Menu
Home Blog Page 237

THE IMPORTANCE OF DIET: 5 WAYS TO MANAGE WEIGHT WITHOUT THE EXERCISE

Editorial Team
-
0
THE IMPORTANCE OF DIET: 5 WAYS TO MANAGE WEIGHT WITHOUT THE EXERCISE

Many of us are keen to shed a few pounds accumulated during a previous six months defined by banana bread, sourdough and takeaway pizzas. But while the causes listed are dietary, when considering weight loss, so many people’s attention automatically turns to working out. You might be imagining yourself downloading workout apps, watching Joe Wicks videos, signing up for a gym membership or perhaps making your own at home. 

And if you’re keen on building muscle or tone, this is definitely the best way to go about it. But in terms of weight loss, intense exercise can be tough to maintain, and before long, you’re back to square one. What’s more, there are many who simply aren’t able to exercise, due to injury or immobility. Fortunately, for these people, there are solutions.

In fact, as a general rule, it’s been said that a person should apply the rule of 80%/20% in favour of nutrition over exercise to lose weight; it’s actually possible to change one’s body composition through diet alone without exercise. 

With a focus falling firmly on the importance of diet today, here are 5 ways to lose weight without the exercise. 

A DIET PLAN

Not everyone is aware that diet plays a much bigger role than exercise when it comes to losing significant weight. Although exercise benefits are real, they can’t provide you with the results you want if you don’t do it consistently. 

People with a busy lifestyle struggle to lose weight because they don’t have time to go to the gym or do home workouts. On the flip side, many also struggle with weight loss because they don’t have the time to cook healthy, balanced meals every night. For the latter, following diet plans from nutrition experts can be helpful, as they provide you with the right amount of nutrition for every meal. 

If you do have enough hours in the day to cook regularly, then drawing up a meal prep plan each week, and cooking in batches, is a smart move to keep in control of your diet.

KEEP A JOURNAL

Being conscious of what you take in is the first step to changing your diet and losing weight. Keeping a journal or monitoring your weight loss journey is essential as it gives you an idea of how to properly manage the situation. 

Writing down your food intake makes you more aware of how much you’re eating, and what, and the effect those meals are having on your moods and waistline. Taking a few minutes a day to look back at what you had for breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner will help you evaluate what you can change with the routine. 

Include your weight in the journal. Keeping track of your weight will be the starkest, most tangible way to identify progress. Being conscious of your weight will make you more aware of what’s happening in your body and direct you to focus on what you need to change to become healthier; that sense bettering yourself each day can really help.  

Joining a weight loss challenge with strangers or friends can keep those competitive spirits high, too. Make sure you note every effort you made in your diary and keep track of the things you need to monitor. 

CHANGE YOUR DIET

You don’t need to do high-intensity exercises every day to lose a significant amount of weight. Changing what you eat is critical to losing weight without the added exertion of regular gym sessions. Here are some of the things you need to do.

  • Focus on nutrition – Being mindful about the food choices you make can help you to focus on eating nutritionally balanced food to ensure your body is getting all the nutrients it needs each day. If you are eating a varied diet, you can remove the need to add supplements to your routine.
  • Eat more protein – Protein is necessary for growth and for developing an efficient metabolism. That doesn’t mean you have to be scoffing down loads of meat, if that’s not your thing. Consider other protein sources like eggs, chia seeds, and tofu. 
  • Incorporate more fibre – This helps in cleaning your digestive tract through regular, erm, flow. Fibre is common in fruits and vegetables, oatmeal and legumes. Fibre slows down digestion, making you feel fuller and preventing constipation. 
  • Try probiotics – Foods with high probiotics help in initiating good digestion. Foods high in probiotics, such as fermented items like yoghurt and kimchi, help the good bacteria in your intestines work to provide you with enough energy to fuel your day. 

DRINK WATER AND CUT SUGARY DRINKS

To lose weight, practice drinking water 30 minutes before your meal. When you drink water before meals, you feel fuller, and this will tell your brain not to eat more than you need. On top of that, cutting back on the sugary drinks is also hugely beneficial for your health; these drinks (soda, synthetic fruit juices…you know the drill) contain high levels of, you guessed it, sugar.

If you do have a craving for that sweetness, prioritise healthier choices like sparkling lemon water, mint tea with honey, or fresh fruits, as these all contain a lesser amount of sugar and calories. 

KEEP A HEALTHY ROUTINE

Maintaining a healthy routine is more than just eating the right food. Sleeping well, raising the heartbeat regularly through exercise or simply walking, and doing things that reduce your stress are all essential in losing weight.  

Poor sleeping patterns, in particular, disrupt your body’s hormones, including the ones affecting your metabolism. When you feel stressed, you don’t sleep well and run the risk of developing insomnia. No one wants that. To reduce stress, you can do light exercise or physical activities like yoga, walking, or spending 15 minutes doing low-intensity workouts.

Though it needn’t necessarily mean a heavy sweating session at the gym, exercise is important and adults should do some type of physical activity every day; in the words of the NHS ‘any activity is better than none, and more is better still’.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Of course, exercise still plays a pivotal role in weight loss, but for those who have never taken well to working, or can’t put in a shift at the gym due to injury of mobility, there are, fortunately, still ways to lose weight. 

WHY IS MY WATER BILL HIGHER THAN NORMAL?

Editorial Team
-
0
WHY IS MY WATER BILL HIGHER THAN NORMAL?

8 reasons your water bill could be steeper than usual.

Looking over your water bill and noticing it is higher than usual can come as a bit of a shock. Suddenly, you’re questioning whether that second bath of the day two months ago was really necessary. You’re left doubting your toilet flushing methods. And you’re calling into question whether your house is one massive leak.

However, try not to panic. As this blog on detecting leaks explains, the cause is often straightforward. You’ve been flushing just fine. Go on, run yourself that bath; you deserve it. Joking aside, if you’re wondering why your water bill is higher than normal and aren’t sure whether you should be contacting your water company, then here are 8 reasons your water bill could be steeper than usual.

YOUR LAST READING WAS AN ESTIMATE 

If the previous reading you provided was an estimate, then chances are that your next bill will be higher than you might normally expect it to be. Should you have just moved into a new property and you’ve thus far failed to provide a meter reading at the beginning, be sure to provide one to the water company as soon as you can.  

NOT CHECKING AVERAGE DAILY USE

Taking averaged, regular readings is better than a yearly, cursory check, as it gives you early warning if there’s a sudden increase in your water usage. In other words, if there’s a leak, which could be costing you money and wasting valuable water, you’ll notice far quicker should you be monitoring unexplained fluctuations in your readings. 

YOU’VE PROVIDED AN INCORRECT BILLING PERIOD 

Have you moved into your home in the last year and either had a meter fitted or provided a reading at that time, on the moving in date? If you haven’t, it could be that the period covered by your bill is shorter or longer than previously. To confirm your billing period is correct, check the front page of your bill and inform your water provider should it be incorrect.

A BUSY HOUSEHOLD

If more people have joined your household, your bill will naturally increase as you’ll be using more water. One person uses, on average, 142 litres of water a day. If you’d like to use less water, consider installing a water-saving product, such as a faucet attachment, which can significantly reduce excess water wastage.

Other green-conscious practices about the home, like switching your washes from 40 degrees to 30, not leaving the tap running when you brush your teeth, and showering for shorter, can all add up to savings, too.

YOU LIVE IN A HARD WATER AREA

As you may know, hard water refers to water that contains higher levels of magnesium and calcium carbonates. But what people might not know is that hard water can actually raise your water bill, leading to more water being needed to properly clean clothes, wash dishes, bathe, shower and more.

This can be exacerbated by hard water’s tendency to decrease water flow in pipes, sometimes leading to plumbing issues and expensive interventions. One way to lessen this blow is to consider water softener installation, which can be a smart solution to prevent hard water.

BE ALERT TO LEAKS

A leak in any part of your system can result in a higher meter reading or bill. A dripping tap alone can waste as much as 21 litres of water a day; crikey! If you think you’ve sprung a leak, there are a couple of things you can check before having to call in a plumber. Do read our article on 5 common lockdown plumbing problems and how to fix them before you do decide to use the services of a professional.

WATERING PLANTS

If you have a large garden and water it frequently over spring and summer, this can result in a higher water bill. Consider using rainwater instead by using a water butt, an alternative to filling your watering can with your outdoor tap. It’s also sensible to avoid using a hose where possible, as they lack precision and are generally considered wasteful.

