINESS

As reported by The MBS Group, the baby products market is valued at around $158bn worldwide and “like babies themselves, the market looks set only to grow”. 

Interestingly, many market analysts concur, with experts pointing to the fact that some couples are choosing to start families later in life and as a result, have extra disposable income to spend on such products.

If you’ve been doing some soul searching over lockdown and are considering pivoting to a life of being your own boss in the world of baby products, then, firstly; we commend your bravery! It’s a competitive industry, that’s for sure, but it’s also a lucrative one if you play your cards right. That said, it’s not a decision you should take lightly. For beginners in the industry, here are 5 tips for starting a booming baby business.

CHECK IF YOUR IDEA IS ORIGINAL

There are hundreds, no, thousands, no, millions of different baby products out there. As such, the first thing you need to do is research the market and validate your idea, both to check if it already exists elsewhere, and to see if it’s an idea which would appeal. 

It’s sensible at the ideas stage of any product to first conduct a patent search, which you can do via the UK Government’s dedicated ‘search for a patent’ page. You can also search for any trademarks via the Intellectual Property Office, who enable you to search their directory using key words and phrases. 

Once you’ve established that your baby product idea is your own and original, it’s wise to get a feel within your chosen market segment (ie. new parents) about whether the product has legs. You should do this before you build any prototypes – more of that in a minute, by the way. 

This can either be done informally, by asking friends, family and anyone else who will listen whether they think your product has potential. Or, you can conduct your research in a more serious, professional way, via focus groups and online questionnaires.

Read: 6 tips for balancing your business and your baby

GET YOUR PROTOTYPE 

Once you’ve validated your idea, it’s time to get a prototype together. Without one, you won’t be able to attract investors or get your product spec adjusted, calibrated and optimised ready for its launch.

This is relatively simple but pretty much compulsory as you’ll need a prototype to get your product manufactured. Immould injection mold design is often used for babycare products like dummies, bathtubs, potties, baby cutlery and bowls, and is ideal for producing plastic prototypes safely and affordably. As such, it represents the ideal material from which to have your prototype built. 

If you’re going into the baby snack business, on the other hand, you’ll first need to consider your product in terms of ingredients, hygiene of production, nutritional value and consistency of result. But you’ll also need to get prototype packaging sorted; ideally, you’ll find a manufacturer who prioritises safe, sustainable packaging. 

Read: 6 IDEAL tips for successfully starting a business from home

WRITE A BUSINESS PLAN

As Forbes writes “No matter what phase your business is in, drafting a strong business plan and understanding what’s essential to it will ensure your success.”

Never a truer word said, we think. Indeed, an effective business plan, done with due diligence and detail, will define the total expected costs, the technology required, the level of marketing, staffing and manufacturing needs …basically, everything. 

That’s not all. A business plan won’t only help you during those initial stages of your business. It will also act as something of a roadmap to success, guiding you through making the right decisions and taking the right direction later down the line. It’s also essential if you’re seeking to raise money for your business as you’ll need to present it to investors, speaking of which….

FIND FUNDING 

As your business grows, you’ll of course be on the lookout for big-time investors in order to increase your capital investment. Here are some ways you can fund your new business

  • Bootstrapping – This is is actually more of a mentality than a funding avenue, with the term primarily defined by extreme financial frugalness in the early days of a business. A major element of this frugalness is the emphasis on self-funding rather than seeking external capital.
  • Crowdfunding – A well orchestrated crowdfunding campaign can serve as fantastic marketing when carried out astutely. It can help gauge interest in your business and understand what needs to be done to cater to your customers’ needs and wants
  • Business Loans – Loans are one of the more traditional methods of external business funding, and remain a widespread form of raising capital for new and small firms. 
  • Investors – We’ve all seen Dragon’s Den, right? Yeah, those guys. However, bear in mind that they usually concentrate on investing in mature companies. They will also tend to insist on having hands-on involvement in your business to ensure that the cash flow and ROI they require are achieved. 

Read: 4 financial tips for start-up businesses

GET ONLINE AND ON AMAZON 

Investment is vital, sure, and being on physical shelves in physical stores is almost always the goal of an emerging baby product, make no mistake. That said, if you want to start raking in good quality exposure to your target market and begin to make sales 24 hours a day, an online presence is absolutely essential, too. 

You’ll of course need a professional looking website, complete with a shopping cart system and secure payment gateway so you can sell your products directly to customers. What’s more, a strong social media presence will help you direct customers to your website and generate visits into sales.