A NEW APPLIANCE

If you’ve recently had a new boiler installed, your bills might be higher than before. In fact, the task of emptying and refilling the system uses a fair amount of water. Remember, new appliances tend to use more water than older ones, particularly if their capacity is larger. That said, their energy efficiency is almost always better, so don’t let the added units on the water bill put you off buying a new boiler.

HOME RENOVATION

If you’ve recently had work done to your property, you might have experienced a higher water bill. Do be aware that this is only temporary. In particular, plastering or painting is notorious for requiring a large amount of water, not to mention the clean up afterwards! Similarly, building work, landscaping, or having a new lawn put down can result in a higher bill.

THE BOTTOM LINE

If the sound of the postman and the sight of a bill on the hallway floor is enough to give you a panic attack, it might be time to start considering ways to reduce how much you pay for everything. Here’s 4 IDEAL ways to get smaller bills and transform your finances. 

6 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING HIRED

Editorial Team
-
0
6 WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING HIRED

Ideal for those looking for a career change in turbulent times.

With news that unemployment is on the rise, particularly among the young, it’s certainly not an understatement to say that looking for work right now can be a time-consuming and disheartening task.

If you’re facing rejection time and time again, you might start to wonder if you’re doing something wrong. In fact, there are many reasons that employers choose to hire certain candidates over others. If it comes down to a matter of experience, the only thing you can do is focus on getting more relevant experience on your CV.  

But if it’s something else that is holding you back, there may be something you can do about it. With that in mind, here are 6 ways to improve your chances of getting hired, IDEAL for those looking for a career change in turbulent times.

GET FEEDBACK ON YOUR CV

A CV is a vital part of the job application process. It’s the first thing that an employer sees, and first impressions count. It’s also an element which in the modern world is so often neglected; a surefire way to leave a candidate on the backfoot from the off. 

It’s important, then, to get the tone and pitch right. Unfortunately, it isn’t always easy to know what is best to include in a CV. Sometimes, we can overload it with too much information that employers don’t care about, or we can include information which doesn’t sell ourselves as the ideal candidate.

Your CV is essential for getting a foot in the door, so if you’re selling yourself short on this important document, you aren’t doing yourself any favours. Ask a friend or trusted colleague for feedback on your CV to find out if you’re missing any important points; we’ve all written one, and some of us have had more success than others.

TAILOR YOUR APPLICATION TO THE ROLE

Though it might take a little bit longer, you should get in the habit of tailoring your application to the role, personalising each and every CV you send out to suit the demands of the job you’re applying for. It might mean you submit fewer applications in the same amount of time, but if these applications are more successful, it’s worth the effort.

It’s hard to blow your own trumpet and make sure you’re selling your best attributes to potential employers, so make sure you’re giving yourself the best possible chance of success. If you’re working with a recruitment consultant, they will be able to help you refine your CV for success. See this guide for more on doing just that.

You can use the same basic CV as a starting point and then tailor the key sectors like your personal statement to the role. Look at the job description to determine the areas you need to focus on.

And sure, it sounds a bit strange to advertise yourself, particularly when interviews are now defined as being a two way process, but in all honesty, that’s what the whole job-seeking process in 2020 is about. Putting your best foot forward, showing your best side…you get the picture. Now paint it. 

When listing your key skills and values, go through the job description of the role you’re applying for and highlight what they want. Make sure you add these into your key skills and core competencies section. Try and give examples to show how you fit the role so they’re assured that you actually live by these values and skills, and not just say you do.

ASK FOR FEEDBACK

If you’re making it to the interview stage and then getting knocked back, firstly, check out our 5 IDEAL tips on what not to do in the interview process. Here, we give pointers on turning up just the right level of prepared, on not pretending to be perfect, on body language, punctuality, and which questions are right (and wrong) to ask in those early stages. Do have a look, once you’ve got to the end of this article, of course! 

Should interview success still not be coming naturally, it’s perfectly acceptable to ask for feedback from those who conducted the Q&A. Many employers will be happy to give you some pointers that will help you to work on your performance for the next interview.

Practicing your interviewing skills with a friend or family member can help you to perform better under pressure, making those quick quips and conscientious responses second nature over time. Your answers will be more relaxed and you’ll be able to focus on impressing the person in front of you.

DIVERSIFY YOUR SKILLSET 

If you’re missing key skills on your CV, think about getting some extra training, not just to tick boxes and fill spaces on paper, but to bolster your genuine, bonafide potential as a candidate, too. Key skills like word processing, dexterity with spreadsheets, coding and collaboration tools are invaluable in so many roles.

Excel courses are widely available and offer a great way to demonstrate your aptitude. In addition, a good grasp of the blockchain, decentralised finance and smart contract syntax will help you gain access to a whole host of Web 3 jobs. Make sure you gain certification from a recognised organisation to help your application stand out.

Also think about demonstrating and nurturing your collection of soft skills, via voluntary ‘off the clock’ networking, and by taking courses in time management and conflict resolution, for instance. Even if you already have these skills, gaining certification will help to reassure employers of what concrete improvements you can bring to the team.

DON’T DISMISS A STOPGAP ROLE

It’s an annoying fact that it’s easier to find work when you’re in work. Employers tend to prefer someone who is already engaged in a role, even if it’s just a stopgap position. This added financial security can also remove some of the pressure faced when looking for work, preventing you from making decisions out of desperation.

When you walk into an interview thinking about your financial obligations and feeling like you “need” to land a role, it can warp your perception and cause you to sell yourself short. On the flip side, being in even a part-time role can help to take away some of this pressure and allow you to focus on the task at hand.

MINDSET RESET

Getting frustrated with your job hunt will reflect poorly in your interview performance, make no mistake. Even if successes seem hard to come by, it’s important to dust yourself down, and approach each day as a new opportunity, wiping the slate clean after each failed interview. 

Every time you don’t get a job, use it as a learning opportunity to figure out what you can do better next time, via feedback, further practice and self evaluation. Maintaining this type of positive mindset will help you to succeed, through both preparation and perseverance. Good luck!


And should you have been successful in your interview after this advice, do check out our 4 IDEAL ways to find job satisfaction to help restore a little balance in your life following such a stressful job search.

5 QUIRKY HERTFORDSHIRE WEDDING VENUES

Editorial Team
-
0
5 QUIRKY HERTFORDSHIRE WEDDING VENUES

Ideal for non-traditional couples looking to inject some fun into their big day.

The English home country of Hertfordshire is consistently named as one of the best places to live in the UK, and it’s easy to see why. With a healthy population, two international airports, plenty of culture and a world famous cathedral, it’s an appealing place to spend time, that’s for sure. 

What’s more, the county boasts England’s first two garden cities, Letchworth and Welwyn, and it’s this dedication to greenery which makes Herforshire so charming. With a large amount of land in Hertfordshire used for agriculture and devoted to green spaces, and those fantastic transport links we already mentioned in place, the county will be simply perfect for hosting your wedding. With that in mind, here are 5 quirky Hertfordshire wedding venues, IDEAL for non-traditional couples looking to inject some fun into their big day.

HENRY MOORE STUDIOS AND GARDENS 

This seventy acre estate is filled with the iconic sculptures of Henry Moore, so you won’t be short of an amazing photo opportunity or two if you choose to host your big day here. Be warned that the Henry Moore Studios and Gardens only holds a limited number of weddings per year, but it’s certainly worth it if you can get in!

You can choose to host your whole wedding day or just the ceremony in either the Aisled Barn or the Dane Tree House. The barn is a larger 16th century space with exposed wooden beams, while the Dane Tree House is smaller and offers panoramic views of the grounds.

You can also choose to put up a tipi or marquee in the grounds if you want to celebrate outside. And trust us, you do want to host things al fresco; weather permitting, of course!

THE LOFT

The Loft in St Albans is perfect for a smaller wedding reception, as it only holds up to fifty guests; intimate as you like and all the better for it, we think! It sits in close proximity to the town’s civil ceremony venues and a host of churches, and it’s positively brimming with exposed beams, ideal for that quaint, rural aesthetic us Brits love.

Their food has received incredibly positive reviews too, so you know that you and your guests will be well-fed. What’s more, they also have a cosy loft bar which is great for photo opportunities, or for you and your new spouse to sneak off for some much needed alone time on the day.

THE GATE

The Gate, in the picturesque town of Chorleywood, is a pub and restaurant, making it perfect if you’re looking to have a wedding that’s not too traditional but still gives a nod to the set and setting of a British countryside affair. Do be aware that you can’t get legally married here, but you can have a blessing there with all of your family and friends watching. What’s more, the Gate has both an indoor and outdoor bar, and they’ll run a barbeque for you, too, so you can have the perfect relaxed day. 

What’s more, Chorleywood has a train station, and the Gate itself has plenty of parking, making everything as convenient as can be for guests. Sounds like the ideal day to us!