But equally as essential as a website and a social media presence is getting and selling your product on Amazon. As reported by Business Insider “Amazon currently makes up 43% of all market share for online baby supplies.” Enough said. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

The baby product market is a tough industry to crack, particularly if your idea is in its infancy and hasn’t quite matured yet. That said, it’s also a lucrative market, and we wish you the best of luck in making the most of it!

5 WAYS TO MAKE SOME EXTRA MONEY ON THE SIDE THIS SUMMER

Editorial Team
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5 WAYS TO MAKE SOME EXTRA MONEY ON THE SIDE THIS SUMMER

Ideal for boosting your income. 

Phew. We’d forgotten just how much being ‘allowed out’ costs! After months of lockdowns, restrictions and public spaces being closed, the previous few weeks have certainly taken their toll on our bank balances. 

With restaurants and pubs once again open and friends and family permitted to socialise, it feels like the spending hasn’t stopped since the lockdown drawbridge was lowered. If you now find yourself nursing a pretty massive hangover and an empty wallet, fear not; there are some simple ways to get to coffers looking healthy again. With that in mind, here are 5 ways to make some extra money on the side this summer.

SELL STUFF

Almost everyone has a few items that they don’t use that could be enjoyed by someone else. It could be clothes you no longer wear, furniture that no longer suits your style, or it could be a large appliance like a washing machine that you’re getting rid of because you’ve recently upgraded. 

As long as your items are in good condition (or in the case of furniture, salvageable), you can most definitely sell them to someone else. As the saying goes, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure, so if you’ve got something that no longer has a place in your home, take photos of it and sell it! 

There are a number of websites you can list items on, such as Shopfiy, Gumtree, Facebook Marketplace or eBay, as well as apps like Vinted and Depop where you can sell your secondhand clothes.

Alternatively, you might choose to post your advert in a local social media group. 

When you do sell items and post them out, make sure to get a postage receipt in case something goes awry with the delivery. This provides you with an element of protection, as well as showing your buyer that you’re a reputable seller and have posted their item. 

Read: 5 tips for shifting your belongings online

TAKE PART IN SURVEYS 

If you have a bit of time to kill in the evenings and want to generate a modest fee, you can do so by taking part in surveys. Market research is vital to brands which means they’re constantly looking for organic and honest feedback, so much so that they’re usually willing to pay for it. 

To make money from surveys, simply sign up to a survey site and follow the guidance. Typically, you will be required to do a set amount of surveys. You won’t make enough money to retire, but the more surveys you complete, the more money you’ll make. Alternatively, the companies might gift you discounts and offers for famous brands – every little helps, hey!

SELL PHOTOS 

If you’ve taken a good portrait or a location image that you think could do well as a stock photo, then sell it! You can make a neat sum every time your photo is downloaded, and unless you remove your photo, you can continue to make money from it forever more. Some of the best stock photo websites for selling your photography include Shutterstock, iStock by Getty Images, Alamy and Dreamstime.

RENT OUT YOUR HOUSE 

We don’t mean sub-letting here, which might get you into trouble. Nope, we mean renting your house out as a filming location or a photoshoot studio for media projects. 

Whether you live in a small basement apartment or a grand stately home, there could well be a demand for your property type in the world of photography and filming. By listing your house as a media project location, you can bring in a tidy amount of money for essentially doing nothing. It will pay more than taking surveys, but you will need to bear in mind that your house needs to be tidy and clean at all times, and that depending on the project type, you might have to deal with some obstruction to your daily life. 

If this isn’t a problem for you, list your property online and begin generating a passive income almost instantly! 

SWITCH BANK ACCOUNT

Is there a word for that feeling of utter dread prior to checking your bank balance? There should be. Anyway, while we’re on the subject, switching your bank account or opening a second could bring in a little sunshine to an otherwise bleak month. Banks are trying to challenge the notion that customers are way too loyal (see lazy) to ever switch by offering some pretty serious incentives to up sticks. It’s not immediate, with the old switcheroo usually taking 7 days, but the rewards are decent nonetheless.

These are just five ways you can make money from being at home. Will you be trying any?

YOUR QUESTIONS ON 16:8 INTERMITTENT FASTING ANSWERED

Editorial Team
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YOUR QUESTIONS ON 16:8 INTERMITTENT FASTING ANSWERED

Though medical opinion on the efficacy of various diets is constantly evolving, in recent years, a host of neuroscientists, nutritionists and doctors have voiced cautious support for a specific, time-dependent diet; 16:8 intermittent fasting.