HOME FARM

Home Farm doesn’t heavily market itself as a wedding venue, but you could easily have the perfect festival style wedding here if you just set your imagination to it!

Get a marquee up, plant some hand written signs a la Glasto, get in touch with Alive Network to secure yourself a band, and you’re halfway there! The glamping facilities provided at Home Farm are seriously beautiful, and the toilets are proper cabins so you won’t be spending your special day trying not to dip your dress in a long drop. For the couple who have made happy memories in front of the Pyramid Stage or on the hallowed grass of Richfield Avenue, Home Farm is the ideal place to recreate the nostalgia of your past.

BROOK FARM

Another farm to finish with, and another gorgeous outdoor space, Brook Farm, just a couple of miles from historic Ludlow, can be customised in pretty much any way you choose. You could get a glamorous marquee, or opt for something a little more ‘flower child’ feeling with tipis and bales of hay. For those brides-to-be’s looking for alternative wedding dress ideas to match the occasion, check out our article on just that here!

If guests don’t fancy sleeping out under the stars (or the nylon), then Brook Farm has bed and breakfast facilities. There’s also onsite parking and restaurant facilities available; the rest writes itself, don’t you think?

UK STAYCATION TIPS: 5 WAYS TO SAVE MONEY ON UK TRAVEL

Travel Team
-
0
UK STAYCATION TIPS: 5 WAYS TO SAVE MONEY ON UK TRAVEL

The majority of UK flights are grounded. Conversely, our travel plans are up in the air. We’re quarantined, hesitant and in desperate need of a holiday fix, fixed in the calendar, all at once. A UK staycation, then, is the answer, providing the certainty and security you need from your trip, providing you manage to understand the latest guidelines, that is.

Don’t let the current lockdown limbo put you off having a Government sanctioned adventure. Though you may have heard horror stories about a train journey to Newcastle costing more than a flight to Tokyo (we’re only slightly exaggerating with that one) with a little nous and some seriously savvy planning, a trip to appreciate all that the UK has to offer is within both reach and budget. With that in mind, here are some UK staycation tips; our 5 ways to save money on UK travel.

RAILCARDS 

There’s something rather liberating about leaving the car at home and taking the train. But trains are notoriously expensive in the UK, and the cost is rising, so you’d be wise to look at ways to bring the cost of tickets down if this is your chosen method of transport. 

Fortunately, some train services provide the option of family tickets or discounts for children. And if your children are under the age of five, don’t forget that they can travel for free on the trains, while children between the age of 5 and 15 will save up to 50% on ticket prices. 

There are also railcards available if you’re going to make a habit of train travel in the future, which significantly reduce ticket costs. If you’re a couple heading for a holiday, a two together railcard can save you a third off your train tickets. Over 60s can also save a third with a Seniors Railcard. And on top of the reduction on kid’s fares we already mentioned, a Family & Friends Railcard will grant a further 60% off, with a maximum of 4 adults and 4 children able to travel on one card. Do remember that, for now, the group travelling shouldn’t exceed six.  

BOOK IN ADVANCE, GO OFF PEAK

The difference between peak and off peak travel pricing is out of control. What’s even more surprising is that so many aren’t aware of the savings to be made simply by travelling at certain times. Indeed, according to Trainline, by booking in advance you’ll save an average of 61% on your tickets.

In general, train travel from city to city is considered ‘off peak’ between 9:30am and 4:30pm, and after 7pm, Monday to Friday. You can make further savings by travelling in the ‘super off peak’ time slot of between 10am and 3pm, and after 7:15pm, Monday to Friday. Both these discounts apply for weekends, too. Right now, this is the most COVID-safe way to travel, too, as these are the least busy times. If you’re flexible with your schedule, this is the perfect way to save money on travel, and the good news; in the UK’s major cities, travelcards bought with off peak discounts also apply to buses, trams and other forms of public transport.

COUPONS & CASHBACK SITES 

There are also various reputable cashback coupon sites out there which can significantly help reduce your travel costs, if only you take the time to fill in a few numbers online. With a valid Expedia discount code on website Widilo, for instance, you can gain access to a huge variety of offers, including 50% off London apartments, 20% off stays in York when you book in advance, 40% off places in Eastbourne and many more. 

Alternatively, you can pay with points accrued on various loyalty cards. Schemes run by certain supermarkets or big brands enable you to gain points every time you make a purchase, and these points can be saved up over a period of time and put them towards your travel fees, such as a train or plane journey. 

ON YOUR BIKE 

Hey, a ‘trip’ or ‘travel’ doesn’t necessarily need to mean the accumulation of serious hours and miles on the road, and footprints of the carbon variety. Instead, why not consider travel on two wheels for your next staycation, cycling to your destination and using biking expeditions as the framework for your trip. Doing so will save money, reduce your impact on the environment, and provide you with a great opportunity to appreciate the Great British countryside. We couldn’t imagine anything better, just remember to travel light!

CARPOOL 

While taking the train, coach or bus is far more sustainable for long distance travel in the UK, if your heart really is set on car travel – for convenience or health reasons – then why not consider sharing the journey? 

A more affordable (not to mention sustainable) way to travel on four wheels could see you sharing the journey with a likeminded person or couple also keen on a holiday, preferably from your support bubble to mitigate risk. Blabla Car, Uber, Faxi and Lift Share are just some of the apps out there right now facilitating car pooling and money saving, too.

4 IMPORTANT VITAMINS TO GIVE YOUR PETS AND WHY THEY SHOULD TAKE THEM

Editorial Team
-
0
4 IMPORTANT VITAMINS TO GIVE YOUR PETS AND WHY THEY SHOULD TAKE THEM

Ideal for animal lovers looking to provide the best care possible.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” said the renowned writer, political thinker, and scientist, Benjamin Franklin. And after a cursory Google search to check that an ounce is, indeed, lighter than a pound, we can use these wise words going forward when considering not only the health of humans, but also of our beloved pets.

Today, we’re using the lessons encapsulated within this message in the name of proper pet health. Preventing issues with your animal companion’s wellbeing all starts with a daily dose of the right vitamins, we think. With that in mind, here are 4 important vitamins to give your pets and why they should take them, IDEAL for animal lovers looking to provide the best care possible.

1. B VITAMINS

B vitamins are the building blocks of your pet’s continued, sustainable wellbeing. Vitamins B-1 through B-7, along with B-9 and B-12, promote numerous health benefits to animals and should be a part of your pet’s diet. 

In particular, a dog needs these vitamins for various reasons. Here’s a quick overview of some of the B vitamins and why you should give them to your furry, four-legged friend:

  • Thiamine: Helps to regulate carbohydrate and energy metabolism. 
  • Vitamin B-12: Also called riboflavin, B-12 helps facilitate the dog’s normal enzyme function. 
  • Vitamin B-6: This vitamin is responsible for glucose (sugar) generation. It’s also accountable for other physiological functions, including hormone regulation, immune system response, and red blood cell roles. 
  • Vitamin B-5: Also called pantothenic acid, this vitamin helps maintain normal energy metabolism in your pup’s body. 
  • Vitamin B-9: B-9, or folic acid, helps in amino acid and nucleotide metabolism. 

Although B vitamins are essential to a pet’s health, it can be difficult to regulate the correct amounts for your animal companion. According to the Pet Honesty blog post, incorrect vitamin B administration may lead to discomfort or even an adverse reaction. Therefore, it’s absolutely essential that you consult your veterinarian first to find out the optimum amounts of B vitamins for your pet. 

The good news is that dogs fed a diet rich in meat, fish, and offal, or a good commercial product, get plenty of vitamin B from their food. As the experts over ay Lively Paws points out ” A dog bouncing with good health that produces normal poop does not need a vitamin B supplement. These fur friends get everything they need from food (with a helping paw from friendly gut bacteria, which makes small amounts of B vitamins). But there are some dogs that will benefit from a B vitamin supplement”.

2. VITAMIN A

Vitamin A plays a vital role in supporting the development, quality of life, and wellbeing of different animal species. The absence or lack of this vitamin in an animal’s daily diet may lead to illness, and failure to rectify this deficiency can lead to serious complications. 

On the flip side, provide ample amounts of vitamin A to your pet, and this nutrient may help improve different physiological components in animals. Administer the correct amounts of this vitamin and you’ll help maintain the animal’s vision, inflammation response, and immune system functions, particularly. 

It should be noted that cats and dogs, although the most common type of pets, aren’t the only domestic animals needing vitamin A in their daily diet. Other animals, such as chickens, also need this nutriment. 

Consider using the correct feed to deliver sufficient amounts of vitamin A to your pet chickens. This vitamin helps normalise the birds’ mucus-producing glands, like those in the eyelids, nose, and oesophagus. 

You’ll know if your pet chickens are vitamin A deficient if you see certain symptoms, including:

  • Difficulty in swallowing food
  • Accumulation of a ‘cheesy’ or ‘crusty’ material in the eyelids and nostrils
  • Organ failure
  • Drop in egg production for hens
  • Drop in egg hatchability

Aside from feeding your chickens with vitamin A-enriched feed, you may also use organic, natural vehicles to help provide the required amount of this nutrient to the birds, in the form of their diet. Leafy greens, including spinach, arugula, and endive, are rich in this vitamin; consider adding them to your bird’s feed.  

3. VITAMIN C

Also called ascorbic acid, vitamin C plays a vital role in wound healing, collagen production, and dopamine creation, to name but a few benefits. It is important, however, to note that some animal species require more of this nutrient than others. 

One creature that comes to mind is the guinea pig. Vitamin C for guinea pigs is vital as these relatively small pets tend to be susceptible to scurvy, an illness caused by vitamin C deficiency. This health concern may also lead to other issues, like anaemia, fatigue, and bleeding, if left untreated. 

As a general rule, feed guinea pigs between 10 and 30 mg of vitamin A per day. However, nursing, pregnant, and sick guinea pigs may need more than those amounts. Again, it’s also sensible to consult with a vet prior to making big changes to your pet’s diet.

You can find various guinea pig pellets on the market that are rich in vitamin C. However, the components of this nutriment tend to be unstable, and may degrade over extended periods. Proper storage helps prevent this vitamin’s quick deterioration. Therefore, always remember to place the pellets in cool, dark places to preserve this nutriment’s efficacy. 

4. VITAMIN D

Vitamin D is an essential nutrient for several animal species, including cats and dogs. This nutrient helps regulate your pet’s calcium and phosphorus retention, with calcium helping to maintain strong bones whereas phosphorus is vital for protein synthesis. 

Do be aware that unlike other vitamins, it’s fairly simple to give your animal companions sufficient amounts of vitamin D naturally via sunlight exposure.

However, there are times when getting outside might not be feasible, or, your pet might not enjoy sufficient sunlight exposure. Perhaps you and your pet need to stay indoors for extended periods (a bit of a theme of 2020, hey?) or your animal recently came back from being cooped up in a veterinary clinic for days? Nonetheless, you can supplement the animal’s lack of vitamin D by providing supplements or making certain dietary decisions:

Some foods that tend to be vitamin-rich are:

  • Fish
  • Meat
  • Egg
  • Cheese and other dairy products

However, providing too much vitamin D can cause adverse reactions in pets. Some of the symptoms you need to check for are lack of appetite, increased urination, and significant weight loss in short periods. 

Don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you see these signs. The animal expert can evaluate these symptoms and provide the correct advice for solutions moving forward. In such situations, don’t attempt to offer drugs for vitamin D deficiency to your pet if you don’t have enough knowledge about providing correct animal treatments; you run the risk of further complicating the issue.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Vitamins A, C, and D are essential nutrients for different animal species, with B vitamins particularly important for dogs. Do remember to always consult a veterinarian if you’re unsure how to administer the correct dose of these vitamins to reduce potential side effects. 

5 STEPS TO STAYING STRONG & HEALTHY DURING TURBULENT TIMES

Editorial Team
-
0
5 STEPS TO STAYING STRONG & HEALTHY DURING TURBULENT TIMES

Call it what you like; unprecedented, turbulent, topsy turvy or uncertain….there’s a theme running through 2020 and it’s not one of stability and confidence, that’s for sure. And whilst we wouldn’t want to cast a shadow of doom and gloom over the coming months further, as winter approaches, things look like they might be getting worse, not better.

If only there was a way to put yourself on the front foot, mentally and physically, for what lies ahead. To ensure that you’re strong and stable in the coming months, here are 5 steps to staying strong and healthy during turbulent times.

THE VALUE OF BEING A MORNING PERSON

Sure, catching the worm early doors isn’t for everyone. But during lockdown, working from home, self isolation and the rest, here at IDEAL we’ve really tuned in to the positive lifestyle benefits of an early rise lately.

It’s all about hacking that circadian rhythm, via taking measures for more restorative, rhythmic sleep, so waking up bright eyed and bushy tailed becomes a thrill, not a chore. Once waking up refreshed becomes routine, you can attack each day with a fresh sense of purpose and vigour; ideal for these uncertain times when the urge to roll over and sleep all day is sometimes too strong to fight. 

Use that extra hour in the morning to exercise, meditate, do yoga or complete a gratitude diary; all things which over time can have a marked impact on your mental and physical wellbeing. If this sounds like your sort of thing, check out our advice on 8 expert-approved ways to become a morning person for more!

TAKE A MOMENT TO PROCESS

Working from home, with a laptop on in front of you and a TV on behind, always updating and demanding your attention, bearing bad news upon bad of the most recent developments….well, it can be really tough to take a moment to comprehend what’s going on.

Nevertheless, it’s crucial that you do take a moment to check in with yourself and process recent events. Don’t let anxiety, stress and uncertainty bubble beneath the surface, ready to explode at any moment. Such feelings are generally unconscious, but if not ignored, may worsen into bigger issues.

Instead, try to take proactive steps to take stock of the turbulent situation we find ourselves in. A regular practice of mindful meditation can help you do just that; only ten minutes a day can do wonders in realigning your perspective. If you’re new to the wonderful world of ‘taking a moment’, there are plenty of apps offering guided meditations and mindfulness exercises for a monthly fee.

If meditation doesn’t work for you, do still make the time just to sit still for a few minutes each day, enabling space for reflection on what is, for everyone, a really confusing time.

KEEP THOSE VICES IN CHECK

Vibes and vices; there’s only one letter between them but a gaping chasm in their effect on your health. Embracing the healthy, holistic good vibes we’ve been talking about can sometimes be a struggle to maintain every day, but you’ll make things infinitely harder for yourself if you let your vices get the better of you. 

Recent news reports in the UK have warned that the number of ’high risk drinkers has doubled since lockdown’’, and it’s been all too easy to succumb to that extra glass or two in the evenings, or that lunchtime pint you usually turn down, when every around you feels so fraught.

Do be mindful if you feel yourself slipping into a negative behavioural pattern surrounding drinking, smoking gambling and the rest. Employ proactive measures; take yourself for a walk if you feel the onset of a drinking trigger; swap cigarettes for gum as per NHS advice on giving up smoking; and activate strict limits on any betting you might be engaging in, via features provided by any responsible gambling platform. Though it’s tempting during this turbulent time to seek solace in your vices, it may only make matters worse in the long run.

HOME GYM HAVEN

The arrival of longer, darker nights and colder temperatures also seems to herald a life more sedentary until Spring rolls around. But parking yourself on the sofa and hibernating isn’t sensible any time, but particularly when it’s particularly important to keep your immune system fighting fit.

Even if you’re not keen on returning to the gym, or if yours hasn’t yet opened again, you can still get the blood pumping at home with some cardio and aerobic exercise, such as star jumps or running on the spot. It’s basic, we know, but these are unprecedented times. You may have heard.

Go further and kit out your home with some simple gym equipment. So, even if the weather is inclement and obstructive to an outdoor workout, you can still get a sweat on, all from the comfort of your living room.

A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO DIETING

Colder days and insecure times…who can blame a person for turning to comfort food to nourish the soul? While there’s certainly no harm in the odd takeaway and Netflix binge from time to time, as Autumn and Winter roll around it would be wise to maintain a healthy, varied diet to keep any seasonal ailments at bay.

Take inspiration from the changing state of the land and you might find a little comfort in the less hospitable months ahead. This month sees the arrival of some heartier, darker fruit and vegetables, just ripe for embracing into your diet. Plums, Bramley apples, figs, apricots and pears are all coming into season and are super healthy as part of a balanced meal plan. Vegetables at their peak in early Autumn include butternut squash, celeriac, kale, leeks, pumpkin and more. 

Do remember, though, that this is a really challenging time for everyone, and don’t deny yourself the odd treat. You’re getting by in a global pandemic, and you deserve it! Instead, try to adopt a mindful, sustainable approach to your diet, and you can enjoy the food which gives you pleasure in the healthiest way possible. We’ll see you on the other side!

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

Budgeting For Christmas: 5 Money Saving Tips For Autumn

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
Budgeting For Christmas: 5 Money Saving Tips For Autumn

Autumn is traditionally a time of abstinence and asceticism, taking stock after a heavy summer of sunshine and celebration and readying the wallet for the excesses of Christmas spending.