Whilst the word ‘fasting’ tends to evoke alarm bells in the sustainable, sensible eater, intermittent fasting (or ‘IF’) is intended to be more manageable in its approach, allowing the user to continue enjoying all food groups and achieving a balanced diet, but simply focusing on the timeframe in which they eat as a means of hacking the way their body burns through energy.

Though previously dismissed as a fad diet, – and the jury is still out on the 5:2 version – there is now increasing evidence to suggest that the 16:8 plan, particularly, can be useful in managing weight. Dr Deborah Wexler, via Harvard Health, suggests that ‘’there is evidence to suggest that the circadian rhythm fasting approach, where meals are restricted to an eight to 10-hour period of the daytime, is effective.’’

Mark Mattson, a neuroscientist with Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore, tends to agree, suggesting in a new review in the Dec. 26 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine via WebMD, that ‘’The state of the science on intermittent fasting has evolved to the point that it now can be considered as one approach, with exercise and healthy food, to improving and maintaining health as a lifestyle approach.” Food for thought, indeed.

If you’re keen to learn more, then you’ve come to the right place; here are your questions on 16:8 intermittent fasting answered.

WHAT IS INTERMITTENT FASTING?

When people hear the term ‘fasting’, they tend to think about the rules of Ramadan where eating during the day is not permissible. 

This isn’t what intermittent fasting (IF) is – it’s actually designed to be a little more manageable. The basis of IF is that you select a set timeframe to eat in which is generally less spread out across the day than a normal eating pattern of breakfast, lunch and dinner. Then, you only eat within this more narrow window, though it should be emphasised that normal healthy eating principles apply within this window.

For beginners, a 16:8 ratio is a good place to start. This means you’ll fast for 16 hours and eat your day’s meals during an eight hour window. There are different ratios to choose from, so if 16:8 doesn’t suit you, you can try something else instead, but this is generally considered the most common and most manageable division of time. 

HOW DOES INTERMITTENT FASTING WORK?

When you’ve selected the timeframe ratio you’re going to fast for, the ‘rules’ are quite simple. For those following the 16:8 ratio, you might choose to eat between the hours of 10am and 6pm. This window of time will allow you to eat a late breakfast, a lunch and dinner, with plenty of time for snacking in between. 

With IF, you don’t need to restrict foods or cut out specific food groups – you can eat what you want. It’s recommended that you try and eat a healthy, balanced diet, but you don’t need to worry about ‘cheat days’ or other dieting principles which may in fact be unsustainable and damaging in the long run.

When your eight hour eating window closes, you don’t eat until it opens back up again. It’s best to time the majority of the fasting overnight so that you’re not tempted by food; this will make it easier to follow through with the diet. 

WHAT IS AN EXAMPLE OF AN IF DIET?

As mentioned, a 16:8 IF doesn’t require any specific dietary changes, but if you’re looking for a good example of something to follow, here’s what one day might look like:

  • 7am – wake up 
  • 10am – drink a glass of water and eat a bowl of porridge with mixed berries and a side of granola 
  • 11:30am – drink a glass of water and eat a snack of two pieces of fresh fruit and yoghurt
  • 1:30pm – drink a glass of water and eat a lunch of wholemeal pasta with mixed vegetables and salt and pepper chicken
  • 3pm – drink a glass of water 
  • 4pm – eat a snack (this could be a treat snack like a chocolate bar and a piece of fruit)
  • 5:45pm – drink a glass of water and eat a good size portion of Thai green curry with brown rice 

This isn’t to say that your day needs to be structured exactly like this, but snacking in between meals and drinking plenty of water will ensure you satisfy your hunger and remain hydrated and healthy. You can eat whatever you want, when you want, but the above example gives you a good idea of how the 16:8 ratio could work. 

The principles remain that you enjoy meals as normal, but your breakfast falls a little later than is traditional, and your dinner falls a little earlier than most people eat theirs.

CAN YOU EXERCISE WITH IF? 

Of course! The NHS recommends that all adults should aim to be physically active everyday, and strive to enjoy at least 150 minutes (that’s two and a half hours) of moderate intensity activity a week or 75 minutes (an hour and fifteen minutes) of vigorous intensity activity a week.

That said, during periods of intermittent fasting it’s wise to time your exercise accordingly. For those who are comfortable exercising on an empty stomach, working out in the morning before your eating window begins is best. If you exercise well after fuelling, then working out after your eating window closes will likely suit you better. 

It’s essential that you listen to your body when exercising to ensure that you’re not pushing yourself too hard. Should you begin to feel dizzy or weak, take a time out and drink a carbohydrate-electrolyte drink.