This year, with concerns over the cost of living rising, seasonal saving could be taking greater precedence than in previous years. If you’re budgeting for Christmas, then here are 5 money saving tips for autumn.

Meal Planning

We’ve all been there after a long day in the office, uninspired to cook and reaching for the Deliveroo app, particularly as the nights draw in and the weather gets a little gloomier.

But cutting back on the sometimes flippant food expenditure of takeaways and ready meals can have a major impact on your outgoings every month, and one which you’ll notice almost immediately. 

Getting busy in the kitchen is one sure-fire way to save money. Bulk buying fresh or even frozen vegetables and meat – cheaper, of course, than single items – allows you to cook larger batches of whatever takes your fancy, saving money on lunch and dinner further down the week. Meal plans are a great way to get everything documented and organised, meaning you’ll save time as well as money. Result!

Read: 7 IDEAL tips and ideas for budget meal planning

There are ways to shop smarter, too. Branded products, for instance, although almost identical in content, are often considerably more expensive, so bear that in mind when doing your (much recommended) weekly shop. Speaking of which…

Early Festive Shopping

Hey, let’s mention this before anyone else does; we’re not encouraging Christmas panic buying, here. Rather, some sensible foresight in the shopping department could help you budget a little easier when the festive season rolls around.

Let’s be honest, one of the biggest expenses over Christmas is the booze. Fortunately, supermarkets like Lidl, Aldi and Asda offer perfectly drinkable own brand Prosecco at a fraction of the price of other high street supermarkets. 

You can also save on the food shopping by stocking up now (within reason and with no sense of ‘panic’, of course), freezing items like canapes, veggies and even the turkey, in anticipation of Christmas day and dinner. Whilst everyone is rushing around like headless, erm, chickens on Christmas Eve looking to stock up, you might even allow yourself a smug smile. More importantly, you’ll have saved some money.

Review Your Depts

Autumn, with its focus on the thrifty, is arguably the best time to review your debts, loan and credit card obligations, any outstanding overdrafts, and reconsider your repayment plans. 

For some, debt consolidation loans represent a worthwhile avenue to explore if payments are spread far and wide, and things feel like they’re getting out of hand. To get a loan approved, it’s recommended that you first work on your credit score.

Read: The ideal guide to getting to grips with your credit score

Check Your Insurance Rates

As you move close to the year-end, your insurance renewals will probably be around. While you cannot skimp on home, auto, and health insurance, it is possible to reduce the expense. Check your options when renewing because you can find better deals. Consider bundling up insurance from one provider for better deals. Just a little shopping can help you make significant savings. If the process feels overwhelming, platforms like BetterHelp Services can provide guidance to ease the stress.

Speaking of which, changing car insurance provider is just one way you can reduce your transport costs in the coming months. Check out our guide on doing just that here.

Streamline Your Social Life Spending

Though Autumn is traditionally a season that sees many choosing to hibernate until the festive season rolls around, this shouldn’t mean that your social life dwindles to nothing. 

Countless studies have pointed to the health benefits of friendships, so don’t neglect this side of things just because you’re planning on leading a more thrifty life for the next few months.

In fact, there are ways you can enjoy a social life on a budget. Which reminds us; you might find this article useful, too.

HOW TO LIVE COMFORTABLY WITH A MORTGAGE: 5 IDEAL TIPS

Editorial Team
-
0
HOW TO LIVE COMFORTABLY WITH A MORTGAGE: 5 IDEAL TIPS

Is living comfortably while you have a mortgage possible? Of course it is, but since it involves taking on a huge amount of debt, changes elsewhere are usually necessary to pay it off and still live responsibly and sustainably. 

Now, this doesn’t mean a lifetime of asceticism and abstinence awaits. Homeowners with mortgages to repay can still enjoy a rich and colourful day-to-day, but it does pay to be more mindful of your spending in such instances. By taking your mortgage into account when drawing up your daily, weekly and monthly budgeting going forward, being prudent with your outgoings and realistic with your home purchase and renovations, you can enjoy a fruitful life in your new property. With that in mind, here’s 5 IDEAL tips on how to live comfortably with a mortgage.

YOU SHOULDN’T USE THE TOTAL AMOUNT YOU’VE BEEN OFFERED

Before you take on a mortgage, be mindful not to accept the highest amount you have been offered as a matter of course. Though this is based on what you earn and can plausibly afford, be aware that it’s what the lender has deemed to be the absolute most. Just because the maximum is offered doesn’t mean it’s necessarily the most feasible figure for you to pay off readily. 

No doubt you’ll need to scrimp, save, and struggle if you take out a mortgage at the absolute maximum of what you can afford, so instead, only accept a mortgage that’s affordable; to understand what’s affordable you’ll need to do the maths… 

FIGURE OUT A BUDGET THAT SUITS YOUR LIFESTYLE

Now it’s time to figure out a budget that suits your lifestyle, with pragmatism and practicality at the forefront of your thinking. A mortgage is one of life’s most serious undertakings, and a responsibility which needs thorough foresight before signing on the dotted line. 

To get the tight grip of your finances required for a healthy relationship with your mortgage, it should be your first step to carefully construct a monthly budget and do a regular audit of your finances. This starts with a calculation of your incomings and outgoings and then looking for areas where you can cut out any non-essential expenses. 

Experts recommend that in a healthy budget, your mortgage should account for 28% of your gross income (the money you earn), with 35% an absolute maximum before things get difficult to handle.

ACCOUNT FOR THE SMALLER FEES AND BILLS

Though that ballpark figure simply considers gross income, it’s actually prudent to also take into account all of the smaller fees and bills in your budget when buying a home. 

Alongside utilising a mortgage calculator, make sure you consider legal fees, survey fees, moving costs and any other outgoings that you’ll need to pay out. In some cases you may be able to include these fees within your mortgage, but it’s often better to pay them off beforehand, in one lump sum if you can afford it feasibly, and keep your mortgage repayment plan clear and, ultimately, down. 

AN EMERGENCY FUND COULD KEEP YOU OUT OF DEBT 

Though we’d hope it never came to this, having an emergency fund ready saved and triple locked for urgent instances could serve to keep you out of debt in the long run. Making sure you can put money away each week or month will cover you whether you have to deal with a car repair, broken appliance, or medical emergency; as in, any sudden payments which could impact your ability to repay your mortgage. 

Without this money backing you up, you may end up taking out a credit card or payday loan and end up in even more debt. Don’t be afraid to seek help from a financial advisor if you need help sorting out your finances and making sure you’re going to be able to stay out of debt and live comfortably. Do check out our article on how to future-proof your post-COVID finances for up to date advice on the subject, too.

DON’T BUY A BIGGER HOUSE THAN YOU NEED 

It may be tempting to buy a house which is larger than your means allow, but if you’re buying a bigger house than you really need, you may run into trouble, and not just over the initial outlay involved. 

A bigger house is more difficult and expensive to maintain, and the bills will be higher. You’ll probably also feel obligated to fill it with more stuff as you have more space to play with. Of course, if you have a big family then a sense of spaciousness is welcome, but if you’ve had children escaping the nest recently, then perhaps you could consider downsizing if at all possible.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Living comfortably with a mortgage is eminently possible providing you don’t take out more than you can afford and stick to a sustainable, responsible budget. Once you’re all settled in your new home, could we pop round for a tour?

THE IMPORTANCE OF WELLNESS: 5 STEPS TO SELF CARE IN 2020 & BEYOND

Editorial Team
-
0
THE IMPORTANCE OF WELLNESS: 5 STEPS TO SELF CARE IN 2020 & BEYOND

Ideal for tackling the future with confidence.

2020’s enforced solitude has been a wake up call for so many. Where once successes and failures were scrutinised with a fine comb, now, surviving is thriving, when you consider the topsy turvy nature of this most turbulent of years. Just nine months in, and this new decade has already thrown so much at us; you deserve a pat on the back and nice sit down just for getting this far.

Whilst you’re enjoying those moments of peace on the sofa, we’d like to call your attention to the importance of wellness. Keeping fit, healthy and composed is a process and a journey, not a destination, and should be given attention each and every day. Show yourself compassion, love and understanding, with these 5 steps to self care in 2020 & beyond. 

INVEST IN ACTIVITIES THAT BRING PLEASURE & PEACE

Several months of lockdown have taken their toll on our sense of purpose. Being cooped up indoors has led to an acute sense of ‘should be doing more’. Banana bread, sourdough and watching Tiger King simply can’t fill that gaping chasm, that sense that we’ve been sitting idle not making the most of our time. 

It’s best to remember that this is, as we’re constantly told, an unprecedented time, and there’s no guidebook for surviving a global pandemic. Embrace the joy of doing very little, if that’s what brings you comfort. You don’t always have to be ‘doing something’ and on the go. Take pleasure in the simple activities that bring you peace like reading the morning paper or enjoying your first coffee of the day without the glare of screens, and be grateful you’ve made it this far. Whilst last year’s ‘self care’ was all about growth and goals, 2020’s is about simply ‘being’. 

CONNECT WITH YOUR FRIENDS & FAMILY

As humans, we have a fundamental need to connect with other humans. Indeed, social engagement is said to do wonders for the immune system, decrease depression, help you live longer, and may even lower your risk of developing dementia.

Yet, even though these benefits are so widely known, so many of us are making less effort than ever to see family and friends. Social media certainly doesn’t help; those shared memes and occasional baby pics give the illusion of social interaction, but nothing can beat quality time spent in the flesh.

Make the most of family and friends and get some quality time together in the calendar. Now more than ever, an indulgent weekend away or meal at a fancy restaurant should come guilt free. So go ahead; research spa breaks in Yorkshire for some much needed self-pampering, google Michelin starred gastropubs in London for an indulgent meal, buy tickets for that theme park trip you’ve all been dreaming of. Never has quality time with loved ones been more important.

COOK MORE

This just in; we are now cooking more meals from scratch than when lockdown began. Indeed, as a nation, it seems like we’ve really discovered the joys of home cooking recently. And this is a trend we hope continues, not just for our physical health but also our mental well-being.

When we take a keener interest in cooking, we start thinking about the things that go into our body and where our food comes from. Shopping for groceries begins to give us a more implicit understanding of the seasons and local produce, and as a consequence, a more nuanced reading of the passing of time itself. Shopping, cooking and eating more mindfully can bring real solace and comfort to troubled minds, anchoring each day with meaning and purpose; and so many of us need a little of that right now, don’t you think?

IT’S ALL ABOUT COLLECTIVE CARE

If COVID has taught us anything, it’s that self care isn’t possible without adopting an attitude of collective care, too. While we, of course, all need to take responsibility for our own well being, it’s essential we take care of each other, too, with compassion and love. 

Collective or community care can take many forms, from volunteering to participating in peaceful protests for the greater good, or perhaps simply being a better neighbour and offering an ear to those less fortunate. 

Yep, it can be something as simple as sending a text to a friend who you know needs to talk and making yourself available for others who need support. It’s all about interpersonal acts of kindness, being there for people without them having to take the first step. 

MAKE MEMORIES

Do you remember what happened this time last Thursday, two weeks ago? Or on the final Tuesday of last month? Didn’t think so. For us, part of self care is trying to make memories – unique and fulfilling ones – as often as possible. Unfortunately, the humdrum of everyday life often outweighs those memory making moments. While of course many good memories are made without conscious effort, if you don’t go out of your way and put yourself outside your comfort zone, then you may look back and regret playing it so safe.

Set aside time to make memories; doing so is one of the greatest acts of self care you can commit, we think. Watch a sunset, learn a new recipe, explore an unfamiliar part of your town…it needn’t cost a fortune in time or money, just be fresh and new. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

While self care looks different for everyone, these are some shared components which we think will help everyone approach the rest of 2020 with a little more confidence and curiosity. Good luck!

5 CHECKS TO DO WHEN BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME

Editorial Team
-
0
5 CHECKS TO DO WHEN BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME

So you have a mortgage. Congratulations! Buying your first home is an exciting time, whether you’re purchasing with your partner, friends or as a solo (ad)venture. For many, your first home is the chance to make your dreams come true and finally have a bit of freedom. However, it can also be quite an overwhelming time in your life, with so much advice and recommendations thrown at you from others who have already purchased a house before.

Luckily, we’re on hand to simplify the process for you by creating this list of five checks to do when buying your first home. So, to take out the stress, ensure that your first home is going to be safe and help you know exactly what you are getting yourself in for, all without any extra hidden costs further down the line, read on.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

If the property that you’re viewing doesn’t already have one, apply for an EICR from Trade Facilities Services, who will provide a satisfactory or unsatisfactory report conclusion. They have electricians on hand to complete any necessary repairs and changes to the property’s electrics.

An Electrical Installation Condition Report or EICR Certificate will show you how safe the property already is, and whether or not you’ll need to carry out further electrical work. If the latter is the case, you could negotiate a price reduction on the house to cover the costs that you’ll spend on hiring out an electrician to repair and secure the electrical fittings at a later date. 

TEST THE PLUMBING

The plumbing system in a property is one of the most important functions for a house that is going to be lived in, so ensuring that these work from the initial visit will help you to plan how you spend your money on renovation work for the house. Just as you can negotiate a price reduction if the house has a low electrical safety rating, you can also try to get some money off the overall property price so that you can justify spending extra money later on when fixing the plumbing – which, let’s face it, could be a big job! 

CHECK WINDOWS & DOORS

Not only do you need to know if your property has double glazed windows to understand how energy efficient your property will be, and how hot or cold it will feel in winter, but knowing the state of the windows and doors is important for many house insurance policies.

Home insurance providers will charge more money to cover your house if the property lacks secure windows and doors with locks. It makes sense, as a less secure property is going to be more susceptible to burglaries, and therefore more likely that an insurance claim will be filed. Having windows and doors in good condition, as well as being insulated, also means that the house is better at keeping in heat which is particularly good for the environment, your wallet and your body in winter!

RESEARCH THE BOILER

It may seem trivial, but finding out the model, year and service history of the property’s boiler will give you a wealth of knowledge as to what to expect from your heating and water temperature. A combi boiler will heat water up and provide instant heat immediately, whereas a boiler linked to a hot water tank will mean that the heating will take a little longer to get fired up.

Finding out about your boiler will also provide you with an insight into when you are next going to have to fork out money for a new one; be aware that they are extremely expensive and are something that you will need to budget for. It’s certainly not a cost that you want to incur immediately after moving into a new property!

More importantly, knowing that the boiler is fully functioning and safe is important since a broken boiler can release harmful CO2 emissions, which is why they should be checked annually.

SNIFF OUT THE DAMP

Finally, checking for damp in the property will indicate how water-proof, safe and structurally sound the building is. You can tell that there is dampness in a house if it smells musty, there is peeling wallpaper, or there are areas of condensation. Damp isn’t all bad, as it could just indicate that the room is poorly ventilated which can be easily solved. However, a dripping ceiling causing the damp in a bedroom could be related to a leaky roof, which will set you back thousands of pounds. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Although this list is longer than you might have hoped, these five checks when buying your first home could save you a whole host of trouble, money and time later in life. It’s much better to deal with the hassle beforehand, rather than after purchasing the house because it is much harder to avoid a problematic property when you have already moved in!

5 TIPS FOR LIVING WITH OLDER RELATIVES

Editorial Team
-
0
5 TIPS FOR LIVING WITH OLDER RELATIVES

Ideal for those planning on intergenerational living. 

Domestic life in 2020 is a very different beast to the years that preceded it. And increasingly, for reasons of financial necessity or to provide care and support, intergenerational living is becoming more and more common. Indeed, with many young people unable to afford a home and the elderly at risk of isolation, more families who are fortunate enough to have a large home are deciding to live together. 

Let’s face it; our health and happiness during such topsy turvy times should be the priority. Though mutual support is a hugely beneficial product of family moving back in together, there are also potential pitfalls to the young and old cohabiting which can cause tension. To turn this situation into a positive, here are 5 tips for living with older relatives, IDEAL for those planning on intergenerational living. 

MAKE THE HOME ACCESSIBLE 

There are some adjustments you’ll need to make to the domestic space to make life as easy as possible for everyone involved, enabling elderly residents to move more freely and not be as reliant on younger ones for assistance in mobility. 

Manoeuvring around the home can become difficult as we age, but there are some ergonomic features you can install to make life easier. Place grab handles and rails around the home – installed in bathrooms, toilets, showers and anywhere where slipping might occur. Stairs can also become more of an obstacle, so installing both stairlifts and portable ramps for wheelchairs mean trips upflight won’t be obstructive. No one wants to be confined to the ground floor of their home alone, after all. 

Do more. As the guys at keepmovingcare.com, who stock home accessibility gadgets galore, tell us, you can make the home more accessible via a series of more minor adjustments, too. Raise the height of electrical sockets to mitigate the need for those less flexible to be bending down. Add a small toilet downstairs so when nature calls, it’s easier to answer.

Declutter where you can, too; debris, mess and disorder represent trip hazards. Ensure surfaces below foot are slip-resistant, and windows are easily accessible and don’t require any force above 2kg (the recommended, manageable amount).