DOES IF WORK?

The question on everyone’s lips is does intermittent fasting actually work? A consensus has not yet been reached on that one, but some recent studies conducted have shown it to be a potentially effective tool in losing fat and retaining muscle when combined with exercise and healthy eating.

IS IF SUITABLE FOR EVERYONE?

That said, caution is recommended; the team at Harvard Health go on to say that ‘’people with advanced diabetes or who are on medications for diabetes, people with a history of eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should not attempt intermittent fasting unless under the close supervision of a physician who can monitor them’’.

*This article is not intended to replace medical or dietary advice, diagnosis or treatment given by a qualified health professional. Instead, this article only provides information, not advice. For any medical enquiries, always consult your GP first*

5 OF THE BEST SUMMER SPORTS TO PLAY IN A SMALL GARDEN

Editorial Team
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5 OF THE BEST SUMMER SPORTS TO PLAY IN A SMALL GARDEN

There’s nothing better than getting out and getting fit in the summer sun. The COVID-19 pandemic has prevented many people from accessing sports pitches and communal sports areas over the last year, and depending on where you live, this could still be the case this summer….

Rather than miss out on a summer of sporting fun for a second year in a row, get prepared and make the most of your garden as a sports pitch, even if you only have a small outdoor space to work with. We’ve put together a list of the best garden sports you can play or enjoy even in the most compact of settings. Here they are; our 5 of the best summer sports to play in a small garden.

CROQUET 

Nothing says quintessential British summer quite like a game of croquet and a glass of Pimm’s. We say quintessentially British, but it’s believed that the game actually originated in France or Ireland. Nonetheless…

For those with a lawn, croquet could provide you with all the entertainment you need to make your summer soiree stand out from the rest. With some music in the background, a buffet of good food and some delicious drinks to hand, you’ll find yourself with the perfect backdrop to a friendly game of croquet. Now that sounds like the ideal summer garden party to us!

This is also a great choice for those who are otherwise not sporty as it’s not so physically taxing. All you need for a casual game is a mallet, six hoops, coloured balls and a peg. Using the mallet, players simply take it in turns to hit the balls through the six hoops in order, before aiming their ball for the ‘centre peg’ to win the game.

BOULES 

The game of boules, otherwise known as pétanque, is the ideal summer garden game. As Mike Pegg, the then president of the English Pétanque Association, tells the Guardian ‘’it’s exceptionally sociable yet tremendously competitive. You can play it on any reasonably level patch of bare hard ground; you don’t need a manicured lawn”. 

A boules set consists of a case of eight metal, hollow pétanque balls with markings to denote each team, and a ‘jack’, which is a smaller coloured ball. Simply put, the aim of the game is to throw the ball as close to the jack as possible, though there’s a real art to the throwing technique itself. 

GARDEN CRICKET 

A game of garden cricket involves smaller, softer versions of the traditional bat, ball and wickets required for this iconic sport, enabling the little ones to hit a four or a six without smashing a window in the process! 

Some conscientious homeowners might consider investing in a cricket catcher – essentially a large net behind the bowler which balls are hit into – to mitigate the danger to property involved in a rogue, ambitious lofted straight drive. Now, all you have to worry about is protecting yourself! 

SWINGBALL 

Not everyone has a tennis court sized garden, and those who do might not necessarily want a Rusedski-speed serve aimed towards their house!

Despite this, tennis is unarguably fun to play and is synonymous with the summer months, making it a staple sport for the season. If you want to enjoy all the fun of practicing your forehand, backhand and serve but you only have a small garden space to work with, then why not opt for swingball instead? 

It requires very little room, with just a top Babolat tennis racket in hand and the ball attached to a piece of rope, meaning you don’t need to worry about broken glass or a sore head should you get bumped with it. Both children and adults can enjoy a game of swingball, making it universally fun for everyone. 

TRAMPOLINING 

If you’re looking for a more cardio based summer garden sport to indulge in this year, but space is tight and doing laps of your garden just isn’t an option, then why not consider a trampoline? 

Having a daily bounce will get your heart rate pumping, burn some fat and – best of all – evoke a smile and some laughs along the way. The whole family can get involved in trampolining, but you don’t need children to join in with the fun! That’s what makes this a great garden sport – everyone can enjoy it and it can be as intensive or as amateur as you’d like! 

Now the sun’s come out, fancy a game?

While you’re with us, it’s essential that you take the necessary precautions to protect your skin if you’re spending long periods playing games in your garden. Check out these 5 tips for protecting your skin when exercising outside.

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