Read: How to adapt your home to make it more accessible

TECH THAT CAN HELP

You can’t be at home 24/7 to look after your elderly family member; each resident has a life to lead and they shouldn’t feel guilty about leading it. What’s more, even if precautions are taken to make your home more accessible, the occasional mishap, fall, and need for assistance are inevitable. Fixing up your relative with a personal alarm will notify you quickly of any problems your elderly relatives may be experiencing should you not be in the same room. 

Look to other tech solutions that may help, too. Smart technology and voice controlled devices such as smart blinds, plugs, light bulbs and thermostats can allow elderly family members to control various features within their home without putting them at risk. These devices have a huge range of functions, from setting reminders to take medication to turning on the TV when a favourite program is due to start. Harness the power of tech!

SET BOUNDARIES

Intergenerational living doesn’t mean everyone is expected to live together in hippy-commune-like harmony, with shared resources, spaces and nothing off the table. Quite the opposite, in fact. You can still enjoy plenty of quality time together, and your elderly relative’s golden years can still carry great meaning, but if a sense of accord and balance is to be achieved – preserving everyone’s independence – you need to set boundaries in and around the domestic space. 

Organise a family meeting where such expectations can be discussed; will you be eating together every night? How will the chores be shared? Will control of the TV remote need a rota? At what time in the evening is it still acceptable to request a cuppa? A happy, cohesive domestic life may well be determined by such minutiae.   

BE REALISTIC

To avoid headaches and preserve stability on all sides, it’s crucial to be realistic about how much support your elderly family member require, especially if they require palliative care. If you’re not available to look after your loved one or give them the complete, undivided attention they might need, consider hiring a helper. 

This isn’t an admission of defeat, but rather a pragmatic, practical step forward. This helper may come to your home and spend time with elderly loved ones when you are not available, or act as a live-in care assistant who will do, well, just that; live with your elderly relative and provide care. Often times, you won’t realise just how much you needed them until you’ve welcomed a carer into your home; the difference such help can make to family life can feel like a huge weight has been lifted. And we all want to feel that, right? 

BE PATIENT & POSITIVE

As people age, things can get mixed up, forgotten or misplaced due to poor memory, worsening eyesight or distraction. Living with an elderly family member can bring up tensions you didn’t realise were lurking when you lived apart.  

Do your best to keep things cordial, even harmonious. Frame it as an enriching time for you and your family, to share help, wisdom and quality time together. Indeed, the benefits of cross-generational mixing have been well documented. A recent review by Ageing Equal concluded that being in such a situation can ‘’promote mutual understanding, break down stereotypes, (and) reduce prejudice and anxiety’’. 

In such turbulent times, when you and your family may feel like you’ve lost some of your own independence, it’s vital to remember this, and be patient and positive. Needless to say, there are pros and cons you’ll want to consider before deciding to cohabitate with senior parents, in-laws, or other ageing relatives.

Though it’s not here yet, it never hurts to be prepared. Check out our article on 6 IDEAL ways to help the elderly this winter for more useful tips!

MOTs & DRIVING: 6 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Editorial Team
-
0
MOTs & DRIVING: 6 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

Most of us couldn’t imagine our lives without cars. Depending on where you live, they might be the only viable option of getting from point A to B. But it’s not just about the functional – your vehicle gives you freedom, and can be a space of privacy and retreat when you need some ‘me’ time. Yep, vehicles are valuable things, indeed.

However, we shouldn’t forget that their complexity means that, unfortunately, a lot of things can go wrong, and often, you might not even notice that something is malfunctioning until it’s too late.

If we take into consideration the speeds that our vehicles can reach without much effort, and that you’re essentially in charge of a lethal weapon every time you get behind the wheel, no wonder that there are regular tests that your car has to pass. If you live in the United Kingdom and have ever wondered if it’s legal to drive without an MOT and other pressing questions on the subject, then read on; here are 6 things you need to know about MOTs and driving.

WHAT IS AN MOT?

The MOT (Ministry of Transportation) test is nothing new – its first version was introduced in 1960, though initially, it wasn’t as extensive as it is now. However, as vehicles became more advanced, these routine checks focused on an ever larger number of systems.

In Great Britain, vehicles that are older than three years must pass the test every year. Cars that are used only on small islands are exempted from this routine check; Jura, Sark, we’re looking at you. Also, tractors and vehicles manufactured before 1960 are also exempted from MOT.

However, in Northern Ireland, the regulations about MOT are somewhat different. Vehicles that are not over 3, but over 4 years old, require an MOT test if their owners intend to use them. On the other hand, the law in Northern Ireland doesn’t grant exceptions on the basis of where the vehicles are used. 

IS IT LEGAL TO DRIVE WITHOUT AN MOT?

The short answer is no; you are not allowed to drive your vehicle if it hasn’t passed an MOT test – if you want to avoid potentially breaking the law then you should read more on driving without one and the possible punishments; you can click here to do so. 

These laws are in place because a failure to pass the test indicates that your vehicle could potentially be dangerous to you or other drivers on the road. However, there are some exceptions to this rule….

DRIVING WITHOUT YOUR MOT 

There are more than 20,000 places all around the United Kingdom, where drivers can undertake an MOT test. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, limiting contact with other people is currently the top priority, and as such, due to past regulations, all class 4 vehicles that had certificates valid at least until the 30th of March will be allowed on the road for the next 6 months.

In less unusual circumstances, driving on the roads after your car has failed an MOT test would be permissible if you had undertaken the test less than a year after the previous one, meaning that one full year hasn’t yet passed. 

However, it only applies if the routine check hasn’t revealed that there are major issues with your vehicle that are serious enough for your vehicle to be called unroadworthy. Still with us?

One final scenario in which you would be allowed to drive your car without a valid MOT certificate is if you are driving to a place where such a test would take place. However, you would have to book your appointment first, so that if you were stopped by the police while on the way, you would be able to present proof. 

FEAR THE FINES 

Otherwise, you might be in for trouble or, to be more specific, liable to a fine of up to £1,000. To avoid wasting such a significant amount of money, we recommend setting up an appointment long before your certificate’s expiry date. As we have previously mentioned, there are more than 20,000 points in the UK where you could pass such tests, so the distance shouldn’t be a problem. 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

What about the costs? Although MOT tests are not free, you’ll be pleased to hear that their cost isn’t particularly high, either. Owners of motorcycles should be prepared to pay up to £29.95, whereas car owners should expect a fee of up to £54.85. Larger vehicles are only a little more inexpensive; in the majority of cases, they remain below £60.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CAR FAILS? 

You’ll need to address any issues on your VT30 ‘Refusal of an MOT Test’ certificate. Depending on why your MOT failed, your test centre will let you know the options for retesting.

According to our friends at AutoAdvisor, some of the ‘Top MOT Failures‘ include; a blown light bulb, faulty windscreen wipers, high exhaust emissions, incorrect tyre tread depth and bad brakes. As such, it’s important to get these checked and make the necessary repairs ahead of your test.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Vehicles in the United Kingdom need to pass their MOT each year; it serves as an indicator that they are well-suited for the road and that they don’t pose any danger to their drivers but also to others. 

In 2020, the situation is different, as due to the regulations passed as a consequence of COVID-pandemic, some of these vehicles may not need to pass an MOT test until October. However, in any other case, experts recommend that all drivers to check their vehicles, or they might have to pay hefty fines or worse still, risk potentially dangerous accidents. 

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS OF SMALL APARTMENT DECOR

Vicky Clifford Sanghad
-
0
THE 10 COMMANDMENTS OF SMALL APARTMENT DECOR

According to IDEAL Magazine.

Your home is your castle. And even if it doesn’t quite have the generous space (or ancient battlements) of a fortress, it doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t treat it like one. Now, more than ever, we’re reliant on our homes to bring us a sense of comfort, stability, reassurance and safety. And whether you hang your hat in a 5 bed detached beauty in the shires or a tiny urban studio apartment, you deserve the feeling of welcome and safety that a ‘home’ brings. 

Of course, every living space presents its own set of challenges. And if you have a finite amount of space to make your own, this can feel obstructive to your decorative inclinations. After all, small spaces can very easily become cluttered, busy and discordant in their decor if you don’t box clever. This can drive you to distraction when working from home or, worse, prove surprisingly detrimental to your mental health and your ability to relax in your living space. 

Fortunately, we have your back, your front, your centre and your sides. Here are the 10 commandments of small apartment decor, according to IDEAL Magazine.

THOU SHALT NOT OVERDO IT WITH BOLD COLOURS

Some people have an innately minimalist sense of decor. Others believe that you should either go big or go home. If you fall into the latter category, you may feel tempted to paint your apartment walls in bright, bold and vivid colours in order to give your space a vibrancy and energy that belies its size. 

But believe it or not, bold colours in a small space can make it very difficult to relax and can even impinge on relaxation and concentration, equally. That’s not to say you shouldn’t incorporate bold colours into your decor; just use them sparingly and with a lightness of touch via a few statement pieces.  

THOU SHALT MAKE THE MOST OF THY NATURAL LIGHT

Whether you’re buying a flat to settle down in, renting for the short term or buying an overseas apartment as an investment property, you’ll want to showcase the beauty of your space in the best possible light. And the best possible light is almost always the most natural one. It makes your space feel more spacious, saves on your energy bills and helps you feel lighter and happier there, too. Don’t forget to use mirrors to enhance, reflect and amplify the powers of natural light. 

THOU SHALT INVEST IN CLEVER STORAGE

Your belongings can quickly become clutter when you leave them out on display a little too long. But at the same time, you don’t want to pile boxes on top of boxes in your diminutive living space. So, invest in clever storage options like space saving kitchen cupboard racks, storage beds or a pouffe that doubles as an ottoman, and embrace the space to swing the odd cat or two. Only idiomatically, of course; we wouldn’t want to have to call the RSPCA on you.

THOU SHALT USE BOXES AND BASKETS TO BRING ORDER TO THY STORAGE SPACE

Speaking of storage, shelves can be a great way to make the most of your vertical space and prevent your apartment from becoming too cluttered. However, leaving your belongings on display can be jarring, even when they’re stacked neatly on a shelf. Consider using boxes and baskets to bring uniformity and order to your storage, Marie Kondo style!  

THOU SHALT NOT PILE THY BELONGINGS TO EYE LEVEL

By all means, make the most of your vertical space for storage. But that doesn’t mean you should keep all your belongings at eye level. Mixing it up with a few lower shelves, footlockers and the like can give you more bare wall at eye level, making your apartment look and feel more spacious.

THOU SHALT MAKE THE MOST OF THY ENTRYWAY

Tired of never being able to find your keys? Sick of seeing your partner’s coat draped over the sofa? Then do something about it and make the most of your entryway by adding a wall mounted shelf with pegs to act as a drop zone. Storing your keys, hats and jackets here can prevent them from encroaching on your living and working space. Every little helps!

THOU SHALT NOT LET THY SPACE BE DOMINATED BY TECH

We get it; you’re very proud of your expensive new iPad Pro, your widescreen TV and your selection of games consoles. We would be, too. 

But the combination of plastic, glass and tangled, dangling wires does little for our sense of calm and serenity when our devices are not in use. Designate storage solutions for your tech and ensure that you use the right cable tidying solutions to prevent your space from becoming too visually busy and chaotic. 

THOU SHALT WALL MOUNT THY TV

Speaking of tech, film lovers may want a generously sized TV to give themselves a cinematic experience in the comfort of their own home. And while that’s absolutely fine and dandy, a big TV can easily dominate a small room, making things feel cramped and, well, a touch tacky in the wrong hands. 

You may find that wall mounting your TV (do make sure your wall can bear the weight) gives you much more floor space to play with because you don’t need a console table or media unit to support it.  

THOU SHALT USE RUGS TO THY ADVANTAGE

When you have a small space, compartmentalisation can become a problem. But when you need to designate space for eating, sleeping, working and relaxing, this compartmentalisation is essential. For this reason, we recommend using rugs to your advantage. They are great for creating barriers and a sense of division between spaces with assigned purposes, even if there are no walls to separate the space. 

THOU SHALT NOT HANG WALL ART IN EXCESS

We get it, you want to make your mark on your living space. Especially if it’s rented, a personal touch is so important to make you feel at ‘home’, rather than just kipping in a stranger’s house. 

You want to ensure that your home reflects your personality, while also giving yourself and guests something beautiful to look at. But when it comes to wall art, always remember that less is more. As much as you may fall in love with a number of pieces, they can easily become discordant and visually jarring when displayed in close proximity to one another. 

Each piece needs space in which to breathe. So try to invest only in just one or two carefully chosen aesthetic pieces for your home so that they get the chance to draw the eye and make the right statement about you and your home.

AUTUMN LAWN CARE: 5 TIPS ON HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR LAWN

Editorial Team
-
0
AUTUMN LAWN CARE: 5 TIPS ON HOW TO MAINTAIN YOUR LAWN

Ideal for promoting lush green lawn to luxuriate in next year.

It’s official. The leaves are starting to fall and summer is over. Our thoughts turn to indoor living and making our homes warm and cosy for the coming winter months.

The temptation can be strong once the sun has set on summer to abandon your garden until it reemerges for spring. You’ll be spending less time there, and things will be getting messy with all the fallen leaves, so why not simply shut your eyes and ignore it?

However, September to October should actually be a busy month in the garden. Indeed, these months represent a great time to sow new seeds and keep things looking lush and nurtured. It’s also the ideal time to restore your lawn and give it a new lease of life post-summer.

After summer heatwaves, dry periods, increased footfall during the lockdown and more recently long periods of wetter weather, our lawns have been through it all. As a result, they’re likely to be compact, dry in patches and overall, looking rather dishevelled. 

By giving your lawn the TLC it requires at this time of year, it will be far better equipped to survive the cold winter. With this in mind, here’s 5 tips on how to maintain your lawn this autumn. 

FALLEN LEAVES

While fallen leaves may look and feel autumnal if left to sit on the surface of your grass, they can wreak havoc for the health of your lawn. Piles of leaves on your lawn will keep your grass in the shade, preventing natural sunlight from being absorbed and leaving your grass at risk of developing fungal diseases or moss infestations. 

The leaf blowing experts at thebestleafblowers.com tell us “to give your lawn access to all the sun and air it needs, rake up or use a leaf blower to remove fallen leaves and keep your lawn’s surface clear throughout autumn.

Rather than shoving the leaves straight in your green bin, you can use them to start your own compost heap. It takes time and dedication for your compost to decompose over time, but get it right and you will have plenty of nutritious compost to use the following year to fertilise your plants and flower beds”.

NOURISH & FEED 

Not only do lawn treatments improve the look and feel of your grass, but they improve the health and structure of your soil over time. To revitalise your lawn pre-winter, it’s important to give it some extra nourishment. Though you can buy lawn feed and fertilisers at your local garden centre, it might represent better value for money to book in for professional lawn treatments so they can use products and techniques that are suited to your unique lawn and the time of year.

As an example, Greensleeves are lawn treatment experts, offering annual treatments to keep lawns healthy and thriving all year round. You can pay a monthly fee and in return, have their lawn care services at hand and rest easy knowing your lawn will be effectively treated four times a year. What’s more, you can benefit from their free resource offering plenty of year-round lawn care tips. 

INSECTS AND DISEASES 

Your lawn will be at risk of a wide variety of fungal issues and pests in the autumn time such as red thread, leatherjackets and chafer grubs, all of which can spread quickly and be detrimental to the health of your lawn if not diagnosed. 

Simply keep an eye out for any discoloured patches of grass to catch these issues and combat them in their early stages. Prevention is preferable to cure, here.

MOSS AND THATCH 

Over time, layers of thatch and debris will naturally build-up close to the soil under your lawn. If you leave thatch to build up for too long, it can prevent your lawn from absorbing water and nutrients. 

Autumn is the ideal time to scarify your lawn and get rid of any thatch. You can try this yourself using a rake or book in with a professional, who will use a scarification device to remove layers of thatch and relieve any compaction allowing plenty of water and fertiliser to reach and drain through your soil. 

AERATION

Aeration is another way to help relieve your lawn after a dry summer and give it the best chance at taking in nutrients. It involves spiking the surface of your lawn either using a rake or a dedicated aerator to allow air, nutrients and water to flow freely among your soil. Aeration is the ideal treatment to prepare your lawn for potential extreme weather conditions, which we are prone to when it comes to UK winter. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

Autumn is the ideal time to prime your lawn. Moreover, your autumn garden itself still has plenty to give. Install an outdoor heater or chiminea wood burner and make it a pleasant space to luxuriate in. With that in mind, read on for our 5 IDEAL ways to make the most out of your garden in autumn.

1...236237238...394Page 237 of 394

Company

WHO we are
SAY HELLO
ADVERTISING

Read More

Ideal
Travel
Food & Drink
Lifestyle & Wellbeing

Social

We’re an online destination, IDEAL for your daily dose of all things lifestyle, from travel to wellbeing and everything in between.

Copyright © 2026 IDEAL Magazine